Way Back When

Historic Fredericksburg, Virginia: George Washington’s Roots, Civil War History & Women's History

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer and author Kathleen Walls explores the rich heritage of Fredericksburg, Virginia—making this the perfect conversation as America approaches its 250th anniversary and during Women’s History Month in March.
Located along the Rappahannock River between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Fredericksburg is filled with stories that shaped early America. Kathleen shares insights into the area’s deep connections to George Washington, including his childhood at nearby George Washington's Ferry Farm.
The discussion also highlights the legacy of Mary Ball Washington, George Washington’s mother, whose home and memorial in Fredericksburg offer important perspectives on women’s roles in early American history.
You'll also hear about Fredericksburg’s role in the American Civil War, including fascinating sites like the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, where visitors can discover 18th-century medicine and the story of Revolutionary War hero Hugh Mercer.
Along the way, Kathleen busts historical myths (including the truth about Washington’s famous “wooden teeth”) and shares practical travel tips for exploring Fredericksburg today—from trolley tours and museums to historic homes and heritage sites that bring America’s past vividly to life.
Whether you're planning a heritage road trip, celebrating America’s 250th, or looking to experience history where it happened, Fredericksburg offers a powerful journey into the people, places, and stories that shaped the nation.
LINKS & RESOURCES* Read Kathleen's Article on Fredericksburg: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/historic-fredericksburg-virginia 
* Plan your Visit to Fredericksburg: https://fxbg.com/ 
* Keep up with Kathleen's Travels: https://www.americanroads.net/ 
* Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 
* Follow this Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 
* Check out the new Big Blend Radio “Travel Food & Wine” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 

Exploring Kyoto: Japan’s Cultural Heart

In this  shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, travel writers Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough journey to Kyoto, Japan, a destination widely regarded as the cultural heart of the country. Known for its historic temples, shrines, castles, and timeless traditions, Kyoto offers travelers a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern life.
Joelle and Ryan share insights from their experiences exploring Kyoto’s spiritual sites, learning about geisha traditions, and savoring local cuisine, including sake and Japanese whiskey. Along the way, they discuss the importance of etiquette, cultural respect, and open-minded curiosity when traveling in Japan.
From culinary discoveries to historical landmarks and meaningful cultural encounters, this episode highlights how immersive travel can deepen understanding and appreciation for one of the world’s most culturally rich destinations.
📝 Read their featured article: https://bigblendwandererscompass.substack.com/p/kyoto  
🌐 Follow Ryan & Joelle’s adventures:https://www.wandererscompass.com/ 
🎧 Listen to the Wanderers Compass podcast: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ 
📖 Explore the Big Blend Radio Wanderers Compass Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/WANDERERS-COMPASS-MAG-2026/#p=1 

Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum: Preserving History in New Smyrna Beach

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark explores the powerful stories preserved at the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.
This special episode celebrates the second anniversary of the "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast and also recognizes Women's History Month, highlighting the importance of community storytelling and the role women play in preserving cultural heritage.
Founded in 1768, New Smyrna Beach is one of Florida’s oldest cities. Walking along the quiet residential streets, visitors might easily pass a small white church on North Duss Street. Yet inside the historic Sacred Heart/St. Rita Church is something extraordinary—a living archive of African American history in coastal Volusia County.
Through photographs, artifacts, oral histories, and community voices, the museum shares stories of resilience, culture, and community leadership. This episode also explores the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the renowned Florida Highwaymen artists, and the power of genealogy and local storytelling in preserving history for future generations.
Be sure to watch Jo’s social media channels for the upcoming launch of her new digital podcast magazine, "Have Glass Will Travel," which will feature travel stories, articles, and highlights from the "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast.
🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES- Learn more about the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museumhttps://www.blackheritage.org/ 
- Read Jo's article: https://mainlymuseums.com/post/1421/mary-s-harrell-black-heritage-museum-preserving-history-in-new-smyrna-beach/ 
- Watch the New Smyrna Beach travel episode on YouTubehttps://youtu.be/egIxyOk8o7M?si=TpO56JJBgyT301j4 
- Read Jo’s New Smyrna Beach travel article https://recipestravelculture.com/new-smyrna-beach-endless-salty-sunshine/ 
- Follow Jo Clark:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/ 
- New episodes air every 2nd Sunday: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/ 

Trailing of the Sheep Festival: 30 Years of Idaho Heritage & Sun Valley Charm

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us to Ketchum, home of the beloved Trailing of the Sheep Festival.
The conversation explores the deep-rooted history of sheep herding in Idaho and how this iconic festival celebrates ranching heritage, Basque culture, folk traditions, and the enduring importance of sheep and wool in the region. Sharon shares highlights from the festival’s parades, cultural events, and food experiences, along with insider tips on dining, shopping, and exploring Ketchum’s scenic mountain setting.
Hear about outdoor adventures, hiking opportunities, and the town’s rich literary and cultural connections—including its ties to Ernest Hemingway—making Ketchum a rewarding destination well beyond festival weekend.
🐑 Learn more about the festival and plan your visit:https://trailingofthesheep.org/ 
📖 Read Sharon's Article on Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/trailing-of-the-sheep-festival 
📖 Check out Sharon's new Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1 
🌍 Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz:https://sharonkkurtz.com 
🎙️ Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST:https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com 
🎧 This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s Wander the World with Sharon, Vacation Station, Way Back When, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Find Your West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Podcast, we explore the spirit, stories, and evolving legacy of the American West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
Host Terri Guthrie talks with Seth Spillman about how “The Cowboy” preserves and redefines Western storytelling through art, artifacts, Native American history, rodeo culture, ranching traditions, and immersive experiences that bring the West to life.
A major highlight is the groundbreaking new installation, “The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey,” a 360-degree cinematic experience that surrounds visitors with sweeping landscapes, historic imagery, and original music — placing them inside the story of the American West.
Hear the Museum’s newest exhibition, “Route 66: From Trails to Truck Stops,” that celebrates the 100th anniversary of America’s most beloved highway. The exhibit explores Route 66’s deep ties to Western migration, cowboy culture, and Oklahoma’s pivotal role along the Mother Road.
From Native American dwellings and interactive exhibits to pop culture influences like classic Western films and modern icons, this episode celebrates the grit, resilience, artistry, and diversity that define the West — past, present, and future.
🔗 Plan your visit: https://nationalcowboymuseum.org/ 🔗  Follow Terri’s adventures: https://travelwithterri.net/ 🔗 New episodes air every other Tuesday – Listen: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 

Find Your Heart on the Jefferson Highway in Greenville, Texas: Part One - The Hero & The Heritage

Welcome to Part One of our special 4-Part series: "Find Your Heart in Greenville, Texas." The historic Jefferson Highway is a 115-year-old international treasure, stretching from the pines of Winnipeg to the palms of New Orleans. Today, we anchor in Northeast Texas to explore why Greenville is the ultimate "Homebase" for your Texas Jefferson Highway adventure.
We’re driving through the historic Blackland cotton fields, visiting the "Highway Sisters" of Bonham and Denison, and diving deep into the soul of the region at the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum. Our guest, Susan Lanning, shares the incredible legacy of one of America’s most decorated soldiers and the "White Gold" industry that built this community.
In This Episode:* The Homebase: Why the Comfort Suites is the perfect base for your trip.* The Drive: Navigating the history of the Blackland Prairie and the stunning Bonham courthouse.* The Legend: Susan Lanning on Audie Murphy and the American Cotton Museum.* Mascot Update: Priscilla the Sock Monkey and Stinky the Donkey hit the road!
Resources & Links:* Greenville Tourism: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/  * The Museum: https://cottonmuseum.com/  * The Route: https://jeffersonhighway.org/  * Plan Your Texas Trip: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/travel-directory/texas * Stay Updated: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/ 

Exploring Easter Island Culture, Legend & the Mysteries of the Moai

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 

The Descendant: Linda Stasi Reveals a Hidden Italian American Saga

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, award-winning journalist and bestselling author Linda Stasi discusses her powerful new historical novel The Descendant, arriving March 10, 2026 and available now for pre-order.
Inspired by real family history, the book uncovers a sweeping Italian immigrant saga that stretches from Sicily to the coal mines and ranchlands of the American West. Linda shares how deep journalistic research led her to shocking discoveries about labor exploitation, early Mafia networks, and the overlooked role of immigrant women in shaping the West.
The conversation explores the tragic legacy of the Ludlow Massacre, the roots of cultural stereotypes, and why stories of resilience and reinvention still matter today. From rebellious cowgirls to bootlegging empires, The Descendant challenges the myth of the “John Wayne West” and re-centers the multicultural reality of American history.
📘 The Descendant releases March 10, 2026 — pre-order your copy now.🔗 Learn more about Linda Stasi: https://lindastasi.com 
📰 Read our complete review on Substack:https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/the-descendant