Discover how music and nature beautifully intersect in this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio featuring composer and conductor Luke Diamond and conservation advocate and author Elaine A. Powers.

Based in Tucson, Luke is developing "Breathing in the Awe," an ambitious collection of ten original choral works inspired by visits to U.S. national parks. Performed by the Tucson Masterworks Chorale, the project transforms the emotional power of America’s most iconic landscapes into moving musical experiences. In this conversation, Luke and Elaine discuss the creative process behind composing park-inspired music, the importance of community arts, and how music can help reconnect audiences—especially youth—with the natural world. From hiking trails and studying wildlife to crafting lyrics and orchestration, Luke shares how immersive park experiences shape each composition. 🎵 Upcoming Performances: • March 14, 2026 — Tucson Festival of Books, Tucson, AZ • April 25, 2026 — Catalina Foothills High School Auditorium, Tucson, AZ • April 26, 2026 — Valley Presbyterian Church, Green Valley, AZ ✨ The team is currently seeking sponsors and partners to support the project’s next phase — including a potential national tour, professional recordings, and globally accessible releases so choirs and audiences everywhere can experience this music. Learn more & support the project: * Tucson Masterworks Chorale: https://www.tucsonmasterworkschorale.org/ * Project page: https://www.tucsonmasterworkschorale.org/breathing-in-the-awe * Luke’s park videos: https://www.facebook.com/TucsonMasterworksChorale/videos * Author Elaine A. Powers: https://elaineapowers.com/

In this fascinating episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures" Show, travel writer Debbie Stone explores the history, legends, and living culture of Easter Island, one of the world’s most remote and intriguing destinations.

From the iconic Moai statues and the enduring mysteries surrounding their construction and transport to the powerful traditions of the Rapa Nui people, Debbie shares insights from her firsthand experiences on this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The conversation delves into the island’s ancient Birdman ritual, the impact of European contact, and the importance of cultural preservation and responsible tourism today.

Listeners will also discover what makes Easter Island’s landscape so uniquely breathtaking, along with helpful travel tips for visiting respectfully and meaningfully. Whether you're fascinated by archaeology, Polynesian culture, or bucket-list island adventures, this episode reveals why Easter Island offers visitors a truly unforgettable blend of culture, legend, and landscape.

🔗 Read Debbie’s companion article: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/exploring-easter-island 🔗Read Debbie's "Global Adventures" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/#p=1

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel writer Lisa Evans takes listeners to historic St. Augustine, Florida — the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States and a must-visit destination as America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday.

From the iconic Castillo de San Marcos to the legendary Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, Lisa shares highlights from her immersive visit to this charming coastal city. Discover how the convenient Old Town Trolley Tours of St. Augustine makes exploring easy, why culinary tasting tours are a delicious way to experience local culture, and what makes the historic St. Francis Inn such a memorable place to stay.

The conversation also explores St. Augustine’s layered Spanish, British, and Native American heritage, its vibrant arts scene, and why history lovers will find endless stories around every corner.

Whether you're planning a heritage getaway, a food-focused trip, or looking ahead to America’s Semi-quincentennial celebrations, St. Augustine offers an unforgettable blend of history, hospitality, and coastal charm.

LISA'S ST. AUGUSTINE ARTICLES - Rovology.com: https://rovology.com/united-states/a-history-lovers-guide-to-visiting-st-augustine-fl/ - Wander with Wonder: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/things-to-do-in-st-augustine-fl/ - She Buys Travel: https://shebuystravel.com/st-francis-inn-bed-and-breakfast-st-augustine-fl/

MAGAZINE, SUBSTACK & MUSIC PLAYLIST * NEW: Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 * Subscribe to Journey Jukebox on Big Blend Media's Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/ * Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596

📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/

As Gettysburg, Pennsylvania prepares to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) explores how history, community, and culture come together in one of the nation’s most iconic destinations.

Featured guest Mary Grace Kauffman of Destination Gettysburg shares how the town is launching a year-long series of events leading up to 2026, honoring not only the Battle of Gettysburg but also the people, agriculture, and stories that continue to shape the community today. The conversation highlights Gettysburg’s deep roots in farming—especially apple production—alongside its growing culinary scene, sweet treats, and diverse lodging options.

Listeners will also learn about immersive experiences such as the famous Gettysburg Cyclorama, a new scenic train experience across the battlefield, Eisenhower’s historic home, and the future opening of the Gettysburg Black History Museum. Family history research, heritage tourism, and meaningful storytelling play a central role in how Gettysburg invites visitors to connect personally with America’s past while celebrating its future.

This engaging discussion shows why Gettysburg is more than a historic site—it’s a living, welcoming community ready to host one of the most significant milestones in U.S. history.

🌐 Plan your visit: https://destinationgettysburg.com/

📰 Check out the brand-new Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/

🌐 Follow the Food, Wine & Travel Show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show celebrates the 93rd anniversaries of Death Valley National Park and Saguaro National Park, while spotlighting the impact of artist residencies through the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF).

As part of the first installment of the Big Blend Radio NPAF "Artists in Parks" Retrospective, Tanya Ortega (NPAF Founder) and Lisa D. Smith (Big Blend Radio) explore how artists-in-residence draw inspiration from desert landscapes, dark skies, and extreme environments, often transforming their original creative concepts through immersive experiences in the parks. The conversation reflects on the historical significance of Death Valley and Saguaro, emphasizing the role of art in preserving cultural heritage and deepening public appreciation for national parks.

The episode highlights photographers, textile artists, and musicians whose work demonstrates the powerful connection between art and nature, while also underscoring the importance of community engagement and continued support for artist residency programs. This discussion sets the stage for the ongoing NPAF Retrospective series, celebrating artists, parks, and the enduring legacy of creativity in America’s public lands.

• 2019: Sarah Weeden

• 2019: Harun Mehmedinovic (Front Cover Photo Feature)

• 2020: Cody Brothers

Saguaro National Park

• 2024: Chelsea Bighorn – Textile / Fiber Art / Sculpture

• 2024 & 2025: Rachel Mari Kimber – Singer-Songwriter / Musician

LINKS & RESOURCES: - Big Blend Radio's ARTISTS IN PARKS Retrospective Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qryf/#p=1 - Subscribe on Substack (Free): https://theartsinparks.substack.com/ - National Parks Arts Foundation: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel," "Toast to The Arts," and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Travel writer and author Kathleen Walls joins Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station Travel" Podcast to explore the fascinating history, natural beauty, and modern-day appeal of Jekyll Island, Georgia.

Once an exclusive winter retreat for America’s wealthiest families, Jekyll Island is now a state park destination offering historic hotels and cottages, scenic biking trails, wildlife encounters, cultural tours, and seasonal events. Kathleen shares insights into the island’s Gilded Age past, its transformation into a public treasure, and why it remains a favorite for both day trips and extended stays.

From turtle conservation and nature programs to high tea, holiday celebrations, and coastal dining, this episode highlights what makes Jekyll Island a truly unique Southern travel experience.

Plan your visit: https://www.jekyllisland.com/

Read Kathleen Walls’ "Winter in Jekyll Island" article on Substack: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/exploring-jekyll-island

Visit Kathleen Walls online: https://www.americanroads.net/ https://katywalls.com/

As part of our America 250 programming, this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Way Back When," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Podcast, Linda Ballou takes us on a captivating journey through Malibu, California, uncovering its rich history, natural beauty, and lesser-known treasures.

The conversation begins with the remarkable story of May Rindge, known as the “Queen of Malibu,” whose fierce determination helped protect the region from the expansion of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the early 1900s. Linda shares fascinating anecdotes about Rindge’s legacy, including her role in shaping iconic landmarks such as the Malibu Pier and the Adamson House, both enduring symbols of Malibu’s cultural heritage.

The episode also explores Malibu’s quieter side — from hidden beaches and scenic hiking trails to springtime wildflower blooms and beloved local dining spots like Malibu Seafood Café. Along the way, Linda encourages travelers to look beyond the celebrity headlines and experience Malibu’s soulful landscapes, layered history, and timeless coastal charm.

📝 Read Linda’s travel article: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/in-a-malibu-state-of-mind-linda-ballou-shares-the-amazing-tale-of-may-rindge-the-queen-of-malibu-other-reasons-why-you-should-visit/

🌍 Keep up with Linda’s books & adventures: https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com

🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST. Subscribe: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station,” “Parks & Travel” and "Women Making History" Podcast Channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Recorded on location in St. Augustine, Florida, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" explores the rich history, vibrant culture, and living heritage of America’s oldest continuously occupied city. Travel writer Terri Guthrie discusses St. Augustine’s Spanish colonial roots and iconic landmarks, including the Fountain of Youth and Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, both of which play a major role in understanding the city’s early military, cultural, and colonial history.

The conversation highlights St. Augustine’s strategic importance as a Spanish stronghold, the stories behind its massive stone fort overlooking Matanzas Bay, and how these sites connect to the city’s broader narrative of exploration, defense, and cultural exchange. The episode also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging indigenous history and preserving untold stories as the nation approaches America’s 250th anniversary.

Special guests Bob and Maria Alvarez, COO and CFO of the Historic Florida Militia, share how historical reenactment brings the past to life through immersive education and storytelling. They discuss their involvement in reenactments, their work on the PBS documentary America’s Untold Story, and why keeping history alive is essential for future generations. The discussion also explores the deep Spanish connections between St. Augustine and the Camino de Santiago, reinforcing the city’s global and historical significance.

Plan your visit to St. Augustine, Florida: https://www.floridashistoriccoast.com/

FOLLOW TERRI’S ADVENTURES - https://travelwithterri.net/ - https://www.instagram.com/travelwithterri/

LISTEN - New episodes air every other Tuesday – Listen: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ - As part of our America 250 programming, this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station,” “Way Back When,” “Parks & Travel,” and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork