This is Raleigh Podcast
This is Raleigh Podcast is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace, Aussie global travelers, who now call Raleigh, North Caroline home. After living in 5 countries, traveling to over 50, and, due to their travel blogging success, could choose to live anywhere in the world, they chose Raleigh as their permanent family home. Why Raleigh? This podcast dives deep into that why - sharing the vibrant spirit of this community and the stories of the people that make its heart and soul. Be prepared for stories, interviews with locals and business owners, ideas for discovering or re-discovering the magic of this city (think eat, play, stay), and ideas for getaways and vacations beyond the Beltline.
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EP 59: Raleigh Real Estate Market Update (May 2024)
05/15/2024
EP 59: Raleigh Real Estate Market Update (May 2024)
In this episode we chat about the current Raleigh real estate market with our realtor partner, Chuck Belden, a local full-service and client-centered realtor. Chuck shares valuable insights into the current state of the Raleigh market for the first quarter and looking ahead, including: Is it a buyers or sellers market? Current inventory for sale (supply & demand) Are prices rising, stabilizing, or declining? Average time on market? Current average home price in Raleigh Current interest rates and their impact What factors are driving the Raleigh real estate market right now? Good value neighborhoods Advice for buyers and sellers Due dilligence fee trends Emerging trends And much more! RESOURCES: All episodes:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/31311122
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EP 58: Influencer Marketing (14 years of Tips & Lessons)
04/17/2024
EP 58: Influencer Marketing (14 years of Tips & Lessons)
In this episode we share 14 years of tips and lessons as "Influencers" and content creators. We have partnered with some of the biggest brands in the world such as American Express, Qantas, Canon, Ford, and destinations like Visit California, Visit Florida, and Tourism Singapore. Our experience is spread over several platformas such as blogging, Facebook, Instagram and podcasting. If you're a brand looking to hire influencers, we have helpful insights for you. And if you're an influencer looking to build a business, we have been there and done that and have many tips to share! RESOURCES:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/30873578
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EP 57: Biltmore Estate & London (travel tips)
04/10/2024
EP 57: Biltmore Estate & London (travel tips)
We love to travel and sharing our tips. After visiting 50+ countries and living in 5 countries, we have lots to share from domestic getaways from Raleigh, to internatinal trips. In this episode we are chatting about one local and one international destination; Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, and London in the UK! What to see, do, eat and where to stay in each destination, how to get there, getting around tips and much more! RESOURCES: Biltmore Estate: London:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/30765608
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EP 56: Jessica Holt from Visit Raleigh
04/02/2024
EP 56: Jessica Holt from Visit Raleigh
We love getting local insights about Raleigh, and it would be hard to find someone with their finger on the pulse of what's happening in Raleigh more than Jessica Holt, the Public Relations and International Tourism Manager at Visit Raleigh. In this episode we ask Jess about what she thinks sets Raleigh apart from other cities as a tourist destination, how has Raleigh's tourism landscape evolved over the years what she sees for its future, her must-visit attractions, places to eat and drink, her favorite festivals, what advice she would you give to someone planning their first trip to Raleigh, and much more! RESOURCES:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/30647438
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EP 55 - Spring Time in Raleigh
03/22/2024
EP 55 - Spring Time in Raleigh
Spring is one of our favorite times to get outdoors and enjoy the vibrant Raleigh lifestyle. The weather is warming up, the gardens are blooming, and there are fun festivals & events. In this episode we talk about all the fun things to do in Raleigh during Spring, inlcuding best gardens, events, places to eat outside, trails and much more! RESOURCES:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/30501198
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EP 54: Pet-Friendly Raleigh
03/13/2024
EP 54: Pet-Friendly Raleigh
We are recent pet owners, two cats, and we know how much you guys in America love your pets. I think we are the only people in Raleigh without a dog, lol. In this episode we talk about pet-friendly businesses in Raleigh including restaurants, breweries, dog parks and trails. And we also discuss adaption centers, pet supply stores, vet care, and much more! RESOURCES: of Wake County (use code: YTRAVEL25 for a 25% discount) See all podcast episodes .
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/30358098
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EP 53: Spring Break Getaways from Raleigh
03/08/2024
EP 53: Spring Break Getaways from Raleigh
Spring Break a little early this year, mid - end of March with Easter Sunday being on March 31. In this episode we share Spring break getaway ideas from Raleigh that are easy to get to by driving. Plus, some fun international destinations that have direct flights! If you're looking for Spring Break tips and inspiration, listen in get ready to pack your car or dust off your passport! Here is our spring break getaway from Raleigh guide with more information: RESOURCES:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/30289728
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EP 52: Raleigh Bucket List for 2024
02/27/2024
EP 52: Raleigh Bucket List for 2024
Looking to explore Raleigh as a local in 2024? Here are our suggestions for the best things to do in Raleigh including the outdoors, food, breweries & bars, family fun, festivals, sports, and neighborhoods.
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EP 51: The BEST Trails in Raleigh North Carolina
04/13/2023
EP 51: The BEST Trails in Raleigh North Carolina
https://thisisraleigh.com/raleigh-trails/2023 is the Year of the Trail in North Carolina and we're grateful to live in an area that has so many awesome opportunities for walking and biking trails. In this episode we share our favorite and tips for what to take to get you up off the couch, out the door, and hitting the excellent greenway and forest trails we have at our disposal. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Lake trails Greenway trails Bike trails Umstead State Park Hiking with kids Tips for what to take when hiking RESOURCES: Full guide: https://thisisraleigh.com/raleigh-trails/
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/26534667
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EP 50: Brandon McCraney, Founder of Olde Raleigh Distillery
03/09/2023
EP 50: Brandon McCraney, Founder of Olde Raleigh Distillery
Brandon McCraney is the owner, operator, and master blender at in Zebulon with a focus on the art of blending and distilling spirits, and he's been on a mission to make damn good whiskey since its establishment in 2017. In this episode Brandon shares the differences between whiskey and bourbon, the many challenges he faced getting off the ground, the process of blending, what makes Olde Raleigh different from other distilleries, why he chose Zebulon and the community response, and much more! WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Bourbon vs Whiskey Challenges he faced getting the distillery off the ground How his military background helped him stay the course. The process of blending spirits How to know what flavor profiles go well together. Where he sources his barrels, and why they are important. What makes Olde Raleigh different from other distilleries! How to taste test bourbon Different ways to drink it. Why he opened in Zebulon, and the community response. The different aspects of his distillery and what you can do there. And much more! REOURCES:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/26176710
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EP 49: International Flights from Raleigh Durham Airport
02/14/2023
EP 49: International Flights from Raleigh Durham Airport
We love our local Raleigh Durham Airport (RDU) for many reasons, and in this episode, we discuss international flight options from RDU as well as tips for parking, eating, and getting to RDU. Plus, we share our personal experiences of flying to , and from RDU, why it might be best sometimes to drive to Charlotte for international flights, plus other important WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Why we love Raleigh Durham Airport Raleigh vs. Charlotte Airport International flight options from Raleigh Parking at RDU Food at RDU Why driving to Charlotte could save you money flying overseas Our trips to, , and Tips for booking flights RESOURCES: Full show notes:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/25925772
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EP 48: Health and Wellness Companies we Use and Love in Raleigh
01/31/2023
EP 48: Health and Wellness Companies we Use and Love in Raleigh
We prescribe to the notion that “prevention is better than cure” when it comes to health and wellness, and in this episode, we share local businesses in the Raleigh area that we personally use for various health and wellness needs and the services they offer. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Our health history Chiropractic Reiki Our gyms Infrared sauna Blue Water medical spa Where I purchase my grass-fed meat RESOURCES: F45 – /
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EP 47: What's ahead for 2023?
01/20/2023
EP 47: What's ahead for 2023?
We are back Raleigh! Back on the podcast for the new year ahead. We've listened to the feedback and suggestions of over 400 people who completed our annual survey. It was so helpful and important for planning our 2023 year of Raleigh content. In this episode we chat about what we see ahead for 2023 in Raleigh, based upon the survey results. We share our business plans, life goals, and of course our travel plans. Let's do this 2023! We'd love to hear your goals for 2023 in the comments! Full show notes:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/25682277
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46: What's it like to live in Boylan Heights, Raleigh?
10/21/2022
46: What's it like to live in Boylan Heights, Raleigh?
The Boylan Heights neighborhood in Raleigh is one of our favorites! It's hard to beat location - on the edge of Downtown Raleigh and next door to Pullen Park - plus Charming Southern homes and small neighborly feel makes it an ideal . It's also a great place for anybody to grab a coffee from Rebus Works, some pastries from Boulted Bread, a craft brew from Vaulted Craft Brew, and lunch/dinner from Wye Hill! WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT Our new series on the blog creating neighborhood guides (includes video and podcasts) Where Boylan Heights is located What makes Boylan Heights a unique and wonderful place to live A little about the style of homes in Boylan Heights Sunrise and sunset at the iconic Boylan Bridge The artistic vibe of Boylan Heights with its annual Art Walk and galleries It’s proximity to Pullen Park, Dorothea Dix Park, the Warehouse District and Glenwood Ave Some cool neighborhood bars, cafes and restaurants RESOURCES (includes Boylan Heights) If you're looking to move to the Raleigh area, we can help you with a realtor and settling into community. Reach out here. Full guide to Boylan Heights neighborhood in Raleigh: https://thisisraleigh.com/boylan-heights-raleigh/
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/24762054
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EP 45: What to Do in Raleigh in the Fall
09/07/2022
EP 45: What to Do in Raleigh in the Fall
It's almost Fall, y'all, our favorite time of year. It's the time of fun festivals, leaf peeping, patio dining, picnics, trails to hike, pumpkin flavored everything and Halloween fun. In this episode we chat about the best things to do in Raleigh in Fall. What we talked about: When is Fall in Raleigh? Best places in Raleigh to see Fall colors Greenway trails and lakes we love Picnic spots in the Fall Cafes and bars for Fall seasonal treats Festivals & events in Fall Halloween fun and house decorations Why the beach is great during September! Tips for going to the mountains! Resources mentioned: Full guide: https://thisisraleigh.com/things-to-do-in-raleigh-in-the-fall/
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EP 44: Getting to Know Raleigh (for first time visitors or relocators)
08/26/2022
EP 44: Getting to Know Raleigh (for first time visitors or relocators)
If you are visiting Raleigh for the first time, let us be your personal chaperone. Listen in as we share all the experiences you'd have, and the places we'd take you to get to know all about the city of Raleigh including neighborhoods, restaurants, festivals, sporting events, parks, trails, breweries and much more! WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Best neighborhoods to explore Places to eat & drink Trails to walk Parks to visit Lakes to explore Festivals to attend Sports to go watch And other uniquely Raleigh experiences RESOURCES: Full guide: Raleigh Realtor: https://thisisraleigh.com/finding-a-realtor-raleigh-nc/
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43: 3 Great Theme Parks near Raleigh, NC
08/17/2022
43: 3 Great Theme Parks near Raleigh, NC
You don't have to travel all the way to Florida from Raleigh to get your thrills and spills at theme parks. In this episode we share three great theme parks near Raleigh for riding big roller coasters, water slides and creating family memories. We're traveling to Carowinds near Charlotte, Wet & Wild in Greensboro and Busch Gardens in Virginia. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Carowinds Amusement Park in Charlotte, NC How to get there, why we loved Carowinds, rides we loved most, ticket optioBusch ns, we to stay, and much more! Wet n’ Wild Waterpark in Greensboro, NC Why our kids loved Wet n’ Wild, getting there, why renting a cabana is a good idea, how to plan your day and much more! Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA. All the fun we had riding the roller coasters, exploring the European landscaped villages, and the fun activities for young kids. RESOURCES: Full Show Notes:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/24084108
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EP 42: Well Centered Wellness with Dr. Allison Peters
08/12/2022
EP 42: Well Centered Wellness with Dr. Allison Peters
In this episode we chat with the founder of Well Centered Wellness in Apex, Dr. Allison Puja Peters, and why our own family has been going to see her for years now for various health treatments and preventative care. She specializes in many areas of wellness including chiropractic, Ozone therapy, PEMF sound technology, Brain Tap, Red Light Therapy, Infrared laser, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Genetic Based Nutrition, CBD & Hemp. Listen in for some great insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. Full show notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/dr-allison-peters-wellness/
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/24035493
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49: Raleigh Summer Bucket List
08/05/2022
49: Raleigh Summer Bucket List
It is hot out there y’all, but we do love a Raleigh summer and embracing all the fun things to do at this time of year. In this episode, we chat about a fun list of activities and events to help cool you down and enjoy the beautiful weather! WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Awesome places to go Paddle boarding & kayaking in Raleigh Places in Raleigh to swim Hiking trails Breweries with beer gardens Picnic spots Sunset spots Museums Durham Bulls Rooftop bars Pullen Park Concerts & Festivals Women's soccer Trampoline park Outdoor movies Sunflower fields Indoor rock climbing Volunteering Resources: Full show notes:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/23974575
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: Cary Heise, founder of Designed For Joy
07/26/2022
: Cary Heise, founder of Designed For Joy
Cary, and her partner Kristen Sydow, are amazing. @DesignedForJoy in downtown Raleigh provides women in crisis (those living at high risk for sex and labor trafficking and/or food and housing insecurities) with stability through immediate employment (a living wage) and support, removing the stigma of vulnerability. This is an inspiring story of women helping women. Cary shares all about how Designed For Joy came about, what women they can help, how they help them, why she wanted to serve women, where you can purchase their beautiful products, how you can volunteer for them, and so much more! WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: How Cary got started in mission work and the non-profit space What is Designed For Joy and how did it start? How they help women How did she set up Designed for Joy Why she calls herself a visionary Why she wanted to serve women in this way Her background and where she grew up Getting her start in Costa Rica How the process works with Designed for Joy How long they work with each woman How the Raleigh community can support Designed For Joy Where you can purchase their products Pop up porch parties How to volunteer at Designed For Joy Her favorite things to do in Raleigh What does Joy mean Her favorite Margarita spot in Raleigh and other Raleigh faves RESOURCE LINKS:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/23861853
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39. Second quarter Raleigh wrap up
07/15/2022
39. Second quarter Raleigh wrap up
Half the year gone again! Each quarter we record a wrap on what we've been doing in Raleigh, new fun finds, any important news and what's coming up for third quarter! In this second quarter wrap for 2022, we talk about cool beaches near Raleigh, a great new camping lakeside camping location we discovered, some fun festivals and events, and being Raleigh real estate agents! We also introduce a new Australian word! Full show notes: https://thisisraleigh.com/podcast-39-second-quarter-raleigh-wrap-up/
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38: Cool things to do in Durham, NC
07/15/2022
38: Cool things to do in Durham, NC
Only 30 minutes up the road from Raleigh is Durham, named the "tastiest town in the South". Durham is also famous for Duke University and Durham Bulls' baseball. We also love the inclusive, entrepreneurial spirit of Durham. We chat about our recent staycation in Durham with our top recommendations on things to do - even if just on a one day trip! We explore art, culture, and of course food and drink! Cool wine bars and frozen custard ahead. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Why Durham makes for a great day trip from Raleigh (or staycation) What Durham is known for Cool places to eat and drink Top activities to do in Durham Fun things to do with kids And much more! RESOURCE LINKS: (Duke Arts Annex) (Durham Performing Arts Center) More:
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37: Best Beaches near Raleigh (less than 3 hour drive)
06/24/2022
37: Best Beaches near Raleigh (less than 3 hour drive)
One of the great things about living in Raleigh is not being too far from the North Carolina Coast. In this podcast we share some of our favorite beaches near Raleigh. We discuss their different personalities, what we love about them, and some standout things to do and see in each one. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: What beaches makes for a great getaway from Raleigh Highlights of each beach town RESOURCE LINKS: Read more: 12 great beaches near Raleigh https://thisisraleigh.com/beaches-near-raleigh/
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36: Looking for Raleigh Real Estate Agents? We can help!
06/15/2022
36: Looking for Raleigh Real Estate Agents? We can help!
In this episode we talk about our new Raleigh real estate business, how we can connect you to awesome realtors, a mortgage broker, and experts in all areas of moving to Raleigh. This is Raleigh podcast is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace
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35. Marcus Ginyard (former UNC Basketball Captain)
05/26/2022
35. Marcus Ginyard (former UNC Basketball Captain)
Marcus Ginyard graduated from UNC in 2010 with all the basketball accolades you can imagine including NCAA champion, team captain, defensive player of the year, and All-ACC defense. After a 12-year career playing overseas in various countries - Poland, France, Ukraine to name a few - Marcus is back in the Triangle and starting his second career with . Tune in to find out what his time at UNC was like, playing professionally overseas, what's going on with his next chapter, and so much more! WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Meeting Marcus in 2008 at a UNC fans day Where he grew up and went to high school, when he started playing basketball Impact of his older brother as his assistant coach in high school When he knew he wanted to play at UNC, and how he got recruited Other schools he was interested in playing for Why he chose UNC and his thought process What it was like playing at UNC Coach Roy Willams’s influence on his game, and how he still supports him through life What Roy is like as a person away from the game College life away from the basketball court How he dealt with the pressure of being a student athlete plus studying, and the support system in place at UNC How they prepared for a game The transition from high school to college basketball Impact and influence and support of his parents in his success Listening to his intuition, and why he practices meditation Why it’s important to make your bed everyday (even in a hotel room) What it was like captaining the team (and the challenge of 2010 season) What he learnt about himself through his injuries Winning the defensive player of the year and all ACC defensive team The toughest player he had to guard in college The experience of playing in Europe Favorite country he lived in Europe Travel experiences in Europe Difference between Europe and USA basketball Dealing with the business side of basketball Difference between pro and college basketball The most transformative experience he had in his life How he disconnects and stays grounded His travel tip for getting from Raleigh to France What he is doing now in business and life His biggest challenge coming back to the USA What he loves about being back in the Triangle region What makes the Carolina family special Living with Danny Green on campus Our frat party experience Why Cameron Indoor is NOT the toughest place to play! The famous Danny Green dunk at Duke Where he was during this years epic Final 4 vs Duke Where he takes friends for breakfast, lunch and dinner in The Triangle What he thinks about Australia RESOURCES:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/23238290
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34. Zack Johnson, Empire Agency and Girls Night Out
05/15/2022
34. Zack Johnson, Empire Agency and Girls Night Out
When Raleigh native Zack Johnson (Leesville High School) was playing drums in shows throughout the Carolinas, he was always the business guy - the one who didn't want to just jam out, but he also wanted to figure out how to build a music empire. After touring with acts like Afroman and ending up in Los Angeles, he started , which represents musicians and athletes. In 2020, Zack and his growing family came back home, and he's now helping local musicians take their genius to the next level. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Where he grew up and went to school. How he got into what he’s doing now. Who is the The Empire Agency and what they do! What brought him back to Raleigh from LA. How he would describe the Entertainment industry here in Raleigh. The “Girls Night Out” Concert? His favorite Raleigh spots. Favorite getaway spot in NC. And much more! RESOURCES:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/23113580
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33. Raleigh vs London
05/11/2022
33. Raleigh vs London
The This is Raleigh family visited London recently and loved every minute of it. Today they give their London travel tips and compare the City of Royals to the City of Oaks. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Our London story Size or Raleigh vs London Public transport comparison Beer culture Coffee scene Museums in each city Hospitality and service differences (NO tipping) Weather Parks History of each city Why Raleigh needs a river! Flights from Raleigh Personality of British vs American Different saying in each country And much more! RESOURCES:
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/23075246
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32. Slice Pie Company's Kristen Mullins "The Pie Lady"
04/21/2022
32. Slice Pie Company's Kristen Mullins "The Pie Lady"
Raleigh native Kristen Mullins comes on to tell us how she and her dad made (baked?) the idea for , the company's expansion, the most popular sellers, and what makes Raleigh so special. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT Where she grew up and went to school. How she go into what she’s doing now. What was it like baking with your dad. How the Slice of Pie company came about. Her “WHY” for doing what she does now. Failures and successes along the way. Thoughts on leaving corporate life. The many different pies she makes. Awards won. Most popular pie she sells. Her favorite pie. Why is it so difficult to make GOOD pies. Best thing about running her business. Her new location. And much more. RESOURCES Pick up a pie at Slice’s new location, 1400 S. Saunders St. Raleigh. Pick up a pie at Slice's new location, 1400 S. Saunders St. Raleigh, NC 27603.
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/22866782
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31. Our 2022 Q1 Review
04/04/2022
31. Our 2022 Q1 Review
The first quarter of 2022 has absolutely flown by! Today we talk about some of the amazing experiences we've had in Raleigh and throughout North Carolina, and what's ahead for the rest of the year! This is Raleigh is hosted by Caroline and Craig Makepeace, and is produced by .
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30. Kiara and Terrance Ruth
03/15/2022
30. Kiara and Terrance Ruth
may be the next mayor of Raleigh. Kiara Ruth is an influencer and blogger at . Together, they're a Raleigh power couple, and they share their story on today's episode. WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT: Their backgrounds Story of how they met First impressions of Raleigh? How they describe the community here in Raleigh Why Terrance is running to become the mayor Terrance’s key campaign messages Kiara’s online business and her work in the community How she describes the female entrepreneur community in Raleigh How they describe each other’s personality in 3 words What was important to you as parents in deciding where to send their son to school? Their favorite things to do in Raleigh And so much more… RESOURCE LINKS: Terrance’s website: Kiara’s website: For more on things to do in and around Raleigh, visit .
/episode/index/show/thisisraleigh/id/22450034