Big Blend Radio

Airing live from Peachtree City, Georgia, this Big Blend Radio "Sweet 16" Champagne Sunday show celebrates 16 years of Big Blend Radio hosted by Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, the mother-daughter team who publish Big Blend Magazines and travel full-time across the country on their Love Your Parks Tour. FEATURED GUESTS:  - Writer Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva"  - Glynn Burrows - Norfolk Tours in England - Steve Schneickert - Hollywood History Podcaster - Margot Carrera - Fine Art Nature Photographer - Mike Guardia - Military History Author - Joey Stuckey - Musician and Producer - Johnny Schaefer - Singer-songwriter  - Nicki Kris - Pop singer/songwriter  - Angela Laws - TrustedHousesitters.com  

You've written your book or article and now it's published. Now what? On this episode of Big Blend Radio, travel writer and publicist Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva" shares tips on how to promote your written work on social media. Promoting your book on social media is basically a 5-Step Process. Here's what is involved in creating an action plan: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/how-to-promote-your-book-or-article-on-social-media/ Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every 1st Saturday. 

Airing live from Peachtree City, Georgia with mother-daughter hosts Nancy J. Reid & Lisa D. Smith, this special Big Blend Radio “NPAF Artists Reunion Show” celebrates over 7 years of hosting the 1st Friday “Toast to The Arts & Parks” Show with the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF).  Featured NPAF Park Artists-in-Residence: - Painter Alice Leese – Fort Union National Monument, Dry Tortugas National Park, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park - Composer and musician Glenn McClure – Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park - Composer and musician Andy Jarema – Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park - Environmental artist Patricia Cummins – Fort Union National Monument - Fiber Artist Nancy Hershberger – Fort Union National Monument  From Hawaii's volcanoes and the ancient Puebloan city complexes of Chaco Canyon to remote Loggerhead Key in Dry Tortugas National Park and the southwest crossroads of historic Fort Union, the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) partners with a wide range of parks and monuments to offer residency programs in places that are known for their unique qualities that inspire out-of-the-ordinary thinking and creativity in artists. Artists selected for NPAF programs range from nationally renowned artists at the height of their careers to those just starting or at the midpoint and looking for an experience to take them to the next step.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Thursday "Travel Tulare County" Show focuses on business, corporate, and group travel in California's Sequoia Country. Hear about lodging and dining destinations, along with unique meeting, conference, and expo venues, and a fun variety of extra activities to enjoy during your meeting, or if you extend your stay. Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include: - Suzanne Bianco - Visit Visalia - Kiley Arce - Tulare Chamber of Commerce Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake. Plan your visit: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/

It's all about Wine Trends to Watch in 2023 on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wine Time with Peggy" show featuring Peggy Fiandaca, who along with her winemaker husband Curt Lawrence Dunham, owns and operates LDV Winery in Arizona. Along with her monthly vineyard update, she also discusses Corks, and talks about her Good Luck Cajun Black-eyed Peas recipe for the New Year. See Peggy's Wine Trends Article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/10-wine-trends-to-watch-in-2023/ Get her Black-eyed Peas Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/peggys-good-luck-cajun-black-eyed-peas/ Wine Time with Peggy airs every 1st Wednesday at 4pm PT / 7pm ET. Learn more about LDV Winery at https://ldvwinery.com/ Music on this episode: "Pour the Champagne" by Jann Klose.​

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Tuesday "Adventures in Asheville" Show focuses on 23+ Must-Do Experiences in Asheville, North Carolina, in 2023. From breweries to rooftop cocktails, music stores to botanical gardens, comedy shows to historic sites, forest bathing to yoga with goats, the Biltmore Estate, and of course wildlife watching in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the scenic views along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and chasing waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest, there's something for everyone, and in all seasons. FEATURED GUESTS - Steve & Karen Wilson - The Lion and The Rose Bed & Breakfast  - Kristy Tolley - Author of "100 Things to Do in Asheville Before You Die". - Kaye Bentley - Ashville Rooftop Bar Tours. - Nicole Will - Asheville Wellness Tours. - Kyle Samples - LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours. Featured music is "Paradise Falls" by Love Bubble.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Military Monday" Show, Mike Guardia discusses the Invasion of the Philippines (December 8, 1941, to May 8, 1942) by the Empire of Japan and the defense of the islands by United States and the Philippine Armies, part of the Pacific Theater of World War II. Appearing on Big Blend Radio's military history shows every 1st Monday, Mike Guardia is an award-winning military historian, educator, and author of over 20 military history books. His latest books are "Coyote Recon: The Forgotten Wars of Colonel Jay D. Vanderpool," and “The Combat Diaries: True Stories from the Frontlines of World War II.” More: https://mikeguardia.com/

Being authentic at work means being true to yourself as an individual. It's knowing who you are, what you need, and what you want, and being unafraid to stand up for yourself in a heartfelt way. On this episode of Big Blend Radio's new "Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley," transformational life coach Shelley Whizin shares the importance of being your authentic self, and how her 3-BE formula will help you at any time, and in any place. Read her article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-three-bes-to-being-your-authentic-self-at-work/ Shelley Whizin is the founder and CEO of the Soul Diving Institute™ and author of "What Do You Bring to the Table? A Savory, Sensory and Inspirational Guide to Living a Yummy Delicious Life." Keep up with her here: https://www.shelleywhizin.com/ and tune in to her "Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley" show here on Big Blend Radio, every first Sunday. 

Elephants are under siege everywhere they are found on the planet. Their declining numbers are a reflection of a world out of balance and a clarion call for humanity to pay attention. On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Show, award-winning documentary filmmaker Louise Hogarth discusses her new film, 'ELEPHANT REFUGEES: A Fight To Survive When Waters Run Dry." The film is now out worldwide on digital platforms. More: https://dolfilms.org/ This episode is part of our special Friday Nature Connection series with guest cohost Margot Carrera who is a fine art nature photographer who is passionate about the environment. More: https://www.carrerafineartgallery.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" show features anthropologist, herbalist, and expert forager Lisa M. Rose, who discusses her beautiful new book “Urban Foraging: Find, Gather and Cook 50 Wild Plants," that's out now through Timber Press. In "Urban Foraging," Lisa puts a metropolitan twist on scavenging for food. From wild apple to wood sorrel, this indispensable guide profiles 50 common edible plants that can be found in the concrete jungle. Interesting recipes show how to transform a harvest into new and creative cooking ideas such as wild apple tarte tatin, honeysuckle honey, and strawberry-knotweed pie. Plus, helpful entries detail how to gather food safely with added notes on further culinary uses and proper harvesting techniques. It's the perfect companion for sidewalk scavengers, adventurous cooks, and all those who want to bring a bit of wildness to the dinner table. More: https://burdockandrose.com/ Special thanks to fine art nature photographer Margot Carrera: https://www.carrerafineartgallery.com/

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs goes over the new California employment laws and regulations for 2023 including FAST Recovery Act, Pay Data and Job Posting Requirements, California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), AB 1949-Bereavement Leave, Changes to Leaves of Absence Rules, Employee Rights in Emergency Situations, and Minimum Wage & Salary. Read his article outlining the laws here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/new-california-2023-employment-laws/ Ward Heinrichs appears on Big Blend Radio very 4th Wednesday. More: https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" Travel Show features travel writer Debbie Stone who shares her outdoor adventures in Page, Arizona. Hear about the geological wonder of Antelope Canyon, and what it's like to go rafting in iconic Horseshoe Bend located within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. SEE HER STORIES & PHOTOS on NationalParkTraveling.com: * Antelope Canyon: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/experience-the-wonder-and-beauty-of-antelope-canyon/ * Horseshoe Bend: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/rafting-horseshoe-bend/ Debbie Stone appears on Big Blend Radio every 4th Tuesday.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio Glynn Burrows, owner of Norfolk Tours in England, shares how to get the most out of your business travel in England. Hear about unique lodging destinations and meeting venues, attractions and activities, and how tour guides can help professionals "get the lay of the land" according to their business needs. Read Glynn's article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/bleisure-in-england/ Glynn appears on Big Blend Radio every fourth Saturday (except this episode because of the Christmas and Winter Holidays). More at https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/

This episode of Big Blend Radio features acclaimed UK singer-songwriter Claire Hamill who discusses her extensive music career and new solo album, “A Pocket Full of Love Songs." Out now through Cherry Red, the album was written during lockdown and features songs from the heart on all aspects of love and life. Claire Hamill is celebrating over 50 years in the music industry. She is known as being one of England's first female singer-songwriters who has toured, recorded, and performed with Ray Davies of the Kinks, King Crimson, Wishbone Ash, Procol Harum, and Jethro Tull. She's also known for her hit “Baseball Blues," and for writing Eva Cassidy's hit “You Take My Breath Away." More: https://clairehamill.co.uk/home

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 4th Thursday "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on 23 unique must-do experiences on and off the historic Jefferson Highway. Created by the Jefferson Highway Association which was originally founded in 1915, the Jefferson Highway is an international highway, also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway," that runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://www.jeffersonhighway.org/ Featured Destinations include Winnipeg and Manitoba Canada; Fort Snelling in Minnesota; Mason City in Iowa; Joplin in Missouri; Pittsburg & Crawford County in Kansas; Tulsa in Oklahoma; Denison in Texas; and Bunkie in Louisiana. Featured music is "Chicken & Waffles" by Johnny Mastro & The Mama's Boys, "Texas Blue Moon" by Shelley King. Plus, hear some Louisiana Hollywood History on the Jefferson Highway by Steve Schneickert. THIS SHOW IS PART TWO OF A 2-PART SPECIAL. LISTEN TO PART ONE HERE. Map image by Mike Conklin

Part two of our special Big Blend Radio's "Winter Solstice Happy Hour" Show celebrates the Winter Solstice as well as Christmas and All Winter Holidays featuring: - Christmas music with Joey Stuckey, an award-winning blind guitarist, songwriter, singer, composer, producer, radio and television personality, music columnist, educator and sound engineer, and, the official music ambassador for Macon, Georgia, the “Southern rock capital of the world!" - Glynn Burrows, owner of Norfolk Tours UK, shares Christmas Traditions of England. - Christmas Hollywood History with Steve Schneickert. LISTEN TO PART ONE, OUR LIVE WINTER SOLSTICE HOLIDAY HAPPY HOUR, HERE.

Airing live from Crossville, Tennessee, this special live broadcast of Big Blend Radio's "Winter Solstice Happy Hour" Show celebrates the Winter Solstice as well as Christmas and All Winter Holidays with music, games, and fun conversations.  Featured guests include: Musicians Michael Ely, Lisa Sniderman "Aoede," and Johnny Schaefer; photographers Margot Carrera and Mark Navarro; Hollywood Historian Steve Schneickert; employment attorney Ward Heinrichs; cardiologist Dr. Jackie Eubany; authors Mike Guardia, East S. M. and Kevin Moore; innkeepers Steve & Karen Wilson - The Lion & The Rose B&B; Peggy Fiandaca - LDV Winery; lifecoach Shelley Whizin; and Arlene Gould - Natchitoches Convention & Tourism Bureau.  LISTEN TO PART 2 OF OUR CHRISTMAS & WINTER HOLIDAY SHOW, AFTER THIS BROADCAST, HERE.

What can you experience in Louisiana in 2023? This episode of Big Blend Radio features Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and Arlene Gould, Executive Director of Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau, who discuss the travel experience and tourism industry of Louisiana. Hear about historic sites and trails, Mardi Gras festivities, nature havens and outdoor recreational opportunities, dining destinations, and so much more. Since taking office in 2016, Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and his team have guided the state to record breaking tourism numbers in each of the last 5 consecutive years prior to the pandemic, cut wasteful spending, and upgraded the State Parks with many becoming profitable through public/private partnerships. Under his leadership, the Department of Culture Recreation and Tourism worked non-stop to revive Louisiana's 4th largest industry – tourism – again welcoming 53 million visitors to enjoy Louisiana's culture, cruise industry, celebrations and culinary excellence. Louisiana remains ranked in the top 10 tourist destination by in polls around the world. More: https://www.crt.state.la.us/lt-governor/ and https://www.louisianatravel.com/ This episode is part of Big Blend Radio's 3rd Tuesday "Go to Natchitoches" show series that focuses on the travel and event experiences of Natchitoches, the oldest settlement in Louisiana. More: https://natchitoches.com/ This episode's music is "House of the Rising Sun" by Johnny Mastro & Mama's Boys based in New Orleans. https://www.johnnymastro.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio features award-winning Brazilian author Heloisa Prieto who discusses her new novel, "The Musician." With over 2 million books sold in Brazil, Prieto is already a household name. But her long-standing success hasn't stopped her from dazzling her readers with lyrical prose and spell-binding stories. With "The Musician," she debuts her first English-written story within the US, uniting Brazilian mythology and the Guarani culture in a magical setting. "The Musician" is out now through Koehler Books. More: https://www.themusician.info/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Quality of Life" Show features children's book editor turned author Jayne Pillemer, who discusses her touching and thoughtful children's book "Still Mine," that's out now through Harper Collins. In the wake of Covid-19 and with school shootings at a record high in the U.S. according to the National Center for Education Statistics, thoughtful books like Pillemer's are an essential balm to the soul, nurturing hope in grieving hearts. In “Still Mine,” Pillemer's lyrical writing and Sheryl Murray's sweet illustrations offer gentle comfort and reassurance to anyone who has experienced loss that you still carry those you love with you in the smallest things—and in your heart—forever.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station Travel Show features Cheryl Ogle, a world traveler, accredited travel adviser, and owner of Hey Wanna Go Travel that specializes in travel to Europe and the UK, as well as river and ocean cruises. Hear her travel tips and how working with a travel adviser can help you plan your best vacation, without costing you any extra money. More: https://heywannago.com/ Big Blend Radio is happy to have Cheryl join our family as a travel expert with shows airing every third Wednesday starting in January 2023. Stay Tuned here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/cheryl-ogle-hey-wanna-go-travel/

Regionalist painter, lithographer, and muralist Thomas Hart Benton (1889 -1975 ) was a son of Missouri, and, although he studied modern art trends in Europe, spent years in New York, and was the first artist to have his picture on the cover of Time Magazine, he moved back to Missouri and made his mark on it with murals across the State and by influencing young artists through his teaching. On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" Show, artist Victoria Chick talks about the life and work of artist Thomas Hart Benton, and the places you can visit in Missouri that preserve and interpret his art and legacy. Read her article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/exploring-thomas-hart-benton-country/ Victoria Chick is a contemporary figurative artist and early 19th/20th century print collector based in Silver City, New Mexico. She appears on Big Blend Radio every 3rd Saturday. See her work: https://victoriachick.com/ 

Featuring guest cohost Steve Schneickert, actor and Big Blend Radio's Hollywood History podcaster, this episode of Big Blend Radio welcomes legendary "Dark Shadows" actress and author Kathryn Leigh Scott. “Dark Shadows” was an American gothic soap opera that aired weekdays on the ABC television network, from 1966, to 1971. The show depicted the lives, loves, trials, and tribulations of the wealthy Collins family of Collinsport, Maine, where a number of supernatural occurrences take place. The series generated two full-length motion pictures “House Of Dark Shadows” (1970) and “Night Of Dark Shadows” (1971). More: https://www.kathrynleighscott.com/  Kathryn Leigh Scott (Maggie Evans/Josette DuPres) and David Selby (Quentin Collins) will reunite for a live reading of O. Henry's classic Christmas short story, “The Gift of the Magi,” first published in 1905. Todd Feldstein's Smartphone Theatre will present the live production, directed by Patrick McCray, and featuring original music composed for piano and played by seventeen-year-old music prodigy, Christian Mirochnikoff. Watch “The Gift of the Magi” on Sunday, Dec. 18th 5PM PT/8PM ET or later on-demand on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8tLu8oNEEM Featured music is "My Christmas Wish" by Nicki Kris. Thanks to The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina. https://www.lion-rose.com/ 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Show, Michael Mehta Webster discusses the Six Rescue Effects in the natural world, and how we can learn from them and work with nature and the environment to combat climate change. Michael's debut book is out now through Timber Press and it's called “The Rescue Effect: The Key to Saving Life on Earth.” A Professor of Practice in the Department of Environmental Studies at New York University, Michael Mehta Webster is an expert in ecology, conservation, philanthropy, and non-profit management. This episode is part of our special Friday Nature Connection series with guest cohost Margot Carrera who is a fine art nature photographer who is passionate about the environment. More: https://www.carrerafineartgallery.com/

Featuring filmmaker Samantha Wishman and dog rescuer Monda Wooten, this episode of Big Blend Radio focuses on the new documentary film FREE PUPPIES which is out now on VOD and DVD in the USA and Canada. FREE PUPPIES! travels across the country's political divide to explore one of the many areas where no public animal services exist, and volunteers -- many of them women -- step in. The story follows rescuers Monda Wooten, Ann Brown, and Ruth Smith, and the network of independent “rescue ladies” who patrol vast rural counties in the Tennessee Valley caring for stray and surrendered dogs. Their grassroots efforts to start up a spay-and-neuter program, rescue countless dogs from euthanasia and neglect, and place them in loving "forever homes" will pluck at the heartstrings of any dog person. More: https://www.freepuppies.us/

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Success Express" Business & Career Show features Lea Brovedani "The Trust Architect" who shares How to Set Your Team Up for Success. As always, her 5 Tenets of Trust (Caring, Commitment, Consistency, Competence and Communication) are a main part of the discussion. Read her article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/setting-your-team-up-for-success/ Lea is a speaker and workshop facilitator on trust who is recognized as a Top Thought Leader on Trust for by the organization Trust Across America, and is the author of “TRUST Me – Restore Belief & Confidence in an Uncertain World” and “TRUSTED – Secret Lessons from an Inspired Leader.” More: http://thetrustarchitect.biz/ Listen to "Trust Talk with Lea" every Third Thursday on Big Blend Radio.

How far would you go to keep what's yours? Debut author Marie Still is searching for the answer in her exciting new psychological thriller, “We're All Lying,” (March 14, 2023, Rising Action Publishing). Exploring the weight of family secrets — and how far we'll go to keep them — this dark, twisty novel is sure to thrill fans of Gillian Flynn and Karin Slaughter. This episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Wednesday "Writers & Authors" Show with Books Forward features author Marie Still who discusses her writing process, and new novel "We're All Lying," plus her books “Beverly Bonnefinche is Dead” and “My Darlings” that will follow in late 2023 and 2024, respectively. She also writes under Kristen Seeley. Find out more about Marie at https://mariestill.com/ More about Books Forward at https://booksforward.com/ 

Known as "Winter's Favorite Town," Park City is one of the most accessible year-round destinations in North America, located 25 miles southeast of Salt Lake City International Airport. From skiing and bobsledding to exploring the historic downtown district and the city's famous Sundance Film Festival, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Tuesday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA features Dan Howard, VP Of Communications at Visit Park City, who shares what to experience during winter in Park City. Plan your visit: https://www.visitparkcity.com/ For more about the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) visit https://www.ifwtwa.org/

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Music Monday" Show features David Libert who talks about his memoir "Rock and Roll Warrior." It's a rockin' rollercoaster ride with the original Alice Cooper Band, Alice Cooper, George Clinton, Parliament Funkadelic, The Runaways, Cherie Currie, “Supermensch” Shep Gordon, Prince, Sheila E, Guns N' Roses, The Happenings, Living Colour, Vanilla Fudge, Bootsy Collins, The Tokens, Brian Auger, and more! As a road manager, artist manager, musician, songwriter, record producer, and booking agent, Libert shares vivid tales from the inner circle of the music industry: on the road, backstage, on private jets, and inside the notorious after-parties with music legends in the era of free-spirit, hard-driving rock ‘n roll and R&B. More: https://www.availableentertainment.com/ pecial thanks to The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina. https://www.lion-rose.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" Show features Ruth Milstein, author of the Gourmand award-winning book "Cooking with Love: Ventures Into The New Israeli Cuisine." Ruth shares cooking tips and how to make her recipe for Chicken Meatballs in a tomato sauce. It's perfect for families and holiday get-togethers. See her recipe here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/chicken-meatballs-in-tomato-sauce/ For Ruth's book and more recipes see https://www.ruthmilstein.com/ 

It's all about Shopping Independent and Staying Independent on this episode of Big Blend Radio's brand new 2nd Saturday “Sunshine Stays” Show with the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels (PSPH), a consortium an association of independently-owned boutique hotels in the desert resort community of Palm Springs, in Southern California. Featured Guests: - Joy Brown Meredith - Crystal Fantasy & Main Street Palm Springs - https://crystalfantasy.com/ and https://palmcanyondrive.org/ - Sam McDermott - Inn at Palm Springs - https://www.innatpalmsprings.com/ - Jason Ball – Old Ranch Inn - https://oldranchinn.com/ SPECIAL TRAVEL DISCOUNT: Both Inn at Palm Springs and Old Ranch Inn are offering our Big Blend Radio audience a 15% discount. Just book online through their websites listed above, and use the code "Big Blend." Offer is valid until midnight, Dec. 31, 2023!  Stay Authentic in Palm Springs: https://www.AuthenticPalmSprings.com

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Friday "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with IFWTWA features travel writer Linda Stewart who discusses her genealogy journey through Scandinavia. After doing online research, Linda and her cousin and great niece visited historic sites and communities in Denmark and Sweden that are connected with their ancestral roots. Read Linda's story here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/genealogy-journey-a-family-affair/ Special thanks to the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) - https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Thursday "New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Association" Show focuses on two Northern New Mexico B&B destinations. Hear about the inns and what to experience in their immediate area. Featured Innkeeper Guests: - Tom & Carolyn Calfee - The Grand Hacienda in Abiquiú Lake - https://www.thegrandhacienda.com/ - Ernesto Quintero - Casa Escondida in Chimayo - https://casaescondida.com/ Stay New Mexico True and Visit: https://www.nmbba.org/

It's all about Christmas and Winter Holiday Gifts for Wine Lovers on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wine Time with Peggy" show featuring Peggy Fiandaca, who along with her winemaker husband Curt Lawrence Dunham, owns and operates LDV Winery in Arizona. Along with sharing her favorite gift ideas, she also shares tips on choosing the perfect wine glasses, gives a winter vineyard update, and explains the wine term, "racking." Wine Time with Peggy airs every 1st Wednesday at 4pm PT / 7pm ET. Learn more about LDV Winery at https://ldvwinery.com/ Music on this episode: "The Best Part of Christmas is You" by Nicki Kris https://www.nickikris.com/

From giant icicles on the Blue Ridge Parkway and hiking to see frozen waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest, to festive fun on the Holly Jolly Grayline Trolley Christmas Tour, Gingerbread Shows at The Biltmore, and Holiday Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Show focuses on Winter Outdoor Adventures and Holiday Fun in Asheville, North Carolina. Featured guests are Steve & Karen Wilson, owners and innkeepers of The Lion and The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a grand pink lady located in the heart of the Montford Historic District. See: https://www.lion-rose.com/ Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Show airs every 1st Tuesday. 

From World War II to the Gulf War, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Military Monday" Show features award-winning military historian, educator, and author Mike Guardia, who discusses Christmas and winter holiday celebrations while at war and during military service. Mike is the author of over 20 military history books including the two children's books “It's Snowing in Hawaii,” and “World War II Night Before Christmas.” Mike Guardia appears on Big Blend Radio's military history shows every 1st Monday. His latest books are "Coyote Recon: The Forgotten Wars of Colonel Jay D. Vanderpool," and “The Combat Diaries: True Stories from the Frontlines of World War II.” More: https://mikeguardia.com/ 

It's a reflective time of year when we look back on the last 12 months, take inventory of our personal and professional lives, and look at what we want to achieve in the future. To help navigate the murky waters of change, life coach Steve Piacente shares insights from his LinkedIn article "For 2023: Go Different, Go Daring," see: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/2023-go-different-daring-steve-piacente/ Steve is a former journalist turned life coach, who is certified by the International Coach Federation, and is also the Director of Training at The Communication Center in Washington, D.C. He is the award-winning author of three novels, “Pretender,” “Bella” and “Bootlicker.” His latest book is “Your New Fighting Stance: Good Enough Isn't and You Know It.” More: https://www.stevepiacente.com/ 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, travel writer Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva," shares her bucket list adventures and detours in Edinburgh, Scotland, and in Dublin, Glendalough, Wicklow, and Kilkenny in Ireland. See her article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/enchanting-bucket-list-travels-ireland-and-scotland/ Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every first Saturday. Follow her adventures at http://allingoodtaste.info/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Friday "Toast to The Parks & Arts" Show features Tanya Ortega, photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF), who talks about the organization's unique month-long artist residencies in locations like Chaco Canyon in New Mexico, and Dry Tortugas and Hawai'i Volcano National Parks. NPAF is a non-profit offering unique Artist-in-Residence Programs, Museum In-Loan Programs, and Workshops inspired by our National Parks, National Monuments, and World Heritage Sites. NPAF has supported over 300 programs, over 120 artists, and been the conduit for over a million dollars in artwork donations. Learn more: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/

From snow shoeing and cross country skiing to winter camping and bird watching, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Thursday "Travel Tulare County" Show focuses on what to experience this winter outdoors in California's Sequoia Country. Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include: - Suzanne Bianco - Visit Visalia - Rebecca Paterson - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks - Denise Alonzo - Giant Sequoia National Monument & Sequoia National Forest Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake. Plan your visit: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" Show, Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun talks about the life and art career of famed Southwest artist Ted DeGrazia, as well as the winter exhibits showcasing his work. Exhibits on display until Jan. 25, 2023, include “DeGrazia's Processions," "DeGrazia's Ballet," and “Rock Talk: The Prehistoric Art of Ted DeGrazia.” Hear about the annual La Fiesta De Guadalupe, and Little Gallery visiting artists. DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. Opened in 1965, it is home to over 15,000 originals of Ted DeGrazia art pieces including oil paintings, watercolors, ceramics and sculptures. There are six permanent collections on display and several rotating exhibitions each year. More: http://www.degrazia.org/ Music on this episode is "Please Remember Me" the title track of the DeGrazia album "Please Remember Me."

This episode of Big Blend Radio features David J. Muchow, an award-winning, thirty-year serial entrepreneur and lawyer, who shares some of the insights behind his new book, “The 7 Secret Keys to Startup Success: What You Need to Know to Win." This unique 327-page practical guide, which focuses on both the business and legal keys to success, is a must-have for every entrepreneur, small business owner, student, and business and law schools. This is the one book every startup and growing business should have! More: https://www.davidmuchowauthor.com/ 

After 31 years, legendary jazz bassist Stanley Clarke, ex-Police drummer Stewart Copeland, and singer songwriter Deborah Holland have Reunited as Animal Logic. As Deborah shares on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Music Monday" show, between 2013 and 2022, the band shared ideas and files, resulting in the two new tracks, “Can You Tell Me” and “Ordinary,” which capture the quintessential, timeless Animal Logic approach. The songs are available on all streaming platforms and also be purchased via Bandcamp at: https://animallogic1.bandcamp.com/ Special thanks to The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Books & Authors" Show features Dr. David Sklar, an award-winning author, emergency physician, professor, and medical researcher. Hear about his brand new novel “Moonstone Hero," a gripping survivalist story about just how far you'd be willing to go to save the life of a stranger. Out now through Volcano Cannon Press, it's an exciting mountaineering adventure set up on Mount Kilimanjaro that features heart-pounding danger, a love triangle amongst climbers, and a timely take on the uncertain balance between duty and heroism in the medical profession. More: https://davidpsklar.com/ 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's SUCCESS EXPRESS Business & Career Show, Glynn Burrows, family historian and owner of Norfolk Tours in England, discusses BLEISURE, the growing new tourism trend catering to travelers who mix business with leisure. This includes regular business travel and sales meetings along with conferences and retreats, industry expos, remote workers, and even digital nomads. As he shares on the podcast and in his article, it's a win-win-win situation for all involved. See Glynn's article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/hopping-on-the-bleisure-train-mixing-business-with-leisure/ Glynn appears on Big Blend Radio every fourth Saturday. More at https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's Nature Connection Show features recognized firefly expert and certified naturalist, Benjamin Pfeiffer, founder of Firefly Conservation & Research. Fireflies are one of nature's genuine wonders, but they need our protection now. Across the United States and worldwide, rapid and large-scale changes to our lands and watersheds mean fireflies are losing the habitats they once knew. Every step we can take to protect land for the fireflies to thrive is a step towards a literally ‘brighter' future for new generations to enjoy. As Ben explains, now conservationists of all experience levels can create their own certified firefly habitats in their own backyard, favorite park or nature preserve to provide a permanent place for fireflies to exist. The Certified Firefly Habitat sign program is a first-of-its-kind sign and certification program designed to address the issues that are causing firefly habitat to decline. More: https://www.firefly.org/ This episode is part of our special Fourth Friday Nature Connection series with guest cohost Margot Carrera who is a fine art nature photographer who is passionate about the environment. More: https://www.carrerafineartgallery.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" Travel Show features travel writer Debbie Stone who shares her experience at Skamania Lodge, a well-known resort in Washington State, within Columbia Gorge country. Surrounded by natural beauty, Skamania Lodge is an idyllic property with inviting guest rooms and common areas, an impressive Northwest art collection, award-winning dining, a spa and fitness center, a swimming pool, hot tubs, golf and disc golf courses, and plenty of other outdoor activities to satisfy any adrenaline junkie. See Debbie's story and photos: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/recharge-with-a-getaway-to-skamania-lodge/ Debbie Stone appears on Big Blend Radio every 4th Tuesday

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show focuses on the Miners Hall Museum in Franklin, on the Jefferson Highway in Southeast Kansas. Featured Guests: - Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association  - Phyllis Bitner - Miners Museum Hall Foundation - More: https://www.minershallmuseum.com/ Created by the Jefferson Highway Association which was originally founded in 1915, the Jefferson Highway is an international highway, also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway," that runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ Featured music on the show is "Sisters of the Coal Dust" by James Byfield & Blind Lemon Pledge. More: http://www.blindlemon-pledge.com/ Special thanks to the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau who represent Louisiana's Oldest City, which is also on the Jefferson Highway. See: https://www.natchitoches.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio features Christy Wood who talks about her recent experiences on the Chief Joseph Trail Ride. A progressive trail ride hosted by the Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC), a portion of the ride is completed each year, with the entire sequence taking thirteen years to complete. Its route traces, as closely as possible, the route Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce took while attempting to escape the US Cavalry in 1877. More: https://www.appaloosa.com/ Christy Wood is now on her second 13-year circuit of the Chief Joseph Trail Ride. She is a world champion horse trainer, instructor, author, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables located in Three Rivers, California, gateway to Sequoia National Park. Christy is in the process of writing a memoir about her experiences in the Chief Joseph Trail Ride, and the book is scheduled to be released in 2023. More: https://www.wdnhorse.com/ 

The “Starving Artist” as a type of lifestyle is a phenomenon born in the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe and one that continued in a modified way into the 20th and 21st centuries in many countries including the United States. On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" Show, artist Victoria Chick talks about the history of the term, "Starving Artist." Read her article here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-starving-artist/ Victoria Chick is a contemporary figurative artist and early 19th/20th century print collector based in Silver City, New Mexico. She appears on Big Blend Radio every 3rd Saturday. See her work: https://victoriachick.com/ Featured painting image: Bedroom in Arles (1888) is a visual representation of the simple living conditions under which Vincent van Gogh lived and worked.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "New Music Friday" Show features songwriter Earl Kayoss and multi-instrumentalist Fernando Perdomo who discuss “Shadows In A Jar,” the sixth studio album, and next installment of their Life on Mars series. Joining Kayoss and Fernando Perdomo on the album are Billy Sherwood (Yes) and Denny Seiwell (McCartney and Wings). Each one of them are very well known in their own right and have extensive credits. It was mastered by Grammy award winning engineer Zach Ziskin, who has numerous credits and awards. The CD includes a booklet featuring all of the lyrics, art and musicians' credits. The album is out today - get it here: https://linktr.ee/shadowsinajar Special thanks to The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/