Big Blend Radio

Author Rayne Lacko - The Secret Song of Shelby Rey

As part of Big Blend Radio’s National Family Month programming, award-winning author Rayne Lacko joins us to talk about her upper YA novel "The Secret Song of Shelby Rey." This gritty and emotional coming-of-age story follows a teen navigating the uncertainty of early adulthood through the lens of music, love, addiction, and self-discovery.
In this episode, Rayne explores how music can be a tool for healing, how young people form identity, the role of parents in their journey, and the power of literature to help teens feel less alone.
Learn more: https://raynelacko.com/ 

Author Catharina Steel - Vanishings

Celebrate National Family Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio featuring debut author Catharina Steel who shares the inspiration behind "Vanishings," the first book in The Wythic Wood Mysteries, a middle grade fantasy series. Follow young Tilly’s magical adventure through Clayton Forest and Wythic Woods as she searches for her missing cousin—encountering wizards, creatures, and goblin martial arts known as Gobight along the way.
Catharina talks about her journey to becoming a writer, the power of imagination and escapism, and why stories that inspire curiosity, creativity, and outdoor exploration are more important than ever for young readers.
Learn more at: https://catharinasteel.com/ 

Discover the Beauty of England’s Rivers

In celebration of National Rivers Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “English Connection” with Glynn Burrows—historian and owner of Norfolk Tours—dives into the fascinating history, culture, and natural charm of England’s rivers. From the iconic Thames to quiet countryside streams, Glynn shares insights on rivers as ancient boundaries, royal landmarks, and places of leisure. Hear about riverside walks, boating traditions like punting and wherry-hiring, and even a bit of wild swimming. The episode also touches on canals, environmental efforts, and the unique perspectives rivers offer travelers today.
🎧 Glynn Burrows joins Big Blend Radio every 4th Saturday to share stories about England’s past and present, and to help listeners explore their family roots.
📍 Learn more and try the companion jigsaw puzzle: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/experience-englands-rivers-and-riverways/ 
🎙 Listen to more of Glynn’s episodes: https://english-connection.podbean.com/ 
🎧 Explore more shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Dr Marschall Runge - The Great Healthcare Disruption

This episode of Big Blend Radio features Dr. Marschall Runge, a leading cardiologist, medical researcher, and CEO of Michigan Medicine. He discusses his new book, "The Great Healthcare Disruption, "which explores how emerging technologies like AI, new medications, and bold healthcare policies are transforming the future of American medicine. Dr. Runge also talks about his previous medical thriller, "Coded to Kill," and how fiction can reflect real-world challenges in the healthcare system.
From community health to ethical innovation, Dr. Runge offers a clear-eyed look at the promises and pitfalls of modern medicine.
Published through Forbes, "The Great Healthcare Disruption: Big Tech, Bold Policy, and the Future of American Medicine" is available now at: https://drmarschallrunge.com/ 

Recap of the 2025 Jefferson Highway Conference in McAlester, Oklahoma

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show features a lively recap of the 2025 Jefferson Highway Conference held in McAlester, Oklahoma. The event brought together historians, community leaders, and heritage travelers to celebrate the cultural and historical significance of the Jefferson Highway, and included a special pre-conference Sociability Caravan.
Featured Guests:- Roger Bell – Co-Host & President of the Jefferson Highway Association- Billy Sumner – Tourism Manager for the City of McAlester. Visit: https://travelmcalester.com/  - Adeline Whisenhunt – Conference Organizer & Member of the Oklahoma Chapter of the Jefferson Highway AssociationPLUS: Hear from Joe’s Yardbird & Lost Street Brewing Company
The conversation explores how tourism, historical preservation, and community collaboration contribute to revitalizing this iconic route. From the Choctaw Nation’s cultural contributions to stories of local resilience, the episode highlights how the Jefferson Highway continues to connect and inspire communities.
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. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

California Minimum Wage Law Update 2025

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s California Employment Law Podcast with attorney Ward Heinrichs, he unpacks key updates in California’s minimum wage laws. From the FAST Recovery Act and increased wages for healthcare workers to proposed changes affecting hospitality workers in San Diego, this episode provides a timely midyear reminder for both employers and employees to stay informed.
📖 Read the article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/midyear-reminder-of-new-california-minimum-wage-laws-2025/ 👨‍⚖️ About Ward Heinrichs: http://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ 🎧 More episodes: https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/ 🔊 Part of the Success Express Podcast Channel on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Author Sam Davey - The Chosen Queen

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, author Sam Davey talks about her powerful new novel "The Chosen Queen," a feminist reimagining of the Pendragon prophecy told through the eyes of Igraine—Arthur’s mother and a woman of great strength, wisdom, and influence. Shifting the spotlight from kings and knights to queens and mothers, this is a story about power, destiny, and the women who shaped legend.
Sam shares her inspiration behind the book, how she blends history and myth, and what it’s like to juggle writing with a full-time career at London’s Royal Opera House. She also discusses her deep connection to Arthurian lore, the role of nature and magic in her storytelling, and her commitment to portraying women’s voices in history.
🔹 Highlights:- A fresh feminist perspective on Arthurian legend- Igraine’s journey as a mother, leader, and visionary- The intersection of myth, magic, and historical research- Sam’s path as a writer, and advocate for women’s stories
Learn more at https://www.samdaveyroughmagic.net/ 

Discover the Magical Isle of Skye, Scotland

In celebration of International Fairy Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Global Adventures with Debbie Stone” explores the magical allure of the Isle of Skye. Travel writer Debbie Stone shares her journey through Scotland’s legendary island, rich in fairy folklore, breathtaking landscapes, and historic castles.
From the mystical Fairy Pools and towering Old Man of Storr to iconic landmarks like Dunvegan and Eilean Donan Castles, Debbie recounts Skye’s stories of giants and fairies, dramatic coastal views, and vibrant local culture. She also delves into Scotland’s culinary treasures—including haggis, Cullen skink, and the country’s famous whisky—while highlighting the Highland Cattle and countless sheep that inhabit the rugged terrain.
📖 Read the article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/scotlands-isle-of-skye-will-leave-you-breathless/ 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Big Daily Blend” channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork