Big Blend Radio

The Sacred Act of Taking Time Off

Feeling stressed and guilty about taking time off? You're not alone! In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin offers a refreshing perspective, reframing time off as a sacred act of self-compassion.
Shelley dives into the impacts of overscheduling and the often-overlooked value of spontaneity, revealing the crucial connection between our health and taking a break. She also highlights the profound healing qualities of being out in nature and taking a vacation, emphasizing their role in our well-being. She tackles the common struggle of saying no, the time-consuming nature of social media, and the urgent need to re-evaluate work-life balance.
Discover the power of mindfulness, how to choose joy over guilt, and the "filters" we apply to our lives. Ultimately, Shelley empowers listeners to set boundaries for well-being and rediscover joy.
Key Takeaways:- Taking time off is essential for mental health.- Self-compassion is a sacred act.- Time in nature and vacations offer profound healing.- Choose joy over duty to enhance well-being.- Mindfulness helps manage stress effectively.- Prioritize your own happiness.
Resources:- Read Shelley’s article “Taking Time Off is a Sacred Act of Self-Compassion”: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/taking-time-off-is-a-sacred-act-of-self-compassion/ 
- 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,” “Vacation Station,” and “Parks & Travel” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

AMERICAN MOSAIC: A Musical Journey Across Culture & Place

Join us on The Big Daily Blend show for an immersive exploration of American music! This episode celebrates the vibrant tapestry of sounds that tell America's story, diving deep into its profound connections to culture, history, and identity. We'll navigate the diverse landscape of musical genres, uncover how travel shapes our sonic experiences, and examine the powerful legacy of protest songs throughout history. Hear about iconic artists who shaped the American musical landscape and discover how music unites communities and inspires change. Featuring personal stories and reflections on music's ever-evolving nature, this discussion culminates in a celebration of American music's enduring journey.
FEATURED GUESTS:- Johnny Schaefer – Cohost and award-winning singer/songwriter: https://hearjohnny.com/ 
- Kathleen Walls – Travel writer and author: https://americanroads.net/ and https://katywalls.com/ 
LISTEN TO OUR "AMERICAN MOSAIC" MUSIC PLAYLIST ON SPOTIFY: https://tinyurl.com/ycck3eyn 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's TOAST TO THE ARTS and RANTS, RAVES & ROCK Podcasts. Explore Big Blend Radio's Network of Shows, here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

The Charm of Point Defiance Rose Garden in Tacoma

This episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writer Linda Kissam, “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” who shares her recent visit to the stunning Point Defiance Rose Garden in Tacoma, Washington. From the garden’s rich history and environmental significance to its natural beauty and community value, this conversation is a tribute to the Pacific Northwest’s floral charm. Discover how the region’s climate helps roses thrive, how nature and public spaces foster well-being, and why the garden is a perfect place for everything from peaceful picnics to family outings.
📖 Read Linda’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/point-defiance-rose-garden-in-tacoma/ 
🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 
🌐 Follow Diva Linda’s adventures: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 
🎙️ Also listen on Big Blend’s Garden Gossip podcast channel: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

45th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival - Crafting Louisiana

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show features Dr. Shane Rasmussen, Director of the Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival and NSU’s Louisiana Folklife Center. Held in historic Natchitoches, Louisiana—a destination along the Jefferson Highway—the 45th Annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival takes place Saturday, July 19, 2025, in air-conditioned Prather Coliseum.
Hear about Louisiana’s rich cultural traditions as showcased through music, crafts, food, and community engagement. The conversation also touches on the role of the Jefferson Highway in regional heritage, the healing power of the arts, and the importance of folk culture in education.
Festival Highlights:- Three stages of music, including performances by:* Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band (zydeco)* Amis du Teche (Cajun)* D.K. Harrell (blues)* Kristyn Harris Band (western swing/yodeling)* Smithfield Fair (roots)* Amazing! Rhythm Disciples (gospel)* The Has Beans (swamp pop)- 80+ traditional crafts vendors showcasing beadwork, quilts, soap, pottery, brooms, folk art, and more.- Red Beans & Rice Cookoff  - Louisiana State Fiddle Championship  - Free dance lessons and interactive sessions with the Cajun French Music Association Dance Troupe, Thistle Dancers, Classy Steppers, Louisiana Czech Heritage Dancers, and more.- Workshops & Presentations: yodeling, son jarocho dancing, musical spoons, Creole architecture, folk dolls, and artist Clementine Hunter.- KidFest & Outdoor Heritage Demos including Dutch oven cooking, blacksmithing, and a 19th-century wash day.
More info: https://www.nsula.edu/folklife/folkfest/ Jefferson Highway info: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ Big Blend Radio Network of Shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

California Sequoia Country: Summer Adventures & Community Culture

Celebrate Summer and Parks & Recreation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" podcast! Explore the attractions, outdoor adventures, and vibrant communities of Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, and the Giant Sequoia National Monument.
From towering sequoias and family-friendly events to rich agricultural heritage, historical landmarks, art and entertainment, shopping and dining, this conversation highlights everything you need to plan the ultimate summer getaway. 
Featured Guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council:- 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: http://www.tularechamber.org/ 
🎒 Download the free Tulare County Visitor Guide and plan your getaway: 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" channels. Subscribe to the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Rachel Mari Kimber’s Desert Soundscape: Birds Follow Dry Riverbed

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast features a follow-up conversation with musician and composer Rachel Mari Kimber, the National Parks Arts Foundation’s Fall 2024 Artist-in-Residence at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona.
Rachel discusses her new single, “Birds Follow Dry Riverbed,” a soulful piece inspired by the desert landscapes and experiences during her residency. She shares insights into her creative process, the emotional and healing power of music, and how nature—especially the desert—continues to shape her artistry. The conversation explores themes of harmony, community, and the personal connections music evokes.
Rachel also opens up about upcoming projects including an ambient album and a sound healing release, and talks about her work with Black Forest Society and Happy Joy Harmony.
🎵 “Birds Follow Dry Riverbed” is available on all major music platforms including Spotify, Amazon, YouTube, and CD Baby.
🎧 Listen to earlier parts of Rachel’s residency journey:https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/musician-rachel-mari-kimber-in-saguaro-national-park/ 
🌐 More about Rachel Mari Kimber:https://rachelmarikimber.com 
🎨 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies:https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org 

Savoring Summer: Wine & Food Pairings

From backyard BBQs to sunny picnics, this fun and flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wine Time with Peggy” podcast celebrates all things summer wine and food. Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery, shares delicious seasonal wine and food pairing ideas, vineyard updates, and tips for entertaining during the warmer months.
Tune in for:- Summer wine pairings & food ideas- Cooking with wine: marinating, braising & more- Tips for sipping in the heat- Creative drink ideas for summer parties- The importance of buying local wine & produce
🍷 Don’t miss Peggy’s delicious Loaded Hummus Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/peggys-loaded-hummus/ 
🍇 Learn more about LDV Winery: https://ldvwinery.com 
🎧 Follow “Wine Time with Peggy” on Podbean: https://wine-time-peggy.podbean.com/ 
This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s Eat, Drink & Be Merry and Big Daily Blend channels. Discover more at: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Discover Brandywine Valley: Gardens, History & Culinary Delights

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon,” award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us on a journey through the picturesque Brandywine Valley in Chester County, Pennsylvania — the heart of America’s Garden Capital.
Explore the region’s rich heritage, from the legacy of the DuPont and Wyeth families to its thriving conservation efforts and artistic traditions. Sharon also shares insider travel tips and highlights must-see destinations like the world-renowned Longwood Gardens and Kennett Square, known as the Mushroom Capital of the World. Plus, get a taste of the area’s vibrant culinary scene and garden culture.
📝 Read the full article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discovering-chester-countys-brandywine-valley 
🌍 More on Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com 
📅 New episodes premiere the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station & Garden Gossip channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork