Eat, Drink and Be Merry

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...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wine Time with Peggy,” we’re celebrating the end of summer with two of Peggy's most popular and delicious shrimp recipes! These dishes are not only quick and easy to make, but they also pair beautifully with a wide variety of wines.

Featured in this Episode:
- Jicama Shrimp Tacos: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbh/#p=17 
- Southwestern Pesto Shrimp: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/southwestern-pesto-shrimp/ 

About the Host:
Peggy Fiandaca is the co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery. Learn more about her and the winery's...

From craft cocktails and local wines to creative distilling and resilient food culture, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Adventures in Asheville” Podcast uncorks the rich and evolving culinary and beverage scene of Asheville, North Carolina.

Co-hosted by Steve & Karen Wilson—aka “Mr & Mrs Wild” and innkeepers of the charming Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in the Montford Historic District—this lively conversation features:
🍷 Ryan Watts, Co-owner of Asheville Wine Tours – www.ashevillewinetours.com 
🥃 Joe Ragazzo, Interim CEO of Two Trees Distilling – www.twotreesdistilling.com 

Together, the panel explores:
- Asheville’s thriving status as Beer Ci...

Celebrate the World of Oysters with this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Show. From indulgent recipes and regional oyster experiences to sustainability, oyster farming, and tradition, this lively conversation explores oysters from sea to table.

Featured guests and their resources include:
🍽️ Jeffrey Spear – Food writer and author of My Life in Gluttony. He shares his indulgent Oyster Pot Pie recipe.
* Website: https://spearwrites.com/ 
* Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/jeffs-oyster-pot-pie/ 

🌊 Kathleen Walls – Food, wine, and travel writer, author, and publisher of American Roads. She shares her oyster travel and di...

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Global Adventures with Debbie Stone,” travel writer Debbie Stone takes listeners to Abruzzo, Italy, where she dined on a historic trabocco—a traditional wooden fishing structure turned extraordinary seafood restaurant.

Debbie shares the history of these fascinating coastal platforms, originally designed for fishing, and now repurposed for unique dining experiences like the one she had at Trabocco Punta Cavalluccio. From fresh seafood and regional pasta to local wines and seaside views, this episode blends history, cuisine, and atmosphere into an unforgettable Italian travel story.

📌 Key Takeaways:
• Abruzzo is a...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Global Adventures with Debbie Stone,” travel writer Debbie Stone shares her delicious hands-on experience in an Italian cooking class in Rome. From crafting fresh pasta with 00 flour to layering the perfect tiramisu, Debbie dives into the culinary traditions of Italy and the joy of learning by doing.

The conversation highlights the cultural value of food, the unique flavor and texture of homemade pasta, and the connection that comes from cooking and sharing a meal with fellow travelers. Whether you're a novice or seasoned home cook, Debbie’s insights will inspire...

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Global Adventures with Debbie Stone,” travel writer Debbie Stone shares her mouthwatering culinary experience on The Tour Guy’s Ultimate Drinks and Tapas Tour in Madrid, Spain.

From savory tortillas to sizzling mushrooms and refreshing Tinto de Verano, Debbie explores the essence of Spanish cuisine through local food traditions, lively tapas bars, and cultural storytelling. Tune in as she chats about the origins of the tapa, the difference between Spanish and Mexican tortillas, and why food is one of the most flavorful ways to connect with a destination’s culture an...

In celebration of National Fortune Cookie Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio explores the vibrant culture, cuisine, and heritage of Chinatowns around the world. From Singapore to San Francisco to Boston, discover how these neighborhoods serve as gateways to rich cultural traditions and unforgettable culinary experiences.

Featured guests include:
🍜 Jeffrey Spear – Branding expert, food/travel writer, and author of My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure, which shares his personal and flavorful journey through the world of food. Learn more at: https://spearwrites.com 

🌏 Clifford Garstang – Award-winning author, world traveler, and writer of the new nov...

Join us for a delightful "Happy Hour Hang Out" on Big Blend Radio as we celebrate National Picnic Month and Parks & Recreation Month! This engaging episode explores the pure joy of picnicking, the profound benefits of connecting with nature, and our favorite spots and foods for an outdoor feast from Arizona to England. 

We dive into the calming practice of forest bathing, the therapeutic power of nature's sounds, and the breathtaking beauty of Arizona's diverse landscapes, from vibrant wildflower seasons to dramatic monsoon experiences. Discover how nature can positively impact mental health and the simple pleasure of s...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Scott Kendall shares highlights from his journey through Reims, the heart of France’s Champagne region. From visiting historic champagne houses and attending educational tastings to savoring an unforgettable meal at the Michelin-starred Arbane Restaurant, Scott talks about the region’s rich history, its unique winemaking traditions, and the value of cultural connections while traveling.

Scott Kendall is a Texas-based travel writer, photographer, and videographer. He’s the editor of PlayStayEat.com and has been pub...

From backyard BBQs to sunny picnics, this fun and flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wine Time with Peggy” podcast celebrates all things summer wine and food. Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery, shares delicious seasonal wine and food pairing ideas, vineyard updates, and tips for entertaining during the warmer months.

Tune in for:
- Summer wine pairings & food ideas
- Cooking with wine: marinating, braising & more
- Tips for sipping in the heat
- Creative drink ideas for summer parties
- The importance of buying local wine & produce

🍷...

In this fun and informative episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie” Podcast, Dr. Jacqueline Eubany—board-certified cardiologist and author of “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story”—shares what she eats during a typical workday, on weekends, while traveling, and when dining out.

The conversation covers practical tips for meal planning, managing a busy schedule, consulting with nutritionists, understanding cholesterol, and the importance of exercise. Dr. Jackie also talks about finding joy in food, even while staying heart-healthy, and how indulging in moderation can support long-term wellness.

📘 Learn more about her book: h...

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, co-hosts Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass Travel Blog, take us on an immersive journey through Edinburgh, Scotland—highlighting the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the magic of a traditional Scotch whisky tasting.

From the legendary Crown Jewels to swords, armor, and tales of military conquest, discover the castle’s pivotal role in Scottish history. Joelle and Ryan share personal stories from their travels, explore how the past is preserved through architecture and artifacts, and offer practical tips for visiting this historic landmark.

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this fun and flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Show" with host Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” Special guest Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce joins the show to talk about seasonal produce, healthy snacks, and gourmet goodies perfect for a memorable summer picnic.

In this lively conversation, Linda and Robert share their dream picnic companions and destinations, essential food ideas, and healthy snack options. They explore creative recipes, dessert ideas to sweeten your spread, and fun picnic themes to take your gathering to the next...

In celebration of National Candy Month, this sweet episode of Big Blend Radio's "Peanut Patch" Podcast with Donna George dives into the nostalgic charm of The Peanut Patch and explores how candy-making continues to evolve in creative and surprising ways. 

Learn how freeze-dried candy is not only a great option for outdoor adventures but also a lighter, softer treat for movie nights and folks with dental concerns. You'll also discover how Medjool dates—known as “Nature’s Candy”—make a naturally sweet, sugar-free alternative. The Peanut Patch even carries a variety of sugar-free candies, making sure there’s something f...

Celebrate National Moonshine Day with this spirited episode of Big Blend Radio as we dive into the Moonshiner, Bootlegger, and Temperance history of Kansas. Featured guests include Kenneth J. Peak, author of Kansas Bootleggers and Kansas Temperance, and Phyllis Bitner, Chair of the Miners Hall Museum Foundation.

This fascinating conversation explores the complex world of moonshining and bootlegging in Southeast Kansas, shedding light on the cultural, economic, and social factors that fueled the underground liquor trade. Learn about the impact of the temperance movement, the roles played by immigrants and women, and how community survival sometimes depended...

Take your taste buds on a delicious journey to South America on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wine Time with Peggy" podcast! Host Peggy Fiandaca is joined by special guest Tamara Andersen, the talented recipe developer, cocktail mixologist, photographer, and writer behind the blog "Beyond Mere Sustenance."

In this flavorful conversation, Tamara shares her passion for Peruvian cuisine and wine pairings, influenced by her extensive travels in Peru and life on the border. From rich sauces to bold flavors, learn how to bring Peruvian flair into your own kitchen.

👉 Try Tamara’s featured recipes:
...

Join us as we Wine It Up and toast to National Wine Day with this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio's Eat, Drink & Be Merry show! This celebration explores the unique characteristics of wines from Oregon, California, Arizona, and Hungary, along with delicious wine pairings and personal wine journeys. 

From vineyard updates to charcuterie boards and the rise of orange wine, this lively roundtable uncorks the diversity of global wine experiences and highlights why every day is worth celebrating with a good glass of wine.

🎙️ Featured Guests:
- Peggy Fiandaca – LDV Winery (Arizona) – https://ldvwinery...

Get ready to hit the open road! In this special episode of Big Blend Radio's Jefferson Highway Show, we're gearing up for National Road Trip Day (May 23) with guest Beth Hilburn, co-owner of the retro-charming Hi-Way Cafe and Western Motel in Vinita, Oklahoma. Nestled on both the historic Jefferson Highway and legendary Route 66, these roadside gems are must-stops for travelers seeking nostalgia, great food, and unique attractions.

From the towering 24-ft “Big Bill” Muffler Man and the iconic Mohawk Trail “Big Indian” statue, to their famous Guinness World Record-holding car, Beth shares the story behind these beloved landmark...

🍕 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 specia...

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast, travel writer and photographer Jo Clark shares her flavorful and fun-filled journey through Penn Yan, a charming town nestled in New York’s Finger Lakes region. Founded by Pennsylvania Yankees, Penn Yan is rich in history and known for its scenic lakes, historic mills, and lush dairy pastures.

Jo takes listeners on a culinary adventure along the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and Seneca Lake Wine Trail, with memorable stops at top wineries, breweries, and eateries. Highlights include tastings at Kemmeter Wines, Ravines Wine Cellars, and Herm...

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 i...

Mangia and salute! This delicious episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wine Time with Peggy” podcast is all about Italian food and wine. Host Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona, shares expert tips on pairing wine with Italian dishes, gives an update on the Arizona vineyard with her winemaker husband Curt Lawrence Dunham, and explores her Wine Term of the Month: “clones.”

👉 Plus, don’t miss Peggy’s Quick & Fresh Marinara Recipe – a must-try for any home cook who loves authentic Italian flavors: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/peggys-quick-and-fresh-marinara-recipe/ 
 
Learn more about LDV Winery at https://ldvwinery...

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 D...

From super salsas and savory dips to gourmet BBQ sauces, pickles, and relishes—grilling season is heating up "Southwestern Style"! In this flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio's "The Peanut Patch" Podcast with Donna George, we’re serving up spicy inspiration and culinary creativity straight from the heart of Yuma, Arizona.

The Peanut Patch is a beloved Southwest tradition, known for farm-fresh peanuts, nuts, dried fruit, gourmet goodies, locally grown Royal Medjool Dates, and irresistible treats like homemade fudge and peanut brittle. Shop year-round online at https://thepeanutpatch.com/ 

Looking for kitchen inspiration? Check out Donna...

Celebrate the vibrant flavors of the season on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY Show, featuring Robert Schueller of Melissa’s Specialty Produce. 

From ready-made crepes and specialty dessert sauces to juicy muscato grapes, sweet Ojai pixie tangerines, crisp jicama, savory shallots, flavorful Hatch chili pepper snacks and cooking products, and gourmet grilling kits, Robert shares delicious ideas for Cinco de Mayo fiestas, Mother's Day brunches, springtime gatherings, and Memorial Weekend barbecues.

Discover fresh seasonal produce, festive ingredients, and tasty snacks that are perfect for all your May celebrations! Find Melis...

On this delicious episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show, presented in collaboration with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we’re joined by Jeffrey Spear, author of the mouthwatering book “My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure.”

From indulging in street food like char-grilled mouse in Malawi to tracking down the best hot dogs in New York City, Jeffrey shares the unforgettable meals, flavors, and foodie moments that have defined his travels across the globe. With stops in Ghana, South Africa, Lebanon, Paris, Serbia, and beyond, Spear shows us that culinar...

In this flavorful shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Happy Hour" shows, 5-Star Chef and Culinary Instructor Chef Ivan Flowers serves up everything you need to know about crafting the perfect homemade pizza. From dough-making secrets and topping techniques to fun facts about regional pizza styles, this episode is a delicious deep dive into everyone’s favorite comfort food.

Chef Ivan also dishes on who he and his wife Tracy would invite to their ultimate pizza party—bringing personality, warmth, and plenty of foodie inspiration to the mic.

Whether you're gear...

In celebration of National Garden Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features gardening expert Bevin Cohen who discusses his new book, "HERBS IN EVERY SEASON: 48 Edible and Medicinal Herbs for the Kitchen, Garden, and Apothecary," that's out now through Timber Press. 

"Herbs in Every Season" offers gardeners, herbalists, cooks, and homesteaders a new way of looking at herbs throughout the year, and from every angle. The photographed guide features information on gardening, cooking, and integrating herbs as part of a holistic wellness routine. Herbalists will learn how an herb’s growth habits inform its medicinal capabilities, and...

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva," talks about Agritopia, a culinary haven in Gilbert, Arizona, that invites food lovers to experience farm-to-table dining like never before. 

With its community gardens, artisanal eateries, and vibrant farmer’s market, this unique planned urban farming development blends agriculture with gastronomy, creating a feast for the senses. Read Linda's article about the unique housing, attractions, and amenities in Agritopia: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-foodies-guide-to-agritopia-in-gilbert-arizona/ 

Travel writer Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every first Saturday. Follow her podcasts here:  https://www.youtu...

Get ready for Spring Celebrations like Easter weekend, Brunch Parties, and Mother's Day with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "The Peanut Patch" Podcast with Donna George. So many foodie ideas to make happen and treats to enjoy!

Open NOW from October-April and located in Yuma, Arizona, The Peanut Patch is a southwest tradition for farm fresh peanuts, nuts and dried fruit, locally grown Royal Medjool Dates, culinary gifts, and sweet treats including homemade fudge and peanut brittle. Shop online year-round and learn more at https://thepeanutpatch.com/  

Check out Donna's recipes that include all ki...

The wine industry is experiencing a lot of change. From climate change and water issues to demographic spending shifts, wineries must navigate these changes to stay relevant and successful. This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wine Time with Peggy" podcast focuses on Wine & Food Trends in Arizona, as well as the growing wine and culinary scene in Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale. 

ON THIS EPISODE:
- PEGGY FIANDACA, along with her winemaker husband Curt Lawrence Dunham, owns and operates LDV Winery. More: https://ldvwinery.com/ 
*** Plus, check out Peggy's Southwestern Pesto Shrimp Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/li...

Celebrate the Start of Spring with this Big Blend Radio ”Happy Hour” Show that focuses on wine, sips, and nibbles from around the world and across America. 

FEATURED GUESTS
* MERLE ROSENSTEIN is a freelance writer specializing in travel, drinks, and food. She holds Level 2 Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certification. Merle will focus on her global travels and Bangkok’s Cocktail Culture. Visit: https://superbubbie.ca/

* CHERYL OGLE is a world traveler, travel advisor, and owner of Hey Wanna Go Travel that specializes in travel to Europe and the UK, as well as river an...

Get Ready for Spring Brunch Season with this "From the Vault" episode of Big Blend Radio's COOKING WITH RUTH Podcast with Ruth Milstein, author of the Gourmand award-winning recipe book, “Cooking with Love: Ventures Into the New Israeli Cuisine.” 

On this episode, Ruth shares tips on planning and preparing a spring brunch, and talks about her Cheese Stuffed Mini Rolls recipe, that you can see here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/cheese-stuffed-mini-rolls/  

Learn more about Ruth Milstein here: https://www.ruthmilstein.com/ 

Listen to Big Blend Radio's 3rd Sunday "Cooking with Ruth" podcasts here: https...

Get a Taste of Healdsburg, in Sonoma County, California, on this episode of Big Blend Radio's JO GOES EVERYWHERE! Podcast with travel writer and photographer Jo Clark. 

Healdsburg nestles in a curve of the Russian River in a northern section of Sonoma County, and sits at the crossroads of three AVAs (American Viticultural Area)—the Alexander Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Russian River Valley. The downtown district is a collection of art galleries, shops, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms. Read Jo's article about Healdsburg, here: https://recipestravelculture.com/healdsburg-more-than-great-wine/ 

Check out Jo's other Sonoma County adve...

Get a Taste of Spring with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "The Peanut Patch" Podcast with Donna George. It's all about peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies, Medjool dates, celery sticks with peanut butter, flapjacks, and more.

Open NOW from October-April and located in Yuma, Arizona, The Peanut Patch is a southwest tradition for farm fresh peanuts, nuts and dried fruit, locally grown Royal Medjool Dates, culinary gifts, and sweet treats including homemade fudge and peanut brittle. Shop online year-round and learn more at https://thepeanutpatch.com/  

Check out Donna's recipes that include all ki...

Get ready for Spring Brunch Season with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wine Time with Peggy" podcast with Peggy Fiandaca who talks about pairing wines for brunch, gives a vineyard update, and shares five fun wine facts! Check out her Frittata Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/roasted-vegetable-green-chili-frittata/ 

Along with her winemaker husband Curt Lawrence Dunham, Peggy Fiandaca owns and operates LDV Winery in Arizona. Learn more at  https://ldvwinery.com/ 

"Wine Time with Peggy" airs every 1st Wednesday at 4pm Arizona time. Follow the podcast here: http://tinyurl.com/42j5zucj 

This epis...

As summer draws near and the call of nature beckons, campers are looking for ways to elevate their outdoor dining experience beyond the standard fare of hot dogs and s’mores.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva," talks with Robert Schueller about how Melissa’s World Variety Produce is changing the game with their innovative approach to upscale campsite cuisine. Melissa’s diverse selection of fresh produce and culinary inspiration is a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts seeking flavorful and nutritious meal ideas to fuel their escapades. 

Read Linda's article...

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast is all about her adventures in New York City including the Official Tour of Grand Central Terminal with Wallks Tours, the Ultimate Greenwich Village Food Tour with Devour Tours, and a visit to New York Bansky Museum.

READ DEBBIE'S "BIG APPLE" ARTICLES:
* Grand Central Station: https://tinyurl.com/2cree9tp 
* New York Banksy Museum: https://tinyurl.com/mrydz8db 
* Greenwich Village Food Tour: https://tinyurl.com/52dnc55d 
* Apollo Theater: http://tinyurl.com/bddjf4z5 
* Museum of Broadway: http://tiny...