Big Daily Blend

Corey Schenck of Pangaea - The Reckoning Album

In celebration of National Arts & Humanities Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features Corey Schenck, co-founder of the progressive rock band PANGAEA. Corey talks about the band’s rich history, their creative evolution, and their long-awaited fourth album, “The Reckoning.”   
Recorded over several years, The Reckoning captures the authenticity and collaborative spirit that define PANGAEA’s sound. Corey reflects on the group’s decades-long friendships, musical influences, and the revival of their shelved album after twenty years. The conversation also dives into how digital distribution and AI are reshaping the music landscape, the resurgence of vinyl culture, and the lasting impact of album art and live, acoustic performances.
📀 More About PANGAEAFormed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, PANGAEA’s story began like many bands — a group of friends with a shared dream. After three internationally recognized albums and a long hiatus, the band reunited two decades later to release Beowulf (2023) and now, finally, The Reckoning. Their music continues to resonate across generations of rock and prog fans worldwide.
🔗 Links & Resources:- PANGAEA Band: https://pangaea.band/ - Big Blend Radio Interview with Ron Poulson about Beowulf: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/pangaea-beowulf-album/ - Listen to more episodes on Toast The Arts: https://toast-the-arts.podbean.com/ 

Kristy Tolley - 100 Things to Do in North Carolina Before You Die

Celebrate National North Carolina Day, originally established on Oct. 12, 1901, then later moved to September 28. Let's celebrate both dates plus the upcoming anniversary of North Carolina's Statehood Day on Nov. 21.Enjoy this share Big Blend Radio Vacation Station podcast featuring travel journalist and author Kristy Tolley, who discusses her new book, 100 Things to Do in North Carolina Before You Die. From fall foliage and food trails to hidden gems, historic landmarks, music heritage, and coastal escapes, Kristy shares highlights from across the Tar Heel State and insider tips for creating unforgettable adventures.
We first connected with Kristy on our Adventures in Asheville podcast with Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, when she released 100 Things to Do in Asheville Before You Die. Listen to that episode here: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/23-must-do-experiences-in-asheville-in-2023/ 
👉 Get Kristy’s Book: https://www.reedypress.com/shop/100-things-to-do-in-north-carolina-before-you-die 
👉 Follow Kristy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristytolley 
✨ Takeaways from this episode:- North Carolina has must-do seasonal activities all year.- The Biltmore Estate is a key holiday destination.- Fall foliage and Krispy Kreme are NC icons.- NASCAR, moonshine, music, and history shape the state’s culture.- Hidden gems like the Museum of the House Cat make NC unique.- Supporting local businesses is vital, especially after disasters.

The World of Cheese with Chef Ivan Flowers

Celebrate National Cheese Day with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY Show featuring Ivan Flowers, a 5-Star Chef and Culinary Instructor. 
Hear about the differences between soft, semi-soft, and hard cheese; ripe versus unripened cheese. Plus, what food and drink to pair with various cheeses, what to put on a cheese plate, cooking with cheese, cheese storage, and much more.
CHECK OUT SOME OF CHEF IVAN'S CHEESE-INSPIRED RECIPES:- California Mac & Cheese: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/california-mac-and-cheese/ - Red Pepper & Mozzarella Crostini: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/warm-red-pepper-mozzarella-crostini/ - Ricotta Gnocchi alla Checca: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/ricotta-gnocchi-alla-checca/ - Mushroom Provolone Burger: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/mushroom-provolone-burger/ - Margherita French Bread Pizza: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/margherita-french-bread-pizza/ - Spicy Veggie Pizza-Dilla: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/spicy-veggie-pizza-dilla/ 
Follow Big Blend Radio's EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY Show here: https://eat-drink-merry.podbean.com/ 

Beyond Breakfast – Celebrating the Versatility of Eggs

In celebration of World Egg Day and National Cookbook Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Show features food writer, world traveler, and award-winning author Jeffrey Spear, who celebrates the humble egg — a true everyday ingredient that shines in dishes far beyond breakfast.
From deviled eggs to Scotch eggs, soufflés to custards, Jeffrey explores the incredible versatility of eggs in global cuisines. The conversation dives into their nutritional value, creative uses in cooking and baking, and their surprising role in international dishes and beverages. Along the way, he shares stories and insights from his book, "My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure," celebrating the joy of culinary exploration and the art of transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary meals.
🥚 Read Jeffrey’s article “Eggs: Unlimited Potential”:https://spearwrites.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/eggs_national_culinary_review_2.pdf 
🎙️ Topics Covered:- Culinary and nutritional benefits of eggs- Creative and international egg dishes from around the world- Beverages that use eggs for texture and flavor- Cultural perspectives on eggs and their role in traditional cuisines- Fun ideas for brunches, themed parties, and creative home cooking
📚 Learn more about Jeffrey Spear and his work: https://spearwrites.com/ 
📖 Get his book “My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure” on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/My-Life-Gluttony-Culinary-Adventure/dp/0988919117 
📺 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channel. Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio 

Author Arlon Jay Staggs: Leta Pearl’s Love Biscuits

In celebration of National Book Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Books & Authors Show with Books Forward features author Arlon Jay Staggs, who discusses his debut novel, "Leta Pearl’s Love Biscuits" (Koehler Books, October 7, 2025). Perfect for fans of "Fried Green Tomatoes," this tender and charming Southern tale delves into small-town politics, a long-buried tragedy, and a mother whose mysterious, love-laced biscuits are stirring up gossip and a mess of feelings.
Set in 1982 in Bailey Springs, Alabama, "Leta Pearl’s Love Biscuits" follows Trudy, a young widow whose return to the spotlight—amid family drama, small-town scandal, and unexpected romance—forces her to confront her past and decide if she’ll play by the rules or risk everything for the life she truly wants.
In this engaging conversation, Arlon discusses the power of Southern storytelling, the blend of humor and heart in his fiction, and how food and gossip weave through the fabric of small-town life. He also shares insights into character development, the balance between love and tradition, and his personal journey from award-winning copywriter and brand strategist to novelist and writing professor.
Learn more about Arlon at https://www.arlonjay.com/ Learn more about Books Forward at https://booksforward.com/ Follow Big Blend Radio at https://bigblendradio.com/ 

Autumn Adventures in Asheville: Ghosts, Murder Mysteries & Leaf Peeping

Celebrate the beauty, mystery, and community spirit of autumn in Asheville, North Carolina! This October edition of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville " Podcast highlights the season’s vibrant blend of color, creativity, and connection in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Hosts Steve and Karen Wilson (aka “Mr & Mrs Wild” of The Lion and the Rose Bed & BreakfasT) are joined by Jennifer Johnson-Brown, owner of JJ Brown Productions, and Uncle Ted, musician and guide with Grayline Trolley Tours. Hear about Asheville’s fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway, interactive murder mystery experiences, and haunted history, while reflecting on how the community continues to heal and grow one year after Hurricane Helene.
Enjoy stories of Asheville’s rich cultural past, its creative heartbeat, and its many seasonal offerings — from trolley tours and local brews to cozy stays and community gatherings. It’s the perfect listen for anyone planning an autumn getaway to Beer City USA!
💼 Featured Guests- Jennifer Johnson-Brown, Owner of JJ Brown Productions – https://www.jjbrownproductions.com/ - Uncle Ted, Musician & Guide with Gray Line Trolley Tours – https://graylineasheville.com/ - Steve & Karen Wilson, Innkeepers at The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast – https://www.lion-rose.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Big Daily Blend” Podcast Channels. Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio 

Autumn Adventures on the Historic Jefferson Highway - Part 2

From festivals in Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana, to scenic retreats in Arkansas and historic stops in Kansas and Missouri, Part 2 of Autumn Adventures on the Jefferson Highway continues our fall journey along this legendary “Pines to Palms Highway.” 🍂
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” series, we explore vibrant communities that make this route a must for fall travelers. Hear about lively festivals, community spirit, small-town charm, and unique lodging — from historic motels, relaxing Bed & Breakfasts, and treehouses to boutique stays and classic brand hotels.
FEATURED GUESTS- Stacy Foley – Greenville Tourism, Texas: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/ - Janna Conklin – Boots Court Motel, Carthage, MO: https://bootscourt66.com/ - Phyllis Bitner – Miners Hall Museum, Franklin, KS: https://www.minershallmuseum.com/ - Tiffany Bertram – Tiffany’s Bed & Breakfast, Bismarck, AR: https://www.tiffanysbedandbreakfast.com/ - Charlotte Knotek – DeSoto Parish Tourism Commission, Louisiana: https://discoverdesoto.com/ - Billy Sumner – Travel McAlester, Oklahoma: https://travelmcalester.com/ 
✨ Listen to Part 1 here:  https://youtu.be/P6tMrp7STjM?si=vzYsI-LSvNRoEgSl 
🚗 The Jefferson Highway, known as the “Pines to Palms Highway”, stretches from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana, weaving through communities with deep historical roots and cultural pride.  Learn more: Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
🌐 Sign up to receive the upcoming new digital Jefferson Highway Travel Guide and new website updates: https://jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 
📺 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Road Trip Radio" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio 

Cooking Up Life Lessons with Shelley Whizin

In celebration of Dessert Month, Cookbook Month, and Emotional Wellness Month, this delightful and insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show features transformational life coach Shelley Whizin in a sweet conversation about the connection between food, emotional wellness, and personal growth.
Shelley explores how cooking—and especially chocolate—can serve as a beautiful metaphor for life. From embracing mistakes to savoring small indulgences, she reminds us that nourishment goes far beyond the table. Through reflection on creativity, relationships, and self-awareness, Shelley encourages us to approach life (and cooking) with love, joy, and an open heart.
🧘 Key Takeaways:- October is both Dessert Month and Emotional Wellness Month- Food can serve as an analogy for life and self-discovery- Small indulgences support emotional well-being- Cooking helps us navigate thoughts, feelings, and creativity- Creating space for new ideas fosters personal growth- Our relationships with food reflect our relationships with people- Mistakes can lead to creative breakthroughs- Finding joy in the process enhances emotional wellness- Self-reflection deepens our human and spiritual experience- Love and authenticity are key ingredients for fulfillment
📘 Read Shelley’s article: Bring Love and Chocolate to Your Tablehttps://blendradioandtv.com/listing/bring-love-and-chocolate-to-your-table/ 
📚 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://soul-diving-sunday-shelley.podbean.com/ 
📺 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life,”  "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork