Eat, Drink and Be Merry

Celebrate Chocolate Lovers Month with Donna George, store owner of The Peanut Patch in Yuma, Arizona! In this deliciously fun episode, we dive into Valentine’s Day treats, the surprising health benefits of nuts and peanuts, smart storage tips (yes, freezing works!), and what makes The Peanut Patch such a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Donna shares insights into The Peanut Patch’s nearly 200 flavors of fresh, homemade fudge, chocolate-dipped specialties, peanuts, nuts, candies, pickles, preserves, and other crave-worthy snacks. We also talk about seasonal tours of the chocolate-making process, Yuma’s rich agricultural roots, desert...

From Lunar New Year celebrations to Valentine’s Day dinners, this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wine Time with Peggy” Podcast explores the exciting harmony between Asian cuisine and wine. Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona, shares practical tips for pairing wine with Asian dishes by understanding umami, balancing acidity and spice, and matching wine texture with food.

The conversation dives into the diversity of Asian and Indian cuisines, intentional cooking, and how sauces, spices, and fresh ingredients influence wine choices. From pho and Thai flavors to mushrooms, dipping sauces, and a refreshing Chinese...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Garden Gossip" Podcast, we welcome gardening expert Charlie Nardozzi, author of the new book “The Continuous Vegetable Garden” publishing February 3, 2026  (Quarto). With National Seed Swap Day (January 31) around the corner, this timely conversation highlights how seed saving, self-sowing vegetables, and perennial edibles are key to creating a low-effort, high-yield garden that sustains itself season after season.

Charlie shares practical, repeatable techniques that reduce the need for constant replanting and indoor seed starting, while extending harvests well beyond summer — even into winter. We talk about soil health, lasagna gardening, growing mushrooms...

The World Ag Expo® is the largest annual agricultural show of its kind, and this episode of Big Blend Radio takes listeners inside its global reach and local impact. 

Featured guests Donnette Silva Carter, CEO of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce, and Megan Lausten, Marketing Director of the International Agri-Center®, share insights into why Tulare County stands at the heart of agriculture—feeding communities across the nation and around the world.

Held February 10–12, 2026, at the International Agri-Center® in Tulare, California, World Ag Expo® provides a powerful platform for networking, education, and business development in one of the mo...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we welcome back Dave DeGolyer of Explore Steuben to explore the rich wine culture, fascinating history, and small-town charm of Steuben County in New York’s Finger Lakes region.

The conversation traces the evolution of winemaking in the Finger Lakes — from early table grape production in Hammondsport dating back to 1829 to today’s award-winning wineries that are earning national and international attention. Dave emphasizes the philosophy of “sip and savor,” encouraging travelers to slow down, engage with winemak...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food Wine & Travel" Show with International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, travel writer and photographer Cori Solomon joins the show to explore the rich agricultural roots, evolving wine scene, and vibrant community of Morgan Hill, California. From its early farming history—including the once-thriving mushroom industry—to today’s sustainable wineries and farm-to-table dining culture, Morgan Hill reveals itself as a destination deeply connected to the land.

Cori shares insights from her travels and reporting, highlighting how local winemakers, chefs, and growers work together to shape the region’s identity...

In this thought-provoking episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wine Time with Peggy" podcast, the conversation explores how wine is about more than what’s in the glass — it’s about savoring moments, building connections, and enjoying time with friends. Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery, discusses wine trends, wellness, and the evolving ways people experience wine today.

The episode dives into the influence of Blue Zones and longevity lifestyles, the growing popularity of white wines and rosés, and how moderation and wellness trends are shaping wine consumption. Peggy also shares insights into the art of wine...

Ring in the New Year with Donna George, owner of The Peanut Patch, in this upbeat episode of Big Blend Radio’s "The Peanut Patch" Podcast. As snowbirds arrive in Yuma, Arizona for sunshine and warm winter days, Donna shares why this desert destination is such a magical place to visit during the cooler months.

The conversation explores Yuma’s rich cultural heritage, thriving agricultural community, and farm-to-table focus, along with favorite attractions like scenic hiking trails, the historic Yuma Territorial Prison, and the joy of road tripping through the region. Donna also highlights the warm, nostalgic shop...

From street food to fine wine, this lively group conversation explores the rich, diverse, and often misunderstood world of African cuisine through the eyes (and appetites) of seasoned travelers, writers, and food experts. Our guests share personal travel stories, cultural insights, and memorable meals from across the African continent — from communal barbecue traditions and local produce to food safety tips, traditional breakfasts, and iconic flavors like Amarula and South African wines.

The discussion highlights how history, colonial influence, geography, and local ingredients shape regional foodways, while emphasizing why the term “African food” barely scratches the surface. With storie...

Raise a glass and join the fun on Big Blend Radio’s Annual Holiday Happy Hour Party 2025, a festive roundtable celebration filled with cocktails, travel tales, holiday foods, music, and meaningful conversations about gift-giving and community.

In this spirited holiday episode, an all-star lineup of Big Blend Radio guest experts share their favorite holiday traditions, memorable travels, and seasonal culinary delights. The conversation also explores sustainable celebrations, thoughtful gift-giving (including the art of re-gifting), and why experiences and connections often matter more than material gifts.

The episode wraps up with a joyful and creative collaboration as...

Chef Ivan Flowers—5-Star Chef and Culinary Instructor—returns to Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Show to share a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer: Holiday Ham Spirals. Perfect for entertaining, this recipe highlights how simple techniques and creative flavor combinations can elevate holiday cooking.

In this episode, Chef Ivan breaks down the versatility of roulades, the role of pickling in enhancing flavor and texture, and how using unexpected ingredients can make a dish memorable. The conversation also explores cultural influences in cooking, budget-friendly meal planning, sustainable kitchen practices, and the joy of cooking together during the holidays.<...

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we’re joined by Andrea Lemieux, author of "The Essential Guide to Turkish Wine – Edition 2: An Exploration of One of the Oldest and Most Unexpected Wine Countries."

Andrea shares her journey from Michigan to Turkey and how she became immersed in one of the world’s most ancient wine cultures. The conversation explores Turkey’s 8,000+ years of winemaking history, its astonishing 1,400+ native grape varietals, and the modern renaissance shaping today’s Turkish wine industry.

From evolv...

In this festive episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” Podcast, travel writer Jo Clark celebrates the magic of the holiday season through Christmas traditions, winter travel, and comforting seasonal flavors. The conversation explores the fascinating history of nutcrackers, including a visit to A’ Tuscan Estate B&B in McMinnville, Oregon, where the innkeeper Erin has a nutcracker collection.

The episode also highlights winter escapes in Myrtle Beach and Charleston, the sparkle of New York City in winter, and beloved holiday recipes like oyster stew, chocolate bark, and festive cocktails. Plus, hear about the 2026 launch of Big B...

This episode of Big Blend's "Eat Drink & Be Merry" show offers a fresh conversation with Robert Schueller of Melissa's World Variety Produce, who discusses their most spectacular gift baskets and gourmet boxes, from the unique, low-acidity Pink Glow Pineapple Rosé Basket to the healthy, convenient Baby Veggie Basket. 

We explore the massive variety Melissa's offers (over 1,500 products!) and why their commitment to quality makes their offerings the perfect, thoughtful gift for any occasion, personal or corporate. Plus, get the inside scoop on how a gift basket can bring a taste of the tropics to the middle of wi...

Celebrate the holiday season with wine, food, and festive cheer in this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wine Time with Peggy" podcast with Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery. Hear about the joyful traditions surrounding Beaujolais—especially Beaujolais Nouveau, the iconic wine of the season known for its fresh, celebratory spirit.

The conversation also dives into holiday entertaining, the importance of supporting small businesses, and why wine clubs make meaningful gifts. Peggy shares tips for making the perfect Mushroom Risotto. Along the way, learn about vineyard seasonality, terroir-driven wines like LDV Winery's Rhyolite series...

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...

In this festive episode of The Peanut Patch Podcast, host Donna George celebrates the store’s 48th anniversary and National Peanut Butter Lovers Month! She shares nostalgic stories of peanut butter favorites, highlights Yuma’s locally grown Medjool dates, and explores how these “Nature’s Candy” gems add a special touch to charcuterie boards and holiday gatherings.

Donna also talks about peanut butter fudge, creative ways to enjoy peanut butter during Thanksgiving, and how to get a head start on holiday shopping with custom gift baskets. Whether you’re local or visiting Yuma this winter, you’ll love the sweet...

Fall is here, and it’s the perfect season for comfort food and cozy sips! In this heartwarming episode of Big Blend Radio’s Wine Time with Peggy podcast, Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery, explores the art of pairing wine with soups. From creamy bisques and hearty stews to the classic soup-and-grilled-cheese combo, learn how to layer flavors, balance textures, and select wines that elevate every spoonful.

The conversation also uncovers the meaning behind the wine term “reticent,” offers Thanksgiving wine pairing tips for both traditional and vegan menus (in celebration of World Vegan Month), an...

Join Steve and Karen Wilson for another Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" episode, this time visiting Souther Williams Vineyard in Fletcher, North Carolina, with owner Kenneth Parker. This conversation explores the beauty of the vineyard during the fall and winter seasons, from stunning fall colors on the Blue Ridge Parkway to cozy winter experiences by the fire. Kenneth shares the rich history of the bicentennial farm, unique European-style varietals, and the hands-on winery tours that make Souther Williams a must-visit destination.

Learn about vineyard hikes, wine tastings, and food pairings, plus seasonal events like the Wassailing...

Celebrate the holiday season with this delicious and insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with host Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” She’s joined by Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce to discuss the top holiday produce trends for 2025 — from quince and chestnuts to pickling, luxury fruits, and festive gift basket ideas.

In this engaging conversation, Linda and Robert explore unique holiday ingredients and how to prepare them, the rise of home pickling and fermentation, and creative ways to use seasonal fruits and vegetables in both dishes and décor. They also...

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures" with travel writer Debbie Stone focuses on her enchanting experience exploring Yountville, the heart of Napa Valley.

From the breathtaking views of hot air ballooning over the vineyards to the vibrant art scene, world-class dining, and rich local history, Debbie paints a vivid portrait of this charming California village. The conversation also highlights Hotel Yountville’s luxurious accommodations, Julia Child’s lasting culinary influence, and the region’s incredible wine culture, offering travelers inspiration for their next Napa Valley getaway.

📖 Read Debbie’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/m...

Recorded on-location, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show celebrates National Sausage Month with Maitland “Spuddy” John Faucheux, owner of Spuddy’s Cajun Cooking Experience — where visitors can taste, learn, and live true Louisiana flavor!

Located about 50 miles outside of New Orleans, Vacherie lies in Louisiana’s historic German Coast, once a major farming hub that fed the Crescent City. The town’s name, derived from the French word for “cowshed,” reflects its agricultural roots as the region’s center for beef production. Today, Vacherie welcomes thousands of visitors each year who come to tour the nearby Oak A...

In celebration of National Food Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Garden Gossip" Show features Rick Bickling, Master Gardener and spokesperson for the Square Foot Gardening Foundation. Rick shares how the innovative Square Foot Gardening method—developed by Mel Bartholomew—revolutionized small-space gardening with its raised beds, unique soil blend known as Mel’s Mix, and efficient planting system that makes gardening accessible to everyone.

Rick also introduces "The Square Foot Gardening Planner: A 3-Year Journal for Recording the Planning, Planting, and Care of Your Square Foot Garden" (Cool Springs Press, October 21, 2025). This official planner helps ga...

In celebration of National Food Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Garden Gossip features Matthew McInnis, Co-Founder and Creative Director of North Spore, a company dedicated to empowering people to grow mushrooms at home and explore the fascinating world of fungi.

Matt shares insights into the ease and accessibility of mushroom gardening, from using North Spore’s beginner-friendly grow kits to experimenting with species like Lion’s Mane, known for its rich flavor and wellness benefits. The conversation explores how mushrooms can be grown indoors and outdoors, their vital role as decomposers that enrich soil health...

In celebration of World Egg Day and National Cookbook Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Show features food writer, world traveler, and award-winning author Jeffrey Spear, who celebrates the humble egg — a true everyday ingredient that shines in dishes far beyond breakfast.

From deviled eggs to Scotch eggs, soufflés to custards, Jeffrey explores the incredible versatility of eggs in global cuisines. The conversation dives into their nutritional value, creative uses in cooking and baking, and their surprising role in international dishes and beverages. Along the way, he shares stories and insights...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, travel writer Terri Guthrie takes listeners to Greenwood, Mississippi, a historic Delta town where Southern charm meets culinary adventure. Known for its rich music history, cinematic fame as a filming location for “The Help,” and unexpected touches of luxury and hospitality, Greenwood offers visitors a soulful experience that’s both relaxing and inspiring.

Explore the walkable downtown, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and the irresistible aroma of Southern cooking. Stroll down Grand Boulevard, a mile-long stretch framed by stately historic homes, and discover the local landmarks co...

In celebration of Dessert Month, Cookbook Month, and Emotional Wellness Month, this delightful and insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show features transformational life coach Shelley Whizin in a sweet conversation about the connection between food, emotional wellness, and personal growth.

Shelley explores how cooking—and especially chocolate—can serve as a beautiful metaphor for life. From embracing mistakes to savoring small indulgences, she reminds us that nourishment goes far beyond the table. Through reflection on creativity, relationships, and self-awareness, Shelley encourages us to approach life (and cooking) with love, joy, and an open h...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “The Peanut Patch” Podcast, Donna George shares the sweet excitement of October as The Peanut Patch in Yuma, Arizona, re-opens for a new season. Beloved for its nostalgic country store atmosphere, farm-fresh peanuts, and decadent treats, The Peanut Patch is the go-to stop for both locals and travelers.

The conversation explores baking favorites like peanut butter cookies (perfect for National Cookie Month!), the soft crunch of freeze-dried candy, and the decadent flavors of fudge. Listeners will also hear about the fun of building fall-inspired charcuterie boards, the versatility of Medjoo...

Celebrate the flavors of fall in this delicious episode of Big Blend Radio’s Wine Time with Peggy podcast! Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery, takes listeners on a flavorful journey through the magic of wine and spice pairings, the excitement of harvest season, and the joy of cooking with fresh herbs.

From cumin and saffron to black pepper and allspice, discover how spices can elevate both your kitchen creations and your wine tasting experiences. Plus, in honor of National Cookie Month, Peggy shares a special recipe for Wine-Infused Cookies—the perfect treat for pairing with y...

In celebration of Bourbon Heritage Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Road Trip Radio Show takes you on a dog-friendly journey along Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail.

Featured guests Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” podcast, share their experiences traveling with their dog to iconic distilleries including Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, Wild Turkey, and Preservation Distillery. Along the way, they highlight the pet-friendly Bourbon Barrel Cottages, the rich heritage of Buffalo Trace, and the growing international appeal of bourbon...

Discover everything Cayuga County has to offer, from seasonal outdoor activities and unique culinary experiences like the Sweet Treats Trail, to art and music festivals, wineries, and community events. We dive into the area’s stunning landscapes shaped by its unique geography and agricultural roots, especially in wine, apple, and agricultural production. Whether you're interested in lakeside adventures, historic sites, or charming B&Bs, this episode has something for every traveler.

Our conversation also highlights the Erie Canal bicentennial, the enduring legacy of Harriet Tubman and women’s history, and how Cayuga County continues to inspire travelers with...

In celebration of Oktoberfest season and National Family Meals Month,  this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Podcast takes you on a unique culinary journey to Central Market grocery stores in Texas.

This conversation explores the unique experience of this renowned grocery store, highlighting its deep-rooted German heritage and the popular Passport to Germany event. Host/travel writer Terri Guthrie shares her insights on how food connects us to our history and culture, making it a vital part of the travel experience. We discuss the evolution of food culture in Texas, which has a rich t...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “The Peanut Patch” Podcast, we're celebrating a new season! Donna George, owner of The Peanut Patch in Yuma, Arizona, shares all the delicious details as the country store gets ready to open its doors for the season on October 1st.

Whether you’re visiting in person or exploring their brand-new website, you'll get a taste of everything in store, including their famous homemade peanut brittle and sweet freeze-dried candy. We also dive into the health benefits of their locally grown Medjool dates, how to use Donna’s signature salsas for Chicke...

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wine Time with Peggy" celebrates the start of the fall harvest with delicious recipes and wine pairings. We revisit three of Peggy's fantastic dishes—Ricotta and Roasted Grape Crostini, Apple and Blueberry Crisp, and Spiced Apple Chutney Wontons—while highlighting LDV Winery's special offers and celebration of International Grenache Day (Sept. 20).

Featured Recipes in this Episode:
- Ricotta and Roasted Grape Crostini: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/ricotta-roasted-grape-crostini/ 
- Apple & Blueberry Crisp: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/peggys-apple-and-blueberry-crisp-recipe/ 
- Spiced Apple Chutney Wontons: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/spiced-apple-chutney-wontons/ 

Episode...

Celebrate National Sandwich Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Burger Bliss Series, where we explore burger culture from its origins to unique flavors and favorite local spots. From peanut butter “Elvis Burgers” and nostalgic drive-in cheeseburgers to gourmet creations and jalapeño bacon stacks, our guests share their tasty stories and culinary connections.

Featured Guests
- Glynn Burrows – Norfolk Tours, England | https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/ 
- Victoria Chick – Artist, World of Art Podcast | https://victoriachick.com/ 
- Lisa Evans – Travel writer & author | https://writerlisa.com/ 
- Beth Hilburn – Hi-Way Café, Vinita OK | https...

Celebrate National Sandwich Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Burger Bliss Series, we head into the kitchen (and fire up the grill!) to explore the art of cooking burgers — from creative vegetarian options to turkey, venison, and the classic all-American patty. Along the way, we dig into the joy of cooking, the importance of simplicity, cultural twists on burgers around the world, and even the future of food sustainability.

👉 Listen to Burger Bliss – Part One: https://eat-drink-merry.podbean.com/e/hamburger-happy-hour/ 

Featured Guests & Recipes:
* Angela Laws – Community Manager of TrustedHousesitters.com, on the quest...

Join us on Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast with Glynn Burrows, owner of Norfolk Tours UK, as we celebrate Eat Dessert First Month and National Sponge Cake Day with a lively and nostalgic conversation with about British desserts. 

From timeless classics like sponge cake, scones, trifle, puddings, carrot cake, and meringues, to the exciting wave of new desserts such as Eton Mess and other creative cakes, discover how England’s sweet traditions continue to evolve. Along the way, we highlight how historic favorites reflect culinary history while modern treats showcase changing tastes, and explore the cultural sig...

This episode of Big Blend Radio was recorded onsite with Pat Kelly, co-owner of the legendary Kelly’s Westport Inn in Kansas City, Missouri. A must-visit destination for both locals and travelers, Kelly’s is not only a cornerstone of Kansas City’s nightlife and culture, but also a historic treasure for those traveling the Jefferson Highway.

Founded on a legacy of hospitality, Kelly’s Westport Inn has been welcoming generations of guests with its warm, inclusive atmosphere. Pat shares stories of his father’s vision, the bar’s evolution over the years, and its deep connection to the local...

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Hamburger Happy Hour Party” kicks off our 3-part “Burger Bliss” Series, celebrating National Sandwich Month and the lead-up to Labor Day Weekend grilling! This fun and flavorful group chat brings together food writers, world travelers, and burger lovers to swap stories, recipes, and favorite burger destinations from across America and around the globe.

From traditional backyard bites to creative gourmet stacks, we explore how hamburgers connect us through nostalgia, culture, and the simple joy of sharing a meal. We also take a tasty trip around the world to sample unique internatio...

Celebrate American Adventures Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with IFWTWA, as we explore the vibrant food, wine, and beer scene of Medford, Oregon with Carole Skeeters-Stevens of Travel Medford.  

This Southern Oregon region is home to the Rogue Valley American Viticultural Area, recently named the #2 Best Wine Region in the United States by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

From over 70 wine varietals to craft breweries, fertile farmlands, and seasonal events, Medford offers a delicious mix of flavors and experiences. It’s also the hometown of two culinary...