The Imagine Moore Podcast

Sam Ragan’s Legacy: A Conversation with Lewis Bowling

What happens when one man believes deeply in writers, art, and the power of a small town?You get a legacy that still shapes Moore County today.
In this episode of The Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young sits down with author and historian Lewis Bowling, the writer behind Sam Ragan: North Carolina’s Literary Godfather. Together, they explore the remarkable life and influence of Sam Ragan — longtime editor of The Pilot, North Carolina Poet Laureate, trusted friend of the Boyd family, and a driving force behind the arts culture that continues to thrive in Moore County.
Lewis shares how he began his writing journey, what it takes to publish 13 traditionally published books, and why preserving local history matters more than ever — especially for communities built on relationships, creativity, and shared stories.
 A special moment in this episode:You’ll hear Sam Ragan himself, reading one of his own poems — recorded years ago — allowing his voice and words to echo once again through the place he loved so deeply.
This conversation is a love letter to Moore County, to storytelling, and to the idea that one passionate voice can shape generations.
 Whether you’re a writer, a small business owner, a history lover, or simply someone who cares about this community — this episode is for you.
And as always… keep imagining Moore.

Seeing WOW Moments with Lucy Wellmaker

What if the most meaningful moments of your life weren’t the big, dramatic ones… but the quiet, everyday moments you’ve been moving too fast to notice?
In this episode of The Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young sits down with Lucy Wellmaker — published author of Inspired by the WOW Moments of Life, Board Certified Life Coach, and all-around steady presence — for a conversation that feels less like an interview and more like being truly heard.
Lucy is a genuinely kind woman who listens deeply — to people, to stories, and to the subtle moments that shape who we are. With over 15 years of experience helping others grow personally and professionally, she shares how small shifts in awareness can lead to big changes in wellbeing, relationships, and even business success.
You’ll hear about:• What “WOW Moments” really are and why they matter• How Lucy’s Wheel of Life Guide & Worksheet helps people find clarity and balance• Why deep listening is one of the most powerful tools we have• How life coaching can support both personal growth and professional life• And how Lucy’s motto — Wellbeing. Welldoing. Wellmaker. — comes to life every day
Whether you’re feeling stuck, searching for balance, or simply craving a thoughtful, uplifting conversation, this episode will leave you feeling encouraged and seen.
✨ Learn more about Lucy’s coaching, blog, and free resources at lucywellmaker.com
And as always: Imagine Moore.

Where Fairness Meets Purpose: Judge Beth Tanner

What happens when a childhood cancer survivor, a Romance Languages major, and a champion for teens grows up to become one of the most dedicated District Court Judges in Moore and Hoke Counties?You get Judge Beth Tanner — a woman whose story is as compelling as her commitment to justice.
In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, host Rose Young sits down with Judge Tanner for a conversation that moves from deeply human to unexpectedly funny, offering listeners a rare look behind the robe.
You’ll hear about:✨ The surprising path that led her from literature to law✨ How surviving cancer shaped her compassion and resilience✨ Why she invests so fiercely in teenagers through Teen Court, debate, and mock trial✨ What District Court really handles and why it impacts all of us✨ Practical wisdom for small-business owners✨ The heart and philosophy that guide her decisions on the bench✨ And yes — the Victorian home with gavels carved into the staircase
Whether you're a longtime Moore County resident, a new neighbor, a parent, an entrepreneur, or simply someone who loves a good story about purpose and perseverance, this episode will leave you inspired and proud of the leadership in our community.
Stay to the end for the Firecracker Round and a custom jingle written just for Judge Tanner.
💜 Want to learn more about Judge Beth Tanner’s work and her 2026 re-election campaign?Visit https://bethtannerforjudge.com/ to explore her service, values, and vision for Moore & Hoke Counties.
As Judge Tanner often reminds us, “You change your whole life by voting.”A simple action — a powerful impact.
 

Count Your Blessings: A Holiday Edition with Heart

In this special Holiday Edition of The Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young invites you to slow down, breathe, and savor the season of gratitude with stories, laughter, and reflections from near and far.
Rose begins with the holiday traditions we all cherish — from family recipes to the great potato debates — and takes you back to one unforgettable Thanksgiving overseas, where a Dalmatian, a bowl of mashed potatoes, and the now-famous line “Don’t tell Doris!” became a lifelong family motto.
She explores the difference between the family you’re given and the family you choose, offers wisdom on surviving holiday personalities with Mel Robbins’ “Let Them” philosophy, and reminds us to find joy in the little everyday blessings that make life beautiful.
You’ll also get a guided tour of Moore County’s most magical holiday traditions, including Weymouth Wonderland on December 6, the shimmering beauty of the NC Harp Ensemble’s “Sounds of the Season” performance at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, and the century-old Thanksgiving morning tradition of the Blessing of the Hounds.
And to close, Rose leaves you with a heartfelt musical moment as she sings the first verse of “Count Your Blessings.”
Warm, funny, nostalgic, and filled with Moore County pride, this episode is the perfect way to step into the holiday season — grounded, grateful, and inspired.
 

Harmony, Humor, and Heart: The Music of Life with Anne Dorsey

In this lyrical episode of The Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young sits down with Anne Dorsey, Director of the Moore County Choral Society, to explore the soundtrack of a life devoted to music.
From the laughter of classroom rehearsals to the soaring crescendos of community performances, Anne shares the moments that have shaped her journey — the funny stories, the “aha” breakthroughs, and the joy of guiding voices from tentative to triumphant.
As the Choral Society celebrates its 51st season, Anne reflects on the beauty of shared harmony and why keeping music education alive in our schools is essential for the heart of every community.
You’ll hear about the upcoming concert on December 14, the passion behind the choir, and the legacy that continues to echo through generations of singers.
So take a deep breath, open your heart, and listen in; because when voices rise together, the whole world sounds a little brighter.
“Raise your voice, let music fly,Under Carolina’s open sky.Fifty-one seasons, harmony’s door,The Choral Society—singing Moore!” 
Don’t miss the upcoming Concert: December 14, with a theme of LOVE, held at Sandhills Community College at 7:00 PM, purchase tickets at https://ticketmesandhills.com/
Learn more or support the Moore County Choral Society at www.moorecountychoralsociety.orgSubscribe and share The Imagine Moore Podcast: imaginemoorepodcast25.podbean.com

Leadership Defined - The Paula Crocker Story

In this episode of The Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young sits down with Paula Crocker, Senior Vice President and Business Development Officer at Fidelity Bank in Southern Pines — a woman whose journey embodies strength, service, and success.
From her early days at Pinecrest High School to serving in the United States Marine Corps, Paula’s story is one of dedication and drive. With over 30 years in banking, she’s not only mastered her profession but has become a pillar in the community — serving on the board of the Sandhills/Moore Coalition for Human Care, as a Kiwanian, and as a Chamber Ambassador.
In this inspiring conversation, Paula shares what she’s learned about leadership, balance, and building a meaningful life — all while giving back to the community she loves. Her story reminds us that discipline and compassion can coexist beautifully — and that true success comes from serving others.
 Tune in, be inspired, and imagine what’s possible when you lead with purpose.
 Subscribe and share The Imagine Moore Podcast at: https://imaginemoorepodcast25.podbean.com/
 

Haunted Heart of Moore County: Ghosts of Weymouth, Carthage Jail & More

Haunted Moore County – A Halloween Special
In this special Halloween morning edition of The Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young dares to tell Moore County’s most chilling ghost stories — safely in the daylight, of course!
From the haunted halls of the Weymouth Center and the echoing cells of the Old Carthage Jail, to the tragic mystery of the Princess of Pinehurst and the whispering pines of Bethesda Cemetery, this episode uncovers the haunted side of our hometown’s history.
Along the way, Rose shares her own unexplainable experiences — books flying across the room, a television that turns on by itself, and that unforgettable moment when the room began to spin while she lay perfectly still.
It’s storytelling with a shiver — rich in history, local legend, and that Southern charm that keeps Moore County’s mysteries alive.
👻 Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you’ll never look at our local landmarks quite the same way again.
🎧 Listen now, subscribe, and share this special episode with friends and neighbors — and help us keep the stories, the laughter, and yes, the chills coming your way every week.
👉 Subscribe and share today at imaginemoorepodcast25.podbean.com
 

From Game Warden to House Candidate: Mark Dutton’s Journey of Service

In this episode of The Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young sits down with Major Mark Dutton, a lifelong Moore County native, retired Wildlife Officer, and candidate for North Carolina House District 78.
With over 30 years of service in law enforcement and community leadership, Mark shares his journey from his early days in the Sandhills to leading statewide training and enforcement operations for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Together, Rose and Mark discuss integrity, mentorship, and what it means to serve with purpose — both in uniform and in the community.
Listeners will hear about Mark’s strong ties to Moore County, his dedication to youth coaching, his leadership philosophy, and why he’s stepping forward once again — this time to represent his community in Raleigh.
🎧 Plus, stay tuned to the end for Mark’s custom Imagine Moore Podcast jingle — written just for him!
Check him out at: https://mark4nchouse.com/
Please like and subscribe @: https://imaginemoorepodcast25.podbean.com/

Connecting Businesses & Communities with Chris Foster

In this episode of the Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young sits down with Chris Foster, the publisher of Pinehurst Neighbors Magazine and owner of FosDog Marketing & Advertising.
Chris shares how his family’s move from Michigan to the Sandhills led him to create meaningful connections between local businesses and residents through Pinehurst Neighbors—a hyper-focused, multi-channel marketing solution that blends “new print” with targeted digital outreach.
With over 20 years of experience in marketing and 13 years as a business owner, Chris has become a trusted connector in the community—helping businesses get found both online and offline. He also opens up about life outside the office: family, golf, DIY projects, and his dream of whisking his wife Stacy away to London or Paris one day.
 Tune in for a great conversation about marketing, community building, and making connections that matter right here in Moore County.
 Connect with Chris Foster:Email: chris@fosdogmarketing.com
Website: www.fosdogmarketing.comPinehurst Neighbors Magazine: www.bestversionmedia.com/pinehurstneighbors
 Subscribe and share at imaginemoorepodcast25.podbean.com
 

From Courtroom to Classroom: Ann Petersen’s Guide to Authentic College Essays

Finding Your Voice with Ann Petersen 
In this episode of The Imagine Moore Podcast, host Rose Young sits down with Ann Petersen, founder of Craft of the College Essay, to talk about helping students discover and share their authentic voices.
Ann’s journey is remarkable: from the courtroom as a trial attorney to more than two decades as a beloved AP teacher and nationally ranked debate coach, to now guiding students through one of the most challenging parts of the college application—the essay.
Ann also shares her passion for community service, her experience serving on the Southern Pines Town Council, and the wisdom she’s gained along the way.
You’ll hear inspiring stories, practical insights, and even Ann’s own playful Imagine Moore jingle 🎶 after the quick-fire round.
👉 Learn more about Ann’s work at craftofthecollegeessay.com🎧 Subscribe and share at: https://imaginemoorepodcast25.podbean.com/