Big Blend Radio

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100

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Viva Variety! Hosted by Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, the mother-daughter travel team and publishers of Big Blend Magazines, Big Blend Radio educates, entertains and inspires! Topics include: Music, Books & The Arts; Travel & Recreation; Food & Drink; National Parks & Public Lands; History & Culture; Nature & Environment; Home & Garden; Family & Education; Business & Career; and much more!

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June 16, 2026Episode 393850 min

Exploring Indiana's Amish Country: Craftsmanship, Community & Culture in Shipshewana

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the fascinating culture, traditions, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Amish and Mennonite communities in Shipshewana. From handcrafted furniture and pottery to leatherwork, quilting, dairy farming, and buggy making, Lisa shares her experiences meeting local artisans and learning how family, faith, and community shape daily life in Indiana's Amish Country. Highlights include visits to a traditional buggy maker, conversations about Amish and Mennonite history, and discovering how small businesses thrive through craftsmanship and strong community values. The episode also explores the region's culinary traditions, farming practices, local markets, and unique cultural attractions that offer visitors a deeper understanding of one of America's most distinctive communities. As America approaches its 250th birthday, Amish Country provides a meaningful opportunity to experience traditions, entrepreneurship, and heritage that continue to shape the nation's story. PLAN YOUR VISIT - Shipshewana Visitor Center: https://visitshipshewana.org/ - Menno-Hof Amish & Mennonite Information Center: https://menno-hof.squarespace.com/ - Riverwood Pottery: https://www.riverwood-pottery.com/ - Teaberry Wood Products: https://shopteaberry.com/ - Silver Star Leather: https://www.silverstarleather.com/ KEEP UP WITH LISA - Follow Lisa's Stories: https://writerlisa.com/ - Subscribe to Journey Jukebox: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ - Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 - Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1

June 15, 2026Episode 393731 min

True Farm Girl Adventures: Exploring Rural & Small Town America

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer, columnist, and author Cindy Ladage discusses her new book, "True Farm Girl Adventures," and shares stories celebrating rural America, agricultural heritage, small-town communities, and the people who keep these traditions alive. From antique tractors and agri-tourism experiences to Route 66 road trips, hidden museums, historic figures, county fairs, and unexpected backroad discoveries, Cindy highlights the authentic experiences that connect travelers to America's heartland. As part of National Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Month, this conversation also celebrates the farmers, agricultural traditions, and rural communities that help feed the nation while preserving an important part of America's cultural heritage. The episode also ties into the spirit of America 250, showcasing the stories, landscapes, and local histories that help tell America's ongoing story. LINKS & RESOURCES: - New Book, "True Farm Girl Adventures": https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/2026/05/30/true-farm-girl-adventures-in-a-book-form/ - Story: "My Encounter with James Dean": https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/2020/09/24/my-encounter-with-james-dean/ - Follow Cindy's adventures: https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/ - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ - Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ - Big Blend Radio's "Travel Food & Wine" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

June 14, 2026Episode 393636 min

Beautiful and Historic Beaufort, South Carolina: St. Phillips Island and Hunting Island

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jo Goes Everywhere" Travel Podcast that takes us to the Beaufort area of South Carolina, where travel writer and photographer Jo Clark explored two stunning barrier islands: St. Phillips Island and Hunting Island. Jo shares the story of billionaire conservationist Ted Turner, who once owned St. Phillips Island and built a five-bedroom house there that visitors can actually rent today. She also talks about South Carolina's old-growth forests, the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, the eerie beauty of Boneyard Beach, and the CCC's role in building the state park system. The conversation also covers Civil War and Spanish-American War history, the charm of downtown Beaufort (including where to eat and stay), the Port Royal Cypress Wetlands, and a visit to Pat Conroy's grave near Penn Center, a cornerstone of Gullah history and culture. Plus, wildlife lovers will hear about ospreys, alligators, egrets, pelicans, and more. Read Jo's full article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/st-phillips-island-hunting-island-state-park-sc 📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/ 📲 Follow Jo: https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ | https://recipestravelculture.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/ 🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday at 7pm ET. Listen: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/

June 13, 2026Episode 393525 min

Understanding Horse Zoomies with Christy Wood

It's a big milestone on the Big Blend Radio "ABCs of Horses" Podcast, producer Lisa D. Smith and world champion horse trainer Christy Wood have made it all the way to Z! And Z is for Zoomies, that joyful, full-speed burst of energy every horse owner loves to watch. Christy breaks down what zoomies really mean, how to tell the difference between a happy horse blowing off steam and a stressed or fearful one, and why your horse needs plenty of safe space to really run, stop, and roll. She also covers the role of diet and exercise in managing your horse's energy, how to read body language (especially that tail!), and why you should never try to ride out a bucking or rearing horse — let them get it out of their system first. Plus, toys and enrichment: does your horse want a ball to play with? This wraps up over two years of the "ABCs of Horses" — but don't worry, Lisa and Christy aren't done! Next month, they kick off round two with a special "Get to Know Christy" episode that reflects over all the equestrian lessons learned in the series. Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, extreme trail obstacle champion, author, instructor, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more: https://wdnhorse.com/ 🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com 📖 Check out the NEW ABC'S of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/

June 12, 2026Episode 393435 min

Showcasing Summer in Southeast Michigan: Festivals, Culture & The Arts

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Petula Brown shares some of her favorite summer festivals, cultural and arts experiences across Southeast Michigan. From jazz and Celtic festivals to outdoor art events, aviation history celebration, Pride festivities, and lavender-filled wellness retreats, Petula highlights the people, places, and activities that make Southeast Michigan a rewarding destination for travelers seeking authentic local culture and community connections. The conversation explores communities including Ypsilanti, Chelsea, Dexter, and Milan, showcasing how festivals support local businesses, celebrate heritage, inspire creativity, and encourage healthy outdoor living. Highlights include the Chelsea Sounds & Sights Festival, Dexter Summer Festival, First Fridays in Ypsilanti, the John E. Lawrence Jazz Festival, Celtic Festival celebrations, the Milan Lavender Harvest Festival, Paint Dexter Plein Air Festival, Thunder Over Michigan, and Ipsy Pride. Read Petula Brown's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/southeastern-michigan-summer-festivals About Petula Brown: For more than a decade, Petula has written about wellness, family travel, and multicultural experiences for publications including AAA Michigan, Pathfinders Magazine, Spa Magazine, and Crazy Wisdom Journal. Drawing on her perspectives as a woman of color, parent, technologist, educator, and entrepreneur, she creates immersive travel stories that encourage readers to broaden their horizons and discover meaningful travel experiences. Follow Petula Brown: https://www.facebook.com/PYBJourneys/ Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ Check out the Big Blend Radio "Travel Food & Wine" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

June 12, 2026Episode 393326 min

Meet Glynn Burrows: Your English Connection to Family History & UK Travel

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" series, we chat with one of our longtime expert contributors, Glynn Burrows, who is an historian, genealogist, tour guide, and founder of Norfolk Tours in England. For more than 15 years, Glynn has shared stories that bring England's history, culture, genealogy, and travel experiences to life for Big Blend audiences. In this fun and personal conversation, he talks about family, travel, local communities, lifelong learning, favorite foods, the importance of supporting small businesses, and why meaningful travel is about making genuine connections with people and places. He also shares his philosophy on honesty, following your passions, and making a difference—one "starfish" at a time. You will also learn about Glynn's passion for helping travelers explore England beyond the tourist trail and reconnect with their family history through personalized heritage experiences. LEARN MORE - English Connection: https://englishconnection.uk - Big Blend Media House: https://bigblendmediahouse.com

June 12, 2026Episode 393233 min

Wild, Wonderful Alaska: A Windstar Cruise Through The Last Frontier

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's Quiltripping Travel" Podcast. Travel expert, photographer and host Rose Palmer joins producer Lisa D. Smith from France — where she's in between trips — to share her unforgettable experience aboard Windstar's brand-new Star Seeker on its inaugural Alaska cruise. Unlike the big-ship experience, the Star Seeker's small size unlocked a side of Southeast Alaska most travelers never see. Rose takes us deep into Misty Fjords National Monument by zodiac, up close to the Dawes Glacier in Endicott Arm, and through the authentic streets of Wrangell — one of Alaska's last truly uncrowded towns. She shares wildlife encounters including humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, bald eagles, and even a mother black bear and her cubs in Ketchikan. Along the way, Rose explores the Tongass National Forest — one of Earth's last great coastal temperate rainforests — and reflects on why slow travel is the only way to truly experience Alaska's wild, pristine beauty. 📰 READ ROSE'S ARTCILES: 🔗 Sailing Off the Beaten Path on a Windstar Cruise to Alaska: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/windstar-cruise-to-alaska 🔗 Windstar Star Seeker Review: https://quiltripping.com/windstar-star-seeker-review/ 🔗 Rose's Full Alaska Cruise Article: https://quiltripping.com/windstar-cruise-to-alaska/ 🎙️ Rose Palmer shares her travel adventures every second Thursday on Big Blend Radio. Find her at: https://quiltripping.com https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/rose-palmer-travel-writer-photographer

June 11, 2026Episode 393127 min

Like Snow Before Sun: Author Marianne Rabalais Sulser on Cajun and Acadian Heritage

Big Blend Radio's "Books & Authors Show" with Books Forward welcomes debut novelist Marianne Rabalais Sulser, whose historical novel "Like Snow Before Sun" is out now through Atmosphere Press. Born and raised in central Louisiana and now based in Colorado, Marianne takes us deep into the world of 1750s Nova Scotia and the tragic history of the Acadian expulsion — a story she discovered through her own ancestral research. Marianne shares how tracing her family roots led her to an unexpected and beautiful connection to the Mi'kmaq nation, and how that discovery inspired a novel that is as much about trust, survival, and identity as it is about history. We talk about the difference between Cajun and French Creole culture, the relationship between the Acadians and indigenous nations before the British arrived, the real historical figures who inspired her characters, and why this largely unfictionalized chapter of North American history feels especially timely right now. Plus — what dish best represents the novel? The answer involves fish. And pork. Because Louisiana. Visit https://www.mariannesulser.com and find "Like Snow Before Sun" wherever books are sold.

June 10, 2026Episode 393048 min

Getting to Know Winemaker Dave Specter of Bells Up Winery in Willamette Valley, Oregon

We're heading back to Bells Up Winery in Oregon's Willamette Valley with winemaker and co-owner Dave Specter! In this Big Blend Radio "Getting to Know You" interview, Dave talks about turning a dead Christmas tree farm into a thriving boutique winery, the music-inspired story behind the Bells Up name, rare grapes you won't find anywhere else in the Willamette Valley — including a sparkling Seyval Blanc and a soon-to-be-released Italian variety nearly wiped out in World War II. Plus, Dave answers our 7 Getting to Know You questions — his spirit animal, bucket list, theme song, dinner party nightmares, and strong opinions about heirloom tomatoes! LINKS TO FOLLOW - Learn more about Bells Up Winery: https://bellsupwinery.com - Visit the new Big Blend Media House: https://bigblendmediahouse.com

June 9, 2026Episode 392937 min

Cooking Louisiana: Cajun Culture, Gumbo Secrets & the Spuddy Experience

Get ready for National Herbs & Spices Day (June 10) with this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), featuring Spuddy Faucheux — Cajun cook, instructor, entrepreneur, and owner of the Cajun Cooking Experience in Vacherie, Louisiana. Located right along the historic Jefferson Highway between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Spuddy's place is one of those rare finds that turns a road trip into a memory. Spuddy breaks down Louisiana's renowned cuisine — why gumbo is the ultimate multicultural dish (African okra, French roux, German sausage, Spanish seasoning, and indigenous filé all in one pot), the real difference between gumbo and jambalaya, and why the best seasoning always starts with salt and pepper. Along the way, he shares the story behind his legendary nickname (hint: it involves Sputnik), why he traded 27 years in the restaurant business for cooking classes, and what happens when a UK couple, a pep rally of sixth graders, or an 8-year-old girl walks into his kitchen and takes over. This is Louisiana food culture at its warmest — history, community, storytelling, and a whole lot of flavor! LINKS & RESOURCES - Visit Spuddy: https://www.cajuncookingexperience.com/ - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ - Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ - Big Blend Radio "Food, Wine & Travel" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 - Big Blend Media House: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com