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 first woman to drive around the world.Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba—the northern gateway of the historic Jefferson Highway—Aloha Wanderwell (born Idris Hall) left boarding school in France at age 16 to join Walter Wanderwell's around-the-world automobile expedition. What followed was an astonishing life of global exploration, filmmaking, cultural discovery, and history-making road trips across six continents.In this engaging conversation, Laurel shares what inspired her to tell Aloha's story after a decade away from publishing, the historical research behind the novel, why historical fiction is vital to preserving women's history, and how travel helps us better understand the world and one another. The discussion also explores Aloha's Canadian roots, her connection to the historic Jefferson Highway, and why this remarkable woman deserves to be remembered alongside history's greatest explorers.Learn more about Laurel Corona and her books at https://www.LaurelCorona.comCheck out our Big Blend book review of "Aloha Wanderwell Takes the Wheel" by Nancy J. Reid: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/aloha-wanderwell-takes-the-wheel

Whether you're naturally intuitive, spiritually curious, or simply wondering if there's more to life's coincidences than meets the eye, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Quality of Life" podcast offers an engaging and thoughtful conversation with author Katherine Marie about her new book, "High Five Your Spirit Guides: Manifest the Life You've Always Wanted with the Help of Your Spirit Guides."Drawing from her background in computers and IT, Katherine brings a refreshingly practical perspective to spirituality, showing how intuition, mindfulness, journaling, meditation, tarot, crystals, and simple daily rituals can help people become more aware of the guidance already present in their lives. Rather than asking listeners to abandon logic, she encourages curiosity, self-reflection, and openness to recognizing meaningful signs, synchronicities, and opportunities.In this inspiring discussion, Katherine shares:- What spirit guides are—and how they differ from angels and ancestor spirits- Why intuition deserves more attention in our busy, technology-driven lives- How synchronicities, repeating numbers, and everyday experiences may carry meaningful messages- Easy exercises anyone can practice to strengthen intuition- The connection between manifestation, gratitude, focus, and daily rituals- Why balancing logic with spirituality can lead to greater confidence, purpose, abundance, and joyLearn more about Katherine Marie, her books, newsletter, and upcoming events at: https://www.innercompassmedia.com/ Whether you're a longtime believer or simply curious, this conversation offers practical ideas for cultivating greater awareness, inner peace, and a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you.

Discover the best of New Orleans, Louisiana, with travel journalist Terri Guthrie on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Podcast. Building on her previous tour of the iconic Roosevelt Hotel, Terri shares her personal favorite places to experience the authentic soul of the Crescent City—from legendary jazz clubs and unforgettable Creole cuisine to historic neighborhoods, cocktail culture, and must-see attractions.Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another adventure, Terri offers insider recommendations for where to stay, eat, listen to live music, and experience the rich history and culture that make New Orleans one of America's most beloved destinations.In this episode:- Why The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel makes the perfect home base- Traditional and upscale jazz venues including Preservation Hall, Jazz Playhouse, Fritzel's European Jazz Pub, Three Muses Jazz Club, and Commander's Palace Jazz Brunch- Outstanding dining experiences at Restaurant R'evolution, Delacroix, and Commander's Palace- The legendary Sazerac Bar and Sazerac House Experience- Touring the Garden District in a vintage Cadillac- Behind the scenes at Mardi Gras World- Visiting the acclaimed National WWII Museum- Riding Amtrak's new Mardi Gras Service along the Gulf CoastThis episode is a wonderful companion to Terri's exclusive interview inside The Roosevelt Hotel: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/the-roosevelt-new-orleans Plus, check out the Official Sazerac Cocktail Recipe: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/travel-new-orleans-with-terri Keep up with Terri's travels: https://TravelwithTerri.com Listen to the Travel with Terri Podcast: https://TravelwithTerri.com/podcast Read The Luxe Explorer digital magazine: https://TravelwithTerri.com/magazine This episode also celebrates America's rich cultural heritage as part of America 250, highlighting one of the nation's most iconic cities where music, food, architecture, transportation history, and storytelling come together.

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Before They Vanish" Podcast, award-winning author and explorer James Michael Dorsey shares unforgettable stories from his acclaimed book, "Baboons for Lunch: And Other Sordid Adventures." From joining the Hadza hunter-gatherers of Tanzania on a baboon hunt to unexpected cultural experiences in China, Dorsey reflects on the humor, risks, and life lessons that come from immersing himself in remote cultures around the world.The conversation explores why he seeks out vanishing societies, how these experiences have shaped his writing, and what he's learned about storytelling, spirituality, and living in the present. James also offers a preview of his upcoming journey to Mongolia, where he'll live with nomadic eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains.James Michael Dorsey is an award-winning author, photographer, explorer, and cetacean specialist who has traveled extensively through 56 countries. His work focuses on documenting remote cultures, endangered traditions, and marine wildlife through books, photography, lectures, and personal narratives.Learn more about James Michael Dorsey:https://jamesmichaeldorseyauthor.com/ Listen to Big Blend Radio's "Before They Vanish" Podcast:https://before-they-vanish.podbean.com/ 

Travel writer, travel lecturer, and longtime Big Blend Radio guest David Kriso joins us for a special "Getting to Know You" episode, sharing the personal stories behind his passion for exploring the world.From growing up with model railroads and becoming an award-winning travel writer to working with cruise lines and inspiring audiences through his travel lectures, David reflects on the experiences that shaped both his career and his love of discovery. Along the way, he talks about Disney, Amtrak, music, future travel dreams, memorable family traditions, and the life lesson that has guided him since his teenage years: failure leads to success.David also answers Big Blend Radio's signature seven questions, revealing his spirit animal, bucket-list destinations, favorite music, travel inspirations, and even the one food he'll always avoid.David Kriso has written for numerous travel and transportation publications and regularly presents engaging travel programs at libraries and organizations throughout the Northeast. Learn more about his travel writing, reviews, travel tips, and upcoming adventures at https://dektraveljournal.com/. Visit the new Big Blend Media House at https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Music Talks with Joey Stuckey" Podcast, Joey shares highlights from an unforgettable musical journey to Los Angeles, where he had the rare opportunity to record on Les Paul's original recording console while exploring one of the most legendary legacies in music history.From touring historic recording spaces and collaborating with fellow musicians to reflecting on the lasting impact of innovation in music production, Joey offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at preserving music history while creating new music. Along the way, he discusses the influence of Les Paul, the importance of recording technology, the value of collaboration, and how these experiences continue to inspire his work as a musician, producer, educator, and Macon, Georgia's official Music Ambassador.Whether you're a musician, recording enthusiast, music historian, or simply love great stories about creativity and innovation, this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into one artist's remarkable Los Angeles music adventure.🎸 About Joey StuckeyJoey Stuckey is an award-winning blind guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, educator, and owner of Shadow Sound Studio in Macon, Georgia. Learn more: https://www.joeystuckey.com/ 📺 Follow Big Blend Radio:https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio 

In preparation for International Pirate Month (August) and International Talk Like a Pirate Day (September 19), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Show separates pirate myths from historical reality while exploring England's fascinating maritime heritage.Join historian, genealogist, tour guide, and Norfok Tours founder Glynn Burrows as he uncovers the brutal truth behind piracy, revealing how real pirates lived, why they became legendary, and how England's coastal history shaped centuries of maritime adventure. From notorious pirates and privateers to merchant ships, naval history, and the evolution of piracy, this engaging conversation looks beyond Hollywood stereotypes to explore the people, places, and events that continue to capture our imagination.Whether you're fascinated by maritime history, planning a trip to England's historic ports, or simply curious about the legends behind pirate lore, this episode offers a captivating journey into Britain's seafaring past.📖 Read Glynn's companion article:Pirates: The Brutal Truth Behind the Legendhttps://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/pirates-the-brutal-truth-behind-the-legend ⚓ Related Reading:Historic Ships of Englandhttps://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/jvrj/#p=8 🌐 Visit English Connection:https://EnglishConnection.uk 📚 Explore Glynn's English Connection Digital Magazine:https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-magazine 🎙️ Glynn Burrows joins Big Blend Radio every fourth Saturday, sharing fascinating stories about England's history, heritage, genealogy, culture, and travel destinations. Listen to more episodes: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-podcast This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's Way Back When, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels.

Join us for a special "Getting to Know You" episode of Big Blend Radio's Toast to The Arts Podcast featuring members of the Board of Directors from Tucson Sisters in Crime—President Lyn Worthen, Vice President Eva Eldridge, and Treasurer Elaine A. Powers.Discover what makes this welcoming chapter of Sisters in Crime unique as our guests share their writing journeys, publishing experiences, favorite projects, and the many benefits of belonging to a supportive community of mystery writers, readers, editors, and publishing professionals. Along the way, they also answer a series of fun rapid-fire questions about spirit animals, bucket lists, favorite foods, life lessons, and more.Whether you're an aspiring author, mystery fan, or simply enjoy hearing creative people share their stories, this lively conversation offers inspiration, laughter, and insight into the writing life.Learn More:- Tucson Sisters in Crime: https://www.tucsonsistersincrime.org/ - Trouble in Tucson Anthology: https://www.amazon.com/Trouble-Tucson-ANTHOLOGY-MEMBERS-SISTERS/dp/B0BTRPH84K/ - More Trouble in Tucson Anthology: https://www.amazon.com/More-Trouble-Tucson-Sisters-Anthology-ebook/dp/B0GP3K8B1N/ - Lyn Worthen / Camden Park Press: https://www.camdenparkpress.com/ - Eva Eldridge / 3 Sides 2 Author Services: https://3sides2authorservices.com/ - Elaine A. Powers: https://elaineapowers.com/ - Visit the new Big Blend Media House: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/