Big Blend Radio

Corey Schenck of Pangaea - The Reckoning Album

In celebration of National Arts & Humanities Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features Corey Schenck, co-founder of the progressive rock band PANGAEA. Corey talks about the band’s rich history, their creative evolution, and their long-awaited fourth album, “The Reckoning.”   
Recorded over several years, The Reckoning captures the authenticity and collaborative spirit that define PANGAEA’s sound. Corey reflects on the group’s decades-long friendships, musical influences, and the revival of their shelved album after twenty years. The conversation also dives into how digital distribution and AI are reshaping the music landscape, the resurgence of vinyl culture, and the lasting impact of album art and live, acoustic performances.
📀 More About PANGAEAFormed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, PANGAEA’s story began like many bands — a group of friends with a shared dream. After three internationally recognized albums and a long hiatus, the band reunited two decades later to release Beowulf (2023) and now, finally, The Reckoning. Their music continues to resonate across generations of rock and prog fans worldwide.
🔗 Links & Resources:- PANGAEA Band: https://pangaea.band/ - Big Blend Radio Interview with Ron Poulson about Beowulf: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/pangaea-beowulf-album/ - Listen to more episodes on Toast The Arts: https://toast-the-arts.podbean.com/ 

Adventures in Silver Falls Oregon State Park

Join travel writer and photographer Jo Clark on “Jo Goes Everywhere!” as she explores the breathtaking Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. Known as the “crown jewel” of Oregon’s state parks, Silver Falls offers ten stunning waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and natural beauty that refreshes both body and soul.
In this conversation, Jo shares stories from her Oregon adventures—hiking through the park’s lush trails, discovering the historic CCC-built lodge, and enjoying cozy lodgings from charming bed and breakfasts to welcoming hotels. She also dives into the culinary delights of the Willamette Valley, the farmers markets of McMinnville, and unique local experiences, including museums, distilleries, and wineries. Whether you’re drawn to waterfalls, wine, or wellness, this episode offers inspiration for every kind of traveler.
📖 Read Jo's Article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/silver-falls-state-park-the-ultimate-oregon-adventure/ 
🗓️ “Jo Goes Everywhere!” airs every 2nd Sunday at 7pm EST on Big Blend Radio. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/ 
🌍 Follow Jo's Travels:http://www.haveglasswilltravel.com/ https://recipestravelculture.com/ 
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend’s Vacation Station and Parks & Travel podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Horse Behavior: Rearing and Roping Explained

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores two foundational yet complex aspects of horse behavior and training: rearing and roping.
The conversation begins with an in-depth look at rearing—why horses do it, what it means, and how understanding this natural communication behavior is essential for safety and training. Christy offers practical advice for beginners and stresses when to seek professional guidance.
The discussion then transitions into the origins and techniques of roping, from its roots in ranching to the modern art of team roping and barrel racing. Listeners will gain insights into proper desensitization, training dynamics, and the importance of matching the right horse with the right rider. Christy also highlights how video analysis can be a valuable tool for improving performance and safety.
Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, extreme trail obstacle champion, author, instructor, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more at: https://wdnhorse.com/ 
🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/ 

Exploring History and Culture In and Around Istanbul

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) features travel writer and photographer Marni Patterson, who shares her experiences exploring the fascinating history and culture of Istanbul, Turkey, and its surrounding regions.
From the iconic crossroads of East and West to the poignant battlefields of Gallipoli and the legendary city of Troy, Marni delves into the stories, myths, and cultural layers that make this part of the world so compelling. She also discusses the importance of respecting local customs, offers travel tips for exploring Turkey, and reflects on the realities and rewards of being a travel writer.
📖 Read Marni’s article, Exploring History and Culture In & Around Istanbul:https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-history-and-culture-in-and-around-istanbul/ 
🌐 Follow Marni’s adventures: https://mptravelwriting.com/ 
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 
🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio's “Vacation Station,” “Parks & Travel,” and “Way Back When” channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m 

Beyond Breakfast – Celebrating the Versatility of Eggs

In celebration of World Egg Day and National Cookbook Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Show features food writer, world traveler, and award-winning author Jeffrey Spear, who celebrates the humble egg — a true everyday ingredient that shines in dishes far beyond breakfast.
From deviled eggs to Scotch eggs, soufflés to custards, Jeffrey explores the incredible versatility of eggs in global cuisines. The conversation dives into their nutritional value, creative uses in cooking and baking, and their surprising role in international dishes and beverages. Along the way, he shares stories and insights from his book, "My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure," celebrating the joy of culinary exploration and the art of transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary meals.
🥚 Read Jeffrey’s article “Eggs: Unlimited Potential”:https://spearwrites.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/eggs_national_culinary_review_2.pdf 
🎙️ Topics Covered:- Culinary and nutritional benefits of eggs- Creative and international egg dishes from around the world- Beverages that use eggs for texture and flavor- Cultural perspectives on eggs and their role in traditional cuisines- Fun ideas for brunches, themed parties, and creative home cooking
📚 Learn more about Jeffrey Spear and his work: https://spearwrites.com/ 
📖 Get his book “My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure” on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/My-Life-Gluttony-Culinary-Adventure/dp/0988919117 
📺 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channel. Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio 

Luxury Meets History: Barge Cruising England’s Iconic Thames River

Celebrate the one-year anniversary of "Quiltripping Travel with Rose" on Big Blend Radio!
Travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares her unforgettable experience celebrating her 40th wedding anniversary aboard the Magna Carta barge with European Waterways. This luxurious barge cruise along England’s historic Thames River blends elegance, culture, and centuries of history — from Oxford to Hampton Court.
Along the way, Rose and her fellow travelers explored iconic and historic sites such as Christ Church College in Oxford, Cliveden House, Dorney Court, Windsor Castle, Runnymede, and Hampton Court Palace. The conversation delves into the preservation of historic barges, the exceptional culinary experiences onboard, and the natural beauty that defines the Thames — from swans gliding by to rainbows after the rain. Rose also shares insights into filming locations tied to British television and film and teases her next adventure cruising the Mediterranean.
🌐 Read Rose's article about her Thames River barge cruise: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/celebrating-our-40th-anniversary-with-a-luxury-english-barge-cruise/🔗 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/ 🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/ 
📲 This episode is also Featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, and Way Back When Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Author Arlon Jay Staggs: Leta Pearl’s Love Biscuits

In celebration of National Book Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Books & Authors Show with Books Forward features author Arlon Jay Staggs, who discusses his debut novel, "Leta Pearl’s Love Biscuits" (Koehler Books, October 7, 2025). Perfect for fans of "Fried Green Tomatoes," this tender and charming Southern tale delves into small-town politics, a long-buried tragedy, and a mother whose mysterious, love-laced biscuits are stirring up gossip and a mess of feelings.
Set in 1982 in Bailey Springs, Alabama, "Leta Pearl’s Love Biscuits" follows Trudy, a young widow whose return to the spotlight—amid family drama, small-town scandal, and unexpected romance—forces her to confront her past and decide if she’ll play by the rules or risk everything for the life she truly wants.
In this engaging conversation, Arlon discusses the power of Southern storytelling, the blend of humor and heart in his fiction, and how food and gossip weave through the fabric of small-town life. He also shares insights into character development, the balance between love and tradition, and his personal journey from award-winning copywriter and brand strategist to novelist and writing professor.
Learn more about Arlon at https://www.arlonjay.com/ Learn more about Books Forward at https://booksforward.com/ Follow Big Blend Radio at https://bigblendradio.com/ 

Autumn Adventures in Asheville: Ghosts, Murder Mysteries & Leaf Peeping

Celebrate the beauty, mystery, and community spirit of autumn in Asheville, North Carolina! This October edition of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville " Podcast highlights the season’s vibrant blend of color, creativity, and connection in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Hosts Steve and Karen Wilson (aka “Mr & Mrs Wild” of The Lion and the Rose Bed & BreakfasT) are joined by Jennifer Johnson-Brown, owner of JJ Brown Productions, and Uncle Ted, musician and guide with Grayline Trolley Tours. Hear about Asheville’s fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway, interactive murder mystery experiences, and haunted history, while reflecting on how the community continues to heal and grow one year after Hurricane Helene.
Enjoy stories of Asheville’s rich cultural past, its creative heartbeat, and its many seasonal offerings — from trolley tours and local brews to cozy stays and community gatherings. It’s the perfect listen for anyone planning an autumn getaway to Beer City USA!
💼 Featured Guests- Jennifer Johnson-Brown, Owner of JJ Brown Productions – https://www.jjbrownproductions.com/ - Uncle Ted, Musician & Guide with Gray Line Trolley Tours – https://graylineasheville.com/ - Steve & Karen Wilson, Innkeepers at The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast – https://www.lion-rose.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Big Daily Blend” Podcast Channels. Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio