Episodes

Friday Aug 29, 2025
Friday Aug 29, 2025
Celebrate National Sandwich Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Burger Bliss Series, we head into the kitchen (and fire up the grill!) to explore the art of cooking burgers — from creative vegetarian options to turkey, venison, and the classic all-American patty. Along the way, we dig into the joy of cooking, the importance of simplicity, cultural twists on burgers around the world, and even the future of food sustainability.
👉 Listen to Burger Bliss – Part One: https://eat-drink-merry.podbean.com/e/hamburger-happy-hour/
Featured Guests & Recipes:* Angela Laws – Community Manager of TrustedHousesitters.com, on the quest for the perfect vegetarian burger.
* Shelley Whizin – Transformational Life Coach & author of What Do You Bring to the Table?, sharing her Turkey Meatloaf Burger Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/shelleys-savory-and-sweet-turkey-meatloaf-burgers/
* Chef Ivan Flowers – 5-Star Chef & Culinary Instructor, on crafting the perfect patty and his Classic American Hamburger Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/classic-american-burger-recipe/
* Ryan Slough – Travel writer (Wanderers Compass) sharing tips and health benefits of cooking flavorful Venison Burgers: https://www.wandererscompass.com/
More Burger Recipes from the Big Blend Archives:- Peppercorn Crusted Burgers: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/peppercorn-crusted-burgers/ - ShackBurger: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-shackburger/ - Mushroom Provolone Burger: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/mushroom-provolone-burger/ - Vegetarian Italian Herb Burgers: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/viva-la-vegan-happy-hour-party-recipes/ - Ultimate Black Bean Burgers: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/ultimate-black-bean-burgers/
Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Burger Bliss Series02:03 – Exploring Vegetarian Burgers11:09 – Transformational Cooking with Shelley Whizin28:01 – The Joy of Burgers29:11 – Teaching Culinary Skills Through Burgers31:56 – Crafting the Perfect Burger Patty32:36 – Defining the Classic American Burger34:44 – Simplicity in Burger Restaurants36:51 – The Nostalgia of Burgers and Milkshakes39:04 – Cultural Variations of Burgers41:45 – Innovative Vegetarian Burger Options54:31 – The Future of Food: Bioengineering and Sustainability57:11 – Culinary Creativity: Merging Tradition with Innovation1:00:40 – Exploring Venison: Health Benefits and Cooking Techniques1:04:04 – The Art of the Burger: Crafting Deliciousness1:10:03 – Cultural Perspectives on Meat: A Global Journey1:18:32 – Whiskey and Burgers: The Perfect Pairing
🎧 This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s Eat, Drink & Be Merry and Big Daily Blend Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork
🔥 Stay tuned for Part Three of our Burger Bliss Series, where we’ll wrap things up with even more juicy burger fun. 👉 Subscribe to Big Blend Radio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio

Thursday Aug 28, 2025
Thursday Aug 28, 2025
Celebrate the end of American Adventures Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show, we travel to Greenville, Texas, a vibrant community located along the historic Jefferson Highway. Featured guests Stacy Foley (Tourism Manager) and Micah McBay (Community Engagement Director) from Greenville Tourism share what makes this destination a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the “Pines to Palms Highway” from Winnipeg to New Orleans.
Discover Greenville’s thriving arts and culture scene, including the historic Greenville Municipal Auditorium that has hosted world-famous performers, as well as community theater and live music venues. Foodies will love the city’s unique mom-and-pop restaurants, winery, and bustling farmers market, while travelers can stay in chic downtown lofts, cozy treehouses, trusted national brand hotels, and other family-friendly lodging options.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty of parks, trails, and recreational activities, and year-round festivals – like the Festival of the Arts – highlight the creativity and hospitality of the community. Greenville is also known for its budget-friendly travel options, with many free events and attractions that welcome visitors from near and far.
This conversation also highlights how the Jefferson Highway connects communities like Greenville, supporting local tourism, cultural heritage, and regional pride.
🔗 Plan Your Visit to Greenville, Texas: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/
🔗 Learn More about the Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/
🔗 Explore the Upcoming Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: https://jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/
📅 Follow the “Historic Jefferson Highway” Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
On this episode of Big Blend Radio, author Sarah May discusses her inspiring memoir, She Journeys: A Memoir of Heartbreak and Homecoming (She Writes Press, Sept. 9, 2025). Through her personal story, Sarah shares how she overcame heartbreak, trauma, and toxic relationships, ultimately creating a life rooted in freedom, gratitude, and love.
In this heartfelt conversation, Sarah reflects on the importance of nature, rituals, and gratitude in the healing process. She opens up about reclaiming personal power, embracing vulnerability, and building healthy relationships, while encouraging others to take responsibility for their own happiness. By sharing her journey, Sarah hopes to empower listeners to find hope, healing, and renewal in their own lives.
💚 This episode is part of our National Wellness Month and Happiness Happens Month coverage, highlighting the power of resilience, healing, and choosing joy.
Learn more at: www.shejourneys.us
Key Takeaways:- Healing and self-discovery are lifelong journeys shaped by resilience.- Nature, rituals, and gratitude can guide personal transformation.- Building healthy relationships begins with personal growth and boundaries.- Sharing stories creates connection and empowerment.
Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Sarah May and Her Journey04:45 – Life on the Road: The Van Life Experience09:12 – Overcoming Darkness: The Journey of Healing13:38 – Recognizing and Escaping Toxic Relationships18:27 – The Power of Rituals in Healing23:06 – Creating a New Life: From Trauma to Freedom24:37 – Navigating Divorce and Relationships26:29 – Understanding Abuse and Control28:11 – Healing from Trauma and Personal Growth30:02 – Reclaiming Personal Power30:54 – The Healing Power of Nature34:39 – Building Trust in New Relationships36:45 – Gratitude and Personal Responsibility42:51 – Empowering Women Through Healing

Tuesday Aug 26, 2025
Tuesday Aug 26, 2025
In celebration of Family Fun Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show with travel writer Terri Guthrie explores the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa in Texas. From exciting scavenger hunts and seasonal attractions to the resort’s expansive River Bluff water experience and lazy river, Terri highlights why this destination is perfect for multi-generational getaways.
The conversation also covers San Antonio’s rich history, family bonding through shared experiences, gourmet and casual dining options, and luxurious touches like the resort’s golf course. Whether you’re traveling with kids, parents, or grandparents, this is a year-round resort escape that offers something for everyone.
📖 Read Terri’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/multigenerational-getaway-jw-marriott-san-antonio-hill-country-resort/
🛎️ Plan your San Antonio trip: https://www.visitsanantonio.com/
🎙️ Listen weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/
🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Sunday Aug 24, 2025
Sunday Aug 24, 2025
Big Blend Radio’s “Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie” Podcast
In recognition of National Wellness Month and Back to School season, board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany—author of “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story”—shines a light on the alarming rise of heart disease among younger generations.
The conversation explores key risk factors such as vaping, stress, obesity, and diabetes, while emphasizing the role of families in fostering healthy eating habits, physical activity, and heart health awareness. Dr. Jackie also discusses the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, the importance of routine checkups, and how family involvement can make a life-saving difference in promoting healthier lifestyles for kids and teens.
📘 Learn more about her book: https://womenandheartdiseasebook.com/
⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 – National Wellness Month and Heart Health Awareness03:37 – The Impact of Vaping on Heart Health05:53 – Stress, Anxiety, and Their Effects on Youth10:00 – The Dangers of Drug Use on Heart Health13:00 – Family Responsibility in Heart Health16:13 – The Mediterranean Diet and Heart Health18:52 – The Importance of Family Activities for Heart Health21:47 – Understanding Stents and Heart Health23:55 – Back to School: Prioritizing Family Heart Health25:15 – Closing Thoughts
🔔 New episodes air every 2nd Wednesday! Subscribe: https://hearthealthyliving-drjackie.podbean.com/
🎧 Also featured on Big Blend’s “Quality of Life” & Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Saturday Aug 23, 2025
Saturday Aug 23, 2025
Join us on Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast with Glynn Burrows, owner of Norfolk Tours UK, as we celebrate Eat Dessert First Month and National Sponge Cake Day with a lively and nostalgic conversation with about British desserts.
From timeless classics like sponge cake, scones, trifle, puddings, carrot cake, and meringues, to the exciting wave of new desserts such as Eton Mess and other creative cakes, discover how England’s sweet traditions continue to evolve. Along the way, we highlight how historic favorites reflect culinary history while modern treats showcase changing tastes, and explore the cultural significance of bakeries, tea shops, and the beloved art of baking.
📖 Read Glynn Burrows’ companion article: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in England – https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/satisfy-your-sweet-tooth-in-england/
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Big Daily Blend and Eat, Drink & Be Merry podcast channels. explore: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Friday Aug 22, 2025
Friday Aug 22, 2025
In honor of American Artists Appreciation Month, Big Blend Radio revisits an archived interview with photographer William Bretzger, originally featured in 2017 as part of our ongoing coverage of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) and its unique artist-in-residence programs. Bretzger shares insights from his time at Gettysburg National Military Park, where he has been photographing for over 20 years.
In this inspiring conversation, he reflects on the immersive nature of his residency, the historical significance of Gettysburg, and his creative use of projections to blend historical figures with the present-day landscape. He also discusses balancing traditional film with modern digital photography, the role of light in storytelling, and how residencies foster artistic growth, experimentation, and a deeper connection to history.
From capturing dawn and dusk’s atmosphere to exploring how artistic intentions evolve during the residency, Bretzger offers a fascinating look into the power of art in the national parks and the lasting impact of the program on his creative journey.Follow William Bretzger on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gettysburgcamera Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/

Wednesday Aug 20, 2025
Wednesday Aug 20, 2025
Celebrate American Adventures Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" podcast with travel writer and author Linda Ballou, who shares her coastal California adventures visiting both new and familiar destinations featured in her book, "Lost Angel in Paradise."
From Malibu’s resilience and Santa Barbara’s cultural charm to Morro Bay’s birding hotspots, Cambria’s elephant seals, and the rugged trails of Big Sur, this episode highlights the beauty, recovery, and hidden gems of California’s breathtaking coastline. Linda also emphasizes the importance of preserving nature while enjoying outdoor adventures like hiking, birdwatching, and exploring scenic byways.
📝 Read Linda’s Articles:🔗 Untamed Beauty of Big Sur: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/linda-ballou-samples-the-untamed-beauty-of-big-sur-along-the-pacific-coast-highway-from-point-lobos-to-pacific-grove/ 🔗 Bird’s Eye View of Morro Bay: https://travelscope.net/birds-eye-view-of-morro-bay-on-the-central-coast-of-california/ 🔗 Whale Trail Stops on Hwy 1: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/whale-trail-stops-on-the-hwy-1-discovery-route/ 🔗 Lollygagging at the Olallieberry Inn: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/lollygagging-at-the-olallieberry-inn/
🌍 Follow Linda’s travel adventures & books:🔗 https://lostangeladventures.com 🔗 http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST🎙️ Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com
🎤 Also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station", "Big Daily Blend", "Road Trip Radio," and "Parks & Travel" Podcast Channels. Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Big Blend Radio's BIG DAILY BLEND Podcast
Produced by Big Blend Radio, this daily pop culture podcast celebrates the day or month holidays, observances, historic happenings, and even new legislature. Be sure to check each episode's show notes for related resource including music playlists, articles, puzzles, and recipes.
Big Blend Radio is hosted and produced by the digital nomad mother-daughter team Lisa D. Smith (daughter) and Nancy J. Reid (mother), who also publish various digital Big Blend Magazines while traveling full-time on their Love Your Parks Tour where they document parks and public public lands across America. More at BlendRadioandTV.com and NationalParkTraveling.com.
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