Raleigh isn’t just a place—it’s a community fueled by visionaries, creators, and change makers who make our city vibrant and unique. At Best of Raleigh, we’re passionate about shining a light on the incredible people who make this city such a special place to live.

We’re excited to re-release some of our most inspiring episodes on our new YouTube channel! If you missed them the first time, now’s your chance to experience these powerful conversations firsthand. And trust us—you’re going to want to watch these stories unfold on screen.

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Here’s who you’ll meet in our latest releases

Ryan Darge of Origin Point: Mortgage Expertise Made Simple

February 10, 2025

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and understanding your mortgage options is key. That’s where Ryan Darge, a top mortgage professional at Origin Point, comes in. With a client-first approach, Ryan is committed to making sure every homebuyer feels confident, informed, and supported throughout their journey.

But this isn’t just another conversation about mortgages—Ryan breaks it down in a way that’s easy to understand and genuinely helpful for anyone considering buying a home in Raleigh.

Why you need to watch this episode:

✔️ How to navigate today’s mortgage market (without the stress)
✔️ Top mistakes buyers make—and how to avoid them
✔️ What’s happening in Raleigh’s real estate scene right now

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, Ryan’s advice will give you insights you won’t want to miss.

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Joanne Wetzel of Five Freedoms Photography: Capturing the Love We Have for Our Pets

February 12, 2025

Pets aren’t just animals—they’re family. And Joanne Wetzel, founder of Five Freedoms Photography, understands the deep connection we share with our furry companions.

Through her work, Joanne tells heartfelt stories of love and companionship, capturing authentic, emotional portraits that pet owners cherish forever. But her impact doesn’t stop there—she also works closely with local rescue organizations, using her talent to help pets in need find forever homes.

Why you need to watch this episode:

🐾 A behind-the-scenes look at pet portrait photography
🐾 How Joanne helps rescue animals through her work
🐾 Tips for capturing stunning photos of your own pet

If you’re a pet lover, this episode will warm your heart and inspire you.

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Maggie Kane of A Place at the Table: A Café with a Mission

February 14, 2025

At A Place at the Table, everyone is welcome, and no one leaves hungry. That’s the powerful mission Maggie Kane brought to life when she founded Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can café.

This episode is more than just a conversation about food—it’s a powerful reminder of how a single idea can bring people together, create community, and change lives. Maggie shares the challenges, triumphs, and heartwarming moments that have shaped A Place at the Table into the community-driven space it is today.

Why you need to watch this episode:

🍽️ The inspiring story behind Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can café
🍽️ How Maggie turned a vision into a reality
🍽️ Ways you can get involved and support this incredible mission

Maggie’s energy, passion, and dedication will leave you feeling inspired and hopeful about what’s possible when a community comes together.

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Watch, Subscribe & Stay Connected!

These incredible guests are a testament to the talent, compassion, and innovation thriving in Raleigh. But to truly experience their stories, you need to see them in action.

✨ Subscribe to our new YouTube channel now → The Best of Living in Raleigh

✨ Watch these episodes & more → The Best of Raleigh Podcast on YouTube

✨ Join the conversation—which story inspired you the most? Comment on YouTube & let us know!

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If you are looking to move to Raleigh, take our five minute neighborhood match survey to get paired with your perfect neighborhood today!

Let’s celebrate the best of Raleigh—together.