Episodes

Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Happy National Family Month! This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), fatures travel writer Sarah Gilliland who shares tips for planning meaningful and fun-filled family vacations—especially to theme parks, on cruises, and through multi-generational travel.
From budgeting and bonding to immersive attractions and educational takeaways, Sarah highlights how travel builds lasting memories and helps kids connect with new cultures. The conversation also touches on Alabama’s family-friendly offerings and the evolution of theme parks into rich, interactive experiences.
🎧 Listen and find all related links and resources (and a fun jigsaw puzzle): https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/family-adventures-theme-parks-cruises-multigenerational-travel/
Sarah Gilliland is a freelance travel journalist and family travel expert. She’s a member of IFWTWA, a Travel Media Showcase journalist, and the voice behind Sarah in the Suburbs.🌍 Keep up with Sarah’s adventures at: https://ontheroadwithsarah.com
🍷 Discover IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday:https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Dail Blend Channels.

Friday Jun 13, 2025
Friday Jun 13, 2025
In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Susan Lanier-Graham returns to share her recent experiences in historic Vicksburg, Mississippi. From the powerful stories behind the Civil War to the vibrant arts and culinary scenes, Susan highlights what makes this Southern city such a meaningful and engaging destination.
The conversation dives into the impact of the Civil War on Vicksburg, the importance of the Vicksburg National Military Park, and the city’s rich blend of history, culture, and modern charm.
📖 Read Susan’s article:“Vicksburg National Military Park & Beyond”👉 https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/vicksburg-national-military-park-and-beyond
Susan Lanier-Graham is an experienced journalist, editor, storyteller, and author with a passion for purposeful travel and meaningful connection. Along with being the managing editor of an Arizona lifestyle publication, and an editor and contributor to Newsweek, Susan is the publisher and founder of Wander With Wonder: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org
🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com
🎧 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Parks & Travel," and "Way Back When" Channels. Check out our network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Quiltripping Travel with Rose" podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares her experiences cruising aboard the Emerald Princess through the Baltic region. From the charm of Scandinavian cities to authentic cultural encounters and culinary delights, this engaging conversation is packed with travel insights and inspiration.
🌍 Highlights Include:* The vibrancy and livability of Baltic and Scandinavian cities* The importance of green spaces and outdoor life in Nordic countries* The convenience of cruising from Southampton to multiple destinations* Tips for independent exploration to connect deeper with local cultures* How photography enhances the travel experience* Jet lag challenges and adapting to multiple time zones* Dining on a cruise: from international fare to local specialties* Embracing global cuisine and cultural exchange* The value of authentic travel experiences* Traveling as a digital nomad and the freedom it brings
📖 Read Rose’s Article: Discovering Northern Europe With My Baltic Cruise Excursions - https://quiltripping.com/baltic-cruise-excursions/
🎙️ More from Rose: Tips for First-Time Princess Cruisers - https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/tips-for-first-time-princess-cruisers/
🌐 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/
🎧 Subscribe on Podbean: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/
📲 Also Featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station Channel:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Thursday Jun 12, 2025
Put Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona on your road trip map! In this episode of Big Blend Radio, Peggy Fiandaca of LDV Winery shares what makes Arizona—especially Scottsdale—a top destination for wine lovers, art enthusiasts, and culinary adventurers. From strolling through vibrant art galleries and enjoying local dining to sipping award-winning wines on the Scottsdale Wine Trail, this conversation is your guide to creating the ultimate road trip itinerary.
Peggy also highlights accommodations like the charming Bespoke Inn and the stylish-yet-affordable Canopy by Hilton, and suggests smooth jazz as the perfect soundtrack for your travels.
🎶 Listen to Big Blend Radio’s Road Trip Music Playlist on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1oIL1b4HdtGIKQNTqRPexm?si=a98a326fdf324494
🍷 Learn more about LDV Winery:https://ldvwinery.com/
🎙️ Tune into more episodes:Wine Time with Peggy – https://wine-time-peggy.podbean.com/ Road Trip Radio – https://road-trip-radio.podbean.com/
📚 Plan your Scottsdale adventure with these articles:* Scottsdale Has Fun & Sun Any Time of Year: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/xfcs/#p=36 * Best of The West Tour in Scottsdale: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/best-of-the-west-tour-in-scottsdale/ * Scottsdale's Museum of The West: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/western-spirit-scottsdales-museum-of-the-west/ * Explore the World of Music at MIM: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/explore-the-world-of-music-at-mim/ * Historic Wrigley Mansion: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/tour-historic-wrigley-mansion-then-dine-in-style/ * The Wine Collective: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/arizona-finds-the-wine-collective/

Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Get ready to hit the road and discover one of Arizona’s most charming hidden gems! On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Tuesday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we explore beautiful and historic Bisbee, Arizona with special guests Heather Andrews and Janet MacDonald of Discover Bisbee.
Nestled in Southeast Arizona, Bisbee is a vibrant destination packed with history, culture, and character. From guided tours through its historic district to specialty local shops, art galleries and murals, natural attractions, and unique and historic lodgings—Bisbee offers something for every kind of traveler.
🧭 Did you know?- Bisbee is home to America’s first baseball field, Warren Ballpark.- It boasts Arizona’s smallest and longest continuously operating bar.- At 5,538 feet, it’s higher in elevation than Denver, making it the southernmost mile-high-plus city in the U.S.!
Plan your ultimate Bisbee adventure: https://www.discoverbisbee.com/
🔗 Subscribe & Explore More:👉 Subscribe on Podbean: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 👉 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Road Trip Radio” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Celebrate National Rivers Month with this enchanting episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Podcast. Terri takes us on a romantic journey to Niagara Falls, Canada—one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Known as the Honeymoon Capital, Niagara Falls offers more than just breathtaking views. Terri shares her personal experiences and insider tips on how to fully enjoy this magical destination—from thrilling boat rides and behind-the-falls tours to stunning aerial perspectives.
You'll also hear about delicious local dining, charming wineries, and cozy accommodations that fit every travel style. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a scenic escape, discover why Niagara Falls is a year-round destination packed with beauty, adventure, and charm.
Takeaways:• Niagara Falls is a top romantic getaway• Multiple ways to experience the falls: boat, tunnels, and sky• Enjoy local farm-to-table dining and regional wineries• Accommodations for all budgets• Fireworks and floral displays enhance the scene• Stunning in all seasons—from summer rainbows to winter wonderlands• Ideal for couples and nature lovers alike
📅 NEW! “Travel with Terri” is now a WEEKLY podcast—tune in every Tuesday at 9 AM CT!
🎧 Subscribe & follow: Travel with Terri: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Daily Blend channels. Explore the full network: Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Monday Jun 09, 2025
Monday Jun 09, 2025
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.
They also dive into the soul of Edinburgh, a city where ancient battlegrounds meet modern charm, and where whisky is more than a drink—it’s a cultural experience. Whether you're a history buff, whisky lover, or wanderlust-filled traveler, this episode brings the spirit of Scotland to life.
📝 Read their article: https://www.wandererscompass.com/edinburgh-castle-the-crown-of-edinburgh/
🌍 Follow Wanderers Compass: https://www.wandererscompass.com/
📅 New episodes every second Monday on Big Blend Radio: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/
🎧 Also featured on “Vacation Station,” “Big Daily Blend,” “Eat, Drink & Be Merry,” and “Way Back When” podcast channels on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Sunday Jun 08, 2025
Sunday Jun 08, 2025
In celebration of World Oceans Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Jo Goes Everywhere!" travel podcast with writer and photographer Jo Clark explores the coastal wonders of Georgetown County, South Carolina, home to Winyah Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and two incredible natural and historic treasures: Hobcaw Barony and the Yawkey Wildlife Center.
Located in the greater Myrtle Beach area, these lands reflect a unique convergence of history, nature, and conservation. Learn about the legacy of Belle Baruch, the story of Francis Marion “The Swamp Fox,” and how local agriculture like Carolina Gold Rice shaped the region. Dive into discussions about the importance of estuaries and wetlands, endangered bird recovery, and the efforts to preserve biodiversity along the coast.
This episode honors the critical role that coastal ecosystems and conservation initiatives play in protecting our oceans and planet.
📖 Read Jo's article about the region:https://recipestravelculture.com/hobcaw-barony-and-yawkey-wildlife-center/
🎧 Learn more about Belle Baruch:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/belle-baruch-american-pilot-equestrian-and-spy/
🗓️ “Jo Goes Everywhere!” airs every 2nd Sunday at 7pm EST on Big Blend Radio. Listen & Subscribe:https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/
🌍 Follow Jo’s travels:http://www.haveglasswilltravel.com/ https://recipestravelculture.com/
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, and Big Daily Blend channels:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

BIG BLEND RADIO'S VACATION STATION TRAVEL PODCAST
Travel America and Explore the World with Big Blend Radio’s ”Vacation Station” Travel Channel. Enjoy podcasts, interviews, and expert panel discussions covering travel advice and destination stories. Watch the podcasts interviews on YouTube or follow the shows here on Podbean, or on Apple, Spotify, TuneIn, ListenNotes, iHeartRadio, Rephonic, Deezer, and more.
Subscribe to the Big Weekly Blend e-Newsletter to get the latest articles, recipes, podcasts and magazines, and visit BlendRadioandTV.com and NationalParkTraveling.com.
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Big Blend Radio podcasts are hosted and produced by Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, the mother-daughter publishing team behind Big Blend Magazines, and full-time travelers on the Love Your Parks Tour.