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Author Brian J. Morra - The Able Archer Series
Former U.S. intelligence officer and award-winning and best-selling author Brian J. Morra joins Big Blend Radio to discuss his thrilling Able Archer series that's based on true historical events.
BOOK 1: THE ABLE ARCHERS - US Air Force Captain Kevin Cattani and Soviet GRU Colonel Ivan Levchenko team up in the fall of 1983 to stop the worst nuclear crisis of the Cold War.
BOOK 2: THE RIGHTEOUS ARROWS - Who can you trust when a cold war heats up and conflict seems inevitable? After collaborating to thwart nuclear war in "The Able Archers," Kevin Cattani and his Soviet counterpart, Ivan Levchenko, developed a deep mutual respect—but in The Righteous Arrows they are working against each other. Coming April 16, 2024, from Koehler Books.
Watch for Brian on the Netflix special, “Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War."
More at https://brianjmorra.com/
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The Magic of Outdoor Cinema
22:06|Experience the magic of outdoor movies in beautiful Ojai, California, as Nicholas Weissman, award-winning filmmaker, producer, and President of the Ojai Film Society, shares how this nonprofit organization is bringing communities together through free outdoor cinema at the historic Libbey Bowl.Founded in 1988, the Ojai Film Society has become a cultural cornerstone, showcasing classic films, acclaimed documentaries, and independent cinema while making the movie-going experience accessible to everyone. Nicholas discusses the Society's history, its community-driven mission, the revival of outdoor movie screenings following the pandemic, and why seeing films on the big screen remains such a powerful shared experience.Along the way, discover why Ojai is one of California's most charming destinations, known for its thriving arts scene, scenic hiking trails, olive oil tasting, wineries, and stunning mountain sunsets.2026 Ojai Film Society Summer Screening Series🎬 July 2 – Hunt for the Wilderpeople🎬 July 10 – Selena y Los Dinos🎬 July 17 – Cookie Queens🎬 July 24 – Best in Show🎬 August 20 – Arrival🎬 August 27 – Jurassic ParkWhether you're a lifelong movie lover, an independent film enthusiast, or planning a California getaway, this conversation celebrates the joy of experiencing films together under the stars.Learn more about the Ojai Film Society and upcoming screenings: https://ojaifilmsociety.org/ Learn more about Nicholas Weissman's filmmaking work: https://vacationland.film/ Poster image courtesy Ojai Film Society: Jadyn Chen
The 4 Keys to Effective Team Building
30:59|In this practical episode of Big Blend Radio's SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) shares a simple but powerful framework for creating stronger, more collaborative teams.Effective teamwork doesn't happen by accident. Rita explains how the four essential components of successful teams—connection, clarity, feedback, and agreements—help organizations build trust, improve communication, strengthen accountability, and create workplace cultures where employees can thrive.To help leaders put these ideas into practice, Rita shares two easy-to-use team meeting exercises. One encourages team members to reflect on questions like:What will make us successful as a team?What do I need from this team to do my best work?What strengths do I bring to the team?What do I wonder about our team?She also recommends a simple job-sharing discussion that helps teammates better understand one another by answering questions such as:What are the top three priorities of my role?How does my work support our organization's mission?What do I spend most of my time doing?What do I need from my teammates to be successful?These practical conversations build understanding, strengthen relationships, improve onboarding, clarify expectations, and help create more connected, resilient teams.🎙️ Key Takeaways:Strong teams are intentionally built through leadership.Connection creates trust and strengthens collaboration.Clarity around roles and responsibilities reduces confusion.Feedback helps individuals and teams continuously improve.Agreements create accountability and shared expectations.Team meetings should encourage open dialogue and participation.Successful onboarding helps employees integrate more quickly.Understanding one another's strengths improves collaboration.Respect and communication are the foundation of healthy teams.Great teams continually learn, adapt, and improve together.🎧 Related Episodes on Feedback:🔹 Feedback Basics: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/e/feedback-basics/ 🔹 Giving Feedback: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/e/giving-feedback/ 🔹 Receiving Feedback: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/e/receiving-feedback/ 📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Supervision Matters Digital Podcast Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Supervision-Matters-Magazine-2026/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/ 🔹 Explore more business & career podcasts on Big Blend Radio Network:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork
Getting to Know Author Dr. BJ Magnani
39:59|What happens when a renowned toxicologist becomes a bestselling thriller writer?On this Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" episode, we chat with BJ Magnani - Author —Professor Emerita of Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at Tufts University School of Medicine, accomplished pathologist, toxicologist, and author of the acclaimed Dr. Lily Robinson suspense thriller series.From poison gardens and forensic toxicology to medical mysteries and the creative process behind crafting unforgettable suspense novels, BJ shares how decades of scientific expertise shaped her fiction. We also discuss the importance of science communication, mentoring women in STEM, fascinating natural toxins, dangerous plants, food safety, and why curiosity remains one of the greatest tools for both scientists and writers.Along the way, you'll get to know BJ beyond the lab and the page as she talks about her hobbies, bucket-list adventures, charitable work supporting women's health, and what's next—including exciting new writing projects.Learn more about Dr. BJ Magnani and her books:https://www.bjmagnani.com/ Coming August 2026: Dr. BJ Magnani and author Matt Cost will co-host Big Blend Radio's "Pets, Plots & Poisons" Podcast, airing every 3rd Thursday, celebrating mystery writing, animals, science, suspense, and all things delightfully dangerous. Watch for it on https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/
High Sierra Adventure & Wilderness Safety
31:38|July is Parks & Recreation Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate the beauty of America's public lands while learning how to explore them safely and responsibly.In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Podcast, award-winning travel writer Linda Ballou shares one of the most unforgettable stories from her memoir "Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales." Inspired by naturalist John Muir, Linda embarked on a horseback journey through California's magnificent High Sierra wilderness where unexpected accidents, injuries, and a dramatic helicopter rescue became powerful lessons in outdoor adventure.As part of her Lessons Learned from Travel series, Linda discusses how to choose reputable outfitters, why guide training matters, the importance of emergency medical evacuation insurance, and how proper preparation can help travelers safely enjoy national parks, wilderness areas, and other outdoor destinations.Whether you're planning a hiking trip, horseback ride, rafting adventure, or visit to a national or state park, this episode offers practical advice for exploring responsibly while protecting the wild places we love.Resource Links📖 Read Linda's companion article:https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/not-all-outfitters-are-created-equal/ 🎧 Listen to the audiobook edition of Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales:https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Angel-Walkabout-Travelers-Tales/dp/ 🌍 Linda Ballou:https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com 🎧 Subscribe:https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 📖 Explore the NEW Lost Angel Travel Adventures Digital Podcast Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/
Escape to Mission Resort + Club
33:45|On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Leigh Cort shares the story behind Mission Resort + Club, a historic resort in Central Florida that blends timeless Old Florida charm with modern luxury.Discover the resort's fascinating history, championship golf courses, relaxing spa and wellness experiences, exceptional dining, tennis, pickleball, croquet, scenic natural surroundings, and personalized hospitality. Leigh also highlights nearby attractions and day-trip opportunities that make Mission Resort + Club an ideal base for exploring Central Florida.Whether you're planning a golf getaway, romantic escape, wellness retreat, family vacation, wedding, or special event, this episode offers plenty of inspiration for your next Florida adventure.👉 Learn more about Mission Resort + Club: https://www.missionresortandclub.com/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🌐 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 📰 Check out the Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1
Inside The Roosevelt New Orleans
23:23|Step inside one of America's most legendary luxury hotels!Recorded on-site, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Podcast features travel journalist Terri Guthrie in conversation with Les Patin, Marketing Manager of The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel.Since opening in 1893, The Roosevelt has welcomed presidents, celebrities, Mardi Gras royalty, and generations of travelers seeking timeless elegance in the heart of New Orleans. Originally opened as The Grunewald Hotel, this iconic property has survived fires, Prohibition, the Great Depression, Hurricane Katrina, and today shines following its spectacular restoration as part of the Waldorf Astoria collection.From Huey P. Long's famous suite and secret passageway to the legendary Sazerac Bar, elegant Fountain Lounge, historic Blue Room, rooftop pool, luxurious Waldorf Astoria Spa, beautifully restored guest rooms, and the beloved Waldorf Wonderland holiday display, discover why The Roosevelt remains the Crown Jewel of the Crescent City.Whether you're planning your next New Orleans getaway, love historic hotels, or simply enjoy fascinating stories of American hospitality and architecture, this episode offers an insider's look at one of the country's most iconic destinations.As America approaches its 250th anniversary, this episode also celebrates one of the nation's most storied historic hotels and its enduring place in American history, hospitality, and culture.Learn more about The Roosevelt New Orleans: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/msyrhwa-the-roosevelt-new-orleans Learn more about Terri's travels:- Travel with Terri: https://www.travelwithterri.com/ - Travel with Terri Podcast (airs every other Tuesday): https://www.travelwithterri.com/podcast - The Luxe Explorer Magazine: https://www.travelwithterri.com/magazine
Traveling Europe Across Generations
01:04:34|Can travel connect generations?In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wanderer's Compass" Travel Podcast, travel writers Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough explore how traveling through Europe—from France and Belgium to Luxembourg, Germany, and the Netherlands—creates meaningful connections through castles, history, culture, food, and local traditions.This inspiring conversation celebrates the educational value of travel, showing how exploring together encourages curiosity, confidence, cultural appreciation, and lifelong learning for travelers of every age.⭐ Stay through the end to hear Ryan's son make his first-ever podcast appearance, sharing his favorite memories from the journey and what travel has taught him.In celebration of French-American Heritage Month, this episode also explores France's rich cultural and historical heritage.- Read their companion article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/traveling-europe-with-a-child - Hear about their adventures in Ireland last year: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/e/travel-ireland-with-kids/ - Follow Wanderer's Compass: https://wandererscompass.com - Listen to More Wanderers Compass Podcast Episodes: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ - Check out the Wanderers Compass Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/WANDERERS-COMPASS-MAG-2026/
America the Beautiful Road Trip
47:22|This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark celebrates the beauty and diversity of America with an unforgettable road trip through scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, cultural treasures, and memorable local experiences.From soaring above Upstate New York in a glider and marveling at West Virginia's New River Gorge Bridge, to winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains, exploring South Carolina's Lowcountry, discovering Gettysburg's rich Civil War history, and visiting California's Point Reyes National Seashore, this episode highlights the incredible variety of destinations that make the United States so rewarding to explore.Along the way, Jo shares travel tips, local food and wine experiences, farmers markets, and the stories of communities that preserve America's heritage, including the rich traditions of the Gullah Geechee people. Whether you're planning your next road trip or simply looking for travel inspiration, this episode celebrates the history, nature, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered across America.📖 Read Jo's companion article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/america-road-trip 📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine: 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/
Getting to Know Horse Expert Christy Wood
43:20|Celebrate a Big Blend Radio milestone! We have officially wrapped up Volume 1 of the ABCs of Horses digital podcast magazine, completing the entire alphabet from A to Z! To mark the occasion, host/producer Lisa sits down with resident equestrian expert and Christy Wood—world champion horse trainer, author, horse show judge—for a fun, insightful "getting to know you" interview. Before Christy hits the historic Chief Joseph Trail Ride again, we look back at the highlights of Volume 1 (from Appaloosas to the Zoomies!) and put her in the hot seat with 10 fun questions. Discover her ultimate spirit animal, her dream weekend getaway, what she wants in her ultimate horse barn, and why she absolutely bans onions from her dinner plate! 📖 Read & Listen to Volume 1: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/ 📚 Connect with Christy & get her books: http://wdnhorse.com 🎙️Subscribe to the Podcast from your favorite platform: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/