Big Blend Radio

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to the Arts” Podcast features debut author Emily Renk Hawthorne who discusses her breathtaking fantasy series "Of Mountains and Seas," inspired by Chinese mythology, folklore, and her Taiwanese heritage.Set in a hidden shapeshifting community along the Northern California coast, "Of Mountains and Seas" explores themes of power, belonging, conformity, generational trauma, and identity through multiple timelines and points of view. Emily shares the creative inspiration behind her multigenerational fantasy world, the importance of authentic cultural representation in storytelling, and how mythology and folklore continue to shape modern fantasy literature.The conversation also dives into Emily’s writing journey, character development, diversity in fantasy fiction, and the emotional truths that fantasy can reveal about the human experience.Perfect for fans of Sue Lynn Tan, Axie Oh, and Chloe Gong, this richly layered fantasy series blends magic, mythology, and social commentary into a compelling literary adventure.Learn more about Emily Renk Hawthorne and her work: https://www.emilyrenkhawthorne.com/

In this special “Getting to Know You” episode of Big Blend Radio, we chat with award-winning author, editor, traveler, and former international lawyer Clifford Garstang about his fascinating journey from international development and law to a celebrated literary career.A longtime guest on Big Blend Radio, Clifford has joined us over the years to discuss his books, literature, writing life, and international travels. In this engaging conversation, he reflects on perseverance, artistic integrity, storytelling, nature, travel experiences, and the creative process behind writing fiction.Clifford is the author of six works of fiction including "The Last Bird of Paradise," "Oliver’s Travels," "The Shaman of Turtle Valley," "House of the Ancients and Other Stories," "What the Zhang Boys Know," and In an "Uncharted Country." He is also editor of the acclaimed anthology series "Everywhere Stories: Short Fiction from a Small Planet."Learn more about Clifford Garstang and subscribe to his Substack:- https://cliffordgarstang.com/- https://cliffordgarstang.substack.com/This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s “Getting to Know You” series celebrating the launch of Big Blend Media House and its new newsletter, Front Porch News. Visit: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "California Employment Law" Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs explains how California commission laws impact both employers and employees, including the legal differences between inside and outside sales roles, minimum wage protections, overtime exemptions, independent contractor concerns, and why written commission agreements are essential.The conversation explores how commission structures work in real-world sales environments, from retail and automotive sales to remote work and field sales positions. Ward also discusses California’s legal requirements for commission contracts, what happens when commissions are delayed or disputed, and why vague language in agreements can lead to costly litigation.Whether you’re a business owner creating compensation plans or a salesperson reviewing a commission agreement, this episode offers valuable insight into protecting your rights and understanding California employment law.📖 Read Ward’s article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-sales-commission-laws-2026 Explore Ward’s Digital Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-employment-law-magazine Connect with Ward Heinrichs:- https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ward-heinrichs/ 🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-employment-law-with-ward-heinrichs 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures" Podcast, travel writer Debbie Stone shares her immersive experiences exploring the vibrant culture, cuisine, music, and history of Buenos Aires, Argentina.From hands-on cooking classes featuring traditional empanadas and Argentine specialties to passionate tango performances, Debbie highlights the sights, sounds, and flavors that make Buenos Aires one of South America’s most captivating cities. The conversation also explores iconic landmarks like the world-renowned Teatro Colón and the colorful neighborhood of Caminito, along with the city’s European-inspired architecture, thriving arts scene, and celebrated wine culture.Discover how food, dance, and storytelling intertwine to create an unforgettable cultural experience, while also gaining inspiration for exploring more of Argentina’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes.🧩 Explore all 4 of Debbie’s Buenos Aires articles and enjoy a jigsaw puzzle of Caminito's colorful murals: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/colorful-murals-of-caminito-jigsaw-puzzle FOLLOW DEBBIE'S ADVENTURES including her podcast, digital travel magazine, and more: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/debbie-stone-travel-writer 

This Memorial Day weekend episode of Big Blend Radio features author Margaret Whitford who discusses her powerful new memoir, "The History We Carry, A Daughter's Memoir," releasing June 2, 2026 through She Writes Press.In this moving conversation, Margaret reflects on the emotional legacy of war, family estrangement, inherited trauma, and the healing power of storytelling. As families across America honor loved ones on Memorial Day, this episode explores how the devastation of World War II continues to ripple through generations, shaping identity, relationships, and emotional well-being.Margaret shares how her mother’s experiences—including war, violence, and trauma—created emotional distance within their relationship, and how writing this memoir became a path toward compassion, understanding, and healing. The conversation also explores PTSD, epigenetics, silence within families, resilience, and the importance of telling our stories.Pre-order and learn more about Margaret Whitford and "The History We Carry" at https://margaretwhitford.com/books/the-history-we-carry/  

In Part One of this special Big Blend Radio “Music Success Insider” series, we celebrate the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com and its Front Porch News newsletter by putting acclaimed musician, producer, and educator Joey Stuckey in the spotlight.Known as Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador, Joey shares his inspiring journey through the music industry as a blind artist, producer, podcaster, and entrepreneur. The conversation explores the importance of artistic authenticity, community, eclectic musical influences, and finding your audience in an ever-changing media landscape.Joey also discusses Macon’s legendary music history, the evolution of music discovery through the internet, and why honesty, courage, curiosity, and dedication are essential for long-term creative success.Joey Stuckey is cohost of Big Blend Radio's "Music Talks" Podcast every 4th Sunday. Learn more about Joey Stuckey: https://www.joeystuckey.com/ Explore Big Blend Media House & Subscribe to Front Porch News: https://bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

As we honor and remember the fallen this Memorial Day weekend, we look at how the quiet, open landscapes of Britain hold the secrets to centuries of conflict, shifting power, and historical memory. From Roman invasions and Viking raids to the pivotal Norman Conquest of 1066, these spaces serve as a powerful link to our shared ancestry.In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast, resident historian Glynn Burrows of Norfolk Tours explores the rich history of battle sites across England, Scotland, and Wales. Discover why so little remains visible on these open battlefields, how these sacred spaces are preserved today out of respect for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and why touring them offers a fantastic window into the details of local and national history. Whether you are tracking Roman forts along Hadrian's Wall or following Harold's hasty march from Stamford Bridge to Battle, Glynn shares expert travel tips and insights for mapping out your own historical itinerary.Important Links:- Read Glynn's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/touring-battlefields-of-britain - Connect with Glynn: https://www.englishconnection.uk/ - Follow the Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-podcast - Check out the Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-magazine 

In this special “Getting to Know You” episode of Big Blend Radio, we chat with author, environmental attorney, geologist, and eco-conscious living expert Cheryl Leutjen about sustainability, creativity, community building, and finding joy in challenging times.Known as “The Eco-Worrier,” Cheryl shares how humor, playfulness, and intentional gatherings can help people reconnect with nature and each other. From creating pollinator gardens and fairy gardens to hosting eco-chic parties with purpose, this inspiring conversation explores practical ways to live more consciously while still embracing fun, beauty, and celebration.The discussion also highlights Cheryl’s upcoming book, "Party on Purpose: Your Complete Guide to Eco-Chic Entertaining," along with her passion for protecting Earth’s Life Support Systems through everyday action and meaningful community connection.Learn more about Cheryl and subscribe to her newsletter:https://cherylleutjen.com/ https://loveearthnow.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/loveearthnow/ This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s new “Getting to Know You” series celebrating the new Big Blend Media House and its "Front Porch" Newsletter. Visit: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Beyond the Stage" episode features the full lineup of Jada’s Priest, a powerhouse tribute band dedicated to the legendary music of Judas Priest.Recorded onsite at Mars Theatre Brewing Company in Mars Hill NC — a restored 1940s theater transformed into a brewery and live music venue — this episode of the Beyond the Stage series dives into the passion, musicianship, and energy behind one of Tennessee’s premier metal tribute acts.Hosts Mr. & Mrs. Wild sit down with all members of the band including “Jada” Leslie England (vocals), Bruce England (guitar), Ella Marston (guitar), Pepper TN (bass), and Karman Gossett (drums) to talk about their musical backgrounds, performing iconic Judas Priest songs, and what it takes to recreate the sound and spirit of one of heavy metal’s most influential bands.Based in Knoxville, Jada’s Priest is committed to honoring the Metal Gods through electrifying live performances that celebrate the raw energy, soaring vocals, and twin-guitar attack that helped define classic heavy metal.Hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Wild — owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s Adventures in Asheville Podcast — this episode celebrates live music, tribute artistry, and the enduring power of metal culture.LINKS & RESOURCESJada’s Priest: https://jadaspriest.com/ Jada’s Priest on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/774224932435854/ Jada’s Priest on YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=NJM-NrUZNx0 Mars Theatre Brewing Company: https://www.marstheatrebrewingco.com/ The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/