Big Blend Radio

The Living Canvas: Art, Parks, and the Unfolding Human Story

Join us for a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Parks & Arts" as we celebrate American Adventures Month and American Artists Appreciation Month. We're joined by acclaimed photographer and visionary, Tanya Ortega, founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF).
Tanya shares her passion for the deep connections between artists and national parks, highlighting how NPAF's unique artist-in-residence programs are crucial for interpreting and sharing the cultural and historical significance of these treasured landscapes. We explore how artists act as storytellers, unearthing the human history intertwined with nature, and creating art that connects us to our heritage and to each other. 
From personal stories and ancestral connections to the importance of preserving history through archives and libraries, this conversation covers the challenges and resilience of artists working in these natural spaces. We also touch on how technology is shaping the future of art and why honoring the human legacy within our parks is more vital than ever.
It's a deep dive into the powerful role of art in keeping our shared human story alive within America's most beautiful places.
Learn More about NPAF: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 
Resources Mentioned:- Tour NY Public Library’s Famed Schwarzman Building: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/tour-ny-public-librarys-famed-schwarzman-building/ 
- Latest NPAF Artist-in-Residence Interviews: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing-category/national-parks-arts/ 
- NPAF Archive of Artist Interviews & Features in Big Blend Magazines: https://fliphtml5.com/bookcase/xamdz/ 
Listen & Follow:- Toast to The Parks & Arts Podcast: https://arts-parks.podbean.com/  
- Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Historic Main Streets, Downtowns, Villages & Plazas

This episode of Big Blend Radio features a fascinating panel discussion with five seasoned travel writers who share stories and insights from charming historic destinations across the U.S. and abroad. From the soulful streets of Coimbra, Portugal, to the haunted hotels of Granbury, Texas, the conversation celebrates the value of small businesses, historic preservation, cultural richness, and community vitality.
🎙️ Featured Guests * Kathleen Walls – Travel writer & author: https://americanroads.net/ * Debbie Stone – Travel writer & global adventurer: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/debbie-stone-travel-writer/ * Sharon K. Kurtz – Travel writer & award-winning photographer: https://sharonkkurtz.com/ * Joelle Machia – Award-winning travel writer & photographer: https://www.wandererscompass.com/ * Judy Karnia – Travel writer & Nature Therapist: https://travelingnature.com/ 
🔗 Explore the Places Mentioned* Americus, Georgia: https://americanroads.net/americus_11292024.htm 
* Santa Fe, New Mexico:- Eat Like O'Keeffe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/eat-like-okeeffe/ - Margarita Trail: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/sip-and-savor-your-way-along-santa-fes-margarita-trail/ - Savor Santa Fe Magazine Feature: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/oapd/#p=46 - La Posada Magazine Feature: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/etyq/#p=28 
* Granbury, Texas: https://fyi50plus.com/granbury-voted-best-historic-small-town-of-2025/ 
* Fredericksburg, Texas: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-visit-to-fredericksburg-in-the-texas-hill-country/ 
* Kennett Square, Pennsylvania: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discovering-chester-countys-brandywine-valley/ 
* Snoqualmie & Suncadia, Washington:- https://www.facebook.com/share/1AvvPJAymE/?mibextid=wwXIfr - https://www.facebook.com/share/1AfBAcKRBa/?mibextid=wwXIfr - https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AnxG3vhAP/?mibextid=wwXIfr 
* Coimbra, Portugal: https://travelingnature.com/5-best-towns-to-explore-on-your-trip-to-lisbon/ 
⏱️ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Downtown Main Street Villages00:57 Exploring Historic Destinations and Supporting Local Businesses01:45 Exploring Americus, Georgia: A Historic Journey06:51 Ghost Stories and Historic Hotels12:04 Architectural Wonders of Main Streets14:36 The Charm of Local Hardware Stores14:57 Exploring Santa Fe's Historic Plaza25:16 Cultural Significance and Community Hub26:11 Exploring Granbury: A Historic Gem in Texas28:57 Charming Downtown and Haunted History31:48 Culinary Delights and Unique Shopping Experiences33:33 Exploring Snoqualmie: A Hidden Gem in Washington State40:07 Cultural Significance and Community Spirit42:49 Film and Television Connections: Twin Peaks and Northern Exposure43:18 Exploring Roslyn: A Charming Village Experience46:03 The Economic Balance of Small Towns47:48 Preserving Authenticity in Community Development48:11 Exploring Coimbra: A Journey Through History01:01:22 The Vibrant Culture of Coimbra01:02:46 Fado Music: The Soul of Portugal
📰 This is the final episode in our July series celebrating Independent Retailer Month, but stay tuned — we’ll continue exploring more historic downtowns, main streets, and village destinations in upcoming shows. Be sure to sign up for the newsletter at https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/join-our-newsletter/ to get updates and our special digital magazine coming in November. 

Bonnie Comfort: Staying Married is the Hardest Part

Join Big Blend Radio for an intimate and insightful conversation with bestselling author, respected psychologist, and marital expert Bonnie Comfort. In this episode, Bonnie delves into her powerful new memoir, "Staying Married is the Hardest Part: A Memoir of Passion, Secrets, and Sacrifice" (She Writes Press, June 17, 2025).
Prepare for an unvarnished look at the complexities of marriage as Bonnie shares her personal journey and professional expertise. We explore the often-unspoken realities of expectations, communication challenges, and intimacy, and examine the profound impact of societal norms on personal relationships. From navigating trust and betrayal to the vital importance of self-discovery, Bonnie encourages an open dialogue about the triumphs and tribulations that define long-term commitment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of love, partnership, and the courageous journey of staying married.
Learn more and get your copy of "Staying Married is the Hardest Part" at http://bonniecomfort.com 
Chapter Notes:00:00 – Introduction to Bonnie Comfort and Her Memoir02:45 – The Realities of Marriage and Parenthood05:37 – Disillusionment in Relationships: When Fantasy Meets Reality08:00 – The Impact of Power Dynamics in Relationships10:44 – Communication and Sexuality in Marriage: Breaking the Silence13:35 – The Influence of Pornography on Relationships16:24 – Navigating Consent and Boundaries: Essential Conversations18:53 – The Challenges of Rebuilding Trust After Betrayal21:42 – Expectations and Reality in Marriage: Bridging the Gap24:20 – The Importance of Open Dialogue: Fostering True Connection26:52 – Conclusion and Reflections on Marriage: A Journey of Growth

The Art of Adaptation: Life After Journalism

Join us for an inspiring "Success Express" conversation with Jason Ball, as he shares his remarkable pivot from a thriving career in broadcast journalism to co-owning the charming Old Ranch Inn in Palm Springs with his husband. But Jason's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there! He also delves into the exciting venture of launching his  "Life After News" podcast and the "Desert Dispatch" Palm Springs newsletter, demonstrating how passion and adaptable skills can lead to diverse new paths.
This engaging episode offers an honest look at the exhilarating challenges and profound rewards of entrepreneurship across multiple platforms. Jason also provides a compelling insider's perspective on the ever-evolving landscape of journalism, discussing the critical importance of supporting local news and the vital role investigative reporting plays in our communities. Discover the invaluable, transferable skills that journalists possess and why adaptability is not just a buzzword, but an essential trait in today's fast-paced world, whether you're breaking news, making beds, or creating new media.
This discussion highlights the significance of community, the future of journalism in a digital age, and the unpredictable nature of life that often leads to our most fulfilling ventures.
Key Takeaways:- Life is unpredictable, and embracing change can lead to new and diverse opportunities.- The journey from a corporate career to multi-faceted entrepreneurship can be incredibly rewarding.- Journalists possess a wealth of transferable skills, invaluable in diverse fields like hospitality and new media.- Supporting local journalism is crucial for community engagement and informed citizens.- Adaptability is the cornerstone of success in both career transitions and the evolving media landscape.
Chapters:00:00 Embracing Change in Life and Career06:47 The Journey of Running an Inn11:21 Life After News: Transitioning Careers18:49 The Evolution of Media and Newsletters21:05 The Evolution of Podcasting and Journalism23:56 Navigating the New Media Landscape25:22 The Importance of Adaptability in Journalism29:29 The Shift to Remote Work and Technology in Media33:05 The Journey into Journalism37:23 Supporting Local Journalism and Its Challenges
Keep up with Jason:- Old Ranch Inn in Palm Springs: https://oldranchinn.com/    - Life After News Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-after-news/id1814231257 - Desert Dispatch Newsletter: https://desertdispatch.beehiiv.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Quality of Life" Channel. 

Handlebar Highlights: American Cycling Adventures

Join us for Part 1 of "Handlebar Highlights," an exhilarating journey into American Cycling Adventures! In celebration of National Parks & Recreation Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show features renowned travel writer Terri Guthrie. She shares her personal experiences and insights from some of the most iconic bike rides across America.
Discover the unparalleled joys and unique challenges of cycling through diverse landscapes – from the breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the serene paths of Austin’s Lady Bird Lake and Northern Michigan’s beautiful Leelanau Trail. Terri also delves into the historical significance of routes like the Natchez Trace Parkway and highlights the vibrant cycling cultures found in major cities such as Washington D.C. and New York City.
Whether you're an avid cyclist or simply love to explore, this episode offers inspiration and practical tips for experiencing the beauty of America on two wheels.
Key Takeaways:- Cycling provides a unique and immersive perspective on exploring American destinations.- Experience iconic landmarks and breathtaking scenery, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Lady Bird Lake.- Discover peaceful and historically rich routes, such as the Natchez Trace Parkway.- Learn how e-bikes can make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels.- Gain insights into the rewarding, yet sometimes challenging, aspects of urban cycling in cities like NYC and Washington D.C.- Understand how cycling connects you more deeply with nature and local culture.
Where to Learn More:- Read Terri’s accompanying article: Find more details and photos in "Handlebar Highlights: American Cycling Adventures" on our site: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/handlebar-highlights-american-cycling-adventures - Listen to more from Travel with Terri: Tune in weekly to the podcast: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ - Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

The Heart of the Community: Main Streets, Historic Downtowns & Villages

Part 2 of 3 in our “Main Streets, Villages, Historic Downtowns & Plazas” series celebrating Independent Retailer Month!
This episode of Big Blend Radio features a lively panel discussion exploring the vital role of Main Streets and historic downtowns in shaping community identity, boosting local economies, and enhancing cultural tourism. From the preservation of architecture and museums to the rise of food trails, local bookstores, and festivals, our guests highlight how small-town authenticity and community engagement drive revitalization and lasting impact.
🎧 Panel Guests:- Jeffrey Spear – Food Writer & Award-Winning Cookbook Author: https://spearwrites.com/ - Clifford Garstang – Award-Winning Author & Editor: https://cliffordgarstang.com/ - Matt Cost – Award-Winning Author: https://www.mattcost.net/ - Diane Dobry – Travel Writer: https://gettinghungary.com/ & https://discoverydaze.com/ 
🕰️ Chapters:00:00 – Introduction02:47 – Community & Tourism05:32 – Authenticity in Downtowns & Villages08:11 – Personal Experiences in Downtowns10:51 – Historical Significance of Villages13:31 – Balancing Modern Needs with Historical Integrity16:05 – The Role of Bookstores in Community18:55 – Culinary Experiences in Downtowns21:30 – Conclusion and Future of Main Streets26:46 – Exploring Bardstown: The Bourbon Capital28:44 – Culinary Delights of Staunton30:25 – Brunswick, Maine: A Seafood Paradise32:06 – Sag Harbor: A Taste of the Hamptons35:20 – The Great Bagel Debate36:52 – Winter Park: Art and History38:20 – Museums in Downtowns43:16 – Libraries: The Heart of the Community47:53 – Hammond: Cajun and Creole Influences51:17 – Revitalization Success Stories54:08 – Culinary Adventures in Historic Downtowns56:29 – Future Destinations & Final Thoughts
🔗 Explore the Places Mentioned:- Main Street America: https://mainstreet.org/ - Brunswick, Maine: https://mainstreetmaine.org/brunswick-me/ - Hammond, Louisiana: https://www.downtownhammondla.com/visitors - Sag Harbor, New York: https://discoverydaze.com/2021/11/15/sag-harbor-li-a-walk-through-history/ - Staunton, Virginia: https://visitstaunton.com/ - Park Avenue District, Florida: https://parkavenuedistrict.com/ - Bardstown, Kentucky: https://www.visitbardstown.com/ 
📌 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's “Vacation Station” and “Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore more Big Blend shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Ted DeGrazia Paints Papago Indian Legends

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, shares the fascinating stories behind the permanent exhibit “DeGrazia Paints Papago Indian Legends.” Created in 1975, the series was inspired by traditional Papago (now Tohono O’odham, meaning “desert people”) legends, including The Creation of the World, The Monster of Quitovac, The Eagle-Man, and Ho’ok. Through vivid, expressive imagery, DeGrazia honored these Indigenous stories, helping preserve their cultural significance through visual storytelling.
Lance also talks about the life and legacy of renowned Southwest artist Ted DeGrazia, whose bold work remains among the most reproduced in the world. The conversation covers DeGrazia's deep ties to Native American and Mexican heritage, his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, and his influence on generations of art lovers.
You'll also hear about the current rotating exhibits on display through September 3, 2025: “Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera,” “Louise Serpa’s Portraits of Ted DeGrazia,” and “The Way of the Cross.” 
Located in Tucson, Arizona, the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark that houses more than 15,000 original works. Open 361 days a year, the gallery offers a unique glimpse into the artistic spirit of the Southwest.
🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org 🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com 
This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Way Back When,” and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

The Cravens Band: New Album “Strangers to the Truth”

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Music Talks with Joey Stuckey” features a lively and insightful conversation with The Cravens Band, diving into theiR new album “Strangers to the Truth."
Formed in 2014 by brothers Bill and John Storch, The Cravens are a West Palm Beach-based band known for their genre-blending sound that fuses classic rock, melodic hard rock, glam pop, and Americana. With three studio albums, a live album, an EP, and several standout singles, their music continues to resonate across streaming platforms and radio stations.
Featured on this episode are clips from two new tracks from Strangers to the Truth: “Big Ole Sky” and “Around the Bend.” The band shares insight into their writing and recording process, their evolving lineup, and the importance of staying authentic to their musical voice.
The Cravens are:- Bill Storch – Vocals, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Keyboards- John Storch – Vocals, Acoustic & Electric Guitars- Dennis Ambrose – Bass, Guitars- Bill Meredith – Drums, Percussion- David Simone – Guitars
Joey Stuckey, an award-winning blind guitarist, producer, educator, and the official Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia, also discusses his creative workflow, the assistive technology he uses in the studio and on stage, and the enduring importance of musical dynamics and collaboration.
🎧 Episode Highlights:- The Cravens’ evolution and continued success in the South Florida music scene- Insights into the making of Strangers to the Truth- How live performances bring new energy to their music- Joey’s experiences with new adaptive tech for the visually impaired- Music festival culture and creative collaboration
🎶 Learn more:The Cravens – https://cravenmusic.net Joey Stuckey – https://www.joeystuckey.com 
This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll” and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork