Big Daily Blend

Black History Experiences in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast dives into the rich culture, history, and heart of Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana (a Jefferson Highway destination), with cohosts Mary Guillory and Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism.
Joining the conversation are special guests Van Roy, Avoyelles Community Arts Liaison, and Lauren Harmason of the Avoyelles Arts and Humanities Council, who share how the parish honors Black history through arts, culture, cuisine, and community storytelling.
The discussion highlights the vital role of the Avoyelles Arts and Humanities Council in supporting local artists and educational programs, while exploring the lasting impact of Solomon Northup’s legacy in the region. The episode also spotlights the historic marker honoring legendary blues harp player Little Walter, and the special unveiling event that welcomed acclaimed blues guitarist Buddy Guy—underscoring Avoyelles Parish’s deep musical roots and cultural influence.
Listeners will discover how culinary traditions, creative expression, and community events work together to preserve and celebrate the parish’s diverse heritage. From meaningful cultural experiences to hidden gems beyond New Orleans, this episode invites travelers to connect more deeply with Louisiana’s living history through art, food, and local voices.
🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com 
🔗 Avoyelles Arts & Humanities Council: https://AvoyellesArts.com 
🔗 Solomon Northup Committee for Commemorative Works: https://SNCCW.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/ 
LET'S NOT FORGET THE MUSIC WE TALKED ABOUT! - Little Walker: https://open.spotify.com/album/2Y2oBBKe7dnNGJrf6HAGBc?si=OFpsVJy7QK2FjKhjB2FXHg - Joe Simon: https://open.spotify.com/album/3KXu9WiHi6HlxXM9aZtdQU?si=rxBCgwpfRBORYLx6zwW6mg  - Buddy Guy: https://open.spotify.com/album/7bkjnyiMG8mXzmEyfY49wD?si=pVPyLP-dQ-qgDQis55xf7Q 
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Way Back When," "Historic Jefferson Highway," "Toast to The Arts," "Big Daily Blend" & "Vacation Station" Podcast Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Understanding Women’s Heart Health: Prevention, Diabetes & Lifestyle

In celebration of Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month, board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany highlights the importance of heart health—especially for women. This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Heart Healthy Living" focuses on prevention, early detection, and the need for greater awareness around women and heart disease.
Dr. Jackie discusses how women often experience unrecognized heart attacks, the seriousness of congenital heart defects, and how conditions like diabetes significantly increase cardiovascular risk. The conversation also explores stress management techniques, the benefits of regular physical activity, and why the Mediterranean diet continues to be a heart-healthy standard.
Beyond diet and exercise, Dr. Jackie emphasizes the powerful role of community, human connection, and mental well-being in supporting overall cardiovascular health.
📘 Get Dr. Jackie’s book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Women-Heart-Disease-Real-story/dp/1534909842 
🔔 New episodes air every 2nd Wednesday! Subscribe: https://hearthealthyliving-drjackie.podbean.com/ 
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend’s “Quality of Life” & "Big Daily Blend "podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Celebrating America 250 in Gettysburg: History, Events & Sweet Traditions

As Gettysburg, Pennsylvania prepares to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) explores how history, community, and culture come together in one of the nation’s most iconic destinations.
Featured guest Mary Grace Kauffman of Destination Gettysburg shares how the town is launching a year-long series of events leading up to 2026, honoring not only the Battle of Gettysburg but also the people, agriculture, and stories that continue to shape the community today. The conversation highlights Gettysburg’s deep roots in farming—especially apple production—alongside its growing culinary scene, sweet treats, and diverse lodging options.
Listeners will also learn about immersive experiences such as the famous Gettysburg Cyclorama, a new scenic train experience across the battlefield, Eisenhower’s historic home, and the future opening of the Gettysburg Black History Museum. Family history research, heritage tourism, and meaningful storytelling play a central role in how Gettysburg invites visitors to connect personally with America’s past while celebrating its future.
This engaging discussion shows why Gettysburg is more than a historic site—it’s a living, welcoming community ready to host one of the most significant milestones in U.S. history.
🌐 Plan your visit: https://destinationgettysburg.com/ 
📰 Check out the brand-new Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 
🌐 Follow the Food, Wine & Travel Show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 

Exploring Oregon Chardonnay: The Evolution of Willamette Valley Wines

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Adventures" Show, Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva" has an in-depth conversation with David Adelsheim about the rise of Oregon Chardonnay and why the Willamette Valley has become one of the most exciting regions for this classic varietal.
They explore how Oregon Chardonnay has evolved over the years, the role of climate and terroir, and how earlier picking practices contribute to fresher, more elegant wines. The discussion also highlights the collaborative spirit among Oregon wineries, the importance of AVA designations, and how tasting experiences reveal a shared sense of place across the region.
The conversation touches on current consumer trends favoring lower-alcohol white wines, the growing national recognition of Oregon wines, and the upcoming Chardonnay celebration event (Feb 21, 2026) that brings producers together to showcase the quality and diversity of Willamette Valley Chardonnay.
Read Linda's Article: https://bigblendfooddrink.substack.com/p/exploring-oregon-chardonnay 
Visit:https://www.adelsheim.com/ https://oregonchardonnaycelebration.org/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” and “Big Daily Blend” Podcast Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Celebrating Art and Artists in America’s Southwest Desert Parks

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show celebrates the 93rd anniversaries of Death Valley National Park and Saguaro National Park, while spotlighting the impact of artist residencies through the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF).
As part of the first installment of the Big Blend Radio NPAF "Artists in Parks" Retrospective, Tanya Ortega (NPAF Founder) and Lisa D. Smith (Big Blend Radio) explore how artists-in-residence draw inspiration from desert landscapes, dark skies, and extreme environments, often transforming their original creative concepts through immersive experiences in the parks.
The conversation reflects on the historical significance of Death Valley and Saguaro, emphasizing the role of art in preserving cultural heritage and deepening public appreciation for national parks.
The episode highlights photographers, textile artists, and musicians whose work demonstrates the powerful connection between art and nature, while also underscoring the importance of community engagement and continued support for artist residency programs. This discussion sets the stage for the ongoing NPAF Retrospective series, celebrating artists, parks, and the enduring legacy of creativity in America’s public lands.
FEATURED ARTISTS DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODEDeath Valley National Park 2019: Sarah Weeden2019: Harun Mehmedinovic (Front Cover Photo Feature)2020: Cody Brothers
Saguaro National Park2024: Chelsea Bighorn – Textile / Fiber Art / Sculpture2024 & 2025: Rachel Mari Kimber – Singer-Songwriter / MusicianLINKS & RESOURCES:- Big Blend Radio's ARTISTS IN PARKS Retrospective Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qryf/#p=1  - Subscribe on Substack (Free): https://theartsinparks.substack.com/   - National Parks Arts Foundation: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel," "Toast to The Arts," and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  

Celebrating Chocolate, Nuts & Snacks at The Peanut Patch

Celebrate Chocolate Lovers Month with Donna George, store owner of The Peanut Patch in Yuma, Arizona! In this deliciously fun episode, we dive into Valentine’s Day treats, the surprising health benefits of nuts and peanuts, smart storage tips (yes, freezing works!), and what makes The Peanut Patch such a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
Donna shares insights into The Peanut Patch’s nearly 200 flavors of fresh, homemade fudge, chocolate-dipped specialties, peanuts, nuts, candies, pickles, preserves, and other crave-worthy snacks. We also talk about seasonal tours of the chocolate-making process, Yuma’s rich agricultural roots, desert beauty, and upcoming events like Mardi Gras celebrations and the Silver Spur Rodeo.
Plus, we introduce the new “Recipes from The Peanut Patch” digital podcast magazine, packed with chocolate and peanut-inspired recipes to keep the celebration going at home.
Whether you’re a chocolate superfan, a road tripper, or just love discovering iconic local food spots, this episode is a must-listen. 
🛒 Shop year-round: https://thepeanutpatch.com/ 🍽️ Recipes From The Peanut Patch Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Recipes-from-The-Peanut-Patch/  🎧 Listen & follow the podcast (new episodes every 1st Friday): https://peanut-patch.podbean.com/ 📲 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” and “Big Daily Blend” Podcast Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Pairing Wine with Asian Cuisine: Umami, Spice & Global Flavors

From Lunar New Year celebrations to Valentine’s Day dinners, this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wine Time with Peggy” Podcast explores the exciting harmony between Asian cuisine and wine. Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona, shares practical tips for pairing wine with Asian dishes by understanding umami, balancing acidity and spice, and matching wine texture with food.
The conversation dives into the diversity of Asian and Indian cuisines, intentional cooking, and how sauces, spices, and fresh ingredients influence wine choices. From pho and Thai flavors to mushrooms, dipping sauces, and a refreshing Chinese Chicken Salad, this episode encourages listeners to experiment, have fun, and savor the journey of global flavors paired with wine.
Recipe and pairing tips: https://bigblendfooddrink.substack.com/p/asian-flavors-and-wine 
Check out WINE & BITES, Big Blend's "Wine Time With Peggy" Podcast & Recipe Magazine featuring Peggy's recipes, articles, wine pairing tips, recipes, and past podcast episodes: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/fmlb/ 
Follow Wine Time with Peggy: https://wine-time-peggy.podbean.com/ 
Learn more about LDV Winery: https://ldvwinery.com 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio Network channels including Eat, Drink & Be Merry and Big Daily Blend. Discover more shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Top 15 Places to Kiss in Asheville, North Carolina

Celebrate the Month of Love with this fun and romantic episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" show, hosts Steve and Karen Wilson share their picks for the Top 15 Places to Kiss in Asheville, North Carolina — perfect for couples planning a winter getaway, a special date, or a spontaneous moment of mountain romance.
From scenic overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway and iconic landmarks like the Biltmore, to cozy breweries, peaceful nature spots, and intimate corners of Asheville, the conversation explores where romance naturally blooms. Along the way, Steve and Karen talk about why kissing, humor, adventure, and shared experiences are essential for keeping relationships connected and joyful.
The episode also highlights activities that enhance romance, including relaxing retreats, foot soaks, massages, and cozy evenings at a bed and breakfast. Whether you’re celebrating love, planning a proposal, or simply looking to reconnect, Asheville offers endless opportunities to slow down and savor the moment.
📖 Explore the NEW Adventures in Asheville Digital Podcast Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ADVENTURES-IN-ASHEVILLE/#p=1 
This show is hosted by Steve and Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a romantic Victorian inn in Asheville’s Montford Historic District. Visit: https://www.lion-rose.com/ 
- New episodes air every 1st Tuesday – Listen: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ 
- This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend" and "Vacation Station" podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork