This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward features Alex Woodard—singer-songwriter, author, and storyteller—who discusses his powerful new novel, "Ordinary Soil" (Greenleaf, Aug. 12, 2025).

According to the National Rural Health Association, farmers are 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than those in any other profession, a sobering reality that underscores the hidden cost of modern agriculture. "Ordinary Soil" steps directly into this cultural reckoning, blending science, ancestral trauma, environmental urgency, and hope into a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story.

When a young farmer—burdened by a mysterious family legacy and mounting despair—attempts to take his life beneath a rotting burial elm, he sets off a chain of events that uncovers long-buried truths about farming, chemical dependency, and the intergenerational wounds carried in the land itself. At the heart of the novel is a startling idea: healing our bodies, minds, and communities may begin in the soil beneath our feet.

In this engaging conversation, Alex shares his transition from music to fiction, the real-life inspiration behind the novel, and how a chance encounter during a surf trip at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic shaped the story. He discusses Oklahoma’s agricultural history, the lingering legacy of the Dust Bowl, and why storytelling is essential for addressing complex topics like mental health, environmental responsibility, and consumer choice. Known for his artistic sensitivity, Woodard weaves peer-reviewed science into narrative fiction, creating a novel that serves as both a wake-up call and a balm—one that dares to offer hope in a time of crisis.

"Ordinary Soil" is also available as an audiobook narrated by the legendary Scott Brick, bringing added depth to this resonant and timely story. Learn more about Alex and "Ordinary Soil" at https://www.alexwoodard.com/

Learn more about Books Forward at https://booksforward.com/

This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s “A Toast to The Arts,” "Quality of Life," and “Nature Connection” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this heartwarming episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, Shelley Whizin, Live & Die Happy Coach, explores the power of presence, listening, and nourishment during the holiday season.

Shelley discusses how truly being present in conversations, offering genuine empathy, and sharing the nourishment of food—both physically and emotionally—can illuminate the lives of those around us. She reflects on finding joy even in dark times and emphasizes how small moments of connection can bring light, unity, and understanding into our relationships.

📘 Read Shelley’s article: https://bigblendlifestyle.substack.com/p/the-gift-of-presence

📚 Get her book – “What Do You Bring to the Table? A Savory, Sensory & Inspirational Guide to Living a Yummy Delicious Life” Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/What-You-Bring-Table-Inspirational/dp/1087932106

🎧 Listen to Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley — new episodes drop the first Sunday of each month: https://soul-diving-sunday-shelley.podbean.com/

📺 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life” and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Garden Gossip, gardener and author Sandra Mao us to talk about her vibrant new book, “Vibrant Harvest: Cultivating a Kaleidoscope of Colors in Your Vegetable Garden.” From purple tomatoes and magenta potatoes to speckled lettuces and edible flowers, Sandra shares how colorful vegetables can transform your garden, your kitchen, and even your kids’ eating habits.

We explore the beauty and benefits of growing heirloom and hybrid varieties, seasonal planting strategies, and simple ways to get children excited about gardening. Sandra also offers practical advice on seed starting, soil prep, pest control, harvesting techniques, preserving food, and creative recipe ideas using homegrown produce.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned gardener, this inspiring conversation reminds us that vegetable gardens don’t have to be all green—they can be joyful, flavorful, and bursting with color.

📌 Resources & Links: 🔹 Follow Sandra: https://www.instagram.com/sandra.urbangarden/ 🔹 Get "Vibrant Harvest": https://www.quarto.com/books/9780760395110/vibrant-harvest 🔹 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Quality of Life" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association, travel writer Eileen Cotter Wright, founder of PureWander.com, shares practical tips, honest stories, and encouraging advice for families who want to explore the world together. From juggling toddler meltdowns to embracing kid-led adventures, Eileen talks about the realities of traveling with young children — and why the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

She discusses her journey from traditional journalism to digital travel media, the importance of balancing family-friendly fun with adult experiences, and how exploring history and culture through travel helps children grow. Eileen also highlights favorite kid-friendly destinations like Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers advice on preparing children for flights, and emphasizes why travel insurance is essential for families.

This episode also features some of Eileen’s recent family travel stories across the U.S., the U.K., and Costa Rica, showcasing how accessible, meaningful, and joyful multigenerational adventure can be.

📸 Follow her family travel adventures on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DAgWDj5tmqp/?img_index=1 https://www.instagram.com/p/DO_Ya3zjgAR/?img_index=1 https://www.instagram.com/p/DHZM0lSzENe/ https://www.instagram.com/p/DQCQ04_APrz/

✈️ Read her family travel stories: - London, UK – https://purewander.com/lovely-london-with-littles-best-things-by-a-local/ - Nosara, Costa Rica – https://purewander.com/spend-a-oceanside-week-in-nosara-costa-rica/ - Grand Rapids, Michigan – https://purewander.com/add-grand-rapids-michigan-to-your-adventures-a-weekend-itinerary/

🌐Explore Eileen’s travel writing at https://purewander.com/ 🌐Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🌐Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

🎙️As part of our National Children's Month and Family Stories Month programming, this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Quality of Life," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Recorded on location at the Fighter Pilot Reunion for the 33rd Tactical Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, this special Veterans Day episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show honors the dedication, service, and legacy of those who have taken to the skies in defense of freedom.

Hosted by Terri Guthrie, this inspiring discussion features four special guests — Ron Guthrie, Jeff Neumann, Mike Smith, and Andrew Smith — all of whom flew the F-15 Eagle Fighter Jet as members of the 33rd Tactical Fighter Wing and the 60th Squadron, known as the Fighting Crows.

After their distinguished military careers, all four continued their passion for aviation by flying for Delta Air Lines — with Andrew Smith representing the next generation just beginning his Delta career. Together, they reflect on the unique bond forged among fighter pilots, the enduring importance of family legacies in military service, and the profound meaning of Veterans Day.

Through heartfelt stories and moments of laughter, they share insights into the transition from military to civilian aviation, the brotherhood and camaraderie that define a lifetime of service, and the values of integrity, discipline, and teamwork that carry forward long after retirement. The conversation also highlights the crucial role of families and communities in supporting those who serve — reminding us that honoring veterans is something to practice every day, not just once a year.

This episode is dedicated to Lt. Col. Mike Ridnouer who was a Fighter Pilot's Fighter Pilot and the best Squadron Commander in the Tactical Air Command.

🎧 New episodes of "Travel with Terri" air on Tuesdays: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/

✨ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Way Back When” and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass Travel Blog, explore the global importance of sustainable tourism and the growing call for responsible travel.

They discuss their recent experiences at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, where Joelle spoke on sustainable tourism. The role of water, equality, and cultural preservation were central themes, reflecting on how tourism impacts local communities—from small towns to major cruise destinations. The conversation highlights the importance of engaging local voices (especially women), protecting biodiversity, and preserving authenticity in travel experiences.

Through inspiring stories and examples of successful sustainable practices around the world, this episode reminds travelers that small, mindful actions can make a big difference in creating a more responsible, connected world.

📰 Read their article “Sustainable Tourism at the UN”: https://www.wandererscompass.com/sustainable-tourism-at-the-un/

🌐 Learn more and Wanderers Compass: https://www.wandererscompass.com/

📅 New episodes every second Monday on Big Blend Radio. Subscribe and listen to more episode: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Quality of Life, "Nature Connection," and "Parks & Travel" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Nature Connection" podcast, Dr. Amy L. Stark talks about her new illustrated children’s book, "A Magical Loveliness of Ladybugs," which encourages kids and families to reconnect with nature. Based on a true story, the book follows young Jan as she discovers her room filled with ladybugs — and along the way, readers learn how these tiny garden helpers play a big role in our environment.

Dr. Stark discusses the importance of physical books, the balance between technology and outdoor play, and how gardening can inspire family connection and environmental awareness. She shares insights on how pollinator gardens support biodiversity, how nature can ease eco-anxiety, and why stories that celebrate the natural world are essential for today’s children.

📘 Learn more about Dr. Amy Stark and her books: https://www.dramystark.com/

This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s programming for National Children’s Book Week (Nov. 3–9, 2025) and National Young Readers Week (Nov. 10-14, 2025), and is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend," "Quality of Life," and "Garden Gossip" Shows. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this shared, heart-opening and laughter-filled episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, Shelley Whizin "Your Live & Die Happy Coach," shares her innovative and joy-centered approach to transforming relationship patterns through play.

Shelley introduces listeners to the concept of PlayShops—interactive, experiential sessions designed to help people understand and release unhealthy relationship habits with humor, self-awareness, and compassion. Through engaging stories and heartfelt insights, she explains how fear-based patterns—what she lovingly calls our “Little Fearlings”—often take the driver’s seat in relationships, blocking love and connection. But through laughter, awareness, and playful role-play, we can retrain the brain, reclaim joy, and create relationships rooted in love and authenticity.

🧠💛 Key Takeaways: - PlayShops offer a lighthearted, effective way to shift negative relationship habits - Fear often drives emotional reactions and blocks love - Self-awareness and personal responsibility are essential for relationship growth - Humor can be a powerful healing tool in emotional work - Compassion and curiosity foster deeper human connection - Leadership in love requires vulnerability and authenticity - Living a “yummy delicious life” means embracing joy, love, and laughter every day - Daily love vows can strengthen relationships and nurture ongoing growth - It’s never too late to rewrite your love story—with play and presence

🔥 Join Shelley’s Next PlayShop – Camp Shoulda-Woulda-Coulda! Discover how to turn your “yucky” patterns into “yummy” ones at this playful online event. 🗓️ Saturday, November 8, 10am–12pm PT / 1–3pm ET 💻 Register: https://shelleywhizin.com/camp-shoulda-woulda-coulda-playshop

📚 Read Shelley’s Book – “What Do You Bring to the Table? A Savory, Sensory & Inspirational Guide to Living a Yummy Delicious Life” on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4ogVxYF

🎧 Listen to Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley — new episodes drop the first Sunday of each month: https://soul-diving-sunday-shelley.podbean.com/