Way Back When

Córdoba Unveiled: A Journey Through Spain's Historic Jewel

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures" Podcast, travel writer Debbie Stone explores the captivating city of Córdoba, Spain, where centuries of Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences have created one of Europe's most fascinating cultural landscapes.
A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Córdoba invites visitors to wander its winding historic streets, discover architectural masterpieces, and uncover stories that span more than two thousand years. Debbie shares highlights from her journey, including the awe-inspiring Mezquita-Catedral, one of the world's most remarkable examples of Islamic and Christian architecture, and the historic Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a fortress that played a significant role in Spanish history.
The conversation also delves into Córdoba's celebrated traditions, from colorful festivals and lively plazas to the elegance of the famed Andalusian horses, whose performances reflect the region's enduring cultural heritage.
Whether you're drawn to history, architecture, or immersive cultural experiences, this episode reveals why Córdoba remains one of Spain's most extraordinary destinations.
📖 Read Debbie's article:https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/cordoba-spain 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
📚 Explore Debbie's Global Adventures Digital Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/ 

Women Spies of WWII: Author Pam Webber on Espionage & the Miracle of Massawa

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, bestselling and award-winning historical fiction author Pam Webber discusses her new novel, "Massawa: A Tale of Illusion, Espionage, and Love," the first book in a new World War II series inspired by the little-known "Miracle of Massawa" in Eritrea, North Africa.
Set in 1942 during the height of World War II, the novel follows fledgling OSS agent Kit Thomas as she embarks on her first mission to investigate the theft of military payroll funds and uncover a dangerous conspiracy threatening Allied operations in the Red Sea region. Along the way, readers encounter espionage, deception, romance, wartime intrigue, and the remarkable story of the women who served as spies during WWII.
In this fascinating conversation, Pam shares the real history behind the novel, including the role of the OSS—the precursor to the CIA—how women were recruited into intelligence work, the influence of MI6 on American spy training, and the strategic importance of North Africa in the Allied war effort. She also discusses her extensive research, from declassified documents to personal letters, and how she created her courageous protagonist, Kit Thomas.
Learn more about Pam Webber and her books at https://www.pamwebber.com 
Visit Big Blend's new home: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

Like Snow Before Sun: Author Marianne Rabalais Sulser on Cajun and Acadian Heritage

Big Blend Radio's "Books & Authors Show" with Books Forward welcomes debut novelist Marianne Rabalais Sulser, whose historical novel "Like Snow Before Sun" is out now through Atmosphere Press. 
Born and raised in central Louisiana and now based in Colorado, Marianne takes us deep into the world of 1750s Nova Scotia and the tragic history of the Acadian expulsion — a story she discovered through her own ancestral research.
Marianne shares how tracing her family roots led her to an unexpected and beautiful connection to the Mi'kmaq nation, and how that discovery inspired a novel that is as much about trust, survival, and identity as it is about history. We talk about the difference between Cajun and French Creole culture, the relationship between the Acadians and indigenous nations before the British arrived, the real historical figures who inspired her characters, and why this largely unfictionalized chapter of North American history feels especially timely right now.
Plus — what dish best represents the novel? The answer involves fish. And pork. Because Louisiana.
Visit https://www.mariannesulser.com and find "Like Snow Before Sun" wherever books are sold. 

Grapevine Vintage Railroad: A Timeless Texas Train Adventure

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Show, travel writer Terri Guthrie shares her memorable Mother's Day journey aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, one of North Texas' most beloved heritage attractions.
Traveling along the historic Cotton Belt Route from Grapevine to the Fort Worth Stockyards, Terri explores how this vintage rail experience connects visitors with Texas history, Western heritage, and the golden age of train travel. From restored Victorian-era coaches and historic locomotives to the famous Fort Worth Stockyards, Longhorn cattle drives, and Grapevine's charming historic district, this excursion offers a unique blend of nostalgia, culture, and family fun.
The conversation also highlights Grapevine's year-round special event trains, including wine trains, holiday excursions, family adventures, and seasonal celebrations, while exploring the growing popularity of heritage rail travel across America.
Whether you're a train enthusiast, history buff, Texas traveler, or simply looking for a memorable day trip, this episode showcases one of the Lone Star State's most authentic travel experiences.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE:https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/gvrr/ 
FOLLOW TERRI'S ADVENTURES:https://www.travelwithterri.com/ 

Must-Experience Cultural Activities in Buenos Aires

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures" Podcast, travel writer Debbie Stone shares her immersive experiences exploring the vibrant culture, cuisine, music, and history of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
From hands-on cooking classes featuring traditional empanadas and Argentine specialties to passionate tango performances, Debbie highlights the sights, sounds, and flavors that make Buenos Aires one of South America’s most captivating cities. The conversation also explores iconic landmarks like the world-renowned Teatro Colón and the colorful neighborhood of Caminito, along with the city’s European-inspired architecture, thriving arts scene, and celebrated wine culture.
Discover how food, dance, and storytelling intertwine to create an unforgettable cultural experience, while also gaining inspiration for exploring more of Argentina’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
🧩 Explore all 4 of Debbie’s Buenos Aires articles and enjoy a jigsaw puzzle of Caminito's colorful murals:  https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/colorful-murals-of-caminito-jigsaw-puzzle 
FOLLOW DEBBIE'S ADVENTURES including her podcast, digital travel magazine, and more: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/debbie-stone-travel-writer 

Author Margaret Whitford: War, Family History & Resilience

This Memorial Day weekend episode of Big Blend Radio features author Margaret Whitford who discusses her powerful new memoir, "The History We Carry, A Daughter's Memoir," releasing June 2, 2026 through She Writes Press.
In this moving conversation, Margaret reflects on the emotional legacy of war, family estrangement, inherited trauma, and the healing power of storytelling. As families across America honor loved ones on Memorial Day, this episode explores how the devastation of World War II continues to ripple through generations, shaping identity, relationships, and emotional well-being.
Margaret shares how her mother’s experiences—including war, violence, and trauma—created emotional distance within their relationship, and how writing this memoir became a path toward compassion, understanding, and healing. The conversation also explores PTSD, epigenetics, silence within families, resilience, and the importance of telling our stories.
Pre-order and learn more about Margaret Whitford and "The History We Carry" at https://margaretwhitford.com/books/the-history-we-carry/  

Touring the Historic Battlefields and Skirmish Sites of Britain

As we honor and remember the fallen this Memorial Day weekend, we look at how the quiet, open landscapes of Britain hold the secrets to centuries of conflict, shifting power, and historical memory. From Roman invasions and Viking raids to the pivotal Norman Conquest of 1066, these spaces serve as a powerful link to our shared ancestry.
In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast, resident historian Glynn Burrows of Norfolk Tours explores the rich history of battle sites across England, Scotland, and Wales. Discover why so little remains visible on these open battlefields, how these sacred spaces are preserved today out of respect for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and why touring them offers a fantastic window into the details of local and national history. 
Whether you are tracking Roman forts along Hadrian's Wall or following Harold's hasty march from Stamford Bridge to Battle, Glynn shares expert travel tips and insights for mapping out your own historical itinerary.
Important Links:- Read Glynn's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/touring-battlefields-of-britain - Connect with Glynn: https://www.englishconnection.uk/ - Follow the Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-podcast - Check out the Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/english-connection-magazine 

Discovering Butler, Missouri: The Heart of Jefferson Highway History

Just in time for National Road Trip Day (May 22), this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the history, heritage tourism, and community spirit of Butler, Missouri, a vibrant destination along the historic Jefferson Highway.
As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Featured guests are Samantha Stump of the Butler Chamber of Commerce and Doris Fuller of the Butler Historic Preservation Commission.
From colorful murals and historic downtown sites to upcoming celebrations and classic car culture, this engaging conversation highlights how Butler is preserving its Jefferson Highway legacy while welcoming modern travelers and road trippers.
Learn about the upcoming Jefferson Highway Car Show in Butler on June 13, along with the community’s efforts to promote heritage tourism through storytelling, signage, preservation projects, and downtown revitalization. 
The episode also explores Butler’s fascinating history, including its recognition as the first city west of the Mississippi River to have electricity, its connection to Americana travel culture, and the importance of small-town experiences along America’s historic highways.
Roger Bell also shares updates on the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration taking place in Joplin, Missouri, from September 19–22, 2026, including details about the event’s sociability caravan motor tours. Registration is now open at https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
The discussion also highlights how communities along the Jefferson Highway continue to attract visitors through local events, murals, dining experiences, and authentic hospitality that celebrates the spirit of the open road.
The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
Learn more about Butler, Missouri:- Butler Chamber of Commerce:https://butlerchamber.com/ https://www.facebook.com/butlerchamberofcommerce 
Butler Historic Preservation Commission:- https://www.facebook.com/butlerhistoricpreservationcommission/ 
Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide:- https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 
Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch:- https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/ 
The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/