Big Blend Radio

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/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the fascinating story of America's early motor camping movement and how it forever changed road travel, tourism, and hospitality across the United States.As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Their featured guest is Daniel Hershberger, roadside historian, researcher, and presenter at the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration in Joplin, Missouri.Long before today's RV parks, campgrounds, and roadside motels, adventurous motorists packed tents and supplies into their automobiles and headed out to explore America's growing network of highways. Daniel shares how motor camping evolved from a practical way to travel into a nationwide pastime that helped shape roadside tourism, local businesses, and the American road trip tradition.The conversation also explores the evolution of tourist camps, the rise of auto courts and motels, the development of roadside hospitality, and the important role the Jefferson Highway played in connecting communities and encouraging travel across North America.Roger Bell also shares updates on the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri. Daniel Hershberger will be one of the featured presenters, sharing his research on America's early motor camping movement and roadside tourism. The event also includes special Sociability Caravan motor tours celebrating the Jefferson Highway and Route 66. Registration is now open at https://jeffersonhighway.org/. 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. Visit: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ LEARN MORE: - Plan your own Jefferson Highway adventure with the new Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ - Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch:https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/ - Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every fourth Thursday (except holidays). Follow the podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

Recent federal changes to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) guidance are reshaping how employers approach hiring, promotions, and workplace policies—and artificial intelligence (AI) is adding another layer of legal complexity.In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Employment Law" Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs explains the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC) recent changes to Title VII guidance, what they mean for employers, and why merit-based employment decisions have become more important than ever.Ward also discusses the growing role of AI in hiring, the importance of reviewing automated hiring systems for bias, and how employers can stay compliant as federal and California employment laws continue to evolve.Whether you're a business owner, HR professional, manager, or employee, this episode provides practical legal insights into navigating today's changing workplace.📖 Read Ward's companion article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/dei-under-title-vii 🌐 Ward Heinrichs' Employment Law Office:https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ 🔗 Connect with Ward on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ward-heinrichs/ 📘 Explore Ward's California Employment Law Digital Podcast Magazine: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/california-employment-law-digital-podcast-magazine/ 🎧 Listen to more California Employment Law Podcast episodes:https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/ 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the hidden gems, fascinating history, and scenic beauty of Vancouver, Washington—a destination that deserves a spot on every Pacific Northwest itinerary.Located along the Columbia River just across from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver blends rich American history with vibrant waterfront experiences, beautiful parks, and easy access to some of the Northwest's most spectacular landscapes. Lisa shares highlights from visiting Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, the first U.S. military post in the Pacific Northwest, strolling historic Officer's Row, exploring Pearson Field, one of America's oldest operating airfields, and taking in breathtaking views throughout the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.The episode also includes a day trip into Portland to experience the famous International Rose Test Garden and historic Pittock Mansion, along with recommendations for riverfront dining, local wineries, and a stay at the stylish Hotel Indigo Vancouver Waterfront. Whether you're planning a Pacific Northwest road trip, exploring destinations for America's 250th birthday, or simply looking for a city that blends history, nature, music, and culinary experiences, Vancouver, Washington offers an unforgettable adventure.🗺️ Vancouver, Washington Travel Planning Resources- Visit Vancouver Washington: https://www.visitvancouverwa.com/ - Hotel Indigo Vancouver Waterfront: https://www.vancouverwaterfronthotel.com/ - Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: https://www.nps.gov/fova/index.htm - Pearson Field at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: https://www.nps.gov/fova/learn/historyculture/pearson.htm - Officer's Row: https://www.visitvancouverwa.com/things-to-do/historic-sites-and-museums/officers-row/ - Whipple Creek Regional Park: https://clark.wa.gov/public-works/whipple-creek-regional-park - Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/columbiarivergorge - Cape Horn Overlook: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/columbiarivergorge/recreation/cape-horn-overlook 🌹 Continue Your Pacific Northwest Adventure- Lisa's companion episode, "Exploring Portland, Oregon: The Rose City": https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/e/portland-oregon-rose-city/ KEEP UP WITH LISA- Follow Lisa's Stories: https://writerlisa.com/  - Follow Lisa on Substack: https://substack.com/@allabouttravelwithlisa - Subscribe to Journey Jukebox: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/  - Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596  - Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 

From legendary restaurants and iconic cocktails to world-famous festivals and unforgettable culinary traditions, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) serves up A Taste of New Orleans with Mary Beth Romig, Assistant Vice President of Public Relations for New Orleans & Company Visit New Orleans Discover why New Orleans continues to rank among America's greatest food destinations as Mary Beth shares insider tips on planning the perfect culinary getaway. Learn about historic restaurants like Antoine's and Tujague's, Michelin-recognized dining, James Beard Award-winning chefs, neighborhood food experiences, brunch culture, late-night eats, boutique hotels, and iconic cocktails like the Sazerac.The conversation also spotlights some of the city's biggest culinary celebrations, including Tales of the Cocktail, COOLinary New Orleans, French Quarter Festival, Jazz Fest, Fried Chicken Festival, Creole Tomato Festival, Réveillon dining during the holidays, and many more events that showcase the city's incredible food, music, and community spirit.Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another unforgettable adventure, this episode proves there's always something delicious waiting in New Orleans.👉 Plan your New Orleans getaway: https://www.neworleans.com/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🌐 Follow the Big Blend Radio "Food, Wine & Travel" 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 Photos courtesy NewOrleans.com

Recovery continues across Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana, following the historic flooding caused by Tropical Storm Arthur. In this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast, Executive Director Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism joins Father Martin Laird of Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church in Plaucheville and Immaculate Conception Church in DuPont to share firsthand stories of resilience, faith, volunteerism, and the incredible spirit of the community.The conversation highlights how neighbors, churches, first responders, businesses, and volunteers united to help families recover after record-breaking rainfall. The episode also explores how travelers can support the local economy by visiting Avoyelles Parish's attractions, restaurants, festivals, and small businesses as recovery continues.The show concludes with hope for the future, emphasizing that while much rebuilding remains, Avoyelles Parish is open for visitors and grateful for every act of support.Flood Relief & Area Information- Support Avoyelles Parish recovery through the Diocese of Alexandria Flood Relief efforts: https://www.diocesealex.org/avoyelles-flood-relief/ - Learn more and plan a future visit: https://travelavoyelles.com/ 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "World of Art" Podcast, artist and art historian Victoria Chick explores the remarkable life and legacy of Jack Levine (1915–2010), one of America's most influential political and social realist artists. Known for his satirical paintings and prints, Levine fearlessly used art to challenge authority, expose corruption, and capture the human condition with wit, compassion, and extraordinary technical skill.Victoria discusses Levine's humble beginnings in Boston, his rise through the Works Progress Administration (WPA), and the influences that shaped his distinctive artistic voice. The conversation explores how artists become powerful storytellers, why observation and integrity are essential to creative expression, and how art continues to inspire meaningful dialogue across generations.The episode also celebrates the ongoing development of the Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center in Silver City, New Mexico. Victoria shares updates on the museum project and invites listeners to attend upcoming exhibitions and special events that celebrate American art and creativity.Victoria is a contemporary figurative artist, a collector of early 19th and 20th-century American prints, and the visionary spearheading the development of the Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center in Silver City, New Mexico.🎨 MARK YOUR CALENDAR!The Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center is hosting two special exhibition weekends featuring "American Etching Revival" and "Five Artists Do the West," along with hands-on art activities for children and families.📅 October 10–11 & October 17–18Learn more about the exhibitions and upcoming events: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/exhibits-events 🌐 MORE TO EXPLORE- Read Victoria's article on Jack Levine: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/articles/jack-levine-american-political-artist - Victoria Chick: https://victoriachick.com/ - Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/ - World of Art Podcast: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/ - Big Blend Media House: https://bigblendmediahouse.com/ This episode is part of Big Blend Radio's America 250 programming, celebrating the artists and creative visionaries who have shaped America's cultural heritage.

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