PODCAST · society
Topsail Insider
by Christa Schroeder
Planning a trip to Topsail Island? Topsail Insider helps visitors discover more of what the Greater Topsail area of North Carolina has to offer—beyond our beautiful beaches. Through conversations with local business owners and nonprofit leaders, you’ll discover places to eat, shop, stay, explore, and have fun, along with helpful services, community resources, and the people who make the area special. The podcast covers Hampstead, Surf City, Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach, Holly Ridge, Sneads Ferry, and surrounding coastal communities. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another favorite Topsail vacation, Topsail Insider will help you experience the area like an insider. Local residents can discover new favorites close to home, while new and prospective residents can learn more about the community before making their move.
Episodes
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The 1865 Society of Pender County's Juneteenth Celebration
Guest: Karen Malloy, president of The 1865 Society of Pender County, talking about the organization’s mission, local history, community programs, scholarships, and their annual Juneteenth celebration held on the 4th Saturday in June in Burgaw, NC. Check their website for event details including a...
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Lewis Realty Associates
Guest: Chris Rackley, Owner and President of Lewis Realty Associates, and a local leader in vacation rentals and real estate on Topsail Island. Chris shares his personal journey, from working on shrimp boats as a kid to leading a full-service real estate team managing over 170 vacation homes. We...
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Mary E. Poppins the Pet Nanny
Guest: Mary Mika, owner of Mary E. Poppins the Pet Nanny, and Topsail’s most trusted pet sitter! Mary shares her personal journey from a childhood filled with love and loss to overcoming cancer while building a trusted pet service. She explains how her unique in-home pet-sitting and drop-in...
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Untitled Theatre Productions
Guests: Founder, Emily Graham, and her Partner, Steve Campbell, of Untitled Theatre Productions in Hampstead, NC. Emily and Steve share how they’ve built a thriving, inclusive theater community where kids perform for free, families volunteer together, and everyone—regardless of background or...
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The Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern North Carolina
Guest: Dawn-Michelle Blalock, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern NC, discussing how the organization is shaping young lives through academic support, character development, social wellness, and workforce training. Dawn-Michelle shares her personal journey—from a background in nursing…
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Freedom Flow Collective
Guest: Haley Marie, a certified trauma-informed breathwork facilitator and owner of Freedom Flow Collective, discussing her emotional journey from working as a doula to discovering the healing power of breathwork. Listeners are also guided through a brief breath awareness exercise and can learn...
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Coastal Health & Fitness, Karen’s Favorites, and Sound View Life
Guest: Karen Redmond, an osteopathic therapist, nutritionist, and owner of Coastal Health and Fitness. Karen shares her unique approach to injury recovery, holistic health, and performance training—helping everyone from elite athletes to those recovering from surgery. She also discusses her...
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Garlock & McKinney
Guest: Mariah McKinney, a lawyer and partner at Garlock & McKinney. They explore crucial yet often overlooked legal matters including wills, probates, trusts, and guardianships. Mariah shares the complexities of probate administration, the importance of comprehensive estate planning, and the…
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Topsail Young Professionals
Guest: Alexis Siebert, Co-Founder of the Topsail Young Professionals, shares her journey from Winston-Salem to Topsail, and talks about how she and a few friends turned the challenges of networking in a new town into an exciting opportunity to collaborate with the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of...
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Sea Green Natural Cleaning
Guest: Cathy Mails, Owner of Sea Green Natural Cleaning and #1 Best Selling Author of The Detox Dwelling: A Practical Guide to Nontoxic Cleaning, shares how growing up helping her family manage rentals in Connecticut led to a natural cleaning business in North Carolina that’s making homes…
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Bonus Episode - Hidden Ships Tasting with Owner, Andy Szwejbka
Special Bonus Episode: an exclusive tasting experience at Hidden Ships Distillery, led by co-owner Andy Szwejbka. Andy takes us on a flavorful journey through their award-winning spirits, from their meticulously filtered vodka to their bold barrel-rested rum and sherry-finished bourbon. Book your...
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Hidden Ships Distillery
Guests: Andy & Amy Szwejbka, the husband-and-wife Owners of Hidden Ships Distillery From their RV adventures across the U.S. to launching their Kickstarter-funded dream, they share their journey to creating a beautifully decorated, pre-prohibition-inspired cocktail lounge with award-winning…
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Beach Shop & Grill - Friends of James Beard Event
Special Event Episode from September 28th, 2024: An Evening in Coastal North Carolina, a Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner at Beach Shop & Grill in Topsail Beach, North Carolina Guest: Executive Chef Jim Foss of Beach Shop & Grill reveals the magic behind “An Evening in Coastal North…
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Salty Turtle Cycling Club and their Haunted Hundred Bike Ride
Guest: Jill Schiffelbein, Club Board Member and Chairperson of the Haunted Hundred, shares all you need to know about the Cycling Club and their Annual Haunted Hundred Bike Ride, an exciting fundraiser supporting the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. Interested in joining...
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Acton Academy Topsail
Guests: Nick and Jessica Bahr, husband and wife Owners of Acton Academy Topsail, introduce a revolutionary approach to learning. Are you familiar with Disruptive Education? Imagine a school without traditional teachers. Instead, they have guides who answer students’ questions with more questions,...
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Saltwater Collection
Guest: Faith Teasley, Photographer and Author, shares her brand, Saltwater Collection, featuring her stunning debut coffee table book, “Saltwater: Coastal Carolina”, a decade-long labor of love that captures the entire North Carolina coastline, from the picturesque Brunswick Islands to the…
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Blue Ridge Boutique
Guest: Simran Canterberry, Owner of the Blue Ridge Boutique Dreaming of one day owning a “boutique by the sea” as a little girl growing up in West Virginia to realizing that dream in Surf City, North Carolina, Simran has managed to balance motherhood, a thriving online business, and the opening…
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Salt Marsh Market
Guests: Garrett and Brandy Shaver, husband and wife Owners of Salt Marsh Market, their unique Surf City shop in the popular Triton Village. They offer NC craft beer in the bottle and on tap, wine and refreshing wine slushies, coffee, organic smoothies, the BEST shakes made from gelato, Grab & Go...
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Funky Fins: Eco Education For Curious Minds
Guest: Chris Lener, the Marine Biologist and Educator behind Funky Fins: Eco Education for Curious Minds. Chris shares her journey from the Jersey Shore to North Carolina, detailing the education and teaching experiences that led to the engaging adventures she now offers in the Topsail area. From...
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TRUE Word, Faith for LIFE! with Dr. Shawn Greener
Guest: Dr. Shawn Greener, theologian, author and host of the TRUE Word, Faith for Life! podcast. Dr. Greener's incredible journey includes a distinguished career in the US Navy, law enforcement, CIA, and leading an executive protection firm. He is an expert in terrorism, counterterrorism…
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Surf City Jet Ski & Watersports
Guests: Houston and Katie Lowder, husband and wife owners of Surf City Jet Ski & Watersports! Their business offers summertime fun with jet ski rentals for freestyle riding, guided jet ski adventure tours, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Learn more and book your adventure at...
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Ocean City Jazz Festival
Guest: Mr. Kenneth Chestnut, resident and the son of one of the Ocean City’s founders, shares the history of Ocean City and explains how the Jazz Festival started and why it’s “jazz with a higher purpose”. The Ocean City Jazz Festival has Grammy-nominated performers and promises unique…
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Web Designs Your Way
Guest: Evelyn Wheeler, co-owner of Web Designs Your Way with her husband Chad, offering essential digital services, including web design, maintenance, security, and social media management. Web Designs Your Way provides flexible, interest-free payment plans and exceptional customer service…
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Part 2 | Saltwater Resort, The Hive, and Cape Fear Ventures
Guest: Richard Stroupe, Serial Entrepreneur and Venture Capitalist In Part 2, we discuss how and why Richard dove even deeper into the hospitality industry with his new hotel in downtown Wilmington - a luxe little haven called The Hive. It has 15 uniquely decorated suites with an artistic, urban...
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Part 1 | Saltwater Resort, The Hive, and Cape Fear Ventures
Guest: Richard Stroupe, Serial Entrepreneur and Venture Capitalist Dr. Richard Stroupe talks about his second Saltwater property, Saltwater Resort. He shares the hurdles he’s faced and subsequent delays with this project, the similarities and differences between the two properties, and the...
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John Formica, The "Ex Disney Guy"
Guest: John Formica, the “Ex Disney Guy”, known as "America’s Customer Experience Coach," and a sought-after speaker and business coach who draws on his extensive experience with Disney to help organizations create magical customer experiences and dynamic workplace cultures. He offers insights…
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Shaka Taco, Ironclad Golf & Beer Garden, and More!
Guests: Chef Steve Christian and Surfer Cody Leutgens, owners of Shaka Taco! The pair share a series of hilarious and nostalgic stories that will keep you laughing. The conversation highlights their entrepreneurial journey, beginning with a modest investment of $5,000 each at the Surf City…
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Tiki Tours
Guest: Captain Alex, owner of Tiki Tours in Surf City, North Carolina. He has 3 boats, including the iconic "Tiki Queen" ready to take you and yours out to enjoy the water, shelling, wildlife, and more. And how would you like to throw your next party out on the water with live music and dancing?…
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Pender Pelvic Health and Therapy Services
Guests: Dr. Amanda and Ben Knauff, the husband and wife team behind Pender Pelvic Health and Therapy Services, specializing in pelvic health care for all ages. Beyond general physical therapy, they tackle distinctive pelvic health challenges, providing valuable insights and solutions for symptoms...
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The Listening Room at Upstairs Hampstead
Guest Host Trudy Solomon welcomes Danielle Coleman of Upstairs Hampstead back to Topsail Insider to discuss the latest addition to her "For the Community, By the Community" Venue. Danielle has collaborated with local business owner and music enthusiast, Jason Simas, to introduce The Listening…
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Missiles & More Museum and the Historical Society of Topsail Island
Guests: Laurette Gordon, the Executive Director of the Missiles and More Museum, and Cindy Scaparrotti, the President of the Historical Society of Topsail Island. The Historic Assembly building in Topsail Beach was NOT for the assembly of people - it was for the assembly of missiles! And the…
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Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar - Surf City
Guest: Beverly Simas, Co-Owner of Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar in Surf City with her husband, Jason Simas, talking about their awesome steamed and raw Oysters and Clams, a delicious variety of Shrimp, their Shuckin’ Cocktails and Oyster Shooters, and menu items for the non-seafood lovers as well!...
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Outer Sky Imaging
Guest: Rich Surace, Owner of Outer Sky Imaging, offering drone and hand-held photography and videography for private and commercial real estate and construction progression, as well as full commercial production for local businesses. Rich also uses Automated Visual Home Inspection using…
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The Daily Grind, UnWINEd, and More!
Guest: Jeremy Shugarts, Co-Owner with his wife and children of several business in Surf City and Hampstead: The Daily Grind, Thread FX, Shoreline Party Rentals, and Shugarts Family Properties. Unwined is permanently closed now but be sure to check out their new dining venture on Topsail Island,...
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The Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism
Guest: Tammy Proctor, Executive Director of the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, sharing the many ways the Chamber serves local businesses, nonprofits, residents, and visitors of our beautiful beach towns from Sneads Ferry down to Scotts Hill. Location: 13775 NC Hwy 50, Ste…
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Surf City Line, Turtle Shell Properties, and Island Inn
Guest: Jeff Peterson, Co-Owner of Surf City Line, Turtle Shell Properties, and the Island Inn motel - all on Topsail Island. Surf City Line (910) 541-0062 2112 N New River Dr Surf City, NC 28445 Website, Facebook, and Instagram Turtle Shell Properties (910) 636-7377 Email:...
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Alpha Osteopractic
Guest: Dr. Brittany Forbes, Owner and Therapist at Alpha Osteopractic, with specialized training and expertise in neuromusculoskeletal care, offering tailored, one-on-one, premium services aimed at restoring your health and enhancing functionality. Dr. Forbes offers Spine and Extremity...
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Home Organization by Debbie
Guest: Debbie Bruen, Professional Home Organizer who tackles decluttering, organizing, and "rightsizing" with discretion, kindness, and humor. She also discusses her missionary work in Africa and her journey into the Home Organization profession. Phone: (919) 435-7868 Website:...
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Dyno Digital
Guest: Colin Pemberton, Owner of Dyno Digital Colin understands the challenges of being a one-person operation or managing a small team while juggling multiple responsibilities. He's here to offer a solution that could transform your business. He's developed cutting-edge software that streamlines...
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Share the Table
Guest: Dawn Ellis, Founder and Executive Director of Share the Table, a wonderful nonprofit organization located in Hampstead, North Carolina, servicing folks experiencing food insecurity or inaccessibility. Share the Table provides a Food Choice Pantry, Hot Community Meals and Fellowship, and...
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Safe Haven of Pender & Duplin Counties
Guest: Dr. Tracey Ray, the Executive Director of Safe Haven of Pender & Duplin Counties. Safe Haven is a non-profit organization committed to assisting individuals facing domestic abuse, offering support at every stage – before, during, and after leaving a dangerous situation. Crisis Line: (910)...
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Vital Wellness
Guest: Catherine Kittrell, owner of Vital Wellness (previously known as Assure Wellness Group Coastal Carolina), to discuss Hormone Replacement Therapy, fillers, and Botox. Surf City Address: 95 H2O Place, Hampstead, NC 28443 Website: https://www.vitalhealthvitalwellness.com/ Phone: (740) 215…
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Topsail Insider, LLC!
To celebrate forming an LLC, I decided to record an episode explaining all there is to know about Topsail Insider: why I started podcasting and interviewing business owners, the new series coming out in 2024, the Topsail Insider website and “Send a Voicemail” feature, how to participate and vote…
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A Clean Water Company
UPDATE (September 2026): This episode was originally published in November 2023. Some business and contact information mentioned in the episode may no longer be current. A Clean Water Company's original website is no longer active, and we have been unable to confirm the company's current…
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Above Topsail and JW Portrait Studio
Guest: Jeff Wenzel, former Mayor of Holly Ridge, North Carolina, and owner of Above Topsail and JW Portrait Studio, discussing drone photography, the establishment of Above Topsail, and the launch of his portrait studio, canvas printing, and custom framing business. Location: 301 US Hwy 17 South,...
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Upstairs Hampstead
Join me for a conversation with Danielle Coleman Payne, owner of Upstairs Hampstead in Hampstead, North Carolina! She has created a space that not only hosts events but sparks creativity and builds community. Upstairs Hampstead is more than just a venue, it's an experience and a hub for...
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Wilmington Series - Cape Fearless Extreme
Guest: Ron England, co-owner of Cape Fearless Extreme Aerial Adventures and Paintball Park, discussing the Cape Fearless aerial obstacle courses for all ages and skill levels as well as their outdoor paintball arena. Cape Fearless Extreme 1571 Neils Eddy Rd Riegelwood, NC 28456 Phone: (910)...
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High Caliber Firearms Training & Education
Guest: Heather Allen, owner of High Caliber Firearms Training and Education, and a Certified Concealed Carry and NRA Handgun Instructor, discussing firearm safety and training and her new book. Phone: (562) 331-3033 Email: [email protected] Find her also on Instagram at highcaliber_nc...
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Restored Coffee - Now based in Wilmington
Guest: Rini Hermawan, a young entrepreneur who transformed a vintage camper into a thriving mobile coffee shop - Restored Coffee Website: restoredcoffeeco.com Email: [email protected] Phone: (910) 660-1224 Facebook: Restored Coffee Co Instagram: restoredcoffeeco Editor: Jim Mendes-Pouget |...
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Coastal Home Store
Guest: Jill Clark, the owner of the Coastal Home Store, discussing her beautiful products, Seasonal Style Boxes, and the Style Services she and her team offer. At the time of the interview, Coastal Home Store was located in a cute little cottage in Hampstead but has now relocated to Surf City.…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Planning a trip to Topsail Island? Topsail Insider helps visitors discover more of what the Greater Topsail area of North Carolina has to offer—beyond our beautiful beaches.
Through conversations with local business owners and nonprofit leaders, you’ll discover places to eat, shop, stay, explore, and have fun, along with helpful services, community resources, and the people who make the area special. The podcast covers Hampstead, Surf City, Topsail Beach, North Topsail Beach, Holly Ridge, Sneads Ferry, and surrounding coastal communities.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another favorite Topsail vacation, Topsail Insider will help you experience the area like an insider. Local residents can discover new favorites close to home, while new and prospective residents can learn more about the community before making their move.
HOSTED BY
Christa Schroeder
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Topsail Insider have?
Topsail Insider currently has 59 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Topsail Insider about?
Planning a trip to Topsail Island? Topsail Insider helps visitors discover more of what the Greater Topsail area of North Carolina has to offer—beyond our beautiful beaches. Through conversations with local business owners and nonprofit leaders, you’ll discover places to eat, shop, stay, explore,...
How often does Topsail Insider release new episodes?
Topsail Insider has 59 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Topsail Insider?
You can listen to Topsail Insider on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Topsail Insider?
Topsail Insider is created and hosted by Christa Schroeder.
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