So I re-entered the hobby recently after some time away and things have been positive.  That being said, I have encountered some issues with being unable to set things up with a few providers because I have no references.  Thus we come to the catch-22 of this hobby: one can't see a provider without references and one can't get references without seeing a provider.  Can anyone recommend some newbie friendly providers in the Raleigh/Durham area?

I understand!  

We should chat in DM. I will be in the neighborhood this week.