The Best of Raleigh

Gretchen Coley
  • 4.9 (8)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

🎙️ The Best of Raleigh highlights the people, places, and businesses that make Raleigh and the surrounding North Carolina communities extraordinary. Hosted by Gretchen Coley of The Coley Group, each episode shares stories, local expertise, and hidden gems that elevate living in the Greater Raleigh area. From trusted vendors and entrepreneurs to food, culture, and lifestyle tips, this podcast connects you with what makes Raleigh thrive.

  1. 23H AGO

    Running for Heroes: Jalen Snipes’ 150-Mile Challenge to Honor North Carolina Firefighters

    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: The why behind his 150-mile personal challengeThe connection between training, mindset, and success in real estateHow discipline and purpose fuel his drive — both on the road and in lifeThe Coley Group’s surprise $5,000 match to support Jaylen’s fundraising goal 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

    15 min

  2. 6D AGO

    A Culinary Love Letter to India with Chef Bhavin Chhatwani | Best of Raleigh Episode 64

    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.

    22 min

  3. SEP 26

    Elevating Beauty & Confidence with Rosa Bella Artistry | Best of Raleigh Episode 63

    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.

    20 min

  4. SEP 19

    Building Community & Core Strength with BK Pilates | Best of Raleigh Episode 62

    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.

    19 min

  5. SEP 12

    From Self-Care to Confidence: Greta Nance with Amelia Aesthetics | Best of Raleigh Episode 61

    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.

    28 min

  6. SEP 5

    Raleigh’s New Medspa for Regenerative Skincare | Best of Raleigh Episode 60

    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.

    18 min

  7. JUN 27

    Bringing Italian Luxury to Raleigh with D. Lacquaniti | Best of Raleigh Episode 59

    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.

    23 min

  8. JUN 20

    Discover the Builder Behind Raleigh’s Most Iconic Homes | Best of Raleigh Episode 58

    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.

    33 min
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4.9
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

🎙️ The Best of Raleigh highlights the people, places, and businesses that make Raleigh and the surrounding North Carolina communities extraordinary. Hosted by Gretchen Coley of The Coley Group, each episode shares stories, local expertise, and hidden gems that elevate living in the Greater Raleigh area. From trusted vendors and entrepreneurs to food, culture, and lifestyle tips, this podcast connects you with what makes Raleigh thrive.

Information

  • Creator
    Gretchen Coley
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    65
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Gretchen Coley
  • Show Website
    The Best of Raleigh

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