Big Blend Radio

Navigating Trust in the Age of AI

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUCCESS EXPRESS Business & Career Show, Lea Brovedani, The Trust Architect, explores the complex relationship between trust, artificial intelligence, and human interaction.
She discusses the limitations of AI in understanding emotions and judgment, the importance of caring human relationships, and why personal experiences outweigh AI-generated recommendations. The conversation highlights how to balance technology with authenticity, ensuring that trust remains at the heart of our connections.
🔑 Key Takeaways:• Trust is built through relationships and accountability.• AI lacks human judgment and lived experience.• Trust grows when we feel others have our best interests at heart.• AI is only as good as the input it receives.• Personal experiences are more valuable than AI-generated recommendations.
📘 Lea Brovedani has been named one of North America’s Top Thought Leaders on Trust by Trust Across America. She’s an author, speaker, and workshop facilitator. Her books include:- Trust Me: Restore Belief & Confidence in an Uncertain World- TRUSTED – Secret Lessons from an Inspired Leader
Beyond her leadership work, Lea is also a certified death doula, providing compassionate guidance and support for end-of-life planning.
🔗 Learn more about Lea’s work on trust: https://leabrovedani.com🔗 Explore her end-of-life services: https://souljourneydoula.com 
🎙️ Follow the SUCCESS EXPRESS Podcast: https://success-express-business.podbean.com/ 

Filmmaker Spencer Cohen - The Compatriots

In observance of Hispanic Heritage Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features award-winning filmmaker Spencer Cohen, who discusses his powerful debut feature, “The Compatriots.”
Inspired by Cohen’s real-life best friend, a Dreamer from Peru, The Compatriots follows Javi (Rafael Silva), an undocumented Latino immigrant facing deportation, who reconnects with his estranged childhood friend Hunter (Denis Shepherd). Together, they embark on an emotional journey to prevent Javi’s expulsion from the only country he has ever called home.
Balancing serious themes with humor and heart, Cohen shares how audiences have connected deeply with the story, sparking important conversations about immigration, identity, friendship, and LGBTQIA+ experiences. released digitally in the US and Canada, the film honors the diverse contributions and challenges of Hispanic and Latin American communities, making it especially meaningful during Hispanic Heritage Month.
🌐 Learn more about the film: http://www.thecompatriotsfilm.com  

Pet Sitting 101 with Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters

In celebration of National Pet Sitter Education Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” show dives into the world of pet sitting with co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters. This inspiring conversation highlights the lifestyle, responsibilities, and education required for pet sitters, and how the experience can transform both lives and careers.
Learn how to:- Build trust and communicate effectively with pet parents- Create a strong, compelling pet sitting profile- Gain valuable experience through volunteering- Understand animal behavior and provide personalized care- Prepare for emergencies and veterinary needs- Connect with the larger pet sitting community
🐾Learn more about Trustedhousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ 
🐾 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com 
🎙️ This show also streams on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend” channel.

Jack London and Me – A Reading by Linda Ballou

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" podcast, travel writer and author Linda Ballou reads an excerpt from her story “Jack London and Me”, featured in her book Lost Angel Unleashed and in the 2024 San Francisco Writers Conference Anthology, "How We Change."
This reading first aired on Big Blend Radio’s special “Feast of Words” Anthology Show, celebrating writers and the transformative power of storytelling. Linda’s piece reflects on Jack London’s adventurous spirit, his influence on her own journey, and the timeless connection between literature and travel.
📝 Learn More & Read:🔗 Lost Angel Unleashed Book: http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/LostAngelUnleashed.html 
🔗 How We Change Anthology: https://www.amazon.com/How-Change-Foundation-Conference-Anthologies/dp/1647150116/ 
🔗 Linda’s full episode covering Jack London: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/linda-ballou-jack-london-and-me/ 
🌍 Follow Linda’s travel adventures & books:🔗 https://lostangeladventures.com 🔗 http://www.lindaballouauthor.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 "A Toast to The Arts" Podcast Channel.  Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Fall Festivals & Amtrak Adventures in Coastal Mississippi

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans shares the fun, flavor, and festivities of Coastal Mississippi in the fall and winter seasons. From the brand-new Amtrak service connecting the region to New Orleans, to lively events like the Cruisin’ the Coast classic car celebration, the Hummingbird Festival, the Peter Anderson Festival, and the sparkling Gulfport Harbor Lights Festival, this episode is all about culture, history, and community spirit on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Lisa also talks about exploring historic landmarks like Beauvoir and its Fall Muster Civil War reenactments, and shares how the Coastal Mississippi Attractions Pass helps visitors get the most out of their trip. Whether you’re arriving by train or car, this vibrant region is ready to welcome travelers looking for adventure, artistry, and holiday magic.
🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by travel:👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648 
🗺️ Coastal Mississippi Travel Resources:* Attractions Pass: https://www.coastalmississippi.com/plan/attractions-pass/ * Amtrak Service: https://www.coastalmississippi.com/plan/transportation/amtrak/ * Hummingbird Festival: https://www.coastalmississippi.com/event/7th-annual-hummingbird-festival/33975/ * Peter Anderson Festival: https://peterandersonfestival.com/ * Beauvoir & Fall Muster: https://www.visitbeauvoir.org/fall-muster * Cruisin’ the Coast: https://cruisinthecoast.com/ * Vicari Car Auctions: https://www.vicariauction.com/ * Gulfport Harbor Lights Festival: https://gulfportharborlights.com/ 
📚 Lisa Evans is the author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die🌐 https://writerlisa.com/ 🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans 
📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Big Daily Blend" channels. Explore the Network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Exploring the State Fair of Texas 2025

Join us for a deep dive into the heart of Texas culture with a special episode dedicated to the Texas State Fair! In this conversation, travel writer Terri Guthrie explores the rich history, endless entertainment, and famous food that make the fair a beloved annual event. 
Learn why this tradition has been a Texas institution since 1886 and how it promotes community involvement and local agriculture. From the iconic Big Tex to the unique culinary creations and diverse music festival, Terri covers all the must-see highlights. Plus, she shares essential tips for planning your visit to fully experience everything the fair has to offer. The Texas State Fair runs from September 26 - October 19, 2025.
Key Takeaways:- The Texas State Fair is a cherished family tradition for many.- Running since 1886, it's one of the oldest fairs in the country.- It features a wide variety of entertainment and activities for all ages.- Food is a major highlight, known for its unique and creative culinary concoctions.- The fair promotes community involvement, education, and supports local agriculture.- Big Tex is an iconic symbol and a central part of the fair experience.- The fair includes a large-scale music festival with diverse genres.- Planning your visit is crucial to enjoy the fair fully.- It is a significant and important cultural event in Texas.
For more information and to plan your visit, check out the official Texas State Fair website: https://bigtex.com/ 
Follow Terri’s adventures:https://travelwithterri.net/  https://www.instagram.com/travelwithterri/ https://www.youtube.com/@travelwithterri  https://www.facebook.com/travelwithterrifromtexas  
🎙️ Listen to Travel with Terri weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 
🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Exploring Indonesia: Beyond Bali with Inga Aksamit

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) features award-winning author, globe-trotting adventurer, and veteran oncology nurse Inga Aksamit. She shares her insights into the rich cultural diversity, natural beauty, and culinary wonders of Indonesia beyond Bali.
With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers travelers vibrant marine life, coral reefs, unique cultural traditions, and regional cuisines that make every destination an adventure. Inga highlights lesser-known islands, the importance of sustainable tourism, and the value of respecting local cultures while traveling. She also shares her perspective on travel writing, managing inter-island logistics, and the role of organizations like IFWTWA in supporting travel writers.
📖 Read Inga’s stories about exploring Indonesia:- Beyond Bali: Your Indonesia Island Itinerary Guide – https://ingasadventures.com/2025/08/04/beyond-bali-your-indonesia-island-itinerary-guide/ - Thinking of Visiting Indonesia? Don’t Stop at Bali — Here’s Where to Go Next – https://medium.com/batw-travel-stories/thinking-of-visiting-indonesia-dont-stop-at-bali-here-s-where-to-go-next-3d99da23854c 
🌐 Follow Inga’s adventures: https://ingasadventures.com/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🌐 Follow this podcast, also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Parks & Travel" channels: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m 

Author Rudy Ruiz - The Border Between Us

In observance of Hispanic Heritage Month and National Literacy Month, Big Blend Radio welcomes award-winning author Rudy Ruiz to discuss his latest novel, The Border Between Us. Longlisted for the Joyce Carol Oates Prize, this poignant coming-of-age story follows Ramón López, a young man growing up on the U.S.-Mexico border who dreams of becoming an artist in New York while navigating the weight of family expectations, cultural identity, and the sacrifices tied to the American Dream.
In this conversation, Ruiz shares insights on the immigrant experience, bilingualism, and the complexities of cultural identity. He reflects on family dynamics, the strength of women in his narrative, and the role of literacy in empowering dreams and aspirations. Ruiz also highlights how storytelling can challenge stereotypes, foster understanding, and create community across borders.
Listen as we explore themes of ambition, sacrifice, resilience, and belonging, all through the lens of one of today’s most authentic voices in borderland literature.
Learn more about Rudy Ruiz and his work at: https://rudyruiz.com/