Quality of Life Radio

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" Show, we welcome back Chef Ivan Flowers and his wife, Tracy Phillips, for a lively "Getting to Know You" conversation that blends personal stories with practical advice on eating well without overspending.

From rising grocery prices and smart shopping strategies to healthy meal planning and making the most of affordable ingredients, Chef Ivan and Tracy share simple ways to create flavorful, nutritious meals on a budget. Along the way, they talk about Chef Ivan's work teaching high school culinary students, Tracy's love of cooking and...

Recovery continues across Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana, following the historic flooding caused by Tropical Storm Arthur. 

In this shared special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast, Executive Director Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism joins Father Martin Laird of Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church in Plaucheville and Immaculate Conception Church in DuPont to share firsthand stories of resilience, faith, volunteerism, and the incredible spirit of the community.

The conversation highlights how neighbors, churches, first responders, businesses, and volunteers united to help families recover after record-breaking rainfall. The episode also explores how travelers can s...

Celebrate Marilyn Monroe's 100th anniversary year with this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio's "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward, featuring award-winning author Mima Tipper discussing her acclaimed young adult novel, "Channeling Marilyn" (She Writes Press).

Rather than retelling Marilyn Monroe's life, "Channeling Marilyn" imagines what might happen if Marilyn's spirit became a mentor to a shy modern-day teenager struggling with confidence, body image, identity, and finding her own voice. Through this unique coming-of-age story, Mima explores timeless themes of fame, self-acceptance, grief, resilience, friendship, and the courage to become your authentic self.

In this...

Welcome to this shared inaugural episode of Big Blend Radio's "Table & Compass" Podcast with hosts Lisa D. Smith, Joelle Machia, and Ryan Slough.

Pull up a chair for global conversations that shape a better world as we explore how travel, community, culture, and collaboration connect to the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In this debut episode, the hosts are joined by Carlisle Richardson, an international relations expert whose career has included serving as Ambassador of St. Kitts and Nevis to the United Nations and as a United Nations Economic Affairs Officer. Carlisle played a...

What makes a picnic so much more than a meal outdoors? In this shared and uplifting episode of Big Blend Radio's "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, Shelley Whizin, the "Live & Die Happy Coach," explores how picnics, family reunions, and simple gatherings in nature can strengthen relationships, celebrate loved ones, and create lasting memories.

Shelley shares how food is a beautiful metaphor for life and connection, why play and laughter are essential ingredients for healthy relationships, and how celebrating our elders and family legacy enriches every generation. The conversation also highlights the healing power of nature, the joy of...

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast takes a reflective look at faith, resilience, and community in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana.

The show begins with a special message from Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism, regarding the historic flooding currently impacting communities throughout Avoyelles Parish and the remarkable resilience of local residents, volunteers, first responders, and organizations working together to help those affected.

Recorded onsite in Bunkie, Louisiana, hosts Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith visit David Haas Memorial United Methodist Church and talk with William Tebow about...

In celebration of Foster a Pet Month, this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" podcast is part of our "Getting to Know You" series spotlighting the people behind our shows and celebrating the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com.

This shared episode features co-host Angela Laws, Head of Charitable Partnerships and External Engagement at TrustedHousesitters, who shares her inspiring journey through pet sitting, purposeful travel, animal welfare, and community building.

A lifelong animal lover, Angela discusses how pet sitting became a lifestyle that has allowed her to experience cultures around the world while caring for...

What happens when you travel — not for sightseeing, but for the soul? In this shared and heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio's "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, Live & Die Happy Coach Shelley Whizin shares her extraordinary pilgrimage to South Africa, where she spent time on the sacred land of the White Lion Global Protection Trust alongside lionhearted leadership author Linda Tucker and spiritual activist Andrew Harvey.

Shelley traveled in real physical pain — dealing with a bulging disc and sciatica — yet refused to stay home. What unfolded was a profound journey of healing, stillness, grief, and transformation. From a shatte...

What does it mean to truly care — for yourself, your community, and the world?

On this special World Caring Day and Pride Month edition of Big Blend Radio, host Lisa Smith and award-winning singer-songwriter and co-host Johnny Schaefer welcome two extraordinary guests for a conversation about love, empathy, music, and the courage to be human.

🎬 Geoffrey Levin — founder of the rock band PEOPLE! and director of the new documentary Brothers Broken — shares his journey from the San Francisco folk scene (alongside Jerry Garcia, Jefferson Airplane & Janis Joplin) to 46 years in Scientology, and his long road back to l...

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz explores the growing trend of solo travel and the unique charm of boutique hotels in Palm Springs.

Joining Sharon are Robert Hunt of Alcazar Palm Springs, and Kimberli Munkres of Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. Together, they discuss why Palm Springs has become a favorite destination for solo travelers, wellness seekers, and anyone looking to relax and recharge in a welcoming desert setting.

The conversation covers the area's boutique hotel culture, renowned dining...

Celebrate National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month with this special "Success Express" episode of Big Blend Radio featuring longtime Big Blend friend Robert Schueller, Director of Public Relations and Produce Expert for Melissa's Produce.

Known nationally as "The Produce Dude," Robert has spent nearly three decades helping consumers discover fresh fruits and vegetables, understand seasonal produce, and explore healthier ways to eat. In this fun and inspiring conversation, Robert answers Big Blend's signature Success Insider questions, sharing stories about his career journey, family, favorite hobbies, life lessons, travel dreams, and the passion that has fueled his success.<...

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Quality of Life" Podcast features author Megan Margherio discussing her powerful memoir, "Everwoven: A Memoir, A Reckoning."

More than a traditional memoir, "Everwoven" is a deeply personal reckoning with trauma, survival, healing, and self-discovery. Through raw conversations with her former selves, Megan explores the lasting impacts of childhood sexual abuse, emotional neglect, intimate partner violence, grief, and self-abandonment, while illuminating the courageous journey from merely surviving to truly living.

In this candid conversation, Megan discusses trauma, resilience, self-worth, the importance of being...

In this special "Getting to Know You" episode of Big Blend Radio, we celebrate National Creativity Day and reconnect with longtime Big Blend friend, travel writer, author, and storyteller Elaine Masters as part of the launch of our new online community, Big Blend Media House, and its Front Porch News newsletter.

A longtime Big Blend contributor and friend, Elaine is known for her thoughtful travel writing, cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and love of water adventures. Hear about her experiences diving with manta rays, exploring destinations around the world, contributing to a National Geographic travel book, and working...

This Memorial Day weekend episode of Big Blend Radio features author Margaret Whitford who discusses her powerful new memoir, "The History We Carry, A Daughter's Memoir," releasing June 2, 2026 through She Writes Press.

In this moving conversation, Margaret reflects on the emotional legacy of war, family estrangement, inherited trauma, and the healing power of storytelling. As families across America honor loved ones on Memorial Day, this episode explores how the devastation of World War II continues to ripple through generations, shaping identity, relationships, and emotional well-being.

Margaret shares how her mother’s experiences—including war, violence, and...

In this special “Getting to Know You” episode of Big Blend Radio, we chat with author, environmental attorney, geologist, and eco-conscious living expert Cheryl Leutjen about sustainability, creativity, community building, and finding joy in challenging times.

Known as “The Eco-Worrier,” Cheryl shares how humor, playfulness, and intentional gatherings can help people reconnect with nature and each other. From creating pollinator gardens and fairy gardens to hosting eco-chic parties with purpose, this inspiring conversation explores practical ways to live more consciously while still embracing fun, beauty, and celebration.

The discussion also highlights Cheryl’s upcoming book, "Party on P...

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features acclaimed YA author Rocky Callen discussing her powerful and deeply personal novel, "A Breath Too Late." Inspired by her own struggles with depression and suicide ideation, Rocky shares how storytelling, art, friendship, and community can help foster healing, hope, and connection.

Re-released through Sunderhaus Press and timed to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day (Sept. 8, 2026), "A Breath Too Late" follows seventeen-year-old Ellie as she navigates an emotional out-of-body journey after her death by suicide, piecing together memories, relationships, trauma, and the moments that...

What happens when determination, talent, and resilience collide against all odds? In this inspiring Big Blend Radio episode, we explore the powerful documentary "96 Pounds of Dynamite" with director Loren Goldfarb, following the extraordinary journey of Chad “Shorty” McDaniel, a competitive pool player living with brittle bone disease (Osteogenesis Imperfecta).

The film captures Chad’s path from small-town Mississippi pool halls to high-level amateur competition, while also sharing the personal struggles, discrimination, and life-changing decisions he faces along the way. Through humor, grit, and authenticity, Chad challenges assumptions about disability and reminds us of the importance of dignity, focus...

In this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Henry Biernacki—world traveler, airline captain, author, and humanitarian who explored over 179 countries and territories, and believed deeply that “travel is the best education you can get.”

Joining us is his mother, Sindy Biernacki, who shares heartfelt stories about Henry’s adventures, his passion for cultural connection, and his commitment to making a difference—especially through supporting girls’ education in Africa.

In his memory, Sindy founded The Steppes of Henry Foundation, continuing his mission to empower young women through education, o...

On this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Quality of Life" Show, we’re joined by counselor, journalist, and debut memoirist Laurie Collister to discuss her powerful new book, "A Different Kind of Vow: Rewriting My Happily Ever After."

Through humor, honesty, and deep reflection, Laurie shares how surviving a house fire that spared her lifelong journals led her to reexamine her path—and ultimately redefine success, purpose, and identity. From choosing not to follow traditional expectations of marriage and motherhood to embracing spiritual exploration and self-discovery, her journey offers a fresh perspective on what it means...

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin "Live & Die Happy Coach" explores the profound connection between endings, beginnings, and living a life rooted in peace and authenticity. Through a heartfelt conversation, Shelley shares insights on death, rebirth, and how embracing life’s natural cycles can lead to deeper meaning and personal growth.

Reflecting on themes of spring renewal, the discussion highlights how our beliefs shape our experiences, the importance of gratitude and presence, and how we can create a more sacred and intentional life. Shelley encourages listeners to...

Step inside a hillside sanctuary where wine country meets holistic renewal. Kicking off National Stress Awareness Month, this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, features award-winning travel writer Sharon K. Kurtz who takes us to Montevalle Resort & Spa, an adults-only retreat tucked into the rolling hills of Mexico’s premier wine region.

Discover a destination defined by private stone villas, lavender fields, and a comprehensive wellness program that includes everything from wine therapy massages to hyperbaric oxygen sessions. 

We explore the "Napa of Mexico" through the lens of restorative tra...

Celebrate National Nutrition Month with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Heart Healthy Living" Podcast, where Dr. Jacqueline Eubany shares expert insights on the powerful connection between nutrition, heart health, and weight management. From debunking myths about quick-fix weight loss solutions to offering realistic, budget-friendly meal ideas, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for everyday living.

Dr. Jackie discusses how diet impacts chronic diseases, the importance of circulation and preventing blood clots, and how simple lifestyle habits—like balanced meals and regular movement—can significantly improve cardiovascular wellness. She also shares easy breakfast, lunch, and dinn...

In this shared Big Blend Radio "Pet Connection" episode for Pet Poison Prevention Month, we sit down with co-host Angela Laws from TrustedHouseSitters.com, to uncover the hidden hazards lurking in our homes and gardens. 

From common kitchen staples like chocolate to beautiful but deadly lilies, Angela shares expert insights on how to pet-proof your environment. Whether you are a long-time pet owner or a dedicated pet sitter, this conversation provides the practical tools and awareness needed to prevent emergencies and keep our furry friends thriving.

Read more from the Trustedhousesitters.com Blog: https://www.t...

Is modern democracy truly serving the people—or has it become controlled by powerful party systems?

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Wednesday “Books & Authors” Show with Books Forward, we talk with author and entrepreneur Metin Pekin about his thought-provoking new book, "Breaking Democracy’s Chains: Freeing and Fortifying Democracy Against Hidden Capture."

Drawing from political theory, history, and real-world experience, Pekin explores how political parties have evolved from representative institutions into powerful gatekeepers that can centralize authority, deepen polarization, and limit genuine democratic participation. He discusses the historical roots of party politics...

In this heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio, we talk with filmmaker, musician, and theater director Búi Dam about his powerful new documentary Birita, premiering at the renowned documentary festival CPH:DOX.

The deeply personal film follows Búi’s mother, celebrated Faroese actress Birita Mohr, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease. In an extraordinary act of love and artistic exploration, Búi attempts to bring her back to the stage to perform King Lear, exploring whether creativity, music, and performance can reconnect memory, identity, and joy.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Far...

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show features travel photographer Houston Vandergriff and his mother Katie Vandergriff, who recently served as artists-in-residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park through the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF).

Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, Houston is a passionate travel photographer who has visited all 50 U.S. states, over 30 countries, and countless destinations around the world. Houston also happens to have Down syndrome, and through his photography he shares a powerful message of inclusion, compassion, and possibility.

In this inspiring conversation, Houston and Kat...

In this inspiring conversation, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin shares practical tools and heartfelt insights on how to spring clean your relationships and create deeper, more meaningful connections. From the power of presence and gratitude to taking personal responsibility in communication, Shelley offers simple yet powerful ways to nurture love in everyday life.

The discussion explores how daily love vows can strengthen bonds, why emotional awareness matters, and how small intentional shifts can transform relationship dynamics. Shelley also introduces her new e-book, Daily Love Vows, designed to help couples and individuals cultivate lasting love through mindful daily...

"My heart was very loud... it would gurgle and swirl. People could hear me before I entered a room."

In this inspiring episode, psychotherapist, educator, and author Sally Dukes joins us to discuss her powerful memoir, "drummer girl," and the life-changing journey that shaped it. 

Born with a congenital heart disorder (CHD), Sally faced a near-death experience at a young age—a moment in the "Orange Machine" that forever transformed her understanding of life, death, and the "Purple Love" of the afterlife.

In this heartfelt and intimate audio feature, Sally explores:
- The...

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” podcast explores the power of travel, photography, and compassion for animals, featuring co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters and special guest Cade Martin — commercial photographer and world traveler.

Cade shares how a family trip to Thailand unexpectedly led to his heartwarming mini-documentary “Wheelchair Mafia,” spotlighting a sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates disabled dogs. The conversation dives into the emotional impact of animal rescue, the cultural insights gained through travel, and how storytelling through photography can inspire kindness and global awareness.

Listeners will also hear about the vi...

In this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show, travel writer and equestrian Linda Ballou explores the powerful symbolism of the Year of the Fire Horse in Chinese astrology.

From themes of fierce independence and bold adventure to the profound bond between humans and horses, Linda shares personal insights, spiritual reflections, and heartfelt storytelling that encourage listeners to embrace change and live authentically. The conversation also highlights the healing power of nature, the importance of writing from the heart, and how the Fire Horse energy can spark transformation in our lives.

...

In celebration of Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month, board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany highlights the importance of heart health—especially for women. This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Heart Healthy Living" focuses on prevention, early detection, and the need for greater awareness around women and heart disease.

Dr. Jackie discusses how women often experience unrecognized heart attacks, the seriousness of congenital heart defects, and how conditions like diabetes significantly increase cardiovascular risk. The conversation also explores stress management techniques, the benefits of regular physical activity, and why the Mediterranean diet continues to be a heart-healthy stan...

"Weddings are a moment, but relationships are living beings."

In this special episode of Big Blend Radio's 'Soul Diving Sunday' Podcast with Shelley Whizin "Live & Die Happy Coach," we celebrate the launch of her new e-book, "Daily Love Vows: 365 Invitations to Choose Love."

Shelley discusses the 'Third Entity'—the living bond between two people—and why love isn't a one-time promise, but a daily practice. Learn how to move past the 'loudness' of life to return to presence, intimacy, and joy through simple, powerful daily rituals.

SPECIAL GIFT: In honor of National Wedding Mont...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Garden Gossip" Podcast, we chat with Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, about 2026 Backyarding Trends and how outdoor spaces are evolving into purpose-driven, high-performance landscapes.

The TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of backyards, parks, schoolyards, and other green spaces, predicts 2026 will be the year of intentional design, year-round use, and pet-friendly landscapes. The era of the purely aesthetic lawn is over—today’s yards are strategic investments that support wellness, biodiversity, community connection, and everyday living.

Kris discusses the rise of the 36...

In observance of Women’s Healthy Weight Day (Jan. 15, 2026), board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany explores the powerful connection between women’s heart health, weight management, and overall wellness.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's HEART HEALTHY LIVING focuses on how lifestyle choices—such as nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and community support—play a critical role in maintaining a healthy weight and protecting cardiovascular health at every stage of life.

Dr. Jackie discusses why obesity is a major global health issue linked to heart disease, why extreme dieting can be harmful, and how mindful eating and move...

"A moving testament to the Mississippi Delta, Glendora reveals how the bonds of family and home transform structural scarcity into profound community resilience." Nancy J. Reid, Big Blend Radio

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, filmmaker, cinematographer, and writer Isabelle Armand discusses her feature documentary GLENDORA, an intimate, five-year collaboration with a small African-American community in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. 

Created with—and by—the people who live there, GLENDORA captures daily life through personal testimonies and shared rituals such as birthdays, graduations, weddings, funerals, and community gatherings. Isabelle shares how sound, atmos...

In this insightful Big Blend Radio "Soul Diving Sunday" conversation, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin —also known as the Live & Die Happy Coach — explores the deeper “why” behind personal growth, happiness, and authentic living. Shelley shares how transformational life coaching focuses on tiny, intentional shifts that create meaningful, lasting change, and how self-discovery often begins long before we realize it.

The discussion touches on midlife awakenings, the heart-and-soul connection, mentorship, and the importance of taking responsibility for one’s happiness. Shelley explains how joy can be cultivated through everyday moments, conscious choices, and nurturing relationships—both with ourselves an...

Happy New Year 2026! In this special episode of Big Blend Radio, we are officially celebrating 19 years of podcasting! To kick off the year with focus and inspiration, we are exploring the "Theme Word" concept. Instead of resolutions, a Theme Word acts as your North Star—guiding your mindset and decisions all year long.

Join us as nine of our regular Big Blend experts share the words they’ve chosen to lead them through 2026, covering everything from resilience and hope to community and gratitude.

FEATURED GUESTS & WEBSITES:
* Steve Piacente – Author, Photographer, Life Coach, and Communication Specia...

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward features Alex Woodard—singer-songwriter, author, and storyteller—who discusses his powerful new novel, "Ordinary Soil" (Greenleaf, Aug. 12, 2025).

According to the National Rural Health Association, farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than those in any other profession, a sobering reality that underscores the hidden cost of modern agriculture. "Ordinary Soil" steps directly into this cultural reckoning, blending science, ancestral trauma, environmental urgency, and hope into a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story.

When a young farmer—burdened by a mysterious family legacy a...

In this heartwarming episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, Shelley Whizin, Live & Die Happy Coach, explores the power of presence, listening, and nourishment during the holiday season. 

Shelley discusses how truly being present in conversations, offering genuine empathy, and sharing the nourishment of food—both physically and emotionally—can illuminate the lives of those around us. She reflects on finding joy even in dark times and emphasizes how small moments of connection can bring light, unity, and understanding into our relationships.

📘 Read Shelley’s article: https://bigblendlifestyle.substack.com/p/the-gift-of-presence 

📚 Get h...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Garden Gossip, gardener and author Sandra Mao us to talk about her vibrant new book, “Vibrant Harvest: Cultivating a Kaleidoscope of Colors in Your Vegetable Garden.” From purple tomatoes and magenta potatoes to speckled lettuces and edible flowers, Sandra shares how colorful vegetables can transform your garden, your kitchen, and even your kids’ eating habits.

We explore the beauty and benefits of growing heirloom and hybrid varieties, seasonal planting strategies, and simple ways to get children excited about gardening. Sandra also offers practical advice on seed starting, soil prep, pest con...