Big Blend Radio

Discover DeSoto Parish in Northwest Louisiana

Celebrate National Road Trip Day (May 23) with this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show. We’re hitting the road with Charlotte Knotek to explore the scenic and historic treasures of DeSoto Parish, located just south of Shreveport in northwest Louisiana.
From the natural beauty of Toledo Bend Lake to immersive Civil War battlefield reenactments, charming small-town Main Streets, and delicious Southern cuisine, DeSoto Parish offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, rich history, and down-home hospitality. Discover beautiful Greek Revival architecture, seasonal berry picking, historic cemeteries, unique shops, cozy bed & breakfasts, and more than 30 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or road trip enthusiast, this episode will inspire your next getaway along the Jefferson Highway.
🔗 Plan Your Adventure:- DeSoto Parish Tourism: https://discoverdesoto.com - Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org 
📅 Tune in every 4th Thursday at 6pm CST (except holidays) to the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com 

Gearhead Curios & Petrol Motor Quart in Galena, Kansas

Happy National Road Trip Day! 🎉 Join us for a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show, as we celebrate May 23rd with Aaron Perry and Cassandra Ringel, the passionate owners behind Gearhead Curios and the highly anticipated Petrol Motor Quart in Galena, Kansas.
Situated on both the historic Jefferson Highway and iconic Route 66, Gearhead Curios is more than just a souvenir shop – it's a vibrant visitor center and a perfect photo-op spot to create and share your road trip memories, housed in a charming 1939 Texaco station.
Get ready for Petrol Motor Quart, opening soon just two blocks north! This isn't your average lodging; it's a destination designed to transport you back in time. Imagine staying in themed cabins, each a loving tribute to the vintage gas stations that lined these legendary byways. With mid-century decor and architectural nods to different eras, Petrol Motor Quart promises a comfortable and captivating escape into the nostalgic charm of Americana.
Planning a weekend getaway or your next great American road trip? This episode will inspire you to explore the unique history and vibrant present of the Jefferson Highway.
🎧 Listen now and fuel your wanderlust:Gearhead Curios: https://www.facebook.com/GearheadCurios Petrol Motor Quart: https://www.facebook.com/PetrolMotorQuart Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
📅 Don't miss the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast, every 4th Thursday at 6 pm CST: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

Boots Court Motel at the Crossroads of America

Celebrate National Road Trip Day (May 23) with us on a special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show! Our guest, Janna Conklin, provides an insightful overview of what to experience at the renowned and historic Boots Court Motel & Visitor Center, located in charming Carthage, Missouri.
Experience the perfect blend of vintage charm and modern comfort at this beautifully restored boutique gem, nestled along historic Route 66 and the Jefferson Highway at the “Crossroads of America.” Discover why notable guests like Clark Gable and Gene Autry flocked here, and why USA Today recently ranked it the 5th Best Roadside Motel in the U.S. for its commitment to historic preservation and guest experience.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or your next great American road trip, you'll see why the Boots Court Motel on the “Pines to Palms” Jefferson Highway is a must-visit. Stay the night, take a guided tour, or browse their unique collection of souvenirs and take home a piece of history!
🎧 Listen now and start planning your visit:- Boots Court Motel & Visitor Center: https://bootscourt66.com/ - Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
📅 Tune in every 4th Thursday at 6pm CST to the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

A Southern Minnesota Minne-Roadtrip Adventure

Get ready to hit the open road in celebration of National Road Trip Day (May 23)! In this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Jefferson Highway Show, we take you on a Southern Minnesota adventure along the historic Jefferson Highway, spotlighting the charming Minne-Roadtrip destinations of Owatonna, Faribault, and Northfield.
Our featured guests—Glenda Smith, Devin Winjum, and Rachel Trnka—share insider tips, hidden gems, and can’t-miss experiences across these three scenic towns. From historic museums and art centers to hand-rolled candies, cave-aged cheeses, and scenic trails, this episode is your guide to small-town charm, rich history, unique shopping, and delicious dining in Southern Minnesota.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or your next great American road trip, you'll see why this stretch of the “Pines to Palms” Jefferson Highway is a must-visit.
🎧 Listen now and start planning your perfect road trip!
🛣️ Learn More & Start Planning- Minne-RoadTrip: https://www.minneroadtrip.com/ - Visit Owatonna: https://visitowatonna.org/  - Faribault Area Chamber & Tourism: https://visitfaribault.com/ - Visit Northfield: https://www.visitnorthfield.com/ - Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
📅 Tune in every 4th Thursday at 6pm CST (except holidays) to the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com 

Hi-Way Cafe and Western Motel - Classic Road Trip Destinations in Vinita, Oklahoma

Get ready to hit the open road! In this special episode of Big Blend Radio's Jefferson Highway Show, we're gearing up for National Road Trip Day (May 23) with guest Beth Hilburn, co-owner of the retro-charming Hi-Way Cafe and Western Motel in Vinita, Oklahoma. Nestled on both the historic Jefferson Highway and legendary Route 66, these roadside gems are must-stops for travelers seeking nostalgia, great food, and unique attractions.
From the towering 24-ft “Big Bill” Muffler Man and the iconic Mohawk Trail “Big Indian” statue, to their famous Guinness World Record-holding car, Beth shares the story behind these beloved landmarks and how they keep the spirit of American road trips alive. Hear what makes Hi-Way Cafe a family-friendly destination with hearty meals and retro flair, and why the newly renovated Western Motel is a top choice for a clean, comfortable, and affordable stay.
Explore the charm of Vinita, Oklahoma, and discover why this community is a shining stop along the "Pines to Palms" Jefferson Highway—stretching from Winnipeg to New Orleans.
🎧 Listen now and start planning your next great American road trip!
🛣️ Learn More:* Hi-Way Cafe: https://hi-waycafe.com/ * Western Motel: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/western-motel-in-vinita-oklahoma/ * Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
📅 Tune in every 4th Thursday at 6pm CST (except holidays) to the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

Explore the Historic and Sacred Sites of Hawai’i

In honor of Pacific Islander Heritage Month, this Big Blend Radio episode of Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou  explores the sacred sites of Hawai’i and the ancient legends and history that surround them.
✈️ Visit incredible Hawaiian locations like:🌺 Pu’ukohola Heiau (Temple on the Hill of the Whale)🌴 Waipio Valley of the Kings🌀 Hikiau Heiau at Kealakekua Bay🏝️ Pi’ilanihale Heiau – the largest temple in Polynesia🌿 Limahuli Garden on Kauai⛰️ Halawa Valley on Moloka’i🌬️ Nu’uanu Pali on Oahu…and more!
📚 Learn about Linda’s historical novel "Wai-nani: A Voice from Old Hawai’i," inspired by the legendary wife of the warrior-chief who united the islands:🔗 http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/Wainani.html 
🌍 Follow Linda’s travel adventures & books:🔗 https://lostangeladventures.com 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST🎙️ Subscribe to Big Blend Radio:https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 

Tales of Rescue: Dogs, Cats, Horses and Healing

In this heartwarming episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" Show, we highlight inspiring rescue and adoption stories involving dogs, cats, horses — and even wildlife! You'll also get practical tips on how to bond with rescued animals and give them the loving care they deserve.
🎙️ ON THIS EPISODE:* Lisa Smith – The "daughter" half of Big Blend Radio & Magazine’s mother-daughter duo, Lisa is a full-time traveler and seasoned pet sitter. She shares stories from the road, pets she and Nancy have cared for, and touching wildlife rescues from Nancy's experiences.
* Angela Laws – A veteran pet sitter, grief counselor, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com, Angela shares her horse rescue stories, advice on earning trust from rescue animals, and the value of pet sitters.
* Kathleen Walls – Travel writer, author, and passionate feral cat rescuer, Kathleen shares compelling tales of her feline companions, many of whom are featured in her books. Visit: https://katywalls.com/ 
Whether you're a lifelong pet lover or thinking about adopting a rescue, this episode is full of heartfelt stories and helpful guidance.
🐾 Listen to more episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com 

Exploring the Mississippi Blues Trail

🎙️In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox with Lisa, we’re diving into the soul of the South with an unforgettable journey along the Mississippi Blues Trail! 🎸🎤
Join travel writer Lisa Evans as she explores legendary landmarks like Robert Johnson’s Crossroads, 100 Men Hall in Bay St. Louis, and Ground Zero Blues Club in Biloxi—where she caught a powerful performance by Shemekia Copeland. Discover the stories behind the trail’s historic markers and the influential musicians who made the Blues a global phenomenon.
🗺️ Read Lisa’s Full Article:👉 https://rovology.com/united-states/mississippi/my-journey-of-discovery-along-the-mississippi-blues-trail/ 
🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Playlist on Spotify:👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648 
📚 About Lisa Evans: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/