The Northern OBX Podcast

In Episode 16 of The Northern OBX Podcast, we explore one of the most remarkable natural treasures in Corolla—the Donal C. O'Brien Jr. Audubon Sanctuary at Pine Island. Join Center Director Robbie Fearn as he shares Audubon's mission to conserve and restore the ecosystems that support birds, wildlife, and the delicate habitats of the Northern Outer Banks. Spanning more than 2,600 acres of protected maritime forest, marshes, b...

Surfing has been woven into the fabric of the Northern Outer Banks for generations, and few places have done more to share that passion than Corolla Surf Shop. In Episode 15 of The Northern OBX Podcast, we dive into the story behind one of Corolla's most beloved local businesses, serving visitors and locals alike since 1996. From introducing first-time surfers to the thrill of catching their first wave to providing surfboard, paddl...

In Episode 14 of the Northern OBX Podcast we take a deep dive into H2OBX, a 20-plus-acre water park located in Powells Point, North Carolina, just over the Wright Memorial Bridge. Featuring over 30 attractions—including 8 thrill rides, a FlowRider, a 30,000-square-foot wave pool, and a lazy river—it combines modern resort amenities with a design themed around local legends and Outer Banks history. We talk with Wendy Mur...

Episode 13 of The Northern OBX Podcast features Amy Ford Knoch, owner of The Kind Cup, a beloved coffee shop located inside the historic Parker House in Corolla Village. Amy shares the story behind the creation of The Kind Cup, from learning the art of roasting coffee to building a welcoming space that celebrates community, and creativity. She discusses the unique coffee offerings and the talented local artists whose work is showca...

Episode 12 of The Northern OBX Podcast features ceramic artist Michael Middleton, whose one-of-a-kind work is inspired by the legendary Corolla Wild Horses. Using remaining horsehair collected from the wild horses, Michael creates intricate patterns on handcrafted ceramic bowls through a delicate burn process performed immediately after the pottery is removed from the kiln. The result is stunning artwork that captures both precisio...

Episode 11 of the Northern OBX Podcast features John Wright, owner of Sanctuary Vineyards, who shares the story behind winemaking on the Northern Outer Banks. John discusses how the vineyard began, the unique coastal conditions that shape their grapes, and how Sanctuary Vineyards has grown into one of the region’s premier wineries.

From the early days of planting vines to producing distinctive wines that reflect the character ...

Barbeque is one of North Carolina’s most iconic traditions. Episode 10 of the Northern OBX Podcast features Paul Robinson, the passionate voice and owner behind Currituck BBQ. Paul shares his love for Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue and the rich traditions that define it. From humble beginnings to becoming a must-stop destination on the way to the beaches of the Northern Outer Banks, Currituck BBQ has built a legacy roo...

Episode 9 of the Northern OBX Podcast features Buddy Byrum, owner of Buffalo City Distillery, for a fascinating journey through history, heritage, and handcrafted spirits. Buddy shares the inspiration behind the Buffalo City name and the remarkable story of Buffalo City as a bustling milling town that played a surprising role during the Prohibition era—becoming one of the largest suppliers of spirits at the time. Today, that ...

Episode 8 of The Northern OBX Podcast features Dr. Whitney Knollenberg, Associate Professor at NC State University, for an insightful conversation on sustainable tourism and what it means for The Northern Outer Banks. Dr. Knollenberg explains how balancing visitor experiences with community well-being helps ensure the OBX remains a thriving destination for generations to come. She also shares her personal connection to The Northern...

Episode 7 of the Northern OBX Podcast features Chet Morris, owner of Morris Farm Market in Barco, NC. Chet shares the history of his family’s farm, how the farmers market has become something bigger than just a produce stand, and how local farming traditions continue to shape the community today.

The conversation explores the abundance of farmers markets in the Northern Outer Banks, and how Morris Farm evolved into a place whe...

In this episode of the Northern OBX Podcast, we sit down with Clark Twiddy of Twiddy & Company for an insightful deep dive into the history of Corolla, the Twiddy family legacy, and the evolution of vacation rentals and property management in the Outer Banks. Clark shares how the visitor economy—our regions and North Carolina’s number one economic driver—shapes every aspect of life in the Northern Outer Banks....

Episode 5 of the Northern OBX Podcast features an inspiring and informative conversation with Chris Winter of the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. Chris takes listeners deep into the history of the iconic Corolla Wild Horses, sharing how these remarkable animals have survived and adapted to the ever-changing environment of the Outer Banks. He highlights the horses’ incredible resilience, from their origins on the northern beaches to ...

Step into the heart of the Outer Banks’ maritime legacy with this episode of The Northern OBX Podcast. We’re joined by Chandler Sawyer from the Currituck Maritime Museum, who brings to life the stories of the people and traditions that shaped the Northern Outer Banks.

Chandler explores the region’s deep connection to hunting, fishing, and boatbuilding, revealing how these trades were the foundation of Currituck&rsq...

Step back in time with us on The Northern OBX Podcast as we sit down with Jill Landen, Curator of Whalehead in Historic Corolla Park. In this captivating episode, Jill unlocks the fascinating stories hidden within the gilded walls of this iconic mansion — tales of wealth, love, adventure, and mystery that echo through the decades.

Discover the extraordinary story of Edward and Marie Louise Knight, the affluent couple whose pas...

Episode 2 of the Northern OBX Podcast takes you inside the history and legacy of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Built in 1875, this towering brick beacon helped guide sailors through the dangerous waters of the Outer Banks and still stands as a proud reminder of maritime heritage. In this episode, you’ll hear fascinating details about its construction, preservation, and the stories surrounding it. Tune in to discover why the...

The Northern Outer Banks Podcast kicks off its very first episode with a journey through time. Local historian Barbara Snowden joins us to share her deep knowledge of Currituck’s evolving story, weaving together the past and present in a way that reminds us why this place is so special.

From the days when duck hunting drew visitors from across the country, to the rise of tourism as the backbone of The Northern Outer Banks econ...