Authentic flavor. Heartfelt hospitality. Raleigh roots.
In this episode of Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Ajit, founder of Jalwa Indian Bistro, one of North Raleigh’s most talked-about new restaurants near Northridge Country Club. After years in the banking world, Ajit followed his passion for food and people, bringing a world-class dining experience to the Triangle.
Born from a love of authentic Indian cuisine, Jalwa blends bold regional flavors with modern presentation, transforming how Raleigh experiences Indian food. From zero-waste cooking and handcrafted cocktails to a menu that balances spice, freshness, and creativity, every dish tells a story of heritage and heart.
Ajit shares his journey from corporate life to culinary entrepreneurship, his mission to elevate Indian dining beyond the expected curry and naan, and how Jalwa became a place where community and culture meet around the table.
If you love great food, local stories, and conversations that celebrate Raleigh’s global flavor, this episode is for you.
🎧 Best of Raleigh — curated by The Coley Group, the #1 Compass team in the Triangle.
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Girls’ Night In. Southern charm. Raleigh connection.
In this episode of Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Vicki Serrani, founder of Home for Entertaining in downtown Cary. After decades designing stunning homes through her firm, Southern Studio, Vicki saw a need to bring true hospitality back, so she created a space where gatherings are simple, stylish, and full of joy.
Part event space, part boutique, part teaching kitchen, Home for Entertaining is redefining how the Triangle comes together. Vicki shares how her family business began, the inspiration behind her Girls’ Nights, and why authentic connection matters more than picture-perfect hosting.
If you love community, creativity, and stories that celebrate Southern hospitality, this episode is for you.
🎧 Best of Raleigh curated by The Coley Group, the #1 Compass team in the Triangle.
Subscribe for new episodes every Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Luxury meets craftsmanship. Vision meets style.
In this episode of Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Wick Morgan, the creative force and founder behind The Spectacle, Raleigh’s premier destination for luxury eyewear in North Hills. With over 30 years in global fashion and optical design, Wick isn’t just selling glasses—he’s curating personal style, one frame at a time.
From his early days selling sunglasses in ski resorts to managing elite brands in New York and California, Wick’s journey has been anything but ordinary. His passion for artistry, precision, and genuine connection shines through in every frame and every client experience.
Discover how The Spectacle became a North Hills icon, why Wick believes eyewear should fit your lifestyle (not the other way around), and how a father-son partnership is shaping the future of this family-run business.
If you love stories of craftsmanship, design, and the people defining Raleigh’s style scene, this episode is for you.
🎧 Best of Raleigh — curated by The Coley Group, the #1 Compass team in the Triangle.
Subscribe for new episodes every Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Good food. Great people. Raleigh charm.
In this episode of Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Haley Borden, the visionary founder of Good Graces, a new gathering spot in North Hills.
Part market, part bar, part eatery, Good Graces is redefining what it means to eat, drink, and connect in Raleigh. Haley shares her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, the inspiration behind her Southern-inspired menu, and what it’s like to build a business while raising a young family.
If you love local stories, community, and the people shaping Raleigh’s future, this episode is for you.
🎧 Best of Raleigh curated by The Coley Group, the #1 Compass team in the Triangle.
Subscribe for new episodes every Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Insurance may not be flashy, but in today’s episode of Best of Raleigh, we make it real, personal, and even... fun?
Join host Gretchen Coley as she sits down with Nick Nance, a Raleigh native and former general contractor turned trusted insurance advisor with NC Farm Bureau. Nick shares how his background in construction and disaster restoration gave him a hands-on perspective that now helps families build bulletproof insurance coverage—from home and auto to life and liability.
You’ll learn:
This episode is packed with practical advice, relatable stories, and a whole lot of heart—because Nick isn’t just about policies. He’s about people.
Don’t leave your peace of mind to chance. Hit play and hear how to protect what matters most—Raleigh style.
Dream Homes, Local Roots: Inside Exeter Building Company with Stephen Dunn
In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, host Gretchen Coley sits down with Stephen Dunn, President of Exeter Building Company, one of Raleigh’s premier luxury home builders. Discover how Exeter blends timeless design, craftsmanship, and client-first service to redefine modern living in the Triangle.
Stephen shares his journey from CPA to homebuilding leader, what drives Exeter’s philosophy of “building homes we’d want to live in,” and how their team culture and commitment to client care are shaping Raleigh’s most sought-after neighborhoods.
If you love stunning homes, inspired leadership, and stories that celebrate the vibrant heart of Raleigh, this episode is a must-listen.
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In this inspiring special edition of The Best of Raleigh, host Gretchen Coley sits down with Jaylen Snipes, a real estate advisor at The Coley Group and an endurance athlete on a mission to give back to North Carolina’s everyday heroes.
Jaylen isn’t just running for fitness — he’s running 150 miles from Raleigh to Charlotte to raise awareness and funds for the North Carolina Firefighter Fund, an organization that supports firefighters and their families when they need it most. His story began years ago when lightning struck his childhood home, and firefighters risked their lives to save his family. Now, he’s channeling that gratitude into an extraordinary act of endurance, resilience, and heart.
In this conversation, Gretchen and Jaylen dive deep into:
If you’ve ever needed motivation to push past limits, find your “why,” or simply believe in the power of community — this episode will move you.
Donate to support Jaylen’s run: Visit his JustGiving page via @jalensnipes
A Michelin-trained chef. A James Beard nomination. A mission to redefine Indian cuisine in the South.
In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, host Gretchen Coley sits down with Chef Bhavin Chhatwani, the culinary visionary behind Tamasha Modern Indian in North Hills. From palaces in India to Michelin-starred kitchens in San Francisco, Bhavin’s journey is as flavorful as the dishes he creates.
He shares how Tamasha became his personal “love letter to India,” blending modern presentation with regional spices and Southern inspiration. With crowd favorites like Oyster 65, Betki Chili Shrimp, and the nostalgic Keema Kaleji, Tamasha is changing the way Raleigh experiences Indian cuisine—one bold, beautifully plated dish at a time.
Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at Tamasha’s craft cocktail program, Bhavin’s food dreams, and what’s coming next for this rising culinary star.
If you love fine dining, global flavors, and stories rooted in passion and purpose—this episode is for you.
In this episode of The Best of Raleigh Podcast, host Gretchen Coley sits down with Amity Rosa, CEO & Founder of Rosa Bella Artistry. An internationally published makeup artist and creative director, Amity has worked with top fashion brands, celebrities, and loyal clients who trust her to bring out their most confident selves.
From her early beginnings in the beauty industry to building Rosa Bella Artistry into a brand that empowers and inspires, Amity shares how she turns artistry into confidence and self-expression. She opens up about her creative process, why beauty should always be personal, and how she helps clients feel radiant inside and out.
🎧 Tune in to hear Amity’s journey and discover how Rosa Bella Artistry is elevating Raleigh’s beauty scene.
In this episode of The Best of Raleigh Podcast, Gretchen Coley talks with Julia Davis and Marina Kaydanova, the dynamic duo behind BK Pilates Raleigh. From New York beginnings to Raleigh’s Rockway district, Julia and Marina share their journey of friendship, entrepreneurship, and bringing true reformer Pilates to the Triangle.
Discover how BK Pilates is more than a workout—it’s a community built on the philosophy of Be Kind. With small class sizes, intentional movement, and an inclusive approach, Julia and Marina are redefining wellness in Raleigh.
Whether you’re a Pilates pro or simply looking for balance in your fitness routine, this conversation is full of inspiration, insight, and practical takeaways for anyone on a self-care journey.
🎧 Tune in to hear how BK Pilates is shaping Raleigh’s wellness scene, one reformer class at a time.
What does it take to build one of the most trusted names in aesthetics? For Greta Nance, it’s 22 years of radical transparency, patient education, and fearless leadership.
In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, host Gretchen Coley sits down with Greta, Director of Brand Strategy at Amelia Aesthetics, to explore her journey from front desk to executive leader—and how her personal story has helped shape a practice known for empowering women through honesty and innovation.
Greta opens up about the stigma around plastic surgery, the growth of Amelia’s all-female team, and why education has always been at the heart of their mission. From launching Bustmob, a 100,000+ strong online community for women, to preparing for the fall launch of Amelia Health, Greta continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in self-care.
If you’ve ever considered aesthetics, felt unsure about where to start, or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at one of Raleigh’s most impactful women in business—this one’s for you.
Tune in now and get inspired by a conversation that’s equal parts real talk and radiant energy.
Get ready to rethink skincare. In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Liz Smith, co-founder and CEO of ILŪMRA Skin, Raleigh’s newest medspa redefining self-care through a holistic, inside-out approach. With over 50 years of combined experience across the aesthetics and medical industries, Liz and her co-founders are introducing a new standard for regenerative beauty—where clinical expertise meets warmth, community, and elevated design.
From personalized facials and injectable treatments to cutting-edge regenerative aesthetics, ILŪMRA’s focus is helping clients feel confident in their skin at every age. Liz shares how the business was born, what makes their approach different, and why Raleigh is the perfect place to plant roots and grow.
If you’re passionate about skin health, functional beauty, or discovering the Triangle’s most inspiring female entrepreneurs, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Step into the world of bespoke Italian luxury with Dominique of D. Lacquaniti, the creative force behind some of Raleigh’s most exquisite footwear. In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Dominique to uncover how his heritage, artistry, and dedication to comfort have led to a shoe collection like no other. From sourcing vintage leathers in Italy’s Marche region to redefining retail exclusivity through local trunk shows, Dominique shares his journey, passion, and the craftsmanship behind every pair. If you love fashion, comfort, and a dose of quiet luxury, you don’t want to miss this one.
Thinking about building a custom home in Raleigh? In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, host Gretchen Coley sits down with Tim Thompson, founder of Raleigh Custom Homes, a builder known for pushing the limits of ultra-luxury living. With over 30 years of experience, Tim shares how he’s elevating Raleigh’s luxury home scene—from trendsetting Parade of Homes entries to his company’s bold strategy of building high-end inventory homes with fully integrated pools, cutting-edge technology, and sustainability in mind.
Tim also opens up about his unique approach to design, why Raleigh continues to attract high-net-worth buyers, and how luxury leasing is creating new options in this fast-moving market. Whether you're looking to move to Raleigh or just love stunning home design, this episode is full of inspiration and insights you won’t want to miss. Tune in to learn how Raleigh Custom Homes is shaping the future of luxury real estate in the Triangle.
Healthcare is evolving—and Vega Vitality is leading the charge in Cary’s Fenton. In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Dr. Andrew Donohoe, Medical Director of Vega Vitality, to talk about what it really means to help people look and feel their best. With a background in internal medicine and over a decade of experience in hospitals, Dr. Donohoe shares how his personal journey inspired a shift from treating illness to optimizing well-being—inside and out. From science-backed weight loss coaching and wellness consults to collagen-stimulating Sculptra and cutting-edge treatments like NeoGen, Vega offers a full spectrum of care in one inviting, elevated space. Whether you’re curious about nutrition support, advanced skincare, or just want to feel more energized day to day, this conversation is packed with insights on the future of feeling good. ✨
Raleigh’s green spaces are more than just places to play—they’re a cornerstone of the city’s identity. In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Stephen Bentley, Director of Raleigh Parks, to explore how the city’s parks, greenways, and community centers go from concept to reality. From leading multi-million dollar bond referendums to overseeing 200+ parks and 120 miles of greenway, Stephen shares what it takes to design a park system that supports wellness, equity, and vibrant community life for every Raleigh resident. Stephen opens up about his 20-year journey in public service, the vision behind Dorothea Dix Park’s transformation, and how Raleigh is becoming a “park with a city in it.” Whether you’re raising a family, planning a move, or just love spending time outside, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the role parks play in shaping Raleigh’s future.
When it comes to protecting your lifestyle, legacy, and everything you’ve worked hard to build, insurance matters more than most people realize. In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Katie McLean, Private Client Advisor at McGriff (now part of Marsh McLennan Agency), to talk about how she’s redefining the insurance experience for high-net-worth individuals. From multi-property coverage to exotic vehicles and personal collections, Katie takes a big-picture, relationship-first approach that’s all about protecting what matters most—without the pressure or jargon. Katie shares why annual reviews are essential, how flood and umbrella policies really work, and how she brings unmatched value to clients with assets across multiple states. More than an insurance expert, she’s a trusted advisor who leads with empathy, strategy, and straight talk—exactly the kind of person you want in your corner when life happens. Tune in to hear how Katie’s work is helping Raleigh families feel confident, covered, and cared for.Â
Moving to Raleigh just got a whole lot smarter. In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Taylor Casey, the creator of Kahmino, a game-changing neighborhood match survey built exclusively for Coley Group clients. Designed to help buyers match their lifestyle with the perfect neighborhood, Kahmino uses a quick, five-minute quiz to deliver personalized results that go far beyond price points and square footage. Whether it’s walkability, local coffee shops, or that Saturday morning vibe, Kahmino helps you find where you truly belong. Taylor shares the inspiration behind Kahmino, how it’s already transforming the way people buy homes in Raleigh, and what’s next as this Raleigh-born startup expands into new markets. If you’re moving across the country or just across town, tune in on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts and discover how this innovative tool is changing the way we search for home—starting right here in the Triangle.Â
Wine lovers, this one’s for you! 🍷 In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Jenny Farmer and Paula Kornell—two women who have turned their love for wine into something unforgettable. Jenny, a Raleigh local, and her husband Mike launched ZFG Wines, a bold but approachable Napa Valley Cabernet brand that blends passion with polish. Meanwhile, Paula, a fourth-generation winemaker, brings decades of expertise and sparkle through her celebrated Paula Kornell Bubbles label. From sharing their first sips in Napa, to building brands that now pour into Raleigh’s top restaurants and wine shops, Jenny and Paula open up about the behind-the-scenes reality of the wine business—licensing, logistics, and the joy of creating something that brings people together. You’ll also learn how their wines are supporting local causes like the Triangle Wine & Food Experience and Frankie Lemmon School, showing that doing good can taste amazing, too. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just love a good glass of bubbles with popcorn (yes, really!), this episode is packed with personality, inspiration, and a little rosé-fueled girl power. Watch now on YouTube or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts—and discover how two fearless women are bottling the best of Napa and sharing it with Raleigh.
In this episode of The Best of Raleigh, we’re talking fashion, entrepreneurship, and Raleigh’s retail renaissance with Kayla Brewer, founder of Voda Boutique — the go-to destination where timeless meets trendy in North Hills. Kayla shares how she turned a childhood love for fashion into a thriving brand rooted in style, service, and local flair. From her days at NC State’s College of Textiles to launching Voda in a tiny downtown shop (and leveling up to North Hills), Kayla opens up about the real journey behind building a boutique that empowers women of all ages to feel confident and comfortable. We dive into her lessons in entrepreneurship, her vision for the future, and how Voda is redefining what it means to look good, feel good in Raleigh. Plus — her take on the power of live selling, styling for all generations, and advice for young women dreaming of starting their own business. If you love local business stories, empowering women in fashion, and discovering Raleigh’s hidden gems — this one’s for you.