Big Blend Radio

Are You an Administratively Exempt Employee?

This episode of Big Blend Radio's California Employment Law Podcast, featuring San Diego attorney Ward Heinrichs, observes National Administrative Professionals Day and Administrative Professionals Week by diving into a crucial workplace topic: Are You an Administratively Exempt Employee?
Exempt employees are typically those who receive a minimum required salary and perform specific duties as defined by state and/or federal law. If both salary and duty requirements are met, employers are generally not obligated to pay overtime or provide meal and rest breaks that are required for non-exempt employees.
Ward breaks down how administrative exemptions work, common pitfalls in employee classification, and how both workers and employers can ensure compliance with California labor laws.
📖 Learn more by reading Ward's article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/are-you-an-administratively-exempt-employee/ 
👨‍⚖️ About Ward Heinrichs:Based in San Diego, California, Ward represents both employers and employees across nearly all areas of labor and employment law.🔗 More about Ward:  http://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ 
🎧 Ward Heinrichs joins Big Blend Radio every 4th Wednesday.📺 Follow his podcast appearances here: https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/ 
🔊This episode is also available on Big Blend Radio’s "Success Express" and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels.  Explore our full network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Photographer Steve Piacente Visits Saudi Arabia

Join us on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s VACATION STATION Travel Show as we chat with photographer Steve Piacente about his recent visit to Saudi Arabia. From the vast desert landscapes to the vibrant streets of Riyadh, Steve shares his experiences capturing the essence of the region through his lens, and the meaningful connections he made with the local people.
Hear about the unique challenges and rewards of photographing in the desert, the warmth of the Saudi people, and how travel can deepen personal perspective and storytelling. Steve's passion for visual storytelling shines as he talks about capturing the soul of a place through his camera.  
Along with being a photographer, Steve Piacente is the owner of Next Phase Life Coaching. He is an author, former journalist, and Director of Training at The Communication Center in Washington, D.C. His novels include, “Bella,” “Pretender,” and “Bootlicker.” His latest non-fiction book is “Your New Fighting Stance: Good Enough Isn’t, and You Know It.”  
📸 View and purchase Steve's photography at https://www.piacentephotos.com/  📘 Learn more about his coaching services at https://www.stevepiacente.com/ 📚 Steve’s books are available on Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Steve-Piacente/author/B004LJX2C4? 
🔔 Subscribe to Big Blend Radio for more inspiring travel interviews, cultural insights, and life-changing stories! Visit: https://bigblendradio.podbean.com/ 

History, Art, and Architectural Adventures in Minneapolis

In this exciting episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast, travel writer Debbie Stone takes us on a cultural deep dive into Minneapolis, Minnesota — a city brimming with creativity, community, and charm. It also happens to be a destination on the historic Jefferson Highway!
🌟 Discover the iconic Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, an eleven-acre urban oasis filled with world-class art installations and lush scenery. Debbie shares her firsthand experience strolling through this must-visit destination that blends nature and creativity in the heart of the city.
🚶‍♀️ Plus, get an insider's look at the fascinating Minneapolis Skyway System, the largest contiguous skyway in the world. Learn how these second-story walkways connect 80 city blocks and offer a unique way to explore the city, rain or shine.
🎨 From arts and culture to architectural wonders and walking tours, this episode is a must for curious travelers, art lovers, and anyone planning a trip to Minneapolis.
📖 Read Debbie’s articles:* A Visit to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-visit-to-the-minneapolis-sculpture-garden/ * Take a Minneapolis City & Skyway Tour: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/take-a-minneapolis-city-and-skyway-tour/ 
 
🔗 Listen & Subscribe to Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast here: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
🖼️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts” and “Vacation Station” travel channels. Explore more inspiring episodes on the Big Blend Radio Network, here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Why Communities Need Green Spaces

In this special Earth Day episode of the Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, to dive into the growing lifestyle trend of “backyarding” – the shift of indoor activities like dining, working, exercising, and entertaining to our outdoor spaces.
Kris shares how this powerful movement is encouraging communities across the country to invest in urban parks, public green spaces, and sustainable outdoor living areas. With over 15 years of advocacy, the TurfMutt Foundation continues to champion the health, environmental, and social benefits of getting outside and caring for our green spaces.
🎧 In this episode:* Discover what “backyarding” means and why it matters* Learn the Top 5 Reasons communities should invest in green spaces for well-being and resilience* Explore how public parks and urban landscapes are becoming the new “backyards” for people everywhere
🌱 Listen now and join the movement to get outside, get active, and green your community!
🔗 Learn more: https://www.turfmutt.com/ 
🌎 In celebration of Earth Day, this episode is featured on Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel," "Nature Connection," "Quality of Life," and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore Big Blend Radio's full network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Jeffrey Spear - My Life in Gluttony

On this delicious episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show, presented in collaboration with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we’re joined by Jeffrey Spear, author of the mouthwatering book “My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure.”
From indulging in street food like char-grilled mouse in Malawi to tracking down the best hot dogs in New York City, Jeffrey shares the unforgettable meals, flavors, and foodie moments that have defined his travels across the globe. With stops in Ghana, South Africa, Lebanon, Paris, Serbia, and beyond, Spear shows us that culinary curiosity can turn any trip into a gastronomic adventure.
Tune in as Jeffrey discusses:- His philosophy of “living to eat”  - His most surprising and exotic food finds- The 96 travel-inspired recipes featured in his book- Memorable moments from travels in the U.S. and abroad
Whether you're a food lover, travel enthusiast, or just curious about global cuisines, this episode will awaken your taste buds and spark your wanderlust!
📖 Grab your copy of “My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure” on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/My-Life-Gluttony-Culinary-Adventure/dp/0988919117 
🍲 Try Jeffrey’s featured recipe – Mućkalica - here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/jeffrey-spear-my-life-in-gluttony/ 
Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), here: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 
🎧 This episode is also featured on our Big Blend Radio “Vacation Station” Travel Channel! Explore even more engaging shows on the Big Blend Radio Network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Mir Bahmanyar - The Houdini Club

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s WAY BACK WHEN History Show features Mir Bahmanyar—acclaimed author, military historian, and TV/film producer—discussing his gripping new book, "The Houdini Club: The Epic Journey and Daring Escapes of the First Army Rangers of WWII," releasing April 22, 2025.
A former U.S. Army Ranger who served in the Second Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Mir Bahmanyar brings unmatched authenticity to the story of WWII’s elite “Darby’s Rangers.” He shares the untold, uncensored saga of the original Army Ranger battalions—highlighting their brutal training, combat missions across North Africa, Sicily, France, and Italy, and the legendary POW escapes that earned them the nickname “The Houdini Club.”
Bahmanyar draws from firsthand interviews, personal correspondence, and newly uncovered historical sources to portray the raw courage and human drama behind one of America’s most daring military units. His military expertise, deep research, and storytelling make this episode a must-listen for history lovers, military buffs, cultural travelers, and fans of WWII true stories.
Mir Bahmanyar holds a B.A. in History from University of California at Berkeley and an M.A. in War Studies from King's College London. Mir served on the Board of Directors for the 75th Ranger Regiment Association and was an Associate Historian of the World War Two Ranger Battalions Association. Learn more about his work and books: https://www.mirbahmanyar.com/ 
Subscribe to Big Blend Radio's WAY BACK WHEN History show, here: https://way-back-when-history.podbean.com/ 

Art Museums in the 21st Century

From the Minneapolis Institute of Art to the Nelson-Atkins Museum in Kansas City, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas (pictured), and even the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain—this episode of Big Blend Radio’s WORLD OF ART podcast with artist and art historian Victoria Chick concludes her three-part series on the History of Art Museums, highlighting the evolution and innovation of 21st-century art museums in America.
This art-focused podcast explores how modern museums are redefining the way we experience and interact with art, from cutting-edge architecture and community engagement to the transformation of museum collections and their exhibits.
Victoria Chick is the visionary behind the Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center in Silver City, New Mexico. She’s also a contemporary figurative artist and a collector of early 19th and 20th-century American prints. Learn more about her work and the museum initiative, and explore her three-part article series on the history of art museums:
PART ONE: The Origins of Art Museums: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/articles/art-museums-a-history-part-one  
PART TWO: Growth of Art Museums in the 19th and 20th Centuries: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/articles/art-museums-a-history-part-two    
PART THREE: 21st-Century Art Museums in America: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/articles/art-museums-pt-3 
🎨 Visit Victoria Chick’s portfolio: https://victoriachick.com/ 
🎙️ Tune in to Big Blend Radio's World of Art Podcast every 3rd Saturday for engaging conversations on art history, contemporary art, museum culture, and more: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Way Back When and Toast to The Arts podcast channels. Explore the entire network of educational and arts-focused shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  

Let's Make Pizza with Chef Ivan Flowers!

In this flavorful shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Happy Hour" shows, 5-Star Chef and Culinary Instructor Chef Ivan Flowers serves up everything you need to know about crafting the perfect homemade pizza. From dough-making secrets and topping techniques to fun facts about regional pizza styles, this episode is a delicious deep dive into everyone’s favorite comfort food.
Chef Ivan also dishes on who he and his wife Tracy would invite to their ultimate pizza party—bringing personality, warmth, and plenty of foodie inspiration to the mic.
Whether you're gearing up for National Pizza Party Day on May 16, 2025, or just craving a slice of kitchen creativity, this episode is your go-to guide for pizza night success.
Plus, check out Chef Ivan’s DIY Pizza Dough recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/lets-make-pizza/