From hiking through tropical rainforests to outrigger surfing, it's all about Costa Rica on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou." Hear about Linda's recent 13-day trip to Costa Rica with Overseas Adventure Travel. You can read Linda's articles about her trip NABBW.org here: - Part 1: From the Lush Rainforests to the Shining Sea: https://tinyurl.com/3x6t9ked  - Part 2: A Little Country with a Big Heart: https://tinyurl.com/46p4mrks  Watch Linda's YouTube playlist of short videos from her recent visit: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUfBG36FykHl4ZkQ5vsX9OVS1BfX8Bj6l  To learn more about  Linda’s adventures with Active Central/South American tours in Costa Rica, read her essay "Tough Cookies in Costa Rica" in her travel collection "Lost Angel Walkabout" which is available on her site at https://tinyurl.com/yc6y6vmk  Follow Linda Ballou's adventures at https://lostangeladventures.com/ and learn more about her books at http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/  Listen to Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show every 3rd Wednesday at High Noon PST,  here on YouTube:  https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm3Bmktgu8osUzx2VOF35dgO&feature=shared 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's WORLD OF ART Podcast with artist Victoria Chick focuses on the Gettysburg Cyclorama depicting “Pickett’s Charge up Cemetery Ridge” at the Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War. The innovative Gettysburg Cyclorama was the work of father-son painter duo Henri Philippoteaux (1815 – 1884), and Paul Philippoteaux (1846 – 1923). Read Victoria's article about it all here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/dioramas-cycloramas-and-the-painters-philippoteaux  Victoria Chick is a contemporary figurative artist and early 19th/20th century print collector based in Silver City, New Mexico. Visit: https://victoriachick.com/  Victoria appears on Big Blend Radio every 3rd Saturday. Follow the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3an38624 

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with IFWTWA, travel writer Scott Kendall who talks about his week long family vacation exploring the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. Hear about the destination's golf, boating, hiking, eating, relaxing, and lodging opportunities. Read Scott's article about his trip, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/adventures-in-lake-of-the-ozarks-missouri/  Scott Kendall is Editor of PlayStayEat.com as well as a freelance travel writer, photographer, and videographer based in The Woodlands, Texas. He has traveled extensively throughout the US and Europe, including several trips to Italy, Germany, Slovenia, Croatia, England, Ireland, and France. More: https://playstayeat.com/     Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) at https://www.ifwtwa.org/ Follow this podcast here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1chVylr9kzBMftUgBoLS-m 

Celebrating Great Outdoors Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel" Podcast features Don Hafner, who along with his wife Shelly, went to all 59 of the National Parks in 59 weeks during 2014/15. To date, they have visited 62 of America's National Parks, 48 US States, 22 foreign countries, and at least 30 national parks overseas. They've been north of the Arctic Circle and south of the Tropic of Capricorn, swam in all five oceans, and visited 5 of the 7 continents. Don is host to #ParkChat held on Wednesdays at 9pm EST on Twitter (X). Follow him @59NationalParks on Twitter (X) and Instagram. 

From Frank Lloyd Wright to the Flight 93 National Memorial, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel Show" with the International Food Wine & Travel Show features Eric Knopsnyder who shares what to experience in the Laurel Highlands region of southwestern Pennsylvania. Located just east of Pittsburgh, this beautiful four-season destination offers spectacular natural scenery, outstanding outdoor recreation venues, historic sites & attractions, family activities, scenic road trip adventures, and world class resorts. More: https://www.golaurelhighlands.com/ Learn more about the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association at https://www.ifwtwa.org/  Follow this podcast on YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/39nvjppe

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts & Parks" Show features mixed medoa artist Chelsea Bighorn, the National Parks Arts Foundation's June 2024 artist-in-residence at Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona. Chelsea Bighorn was born and raised in Tempe, Arizona. Her tribal affiliations are the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux tribes from Montana and the Shoshone-Paiute from Northern Nevada. Bighorn's work is the result of her combining traditional Native American design with elements from her Irish American heritage. Using this process, she tells her personal history through her art. Bighorn has shown her work at the Museum of Contemporary Native Art, SITE Santa Fe, The Balzar Gallery and her work is currently on display at The Center for Native Futures in Chicago, IL. She graduated with honors from The Institute of American Indian Arts in 2021 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Arts.  More: http://www.chelseabighorn.com/  Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation's unique artist residency programs in parks across the country at https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 

From gourmet trail mix to Spanish peanuts, this shared episode of "The Peanut Patch," a Big Blend Radio Foodie Podcast with Donna George, focuses on super snacks for road trippers and outdoor adventurers. Open from October-April and located in Yuma, Arizona, The Peanut Patch is a southwest tradition for farm fresh peanuts, culinary gifts, and sweet treats. Shop online year-round and learn more at https://thepeanutpatch.com/  The Peanut Patch podcast airs every 1st Friday at 12pm Arizona. Listen to episodes and follow the show here: https://peanut-patch.podbean.com/ 

In celebration of June being Great Outdoors Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Podcast with the Sequoia Tourism Council focuses on the upcoming Hike and Heal Sequoia National Park Wilderness Wellness Retreats. These retreats are facilitated by Sydney and Barry Williams of Hiking My Feelings in partnership with the Sequoia Parks Conservancy Field Institute. Starting in June, there will be three retreats this summer. FEATURED GUESTS: - NICOLE STIVERS of the Sequoia Parks Conservancy, the official nonprofit partner to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park and Lake Kaweah. They fund and enable park projects and programs that protect, preserve, and provide access to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.  Visit https://sequoiaparksconservancy.org/  - SYDNEY WILLIAMS -  Author, and Founder & CEO of Hiking My Feelings. This unique organization is on a mission to improve community health by creating opportunities for people to experience the healing power of nature. More at: https://hikingmyfeelings.org/  Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake.  Plan your visit to Tulare County  at https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/  Select featured photos are by Barry Williams / Hiking Your Feelings.

From the cobblestone streets of Cusco to the majestic Machu Picchu and the shores of Lake Titicaca, this episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast with Sharon K. Kurtz covers her immersive experiences with Intrepid Travel in Peru. Read about her journey that took her deep into the vibrant tapestry of local communities, here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/journeying-through-peru/  Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1ALXeV1vR6H10EtkPvgDW5  Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/ or follow her on https://www.instagram.com/shar_kurtz/ 

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Tuesday "Adventures in Asheville" Show that focuses on the various Hiking Opportunities you can enjoy in Asheville, North Carolina. Featured Guests: - Steve & Karen Wilson - Owners and innkeepers of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, a stunning pink lady in the Montford Historic District. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/   - Jennifer "Jenny" Gruhn, PhD - Owner and Biologist of Asheville Hiking Tours. More: https://www.ashevillehikingtours.com/   Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Show airs every 1st Tuesday. Follow the show on PodBean: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/  

This is episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast, where Debbie shares her adventures in historic Little Rock, the capital city of Arkanas.  Located on the banks of the Arkansas River, Little Rock is the largest city in the state of Arkansas. It combines the best of the south with a vibrant food scene, a buzzing downtown, and plenty of historic and cultural attractions. It’s a place that embraces its past while maintaining a modern, hip vibe with an eye to the future. And what’s more, you can have a good time at a great value here. Check out Debbie's story about Little Rock, here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/little-rock-in-an-arkansas-gem/  Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here:  https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Podcast features Jessica Carter, Director of Parks and Public Engagement at Save the Redwoods League, who discusses the 3rd Annual California State Parks Week happening June 12-16, 2024.  Through over 200 special in-person community events and virtual programming, this week-long event celebrates California’s 280 state parks and the people who visit and help protect these iconic places. California State Parks Week is presented by California State Parks, Save the Redwoods League, Parks California, and California State Parks Foundation.  Visit: * https://castateparksweek.org/   * https://www.parks.ca.gov/  * https://www.savetheredwoods.org/  * https://parkscalifornia.org/  * https://www.calparks.org/  Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Podcast airs every 4th Friday in collaboration with Margot Carrera, a fine art nature photographer who is passionate about the environment. More: http://margotcarrera.etsy.com/  This  episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Follow Big Blend Radio's Network of Podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Celebrate National Walking Month and Small Business Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station "Hey Wanna Go" Travel Show with travel advisor Cheryl Ogle. From getting a local's lay of the land and an insider's lowdown on the best shops, restaurants, events, and places to visit, to being kind on the wallet and a healthy activity inbetween culinary indulgences, hear about the myraid of ways walking tours can amp up your vacation experience.  Check out Cheryl's blog on Walking Tours, which includes some great (and free) recommendations: https://heywannago.wordpress.com/2024/04/30/walking-tours-to-celebrate-national-walking-month/  On Big Blend Radio every third Wednesday, Cheryl is a world traveler, accredited travel advisor, and owner of Hey Wanna Go that specializes in travel to Europe and the UK, as well as river and ocean cruises. More: https://heywannago.com/ 

From the Andes to Patagonia, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou" covers her 17-day sojourn into South America with Overseas Adventure Travel. You can read her stories on her South American experiences on NABBW.org here: * Chile: https://tinyurl.com/5n8caxzj * Patagonia: https://tinyurl.com/33ffa7be When Linda visited Chile and Patagonia, conservation efforts spearheaded by Kristine Tompkins were underway. When her husband, Doug Tompkins, died in a kayaking accident in 2015, she picked up the pieces of their shared dream to purchase millions of acres in Patagonia and Chile with the plan to give the land to the government to create a national park system that would rival the one we enjoy here in the U.S. In this Ted Talk she provides all the details with images of the transformation she is leading in Patagonia and Chile. https://youtu.be/UWothcLpazU?si=pwm6HXxkzWnjcnzM In 2023 National Geographic produced the film "Wild Life" spotlighting Tompkins efforts. Trailer: https://films.nationalgeographic.com/wild-life Follow Linda Ballou's adventures at https://lostangeladventures.com/ and learn more about her books at http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ Listen to Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show every 3rd Wednesday at High Noon PST, here on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm3Bmktgu8osUzx2VOF35dgO&feature=shared

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's JO GOES EVERYWHERE! Podcast with travel writer and photographer Jo Clark, we hear about her roots travel experiences in Gettysburg, where she literally stepped in the footsteps of her ancestors. Read her article about it here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/gettysburg-in-the-footsteps-of-ancestors/ Jo Clark is a travel writer and photographer based on South Carolina’s Grand Strand. She has a thirst for knowledge, history, great food, and wine! Her Big Blend Radio podcast "Jo Goes Everywhere!" airs every 2nd Sunday at 7pm EST. Follow the show on YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yfkjm8sd

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts & Parks" Show features Rick Makanaaloha Kia'imeaokekanaka San Nicolas (Kanaka Maoli) who returned for the fifth time as the National Parks Arts Foundation artist-in-residence at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.  Recognized as Ke Kumu Hulu Nui, meaning "Master of Hawaiian Featherwork of Old Hawai‘i," San Nicolas is dedicated to preserving and perpetuating this art form. Through his expertise and passion, he ensures that the traditions of feather lei making continue for generations to come. San Nicolas draws inspiration directly from the landscape of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, feeling a deep connection to the environment and its historical significance. He finds inspiration in the ancient Hawaiian featherwork tradition, particularly in the regalia worn by Hawaiian Royalty and warriors. This year Rick travels to Washington D.C. to present his featherwork for inclusion in the collection of the Museum of the Department of Interior as well as having it on display in the office of Secretary Deborah Haaland (Laguna Pueblo). He is also a consulting advisor in historical featherwork on the upcoming TV Series "Chief of War," starring Jason Momoa. More at: https://www.hawaiianfeathers.com/   Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation's unique artist residency programs in parks across the country at https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 

From hiking and cycling to kayaking and downtown public art and history walks, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Podcast focuses on the various ways to explore and experience Tulare County.  Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake.   Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include Sintia Kawasaki-Yee - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Suzanne Bianco - Visit Visalia,  Cassidy Collins - Tulare Chamber of Commerce, and Kristy Martin - Porterville Chamber of Commerce  Plan your visit with these websites mentioned in the podcast: - Sequoia Tourism Council: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/  - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://www.nps.gov/seki/index.htm  - Visit Visalia - https://www.visitvisalia.com/  - Tulare Chamber of Commerce - http://www.tularechamber.org/  - Porterville Chamber of Commerce - https://www.portervillechamber.org/ 

It's all about winter adventures in Jasper National Park on this episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast with Sharon K. Kurtz. Here she uncovered the magic of winter in the Canadian Rockies, from the captivating Maligne Canyon Icewalk to the tranquil allure of snowshoeing on Pyramid Lake. Nestled in the heart of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, Jasper National Park is the largest national park in Canada and covers more than 4,000 square miles of natural wonders. Known for its abundant wildlife and extensive trail network; visitors from all over the world travel here to experience this very special place in all seasons. Read Sharon's article about her adventures here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/winter-adventure-in-jasper-national-park  Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1ALXeV1vR6H10EtkPvgDW5  Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/  or follow her on https://www.instagram.com/shar_kurtz/ 

From Joshua Tree National Park to the fascinating Integratron, it's all about Great Road Tripping Adventures on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's 4th Saturday “Palm Springs Sunshine Stays” Show. FEATURED GUESTS: * KIMBERLI MUNKRES from Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, a consortium of independently-owned boutique hotels in the desert resort community of Palm Springs, in Southern California. View the hotels and sign up the the monthly Boutiquely Palm Springs newsletter here: https://www.palmspringspreferredsmallhotels.com/  * SANDI HEMMERLEIN is a writer and photojournalist. Based in L.A. but constantly on the prowl for new adventure, she spends most of her time nurturing her interest in birds, animals, neon, historic theaters, puppets, folk art, trains, and stained glass. Sandi documents everything on her own website https://www.avoidingregret.com which complements her work for PBS SoCal (as producer of the digital series SoCal Wanderer), Atlas Obscura, Los Angeles Magazine, Stacker, and many others.  * KEVIN CARLOW has been a seeker of the strange and mysterious since his early childhood, spent reading in dusty corners of libraries and running amok in the woods of Massachusetts. While making a living in the service industry full-time in the Coachella Valley these days, he also has years of experience blogging and writing professionally about topics as varied as cocktails, movies, and tarot-reading. More: https://crypticcocktails.com/  Follow this Big Blend Radio Podcast here: https://palm-springs-sunshine-stays.podbean.com/ 

In celebration of National Park Week, this episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writer Debbie Stone who shares her adventures in New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia. New River Gorge National Park conserves over 70,000 acres of land along the New River between the towns of Hinton and Fayetteville within the central part of southern WVA. This is the newest National Park in the U.S., having been granted this status in 2020, bringing the total number of National Parks to 63. Read Debbie's article about her experiences here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-west-virginias-new-river-gorge-national-park/  

In Celebration of National Park Week, we are featuring this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast, where Debbie talks about her hiking adventures in El Chaltén, a small, Patagonian mountain town known as the “National Capital of Trekking” in Argentina. Located in the Southern Andes, in Los Glaciares National Park, El Chaltén is set amid a valley between two rivers, at the foot of the unmistakable Cerro Chaltén or Mt. Fitz Roy. Check out Debbie's article and photos, here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/el-chalten-hiking-adventures-in-argentine-patagonia   And, learn more about her experiences at Estancia Cerro Guido that borders the eastern side of Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chilean Patagonia: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/immerse-yourself-in-the-soul-stirring-landscape-of-patagonia/   Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/

In Celebration of National Park Week, we are featuring this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast, where Debbie shares her adventures in Southern Patagonia, Chile. Hear about her experiences at Estancia Cerro Guido that borders the eastern side of Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chilean Patagonia. The ranch covers an area of roughly 250,000 acres and is the largest estancia in the area. Torres del Paine National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the Eighth Wonder of the World. Read her story here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/immerse-yourself-in-the-soul-stirring-landscape-of-patagonia/ Check out Debbie's adventures in El Chalten, Argentine Patagonia: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/el-chalten-hiking-adventures-in-argentine-patagonia/ Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In celebration of National Park Week, this episode of Big Blend Radio with artist Victoria Chick is all about the art, life and legacy of George Catlin. George Catlin was an American painter, author, and traveler, who specialized in portraits of Native Americans in the American frontier. Many of the places he traveled through are parts of our National Park Service today. He explored the American West five times during the 1830s, and wrote about and painted portraits that depicted the life of the Plains Indians. Read Victoria's article about him here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/american-artist-author-traveler-george-catlin VICTORIA CHICK is a contemporary figurative artist and early 19th/20th century print collector based in Silver City, New Mexico. Visit: https://victoriachick.com/ Victoria appears on Big Blend Radio every 3rd Saturday. Follow the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3an38624 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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With National Park Week (April 20-28), Earth Day (April 22), Arbor Day (April 27), Junior Ranger Day (April 27), and Kids to Parks Day (May 18) coming up, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 3rd Tuesday "Go to Natchitoches" show is all the various parks, historic sites and trails, and events you can experience in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Featured guest is K. Nicole Connell, Communication Manager of Natchitoches Convention & Visitors Bureau, who talks about events and destinations such Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Melrose Plantation, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, El Camino Real de las Tejas National Historic Trail, the historic Jefferson Highway, Briarwood Nature Reserve, and Kisatchie National Forest. Founded in 1714, Natchitoches is the original French Colony and oldest settlement in Louisiana. Celebrating a vibrant blend of French, Spanish, African, Native American, and Creole cultures, this charming city is part of the Cane River National Heritage Area and Louisiana’s No Man’s Land. More about Natchitoches and its current events at https://natchitoches.com/ Follow Big Blend Radio's "Go to Natchitoches" show here: http://tinyurl.com/yc8csn8b Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

South Africa offers a unique blend of nature, culture, ocean, and unique thrill-seeking experiences. On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with IFWTWA, travel journalist Bernie van der Linde shares why South Africa is known as "a world in one country," and discusses its diverse landscapes and experiences. Read her article that highlights some of her recommended must-dos when you visit the country: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/must-do-experiences-in-south-africa/ Bernie founded the travel blog https://travelbuddieslifestyle.com/ with her best friend and business partner, Petra, where they share their travel experiences of unique and luxurious destinations. Bernie’s love for exploring has taken her to many exotic locations around the world. Her passion for writing and travel has made her a trusted source of information and inspiration for the discerning traveller looking to explore the world in style. Learn more about the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) at https://www.ifwtwa.org/ Follow Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Shows with IFWTWA Here: https://shows.acast.com/big-blend-radio-ifwtwa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's all about what to experiences on Whidbey and Camano Islands on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Tuesday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA. Featured guest is Inge Morascini who talks about the area's nature and outdoor adventures, farms and regional flavors, history and cultural arts, seasonal events, and unique lodging destinations. Located in the middle of Puget Sound, Whidbey and Camano Islands are an easy drive from Seattle. A great antidote for big city pressures, these rural islands feature wide-open beaches, scenic vistas, outdoor adventures, great art, fine dining, and more. See: https://whidbeycamanoislands.com/ For more about the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) visit https://www.ifwtwa.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Friday "Toast to The Arts & Parks" Show with the National Parks Arts Foundation features Carissa "Lucky" Garcia, the Spring 2024 NPAF artist-in-residence in Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Carissa “Lucky” Garcia is an Indigenous/Chicana writer, performing artist, community organizer, anti-oppression educator and Indigenous Justice advocate. She is a founding member of the La Resistencia publishing press and poetry collective amplifying LGBTQ+ voices of color. Carissa’s storytelling communicates ideas that focus on her experience as an Iraq War veteran, Native American culture, love, politics, and her appreciation for comic books and science fiction. Her work has been featured at the University of Missouri Latinx Graduate Program, Rhode Island School of Design, UMKC Women of Color Leadership Conference, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Flatland KC, Prescott College, Redline Contemporary Arts Center, Dairy Arts Center, Denver Art Museum, and on the streets all across America. Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation's unique artist residency programs in parks across the country at https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ Learn more about Chaco Culture National Historical Park at https://www.nps.gov/chcu/index.htm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In time to plan for National Park Week (April 20-28), Earth Day (April 22), Junior Park Ranger Day (April 27), and Kids to Parks Day (May 18), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Podcast focuses on park and outdoor experiences in Tulare County. Hear about the region's giant sequoia trees, waterfalls, and wildflowers, along with picnics and cultural celebrations in beautiful community parks, preserves, gardens, and more. Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake. Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include Sintia Kawasaki-Yee - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, and Suzanne Bianco - Visit Visalia. Plan your visit with these websites mentioned in the podcast: - Sequoia Tourism Council: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ - Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: * https://www.nps.gov/seki/index.htm * https://nps.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Cascade/index.html?appid=9f33fa32af394a129b0b548429dced01 * https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/road-construction.htm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Celebrate National Wildlife Week with this inaugural episode of Big Blend Radio's WANDER THE WORLD WITH SHARON podcast with Sharon K. Kurtz, who shares her experiences at the annual Whooping Crane Festival in Port Aransas, Texas. Nestled between Mustang Island and the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, Port Aransas unfolds as a Texas Gulf Coast sanctuary of small-town charm and endless activities. The 18 miles of pristine beaches, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, and encounters with diverse wildlife create a haven where the Texas Coastal Bend barrier islands and estuaries play the leading roles. Dolphins gracefully navigate the waters, sea turtles find refuge, and migrating birds paint a kaleidoscope of nature’s beauty. Read Sharon's article about it all here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/discover-the-timeless-allure-of-port-aransas/ Plan your adventure in Port Aransas at https://www.portaransas.org/ Big Blend Radio's "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast features award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz. New episodes air every first Wednesday at 12pm CST at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1ALXeV1vR6H10EtkPvgDW5 Sharon Kurtz is an accomplished travel writer and award-winning photographer based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her adventures through compelling storytelling. Her travels have taken her to more than 50 countries on six continents—her carry-on is always packed, ready for the next adventure. Enjoy Sharon’s writing at https://sharonkkurtz.com/ or follow her on https://www.instagram.com/shar_kurtz/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone to Devils Tower National Monument and Mount Rushmore, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with IFWTWA features travel writer Susan Lanier-Graham, who shares some of her RV adventures through America's Western National Park Country, along with some great advice for those just getting started in RV travel. Susan Lanier-Graham is the publisher and founder of https://www.ifwtwa.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Thursday "New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Association" Show features John & Veronica Bush, owners and innkeepers of The Victorian Bed & Breakfast in Chama, which is north of Santa Fe and just south of the Colorado border. Hear about the historic inn (est. 1880), and what to experience in the greater Chama region including the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, the nature and outdoor recreational opportunities, and even some local folklore and unexplained mysteries! Book your stay at https://www.thevictorianchama.com/ Stay New Mexico True and Visit: https://www.nmbba.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Enjoy this inaugural episode of Big Blend Radio's JO GOES EVERYWHERE! Podcast with travel writer and photographer Jo Clark, who shares her nature adventures on the Azores Islands of Terceira and São Jorge. The Azores are volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, halfway between the United States and Portugal. Take one of the direct flights from New York (or other North American spots), and you will soon be surrounded by unspoiled nature on these Portuguese islands. Read Jo's story here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/experience-natural-beauty-on-the-amazing-azores-islands/ Jo Clark is a travel writer and photographer based on South Carolina’s Grand Strand. She has a thirst for knowledge, history, great food, and wine! Her Big Blend Radio podcast "Jo Goes Everywhere!" airs every 2nd Saturday at 7pm EST. Listen here: https://shows.acast.com/jo-goes-everywhere Keep up with Jo's adventures at https://www.haveglasswilltravel.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From giant sequoia trees and wildflowers to seasonal events and family activities, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Podcast shares what to experience in Early Spring in Tulare County, California. FEATURED GUESTS: - Sintia Kawasaki-Yee - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. More: https://www.nps.gov/seki/index.htm - Suzanne Bianco - Visit Visalia. More: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ - Cassidy Collins - Tulare Chamber of Commerce. More: http://www.tularechamber.org/ Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake. Plan your visit: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the very first episode of Big Blend Radio's NEW "Women Making History" podcast featuring a Big Blend Radio "From the Vault" podcast of our "Parks & The Arts" show featuring Tanya Ortega, an accomplished photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). Hear about the new podcast, Tanya's photography career and NPAF's unique artist-in-residence programs in national park units across the country. Check out Tanya's editorial Q&A about her photography: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/photography-art-insider-tanya-ortega/ Listen to the Big Blend Radio Podcast Playlist of NPAF's Women Artists-in-Residence: https://soundcloud.com/bigblendradio/sets/npaf-women-artists Women's History within the National Parks Service: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/womenshistory/index.htm Follow this new Big Blend Radio "Women Making History" podcast: https://shows.acast.com/women-making-history Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend's ROAD TRIP Radio podcast features Steve & Karen Wilson who share their Kentucky Road Trip adventures including Cumberland Falls State Park and the Natural Bridge in Daniel Boone National Forest, and Buffalo Trace Distillery and Lexington Distilling on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Known as "Mr & Mrs Wild," Steve and Karen own and run The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in the Montford Historic District in Asheville, North Carolina. Visit: https://www.lion-rose.com/ Steve & Karen also co-host Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Show which airs every 1st Tuesday. Follow the show on YouTube: http://tinyurl.com/ycxwjkr7 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" Podcast, Debbie shares her adventures in the National Park of American Samoa, which is one of the most remote national parks in the U.S. It takes much effort and time to get here, but intrepid travelers who make the journey will discover untouched coral sand beaches, secluded villages, rainforests, rare flora and fauna, splendid vistas of land and sea and rich culture. Read about her visit: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/visiting-the-national-park-of-american-samoa/ Read Debbie's article about her experiences in the island country of Samoa, here: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-rewards-are-many-for-those-who-venture-to-samoa/ Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures with Debbie Stone" podcast airs every 4th Tuesday. Follow the podcast here: http://tinyurl.com/m6z7v6ms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The spring desert wildflower season has begun! This episode of Big Blend Radio's 4th Saturday “Palm Springs Sunshine Stays” Show features Kimberli Munkres who represents Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. Hear all about the spring wildflower season including where and how to witness the beauty of these wonderful wildflowers, and the local boutique hotels that have gorgeous gardens to enjoy as part of your "flower powered" experience. Listen to this past podcast covering outdoor experiences in Palm Springs that includes hiking and cycling, jeep tours and aerial tram rides: https://youtu.be/VF73FQsqev4?feature=shared Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels is a consortium of independently-owned boutique hotels in the desert resort community of Palm Springs, in Southern California. Plan your visit and sign up for the monthly Boutiquely Palm Springs newsletter at: https://www.palmspringspreferredsmallhotels.com/ Follow this Big Blend Radio Podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/38883u9e Podcast photo courtesy of Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels & Visit Palm Springs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Part Four of our 4-Part Big Blend Radio NATURE CONNECTION Podcast series focusing on Nature Destinations Around the World and Across America. This episode covers Nature Destinations in Coastal Mississippi and Florida: - LISA EVANS - travel writer and photographer, and author of "“100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die.” Visit https://writerlisa.com/ - KATHLEEN WALLS - Travel writer and author of numerous Florida books. Visit http://www.katywalls.com / and https://www.americanroads.net/ * DIANE DOBRY - Travel writer, podcaster, and memoirist. More: https://discoverydaze.com, and https://hungarianaquarian.com/ LISTEN TO THE REST OF THE NATURE CONNECT PODCASTS IN THIS SERIES HERE: http://tinyurl.com/5dkvjyfx * EPISODE ONE features nature photographer and Nature Connection cohost Margot Carrera, who talks about Communing with Nature in Sacred Spaces. * EPISODE TWO covers Nature Destinations from Vermont to California & Ecuador with travel writers Jamie Edwards & Linda Ballou. * EPISODE THREE covers Nature Destinations in North & South Carolina with Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast, and travel writer Jo Clark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Part Three of our 4-Part Big Blend Radio NATURE CONNECTION Podcast series focusing on Nature Destinations Around the World and Across America. This episode covers Nature Destinations in North & South Carolina: - NORTH CAROLINA: Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast in Asheville, talk about what to experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Pisgah National Forest, in North Carolina. More: https://www.lion-rose.com/ - SOUTH CAROLINA: Jo Clark, travel writer and photographer, talks about Huntington Beach State Park and Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, near Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. Follow Jo's blog at https://www.haveglasswilltravel.com/ LISTEN TO THE REST OF THE NATURE CONNECT PODCASTS IN THIS SERIES HERE: http://tinyurl.com/5dkvjyfx * EPISODE ONE features nature photographer and Nature Connection cohost Margot Carrera, who talks about Communing with Nature in Sacred Spaces. * EPISODE TWO covers Nature Destinations from Vermont to California & Ecuador with travel writers Jamie Edwards & Linda Ballou. * EPISODE FOUR covers Nature Connections in Florda & Coastal Mississippi with travel writers Lisa Evans, Kathleen Walls, and Diane Dobry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Part Two of our 4-Part Big Blend Radio NATURE CONNECTION Podcast series focusing on Nature Destinations Around the World and Across America. ON THIS EPISODE: - LINDA BALLOU, award-winning travel writer and author, talks about her experience at Sacha Lodge in Ecuador as well as the natural highlights of where she lives in Los Angeles. Learn more about Linda, who hosts Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Podcast, at https://lostangeladventures.com/ - JAMIE EDWARDS, award-winning travel writer and photographer, talks about her nature experiences in beautoful Stowe, Vermont. Cehck out her article about this sustainable destination on her blog site: https://iamlostandfound.com/best-things-to-do-in-stowe-in-summer/ LISTEN TO THE REST OF THE NATURE CONNECT PODCASTS IN THIS SERIES HERE: http://tinyurl.com/5dkvjyfx * EPISODE ONE features nature photographer and Nature Connection cohost Margot Carrera, who talks about Communing with Nature in Sacred Spaces. * EPISODE THREE covers Nature Destinations in North & South Carolina with Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast, and travel writer Jo Clark. * EPISODE FOUR covers Nature Connections in Florda & Coastal Mississippi with travel writers Lisa Evans, Kathleen Walls, and Diane Dobry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Part One of our 4-Part Big Blend Radio NATURE CONNECTION Podcast series focusing on Nature Destinations Around the World and Across America. This episode features fine art nature photographer and co-host Margot Carrera who discusses sacred spaces in nature, and how we can energetically and spiritually help give back to nature. See Margot's photography, here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/margotcarrera/?etsrc=sdt LISTEN TO THE REST OF THE NATURE CONNECT PODCASTS IN THIS SERIES HERE: http://tinyurl.com/5dkvjyfx * EPISODE TWO covers Nature Destinations from Vermont to California & Ecuador with travel writers Jamie Edwards & Linda Ballou. * EPISODE THREE covers Nature Destinations in North & South Carolina with Steve & Karen Wilson, owners of The Lion and the Rose Bed and Breakfast, and travel writer Jo Clark. * EPISODE FOUR covers Nature Connections in Florda & Coastal Mississippi with travel writers Lisa Evans, Kathleen Walls, and Diane Dobry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou," Linda takes us to Tasmania where she spent a week exploring Cradle Mountain National Park, the Cataract Gorge in Launceston, and Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park on the sunny east coast. With 40 percent of the land in this island state preserved with 880 tracks lacing the national parks, Tasmania is one of the last hold outs for true conservation. The caring population of just over half a million are doing all they can to keep their home clean and green. Read Linda's story, "Tasmania: The Devil Made Me Do It!" that's featured in her book, "Lost Angel Unleashed: Stories from the Heart." Follow Linda's adventures at https://lostangeladventures.com/ and learn more about her books at http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ Listen to Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show every 3rd Wednesday at High Noon PST, here: https://shows.acast.com/linda-ballou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In honor of Arizona becoming the 48th state admitted to the Union on February 14, 1912, today's episode of Big Blend Radio features Lisa Hopper, Executive Director of the Arizona Heroes Memorial. WATCH THIS PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/oPNqMjY3EnQ The AZ Heroes Memorial pays tribute to Arizona's veterans, active military, first responders, and healthcare workers. The site in Naranja Park, Oro Valley, AZ is currently under construction, with an expected completion of Summer 2024. When complete, the Memorial will be open to the public, allowing for a dedicated space in which to remember and learn about the Grand Canyon State's heroes. Such a physical space is unique to Arizona. Learn more and be part of this honorable project, here: https://azheroesmemorial.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the pyramids of Egypt and the Sahara Desert of Morocco to the Great Serengeti Wildebeest Migration in East Africa and Table Mountain in Cape Town, this episode of Big Blend Radio celebrates Travel Africa Day (February 13). Africa is the world's second-largest continent covering approximately 11.7 million square miles, and is home to 7 Natural Wonders of the World including the Ngorongoro Crater, The Nile River, The Okavango Delta, The Sahara Desert, The Red Sea Reef, Serengeti Migration, and Mount Kilimanjaro. CHECK OUT BIG BLEND MAGAZINE ARTICLES & BIG BLEND RADIO PODCASTS COVERING AFRICA: * Jamie Clark - Adventures in Africa: http://tinyurl.com/55h3eub6 * Sharon Kurtz - King Tut & The Valley of The Kings: http://tinyurl.com/mr2xjmnm * Barbara Redding - Magical Tour of Morocco: http://tinyurl.com/3fap2r52 * Debbie Stone - Namibia's Little Five: http://tinyurl.com/mrx4sps5 * Debbie Stone - Chobe & Victoria Falls: http://tinyurl.com/nh9rhfpk * Debbie Stone - Captivating Cape Town: http://tinyurl.com/yt3xex4d * Elizabeth Willoughby - Epic Zimbabwe Road Trip: http://tinyurl.com/y79jxrrb * Elsa Van Der Byl - Hippos, Hotspots & Homelands: http://tinyurl.com/2s62nfnb * Elsa Van Der Byl - Sailing from Venice to Cape Town: http://tinyurl.com/yetjydne * Roxie LaFever - Roaming with Roxie: http://tinyurl.com/5x3xnvz8 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 1st Friday "Toast to The Arts & Parks" Show features artist Diana Miller, the latest National Parks Arts Foundation artist-in-residence at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Diana lives on the island of Hawai’i near Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, combining her passion for art and environmental stewardship. Hear about her art, love of the park, and her advocacy for protecting native flora and fauna. WATCH THIS PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/e8iaXSDMUqc Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation's unique artist residency programs in parks across the country at https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In honor of Black History Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Sequoia Country" Podcast focuses on the African American History, Culture, and Experiences in Tulare County, California. FEATURED GUESTS: - Sintia Kawasaki-Yee - Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. More: https://www.nps.gov/seki/index.htm - Donette Silva Carter - Tulare Chamber of Commerce. More: http://www.tularechamber.org/ - Patty Rocha, Pastor Albert Hudson & Martha Hudson - Tulare Historical Museum. More: https://www.tularehistoricalmuseum.org/ Located in Central California, Tulare County is home to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Giant Sequoia National Monument and Sequoia National Forest, and charming art and agricultural communities including Visalia, Tulare, Exeter, Dinuba, Porterville, Three Rivers, Lindsay, and Woodlake. Plan your visit: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“To Travel is to Live.” Hans Christian Andersen From solo adventures and romantic escapes to road trips and multigeneraltional cruises, this episode of Big Blend Radio's BIG DAILY BLEND Podcast celebrates National Plan for Vacation Day (January 30) with some well-learned travel advice. OUR WEBSITES & RESOURCES FOR TRAVEL INSPIRATION * Park & Travel Site: https://nationalparktraveling.com/ * Big Blend Site: https://blendradioandtv.com/ * Our Big Blend Experts: http://tinyurl.com/2ua49xkm * Parks & Travel Facebook Group: http://tinyurl.com/r2mzrmjw * "Traveler's Tales" Music Playlist on Spotify: http://tinyurl.com/339jwvs9 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.