Big Daily Blend

Welcome to the debut episode of our new series, A Feast of Words, airing in honor of National Literacy Month! This episode is a must-listen for both readers and writers alike, as we celebrate the power of storytelling and the written word. We've gathered a diverse group of acclaimed authors to share their work and discuss the art of autobiographies, short story collections, and poetry.
Our conversation explores the influence of literary giants like Jack London, the role of anthologies in fostering new voices, and the importance of community and editing in a writer's journey. Tune in to discover fresh narratives across a wide range of genres.
Featured Guests & Books- CLIFFORD GARSTANG - Award-winning author, writer, and editor shares from his short story collection “House of the Ancients and Other Stories.” More: https://cliffordgarstang.com/house-of-the-ancients-and-other-stories/  - DIANE DOBRY - Travel writer and memoirist shares her “Happy New Year in Budapest” story from the collection “A Pocketful of Dreams.” Read her story: https://gettinghungary.com/happy-new-year-in-budapest/  - LINDA BALLOU – Travel writer and fiction/non-fiction author shares from her essay “Jack London and Me,” which is in the 2024 San Francisco Writer’s Conference Anthology. Learn more,get book links, and hear Linda's full podcast episode about Jack London: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/linda-ballou-jack-london-and-me/  - HEIDI SANDER – Canadian travel writer, educator, and award-winning poet, shares from her poetry collection “Stratford Gems Book 1: A Poetic & Photographic Journey of Stratford.”* More: https://pages.heidisander.com/books/ and https://www.heidisander.com/ - MATT COST – Award-winning author of mystery and history, Matt discusses his story “Dead Men Don't Kiss” featured in the “Celluloid Crimes” anthology, available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Celluloid-Crimes-Deborah-Well/dp/B0FNPHXDZD * More: https://mattcost.net/ - EVA ELDRIDGE - Travel writer, book industry expert, editor, and co-President of Tucson Sisters in Crime, talks about two anthologies she curated. Both books are available on Amazon:
* Trouble in Tucson: https://www.amazon.com/Trouble-Tucson-Coast-Crime-Anthology/dp/B0BTRPH84K * Feisty Felines: https://www.amazon.com/Feisty-Felines-Other-Fantastical-Familiars/dp/1680576194 * More: https://evaeldridge.com/ and https://3sides2authorservices.com/ * Tucson Sisters in Crime: https://www.tucsonsistersincrime.org/  - SUZANNE FLAIG – Mystery writer and author, talks about two anthologies she is part of. The books are available on Amazon:* Mystery Most Humorous: https://www.amazon.com/Donna-Andrews-Presents-Malice-Domestic-ebook/dp/B0F6KRMY7D * Danger Awaits!: https://www.amazon.com/SoWest-Sisters-Sleuths-Chapter-Anthology-ebook/dp/B0FNS2H162 * More: https://www.suzanneflaigwriter.com/ - ARYN YOUNGLESS – Writer, indie publisher, and genealogist, discusses anthologies she is part of, including one she put together in high school.* “Made in L.A” and “A Night of Misfit Stories” anthologies: https://asyounglessauthor.com/read-me/ * “Echoes of the Youth” high school anthology: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084? params=ujFY7byK3uekkrw6NR3kIQNoGBES3ivK2SdcQjK09Lk * Genealogy Services: https://www.genealogybyaryn.com/ 
 
Key Takeaways for Writers & Readers- For Writers: Gain insights into the submission process for anthologies, the value of short story collections as a stepping stone, and the crucial role of editing. Learn about building a supportive community to help you on your creative journey.- For Readers: Discover acclaimed authors and fresh narratives across a variety of genres, including memoir, mystery, travel, and poetry. This episode will help you find your next favorite story. 

In celebration of Self-Awareness Month, this insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show features transformational life coach Shelley Whizin exploring the art of shifting—how small adjustments in life can lead to profound and lasting transformations.
The conversation delves into the importance of self-awareness, authentic communication, and the role of workshops in personal growth. Shelley emphasizes the value of recognizing even the smallest achievements, living authentically, and creating ripple effects that bring more joy and balance into our lives. She also shares wisdom on navigating relationships, honoring the soul within the human experience, and embracing mistakes as opportunities for learning.
🧘 Key Takeaways:- Small shifts can create significant life changes- Self-awareness is essential for recognizing and celebrating achievements- Communication from the heart fosters deeper connections- Workshops can provide tools and insights for growth- Our human experience is intertwined with the soul- Living authentically is key to true happiness and fulfillment- Mistakes are valuable lessons for growth- The ripple effects of our choices influence relationships and joy- Recognizing and validating our efforts enhances self-perception- Self-discovery is an ongoing journey of patience and kindness
📘 Read Shelley’s article: The Art of Shifting: Tiny Adjustments, Big Changes: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-art-of-shifting-tiny-adjustments-big-changes/ 
📚 Get her book What Do You Bring to the Table? on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/What-You-Bring-Table-Inspirational/dp/1087932106 
🎧 Listen to Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley. New episodes drop every first Sunday: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm20NIMflxEGwyLKTjkxkFXk  📺 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life” and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

This episode of Big Blend Radio features award-winning singer-songwriter Teresa Tudury, celebrating the release of her powerful new album "Perhaps You’ve Heard of Me," and Johnny Schaefer, singer-songwriter and podcast cohost. Recorded in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Teresa’s album is raw, soulful, and deeply authentic — featuring Charlie Musselwhite on harmonica and Rickie Lee Jones on vocals.
Teresa and Johnny discuss the power of music, authenticity in artistry, the journey of creating and sharing songs, and how intimate performances and collaborations shape an artist’s life. Expect stories about resilience, humor, and the healing role music plays during hard times.
Songs featured in this episode: Teresa’s “All These Horrible People” and “Cowgirls” (featuring Rickie Lee Jones).
Keep up with Teresa:- https://www.teresatudurymusic.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/TeresaTuduryMusic/ 
Keep up with Johnny:- https://hearjohnny.com/ - Hear Johnny’s new single "Find a Place": https://youtu.be/4OsJMo-sK_o?feature=shared 
⏱ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Music and Guests04:39 Teresa's New Album and Recording Journey10:15 The Power of Music and Connection14:54 Authenticity in Music and the Role of Artists19:59 The Importance of Art in Difficult Times25:11 Teresa's Musical Journey and Influences30:00 The Evolution of Music Venues35:09 The Role of Humor in Music39:50 The Reality of Being a Musician45:30 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

Celebrate National Read a Book Day with Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" Show as we chat with award-winning author S.L. Woeppel about her gripping new psychological thriller, "The Butcher and the Liar."
At the heart of this dark and haunting story is Daisy Bellon, a Chicago butcher who has worked hard to bury her father’s grisly past—until an anonymous letter forces her to confront family secrets, childhood trauma, and the ghostly reminders of what she witnessed as a child. When someone close to her is murdered in a chillingly familiar way, Daisy must finally decide whether to expose the truth or risk becoming the monster she fears.
In this conversation, S.L. Woeppel shares her evolution as a writer—from her rom-com debut "Flipping the Birdie" (a BookLife Prize finalist) to exploring the shadows of human nature in her latest novel. We discuss the duality of identity, the influence of childhood experiences, the impact of family legacies, and how creativity often grows out of both passion and pain.
🔗 Learn more about S.L. Woeppel and her books: https://www.slwoeppelbooks.com/ 
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" Podcast channel. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “The Peanut Patch” Podcast, we're celebrating a new season! Donna George, owner of The Peanut Patch in Yuma, Arizona, shares all the delicious details as the country store gets ready to open its doors for the season on October 1st.
Whether you’re visiting in person or exploring their brand-new website, you'll get a taste of everything in store, including their famous homemade peanut brittle and sweet freeze-dried candy. We also dive into the health benefits of their locally grown Medjool dates, how to use Donna’s signature salsas for Chicken Month, and why local honey is a sweet must-have. Plus, she shares some delicious ideas perfect for Family Meals Month and Better Breakfast Month!
Tune in to discover how this cherished Southwest tradition is celebrating a new season of flavor while continuing to delight locals and travelers alike. 🛒 Shop year-round: https://thepeanutpatch.com/ 
🍽️ Get inspired in the kitchen with Donna’s recipes: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing-category/donna-george/ 
🎧 Listen and follow the podcast (new episodes every 1st Friday): https://peanut-patch.podbean.com/ 
📲 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork   

Experience the beauty and bounty of fall in California’s Sequoia Country with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California Sequoia Country” podcast! 
Explore the vibrant outdoor activities, seasonal wildlife, and lively community events of Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, and the Giant Sequoia National Monument.
Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:* Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm * Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ * Alida Verduzco Silva – Tulare County Economic Development: https://discovertularecounty.com/ * Julia Dix – Tulare Chamber of Commerce: https://www.tularechamber.org/ * Sandy Blankenship – Exeter Fall Festival / Kiwanis Club: https://www.exeterkiwanis.org/ * Magdalena Salazar – City of Porterville: https://www.ci.porterville.ca.us/ 
From fall colors in Mineral King and active wildlife in the parks to local celebrations like the Dark Sky Festival, Taste of Downtown Visalia, Exeter Fall Festival, Springville Apple Festival, Tulare County Fair, Porterville Pioneer Days, and foodie favorites like the Taco Trail, this conversation highlights the best of Tulare County during the fall season.
📍 Download the free Tulare County Visitor Guide: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://discover-the-sequoias.podbean.com/ 
📡 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wine Time with Peggy" celebrates the start of the fall harvest with delicious recipes and wine pairings. We revisit three of Peggy's fantastic dishes—Ricotta and Roasted Grape Crostini, Apple and Blueberry Crisp, and Spiced Apple Chutney Wontons—while highlighting LDV Winery's special offers and celebration of International Grenache Day (Sept. 20).
Featured Recipes in this Episode:- Ricotta and Roasted Grape Crostini: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/ricotta-roasted-grape-crostini/ - Apple & Blueberry Crisp: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/peggys-apple-and-blueberry-crisp-recipe/ - Spiced Apple Chutney Wontons: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/spiced-apple-chutney-wontons/ 
Episode Highlights:- LDV Winery is offering a 50% discount on select wines this September 2025.- Ricotta and roasted grape crostini is a simple yet elegant appetizer.- Roasting grapes enhances their sweetness and flavor.- Apple and blueberry make a delightful pairing in desserts.- Using Macintosh apples can elevate the apple blueberry crisp.- Allspice adds a unique flavor to desserts and dishes.- Spiced apple chutney wontons are a creative and fun recipe.- Cooking together can be a romantic date night activity.- Wine pairings can enhance the flavors of fall-inspired dishes.- LDV Winery encourages visitors to experience their tasting room.
Hosted by Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona, "Wine Time with Peggy" brings together food, wine, and culture. New episodes drop every 1st Wednesday at 4pm Arizona time. 
 🍇 Learn more about LDV Winery: https://ldvwinery.com 
🎧 Follow “Wine Time with Peggy” Podcast: https://wine-time-peggy.podbean.com/ 
🎙️  This episode also airs on the Big Blend Radio's "Eat Drink & Be Merry" and "Big Daily Blend" podcast. Discover more shows at https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Get ready to embrace the colors, flavors, and festivities of autumn in Asheville! This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Podcast highlights the best ways to experience fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains—from leaf peeping and haunted tours to festivals, food, and art.
Co-hosted by Steve & Karen Wilson—aka “Mr & Mrs Wild” and innkeepers of the beautifully restored Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in the Montford Historic District—this lively conversation covers:
🍂 Breathtaking fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway👻 Haunted tours that dive into Asheville’s history and spooky side🚶 Outdoor adventures like hiking and ziplining in crisp autumn air🎨 Cultural festivals and Art in the Park featuring local artists🎶 Seasonal events that showcase Asheville’s vibrant community🍷 Food and drink experiences that celebrate fall flavors🎃 Halloween festivities that bring the city together in fun, festive ways🛏️ Cozy fall stays and unique hospitality at The Lion & The Rose B&B
🎧 From fall color drives and haunted history walks to art festivals, food, and Halloween fun—this episode is your seasonal guide to Asheville’s autumn charm.
🛏️ Learn more about Steve & Karen Wilson and their beautiful B&B: www.lion-rose.com 
🎙️ More Fall-Fun Asheville Episodes to Enjoy(Note: some interviews are pre-Hurricane Helene)* Ziplining: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/zipline-asheville/ * Montford Historic District: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/the-montford-historic-district-of-asheville-north-carolina/ * WNC Nature Center: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/wnc-nature-center/ * Chimney Rock State Park: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/adventures-at-chimney-rock-north-carolina/ * Ghostly Adventures: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/ghostly-adventures-in-asheville-north-carolina/ * 23 Must-Do Experiences: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/23-must-do-experiences-in-asheville-in-2023/ 
🎧 "Adventures in Asheville" airs every 1st Tuesday of the month. Listen and follow the show on PodBean: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ 
🌐 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Parks & Travel" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore more Big Blend Radio podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork