Way Back When

Exploring the Historic Mohawk Valley of Central New York

In celebration of National Rivers Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast features travel writer Lisa Evans, who takes us on a meaningful journey through the historic Mohawk Valley in Central New York.
From the region’s Indigenous heritage to its cultural and historical landmarks, Lisa highlights the Mohawk River’s significance in shaping communities and connecting the past with the present. The episode explores how the Erie Canal, taverns, churches, music, and food reflect the area’s deep and diverse history. Nature’s role in preserving heritage, and the emotional resonance of revisiting one’s roots, are central to this conversation.
🗺️ Read Lisa’s Full Article:👉 https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/exploring-the-historic-mohawk-valley-of-central-new-york/   
🎵 Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist:👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648 
📚 About Lisa Evans:Author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die🌐 https://writerlisa.com/ 🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans 
📅 New Episodes Air Every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST!🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 

Exploring Vicksburg, Mississippi: History, Culture & Culinary Delights

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Susan Lanier-Graham returns to share her recent experiences in historic Vicksburg, Mississippi. From the powerful stories behind the Civil War to the vibrant arts and culinary scenes, Susan highlights what makes this Southern city such a meaningful and engaging destination.
The conversation dives into the impact of the Civil War on Vicksburg, the importance of the Vicksburg National Military Park, and the city’s rich blend of history, culture, and modern charm.
📖 Read Susan’s article:“Vicksburg National Military Park & Beyond”👉 https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/vicksburg-national-military-park-and-beyond 
Susan Lanier-Graham is an experienced journalist, editor, storyteller, and author with a passion for purposeful travel and meaningful connection. Along with being the managing editor of an Arizona lifestyle publication, and an editor and contributor to Newsweek, Susan is the publisher and founder of Wander With Wonder: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/ 
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 
🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 
🎧 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Parks  & Travel," and "Way Back When" Channels. Check out our network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Whisky and History: Exploring Edinburgh Castle

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, co-hosts Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass Travel Blog, take us on an immersive journey through Edinburgh, Scotland—highlighting the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the magic of a traditional Scotch whisky tasting.
From the legendary Crown Jewels to swords, armor, and tales of military conquest, discover the castle’s pivotal role in Scottish history. Joelle and Ryan share personal stories from their travels, explore how the past is preserved through architecture and artifacts, and offer practical tips for visiting this historic landmark.
They also dive into the soul of Edinburgh, a city where ancient battlegrounds meet modern charm, and where whisky is more than a drink—it’s a cultural experience. Whether you're a history buff, whisky lover, or wanderlust-filled traveler, this episode brings the spirit of Scotland to life.
📝 Read their article: https://www.wandererscompass.com/edinburgh-castle-the-crown-of-edinburgh/ 
🌍 Follow Wanderers Compass: https://www.wandererscompass.com/ 
📅 New episodes every second Monday on Big Blend Radio: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ 
🎧 Also featured on “Vacation Station,” “Big Daily Blend,” “Eat, Drink & Be Merry,” and “Way Back When” podcast channels on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Bootleggers and Moonshiners of Kansas

Celebrate National Moonshine Day with this spirited episode of Big Blend Radio as we dive into the Moonshiner, Bootlegger, and Temperance history of Kansas. Featured guests include Kenneth J. Peak, author of Kansas Bootleggers and Kansas Temperance, and Phyllis Bitner, Chair of the Miners Hall Museum Foundation.
This fascinating conversation explores the complex world of moonshining and bootlegging in Southeast Kansas, shedding light on the cultural, economic, and social factors that fueled the underground liquor trade. Learn about the impact of the temperance movement, the roles played by immigrants and women, and how community survival sometimes depended on illegal alcohol production. Hear vivid stories of bootlegging techniques, organized crime, and the lasting effects of Prohibition on American society.
Listen now and get a taste of this unique slice of Kansas history!
🔗 Learn more:Kenneth J. Peak books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kenneth-J.-Peak/author/B001H6N8BO Miners Hall Museum: https://www.minershallmuseum.com/ 

Pensacola Part 2: Military Pride, Local Flavor & Coastal Culture

In Part 2 of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" podcast on Pensacola, Florida, travel writer Terri Guthrie continues her coastal journey by exploring the deep-rooted connection between military and civilian life in the Florida Panhandle. From the emotional stories behind military service to vibrant nightlife and historical landmarks, this episode dives into the heart and soul of Pensacola’s culture. 
🎙️ Hear about:- The powerful presence of the U.S. Navy, the Blue Angels, and the National Naval Aviation Museum- The emotional experiences and sacrifices tied to military families- The warmth of Southern hospitality in welcoming service members- Local favorites like the Bushwhacker cocktail and nightlife at Seville Quarter- Hidden gems like Fort Pickens, natural landscapes, and Pensacola’s claim as the first European settlement in the U.S.
📖 Catch up on Part 1 & read Terri’s article about Pensacola:https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/discover-pensacola-florida/ 
📅 NEW! “Travel with Terri” is now a WEEKLY podcast—tune in every Tuesday at 9 AM CT!🎧 Subscribe & follow here: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Parks & Travel and Vacation Station podcast channels.🎧 Full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Uncovering Family Roots: A Journey Through Ancestry

Celebrate National Family Month with this heartfelt and insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s Big Daily Blend podcast, where we dive into the rich and emotional world of genealogy and family history.
In this powerful conversation, our guests share personal stories of uncovering their roots, exploring the emotional impact of their discoveries, and the profound connections forged through understanding ancestry. From the complexities of adoption to the joys of discovering hidden family stories, this episode highlights the importance of storytelling, cultural heritage, and empathy in shaping our identities and navigating life.
Whether you’re new to genealogy or deep into your family history journey, this episode offers inspiration, support, and a sense of community.
🎙️ Featured Guests:* Johnny Schaefer - Award-winning singer/songwriter. https://hearjohnny.com/ * Glynn Burrows – Family history expert, Norfolk Tours UK. https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/ * Julie Ryan McGue – Author, memoirist, and speaker. https://juliemcgueauthor.com/ * Jo Clark – Travel writer & family history researcher. https://recipestravelculture.com/ &  https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ * Cherie Claire – Travel writer & author. https://www.cherieclaire.net/ * Kimberly Hess – Author & family history researcher. https://unexpectedlifeofsarahbcochran.com/ * Diane Dobry – Memoirist & travel writer. https://hungarianaquarian.com/ & https://gettinghungary.com/ 
🧬 Key Takeaways:- National Family Month emphasizes the importance of family bonds.- Genealogy research uncovers emotional and impactful family stories.- Writing and storytelling preserve family legacies.- Adoption stories reveal the complexity of identity and belonging.- Online and travel communities support family history research.- Exploring ancestry deepens cultural and personal understanding.- Diaries, documents, and travel can connect us to our past.- Empathy and acceptance are vital when reflecting on historical injustices.
🎧 Also featured on our Quality of Life and Way Back When shows.🔗 Explore More Big Blend Radio Podcasts:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Dobson Museum and Home in Miami, Oklahoma

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's JEFFERSON HIGHWAY Show, we chat with Jordan Boyd, Executive Director of the Dobson Museum and Home in Miami, Oklahoma — a must-visit destination located along both the historic Jefferson Highway and Route 66.
Discover how the Dobson Museum serves as a vibrant cultural hub, preserving the history of Ottawa County and honoring the vision of Nellie Dobson, who aimed to create a lasting memorial to her family and community. With original furnishings from the Dobson family, the museum provides an intimate glimpse into local heritage and daily life in early Oklahoma.
Jordan shares how the museum’s engaging youth programs like Dobson Discovery Days make history fun and interactive for children, and discusses the rotating exhibits that keep the community involved and informed. 
Whether you're a history buff, educator, traveler, or heritage tourism enthusiast, this episode offers meaningful insights into how local museums can shape future generations and foster pride in regional stories.
🎧 Listen now and plan your visit!
🔗 Dobson Museum and Home:http://www.dobsonmuseum.com 
🔗 Learn more about the Jefferson Highway Association:https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 
🎙️ Listen to the Historic Jefferson Highway Podcast:https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

Women's War Stories of Courage, Resilience and Sacrifice

In honor of Military Appreciation Month, this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Women Making History” podcast shines a spotlight on the untold and often overlooked stories of women in wartime —from espionage to frontline heroism.
Featured Guests:Glynn Burrows shares the legacies of nurse Edith Cavell and WWII’s Jeannie MacIntosh.🔗 https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/ 📖 https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/what-does-memorial-weekend-mean-to-you/ 
Jo Clark honors Belle W. Baruch—American pilot, equestrian, philanthropist, and coastal observer.🔗 https://recipestravelculture.com/ | https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ 📖 https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/belle-baruch-american-pilot-equestrian-and-spy/ 
Sharon K. Kurtz shares Harriet Tubman’s trailblazing role in leading a Union Army raid.🔗 https://sharonkkurtz.com/ 📖 https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/harriet-tubman-a-legacy-of-courage-and-compassion/ 
🕊️ Celebrate resilience, honor sacrifice, and amplify women's wartime history.