Big Blend Radio

Helen Sanders CatPAWS: Transforming Feral Cats Through TNR & Rescue

In celebration of National Pet Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” podcast explores the lifesaving work of Helen Sanders Cat Protection & Welfare Society, a Southern California nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, protecting, and advocating for cats. 
Along with producer and host Lisa D. Smith, co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters.com welcomes special guest Deborah Phelan-Magaldi, co-founder of Helen Sanders CatPAWS for an inspiring conversation about TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return), fostering, rescue partnerships, and community involvement in feline welfare.
The discussion highlights the importance of managing feral and community cat populations through compassionate care, veterinary partnerships, and public education. Deborah also shares the remarkable story of Benny, a rescue cat who overcame trauma and now serves as an ambassador for resilience and healing.
🐾 Learn more about Helen Sanders CatPAWS:https://helensanderscatpaws.com/ 
🐾 Learn about TrustedHousesitters:https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/ 
🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes:https://pet-connection.podbean.com 

Topanga Canyon Adventures: Music, Hiking & Hidden Gems in the Santa Monica Mountains

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Show, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares why she fell in love with Topanga Canyon, the artistic and spiritual enclave nestled in California’s Santa Monica Mountains.
From wildflower-covered hiking trails and sweeping ocean views to live music festivals, eclectic shops, and hidden gathering spaces, Linda explores the unique culture and community spirit that makes Topanga so special. Learn about the canyon’s deep ties to music legends like Neil Young, Canned Heat, and The Doors, along with the history of beloved venues like The Corral.
Linda also discusses local treasures including Theatricum Botanicum, the magical Inn of the Seventh Ray, the artistic sanctuary of Jalan Jalan Imports, and the vibrant community hub of Pine Tree Circle.
The conversation highlights the canyon’s hiking culture, Indigenous history, spiritual traditions, and the restorative power of nature that continues to draw artists, musicians, writers, and seekers to this hidden corner of Southern California. Plus, Linda reads from her essay, “My Season in the Canyon.”
📝 Read Linda’s article: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/linda-ballou-offers-a-toast-to-her-beloved-topanga-town-in-californias-santa-monica-mountains/ 
📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/ 
🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures:https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 

Culinary Adventures in Cayuga County: Finger Lakes Wine, Food & Road Trips

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Noah Howard of Tour Cayuga shares the flavors, history, and scenic beauty that make Cayuga County a standout destination in the Finger Lakes region.
Known as “History’s Hometown,” Cayuga County offers a rich blend of wine tourism, craft beverages, local cuisine, outdoor recreation, and community-driven experiences. The conversation explores the area’s wineries, breweries, distilleries, and artisan food producers, while highlighting the growing importance of sustainable tourism and authentic local connections.
Hear about charming small towns, scenic road trip routes, lakeside picnics, fishing adventures, culinary festivals, and farm-to-table dining experiences that showcase the region’s creativity and hospitality. Noah also shares insights into the Finger Lakes wine culture, local craft beer scene, and why travelers are increasingly drawn to slower, more meaningful travel experiences.
The episode even imagines what a culinary journey through Cayuga County might have looked like for Anthony Bourdain, celebrating the stories and passion behind the region’s food culture.
🌐 Plan your Cayuga County getaway: https://tourcayuga.com/ *** Listen to Last Year's Episode on Harriet Tubman: https://youtu.be/Ypwug8wo_hM?si=g-pHCQL8N1fYtO7_ *** Watch the Foodie Fun in Cayuga County: https://www.tourcayuga.com/cayuga-cuisine/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🎧 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 📰 Check out the Big Blend Radio "Travel Food & Wine "Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 

Caribbean Connections: Exploring Sint Maarten, Saint-Martin & Anguilla

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, hosts Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough discover the vibrant cultures, rich history, and warm hospitality of the Caribbean on an immersive island-hopping journey through Sint Maarten, Saint-Martin, and Anguilla. 
From Carnival celebrations and colorful lolos to French pastries, johnnycakes, rum tastings, and breathtaking beaches, this episode dives deep into the layered identities of these neighboring islands where Dutch, French, English, African, and Caribbean influences beautifully intertwine.
Recorded from Anguilla at the end of their adventure, this conversation explores the region’s fascinating history, culinary traditions, sustainable tourism efforts, and the welcoming spirit that makes these islands feel like “two nations, one heart.” 
Along the way, Joelle and Ryan reflect on cultural preservation, community connections, local food traditions, and the importance of meaningful travel experiences that go beyond the beach.
LINKS & RESOURCES-  Follow Ryan & Joelle’s adventures: https://www.wandererscompass.com/ 
- New episodes air every second Monday on Big Blend Radio: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ 
- Explore the Wanderers Compass Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/WANDERERS-COMPASS-MAG-2026/ 

Directory Loren Goldfarb - 96 Pounds of Dynamite Documentary

What happens when determination, talent, and resilience collide against all odds? In this inspiring Big Blend Radio episode, we explore the powerful documentary "96 Pounds of Dynamite" with director Loren Goldfarb, following the extraordinary journey of Chad “Shorty” McDaniel, a competitive pool player living with brittle bone disease (Osteogenesis Imperfecta).
The film captures Chad’s path from small-town Mississippi pool halls to high-level amateur competition, while also sharing the personal struggles, discrimination, and life-changing decisions he faces along the way. Through humor, grit, and authenticity, Chad challenges assumptions about disability and reminds us of the importance of dignity, focus, and self-belief.
The conversation also dives into the art of documentary filmmaking, the role films can play in building compassion and awareness, and how Chad’s story continues to inspire audiences nationwide.
"96 Pounds of Dynamite" won the Audience Choice Award at the 2026 Vero Beach Film Festival and features executive producer Jeanette Lee, also known as “The Black Widow.”
The film releases May 11, 2026 on Amazon and Apple TV. Learn more at https://dynamite-film.com/ 

The Art of Yielding in Horse Training

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood explores the essential concept of yielding in horse training and why it forms the foundation of effective communication between horse and rider.
Christy explains the difference between yielding and stopping, emphasizing how yielding teaches horses to move away from pressure while remaining responsive and balanced. The conversation covers groundwork techniques, yielding under saddle, and how these skills support safety, trust, and harmony in all riding disciplines—from trail riding to dressage.
You will also learn why patience, compassion, and clear communication are critical in helping horses understand yielding cues and develop confidence. Whether working on leg yielding, obstacle navigation, or everyday handling, this episode highlights how yielding creates a stronger partnership between horse and rider.
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: https://wdnhorse.com/ 
🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com 
📖 Check out the NEW ABC'S of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/ 

Discover Small Town Michigan with Author & Travel Writer Amy Piper

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Show" with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer, photographer, and author Amy Piper shares some of the hidden gems, scenic waterfronts, historic sites, and charming small towns that make Michigan such a rewarding travel destination.
From Great Lakes adventures and shipwreck history to culinary experiences, festivals, and outdoor recreation, Amy highlights the authentic character and beauty found throughout the state. The conversation explores destinations like Mackinac Island, known for its car-free charm and historic atmosphere, along with unique attractions such as Kitch-iti-kipi, the state’s largest freshwater spring.
You will also hear about Michigan’s maritime heritage, picturesque lighthouses, local food and wine experiences, and the importance of small-town storytelling in travel writing.
Amy is the author of "Secret Michigan: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure," and her new book, "Small Town Michigan," releases on May 15, 2026.
📰 Read Amy’s article “Small Town Michigan”:https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/small-town-michigan 
🌐 Discover more of Amy’s adventures and books: https://followthepiper.com/ 
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 
🎧 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 
📰 Check out the Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 

Adventures in California's Sequoia Country: Nature, Community & Cultural Celebrations

Get ready for spring and summer adventures in California’s Sequoia Country, home to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, giant sequoias, scenic caves, roaring waterfalls, and vibrant community events across Tulare County.
In this Big Blend Radio "California Sequoia Country" episode, guests share insider tips on exploring the parks, enjoying seasonal festivals, and experiencing family-friendly activities throughout the region. Learn about guided hikes, educational programs, wildlife safety, and how to make the most of your visit during one of the most beautiful times of year.
The conversation also highlights local traditions like the Woodlake Lions Club Rodeo, upcoming events in Visalia, Crystal Cave adventures, shuttle services, and opportunities to connect with nature through the Sequoia Parks Conservancy.
Whether you’re planning a road trip, outdoor getaway, or family vacation, this episode offers practical travel tips and inspiration for discovering the natural beauty and community spirit of Tulare County. Plan your adventure at https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ 
Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:- Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ - Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm - Daniel Huecker – Sequoia Parks Conservancy: https://sequoiaparksconservancy.org/ - William Valero – Woodlake Lions Club Rodeo: https://www.woodlakelionsclub.com/woodlake-lions-rodeo