Big Daily Blend

Discover America’s Heartland: Historic Jefferson Highway & Route 66

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the rich history, culture, and enduring appeal of two of America’s iconic roadways — the Jefferson Highway and Route 66.
As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Their featured guest is Jeremy Morris, President of the Route 66 Association of Missouri and owner of The Parsonage at Red Oak II.
From historic sites and roadside attractions to outlaws, musicians, and local legends, this engaging conversation highlights the unique stories that define travel along these legendary routes. Learn how small businesses, community pride, and preservation efforts keep the spirit of Americana alive, while also learning about upcoming centennial celebrations and special events in places like Joplin, Missouri.
You will also hear about the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, and why this event is a must for history enthusiasts, road trippers, and anyone passionate about preserving and exploring America’s historic highways.
Whether you're drawn to the scenic beauty of the Ozarks, intrigued by haunted highways and historic buildings, or inspired by the people you meet along the way, this episode celebrates the timeless experience of road tripping through America’s heartland.
Learn more about Route 66 in Missouri:https://www.missouri66.org/ 
The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide:https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 
Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday. Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

Monarch Butterflies & Meaningful Travel in Mexico with Camiba Cultural Tours

Join travel writer Barbara Redding along with Troy Campa and Rene Ibarra of Camiba Cultural Tours as they share how responsible tourism supports ecosystems, preserves culture, and connects travelers to meaningful experiences. It's the perfect episode to celebrate Earth Day!
Discover the incredible migration of the Monarch Butterfly to the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, and learn how local communities and conservation efforts are working together to protect this natural wonder.
🌿 In this episode:Monarch butterfly migration and conservationResponsible tourism and ecological impactCultural immersion through local experiencesSupporting communities through travel
From the colonial beauty of Morelia to immersive cultural and nature-based experiences across Mexico and Latin America, this conversation highlights how travel can be a force for good.
👉 Explore more:https://www.camibaculturaltours.com/ https://linktr.ee/camibaculturaltours https://barbararedding.com/ 
📰 Read Barbara’s articles:- https://shebuystravel.com/monarch-butterfly-biosphere-reserve/ - https://rovology.com/mexico/morelia-and-monarchs-a-journey-into-mexicos-rose-colored-colonial-heartland/ 
🎧 This Nature Connection episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Coastal Mississippi in Spring & Summer: Festivals, Seafood & Scenic Travel

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes us to Coastal Mississippi, where spring and summer bring a vibrant mix of festivals, fresh seafood, and scenic coastal experiences. From exciting events like Cruisin’ the Coast and Jeepin’ the Coast, to the region’s deep-rooted maritime traditions, this episode showcases the culture, community, and charm of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
A major highlight is the new Amtrak route connecting Mobile and New Orleans, offering travelers a relaxing and scenic way to explore the coast. Lisa also shares insights into the historic Blessing of the Fleet, the thriving seafood industry, and unique nature experiences like the Hummingbird Festival in Moss Point.
Whether you're planning a festival-filled getaway, a culinary adventure, or a laid-back coastal escape, this episode highlights why Coastal Mississippi is a must-visit destination.
FOLLOW JOURNEY JUKEBOX🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 📖 Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 6pm CST: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 
📚 LISA EVANS TRAVEL RESOURCES:- Get Lisa's book, "101 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die":https://www.amazon.com/100-Things-Coastal-Mississippi-Before/dp/1681063824 - Changes in Attitude Margaritaville at Sea Group Cruise: https://gosmart-group-trips.vercel.app/trip/changes-in-attitude 
🗺️ COASTAL MISSISSIPPI EVENTS & TRAVEL RESOURCES:- Jeepin the Coast: https://jeepinthecoast.com/ - Blessing of the Fleet: https://stmichaelchurchbiloxi.com/blessing-of-the-fleet - Mississippi Songwriters Festival: https://www.msafestival.org/ - Hummingbird Festival: https://www.audubon.org/delta/news/hummingbird-festival-coming-2026 - Cruisin the Coast: https://cruisinthecoast.com/ - Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival: https://peterandersonfestival.com/ - Ship Island Excursions: https://msshipisland.com/ - OS1515 Downtown: https://os1515.com/  - The Pass Bungalows: https://www.passbungalows.com/ - Siren Social Club: https://www.sirensocial.com/about/ 
Photos courtesy Lisa Evans & CoastalMississippi.com 

May Louisiana Festivals: Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow & Cochon de Lait in Avoyelles Parish

Featuring co-host Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of Travel Avoyelles, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel Avoyelles” Podcast highlights two of the region’s most exciting spring festivals that celebrate heritage, community, and tradition.
Special guest Ryan Lopez shares insights into the Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow (May 16–17, 2026) at Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville. Discover the cultural significance of powwows, from traditional dance, music, and storytelling to educational programs, Native foods, and community connection. Learn about cultural etiquette, the powwow’s history, and the importance of preserving Indigenous traditions.
The episode also features Ramondo Ramos, who discusses the Cochon de Lait Festival (May 8–10, 2026) in Mansura—home of the Cochon de Lait Capital of the World. This beloved event celebrates Cajun culinary heritage with whole pig roasting over open fires, live music, contests, family activities, and a strong sense of community pride.
From Native American heritage to Cajun food traditions, this episode showcases how Avoyelles Parish brings people together through unforgettable cultural experiences.
LINKS & RESOURCES🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com 🔗 Tunica-Biloxi Pow Wow: https://www.tunicabiloxi.org/2026-pow-wow/ 🔗 Cochon de Lait Festival: https://www.cochondelaitfestival.com/index.html 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/ 

Southern California in Bloom: Botanical Gardens, Hidden Gems & Garden Escapes

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Show, travel writer Linda Ballou takes us on a vibrant journey through some of Southern California’s most stunning botanical gardens. It's the perfect episode to celebrate National Garden Month!
From the colorful tulip displays at Descanso Gardens to the expansive collections at The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, Linda shares her favorite places to experience spring blooms, tranquil landscapes, and diverse plant life. Discover the scenic hillside paths of Ventura Botanical Gardens, the native plant sanctuary of Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and the magical, world-renowned beauty of Lotusland.
As a special bonus, Linda also highlights Sacred Space in Summerlin, a peaceful meditation garden that offers a unique retreat for reflection and connection.
Along the way, Linda shares tips for planning your visits, insights on the importance of native plants and conservation, and why botanical gardens offer a meaningful way to connect with nature.
🌿 Garden Websites & Article Links:Descanso Gardens: https://www.descansogardens.org The Huntington: https://www.huntington.org Ventura Botanical Gardens: https://www.venturabotanicalgardens.com Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: https://sbbotanicgarden.org Lotusland: https://www.lotusland.org Sacred Space: https://lostangeladventures.com/f/top-secret-sacred-space Southern California Gardens Article: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/linda-ballou-shares-her-five-favorite-southern-california-botanical-gardens/
📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/ 
🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures:https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST: Big Blend Radio:https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 

2 Years of Jo Goes Everywhere: Travel Stories, Wine, and the Art of Storytelling

Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark celebrates its 2-year anniversary with a special behind-the-scenes conversation exploring Jo’s journey as a travel writer, storyteller, and creator of the new "Jo Goes Everywhere!" Digital Podcast Magazine.
From global adventures spanning Louisiana to Namibia, to experimenting with sangria recipes and discovering local flavors, Jo shares her passion for travel, food, wine, and cultural exploration. She also reflects on Big Blend Radio’s 10 Travel Writer Insider Questions, offering insight into her creative process, travel philosophy, and the importance of curiosity, research, and authentic storytelling.
The conversation dives into responsible tourism, the role of personal experience in travel writing, and how digital platforms are shaping the future of storytelling. Along the way, Jo shares tips for aspiring travel writers, the value of connecting with local communities, and why every journey—near or far—adds depth to both palate and perspective.
📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine featuring her Travel Writer Insider Q&A, Sangria Recipe, and 2-year Podcast Retrospective: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/ 
📲 Follow Jo:https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ https://recipestravelculture.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/ 
🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday. Listen:https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/ 

Rebirth and Renewal: Embracing Life’s Endings and New Beginnings

In this thought-provoking shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin "Live & Die Happy Coach" explores the profound connection between endings, beginnings, and living a life rooted in peace and authenticity. Through a heartfelt conversation, Shelley shares insights on death, rebirth, and how embracing life’s natural cycles can lead to deeper meaning and personal growth.
Reflecting on themes of spring renewal, the discussion highlights how our beliefs shape our experiences, the importance of gratitude and presence, and how we can create a more sacred and intentional life. Shelley encourages listeners to view endings not as losses, but as powerful opportunities for transformation and new beginnings.
This episode offers a compassionate and empowering perspective for anyone navigating change, seeking peace, or looking to live more fully in the present moment.
LINKS & RESOURCES:* Read Shelley's companion article: https://bigblendlifestyle.substack.com/p/rebirth-and-renewal * Shelley's Website: https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/ * Shelley's "Soul Library" on Substack: https://shelleywhizin.substack.com/  * Shelley's latest guidebook "Daily Love Vows": https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/books-resources/daily-love-vows * Shelley's upcoming guide book, "Living with Peace":  https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/books-resources/living-with-peace * Follow the Podcast: https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/books-resources/living-with-peace 

The Power of Marching Bands: Music, Education & Community

This episode of the Big Daily Blend Show explores the rich history and cultural impact of marching bands, as part of our special Jazz Appreciation Month programming, with cohost and award-winning singer-songwriter Johnny Schaefer. Learn more about Johnny: https://hearjohnny.com/ 
Joining the conversation are two highly respected music educators, who along with Johnny, have deep roots in Porterville, California which is known globally for its marching band legacy:
* Donna Steigleder – A retired band and choir director with decades of experience teaching band, jazz band, choir, and music fundamentals across multiple schools in Porterville. Her students consistently earned top honors at festivals and competitions, and she remains active in music performance, including participation in national marching bands and community ensembles. Listen to this separate interview about Donna's career: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5M12nien0g 
* James Kusserow – An award-winning band director and educator whose 37-year legacy includes leading the Porterville High School Panther Band to national recognition, performances at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, and the Tournament of Roses Parade. A National Hall of Fame Band Director, James continues to teach, perform, and mentor young musicians. Enjoy this separate interview about James' career: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oV7GJVXoyjI 
Together, they share powerful stories and insights on how marching bands shape communities, inspire students, and preserve musical traditions. From halftime shows to national stages, this conversation highlights the importance of arts education, the evolution of band music, and the lifelong impact of music programs—including the deep roots of jazz within marching band culture.
ENJOY OUR SPOTIFY "MARCHING BAND" MUSIC PLAYLIST (curated with the help of Donna): https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7gKtgGhmtnRUfZzPLGTTsl?si=c7d735b5ec074700