Big Blend Radio

Welcome to the launch of "Before They Vanish," a Big Blend Radio podcast hosted by explorer, author, and naturalist James Michael Dorsey and produced by Lisa D. Smith.In this debut episode, James takes us on a journey through a lifetime of extraordinary adventures — from his first trip to Kenya where a chance meeting with a Maasai elder sparked a 30-year obsession with vanishing tribal cultures, to sleeping in caves in Tanzania, being used as baboon bait by the Hazda people, and feeding his dinner to a feral cat at a Chinese Air Force base. Along the way he reflects on what it means to give a voice to cultures that may not exist much longer, why he taught himself photography to prove his stories were real, and how a pension from the post office set him free to explore the world.James has visited over 60 countries, documented more than 100 tribal and indigenous cultures, published nearly 1,000 essays, and authored four books. In our Getting to Know You segment he shares his spirit animal, his worst and best meals in the field, what he'd put in a 500-year time capsule, and the one superpower he'd choose to keep exploring as he gets older.Books by James Michael Dorsey:— The Lagoon: Encounters with the Whales of San Ignacio— Baboons for Lunch and Other Sordid Adventures— Vanishing Tales from Ancient Trails— Tears, Fear and AdventureLearn more about James and his books at https://jamesmichaeldorseyauthor.com/ New episodes of Before They Vanish air every 4th Monday at 4pm PST on Big Blend Radio. Subscribe from our favorite platform: https://before-they-vanish.podbean.com/ More about Big Blend Radio at https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

In recognition of World Rainforest Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Podcast features co-directors Rob Grobman and Chelsea Greene who discuss their acclaimed documentary film, "We Are Guardians," produced by Oscar-winning filmmaker, actor, and environmental activist Fisher Stevens.Available worldwide on digital platforms including Amazon, Apple TV, and Tubi, "We Are Guardians" takes viewers deep into the Brazilian Amazon, where Indigenous Guardians risk their lives to protect one of Earth's most vital ecosystems from illegal logging, mining, land grabbing, and deforestation.The conversation explores the complex intersections of politics, economics, history, science, and environmental stewardship while highlighting the critical role Indigenous communities play in safeguarding the rainforest. Rob and Chelsea share how the film came together, the dangers they faced while filming, and the hope they found through the resilience, courage, and leadership of the people working to protect the Amazon.They also discuss how deforestation impacts global climate stability, biodiversity, freshwater resources, and local communities, and share practical ways individuals can support conservation efforts through advocacy, consumer choices, and direct action.Watch the film, host a screening, support Indigenous Guardians, and learn more at https://www.weareguardiansfilm.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast takes a reflective look at faith, resilience, and community in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana.The show begins with a special message from Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism, regarding the historic flooding currently impacting communities throughout Avoyelles Parish and the remarkable resilience of local residents, volunteers, first responders, and organizations working together to help those affected.Recorded onsite in Bunkie, Louisiana, hosts Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith visit David Haas Memorial United Methodist Church and talk with William Tebow about the church's remarkable journey following a devastating fire that nearly destroyed the historic sanctuary. Through faith, determination, and community support, the congregation rebuilt and renewed a beloved gathering place that continues to serve as a symbol of hope.The conversation explores the importance of community, the role churches play in small-town life, and how adversity often brings people together. Listeners will hear stories of neighbors helping neighbors, churches supporting one another across denominations, and the enduring spirit that defines Avoyelles Parish.🔗 Learn more about Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana: https://travelavoyelles.com/ 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/ 🔗Visit Big Blend's new digital home: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

Happy Summer! On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink, and Be Merry" Show, Robert Schueller of Melissa's Produce joins us for a virtual summer foodie shopping spree to stock the brand-new digital Big Blend Media House — pantry, fridge, freezer, wine cellar, backyard grill, poolside bar, and wellness retreat included.From Petite Pinkglow and Colada Royale pineapples to dragon fruit, tree-ripened mangoes, cherimoya, Moscato grapes, passion fruit, lychees, rhubarb, mini cucumbers, Marzano tomatoes, jicama, gemstone potatoes, steamed beans and lentils, sweet tamarind, ginger and turmeric, hatch onions, shishito peppers, custom spice grinders, shallots, clean snacks, kettle corn, and gourmet dessert crêpes — this is the ultimate summer shopping list, tied to the foodie holidays worth celebrating all season long.Read the full companion article and get recipes and direct links to every item at: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/a-fresh-taste-of-summer-melissas Shop all of Melissa's Produce at: https://www.melissas.com/ Visit the new Big Blend Media House at https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "World of Art" Podcast, artist and art historian Victoria Chick explores the life and legacy of Fletcher Martin (1904–1979)—a self-taught American artist whose talent, determination, and keen powers of observation helped him become one of the most respected illustrators and muralists of his era.From humble beginnings in the American West to working as a boxer, miner, illustrator, muralist, teacher, and war correspondent, Martin lived the experiences he later captured through his art. Victoria discusses how his unconventional path shaped his artistic voice, his work on Depression-era post office murals, his illustrations for major publications, and the inspirational approach he brought to teaching aspiring artists.The conversation also highlights the importance of preserving artistic heritage, the role of observation in creative development, and how artists can remain true to their own vision while learning from those who came before them.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.🔗LINKS & RESOURCES:- Victoria’s article on Fletcher Martin: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/artist-fletcher-martin - Victoria Chick: https://victoriachick.com/ - Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/ - World of Art Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/the-world-of-art-podcast   

In celebration of Dog Dad Day (June 20), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" series spotlights mystery and historical fiction author Matt Cost, whose love of dogs, storytelling, and creative adventure shines in both his books and everyday life.Through a fun seven-question game, Matt shares insights into his writing journey, favorite hobbies, life lessons, future goals, and the canine companions who have inspired characters throughout his mystery novels. From his popular Maine-based mystery series and thriller adventures to upcoming historical mysteries, Matt offers a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process, the power of storytelling, and why his advice to aspiring writers is simple: "Just do it."Listeners will also get a glimpse into the imaginative concept behind Big Blend Media House, the new digital home where curiosity, creativity, and community come together.Pssst! Matt is also preparing to launch the new Big Blend Radio podcast "Pets, Plots & Poisons" with fellow author B.J. Magnani. Premiering this August and airing every third Thursday, the show will explore mysteries, crime fiction, pets, storytelling, and the creative lives of authors.Learn more about Matt Cost: https://www.mattcost.net/Check Out Matt's Big Blend "Author Success Insider" Q&A:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/author-success-insider-matt-cost/Explore Big Blend Media House: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/

In this thought-provoking (and shared) episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) examines one of the most common—and potentially problematic—workplace metaphors: the idea that coworkers are "family."While the concept is often intended to foster connection and belonging, Rita explains how the family metaphor can blur boundaries, create unrealistic expectations, and introduce unhealthy power dynamics into the workplace. Unlike families, work relationships are professional, with defined roles, responsibilities, and accountability structures.This conversation explores how language shapes organizational culture and why leaders should be intentional about the metaphors they use. Rita discusses the difference between chosen and assigned family, the risks of parental and child roles in supervision, and how these dynamics can undermine trust, transparency, and effective communication.Rather than viewing organizations as families, Rita encourages leaders to think in terms of teams—whether a sports team, jazz ensemble, or another collaborative model. By fostering transparency, ownership, and shared purpose, organizations can create healthier cultures where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Supervision Matters Digital Podcast Magazine:  https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Supervision-Matters-Magazine-2026/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/ 

In celebration of Foster a Pet Month, this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" podcast is part of our "Getting to Know You" series spotlighting the people behind our shows and celebrating the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com.This episode features co-host Angela Laws, Head of Charitable Partnerships and External Engagement at TrustedHousesitters, who shares her inspiring journey through pet sitting, purposeful travel, animal welfare, and community building.A lifelong animal lover, Angela discusses how pet sitting became a lifestyle that has allowed her to experience cultures around the world while caring for pets and helping pet parents travel with peace of mind. From meaningful travel experiences and cultural discoveries to charitable work supporting animal rescue and fostering, Angela reflects on the trust, communication, and compassion that connect people through a shared love of animals.The conversation also explores the benefits of slow travel, the emotional bonds between pets and their people, favorite destinations, life lessons learned through travel, and the importance of supporting animal welfare organizations.🐾 Learn more about TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ 🏡 Explore Big Blend Media House: https://bigblendmediahouse.com/ 🎧 Listen to more "Pet Connection" episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com/ 

In Part One of her new "Lessons Learned from Travel" series, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares a memorable story from her award-winning travel memoir, Lost Angel Walkabout.In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show, Linda reads an excerpt from her story "Look Both Ways on Small Islands," recounting her first international solo adventure to Tahiti. What began as a dream trip through Bora Bora and Moorea quickly turned into an unexpected lesson in awareness, perception, and personal safety when local authorities mistakenly suspected her of involvement in a drug investigation. Linda reflects on the travel lessons she learned from the experience, including the importance of situational awareness, trusting your instincts, and understanding that when you travel, you're never as anonymous as you think. The conversation also explores solo travel, personal growth, travel safety, and how these early adventures ultimately inspired the title of her book series, "Lost Angel Adventures."📖 Listen to the audiobook edition of Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales on Audible: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Angel-Walkabout-Travelers-Tales/dp/ 🌍 Follow Linda's Books & Adventures:https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST. Subscribe from your favorite podcast platform: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/