In celebration of National Pet Month, this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” podcast explores the lifesaving work of Helen Sanders Cat Protection & Welfare Society, a Southern California nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, protecting, and advocating for cats.

Along with producer and host Lisa D. Smith, co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters.com welcomes special guest Deborah Phelan-Magaldi, co-founder of Helen Sanders CatPAWS for an inspiring conversation about TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return), fostering, rescue partnerships, and community involvement in feline welfare.

The discussion highlights the importance of managing feral and community cat populations through compassionate care, veterinary partnerships, and public education. Deborah also shares the remarkable story of Benny, a rescue cat who overcame trauma and now serves as an ambassador for resilience and healing.

🐾 Learn more about Helen Sanders CatPAWS: https://helensanderscatpaws.com/

🐾 Learn about TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/

🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com

What happens when determination, talent, and resilience collide against all odds? In this inspiring Big Blend Radio episode, we explore the powerful documentary "96 Pounds of Dynamite" with director Loren Goldfarb, following the extraordinary journey of Chad “Shorty” McDaniel, a competitive pool player living with brittle bone disease (Osteogenesis Imperfecta).

The film captures Chad’s path from small-town Mississippi pool halls to high-level amateur competition, while also sharing the personal struggles, discrimination, and life-changing decisions he faces along the way. Through humor, grit, and authenticity, Chad challenges assumptions about disability and reminds us of the importance of dignity, focus, and self-belief.

The conversation also dives into the art of documentary filmmaking, the role films can play in building compassion and awareness, and how Chad’s story continues to inspire audiences nationwide.

"96 Pounds of Dynamite" won the Audience Choice Award at the 2026 Vero Beach Film Festival and features executive producer Jeanette Lee, also known as “The Black Widow.”

The film releases May 11, 2026 on Amazon and Apple TV. Learn more at https://dynamite-film.com/

Get ready for spring and summer adventures in California’s Sequoia Country, home to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, giant sequoias, scenic caves, roaring waterfalls, and vibrant community events across Tulare County.

In this shared Big Blend Radio "California Sequoia Country" episode, guests share insider tips on exploring the parks, enjoying seasonal festivals, and experiencing family-friendly activities throughout the region. Learn about guided hikes, educational programs, wildlife safety, and how to make the most of your visit during one of the most beautiful times of year.

The conversation also highlights local traditions like the Woodlake Lions Club Rodeo, upcoming events in Visalia, Crystal Cave adventures, shuttle services, and opportunities to connect with nature through the Sequoia Parks Conservancy.

Whether you’re planning a road trip, outdoor getaway, or family vacation, this episode offers practical travel tips and inspiration for discovering the natural beauty and community spirit of Tulare County. Plan your adventure at https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/

Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include: - Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/ - Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm - Daniel Huecker – Sequoia Parks Conservancy: https://sequoiaparksconservancy.org/ - William Valero – Woodlake Lions Club Rodeo: https://www.woodlakelionsclub.com/woodlake-lions-rodeo

Celebrate spring with picnics, pasta, and perfectly paired wines in this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wine Time with Peggy" Podcast. Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona, shares expert tips for planning unforgettable outdoor dining experiences, from choosing the right wines to pairing them with easy, travel-friendly foods.

In honor of seasonal celebrations like International No Diet Day, National Beverage Day, National Tourism Week, World Moscato Day, Mother’s Day, International Chardonnay Day, the anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, and National Wine Day, this episode highlights the joy of savoring good food, great wine, and meaningful moments.

Learn how to select picnic-perfect wines, store and serve them outdoors, and pair them with flavorful dishes. Peggy also dives into Arizona’s vibrant wine scene and shares insights into Moscato, Chardonnay, Viognier, and other warm-weather favorites.

Plus, enjoy Peggy’s bright and refreshing Lemon Orzo Salad recipe—a picnic-ready pasta dish that pairs beautifully with crisp white wines and springtime sipping.

LINKS & RESOURCES - Get Peggy’s picnic wine pairing tips and Lemon Orzo Salad recipe: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/wine-picnics-pasta - Learn more about LDV Winery: https://ldvwinery.com - Check out the "Wine & Bites" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/fmlb/#p=1 - Follow "Wine Time with Peggy" Podcast: https://wine-time-peggy.podbean.com/

In this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Henry Biernacki—world traveler, airline captain, author, and humanitarian who explored over 179 countries and territories, and believed deeply that “travel is the best education you can get.”

Joining us is his mother, Sindy Biernacki, who shares heartfelt stories about Henry’s adventures, his passion for cultural connection, and his commitment to making a difference—especially through supporting girls’ education in Africa.

In his memory, Sindy founded The Steppes of Henry Foundation, continuing his mission to empower young women through education, opportunity, and hope.

This episode is especially meaningful around Cinco de Mayo—honoring Henry’s love of Mexico—and African World Heritage Day, reflecting his lasting impact through education and humanitarian efforts in Africa.

🎙️ In this episode, you’ll discover: Henry’s global travel adventures and philosophy The mission and impact of The Steppes of Henry Foundation Why educating girls in Africa creates lasting change How travel fosters empathy, understanding, and purpose Henry’s journey overcoming learning challenges

📚 Books by Henry Biernacki: https://theglobalhenry.org/books/ No More Heroes The Steppe A Steppe Away

🌍 Explore Henry’s story, books, travel photos & foundation: https://theglobalhenry.org/

🎥 Watch Videos: - Henry Biernacki's Travel Philosophy: https://youtu.be/214_yWmtIyU?si=TfeHkPTnzVS1aIcf - A Steppe Away Overview: https://youtu.be/YM52JQzcUAs?si=OREe6aJR9o01s4ZW - Remembering Henry Biernacki Playlist (Big Blend Media): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkMKSIzdC1BVSX1nB9x57ZhGmy3SUM6oh

Celebrate National Renewal Day with this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Quality of Life" Show, where we’re joined by counselor, journalist, and debut memoirist Laurie Collister to discuss her powerful new book, "A Different Kind of Vow: Rewriting My Happily Ever After."

Through humor, honesty, and deep reflection, Laurie shares how surviving a house fire that spared her lifelong journals led her to reexamine her path—and ultimately redefine success, purpose, and identity. From choosing not to follow traditional expectations of marriage and motherhood to embracing spiritual exploration and self-discovery, her journey offers a fresh perspective on what it means to live authentically.

In this conversation, we explore the healing power of journaling, memoir writing as a tool for growth, and how to uncover your own “sacred vow”—a personal sense of purpose that guides your life.

🔗 Learn more: https://lauriecollister.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio spotlights "Big Daily Blend" cohost and award-winning singer-songwriter Johnny Schaefer @hearjohnny based in Southern California, in a special “Getting to Know You” conversation.

In this inspiring and personal interview, Johnny shares his musical journey, creative influences, and the deeper purpose behind his songwriting. From emotional storytelling to the power of connection, he reflects on how music can heal, uplift, and bring people together in meaningful ways.

The conversation dives into authenticity in performance, navigating the music industry, and the importance of staying true to your voice as an artist. Along the way, Johnny opens up about his inspirations, life lessons, creative process, and even a few fun personal insights—making this episode both heartfelt and engaging.

Read Johnny’s “Music Insider” Editorial Q&A: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/getting-to-know-johnny-schaefer Listen to Johnny on Big Blend Radio: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/meet-the-experts-johnny-schaefer Keep up with Johnny: https://hearjohnny.com/ Join Johnny’s Gratitude Club (Facebook Group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/gratefulones

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks" Show, Joey Stuckey celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month by diving into the vibrant world of jazz, exploring its rich cultural roots, diverse styles, and the improvisational spirit that defines this uniquely American art form.

From swing and bebop to fusion, Latin jazz, and beyond, Joey shares insights into how jazz evolved through cultural exchange and musical innovation. He discusses the importance of improvisation, the role of dissonance and expression, and how jazz reflects the blending of traditions that shape American music.

This engaging conversation also highlights jazz as both an intellectual and emotional experience—one that invites listeners to explore sound, structure, and storytelling in new ways. Whether you're new to jazz or a longtime fan, this episode celebrates the genre’s depth, freedom, and enduring influence.

🎧 Spotify Playlist – All That Jazz: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1NSjJwCe9AgtcjR2BhFxz3?si=12a88d18f414460a

🎸 Joey Stuckey is Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador, an award-winning blind guitarist, producer, and owner of Shadow Sound Studio. His passion for music education and storytelling shines through every episode. Learn more: https://www.joeystuckey.com/