Big Blend Radio

Is escorted travel for you? On this episode of Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station "Hey Wanna Go" Travel Show with travel advisor Cheryl Ogle, hear about the good, the bad, and the ugly about escorted travel. See her blog post that outlines it all here: https://heywannago.wordpress.com/2024/04/09/benefits-of-escorted-travel On Big Blend Radio every third Wednesday, Cheryl is a world traveler, accredited travel advisor, and owner of Hey Wanna Go that specializes in travel to Europe and the UK, as well as river and ocean cruises. More: https://heywannago.com/

From the Okavango Delta in Botswana to Zambia and Zimbabwe, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou" podcast highlights some of Linda's amazing adventures in Southern Africa. You can read her story about the Botsawana elephants in Linda's book, "Lost Angel Unleashed," and about her safari adventures on NABBW.org here: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/botswana-highlights-on-the-ultimate-safari/ Follow Linda's adventures at https://lostangeladventures.com/ and learn more about her books at http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ Listen to Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show every 3rd Wednesday at High Noon PST, here on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm3Bmktgu8osUzx2VOF35dgO&feature=shared Photos featured are by Linda Ballou and Tom Schwab.

With National Park Week (April 20-28), Earth Day (April 22), Arbor Day (April 27), Junior Ranger Day (April 27), and Kids to Parks Day (May 18) coming up, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 3rd Tuesday "Go to Natchitoches" show is all the various parks, historic sites and trails, and events you can experience in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Featured guest is K. Nicole Connell, Communication Manager of Natchitoches Convention & Visitors Bureau, who talks about events and destinations such Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Melrose Plantation, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, El Camino Real de las Tejas National Historic Trail, the historic Jefferson Highway, Briarwood Nature Reserve, and Kisatchie National Forest. Founded in 1714, Natchitoches is the original French Colony and oldest settlement in Louisiana. Celebrating a vibrant blend of French, Spanish, African, Native American, and Creole cultures, this charming city is part of the Cane River National Heritage Area and Louisiana’s No Man’s Land. More about Natchitoches and its current events at https://natchitoches.com/ Follow Big Blend Radio's "Go to Natchitoches" show here: http://tinyurl.com/yc8csn8b

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA we discover some of the hidden gems and forgotten stories of Michigan with Amy Piper, author of "Secret Michigan: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure" (Reedy Press). Amy Piper is a freelance travel writer, blogger, and photographer who specializes in luxury and multigenerational travel. She travels through the lens of a food lover and has been to 41 countries and 45 states around the world. A native Michigander, she is also the author of “100 Things to Do in Lansing Before You Die” (Reedy Press) and is published in the book "Midwest Road Trip Adventures." More at https://followthepiper.com/ Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) here: https://www.ifwtwa.org/

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's JO GOES EVERYWHERE! Podcast with travel writer and photographer Jo Clark, we hear all about beautiful and historic Georgetown, South Carolina. Named the Best Coastal Small Town by USA Today in 2018, Georgetown is rich in history, nature and outdoor adventures, good food, and friendly people. READ JO'S ARTICLES ABOUT GEORGETOWN: * RecipesTravelCulture.com: https://tinyurl.com/swpnvvfp * FoodieFlashpacker.com: https://tinyurl.com/ybedf5r5 * SheBuysTravel.com: https://tinyurl.com/y5ez47ef Jo Clark is a travel writer and photographer based on South Carolina’s Grand Strand. She has a thirst for knowledge, history, great food, and wine! Her Big Blend Radio podcast "Jo Goes Everywhere!" airs every 2nd Sunday at 7pm EST. Follow the show on YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yfkjm8sd

From training and setting boundaries to observing body language and building a relationship with your horse, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "ABC's of Horses" equestrian podcast with Christy Wood is all about HORSE BEHAVIOR. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, also exhibiting in jumping and trail. She is a winner in extreme trail obstacle challenges, and is a carded horse show judge with 7 breed associations. Along with being an author and instructor, she is the owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more about Christy, her equine services, and her books, at: https://wdnhorse.com/ The "ABC's of Horses" Podcast with Christy Wood airs every 2nd Saturday. Listen to the latest episodes here: https://shows.acast.com/abcs-of-horses

South Africa offers a unique blend of nature, culture, ocean, and unique thrill-seeking experiences. On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with IFWTWA, travel journalist Bernie van der Linde shares why South Africa is known as "a world in one country," and discusses its diverse landscapes and experiences. Read her article that highlights some of her recommended must-dos when you visit the country: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/must-do-experiences-in-south-africa/ Bernie founded the travel blog https://travelbuddieslifestyle.com/ with her best friend and business partner, Petra, where they share their travel experiences of unique and luxurious destinations. Bernie’s love for exploring has taken her to many exotic locations around the world. Her passion for writing and travel has made her a trusted source of information and inspiration for the discerning traveller looking to explore the world in style. Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) at https://www.ifwtwa.org/ Follow Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Shows with IFWTWA Here: https://shows.acast.com/big-blend-radio-ifwtwa

From the upcoming California Antique Farm Equipment Show (April 19-21, 2024) and next year's famous World Ag Expo (February 2025), to family-friendly attractions and activities, this episode of Big Blend Radio Celebrates Farming and Agriculture in Tulare, California. FEATURED GUESTS: - Donnette Silva Carter, CEO of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce. Visit: http://www.tularechamber.org/ - Megan Lausten from the International Agri-Center. Visit: https://www.internationalagricenter.com/ Tulare is a gateway city to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. The city thrives on agricultural, and is internationally known for the Annual World Ag Expo which is held at the International Agri-Center which also features unique event spaces, and the AgVentures Learning Center for Kids and Ag Museum. Tulare has a charming historic downtown district with a beautiful series of murals, and is also home to the Tulare Outlet Shopping Center, and Tulare Historic Museum.

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Thursday “New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Association” Show features innkeeper Kathy Hiatt, who owns and runs the historic Bottger Mansion of Old Town with her husband Steve, plus assistant innkeeper Jake Dunlap. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this romantic Bed & Breakfast is the perfect home base for an amazing variety of activities. Bottger Mansion features easy access to any area destination, comfortable accommodations, and modern amenities. From hot air ballooning and hiking, to wine tasting and sampling regional cuisine, visiting museums and gardens, and experiencing the arts and entertainment of the local cultures, as well as shopping for items unique to New Mexico, you’ll find there is never a shortage of things to do in Albuquerque. More: https://bottger.com/ Stay New Mexico True and Visit: https://www.nmbba.org/

If you've ever known and loved a dog, it's not hard to understand why they're dubbed "[human’s] best friend." But they're often so much more – our confidants, our teachers and even our healers. This episode of Big Blend Radio features Moth StorySLAM winner Anne Abel who discusses her new memoir, "Mattie, Milo, and Me" (She Writes Press, April 2024). The book shares the central role her dogs played in her healing journey as a survivor of parental abuse, and severe depression. Hear how she unwittingly rescues Milo, a dog with serious aggression issues, and finds herself unable to give up on him. Milo is dangerous, and Anne would never do anything to endanger her sons – but she also believes that everyone deserves a second chance. More: https://anneabelauthor.com/ It's the perfect podcast conversation to celebrate National Pet Day (April 11) and Canine Compassion Month (April).

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Wednesday "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward features Reginald “Reggie” Reed who discusses some of his life story that's shared in his True Crime memoir, "The Day My Mother Never Came Home" It's an emotional rollercoaster as he recounts the unimaginable tragedy that shook his world at just six years old. From the heart-wrenching murder of his mother to the shocking revelation 35 years later, that his own father “may” have been behind it all. This is a story of perseverance, resilience, and finding strength in the face of continued unspeakable darkness. The memoir is avaiable for pre-order now. More at https://www.rlreed.com/ For more about Books Forward, visit https://booksforward.com/

It's all about what to experiences on Whidbey and Camano Islands on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Tuesday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA. Featured guest is Inge Morascini who talks about the area's nature and outdoor adventures, farms and regional flavors, history and cultural arts, seasonal events, and unique lodging destinations. Located in the middle of Puget Sound, Whidbey and Camano Islands are an easy drive from Seattle. A great antidote for big city pressures, these rural islands feature wide-open beaches, scenic vistas, outdoor adventures, great art, fine dining, and more. See: https://whidbeycamanoislands.com/ For more about the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) visit https://www.ifwtwa.org/

Ever since two Byrds left the “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” mothership over 50 years ago, The Burrito Brothers have been evolving and putting out wonderful albums. This episode of Big Blend Radio features Chris P. James, lead vocalist and keyboardist, who talks about the legendary history of The Burrito Brothers (aka The Flying Burrito Brothers), and their latest album, "Together." The musicians in today’s Burrito Brothers group, who have been together since 2009, include Chris P. James (keys/lead vocals), Tony Paoletta (pedal steel), Peter Young (drums) and Steve Allen (guitar). They have performed and recorded numerous notable previous works of their own and with countless other artists. More at https://www.theburritobrothers.net/

This episode of Big Blend Radio features filmmakers Brian Lindstrom and Andy Brown who discuss their new documentary "Lost Angel: The Genius of Judee Sill." The film provides an intimate look at one-of-a-kind singer-songwriter from 1970s Los Angeles, Judee Sill. It charts her life from a troubled adolescence of addiction, armed robbery and prison through her meteoric rise in the music world and early tragic death. Featuring Linda Ronstadt, Jackson Browne, David Crosby, Graham Nash, Fleet Foxes, David Geffen, JD Souther, Big Thief, Weyes Blood, Tim Page and more. Executive Producers include Maya Hawke and Cheryl Strayed. "Lost Angel: The Genius of Judee Sill" will be released theatrically in New York (IFC Center), Los Angeles (Laemmle Noho), Portland (Cinema 21) and key cities on April 12, 2024 with a VOD release on all major platforms in the US and Canada. Images and trailer featured on the podcast are courtesy of Greenwich Entertainment.

April marks National Stress Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the pressures we face and how they impact our lives. This episode of Big Blend Radio's SOUL DIVING SUNDAY Show with transformational life coach Shelley Whizin focuses on how to navigate stress so you can find joy amidst life's challenges. Read her article that shares insight and advice, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/finding-joy-amidst-lifes-challenges/ SHELLEY WHIZIN is the founder and CEO of the Soul Diving Institute™ and author of "What Do You Bring to the Table? A Savory, Sensory and Inspirational Guide to Living a Yummy Delicious Life." Keep up with her here: https://www.shelleywhizin.com/ Tune into Big Blend Radio's "Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley" show every first Sunday here: http://tinyurl.com/2bjbectk

Celebrate the Sounds of Spring with episode of Big Blend Radio's BIG DAILY BLEND Podcast with award-winning vocalist and composer Johnny Schaefer. Enjoy this conversation covering music and hope, plants, and nature, and check out the two music playlists below. Johnny Schaefer co-hosts the Big Daily Blend podcast every 1st Sunday. Keep up with him and his music at https://hearjohnny.com/ SOUNDS OF SPRING MUSIC PLAYLIST * YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGHUZITwHVJLIl6mJHDMb_N9unz4yJEZu&feature=shared * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0JDate0bO5TwBvriu2RYdM?si=c1d9adf98445401d ROSY MELODIES MUSIC PLAYLIST: * YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGHUZITwHVJI2B3x7TpfyPhTqUcJ9RP1M&feature=shared * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4791fdvNHyuipXoNlER0bA?si=c1748b7eda7e4412

This episode of Big Blend Radio with travel writer Linda Kissam, "Food Wine & Shopping Diva," embarks on a journey through the exquisite offerings of DANCIN Vineyards. Join us as we delve into the world of their elegant Barbera, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay wines with winemaker Chris Jiron. Nestled in the scenic Rogue Valley of Oregon, DANCIN Vineyards has distinguished itself for producing wines of exceptional quality capturing the essence of the region’s terroir and the dedication of the winemaking craft. Learn more by reading Linda's winetasting article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/exploring-sophistication-with-dancin-vineyards/ And visit DANCIN Vineyards online at https://www.dancin.com/ Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every first Saturday. Follow her podcasts here: https://tinyurl.com/3r9wmudu Follow Diva Linda's adventures here: https://allingoodtaste.info/

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Friday "Toast to The Arts & Parks" Show with the National Parks Arts Foundation features Carissa "Lucky" Garcia, the Spring 2024 NPAF artist-in-residence in Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Carissa “Lucky” Garcia is an Indigenous/Chicana writer, performing artist, community organizer, anti-oppression educator and Indigenous Justice advocate. She is a founding member of the La Resistencia publishing press and poetry collective amplifying LGBTQ+ voices of color. Carissa’s storytelling communicates ideas that focus on her experience as an Iraq War veteran, Native American culture, love, politics, and her appreciation for comic books and science fiction. Her work has been featured at the University of Missouri Latinx Graduate Program, Rhode Island School of Design, UMKC Women of Color Leadership Conference, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Flatland KC, Prescott College, Redline Contemporary Arts Center, Dairy Arts Center, Denver Art Museum, and on the streets all across America. Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation's unique artist residency programs in parks across the country at https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ Learn more about Chaco Culture National Historical Park at https://www.nps.gov/chcu/index.htm

In time to plan for National Park Week (April 20-28), Earth Day (April 22), Junior Park Ranger Day (April 27), and Kids to Parks Day (May 18), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Podcast focuses on park and outdoor experiences in Tulare County. Hear about the region's giant sequoia trees, waterfalls, and wildflowers, along with picnics and cultural celebrations in beautiful community parks, preserves, gardens, and more. Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake. Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include Sintia Kawasaki-Yee - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, and Suzanne Bianco - Visit Visalia. Plan your visit with these websites mentioned in the podcast: - Sequoia Tourism Council: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ - Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: * https://www.nps.gov/seki/index.htm * https://nps.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/index.html?appid=9f33fa32af394a129b0b548429dced01 * https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/road-construction.htm

From National Jelly Bean Day to International Viognier Day and Earth Day, it's all about Spring Flings with Wine on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wine Time with Peggy" podcast. Hear about spring in the LVD Winery vineyard, Peggy's wine term of the month, and special events and celebrations at the tasting room. Of course, we always chat about seasonal food and wine pairings, and Peggy's latest recipe. This month it's a vibrant Caribbean Salad with Honey Lime Dressing - see: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/caribbean-salad-with-honey-lime-dressing/ Featuring Peggy Fiandaca, who along with her winemaker husband Curt Lawrence Dunham owns and operates LDV Winery in Arizona, "Wine Time with Peggy" airs every 1st Wednesday at 4pm PT / 7pm ET. Follow the podcast here: http://tinyurl.com/42j5zucj Learn more about LDV Winery at https://ldvwinery.com/