Big Blend Radio

Greenwood, Mississippi: Music, Movies and Culinary Magic in the Delta

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, travel writer Terri Guthrie takes listeners to Greenwood, Mississippi, a historic Delta town where Southern charm meets culinary adventure. Known for its rich music history, cinematic fame as a filming location for “The Help,” and unexpected touches of luxury and hospitality, Greenwood offers visitors a soulful experience that’s both relaxing and inspiring.
Explore the walkable downtown, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and the irresistible aroma of Southern cooking. Stroll down Grand Boulevard, a mile-long stretch framed by stately historic homes, and discover the local landmarks connected to Bobby Gentry’s iconic “Ode to Billie Joe” and Blues legend Robert Johnson, whose final resting place lies nearby.
A highlight of the visit is the elegant Alluvian Hotel, where Southern hospitality meets boutique luxury. Guests enjoy spacious rooms, rooftop views, spa treatments, and delicious Southern breakfasts daily. Just steps away, the Viking Cooking School stirs up joy with hands-on classes ranging from pasta-making to Southern brunch. It’s an unforgettable experience for food lovers, couples, and friends alike—plus, guests can enjoy discounts at the Viking Gourmet Store next door.
Terri also spotlights Greenwood’s vibrant dining scene, featuring Fan & Johnny’s, helmed by James Beard-nominated Chef Taylor Bowen Ricketts, and Giardina’s Restaurant, a fine dining favorite with cozy private booths since 1936.
From music and movies to mouthwatering cuisine and Southern hospitality, Greenwood is truly the heart and soul of the Mississippi Delta.
📍 Plan Your Greenwood Getaway- Visit Greenwood: https://visitgreenwoodms.com/ - The Alluvian Hotel: https://www.thealluvian.com/ - Viking Cooking School: https://www.vikingrange.com/consumer/category/the-alluvian-viking-cooking-school - Visit Mississippi: https://visitmississippi.org/ 
🎧 Listen to "Travel with Terri" weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Eat, Drink & Be Merry, and Toast to The Arts podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Autumn Adventures on the Historic Jefferson Highway - Part 2

From festivals in Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana, to scenic retreats in Arkansas and historic stops in Kansas and Missouri, Part 2 of Autumn Adventures on the Jefferson Highway continues our fall journey along this legendary “Pines to Palms Highway.” 🍂
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” series, we explore vibrant communities that make this route a must for fall travelers. Hear about lively festivals, community spirit, small-town charm, and unique lodging — from historic motels, relaxing Bed & Breakfasts, and treehouses to boutique stays and classic brand hotels.
FEATURED GUESTS- Stacy Foley – Greenville Tourism, Texas: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/ - Janna Conklin – Boots Court Motel, Carthage, MO: https://bootscourt66.com/ - Phyllis Bitner – Miners Hall Museum, Franklin, KS: https://www.minershallmuseum.com/ - Tiffany Bertram – Tiffany’s Bed & Breakfast, Bismarck, AR: https://www.tiffanysbedandbreakfast.com/ - Charlotte Knotek – DeSoto Parish Tourism Commission, Louisiana: https://discoverdesoto.com/ - Billy Sumner – Travel McAlester, Oklahoma: https://travelmcalester.com/ 
✨ Listen to Part 1 here:  https://youtu.be/P6tMrp7STjM?si=vzYsI-LSvNRoEgSl 
🚗 The Jefferson Highway, known as the “Pines to Palms Highway”, stretches from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana, weaving through communities with deep historical roots and cultural pride.  Learn more: Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
🌐 Sign up to receive the upcoming new digital Jefferson Highway Travel Guide and new website updates: https://jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 
📺 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Road Trip Radio" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio 

Cooking Up Life Lessons with Shelley Whizin

In celebration of Dessert Month, Cookbook Month, and Emotional Wellness Month, this delightful and insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show features transformational life coach Shelley Whizin in a sweet conversation about the connection between food, emotional wellness, and personal growth.
Shelley explores how cooking—and especially chocolate—can serve as a beautiful metaphor for life. From embracing mistakes to savoring small indulgences, she reminds us that nourishment goes far beyond the table. Through reflection on creativity, relationships, and self-awareness, Shelley encourages us to approach life (and cooking) with love, joy, and an open heart.
🧘 Key Takeaways:- October is both Dessert Month and Emotional Wellness Month- Food can serve as an analogy for life and self-discovery- Small indulgences support emotional well-being- Cooking helps us navigate thoughts, feelings, and creativity- Creating space for new ideas fosters personal growth- Our relationships with food reflect our relationships with people- Mistakes can lead to creative breakthroughs- Finding joy in the process enhances emotional wellness- Self-reflection deepens our human and spiritual experience- Love and authenticity are key ingredients for fulfillment
📘 Read Shelley’s article: Bring Love and Chocolate to Your Tablehttps://blendradioandtv.com/listing/bring-love-and-chocolate-to-your-table/ 
📚 Get her book What Do You Bring to the Table? on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/What-You-Bring-Table-Inspirational/dp/1087932106 
🎧 Listen to Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley. New episodes drop every first Sunday: https://soul-diving-sunday-shelley.podbean.com/ 
📺 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life,”  "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Celebrate Fall and Global Diversity

This episode of Big Blend Radio celebrates Fall, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Global Diversity Appreciation Month, embracing the rich traditions, flavors, and rhythms that bring people together around the world.
Award-winning vocalist and composer Johnny Schaefer  @hearjohnny  and his filmmaker husband Paco Silva share a warm and inspiring conversation about the power of cultural celebrations, the joy of food, and the universal language of music. From birthday customs and King Cake to myths, legends, and the arts, the discussion explores how traditions shape identity and strengthen community bonds.
They also touch on the resilience and authenticity that artists need in today’s creative world, while honoring influential cultural figures who inspire unity, creativity, and pride across generations.
🎵 Listen to the music playlists:- Hello October: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6MsNG24qzf2BCmNDa5UWYv?si=e54e9564e3784ae3 
- Songs That Celebrate Hispanic & Latino Heritage: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/13lB2AwcrN2j1rZ5A8ybGo?si=f70dc99155c1440e 
🌐 Learn more about Johnny Schaefer: https://hearjohnny.com 🎧 Listen to Big Blend Radio: https://bigblendradio.com 

Boating Adventures in the South Sound of Washington

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel” Show travel writer Linda Kissam, the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” shares her final boating adventure of the 2025 season, exploring the South Sound region of Washington State.
This engaging conversation dives into the vibrant boating culture of the Pacific Northwest, from the benefits of yacht club membership—like social connections and reciprocal mooring—to the fun of flotillas and the unique character of different marinas, ranging from well-appointed to rustic.
Linda also highlights memorable wildlife encounters with seals, sea lions, and birds, as well as the influence of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly in the area. The episode celebrates the natural and cultural treasures of the region, from the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge to the joy of harvesting local produce that defines the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
🔗 Read the article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/south-sound-washington-by-boat-explore-relax-enjoy-the-view 
🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 
🌐 Linda’s travel blog: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 
🎙️ Also hear this episode on Big Blend’s “Parks & Travel” and “Vacation Station” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Queen Esther on Gettysburg, Resilience, and Her Album Blackbirding

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast celebrates National Arts & Humanities Month with Queen Esther, who completed a National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artist residency at Gettysburg National Military Park in 2020.
Queen Esther reflects on her artistic journey, the emotional impact of her Gettysburg residency, and the themes of her upcoming album Blackbirding. The conversation delves into the historical significance of Gettysburg, the concept of blackbirding, and the power of art in preserving and conveying history. She emphasizes the resilience of the Black community and the importance of understanding the past to navigate the present and future.
The discussion also touches on the role of women in history and politics, spirituality in music, and the significance of artistic expression during challenging times.
🎵 The first single Hold Steady is available here: https://ffm.to/holdsteady 
🎵 Pre-save or order the full album Blackbirding here: https://ffm.to/qeblackbirding 
🌐 Learn more about Queen Esther: https://www.queen-esther.com 
🌐 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org 

Sweet Treats, Fall Flavors and Baking Fun

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “The Peanut Patch” Podcast, Donna George shares the sweet excitement of October as The Peanut Patch in Yuma, Arizona, re-opens for a new season. Beloved for its nostalgic country store atmosphere, farm-fresh peanuts, and decadent treats, The Peanut Patch is the go-to stop for both locals and travelers.
The conversation explores baking favorites like peanut butter cookies (perfect for National Cookie Month!), the soft crunch of freeze-dried candy, and the decadent flavors of fudge. Listeners will also hear about the fun of building fall-inspired charcuterie boards, the versatility of Medjool dates (even paired with wine or baked into cookies), and the growing popularity of custom gift baskets during the holiday season. From spicy-sweet fall flavors like pumpkin spice to classic peanut brittle, The Peanut Patch is all about celebrating seasonal goodness, National Dessert Month, and making life just a little sweeter.
🛒 Shop year-round: https://thepeanutpatch.com/ 
🍽️ Get inspired in the kitchen with Donna’s recipes: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing-category/donna-george/ 
🎧 Listen and follow the podcast (new episodes every 1st Friday): https://peanut-patch.podbean.com/ 
📲 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat Drink & Be Merry" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Fall Festivities in Tulare County, California

From food and drink festivals to fall colors and community celebrations, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California Sequoia Country” podcast highlights the best of the season in Tulare County, California—home to charming towns, local traditions, and beautiful natural settings.
Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:- Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm - Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ - Julia Dix – Tulare Chamber of Commerce: https://www.tularechamber.org/ 
This conversation explores Tulare County’s fall festivities, seasonal food, and cultural heritage, along with outdoor activities like picnicking and enjoying fall colors. From persimmons and pumpkin dishes to honoring veterans and new events like the Holiday Market at Cahuilla Oaks Preserve, this episode celebrates how fall brings together food, nature, and community spirit.
⚠️ PLEASE NOTE: This episode was pre-recorded before the Oct. 1, 2025 Government Shutdown. Please learn more about visiting the parks during this time, here: https://www.visitvisalia.com/articles/visiting-sequoia-and-kings-canyon-during-the-government-shutdown 
📍 Download the free Tulare County Visitor Guide: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe to the Podcast: https://discover-the-sequoias.podbean.com/ 
📡 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel, Vacation Station, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels. Subscribe to the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork