Celebrate National Rivers Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" podcast with travel writer and author Linda Ballou as she shares her refreshing and nature-filled journey through Corvallis, Oregon and the scenic Willamette Valley that's home to the mighty Willamette River.

From birding and farm-fresh cuisine to unique rural experiences and historic insights, this episode paints a vivid picture of Oregon’s natural beauty and cultural charm. We also detour to Portland to highlight Washington Park, garden strolls, and the vibrant culinary scene that reflects the state's creative spirit.

📝 Read Linda's article about her experience in Corvallis on NABBW.org: 🔗 https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/linda-ballou-finds-corvallis-oregon-to-be-organically-charming-energetic-highly-walkable-and-worthy-of-your-visit/

🌍 Follow Linda’s travel adventures & books: 🔗 https://lostangeladventures.com 🔗 http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/

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

🎤 Also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In celebration of National Rivers Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast features travel writer Lisa Evans, who takes us on a meaningful journey through the historic Mohawk Valley in Central New York.

From the region’s Indigenous heritage to its cultural and historical landmarks, Lisa highlights the Mohawk River’s significance in shaping communities and connecting the past with the present. The episode explores how the Erie Canal, taverns, churches, music, and food reflect the area’s deep and diverse history. Nature’s role in preserving heritage, and the emotional resonance of revisiting one’s roots, are central to this conversation.

🗺️ Read Lisa’s Full Article: 👉 https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/exploring-the-historic-mohawk-valley-of-central-new-york/

🎵 Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648

📚 About Lisa Evans: Author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die 🌐 https://writerlisa.com/ 🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans

📅 New Episodes Air Every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST! 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/

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.

In observance of Father’s Day and National Family Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features debut author B.R. Duray, who shares the inspiration behind his whimsical and heartfelt children’s picture book, The Mood Swing (Moon Tree Studios, June 15, 2025).

Inspired by the loss of his own father at a young age, Duray’s story gently guides young readers through the ups and downs of grief, emotional resilience, and healing. In this thoughtful conversation, he discusses the power of imagination, the importance of open communication, and how storytelling can help children (and parents) navigate complex emotions.

Learn more about The Mood Swing at: http://moodswing-media.org Listen to more Big Blend Radio episodes: https://bigblendradio.podbean.com/

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, to honor the life and legacy of Ted DeGrazia on what would be his 116th birthday (Flag Day, June 14).

Known as one of the most reproduced artists in the world, DeGrazia captured the spirit of the Southwest through bold, expressive paintings that reflected the region’s people, cultures, and landscapes. From his deep connections to Native American and Mexican traditions, to his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, DeGrazia’s work continues to inspire generations.

🎧 In This Episode: * The history and mission of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a 10-acre National Historic Landmark in Tucson * Stories behind current exhibits: Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera and Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia (on display through Sept. 3, 2025) * DeGrazia’s ongoing influence on art, culture, and community dialogue

📍 Did You Know? * DeGrazia once made his own flag * He was featured and honored by Arizona Highways for his unique artistic voice * The gallery provides a cool and creative escape during Tucson’s hot summers

🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org 🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday 📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com

From the Colorado River, American River and Green River, to the Salmon River, Tatshenshini, and Pacaure River, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou" (2024) podcast celerates National Rivers Month by covering six of Linda's favorite river experiences. You can read her article about her "river rat" adventures, here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/confessions-of-a-river-rat/

Expanded essays on Linda's trips on the Green River, Salmon River, and the Tatshenshini, (also known as Raven’s River) are included in "Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler’s Tales." Sections of the story Tough Cookies in Costa Rica details her time on the Pacuare River. "Destination Deep Time" about rafting the Grand Canyon and a story about Georgie White the Wild Cat of the Canyon, winner of the Solas Award for Best Destination at Travel Tales publications, are included in "Lost Angel Unleashed: Stories from the Heart."

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

As part of our YA Novel Showcase for Family Month (June), this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Books & Authors Show with Books Forward features author Elizabeth Harlan, who discusses her compelling new young adult novel, Becoming Carly Klein.

Set in 1980s New York City, the story captures the emotional intensity of adolescence while exploring themes of identity, relationships, and the evolving role of family. Elizabeth shares insights into the writing process, the lasting influence of music in storytelling, and how technology continues to shape youth experiences and YA literature today.

Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that resonates with readers of all ages.

🔗 Learn more at: https://elizabethharlan.com/

What happens when a racist viral video stars your best friend?

As part of our YA Novel Showcase for Family Month (June), this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward features award-winning author Pamela N. Harris, who discusses her latest young adult novel, "This Town Is On Fire."

In this engaging conversation, Pam shares her journey as a YA author and dives into the inspiration and writing process behind her powerful books. The discussion explores the challenges of writing for a younger audience, the importance of tackling timely social issues, and the nuanced dynamics of friendship, identity, and accountability in today's world. She also highlights the vital role that parents and educators play in shaping youth perspectives, the value of cultural representation in schools, and the power of open dialogue in addressing complex, real-life topics.

With authenticity and insight, Pam unpacks the motivations behind her characters and her commitment to honest, growth-centered storytelling.

🔗 Learn more at: https://www.pamharriswrites.com/