Big Daily Blend

Medford’s Award-Winning Wine, Beer & Culinary Treasures

Celebrate American Adventures Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with IFWTWA, as we explore the vibrant food, wine, and beer scene of Medford, Oregon with Carole Skeeters-Stevens of Travel Medford.  
This Southern Oregon region is home to the Rogue Valley American Viticultural Area, recently named the #2 Best Wine Region in the United States by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
From over 70 wine varietals to craft breweries, fertile farmlands, and seasonal events, Medford offers a delicious mix of flavors and experiences. It’s also the hometown of two culinary legends: the world-famous Harry & David, known for gourmet gift baskets and artisanal treats, and the award-winning Rogue Creamery, celebrated for its world-class blue cheese. You can also visit Crater Lake National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder and perfect picnic destination. 
The conversation highlights how the region blends winemaking innovation with deep-rooted traditions, supports sustainable agriculture, and embraces the beauty of each season—especially in the fall. You’ll also hear about outdoor adventures, community hospitality, and how Travel Medford makes it easy to plan your visit.
🍷 Plan your trip: https://www.travelmedford.org/ 🎧 Subscribe & Listen: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 🍷 Discover  the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA): https://ifwtwa.org 
📢 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station, Big Daily Blend, and Eat, Drink & Be Merry podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
Photos courtesy Travel Medford. 

Exploring Ireland Through a Child’s Eyes

In celebration of National Family Fun Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wanderers Compass” Travel Podcast features co-hosts Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass Travel Blog, sharing highlights from their recent journey to Ireland with Ryan’s son. From mouthwatering culinary discoveries to hands-on historical adventures, they reflect on how seeing the world through a child’s eyes brings fresh perspectives, unexpected adventures, and unforgettable memories.
Hear about immersive activities that brought Ireland’s history and culture to life, the joy of savoring local flavors, and how storytelling deepened their connection to the places they visited. They also discuss the balance between careful planning and staying flexible, and how shared adventures can strengthen bonds and inspire a lifelong love of travel.
🎧 Follow Wanderers Compass:https://www.wandererscompass.com/ https://www.instagram.com/wandererscompasstravelblog/ https://www.facebook.com/wandererscompasstravelblog 
📅 New episodes every second Monday on Big Blend Radio:https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ Also featured on the “Vacation Station” and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Discovering the Hidden Gem of Kings Gap, Pennsylvania

In celebration of American Adventures Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer and photographer Jo Clark highlights the beauty, history, and activities of Kings Gap and the surrounding Cumberland Valley region of Pennsylvania.
From scenic views and historic architecture to hiking on the Appalachian Trail, local wineries, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, and live music events, Jo shares why this region is perfect for both outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers. She also touches on the area’s military heritage and seasonal charms—especially in the fall.
📖 Read Jo's Article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/discover-kings-gap-pennsylvania/ 
🗓️ “Jo Goes Everywhere!” airs every 2nd Sunday at 7pm EST on Big Blend Radio. Listen & Subscribe: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/ 
🌍 Follow Jo's Travels:http://www.haveglasswilltravel.com/ https://recipestravelculture.com/ 
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Mississippi River Country Road Trip: Minnesota, Wisconsin & Illinois

Celebrate American Adventures Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). Travel writer Melody Pittman shares highlights from her scenic and delicious road trip through the heart of Mississippi River Country, covering memorable stops in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
In this lively conversation, Melody talks about exploring national parks, roadside attractions, and family-friendly casinos, plus enjoying local cuisine, architectural marvels like Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs, and charming Midwest towns. The discussion touches on everything from the Mall of America to cheese curds, whiskey tastings, and the hospitality that makes the Midwest a must-visit for road trippers.
🎧 Listen in for tips on culinary stops, cultural gems, and fun, budget-friendly activities for all ages!
Read Melody's article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-the-heart-of-mississippi-river-country/ Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org Subscribe to the show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Vacation Station,” “Road Trip Radio,” and “Parks & Travel” channels. 

Discover California's Sequoia Country: Nature, Parks & The Arts

Celebrate American Adventures Month and National Parks Month with this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California Sequoia Country” podcast! Tune in as we explore the scenic wonders, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cultural experiences of Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, and the Giant Sequoia National Monument.
Joining the conversation are Holly Streit from Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and Suzanne Bianco from Visit Visalia, who share travel tips, hiking safety, family-friendly activities, and unique artistic experiences in the region. From shaded hiking trails and historical sites to public art and the Dark Sky Festival, this episode celebrates the magic of nature and how art enhances the experience of visiting Sequoia Country.
🎨 Artist Opportunity! Learn about the Sequoia Legacy Tree Art Installation RFP here: https://www.visitvisalia.com/sequoia-legacy-art-installation-rfp 
📍 Download the free Tulare County Visitor Guide:https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe to the Podcast:https://discover-the-sequoias.podbean.com/ 
🌐 More About the Guests:- Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks – https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm - Visit Visalia – https://www.visitvisalia.com/ 
📡 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel, Vacation Station, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels. Subscribe to the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Cruising Alaska: Glaciers, Wildlife & Culture

Celebrate American Adventures Month and National Parks Month with this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon”, featuring award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz as she shares highlights from her recent Alaskan cruise with Holland America.
In this engaging conversation, Sharon recounts her unforgettable journey through Glacier Bay, wildlife sightings both on and off the boat, and unique cultural and culinary experiences that made this trip a dream come true. Listeners will hear about the educational opportunities onboard, scenic excursions, and why Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination. Whether you're planning your own Alaska adventure or just dreaming of one, this episode is full of tips and inspiration for travelers of all ages.
📝 Read Sharon’s full article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/the-ultimate-alaska-cruise-experience/ 
🎙️ Learn more about Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com 
📅 Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 
🎧 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Oyster Delights: Recipes, Traditions & Sustainable Flavor

Celebrate the World of Oysters with this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Show. From indulgent recipes and regional oyster experiences to sustainability, oyster farming, and tradition, this lively conversation explores oysters from sea to table.
Featured guests and their resources include:🍽️ Jeffrey Spear – Food writer and author of My Life in Gluttony. He shares his indulgent Oyster Pot Pie recipe.* Website: https://spearwrites.com/ * Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/jeffs-oyster-pot-pie/ 
🌊 Kathleen Walls – Food, wine, and travel writer, author, and publisher of American Roads. She shares her oyster travel and dining stories:* Port St. Joe Restaurants: https://www.foodieflashpacker.com/port-st-joe-restaurants/ * OBX Oyster Adventures: https://americanroads.net/blog_obx.htm * Oyster Experiences in Onslow County: https://americanroads.net/fantastic_experiences_onslow_county_5-13-2023.html * Elite Street - Fall 2015: https://www.americanroads.net/elite_street_fall2015.htm 
📷 Sharon K. Kurtz – Award-winning food, wine, and travel writer and photographer. She shares her favorite oyster article:* Favorite Oysters from Coast to Coast: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/favorite-oysters-from-coast-to-coast/* Website: https://sharonkkurtz.com/ 
👨‍🍳 Chef Ivan Flowers – Five-star chef and culinary instructor who shares two delicious oyster recipes:* Grilled Oysters Rockefeller: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/grilled-oysters-rockefeller/ * Fried Oysters (Digital Flipbook): https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/knqg/#p=29 
🎄 Jo Clark – Food, wine, and travel writer at Have Glass Will Travel. She shares insights into oyster traditions and a comforting stew recipe:* Website: https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ * Oyster Stew Recipe & Christmas Traditions: http://www.recipestravelculture.com/Oyster-Stew-christmas-food-traditions/ 
This episode dives into:- Oyster varieties and regional flavors- Cooking techniques from grilling to baking and stew- Food traditions and personal memories- Beverage pairings including wine, beer, and even tequila- Sustainability and the environmental benefits of oyster farming- Tips on storing, shucking, and serving oysters safely- Why oysters are both a culinary treat and a cultural treasure
🎧 Explore the culinary, coastal, and cultural world of oysters—delicious, sustainable, and full of flavor! 

Purposeful Shopping at the Western National Parks Store in Tucson, Arizona

In celebration of the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act (August 4, 2020), this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Parks & Travel” Show shines a spotlight on the Western National Parks (WNP) and their remarkable National Parks Store in Tucson, Arizona.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Joanna Johnson (Operations Manager) and Lauren Mooney (Chief Revenue Officer) of WNP, along with travel writer and editor Eva Eldridge, as we explore how retail, education, and community engagement play vital roles in supporting America’s national parks. From showcasing local and indigenous art to offering books and products that deepen visitor understanding, the store is more than a gift shop — it’s a hub for cultural connection and preservation.
Learn how your purchases at the National Parks Store and WNP visitor centers directly contribute to the interpretation and protection of our public lands. Whether you’re a traveler, a nature enthusiast, or a supporter of the arts, this episode invites you to shop with purpose and connect with the spirit of the parks.
🌐 Learn more:- Western National Parks: https://wnp.org/ - Eva’s Article:  https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/western-national-parks-store-in-tucson/ 
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" and "Vacation Station" podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
Images by Brad Sutton and Martha Lochert Photography, courtesy of WNP