Big Blend Radio

Explore Scotland on a European Waterways Luxury Barge Cruise

Join us on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast as travel writer Debbie Stone shares highlights from her unforgettable European Waterways luxury barge cruise aboard the Spirit of Scotland. Journey through Scotland’s stunning Great Glen, between the historic city of Inverness and the town of Fort William, while taking in breathtaking views, rich history, and unique cultural experiences.
 
Debbie recounts her relaxing and scenic cruise along the Caledonian Canal, with memorable off-boat excursions including:
* Tours of castles and distilleries
* A captivating falconry and birds of prey demonstration
* Visits to historic landmarks like Fort Augustus, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns
 
Learn what makes European Waterways the premier barging company in Europe, with its fleet of 18 luxurious vessels cruising across nine countries, and discover why this intimate, all-inclusive travel experience is unlike any other.
 
📖 Read Debbie’s full article:
https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/explore-scotland-on-a-european-waterways-barge-cruise/ 
 
🧭 Plan your trip:
https://www.europeanwaterways.com 
 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe to the podcast:
https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
 
🖼️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio's “Vacation Station” travel channel
Explore more inspiring episodes on the Big Blend Radio Network:
https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Historic Pensacola, Florida – Blue Angels, Beach Bliss & Coastal Culture

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" podcast, travel writer Terri Guthrie takes you on an unforgettable journey through beautiful and historic Pensacola, Florida—a dream beach destination packed with adventure, charm, and rich history.
From watching the Blue Angels practice from the Flight Line to nighttime kayaking, indulging in ocean-to-table dining, and enjoying luxury accommodations, Terri shares her firsthand experiences and travel tips to help you plan your perfect Pensacola getaway.
While Pensacola is famed for its sugar-white sand beaches, there's so much more to discover. Explore nearly 500 years of history, visit centuries-old landmarks, tour top-tier museums, shop at Florida’s #1 outdoor market, and savor the flavors of the Gulf at the region’s incredible restaurants and cafes.
🎧 Listen now to uncover why Pensacola should be on your travel radar!
📖 Read Terri’s full Pensacola article:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discover-pensacola-florida/
🌍 Follow Terri’s global adventures:https://travelwithterri.net/
📅 New episodes every 4th Monday at 6 PM CST. Subscribe here:https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel and Vacation Station podcast channels.🎧 Subscribe to the full Big Blend Radio Network:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Military History Experiences: Coronado, California to Corning, New York

In this special Memorial Day episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor our nation’s heroes and spotlight Military Appreciation Month with travel writer and editor Kris Grant. She shares the deep military and naval aviation history of Coronado, California, highlighting its connection to naval aviation, Navy SEAL training, and legendary figures like Glenn Curtiss.
The conversation explores life on a naval base, the evolution of military aviation, and the cultural significance of Coronado—from the festive Independence Day Parade to the historic and famously haunted Hotel del Coronado.
Kris also shares insights on other fascinating military history destinations, including:
Dayton, Ohio – A hub of aviation heritage with the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
Hammondsport and Corning, New York – Home to the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum and the scenic Finger Lakes region
🎧 Listen in for inspiring stories that commemorate service and preserve the legacy of America’s military past.
🔗 Websites & Resources:
Coronado Magazine & Coronado Eagle/Journal: https://www.coronadonewsca.com/
Visit Coronado, California: https://discovercoronado.com/
Glenn H. Curtiss Museum (Hammondsport, NY): https://glennhcurtissmuseum.org/
Explore Corning & the Finger Lakes: https://exploresteuben.com/
Destination Dayton (Visitor Info): https://www.destinationdayton.org/
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force: https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/
National Aviation Heritage Area: https://www.nps.gov/daav/index.htm
International Food Wine Travel Writers Association: https://ifwtwa.org/

Honoring Service: Acts of Kindness, Travel, and Military Appreciation

In this heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor Memorial Day and Military Appreciation Month by exploring the deep connections formed through acts of kindness—especially within the military community. The conversation also highlights how travel can deepen our understanding of military history and sacrifice.
Guests Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass travel blog, share their inspiring story of meeting through the nonprofit organization Soldiers’ Angels. They discuss the emotional bonds built through care packages, letters, and food, and how small gestures can create lasting impacts for both soldiers and supporters.Follow their adventures:https://www.wandererscompass.com/
Innkeepers Steve & Karen Wilson of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, and Tiffany Bertram of Tiffany’s Bed & Breakfast in Hot Springs, Arkansas, share how they honor veterans through initiatives like baking for troops and offering free stays for veterans in November. They also discuss veteran support efforts and historical military sites within their communities.Learn more about their inns:https://www.lion-rose.com/https://www.tiffanysbedandbreakfast.com/
Through moving personal stories and thoughtful conversations, this episode shines a light on the power of giving, the importance of remembrance, and the many meaningful ways we can support those who serve.
🎧 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Wanderer's Compass and Military Appreciation03:05 – The Journey of Connection through Soldiers’ Angels05:59 – The Impact of Food and Care Packages09:08 – Building Bonds: From Soldiers to Family12:05 – The Ripple Effect of Kindness and Compassion15:03 – The Importance of Communication and Understanding18:12 – Volunteering and Supporting Veterans21:06 – The Role of Community in Veteran Support23:52 – Personal Stories and Emotional Connections27:13 – Encouraging Engagement with Veterans30:02 – Conclusion: The Power of Giving and Connection38:32 – The Impact of Travel on Understanding History41:53 – Visiting War Memorials: A Personal Journey44:52 – The Importance of Learning Real History48:21 – Reflections on War and Its Consequences54:11 – Exploring Turkey: A New Adventure56:52 – Connecting with Innkeepers: A Tribute to Veterans01:06:04 – Honoring Military History and Service01:09:46 – Community Support for Veterans01:12:39 – Understanding Sacrifice and Service01:20:17 – Exploring Family History and Genealogy01:26:14 – Baking for Troops and Community Engagement
🔗 Keep up with Big Blend Radio’s network of shows:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Echoes of Valor - The Battle of Gettysburg and Gela’s WWII Legacy

In honor of Memorial Day and Military Appreciation Month, this special episode of Big Blend Radio's Way Back When show explores two pivotal military history destinations—Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and Gela, Sicily—revealing the powerful stories they hold and the enduring human cost of war.
Author and military historian Mir Bahmanyar shares the gripping history of Gela, the first European city liberated during World War II. Hear his recent interview with us covering his acclaimed book "The Houdini Club: The Epic Journey and Daring Escapes of the First Army Rangers of WWII" here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/mir-bahmanyar-the-houdini-club/ 
Author Matthew Langdon Cost delves into Gettysburg and the heroic efforts of Joshua Chamberlain and the 20th Maine during the Civil War’s most decisive battle, depicted in his historical novel "At Every Hazard: Joshua Chamberlain and the Civil War. "
 
More than a look back, this conversation invites listeners to visit these historic places, reflect on the profound human sacrifices made, and gain a deeper appreciation for both soldiers and civilians affected by war.
Learn more about our guests:
-- Mir Bahmanyar: https://www.mirbahmanyar.com/
-- Matthew Langdon Cost: https://www.mattcost.net/
Chapters:
00:00 – Honoring Sacrifice: Memorial Day Reflections
03:05 – The Human Cost of War
06:01 – Patriotism and Personal Choices
09:08 – The Impact of War on Society
12:13 – Documenting the Stories of War
15:04 – The Houdini Club: Tales of Resilience
23:40 – Exploring Sicily's Historical Significance
28:01 – The Dark Side of Technology and Warfare
30:20 – The Power of Technology for Good
32:10 – Introduction to Gettysburg and Joshua Chamberlain
35:22 – The Pivotal Role of Joshua Chamberlain
41:04 – The Importance of Historical Memory
46:01 – The Significance of Gettysburg Today
 
Listen to more episodes of Way Back When: https://way-back-when-history.podbean.com/

Celebrating 116 Years of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, to honor the life and legacy of Ted DeGrazia on what would be his 116th birthday (Flag Day, June 14).
Known as one of the most reproduced artists in the world, DeGrazia captured the spirit of the Southwest through bold, expressive paintings that reflected the region’s people, cultures, and landscapes. From his deep connections to Native American and Mexican traditions, to his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, DeGrazia’s work continues to inspire generations.
🎧 In This Episode:* The history and mission of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a 10-acre National Historic Landmark in Tucson* Stories behind current exhibits: Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera and Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia (on display through Sept. 3, 2025)* DeGrazia’s ongoing influence on art, culture, and community dialogue
📍 Did You Know?* DeGrazia once made his own flag* He was featured and honored by Arizona Highways for his unique artistic voice* The gallery provides a cool and creative escape during Tucson’s hot summers
🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org 🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com 

Bay Area Bluesman James Byfield - Lemon Live Album

Join hosts Lisa D. Smith and Joey Stuckey on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s MUSIC TALKS Show as they chat with award-winning Bay Area bluesman James Byfield, also known as Blind Lemon Pledge, about his dynamic new live album, LEMON LIVE!
Following the success of his chart-topping 2024 acoustic blues release Oh So Good, Lemon Live! captures the raw energy, soul, and musical finesse of the Blind Lemon Pledge Band in performance. Since his debut release in 2009, James has crafted a compelling career both as a studio recording artist and live performer, showcasing his versatile style throughout Northern California and beyond. Keep up with James and his music: https://blindlemon-pledge.com/ 
🎵 In this conversation, you'll hear about:- The art of musical storytelling and the magic of live performance- How geography influences musical style and identity- The balance between collaboration and production perfection- James’s evolving journey in blues music and upcoming projects- Favorite live albums, musical heroes like The Allman Brothers, Miles Davis, Van Morrison & The Doors, and dream collaborations
This episode is full of insights, humor, and heartfelt reflections on the joy and purpose of making music.
🎸 About Joey Stuckey:Known as the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia – the “Southern Rock Capital of the World” – Joey is a blind, award-winning guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, and sound engineer. Explore his inspiring work at  https://www.joeystuckey.com/ 
🎙️ Tune in to Big Blend Radio’s MUSIC TALKS with Joey Stuckey every 4th Sunday at 12pm EST.📲 Subscribe: https://bigblendradio.podbean.com/ 

Wine It Up in Oregon, California, Arizona, Hungary & Beyond!

Join us as we Wine It Up and toast to National Wine Day with this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio's Eat, Drink & Be Merry show! This celebration explores the unique characteristics of wines from Oregon, California, Arizona, and Hungary, along with delicious wine pairings and personal wine journeys. 
From vineyard updates to charcuterie boards and the rise of orange wine, this lively roundtable uncorks the diversity of global wine experiences and highlights why every day is worth celebrating with a good glass of wine.
🎙️ Featured Guests:- Peggy Fiandaca – LDV Winery (Arizona) – https://ldvwinery.com - Dave Specter – Bells Up Winery (Oregon) – https://bellsupwinery.com - Jo Clark – Food/Wine/Travel Writer – https://recipestravelculture.com & https://haveglasswilltravel.com - Sharon K. Kurtz – Travel Writer & Photographer – https://sharonkkurtz.com - Clifford Garstang – Author & World Traveler – https://cliffordgarstang.com - Diane Dobry – Travel Writer & Hungarian Wine Expert – https://gettinghungary.com 
🛠️ Resources Mentioned in the Show:- Sharon's Article on Folktale Winery & Vineyards:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/sipping-stories-at-folktale-winery-vineyards - Jo’s Article, Podcast & Travel Guide on Sonoma County:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/sonoma-county-offers-more-than-great-vineyards - Diane's Go-To for Hungarian Wines: http://tastehungary.us 
🍷 For more episodes on food, wine, and cooking, visit:https://eat-drink-merry.podbean.com