Big Daily Blend

Barrett Klein - The Insect Epiphany

In celebration of National Be Nice to Bugs Day, we're revisiting this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Podcast that features renowned entomologist and professor Barrett Klein, PhD who examines the phenomenon of how humans and insects relate on a cultural level in his new book, "THE INSECT EPIPHANY:  How Our Six-Legged Allies Shape Human Culture" (Timber Press | Hachette; Oct 2024). 
Our world would look very different if we didn’t have insects—not just because they’re pollinators who play a crucial role in our environments, but because they inspire so many aspects of our culture. “The spellbinding diversity of insects is complemented by a diversity of humans and cultures,” Klein says, resulting in boundless inspiration and innovation. 
THE INSECT EPIPHANY explores the ways we use insects’ bodies (for silk, pigments, food, medicine), how we try to recreate them (for flight technology, architecture, social structures), and how we mimic them (for fighting, yoga, music, fashion).  More at https://www.pupating.org/ 
Follow Big Blend Radio's Network of Podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Exploring the Treasures of South Carolina's Coast

In celebration of Parks & Recreation Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer and photographer Jo Clark explores the stunning coastal treasures of South Carolina. Tune in to learn about the natural beauty, wildlife, and historical significance of Huntington Beach State Park, Brookgreen Gardens, and Atalaya Castle.
Jo shares fascinating stories—from the architecture of the castle to the legacy of rice plantations—and offers helpful travel tips, including seasonal events, scenic highlights, and community conservation efforts. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or art enthusiast, this episode is full of inspiration for your next adventure!
📖 Read Jo's Article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-the-treasures-of-south-carolinas-coast/ 
🗓️ “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, Garden Gossip & Big Daily Blend channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

What the World Needs Now: A Conversation with Clay Stauffer

In honor of New Conversations Day (July 12), this episode of Big Blend Radio features Clay Stauffer, author of "What the World Needs Now: Virtue and Character in an Age of Chaos." In this thought-provoking conversation, Clay discusses how we can better navigate today’s complex world by embracing emotional intelligence, spiritual connection, and character formation. He addresses key issues such as loneliness, political polarization, trauma, homelessness, and the breakdown of community—and emphasizes the healing power of forgiveness, compassion, and active engagement in society.
Drawing from his work as a pastor, professor, and columnist, Clay offers a hopeful yet realistic roadmap for building stronger relationships and more unified communities in turbulent times....and that can all start through conversation.
Key Takeaways:• Loneliness and polarization are two of today’s most urgent challenges• Emotional intelligence is key to meaningful dialogue and empathy• Spirituality and connection support emotional and personal growth• Trauma and fractured family ties often underlie homelessness• Forgiveness and healing are essential to restoring relationships• Community support is crucial during personal and collective tragedies• Disasters often bring out the best in human nature• Strong communities require ongoing, intentional connection• Character formation is a lifelong journey• Real societal change demands active participation
Clay Stauffer is the Senior Minister of Woodmont Christian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and teaches moral leadership at Vanderbilt University. He holds a Bachelor’s from Texas Christian University, a Master of Divinity from Princeton Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry from the University of the South at Sewanee. His doctoral research focused on faith, politics, and cultural polarization. Clay is also a columnist for "The Tennessean" and an active community leader. Learn more at:  https://claystauffer.com/ 

MUTTS: A Celebration of Mystery Mixed Breeds

In celebration of All American Pet Photo Day, we're revisiting this Big Blend Radio show featuring award-winning photographer Olivia Grey Pritchard, who discusses her beautiful and heartwarming new coffee table book, "MUTTS: A Celebration of Mystery Mixed Breeds."
Whether you currently have a mutt, grew up with one, or you’re a pet-free animal lover, MUTTS is a must have! This stellar book features more than 100 gorgeous pups from all different origins and breeds. Each photo is accompanied by the pooch’s name, best guess of breed mix, and lists unique traits. More: https://www.oliviagreypritchard.com/ 

The Ultimate Alaskan Cruise Experience: What to Know Before You Go

Celebrate Parks & Recreation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Quiltripping Travel with Rose" podcast!
Seasoned travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares expert advice on planning an unforgettable Alaskan cruise adventure. Having taken four cruises and four road trips through Alaska, Rose highlights the best ways to experience the breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife encounters, and vibrant local cultures. The conversation also shines a spotlight on Glacier Bay National Park, a stunning and protected treasure often visited on Alaskan cruise itineraries—making this episode a perfect tribute to the beauty and importance of our national parks.
Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or just dreaming of the Last Frontier, this conversation is packed with practical planning tips and inspiring takeaways.
🌐 Get Rose's Alaska Cruise Planning Tips: https://quiltripping.com/alaska-cruise-planning-tips/ 🔗 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/ 🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/ 📲 Also Featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Big Daily Blend Channel: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Heart Health on the Go: Travel Safety Tips and Summer Wellness

In this “From the Vault” episode of Big Blend Radio’s Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie, we celebrate Parks & Recreation Month and the Summer Travel Season with an essential conversation on heart health during travel and outdoor adventures. Board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany highlights the importance of recognizing heart attack symptoms, the life-saving impact of CPR and AEDs in public spaces, and how to manage heart health at high altitudes.
She also discusses the Mediterranean diet as a practical, heart-healthy lifestyle and offers critical advice for travelers, especially women, who may experience different heart attack symptoms than men. Whether you're hiking, flying, or exploring a new city, this episode is full of smart tips to help you stay heart-healthy on the go.
📖 Read Dr. Jackie’s article “Heart Attack Safety Tips for Travelers” in Parks & Travel Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/dshq/#p=70 
📘 Learn more about Dr. Jackie’s bestselling book “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story”:https://womenandheartdiseasebook.com/ 
🎧 Subscribe to the show: https://hearthealthyliving-drjackie.podbean.com/ 
🔔 New episodes every 2nd Wednesday – also featured on Big Blend’s Quality of Life, Big Daily Blend, Vacation Station, and Parks & Travel channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

CityPASS: Save Big and Travel Smart on Family Adventures

Celebrate National Family Reunion Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with IFWTWA, featuring Meg Heinen of CityPASS. Discover how CityPASS helps families save big on top attractions across North America’s most iconic cities.
Meg shares the evolution of CityPASS, the diversity of attractions to experience, and the benefits of using the CityPASS app for easy reservations and ticket management. Perfect for families and group travel, CityPASS offers convenience, flexibility, and serious savings!
🗺️ Featured destinations include: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, New York City, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California (includes LA), Tampa Bay, and Toronto.
From historic sites and botanical gardens to thrilling amusement parks and museums, CityPASS caters to all ages—and even makes a great gift for students and frequent travelers.
🎟️ Learn more: https://www.citypass.com 🍷 Discover IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎧 Subscribe & Listen: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 

A Visit to Earth Sanctuary in Langley, Washington

In honor of International Peace and Love Day (started by Ringo Starr) we're revisting this 2020 episode of Big Blend Radio that focuses on Earth Sanctuary in Langley, on Whidbey Island in Washington State. Earth Sanctuary is a tranquil, yet ever evolving, 72-acre retreat featuring self-guided or formal walking tours. Here one can experience beauty, tranquility and spiritual adventure. Within the private park you will find a nature reserve with beautiful wildlife ponds, approximately 15,000 native plants from 80 species and 3,250 trees from more than 30 species, a stupa, and phenomenal natural and man-placed sculptures.
Featured guests include travel writer Linda Kissam “Food, Wne & Shopping Diva,” and Chuck Pettis, founder of Earth Sanctuary. Read Linda's article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/earth-sanctuary-on-whidbey-island-washington/    Visit Earth Sanctuary: https://earthsanctuary.org/