What’s Up, Wake

Join us as we dive deep into the story of Tamasha Modern Indian, Raleigh's hottest dining destination, with Mike Kathrani and Tina Vora, the husband-and-wife team behind this celebrated restaurant. Discover how their journey from hair salons to hospitality led to creating an award-winning dining experience, complete with stunning design and a menu curated by Executive Chef Bhavin Chhatwani, a James Beard Award semifinalist. Learn about their inspirations, the challenges they've faced, and their ambitious vision for the future of Tamasha.

00:00 Date Night at the Hottest Restaurant in Town

01:28 Meet the Visionary Owners of Tamasha

04:25 Designing a Grand Performance

08:34 Chef Bhavin's Culinary Journey

14:43 Elevating Indian Cuisine

18:54 Curating Unique Indian Dishes

20:14 Inspiration Behind the Menu

21:17 Incorporating Indian Heritage

22:59 Achieving Culinary Recognition

26:37 Vision and Ambitions for Tamasha

28:31 Lightning Round: Fun Questions

32:27 Conclusion and Social Media

In this episode of What's Up, Wake, Melissa explores the fascinating world of wine with Matt Weiss, a distinguished sommelier and creator of The Wine Centric Show. Matt shares his journey from studying at the American Sommelier Association in New York to teaching and becoming a certified sommelier. He discusses the benefits of boxed wine, offers tips for finding great wines at local shops, and debunks myths about North Carolina wines. The conversation also touches on wine pairings, the best regions for wine, and upcoming events like BBQ & Bubbly. This episode is packed with insights for wine enthusiasts and novices alike, making wine approachable and enjoyable for everyone.

00:00 Wine Etiquette: Ice Cubes and Boxed Wine

00:59 Meet the Expert: Matt Weiss

02:57 Matt's Journey to Becoming a Sommelier

06:13 From New York to North Carolina

07:28 Navigating Wine Shops: Tips and Tricks

09:42 Wine Preferences and Pairings

11:28 The Historical and Cultural Significance of Wine

13:43 Making Wine Approachable

15:49 Exploring North Carolina Wines

16:10 The Sweetness of Muscadine Grapes

16:39 Diverse Grape Varieties in North Carolina

18:49 Local Wine Shops and Building Rapport

19:39 Affordable Wine Recommendations

21:49 BBQ & Bubbly Event

24:47 Lightning Round: Wine Preferences and Tips

28:15 Conclusion and Event Details

Join us for an engaging episode as we sit down with Don Schwenneker, also known as "Big Weather," Chief Meteorologist for ABC11 Eyewitness News. In this interview, Don shares his journey from a sports photographer in Iowa to a trusted weather forecaster in Raleigh, North Carolina. He delves into the importance of connecting with the audience, staying calm during severe weather events, and technological advancements in meteorology. Don also talks about balancing his career with going back to school, the challenges of forecasting in a region with diverse weather patterns, and being a relatable personality on TV. Don't miss this inspiring and insightful conversation!

00:00 The Challenges of Aging and Control

01:01 Introducing: Don Schwenneker, AKA Big Weather

01:40 A Warm Welcome and Local News Loyalty

03:03 Journey to Meteorology: From Iowa to TV

06:24 Settling in Raleigh and Family Life

09:12 Returning to School: A Lifelong Dream

12:53 Award Recognition and Personality in Broadcasting

15:37 The Importance of Trust in Weather Forecasting

18:55 Technological Advances in Meteorology

22:30 Advice for Aspiring Meteorologists

24:04 Quick-Fire Round: Personal Insights and Fun Facts

26:48 Conclusion and Social Media Shoutout

Join us as we engage with Simone and Noelle, the dynamic duo of sisters behind the beloved Mediterranean restaurant Sassool. They share insights into their journey from growing up in the family restaurant business to managing two successful locations today. Discover the secrets behind their award-winning menu, the essence of Lebanese hospitality, and their unique event space, FigMINT Farms. Whether it's embracing their cultural roots, innovating with new recipes, or navigating the challenges of running a family business, the sisters offer a deep look into their culinary world and the passion that drives them. Stay tuned till the end for a unique lightning round of fun questions!

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:43 Clarifying Names and Background

02:45 Podcast Format and Guest Introduction

05:34 The Story Behind the Restaurant

07:24 Working with Family

12:05 Secrets to Restaurant Success

14:57 Menu Development and Social Media

18:02 FigMINT Farms: A New Venture

19:48 Mint Harvesting and Family Gatherings

20:57 Creating a Dinner Experience in the Woods

22:22 Future Plans for FigMINT Farms

24:48 Incorporating Lebanese Culture in Business

28:56 The Annual Hummus Mix-Off

31:31 Rapid-Fire Questions and Personal Favorites

35:49 Social Media and Locations

In this episode, we explore the enchanting world of Garden Supply Company, a premier garden center and 2025 Cary Magazine Maggy Award winner. Join Melissa and owner Keith Ramsey as they talk about the center's history, Keith's passion for gardening, and the unique appeal of garden centers. Keith shares insights into his journey from the landscape business to owning a garden center, his experiences with beekeeping, and the importance of native plants. Learn about the best plants for pollinators, vegetable gardening tips, and Keith's hobbies, like oyster farming and wildlife management. Dive into this fascinating conversation filled with useful gardening advice and inspiring personal stories.

00:00 Visualizing the Perfect Garden Oasis

01:06 Introduction to Garden Supply Company

01:20 Meet the Owner: Keith Ramsey

01:34 The Impact of Winter on Business

02:20 The Journey to Owning a Garden Center

06:14 The Fascination with Beekeeping

10:05 The Importance of Pollinating Plants

13:11 The Role of Native Plants in Ecosystems

16:18 Excitement for Vegetable Gardening

16:41 Optimal Planting Dates and Tips

20:09 Best Vegetables for North Carolina

21:34 Bird-Watching and Wildlife Management

23:22 Quickfire Round: Favorite Trees and Herbs

27:06 Hobbies Beyond Gardening

30:19 Conclusion and Social Media

In this episode, we chat with Jennifer Martin, executive director of Shop Local Raleigh, about her journey from Florida to Raleigh and her mission to support local businesses. Jennifer discusses how she and her team partner with various local enterprises — from restaurants and boutiques to media companies and health spas — to help them thrive. She highlights the importance of shopping local for the community and economy and shares insights on how Shop Local Raleigh aids businesses in marketing, strategy, and networking. Additionally, Jennifer touches on major events organized by Shop Local Raleigh, like Brewgaloo and Falling for Local, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the area. Join us to learn more about the vibrant local business scene in Raleigh and the efforts to promote and sustain it.

00:00 Introduction to Local Business Champion

01:29 Jennifer Martin's Journey to Raleigh

03:55 The Importance of Shopping Local

09:36 Supporting Local Businesses: Challenges and Strategies

12:53 Future of Raleigh's Business Landscape

19:42 Starting a Business in Raleigh

22:10 Shop Local Raleigh's Major Events

25:28 Craft Beer Delivery Challenges and Industry Trends

26:36 Expanding the Festival Footprint

27:38 Creating Family-Friendly Events

29:13 Planning Massive Events

32:04 Rain or Shine: Event Resilience

33:24 Local Favorites and Personal Preferences

37:45 Supporting Local Businesses

40:03 Finding Shop Local Raleigh Online

In this week's episode of What's Up, Wake, we dive deep into the life of double platinum songwriter and local musician Jason Adamo. Jason shares his captivating journey from his beginnings in Blacksburg, Virginia, through his musical influences, to becoming a renowned artist living and performing in Raleigh, NC. We discuss his unexpected discovery of new music genres, his songwriting process, and his experience of finding a living kidney donor. Don't miss his heartfelt performance of "Beautiful Believer" and his insights on navigating the music industry. Follow his inspiring story and learn valuable advice for aspiring musicians.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

01:13 Meet Jason Adamo: The Local Music Sensation

01:29 Jason's Musical Roots and Family Influence

04:12 Discovering Rock and Roll

06:15 The Journey to Double Platinum

12:23 Navigating the Music Business

17:14 Embracing New Technology

18:09 A Life-Saving Kidney Donation

19:43 A Neighbor's Unexpected Gift

20:48 A Setback and Way Forward

21:13 The Six-Surgery Chain

22:57 Jenna's Wedding and Matchmaking

23:18 Becoming a Living Donor

24:05 Charity Concerts and Community Support

24:54 Lightning Round Questions

29:39 Performing and Family Life

30:28 Closing and Final Performance

Join Melissa as she speaks with Erin McKnight and Cass Santander about the rebuilding efforts in Asheville, North Carolina, following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene. The episode delves into the resilience and collaborative spirit of the community, highlighting the role of artists and local businesses in the recovery. Get insights into the state of Asheville six months after the hurricane, learn about ongoing support efforts, and discover how you can help by visiting and supporting the local economy.

00:00 Introduction to North Carolina's Fall Colors

00:44 Impact of Hurricane Helene

01:24 Community Response and Recovery

01:44 Interview with Erin McKnight and Cass Santander

02:14 Current State of Asheville

03:18 Rebuilding the River Arts District

04:54 Challenges and Resilience

15:13 Economic Impact and Recovery Efforts

23:20 Encouraging Tourism and Support

26:51 Conclusion and Call to Action

In today's episode, we sit down with Erica DeLong, a prominent voice on Raleigh's G105 radio station and a regular contributor to local magazines. Erica shares her inspiring journey from a college sophomore to a wife and mother, all while building a successful radio career. Get an insider view of Erica's beginnings in radio, her experiences with famous personalities, and how she balances her professional life with family. Plus, learn about her impact on local and international communities through various charitable works. This chat promises laughter, deep insights, and a closer look at one of Raleigh's most beloved radio personalities.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Special Guest

01:09 Erica DeLong's Journey into Radio

03:17 Balancing Passion and Career

04:53 Red Carpet Experiences

06:27 Staying Local in a National Industry

10:08 Challenges and Advice for Women in Radio

12:24 Evolution from Shock Jock Radio

15:17 Personal Life and Recharging

17:41 Ideal Family Day

18:07 Philippines Prison Reform Trip

19:42 Faith and Personal Growth

20:59 Local Charities and Giving Back

22:30 Lightning Round: North Carolina Edition

25:42 Celebrity Encounters

27:02 Dream Interviews and Local Favorites

29:24 Where to Follow and Listen

30:23 Conclusion and Farewell

In the second episode of What's Up Wake, we sit down with the winners of the Wake Living Readers' Choice Award for Best Local Podcast - Joe Ovies and Joe Giglio from the Ovies and Giglio podcast. Join us as we delve into their journey from radio to podcasting, the intricacies of the media business, and their thoughts on NC State sports. Discover how they pivoted their careers, the importance of audience loyalty, and their future aspirations in the evolving world of sports media. Whether you're a sports fanatic or someone interested in the behind-the-scenes of podcasting, this episode has something for you. Plus, don't miss the 'Dumb It Down' segment, where complex sports terms are broken down into layman's terms.

00:00 Introduction to What's Up Wake

01:19 Meet the Podcasting Duo: Joe Ovies and Joe Gilgio

02:50 Navigating Career Changes: From Radio to Podcasting

04:24 Building a New Audience and Embracing Change

09:48 The Unique Sports Culture of North Carolina

12:12 Journey into Sports Media: Ovies and Giglio's Beginnings

19:29 Radio vs. Podcast: The Business Shift

20:58 Challenges of Radio Interviews

21:39 The Reset Debate

22:16 Active vs. Passive Listening

24:53 The NIL and Transfer Portal Explained

27:58 NC State's Hangover Year

32:09 OG Lightning Round