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 control, harvesting techniques, preserving food, and creative recipe ideas using homegrown produce.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned gardener, this inspiring conversation reminds us that vegetable gardens don’t have to be all green—they can be joyful, flavorful, and bursting with color. 

📌 Resources & Links:
🔹 Follow Sandra: https://www.instagram.com/sandra.urbangarden/
🔹 Get "Vibrant Harvest": https://www.quarto.com/books/9780760395110/vibrant-harvest
🔹 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Quality of Life" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Vibrant Harvest: Growing a Kaleidoscope of Color in Your Garden

In this festive episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" Show, Terri Guthrie explores Branson, Missouri, celebrating winter holidays, family fun, and classic Americana adventures. She’s joined by two special guests: Olivia Reinke from Explore Branson, and Sophia Meltke from The Ozarker Lodge.

Together, they dive into what makes Branson a magical, family-friendly destination during the holiday season — from sparkling light displays and nostalgic traditions to outdoor adventures, heartwarming entertainment, and the cozy charm of The Ozarker Lodge, perfect for unplugging and reconnecting.

The conversation also touches on Branson’s multi-generational appeal, signature attractions, festive events, local cuisine, and the rich sense of Americana that defines this iconic Ozarks town. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or looking for year-round family travel inspiration, this episode captures the spirit of Branson at its most festive.

LINKS & RESOURCES
- Explore Branson: https://www.explorebranson.com/
- The Ozarker Lodge: https://www.theozarkerlodge.com/
- Travel with Terri: https://travelwithterri.net/
- This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Road Trip Radio," “Vacation Station," and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Branson, Missouri: Winter Holidays, Family Fun & Americana Adventures

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" show, cohosts Steve and Karen Wilson, innkeepers of The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast in Montford Historic District, share a fun and festive roundup of winter experiences you won’t want to miss. From Asheville’s growing reputation as a music destination—including a recent music video by Stone Whiskey filmed at the inn—to the city’s seasonal magic, this episode highlights the best ways to embrace winter in the Western North Carolina section of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Discover snow tubing and ice skating spots, the enchanting Winter Lights and Trolls at The North Carolina Arboretum, the famous Grove Park Inn Gingerbread Competition, and Asheville’s wellness side with salt caves and foot sanctuaries. The conversation also celebrates the city’s breweries, dog-friendly culture, and the importance of supporting local businesses with gift certificates during the holiday season. Plus, learn why The Lion and the Rose B&B is ideal for winter getaways, reunions, and group stays.

* Learn more about The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast – https://www.lion-rose.com/
* This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station" and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Ten Fun Winter Adventures in Asheville, North Carolina

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon,” award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us on a captivating train journey through beautiful Bavaria.  Exploring at her own pace, Sharon visits historic cities, spa towns, wine regions, and cultural landmarks — all while reflecting on how travel deepens our understanding of history and broadens our connection to the world.

From Nuremberg’s profound World War II history to the wellness traditions of Bad Kissingen, the opulence of Bayreuth, the wine heritage of Würzburg, and the beer culture of Bamberg, Sharon reveals the many layers that make Bavaria such a rich and rewarding destination. Her journey also explores the medieval magic of Rothenburg, the region’s architectural treasures, and the importance of remembrance at historical sites. Whether traveling solo or with others, Sharon shows how exploring Bavaria by train offers unmatched flexibility, insight, and inspiration.

📝 Read Sharon’s “All Aboard Bavaria!” article in the all-new Big Blend Wander the World Digital Podcast Magazine:
https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1

🌍 Learn more about Sharon K. Kurtz and her global adventures:
https://sharonkkurtz.com

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station,  and Way Back When channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

📅 Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST:
https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com

Wandering Through Bavaria

Filmmaker Nick Davis joins Big Blend Radio to discuss his powerful new documentary, This Ordinary Thing, releasing December 5, 2025 (Cinema Village, NYC) with a theatrical roll out and VOD Release to follow on March 31, 2026.

Blending performance, personal testimony, and historical narrative, This Ordinary Thing explores the profound acts of humanity that occurred during the Holocaust—ordinary people who risked everything to save the lives of strangers. Through the stories of rescuers and survivors, the film reveals the duality of human nature during one of history’s darkest moments, highlighting the courage, compassion, and moral clarity that emerged in the face of unimaginable brutality.

Nick Davis shares insights into his creative process, the emotional weight of telling these stories, and the remarkable cast of actors who bring these moments to life. The conversation reflects on trust, moral choices, and the critical importance of remembrance—making this episode especially timely for today’s world and a meaningful tie-in for the documentary’s release.

Visit: https://www.thisordinarything.com/ 

This Ordinary Thing Film:  Humanity, Courage & the Holocaust

From snowy forest trails to festive community traditions, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California’s Sequoia Country” podcast highlights the magic of winter in Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, and the Giant Sequoia National Monument. Discover seasonal outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, wildlife experiences, and the warm, welcoming events that make this region a must-visit during the colder months.

Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:
- Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm
- Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/
- Alida Verduzco Silva – Tulare County Resource Management Agency: https://discovertularecounty.com/

✨ This conversation explores winter hiking, birding events, cozy culinary favorites, indoor museums, and the beloved Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree, now celebrating its 100th year. You’ll learn why Tulare County is an incredible place to enjoy both outdoor adventures and community celebrations throughout the season.  Plan your visit here: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/

📡 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel, Vacation Station, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Winter Experiences in California's Sequoia Country

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show features Artis Olds, acclaimed dancer, choreographer, arts educator, and the November 2025 National Parks Arts Foundation Artist-in-Residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Artis—whose dynamic career includes touring globally with Step Afrika! and the iconic Broadway and international productions of STOMP—shares the deep cultural roots of stepping and gumboot dance, exploring how these rhythmic traditions serve as powerful forms of communication, storytelling, and celebration.

He reflects on his personal journey from corporate America into professional dance, highlighting the transformative power of movement in building confidence, resilience, and community among youth. The conversation dives into the importance of arts education, the healing and connective energy of performance, and the value of creating space for creativity without pressure. Through thoughtful insights and lived experience, Artis illuminates how dance reflects history, honors culture, and strengthens our shared humanity.

Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation at https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org

 This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel" and "A Toast to The Arts" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Dancer and Choreographer Artis Olds in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show, host Linda Kissam — the Food, Wine & Shopping Diva — sits down with Josh Dunn, President and Founder of Premier Media Group, to explore the revival of print travel media and the launch of the new magazine, "Southwest Travel & Life."

Josh shares insights into why print travel magazines are making a comeback, the importance of authentic storytelling, and the challenges and rewards of publishing in today’s media landscape. The conversation dives into experiential travel, culinary tourism, agritourism, and the art of building trust with readers through quality content and talented writers.

Covering destinations across Arizona, Southern California, Southern Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, West Texas, and Utah, Southwest Travel & Life aims to inspire travelers through immersive stories, stunning photography, and meaningful experiences. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how passion, leadership, and creativity are shaping the future of travel media.

🔗 Read Linda's article about the Launch of "Southwest Travel + Life" Magazine: https://open.substack.com/pub/successexpress/p/the-launch-of-southwest-travel-and

🔗 Learn more about Josh Dunn and Premier Media Group:
https://www.premiermedia.net

🔗 Explore more episodes featuring Linda Kissam: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/

🔗 Follow Diva Linda’s blog and adventures:
https://allingoodtaste.info/

🔗 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Success Express" and "Vacation Station" Podcast Channel. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Inside the Launch of Southwest Travel & Life

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, and how food and wine create lasting holiday memories.

📘 NEW! Wine & Bites Digital Podcast & Recipe Magazine
This episode also celebrates the launch of WINE & BITES — Big Blend Radio’s "Wine Time with Peggy" Podcast & Recipe Magazine. This monthly digital publication includes the latest podcast episodes, recipes, wine & food pairing tips, and more — including the Mushroom Risotto recipe featured in this show.
👉 Read the new issue here: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/fmlb/

🍇 Learn more about LDV Winery: https://ldvwinery.com
🎧 Follow Wine Time with Peggy: https://wine-time-peggy.podbean.com/

This episode is also featured on other Big Blend Radio Network channels including "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Big Daily Blend." Discover more at:
https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Wine Friendly Holiday Season

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, hosts and travel writers Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough take us on a journey through Maryland’s Eastern Shore, exploring charming waterfront towns, historic inns, wildlife refuges, and vibrant local culture along the Chesapeake Bay.

Their travels begin on Kent Island and the Kent Narrows, before moving through Kent County with stops in Chestertown and Rock Hall, where fresh seafood, waterfront views, and the Eastern Neck Island Wildlife Refuge highlight the region’s strong connection to nature and conservation. Continuing through Wicomico County, they explore Salisbury’s parks, zoo, historic homes, breweries, and centuries-old landmarks like Pemberton Hall.

The journey wraps up with memorable experiences on Tilghman Island, Oxford, Easton, and St. Michaels, featuring ferry rides, maritime history, art museums, Civil War stories, coastal cuisine, ghost tours, and a deep sense of community that defines the Eastern Shore. Along the way, they reflect on slow travel, sustainability, and the importance of supporting local businesses and traditions.

🌐 Follow Ryan & Joelle's adventures: https://www.wandererscompass.com/

🎧 New episodes air every second Monday on Big Blend Radio. Listen to more episodes: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/

🎧 This episode is also featured on the Vacation Station and Parks & Travel podcast channels on the Big Blend Radio Network:
https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Exploring Maryland’s Eastern Shore

Select Big Blend Radio interviews that are featured in the digital, interactive Big Blend Radio & TV Magazine and Parks & Travel Magazine. Hosted by Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, mother-daughter travel team and publishers.

New tracks tagged #BigBlendRadio