Big Blend Radio

Can independent contractors legally earn commissions in California? The answer is more complicated than you might think.In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Employment Law" Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs explores the intersection of California commission laws and independent contractor classification under AB5. The discussion examines who can legally receive commissions, the distinctions between employees and independent contractors, and why written commission agreements are essential for protecting both workers and businesses.Ward explains how California law treats commission-based compensation, the legal protections available to commissioned employees, and why certain professions—including attorneys, brokers, and some exempt workers—may operate differently under the law. The conversation also covers outside salespersons, expense reimbursement, multi-state employment considerations, and how AB5 continues to shape California's workforce.Whether you're an employer, salesperson, business owner, or independent contractor, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating California's evolving employment landscape.📖 Read Ward's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/independent-contractors-commission 🌐 Learn more about Ward Heinrichs: https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ 🔗 Connect with Ward on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ward-heinrichs/ 📘 Explore the California Employment Law Digital Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-employment-law-magazine 🎧 Listen to more California Employment Law Podcast episodes: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-employment-law-with-ward-heinrichs 

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures" Podcast, travel writer Debbie Stone explores the captivating city of Córdoba, Spain, where centuries of Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences have created one of Europe's most fascinating cultural landscapes.A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Córdoba invites visitors to wander its winding historic streets, discover architectural masterpieces, and uncover stories that span more than two thousand years. Debbie shares highlights from her journey, including the awe-inspiring Mezquita-Catedral, one of the world's most remarkable examples of Islamic and Christian architecture, and the historic Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a fortress that played a significant role in Spanish history.The conversation also delves into Córdoba's celebrated traditions, from colorful festivals and lively plazas to the elegance of the famed Andalusian horses, whose performances reflect the region's enduring cultural heritage.Whether you're drawn to history, architecture, or immersive cultural experiences, this episode reveals why Córdoba remains one of Spain's most extraordinary destinations.📖 Read Debbie's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/cordoba-spain 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 📚 Explore Debbie's Global Adventures Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/ 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, bestselling and award-winning historical fiction author Pam Webber discusses her new novel, "Massawa: A Tale of Illusion, Espionage, and Love," the first book in a new World War II series inspired by the little-known "Miracle of Massawa" in Eritrea, North Africa.Set in 1942 during the height of World War II, the novel follows fledgling OSS agent Kit Thomas as she embarks on her first mission to investigate the theft of military payroll funds and uncover a dangerous conspiracy threatening Allied operations in the Red Sea region. Along the way, readers encounter espionage, deception, romance, wartime intrigue, and the remarkable story of the women who served as spies during WWII.In this fascinating conversation, Pam shares the real history behind the novel, including the role of the OSS—the precursor to the CIA—how women were recruited into intelligence work, the influence of MI6 on American spy training, and the strategic importance of North Africa in the Allied war effort. She also discusses her extensive research, from declassified documents to personal letters, and how she created her courageous protagonist, Kit Thomas.Learn more about Pam Webber and her books at https://www.pamwebber.com Visit Big Blend's new home: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

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/