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Lisa Smith Big Blend Radio

We are Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, the mother-daughter Travel team and publishers of Big Blend Magazines, hosts of Big Blend Radio, full-time travelers on the Love Your Parks Tour where we document parks and public lands across the country. Being digital nomads we also pet sit on our travels, and we love it!

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Getting To Know Explorer &Amp; Author James Michael Dorsey &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
Getting to Know Explorer & Author James Michael Dorsey

Welcome to the launch of "Before They Vanish," a Big Blend Radio podcast hosted by explorer, author, and naturalist James Michael Dorsey and produced by Lisa D. Smith.In this debut episode, James take…

Welcome to the launc…

Welcome to the launch of "Before They Vanish," a Big Blend Radio podcast hosted by explorer, author, and naturalist James Michael Dorsey and produced by Lisa D. Smith.In this debut episode, James takes us on a journey through a lifetime of extraordinary adventures — from his first trip to Kenya where a chance meeting with a Maasai elder sparked a 30-year obsession with vanishing tribal cultures, to sleeping in caves in Tanzania, being used as baboon bait by the Hazda people, and feeding his dinner to a feral cat at a Chinese Air Force base. Along the way he reflects on what it means to give…

Listen · 41:07
We Are Guardians Film &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
We Are Guardians Film

In recognition of World Rainforest Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Podcast features co-directors Rob Grobman and Chelsea Greene who discuss their acclaimed documentary film,…

In recognition of Wo…

In recognition of World Rainforest Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Podcast features co-directors Rob Grobman and Chelsea Greene who discuss their acclaimed documentary film, "We Are Guardians," produced by Oscar-winning filmmaker, actor, and environmental activist Fisher Stevens.Available worldwide on digital platforms including Amazon, Apple TV, and Tubi, "We Are Guardians" takes viewers deep into the Brazilian Amazon, where Indigenous Guardians risk their lives to protect one of Earth's most vital ecosystems from illegal logging, mining, land grabbing, and deforest…

Listen · 38:39
A Story Of Resilience, Faith &Amp; Community &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
A Story of Resilience, Faith & Community

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast takes a reflective look at faith, resilience, and community in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana.The show begins with a special message from Wilb…

This episode of Big …

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast takes a reflective look at faith, resilience, and community in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana.The show begins with a special message from Wilbert Carmouche, Executive Director of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism, regarding the historic flooding currently impacting communities throughout Avoyelles Parish and the remarkable resilience of local residents, volunteers, first responders, and organizations working together to help those affected.Recorded onsite in Bunkie, Louisiana, hosts Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith visit David Haas Mem…

Listen · 20:15
A Fresh Taste Of Summer &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
A Fresh Taste of Summer

Happy Summer! On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink, and Be Merry" Show, Robert Schueller of Melissa's Produce joins us for a virtual summer foodie shopping spree to stock the brand-new dig…

Happy Summer! On thi…

Happy Summer! On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink, and Be Merry" Show, Robert Schueller of Melissa's Produce joins us for a virtual summer foodie shopping spree to stock the brand-new digital Big Blend Media House — pantry, fridge, freezer, wine cellar, backyard grill, poolside bar, and wellness retreat included.From Petite Pinkglow and Colada Royale pineapples to dragon fruit, tree-ripened mangoes, cherimoya, Moscato grapes, passion fruit, lychees, rhubarb, mini cucumbers, Marzano tomatoes, jicama, gemstone potatoes, steamed beans and lentils, sweet tamarind, ginger and turmeri…

Listen · 1:17:23
Art Spotlight On Fletcher Martin &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
Art Spotlight on Fletcher Martin

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "World of Art" Podcast, artist and art historian Victoria Chick explores the life and Legacy of Fletcher Martin (1904–1979)—a self-taught American artist who…

In this episode of B…

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "World of Art" Podcast, artist and art historian Victoria Chick explores the life and legacy of Fletcher Martin (1904–1979)—a self-taught American artist whose talent, determination, and keen powers of observation helped him become one of the most respected illustrators and muralists of his era.From humble beginnings in the American West to working as a boxer, miner, illustrator, muralist, teacher, and war correspondent, Martin lived the experiences he later captured through his art. Victoria discusses how his unconventional path shaped his artistic v…

Listen · 30:39
Seven Questions With Author Matt Cost &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
Seven Questions with Author Matt Cost

In celebration of Dog Dad Day (June 20), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" series spotlights mystery and historical fiction author Matt Cost, whose love of dogs, storytelling, an…

In celebration of Do…

In celebration of Dog Dad Day (June 20), this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" series spotlights mystery and historical fiction author Matt Cost, whose love of dogs, storytelling, and creative adventure shines in both his books and everyday life.Through a fun seven-question game, Matt shares insights into his writing journey, favorite hobbies, life lessons, future goals, and the canine companions who have inspired characters throughout his mystery novels. From his popular Maine-based mystery series and thriller adventures to upcoming historical mysteries, Matt offers a behind…

Listen · 25:10
We'Re Not Family: Building Healthier Workplace Teams &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
We're Not Family: Building Healthier Workplace Teams

In this thought-provoking (and shared) episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) examines o…

In this thought-prov…

In this thought-provoking (and shared) episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) examines one of the most common—and potentially problematic—workplace metaphors: the idea that coworkers are "Family."While the concept is often intended to foster connection and belonging, Rita explains how the family metaphor can blur boundaries, create unrealistic expectations, and introduce unhealthy power dynamics into the workplace. Unlike families, work Relationships are professional, with define…

Listen · 17:23
Pets, Purpose &Amp; Slow Travel &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
Pets, Purpose & Slow Travel

In celebration of Foster a Pet Month, this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" podcast is part of our "Getting to Know You" series spotlighting the people behind our shows and celebr…

In celebration of Fo…

In celebration of Foster a Pet Month, this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" podcast is part of our "Getting to Know You" series spotlighting the people behind our shows and celebrating the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com.This episode features co-host Angela Laws, Head of Charitable Partnerships and External Engagement at TrustedHousesitters, who shares her inspiring journey through pet sitting, purposeful travel, animal welfare, and community building.A lifelong animal lover, Angela discusses how pet sitting became a Lifestyle that has allowed her to experience cultures a…

Listen · 1:06:46
Lessons Learned From Travel: Look Both Ways On Small Islands &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
Lessons Learned from Travel: Look Both Ways on Small Islands

In Part One of her new "Lessons Learned from Travel" series, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares a memorable story from her award-winning travel memoir, Lost Angel Walkabout.In this episode o…

In Part One of her n…

In Part One of her new "Lessons Learned from Travel" series, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares a memorable story from her award-winning travel memoir, Lost Angel Walkabout.In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show, Linda reads an excerpt from her story "Look Both Ways on Small Islands," recounting her first international solo adventure to Tahiti. What began as a dream trip through Bora Bora and Moorea quickly turned into an unexpected lesson in awareness, perception, and personal safety when local authorities mistakenly suspected her of involvement in …

Listen · 21:39
Exploring Indiana'S Amish Country &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
Exploring Indiana's Amish Country

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the fascinating culture, traditions, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Amish and…

In this episode of B…

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the fascinating culture, traditions, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Amish and Mennonite communities in Shipshewana.From handcrafted furniture and pottery to leatherwork, quilting, dairy farming, and buggy making, Lisa shares her experiences meeting local artisans and learning how family, faith, and community shape daily life in Indiana's Amish Country. Highlights include visits to a traditional buggy maker, conversations about Amish and Mennonite history, and discovering h…

Listen · 50:55
True Farm Girl Adventures &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
True Farm Girl Adventures

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer, columnist, and author Cindy Ladage discus…

On this episode of B…

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer, columnist, and author Cindy Ladage discusses her new book, "True Farm Girl Adventures," and shares stories celebrating rural America, agricultural heritage, small-town communities, and the people who keep these traditions alive.From antique tractors and agri-tourism experiences to Route 66 road trips, hidden museums, historic figures, county fairs, and unexpected backroad discoveries, Cindy highlights the authentic experiences that conne…

Listen · 31:28
Beautiful And Historic Beaufort, South Carolina &Raquo; 1675620277558 C2Feb2026B4C6283Cee55E0A2A4C8788
Beautiful and Historic Beaufort, South Carolina

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jo Goes Everywhere" Travel Podcast that takes us to the Beaufort area of South Carolina, where travel writer and photographer Jo Clark…

Celebrate Great Outd…

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jo Goes Everywhere" Travel Podcast that takes us to the Beaufort area of South Carolina, where travel writer and photographer Jo Clark explored two stunning barrier islands: St. Phillips Island and Hunting Island. Jo shares the story of billionaire conservationist Ted Turner, who once owned St. Phillips Island and built a five-bedroom house there that visitors can actually rent today. She also talks about South Carolina's old-Growth forests, the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, the eerie beauty of Boneyard Beach, and the CCC…

Listen · 36:52