Big Blend Radio

Winter Solstice Reflections & Christmas Songs with Johnny Schaefer

In this special Winter Solstice episode of Big Blend Radio, we celebrate the birthday of award-winning singer-songwriter Johnny Schaefer, cohost of the Big Daily Blend Podcast (airs every 1st Sunday), along with the season’s spirit of reflection, gratitude, and togetherness.
The conversation explores the meaning of the Winter Solstice, cherished holiday traditions, and the joy of gathering with friends and family. Johnny shares stories behind his Christmas music—including his newest single “Pictures of Christmas”—and discusses the art of storytelling through song, vocal expression, and the role of instruments in creating timeless holiday music. From Advent hymns to eclectic seasonal favorites, this episode highlights how music connects generations and cultures while offering comfort, joy, and inspiration during the holidays.
🎶 Learn more about Johnny Schaefer: https://hearjohnny.com/ 
🎄 Johnny Schaefer – Christmas Songs:* Pictures of Christmas – https://youtu.be/B9Fe3w1DT9M?si=8tbwd2MpHhOcLBCk * Bring a Torch Jeanette Isabella – https://youtu.be/sSW7-lf5-W4?si=DWx6-qx5VcLvAwfI * O Come, O Come, Emmanuel – https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=C7bTYvC2Om8oHJsH&v=eKCjm0OYwFo&feature=youtu.be * Joseph's Prayer – https://youtu.be/5UFwqoY5ZEo?si=h73PoXeeKXeJO-Uw * Proclamation of the Birth of Christ – https://youtu.be/sSW7-lf5-W4?si=sbLViGId5hPOWoZ7 * The Bach-Gounod Ave Maria – https://youtu.be/qlzJCMai1so?si=UQWvSaXl6XHJNguT * People Look East – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqG5Vammou0 * All the Babes on Christmas Born – https://youtu.be/ZB2hNDbHn8o?si=y4ycCE12h08f4ET5 * Finlandia Brasileira – https://youtu.be/8M_LlEhUH7c?si=zNM3Ee5NYtXQjaU3 * The Friendly Beasts and Away in a Manger – https://youtu.be/eg3-eZAOx9A?si=DCQqULcp73jN2Stw 
🎼 Johnny’s Christmas Playlists:* Advent: A Musical Journey – https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj6NTFiUTbxEGsz9QP4eDmYGmLeJrkEdB&si=9DwY9TfntZfAJd3b * Eclectic Christmas Playlist – https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj6NTFiUTbxETSCjjnsbwmOqBKtkt_MEW&si=v9PIN4Vwad3j8a8L * From Here to Nativity Album – https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj6NTFiUTbxFAt6UC2Fvzn6PHdGCgTj9M&si=3i2OPmuAFMlOFevd 
Explore Big  Blend Radio's Network of Shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Evolution of Art Materials: Bristles & Brushes

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "World of Art Podcast," artist and art historian Victoria Chick launches a new series exploring the Evolution of Art Materials, beginning with a deep dive into artist brushes and bristles.
The conversation traces the journey of artist tools from ancient times to contemporary practice, examining how natural and synthetic materials have shaped painting techniques across cultures and centuries. Victoria discusses the tactile relationship between artists and their tools, why painters often remain loyal to familiar materials, and how technological advancements continue to influence artistic expression.
Listeners are invited to appreciate the craftsmanship, history, and experimentation behind the brushes artists use—and how understanding materials deepens our connection to art history itself.
Read Victoria’s Article "Evolution of Art Materials": https://open.substack.com/pub/bigblendarts/p/evolution-of-art-materials 
MORE TO EXPLORE* Victoria’s Portfolio: https://victoriachick.com/ * World of Art Podcast: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/ * Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/ 
This episode also appears on Big Blend Radio’s Toast to The Arts podcast channel. Discover more: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Feast of Words - Four Voices, One Debut: Roots and Revolutions

How does the past define our future? In Part 3 of our "Four Voices: One Debut" series on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to the Arts," we dig into the stories that haunt us—from the battlefields of the Cuban Revolution to the hidden secrets of our own family trees.
This episode features four authors who explore the power of history and heritage. We sit down with Matt Cost to discuss the rise of Fidel Castro, Mike Nemeth on how personal loss and family drama fuel a debut, Anna Dalhaimer Bartkowski on the karmic echoes of genealogy, and Clifford Garstang on how global travel and cultural displacement enrich the novelist's perspective. Join us as we discuss the "first-born" novels that explore where we come from and the resilience required to move forward.
FEATURED AUTHORS & DEBUT NOVELS* Matt Cost – I Am Cuba: Fidel Castro and the Cuban Revolution https://www.mattcost.net/ * Mike Nemeth – The Undiscovered Country https://mikenemethauthor.com/ * Anna Dalhaimer Bartkowski – Dead Reckoning https://annabartkowski.com/ * Clifford Garstang – The Shaman of Turtle Valley https://cliffordgarstang.com/ 
CATCH UP ON THE SERIES:* Part 1: The Leading Ladies - https://bigblendarts.substack.com/p/the-leading-ladies * Part 2: Secrets & Journeys - https://bigblendarts.substack.com/p/secrets-and-journeys 
SUPPORT EDUCATION & LITERACY: Visit https://theglobalhenry.org/ to support The Steppes of Henry Foundation. By purchasing the books of the late world traveler and author Henry Biernacki, you fund tuition and essentials for girls in Africa and Mexico. 100% of your purchase goes directly to the children. Give the gift of a book and fund a lifetime of education.

Kindness vs. Niceness: Why Effective Leaders Must Have Difficult Conversations

In this insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) explores the critical difference between being nice and being kind in supervision and leadership.
Rita explains how a culture of niceness can actually undermine communication, accountability, and trust, while kindness—rooted in authenticity, clarity, and care—supports employee success and healthy workplace relationships. This conversation highlights why difficult conversations are not only necessary but essential for growth, and how leaders can be kind, firm, and effective at the same time.
🎙️ Key Takeaways:• Niceness can mask avoidance and unclear expectations.• Kindness involves honesty, support, and accountability.• Difficult conversations are essential for growth and success.• Authentic leadership builds trust and respect.• Avoiding conflict weakens communication and performance.• Kindness does not mean avoiding hard truths.• Effective supervision balances care with clear boundaries.• Being “nice” all the time is unrealistic and exhausting.• Leaders should focus on helping team members succeed.• Clear communication fosters healthy workplace cultures.
📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Visit Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/ 
🔹 Explore more business & career podcasts on Big Blend Radio Network:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

One True Song: Anna Karney on The Power of Music and Connection

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we welcome back Bay Area singer-songwriter, educator, and activist Anna Karney for a heartfelt conversation about music as a force for connection, healing, and social change.
Anna discusses her latest album "One True Song," a powerful collection of soulful folk rock and alternative singer-songwriter music rooted in themes of justice, hope, and collective action. Co-produced by Michael Rosen (Rancid), the album features an impressive lineup of Bay Area musicians including James DePrato (Chuck Prophet Band), Phillip Bennett (Jefferson Starship), Uriah Duffy (Fantastic Negrito, Whitesnake), and more. From the gentle “Suspended” to the driving “Out of Body” and the socially charged “Freedom Summer,” the album blends raw acoustic songwriting with the full energy of a rock band.
The conversation also explores Anna’s work as a choir and guitar teacher in San Francisco, the healing power of music, the importance of community, and how art bridges culture, history, and human connection. We also highlight her new holiday single, “Ring In the Holidays,” a joyful celebration of togetherness through music.
Beyond recording and performing, Anna’s career spans composing music for video games like Star Wars Galaxies and SimCity, scoring ballet and modern dance, and earning the prestigious “Dreamcatcher” Award for her impact on youth through music education.
🎶 Learn more, stream, and explore Anna Karney’s music:https://karney.org/ https://karney.bandcamp.com 
This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio's "A Toast to The Arts," "Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll," "Big Daily Blend," and "Women Making History" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork Photos: Tanja Nixx

The Power of Apologies: Rebuilding Trust Through Accountability

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUCCESS EXPRESS Business & Career Show, Lea Brovedani, internationally recognized as “The Trust Architect,” explores the critical role of apologies in building and restoring trust—both personally and professionally.
The conversation highlights why acknowledging mistakes, taking responsibility, and offering sincere apologies are essential leadership skills. Lea breaks down the Five Rs of an Effective Apology and explains how honesty, integrity, and clear communication strengthen relationships, while insincere or automated apologies can undermine trust. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and consider addressing any outstanding apologies before the year ends.
LEA BROVEDANI has been named one of North America’s Top Thought Leaders on Trust by Trust Across America. She is an author, speaker, and workshop facilitator, known internationally as "The Trust Architect." Her books include:* TRUST ME: Restore Belief & Confidence in an Uncertain World* TRUSTED – Secret Lessons from an Inspired Leader
🔗 Learn more about Lea’s speaking and leadership work: https://leabrovedanispeaker.com/ 🔗 Explore her trust-building resources: https://leabrovedani.com 
🎙️ Follow the SUCCESS EXPRESS Podcast: https://success-express-business.podbean.com/ 

The Creative Influence of Cats and Dogs with Author D.R. Ransdell

In celebration of National Cat Lovers Month, Big Blend Radio’s Pet Connection show explores the powerful role pets play in creativity, storytelling, and everyday life with author D.R. Ransdell. Drawing inspiration from her cats and canine companions, Ransdell shares how animals influence her writing, travel experiences, and artistic perspective.
Co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters.com joins the conversation, offering practical holiday pet care and safety tips to help pet parents keep their cats and dogs happy, healthy, and stress-free during the festive season.
This episode highlights Ransdell’s pet-inspired books:* The Cezanne Chihuahua: A French Coast Pet Art Mystery* The Secret Lives of the Pink House Cats: Prose Poems by Five Felines
🐾 Learn more about D.R. Ransdell and her books: https://www.dr-ransdell.com/ 🐾 TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ 
🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com 
🎙️ This show is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend” and "Toast to The Arts" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Seven Great Travel Picks for 2026

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” show, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares seven inspiring travel picks for 2026, encouraging listeners to plan ahead and explore destinations that offer unforgettable landscapes, outdoor adventures, and meaningful travel experiences.
From Australia’s iconic Great Ocean Road and the alpine charm of Telluride, Colorado, to the wild beauty of Glacier Bay, Alaska, the red rock magic of Sedona, epic wildlife encounters in Botswana, autumn splendor in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and the volcanic landscapes of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Linda highlights what makes each destination special and why now is the time to start dreaming—and planning—your next adventure.
📝 Read Linda’s travel article:https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/linda-ballou-shares-seven-great-travel-picks-for-2026-nows-the-time-to-see-the-world/ 
🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures:https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST🎙️ Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com
🎨 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Parks & Travel” Podcast Channels. Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
Photo courtesy Linda Ballou & Big Island Visitor Bureau