Big Blend Radio

Big Blend Radio Network

Viva Variety! Hosted by Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, the mother-daughter travel team and publishers of Big Blend Magazines, Big Blend Radio educates, entertains and inspires! Topics include: Music, Books & The Arts; Travel & Recreation; Food & Drink; National Parks & Public Lands; History & Culture; Nature & Environment; Home & Garden; Family & Education; Business & Career; and much more!

  1. 16H AGO

    Wild West & National Park Adventures in Cody Yellowstone, Wyoming

    Celebrate the spirit of the American West with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Sip, Savor & Travel” podcast featuring travel writer Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” and special guest Katrina Southern, Marketing Manager for Cody Yellowstone. Discover the breathtaking region of Cody Yellowstone—home to the towns of Cody, Powell, and Meeteetse, along with vast landscapes that include the Shoshone National Forest and the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park. From iconic Western heritage and world-class museums to outdoor adventures, wildlife watching, and authentic cowboy culture, this destination offers an unforgettable travel experience. In this engaging conversation, learn about Cody’s deep roots in Western history, its connection to Buffalo Bill Cody, and why it’s known as the “Rodeo Capital of the World,” hosting nightly rodeos all summer long. The discussion also highlights scenic routes like the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, cultural landmarks such as the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center, and immersive experiences ranging from hiking and rafting to art galleries and local cuisine. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or outdoor adventure, Cody Yellowstone delivers a true taste of the Wild West. 👉 Plan your trip: https://www.codyyellowstone.org/  👉 Read Linda’s article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/discover-cody-yellowstone  👉 Follow the “Sip, Savor & Travel” podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/  👉 Explore the "Sip, Savor & Travel" digital podcast magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/bssg/  👉 Follow Linda’s adventures: https://foodwinetravelchix.com/

    36 min
  2. 1D AGO

    Cracked Nut Creatives: Multimedia Art & Music at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

    This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show features members of Cracked Nut Creatives, current National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artists-in-residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Blending classical music, multimedia storytelling, and environmental awareness, the artists explore the powerful relationship between music, nature, and place. Through their residency experience, they share how volcanic landscapes, natural soundscapes, and cultural heritage influence artistic interpretation and creative expression. The conversation highlights how engaging with nature can deepen artistic perspective, expand sensory awareness, and foster empathy—an essential element in all art forms. From composing and performing music inspired by the environment to creating immersive multimedia projects, these artists demonstrate how national parks serve as living studios for innovation and storytelling. This episode also underscores the importance of preserving both natural and cultural heritage, and how artist residencies play a vital role in connecting audiences to the landscapes that inspire creative work. FEATURED ARTISTS  CRACKED NUT CREATIVES * Carlin Ma (Pianist & Multimedia Artist) Website: https://carlinmamedia.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlinma_  * Joshua Nakazawa (Cellist / Composer) Website: https://manamusichawaii.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manamusichawaii/  * Sam Paris & Carlin Ma (Cracked Nut Creatives) Website: https://www.crackednutcreatives.com/  🎬 Glacial Ice Cave Music Video: https://youtu.be/RAWwbaERf04? si=qq_O3iKRSNDlQotP NPAF, PODCAST & MAGAZINE * National Parks Arts Foundation: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/  * “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Podcast: https://parks-arts.podbean.com/  * "Artists in Parks" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qryf/

    50 min
  3. 1D AGO

    Getting to Know Donna George: Food, Travel & Life at The Peanut Patch

    Get to know the heart behind The Peanut Patch in this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s “The Peanut Patch” Podcast featuring Donna George, owner of the beloved family-run store in Yuma, Arizona. Through seven fun and insightful questions, Donna shares her personal journey in running a small business, her passion for food and community, and her adventures traveling to all 50 states. From her loyal “chicken” spirit animal to her dream of flying in a hot air balloon, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the personality and inspiration behind The Peanut Patch. Along the way, discover helpful tips on roasting peanuts, making fresh homemade peanut butter, and incorporating peanuts and locally grown Medjool dates into everyday recipes. Donna also talks about taking a leap of faith in business, the importance of supporting small businesses, and how food brings people together. Plus, learn more about the exciting new Big Blend Media House—a virtual, interactive space celebrating food, travel, lifestyle, and community. Visit: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/  Whether you’re a foodie, traveler, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with inspiration, humor, and heart. 🛒 Shop year-round: https://thepeanutpatch.com/  🍽️ Recipes From The Peanut Patch Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Recipes-from-The-Peanut-Patch/  🎧 Listen & follow the podcast (new episodes every 1st Friday): https://peanut-patch.podbean.com/

    31 min
  4. 5D AGO

    Houston’s Marriott Marquis: Luxury, Location & the Iconic Texas Lazy River

    Recorded on location in downtown Houston, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" features host Terri Guthrie in conversation with Thomas Inasu, Hotel Manager of the Marriott Marquis Houston. Opened in 2016 in the heart of Avenida Houston, this award-winning property redefines the urban hotel experience with resort-style amenities, expansive meeting space, and a prime location connected to the George R. Brown Convention Center. Thomas shares what makes the Marriott Marquis Houston truly unique — including its famous Texas-shaped lazy river, rooftop infinity pool overlooking the downtown skyline, and elevated amenity deck that offers guests a relaxing escape above the city. The conversation also explores the hotel’s AAA Four Diamond status, LEED-certified sustainability efforts, and its wide range of dining experiences, including specialty restaurants led by acclaimed chefs. From business travelers to leisure guests, the Marriott Marquis delivers a seamless blend of comfort, innovation, and hospitality. Whether you're planning a convention visit, a weekend getaway, or a staycation in Houston, this episode highlights why the Marriott Marquis stands out as a true destination within the city. Visit: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/houmq-marriott-marquis-houston/overview 🔗 Follow Terri’s Adventures: - https://www.instagram.com/travelwithterri/  - https://travelwithterri.net/  - Listen to the Podcast: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/

    29 min

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About

Viva Variety! Hosted by Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, the mother-daughter travel team and publishers of Big Blend Magazines, Big Blend Radio educates, entertains and inspires! Topics include: Music, Books & The Arts; Travel & Recreation; Food & Drink; National Parks & Public Lands; History & Culture; Nature & Environment; Home & Garden; Family & Education; Business & Career; and much more!