Share

Big Blend Radio
Experence the History of George Washington Carver
This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the life and history of George Washington Carver, the acclaimed botanist, scientist, educator, and inventor who changed the world of agriculture in the south. From Missouri to Iowa, Texas, and beyond, his legacy is part of the Jefferson Highway. A key place to experience his story is at the George Washington Carver National Monument, the first unit of the National Park Service dedicated to an African American
Featured Guests:
- Roger Bell - Historian and President of the Jefferson Highway Association
- Paxton J. Williams - Actor/Playwright/Chautauqua Scholar; creator and performing of the one-man play, "Listening to the Still Small Voice.ā
Created by the Jefferson Highway Association which was originally founded in 1915, the Jefferson Highway is an international highway, also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway," that runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at: jeffersonhighway.org/
Special thanks to the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau who represent Louisiana's Oldest City, which is also on the Jefferson Highway. See: www.natchitoches.com/
More episodes
View all episodes
An Italian Cooking Class in Rome
12:00|In this episode of Big Blend Radioās āGlobal Adventures with Debbie Stone,ā travel writer Debbie Stone shares her delicious hands-on experience in an Italian cooking class in Rome. From crafting fresh pasta with 00 flour to layering the perfect tiramisu, Debbie dives into the culinary traditions of Italy and the joy of learning by doing.The conversation highlights the cultural value of food, the unique flavor and texture of homemade pasta, and the connection that comes from cooking and sharing a meal with fellow travelers. Whether you're a novice or seasoned home cook, Debbieās insights will inspire you to roll up your sleeves and taste the experience.š Key Takeaways:⢠Cooking classes deepen appreciation for local cuisine.⢠Tiramisu means āpick me upā ā thanks to its coffee kick.⢠Zero zero (00) flour is key to pasta-making success.⢠Homemade pasta cooks in two minutes and tastes distinct.⢠Culinary learning brings fun, community, and cultural insight.⢠You donāt need prior experience to enjoy cooking classes.⢠Traveling through food creates lasting memories.š Read Debbieās article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/complement-your-visit-to-rome-with-an-italian-cooking-class/ š§ Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ šļø Also featured on Big Blend Radioās āEat, Drink & Be Merryā Channel:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkTaste the Flavors of Madrid
13:34|On this episode of Big Blend Radioās āGlobal Adventures with Debbie Stone,ā travel writer Debbie Stone shares her mouthwatering culinary experience on The Tour Guyās Ultimate Drinks and Tapas Tour in Madrid, Spain.From savory tortillas to sizzling mushrooms and refreshing Tinto de Verano, Debbie explores the essence of Spanish cuisine through local food traditions, lively tapas bars, and cultural storytelling. Tune in as she chats about the origins of the tapa, the difference between Spanish and Mexican tortillas, and why food is one of the most flavorful ways to connect with a destinationās culture and history.š Key Takeaways:⢠Tapas introduce travelers to the heart of Spanish food culture.⢠The word "tapa" originally referred to covering drinks.⢠Spanish tortilla is made with eggs and potatoes ā not to be confused with the Mexican version!⢠Mushrooms are a star ingredient in Madridās food scene.⢠Beer and Tinto de Verano are popular local drinks.⢠Food tours are a delicious and fulfilling way to explore history and community.š Read Debbieās article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/taste-the-flavors-of-madrid-on-a-culinary-adventure/ š§ Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ šļø Also featured on Big Blend Radioās āEat, Drink & Be Merryā Channel:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkCorpus Christi, Texas: The Birdiest City in the USA
33:51|Celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radioās āTravel with Terriā Show featuring travel writer Terri Guthrie, who shares her recent adventures in Corpus Christi, Texasāofficially known as the Birdiest City in America!From vibrant wetlands and hundreds of bird species to the famous annual birding festival, Corpus Christi is a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Terri highlights the Texas State Aquariumās rescue and education programs, wildlife-rich Padre Island National Seashore, and the legendary King Ranch, a leader in conservation and habitat restoration.Beyond its natural wonders, Corpus Christi offers a flavorful mix of cultural and culinary delights, from fresh Gulf seafood to live music and true Texas hospitality.š Read Terriās article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/corpus-christi-the-birdiest-city-in-america/ šļø Plan your trip: https://www.visitcorpuschristi.com/ šļø Listen weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ š§ Also featured on Big Blend Radioās Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, Nature Connection, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkExploring the Hidden Gems of Birmingham with Cherith Glover Fulker
26:25|On this episode of Big Blend Radioās 3rd Monday āFood, Wine & Travelā Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer and author Cherith Glover Fulker talks about her upcoming book, Secret Birmingham: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure (Reedy Press, Aug. 1, 2025).From jazz legends and civil rights history to cast iron giants and century-old baseball fields, Cherith shares fascinating and lesser-known stories that make Birmingham, Alabama a truly unforgettable destination. Learn about the city's vibrant food scene, family-friendly attractions, and the power of community connection. Cherith also opens up about her journey into travel writing and how personal history and curiosity fuel her work.š§ Listen in for:- Birminghamās unique cultural legacy and quirky landmarks- The story behind the Vulcanāthe worldās largest cast iron statue- Hidden gems like Rickwood Field, the oldest baseball park in the U.S.- Cherithās travel writing origins and the inspiration behind her book- Why local voices and community engagement matterš Get the book: "Secret Birmingham" ā https://reedypress.com/author/fluker/cherith-fluker/ š Follow Cherithās adventures: https://whatcherithinks.com/ š· Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org šļø Subscribe for more episodes: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.comThe Flavorful World of Chinatowns
46:28|In celebration of National Fortune Cookie Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio explores the vibrant culture, cuisine, and heritage of Chinatowns around the world. From Singapore to San Francisco to Boston, discover how these neighborhoods serve as gateways to rich cultural traditions and unforgettable culinary experiences.Featured guests include:š Jeffrey Spear ā Branding expert, food/travel writer, and author of My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure, which shares his personal and flavorful journey through the world of food. Learn more at: https://spearwrites.com š Clifford Garstang ā Award-winning author, world traveler, and writer of the new novel The Last Bird of Paradise, which explores themes of identity, history, and cultural connection. More at: https://cliffordgarstang.com Together, they share insights into the evolution of Chinese cuisine in America, the importance of festivals like Chinese New Year, and the fascinating (and very American) origin of the fortune cookie. Itās a lively and delicious conversation that celebrates cultural diversity, storytelling, and the power of food to bring people together.Discover Downtown Silver City, New Mexico - Art, Culture & Charm
38:06|Discover the historical significance that shapes this unique destination, understand the impact of tourism on its dynamic culture, and delve into the diverse offerings that make Silver City a must-visit locale. Known as "The Gateway to the Continental Divide Trail," Silver City also serves as the main hub for adventurers exploring the breathtaking Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, Gila National Forest, and Gila Wilderness Area.Key Takeaways from this Episode:- An Artistic Gem: Learn why Silver City is celebrated as an incredible art town.- Strong Community Bonds: Explore how the downtown area fosters a profound sense of community and connection.- A United Spirit: Hear about the town's ability to come together, showcasing a deep sense of community pride and mutual support.- Culture at its Core: Understand how art and culture are central to Silver City's identity.- Festive Spirit: Discover the local festivals that passionately celebrate the community's artistic spirit.- Diverse Culinary Scene: Get a taste of Silver City's growing and diverse culinary offerings.- Historic Charm: Appreciate how historic buildings contribute to the town's unique charm.- University Synergy: Learn about the beneficial relationship with the local university that enhances cultural events.- Preserving Heritage: Witness the strong community pride evident in the preservation of historic sites.- Welcoming Destination: Find out why visitors are warmly welcomed and encouraged to explore every corner of the area.Resources Mentioned:- Read Victoriaās article āSilver City Has Surprisesā here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/silver-city-new-mexico-has-surprises/ - View Victoria Chickās portfolio: https://victoriachick.com/ - Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/ Tune in to Big Blend Radio's World of Art Podcast every 3rd Saturday for engaging conversations on art history, contemporary art, museum culture, and more: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radioās āToast to The Arts,ā āBig Daily Blend,ā āVacation Station,ā and āParks & Travelā travel podcast channels. Explore the entire network of educational and arts-focused shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkHappy Hour Picnic Party in Nature
51:45|Join us for a delightful "Happy Hour Hang Out" on Big Blend Radio as we celebrate National Picnic Month and Parks & Recreation Month! This engaging episode explores the pure joy of picnicking, the profound benefits of connecting with nature, and our favorite spots and foods for an outdoor feast from Arizona to England. We dive into the calming practice of forest bathing, the therapeutic power of nature's sounds, and the breathtaking beauty of Arizona's diverse landscapes, from vibrant wildflower seasons to dramatic monsoon experiences. Discover how nature can positively impact mental health and the simple pleasure of sharing picnics with loved ones, whether in your local park or while traveling the world.Featured Guests:* Judy Karnia ā Travel writer and forest bathing guide. Learn more at https://travelingnature.com/ * Eva Eldridge ā Traveler, writer, editor, and book publishing expert. Discover more at https://evaeldridge.com/ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radioās āBig Daily Blend,ā āEat, Drink & Be Merry,ā and āParks & Travelā podcasts. Explore our network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkIs Your Workplace Culture Healthy or Toxic?
38:09|In this episode of Big Blend Radioās "Supervision Matters" Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (author of Supervision Matters and Leading for Justice) explores the complexities of workplace culture, focusing on what distinguishes a healthy environment from a toxic one. She dives into how leadership, communication, HR, and employee feedback play essential roles in shaping and maintaining a positive work culture.Rita shares actionable insights on building inclusive, value-aligned organizations and emphasizes that culture is not staticāit requires continuous reflection and evolution. She also discusses the influence of external societal pressures on internal dynamics and highlights the crucial role HR professionals play in sustaining a thriving workplace.š§ Whether you're in leadership, HR, or part of a team looking to create a better workplace, this episode delivers practical and powerful guidance.š Key Takeaways:- Feedback is essential for fostering a healthy workplace culture.- External societal issues can influence workplace dynamics.- Leadership plays a crucial role in shaping organizational culture.- Culture is defined by how employees interact and align with values.- Hiring practices should reflect the desired culture of the organization.- Workplace culture is not static; it requires ongoing assessment.- Identifying signs of a healthy culture is as important as recognizing toxicity.- Effective communication is key to maintaining a positive culture.- Employee feedback should be collected and acted upon regularly.- HR professionals are vital in promoting a healthy work culture.š Download Ritaās Free Workplace Culture Guide: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/rysh/ š Resources & Links:š Visit Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ šļø Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/ š Discover more business & career podcasts on Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetworkCelebrating 5 Years of Pet Sitting Travel
01:05:10|Join Nancy and Lisa, your hosts of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" show, as they celebrate a remarkable milestone: five incredible years of full-time pet sitting and travel with TrustedHousesitters!In this special anniversary episode, we dive into the joys and unique experiences of pet sitting. The conversations highlight the vital role of community and clear communication in building trust and creating meaningful, immersive travel experiences. From furry friends to fascinating scaly companions and even feathered friends, Nancy and Lisa, and their guests, share their adventures caring for a diverse array of animals in homes across the country and around the globe.We're thrilled to be joined by special guests who share their own stories and insights:- ANGELA LAWS ā A veteran pet sitter, grief counselor, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com - JUDY KARNIA ā Travel writer, nature therapist, retired feline veterinarian, and pet sitter: https://travelingnature.com/ - JP & WANDA BROWN ā Retired professionals living their dream pet sitting life (see their profile: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/house-and-pet-sitters/united-states/florida/tallahassee/l/2853494) Discover the heartwarming connections formed, the variety of animals cared for, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. This episode emphasizes how pet sitting offers a sustainable and enriching lifestyle for travelers and a truly caring solution for pet parents. Tune in to hear how our hosts and guests have turned their passion for pets into a fulfilling adventure, proving that caring for animals enriches life!Key Takeaways from This Episode:- Pet sitting fosters a unique community of animal lovers.- TrustedHousesitters bridges the gap between travelers and pet parents.- Clear communication builds essential trust.- Pet sitting enables deeply immersive travel experiences.- Routine and familiar environments help pets thrive.- Unexpected friendships often blossom on the road.- Understanding pet behavior is crucial for effective care.- Pet sitters frequently provide extra attention to pets.- The variety of animals encountered is vast.Pet sitting leads to life-changing experiences and connections.š¾ Listen to more "Pet Connection" episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com