A place can look like a vacation destination on the surface, but underneath, it can completely reshape the direction of your life. The Outer Banks has that effect on people, and this conversation brings that transformation into focus through the lens of someone who experienced it firsthand. What starts as a simple visit can quietly turn into something much bigger.

Brian Tress joins the conversation as a freelance writer, reporter, and storyteller whose work appears in outlets like the Outer Banks Voice and Milepost. After a career in hospitality consulting, Brian made a life-changing decision to move to the OBX in 2021, where he now spends his time capturing the stories, people, and experiences that define the region from adventure writing to community profiles.

We get into how Brian ended up in writing almost by accident, the interesting people he’s met since landing here, and what it is about this place that really pulls people in. He shares stories from diving offshore wrecks to those quiet early mornings on the beach, and by the end, you start to understand why the Outer Banks isn’t just somewhere people visit. It’s somewhere they don’t quite let go of.

In This Episode:

• [02:59] Brian introduces his work as a freelance writer covering local stories, tourism, and unique experiences.
• [05:54] A single 2021 vacation turns into a permanent move after an unexpected opportunity to buy the house he stayed in.
• [08:22] Brian explains how his outsider perspective gives him a deeper appreciation for the OBX community.
• [10:22] The conversation highlights how the community supports each other and gives newcomers real opportunities.
• [15:33] Brian shares his experience diving shipwrecks off Hatteras and discovering Caribbean-like conditions in OBX waters.
• [19:16] The discussion turns to red wolf conservation efforts and the surprising wildlife found in the area.
• [21:10] Brian reflects on profiling locals with fascinating life transitions, including a former CIA professional turned artist.
• [23:51] The idea of a book featuring “living legends” of the Outer Banks begins to take shape.
• [24:26] Randy shares how the OBX attracts a uniquely diverse and intelligent mix of residents.
• [27:09] Brian talks about learning to surf and stepping into new experiences later in life.
• [29:25] The emotional and almost spiritual connection to the ocean becomes a central theme.
• [30:13] A 95-year-old competitive swimmer becomes one of Brian’s most inspiring interview subjects.
• [32:40] Brian describes his daily ritual of visiting the beach and how it’s become a grounding force.
• [33:43] The beach is framed as both therapeutic and perspective-shifting, offering clarity and calm.
• [34:35] Even during peak season, the Outer Banks maintains a sense of space and quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere.
• [35:10] The myths around sharks are discussed, reinforcing how safe and accessible the ocean really is.
• [36:30] A reflection on how the OBX lifestyle blends nature, community, and personal reinvention.

Resources:

• Beach Road Banter Podcast
• The Outer Banks Voice – Brian Tress
• Kitty Hawk Kites – Brian Tress
• Brian Tress – Instagram