What do fishing piers, barber shops, tea rooms, and libraries have in common?

They’re all third places: spaces outside home and work that help us build relationships, feel a sense of belonging, and stay connected.

This summer, a team of young people from Carteret County came together to explore these vital spaces, interviewing local business owners, librarians, artists, and each other. The result is Coastal Connections, a moving, often funny, and inspiring podcast episode on community, connection, and what it means to belong.

EPIC Carteret is entering an exciting new chapter. In this one-minute trailer, Autumn Ware introduces Emily Carter as the new host of the beloved community podcast and the first author to debut under the EPIC Carteret Books imprint. With her memoir A Spork in the Road launching this spring, Emily brings her deep roots, engaging voice, and heartfelt storytelling to the forefront—continuing the mission to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and connection that define coastal North Carolina. Subscribe and stay tuned. The next story begins now.

In this episode, we explore how empowered women create ripple effects that strengthen and uplift their communities. Featuring insights from Carolina Women’s Collective founders Silvana Botta, Jillian Lister, and Booth Parker, along with Brandy Bell, director of the Carteret Community College Small Business Center, we uncover the transformative impact of fostering connections, supporting one another, and creating opportunities for growth. Through inspiring stories from conference attendees and local leaders, we celebrate the unique culture of collaboration in Carteret County and the women shaping its future.