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Author Maura Casey - Saving Ellen
Celebrating Women's History Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features award-winning journalist Maura Casey who discusses her debut memoir, "Saving Ellen: A Memoir of Hope and Recovery” (Skyhorse Publishing, April 1, 2025). The book crafts a vivid and poignant narrative of a working-class family’s resilience in the face of a terminal diagnosis.
Growing up in a family torn by addiction and financial hardship, Maura’s early years were shaped by instability and survival. Cared for by Dr. Mary Hawking (sibling of Stephen Hawking), her sister Ellen’s life-threatening battle with kidney disease added another layer of heartache, but it also deepened Maura’s understanding of courage and family bonds. Through it all, Maura has reframed the pain of her past, uncovering hope and meaning even in life’s darkest chapters. More: https://www.caseyink.com/
For over 30 years, Casey was an opinion writer for three New England newspapers and The New York Times, where she had a seat on the exalted Times editorial board. Today, Casey writes a weekly column, Casey’s Catch, at https://maurac.substack.com
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Recap of the 2025 Jefferson Highway Conference
01:21:33|This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show features a lively recap of the 2025 Jefferson Highway Conference held in McAlester, Oklahoma. The event brought together historians, community leaders, and heritage travelers to celebrate the cultural and historical significance of the Jefferson Highway, and included a special pre-conference Sociability Caravan.Featured Guests:- Roger Bell – Co-Host & President of the Jefferson Highway Association- Billy Sumner – Tourism Manager for the City of McAlester. Visit: https://travelmcalester.com/ - Adeline Whisenhunt – Conference Organizer & Member of the Oklahoma Chapter of the Jefferson Highway AssociationPLUS: Hear from Joe’s Yardbird & Lost Street Brewing CompanyThe conversation explores how tourism, historical preservation, and community collaboration contribute to revitalizing this iconic route. From the Choctaw Nation’s cultural contributions to stories of local resilience, the episode highlights how the Jefferson Highway continues to connect and inspire communities.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/ The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/California Minimum Wage Law Update 2025
36:21|On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s California Employment Law Podcast with attorney Ward Heinrichs, he unpacks key updates in California’s minimum wage laws. From the FAST Recovery Act and increased wages for healthcare workers to proposed changes affecting hospitality workers in San Diego, this episode provides a timely midyear reminder for both employers and employees to stay informed.📖 Read the article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/midyear-reminder-of-new-california-minimum-wage-laws-2025/ 👨⚖️ About Ward Heinrichs: http://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ 🎧 More episodes: https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/ 🔊 Part of the Success Express Podcast Channel on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkAuthor Sam Davey - The Chosen Queen
26:05|In this episode of Big Blend Radio, author Sam Davey talks about her powerful new novel "The Chosen Queen," a feminist reimagining of the Pendragon prophecy told through the eyes of Igraine—Arthur’s mother and a woman of great strength, wisdom, and influence. Shifting the spotlight from kings and knights to queens and mothers, this is a story about power, destiny, and the women who shaped legend.Sam shares her inspiration behind the book, how she blends history and myth, and what it’s like to juggle writing with a full-time career at London’s Royal Opera House. She also discusses her deep connection to Arthurian lore, the role of nature and magic in her storytelling, and her commitment to portraying women’s voices in history.🔹 Highlights:- A fresh feminist perspective on Arthurian legend- Igraine’s journey as a mother, leader, and visionary- The intersection of myth, magic, and historical research- Sam’s path as a writer, and advocate for women’s storiesLearn more at https://www.samdaveyroughmagic.net/Discover the Magical Isle of Skye, Scotland
21:07|In celebration of International Fairy Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Global Adventures with Debbie Stone” explores the magical allure of the Isle of Skye. Travel writer Debbie Stone shares her journey through Scotland’s legendary island, rich in fairy folklore, breathtaking landscapes, and historic castles.From the mystical Fairy Pools and towering Old Man of Storr to iconic landmarks like Dunvegan and Eilean Donan Castles, Debbie recounts Skye’s stories of giants and fairies, dramatic coastal views, and vibrant local culture. She also delves into Scotland’s culinary treasures—including haggis, Cullen skink, and the country’s famous whisky—while highlighting the Highland Cattle and countless sheep that inhabit the rugged terrain.📖 Read the article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/scotlands-isle-of-skye-will-leave-you-breathless/ 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Big Daily Blend” channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkLuxurious Salterra Resort and Spa in South Caicos
30:25|On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, travel writer Terri Guthrie whisks you away to the luxurious Salterra Resort & Spa in stunning South Caicos. From wellness-focused spa treatments and sustainable practices to world-class dining and curated outdoor adventures, Terri shares her firsthand experiences at this unforgettable Caribbean getaway. Discover what makes Salterra a must-visit destination—where barefoot luxury meets natural beauty.🎧 Listen now and piece together the experience with this online jigsaw puzzle: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/luxurious-salterra-resort-spa-in-south-caicos/ 🌴 Book your luxury island getaway at: https://www.salterra.com/ 📅 NEW! “Travel with Terri” is now a weekly podcast, airing Tuesdays at 9 AM CT. Subscribe: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station podcast channel. Check out the network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkTouring Historic Savannah, Georgia
41:21|In this flavorful and fascinating episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station" Travel Show, travel writer David Kriso and Savannah-based tour guide Enocha Edenfield share some of their favorite highlights and haunted happenings from Georgia’s legendary “Hostess City of the South.”From mouthwatering meals and ghostly encounters to art, architecture, and the enduring legacy of the Savannah River, this conversation showcases what makes Savannah a truly one-of-a-kind destination. Tune in for insider tips on local tours, cultural experiences, why October is such a magical month to visit, and more.Learn More:• Enocha Edenfield Tours – https://enochaedenfieldtours.com/ • David Kriso’s Travel Journal – http://www.dektraveljournal.com/ 🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio's Way Back When and Big Daily Blend Podcast Channels. Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkThe Kissing Playlist: Songs That Connect
54:00|Celebrate National Kissing Day with this fun and heartfelt episode of MUSIC TALKS on Big Blend Radio, featuring award-winning musician, producer, and cohost Joey Stuckey.From the spark of a first kiss to the songs that soundtrack our most romantic moments, this lively conversation dives into the powerful connection between music and intimacy. Joey shares personal stories, reflects on how music shapes relationships, and chats about the evolving nature of romance and the importance of keeping music real. With heart, humor, and some deep thoughts on everything from house concerts to kissing songs, it's a show that hits all the right notes.🎶 Don’t miss our curated Kissing Songs Spotify Playlist: https://tinyurl.com/yc4dnsxc Learn more about Joey Stuckey, the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia – the “Southern Rock Capital of the World” – at https://www.joeystuckey.com. This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s popular shows Big Daily Blend, Toast to The Arts, and Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll. Follow the Big Blend Radio Network here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork.The Life and Legacy of Artist Fanny Adele Watson (1873-1947)
25:24|In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s World of Art podcast, artist and art historian Victoria Chick shares the remarkable life and legacy of Fanny Adele Watson (1873–1947), a pioneering American artist whose work—especially her landscapes and depictions of national parks—stood out in a male-dominated art world.The conversation explores Watson’s unique artistic voice, her influences, and the historical context of her career. Victoria also emphasizes the importance of preserving art and recognizing the vital contributions of women artists throughout history, as well as how travel and natural beauty have inspired generations of painters.🖼️ Read Victoria’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-life-and-legacy-of-artist-fanny-adele-watson-1873-1947/ 🎨 Victoria Chick is a contemporary figurative artist, art historian, and the visionary behind the Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center in Silver City, New Mexico. She also collects early 19th and 20th-century American prints.🔗 More to Explore:- Victoria’s Portfolio: https://victoriachick.com/ - World of Art Podcast: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/ - Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/ 📣 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Women Making History and Toast to The Arts podcast channels. Discover more shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkThe Double-Edged Sword of Hidden Rules in Organizations
27:43|In this eye-opening episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) explores the often-overlooked impact of hidden rules in the workplace.From inclusion to exclusion, hidden rules shape our daily interactions—often without us realizing it. Rita breaks down how these unspoken norms function in organizational and cultural settings, why they can create challenges for newcomers, and how leaders and HR professionals can address them to build healthier, more transparent work environments.🎙️ Key Takeaways:• Hidden rules can both foster belonging and cause exclusion.• Cultural misunderstandings often stem from unspoken expectations.• HR plays a vital role in uncovering and addressing these silent norms.• Transparency and communication help prevent workplace inequities.• New employees should feel empowered to ask about unwritten rules.• Mentorship or a buddy system can help ease integration.• Organizations must align stated values with actual practices.📌 Resources & Links: 🔹 Visit Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/ 🔹 Discover more business & career podcasts on Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork