in honor of Armed Forces Day, we're spotlighting this episode of Big Blend Radio’s WAY BACK WHEN History Show featuring Mir Bahmanyar—acclaimed author, military historian, and TV/film producer—discussing his gripping new book, "The Houdini Club: The Epic Journey and Daring Escapes of the First Army Rangers of WWII." A former U.S. Army Ranger who served in the Second Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Mir Bahmanyar brings unmatched authenticity to the story of WWII’s elite “Darby’s Rangers.” He shares the untold, uncensored saga of the original Army Ranger battalions—highlighting their brutal training, combat missions across North Africa, Sicily, France, and Italy, and the legendary POW escapes that earned them the nickname “The Houdini Club.” Bahmanyar draws from firsthand interviews, personal correspondence, and newly uncovered historical sources to portray the raw courage and human drama behind one of America’s most daring military units. His military expertise, deep research, and storytelling make this episode a must-listen for history lovers, military buffs, cultural travelers, and fans of WWII true stories. Mir Bahmanyar holds a B.A. in History from University of California at Berkeley and an M.A. in War Studies from King's College London. Mir served on the Board of Directors for the 75th Ranger Regiment Association and was an Associate Historian of the World War Two Ranger Battalions Association. Learn more about his work and books: www.mirbahmanyar.com/ Subscribe to Big Blend Radio's WAY BACK WHEN History show, here: way-back-when-history.podbean.com/…

🍕 National Pizza Party Day is HERE! 🎉 Join us for a fun and delicious episode of Big Blend Radio's HAPPY HOUR as we celebrate everything pizza! From classic deep dish and thin crust debates to the age-old question of pineapple on pizza, we're diving deep into the world of everyone's favorite food. We explore unique pizza parlors and ask our fantastic guests the ultimate pizza party question: If you could invite ANY three people (alive, passed on, or fictional) to a pizza bash, who would they be and what kind of pizza are you serving? Our special guests include: 🍕 Peggy Fiandaca, LDV Winery: https://ldvwinery.com/ 🍕Jeffrey Spear, Branding Expert & Writer: https://spearwrites.contently.com/ & https://www.studiospear.com/ 🍕Rose Palmer, Travel Writer & Photographer (live from a cruise!): https://quiltripping.com/ 🍕Clifford Garstang, Acclaimed Author: https://cliffordgarstang.com/ Craving some pizza inspiration? Check out these recipes and articles: 🍕 Chef Ivan's Pizza Dough: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/lets-make-pizza/ 🍕 Peggy's Quick & Fresh Marinara: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/peggys-quick-and-fresh-marinara-recipe/ 🍕 Giada's Positano Pizzas: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/positano-pizzas/ 🍕 Spicy Veggie Pizza-Dilla: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/spicy-veggie-pizza-dilla/ 🍕 Margherita French Bread Pizza: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/margherita-french-bread-pizza/ 🍕 5 Italian Foods You Won't Find in Italy: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/five-italian-foods-you-wont-find-in-italy/ Don't forget to check out this episode on the Big Daily Blend and Eat, Drink & Be Merry channels of the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

In this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie”, we observe National High Blood Pressure Education Month by diving into the realities of high blood pressure (hypertension) and its impact on heart health. Known as the “silent killer,” hypertension affects 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. and often presents no symptoms until a serious event, such as a stroke or heart attack, occurs. Dr. Jacqueline Eubany, cardiologist and author of “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story,” shares key lifestyle tips to lower your blood pressure naturally: - Exercise more 🏃‍♀️ - Eat less salt 🧂 - Drink in moderation 🍷 - Get better sleep 😴 🎧 Listen & subscribe: https://hearthealthyliving-drjackie.podbean.com/ 📘 Learn more: https://womenandheartdiseasebook.com/ 🔔 New episodes every 2nd Wednesday! Also on Big Blend’s “Quality of Life” & “Big Daily Blend” channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

In honor of Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we're revisiting this 2024 episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast, where Debbie shares her adventures in Samoa, a small, Polynesian island country in the central South Pacific Ocean, halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii. Samoa is made up of nine volcanic islands, four of which are inhabited. Along with its sublime landscape of white sand, palm tree-lined beaches, verdant rainforests, and dramatic mountain terrain, Samoa is known for its genuine hospitality. Read Debbie's article about her experiences, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-rewards-are-many-for-those-who-venture-to-samoa/ Also read about her visit to American Samoa National Park: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/visiting-the-national-park-of-american-samoa/ Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here: http://tinyurl.com/m6z7v6ms…

In honor of Military Appreciation Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcastwith Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough—founders of Wanderers Compass Travel Blog—takes listeners on an immersive journey through The Presidio in San Francisco. Spanning 1,500 acres next to the Golden Gate Bridge, this unique National Park Service site blends natural beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural intrigue into one unforgettable destination. From crashing Pacific waves to towering eucalyptus groves, The Presidio is a place of quiet wonder and powerful storytelling. Joelle and Ryan dive into its rich history and share personal highlights, including their Top 14 Things to Do, dining favorites, and lodging tips. 📝 Read their article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-the-presidio-san-franciscos-best-kept-secret/ 🌍 Follow Wanderers Compass: https://www.wandererscompass.com/ 📅 New Episodes: Catch Wanderers Compass every second Monday on Big Blend Radio: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ 🎧 Also featured on “Vacation Station," "Big Daily Blend,” "Parks & Travel" and "Way Back When" podcast channels. Listen on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

In this heartwarming and inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio, we raise a year-round toast to the incredible women who shape our lives — celebrating motherhood in all its forms. From powerful personal stories to fascinating insights into the animal kingdom and human history, this special show goes far beyond a single day of recognition. Nancy J. Reid & Lisa D. Smith, the mother-daughter duo behind Big Blend Radio, kick off the show with heartfelt reflections from their adventures as pet sitters while they travel full-time, offering a unique look at maternal instincts in the animal world. Featured Guests: - Christy Wood – World champion horse trainer, author, and judge, Christy talks about how her mother supported her on her equestrian career journey. More at: https://wdnhorse.com/ - Aryn Youngless – Genealogist and author, Aryn explores the historical role of mothers through the lens of family ancestry, and the story of great grandmother. More at https://www.genealogybyaryn.com/ - Terri Guthrie – Travel writer and world traveler, Terri talks about how her husband Ron’s mother nudged him to get a higher education and become a fighter pilot. More at https://travelwithterri.net/ - Heidi Sander – Travel journalist and award-winning poet, Heidi reflects on her relationship with her mother and reads two poems from her book, “To Mom, With Love.” More at https://heidisander.com/ More Resources: - “My Mom. Her Story: A Legacy Journal” by Aryn Youngless: https://a.co/d/7JUj1aR - “To Mom, With Love: Poetry Collection” by Heidi Sander: https://tinyurl.com/2s4665y7 - Big Blend Radio with Ron Guthrie, Terri’s husband, about becoming a top gun fighter pilot: https://youtu.be/J1dUp1WgES8?feature=shared Whether you're looking for a caring tribute, educational insight, or uplifting storytelling, this episode honors mothers and mother figures with heart, humor, and depth — perfect for Mother's Day or any day you want to celebrate the women who make the world go round. Listen now and be inspired by the universal spirit of motherhood.…

Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with this captivating episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Nature Connection" Show, featuring naturalist and author Charles Hood, who discusses his new book “Nature at Night: Discover the Hidden World That Comes Alive After Dark” (Timber Press). From glowing oceans to jungle predators and migrating birds under the stars, Hood explores the wonders of nocturnal wildlife through vivid storytelling and over 240 stunning photographs. With humor and ecological insight, he invites readers and listeners to see the night in a whole new light. With a lifetime of travel to 80 countries and all 50 U.S. states, Charles has seen 6,000 bird species, survived a bubonic plague scare, and written 20 books. His passion for the natural world shines in this lively and insightful conversation. 🎧 This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection and Big Daily Blend channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 🌐 About Charles: https://hypersphere-orange-y8n3.squarespace.com/…

Celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week with this exciting episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show in partnership with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). Travel writer Mary Farah takes us on a journey through Southern Delaware, uncovering the region’s hidden gems and unexpected West Coast vibes. From a luxurious stay at Avenue Inn and Spa to a wine tasting at Nassau Valley Vineyards, Mary shares her experience exploring Delaware’s “Culinary Coast.” Highlights include dining at One Coastal, enjoying a classic “drive on” beach lunch with Chef Hari Cameron, sweet indulgence at Dessert in Delaware, and visiting top attractions like the Delaware Botanic Gardens, Story Hill Farm, Funland, and the iconic Jolly Trolley. 📖 Read the full travel feature: "A Summer Getaway to Southern Delaware" here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-summer-getaway-to-southern-delaware/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🎧 Subscribe for more episodes: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ This episode is also featured on our Big Blend Radio “Vacation Station,” “Eat, Drink & Be Merry,” and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Discover more travel, food, and lifestyle content on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

Celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week with this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s Quiltripping Travel with Rose podcast! Travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares her favorite experiences and travel tips for visiting London, England—from watching performances at the iconic Royal Albert Hall and enjoying afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason, to strolling the Thames River, exploring Kew Gardens, and taking day trips to Stonehenge. Get inspired to plan your next UK getaway! 📖 Read her article “Seven Reasons Why I Love Visiting London”: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/seven-reasons-why-i-love-visiting-london/ 🌐 Explore more at: https://quiltripping.com/ 🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/ 📲 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Big Daily Blend and Vacation Station channels. Check it out: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon," where award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes you on a journey through Galveston, Texas—a vibrant coastal city shaped by its rich history, powerful storms, ghostly legends, and Gulf Coast charm. From walking The Strand and sailing the historic Elissa, to honoring the roots of Juneteenth, visiting haunted hotels, and indulging in local seafood, Sharon shares insider tips and captivating stories from her return trip to this fascinating destination—one of the busiest cruise ports in the U.S. 📍 Plan your Galveston getaway: https://www.visitgalveston.com 📝 Read Sharon’s article on Galveston: https://shebuystravel.com/things-to-do-in-galveston/ 🎙️ Sharon has explored over 50 countries across six continents, and brings each destination to life through her compelling storytelling and photography. Discover more of her work at https://sharonkkurtz.com . 📅 New episodes of Wander the World with Sharon air the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s channels including Big Daily Blend, Way Back When, and Vacation Station: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with Flat Rock Playhouse on Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast. In this special episode, we spotlight the history and future of Flat Rock Playhouse, the State Theatre of North Carolina. Located just minutes frm Hendersonville and just 30 miles south of Asheville, the area is also home to the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, plus boutique shops, art galleries, breweries, and local eateries. Our featured guests Lisa Bryant and Christy Souther share the inspiring story and scenic setting of the Playhouse, its beloved summer camps and youth education programs, and an exciting lineup of 2025 shows, including: - Cats - Beautiful: The Carole King Musical - The Play That Goes Wrong - Murder on the Orient Express - Autumn at The Opry - Yellow Brick Joel: The Music of Billy Joel and Elton John - John Lloyd Young: Broadway’s Jersey Boy - A Flat Rock Playhouse Christmas Plan your visit and learn more at https://www.flatrockplayhouse.org/ As always, this episode features Steve & Karen Wilson, aka “Mr & Mrs Wild,” innkeepers of the Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a beautifully restored pink Victorian in Asheville’s Montford Historic District. Discover their spring and summer getaway specials at https://www.lion-rose.com/ 🎙️ Big Blend Radio’s Adventures in Asheville airs every first Tuesday on the Big Blend Radio Network. Follow the show on PodBean: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ 🎧 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s other podcast channels including "A Toast to The Arts" and "Big Daily Blend." Explore our full podcast network at: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

In honor of Mother’s Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday show with Shelley Whizin takes a deep dive into the complex and transformative world of mother-daughter relationships. Shelley discusses how generational trauma can be inherited just like traditions—and how it’s possible to consciously break those cycles to build a new legacy of love, respect, and emotional healing. She also shares insights from the chapter she co-wrote with her daughter, Sarah, titled “A Legacy of Love: Breaking the Chain of Abuse,” featured in the powerful new book, "I Love You, I Hate You: Healing Generational Bonds—Navigating the Mother-Daughter Relationship." More: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/healing-mother-daughter-relationships/ Shelley Whizin is the founder and CEO of the Soul Diving Institute™, a transformational coach, and author of “What Do You Bring to the Table? A Savory, Sensory and Inspirational Guide to Living a Yummy Delicious Life.” Learn more about her coaching programs, courses, and workshops at https://shelleywhizin.com/ 🎧 Listen to Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley. New episodes drop every first Sunday: https://soul-diving-sunday-shelley.podbean.com/ 📺 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life” and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Explore the full network of Big Blend Radio Podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

May the Fourth Be With You! In honor of Creative Beginnings Month—and with a nod to Star Wars Day—this inspiring Big Blend Radio panel discussion encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace creativity in all its forms. Our special guests share how they launched their careers and reflect on the power of creative expression in music, writing, travel, food, business, and art. From award-winning authors and travel writers to branding experts and singer-songwriters, this lively conversation is a celebration of fresh starts and imaginative journeys. 🎙️ Featured Guests: Johnny Schaefer – Award-winning singer-songwriter and cohost of Big Blend Radio’s "Big Daily Blend." https://hearjohnny.com/ Jo Clark – Travel writer, photographer, and host of Jo Goes Everywhere podcast. https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ + https://recipestravelculture.com/ Barbara Redding – Award-winning travel writer, photographer, and former journalist. https://barbararedding.com/ Jeffrey Spear – Graphic designer, branding expert, food writer, and author. https://spearwrites.contently.com/ + https://www.studiospear.com / Matt Cost – Prolific author of history and mystery novels, with a background in education. https://www.mattcost.net/ 🔗 Related Reads & Interviews Mentioned in the Episode: Jo Clark’s Sonoma Sidecar Adventure: https://recipestravelculture.com/exciting-time-in-sonoma/ Jeffrey Spear’s Book Interview on "My Life in Gluttony": https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/jeffrey-spear-my-life-in-gluttony/ Matt Cost’s Latest Novel Interview on "The Not So Merry Adventures of Max Creed": https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/matt-cost-the-not-so-merry-adventures-of-max-creed/ 🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts" and "Success Express" shows. Explore more Big Blend Radio Network podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…

On this tasty episode of Big Blend Radio, travel and food writer Linda Kissam—aka the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva”—shares her review of Coco Polo Bliss sugarless chocolate. She describes it as “a hidden gem in the candy aisle,” and dives into the brand’s rich, creamy texture and deliciously bold flavors. Crafted for chocolate lovers who want to avoid added sugars without giving up indulgence, Coco Polo Bliss is GMO-free, sustainably made, and perfect for anyone living a low-sugar or low-carb lifestyle. With its beautiful packaging and clean ingredients, it also makes a thoughtful gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, or any occasion worth celebrating with a healthier sweet treat. 👉 Read Linda’s full review: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-foodies-guide-to-sugarless-chocolates/ 🎧 Listen to Diva Linda on Big Blend Radio (first Saturdays): https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/…

Join this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show, featuring Tanya Ortega, acclaimed photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). In honor of Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Tanya shares inspiring stories and insights about NPAF’s exclusive month-long artist residency programs at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island and Haleakalā National Park on Maui. These fully supported residencies are open to artists of all disciplines — including painters, photographers, sculptors, filmmakers, composers, musicians, writers, and more — offering a unique opportunity to live and create while surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Hawaii’s national parks. 🔗 Learn more and apply: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 🎧 Listen & follow the show: https://arts-parks.podbean.com/ 📚 Coming soon: Big Blend Radio’s NPAF Retrospective Digital Publication, celebrating 8+ years of creative collaborations in national parks. This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio Network’s "Toast to The Arts," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" Shows. 📲 Subscribe: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork…