Way Back When

Discovering Corpus Christi: Coastal Adventures, Culture & Culinary Delights

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz explores the vibrant coastal city of Corpus Christi, Texas, where sun, sea, culture, and history come together.
From horseback riding on the beach and fishing along the coast to visiting the South Texas State Aquarium, Sharon shares firsthand experiences that showcase the city’s outdoor lifestyle and natural beauty. 
The conversation also dives into Corpus Christi’s rich cultural heritage, including the USS Lexington, Selena Museum and Memorial, and nearby King Ranch, one of Texas’ most iconic historic sites. Add in a thriving arts scene with mural trails and art walks, plus a delicious mix of seafood, barbecue, and local cuisine, and Corpus Christi emerges as a destination that rejuvenates the spirit year-round—especially during the quieter shoulder seasons.
* Plan your visit to Corpus Christi: https://www.visitcorpuschristi.com/ 
* Read Sharon’s “Corpus Christi” article on Substack: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/discovering-corpus-christi 
* Check out her new Big Blend "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 also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Parks & Travel," and "Way Back When" podcast channels:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Designing England: Architects and Architecture Through The Ages

From Roman forts and villas to Gothic cathedrals and the visionary works of architects like Inigo Jones, Sir Christopher Wren, and George Skipper, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast with Glynn Burrows explores the evolution of architecture in England and what it reveals about wealth, power, craftsmanship, and society.
Through a thoughtful conversation on design, functionality, and opulence, we examine how architectural styles reflected social status, how many builders and artisans went uncredited, and how architects eventually emerged as cultural figures shaping England’s landscape. The discussion also raises deeper questions about legacy, meaning, and how future architecture may move toward more sustainable and purposeful design.
Read Glynn’s full article: https://bigblendarts.substack.com/p/designing-england 
Learn more about Glynn & book a custom tour:Norfolk Tours: https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/ 
Listen to Glynn’s monthly podcast (airs every 4th Saturday):English Connection Podcast: https://english-connection.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts" and "Way Back When" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Captivating Catania: Experience a Unique Style of Sicilian Charm

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures" Podcast with travel writer Debbie Stone explores Catania, Sicily, a city defined by resilience, tradition, and a fascinating blend of beauty and grit.
Set in the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania’s story is shaped by volcanic eruptions, deep-rooted faith, and a strong sense of community. Debbie explores the cultural importance of Saint Agatha, the folklore surrounding the Elephant Fountain, and the city’s vibrant street food and market scene, including the must-try Pasta alla Norma. From underground ruins to UNESCO-recognized architecture, this episode reveals why Catania is one of Sicily’s most compelling destinations.
📖 Read Debbie’s story on Substack: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/captivating-catania 
📖 Check out the story and more in her new Global Adventures Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/ 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station" and "Way Back When" podcast channels.  Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

When Martians Were Real: Science, History & America’s Alien Craze

In this thought-provoking episode of Big Blend Radio, acclaimed author David Baron discusses his award-winning book, "The Martians: The True Story of an Alien Craze that Captured Turn-of-the-Century America."
Long before Martians became the stuff of science fiction, many Americans believed they might actually exist. David explores how late 19th- and early 20th-century scientists, astronomers, and the media became captivated by Mars—projecting utopian ideals, hope, and solutions to earthly problems onto the Red Planet during a period of rapid scientific advancement.
The conversation examines the quest to communicate with Martians, the evolving nature of scientific evidence, and the essential role imagination plays in discovery. From historic beliefs to current discoveries and future possibilities, this episode reveals how our fascination with Mars reflects something deeply human: the desire to explore, connect, and believe.
David Baron’s book The Martians has been widely recognized as a New Yorker Best Book of the Year, a TIME Must-Read Book of 2025, a New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice, and a Chicago Public Library Favorite Book of 2025.
🔗 Learn more about David Baron and his work: https://davidbaronauthor.com/ 
🔗 Explore the Big Blend Radio Network of Podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Justice and Comedy in Jamestown, New York

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Barbara Redding explores the unexpected dual legacy of Jamestown, New York—a town shaped by both global justice and iconic comedy.
The conversation highlights Jamestown native Robert H. Jackson, whose work as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice and chief prosecutor at the Nuremberg Trials helped establish international accountability for war crimes. Balancing this powerful history is Jamestown’s beloved connection to Lucille Ball, whose legacy lives on through the National Comedy Center and the town’s vibrant cultural scene.
From historic institutions like the Chautauqua Institute to local wineries and food experiences, Barbara shows how travel brings history, culture, and storytelling together in meaningful ways.
🌐 Read Barbara’s article, “Justice and Comedy: Jamestown, New York’s Surprising Dual Legacy,” on Big Blend’s "Vacation Station" Travel Substack:https://open.substack.com/pub/vacationstationtravel/p/justice-and-comedy  
🌐 Follow Barbara’s adventures: https://barbararedding.com/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org 🌐 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 
🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station,” “Toast to The Arts,” and “Way Back When” podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Discovering Flanders: A Journey Through History, Art & Culture

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Jillian Sliwinski of Visit Flanders takes listeners on a journey through Flanders, Belgium, a region rich in history, art, culture, and culinary traditions.
The conversation explores Flanders’ central role in European history, including its connections to World War I and World War II, and its remarkable artistic legacy as home to the Flemish Masters. Jillian also highlights a special traveling exhibition from the National Women in the Arts Museum in Washington, D.C., which celebrates the contributions of female artists and will be showcased in Ghent, giving visitors a unique opportunity to experience this extraordinary collection.
Listeners learn about Flanders’ compact size and efficient train system, making it easy to explore historic cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, national parks, and cultural landmarks. The episode also emphasizes slow living, quality of life, and culinary experiences, making Flanders ideal for multi-generational travel, art enthusiasts, and history lovers alike.
🌐 Learn more and plan your visit: http://www.visitflanders.com/ 🌐Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 🌐Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 
🎙️This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Toast to The Arts," "Way Back When," "Women Making History," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
Photo: Graslei, Ghent by Milo Profi, courtesy of Visit Flanders

This Ordinary Thing Film: Humanity, Courage & the Holocaust

Filmmaker Nick Davis joins Big Blend Radio to discuss his powerful new documentary, This Ordinary Thing, releasing December 5, 2025 (Cinema Village, NYC) with a theatrical roll out and VOD Release to follow on March 31, 2026.Blending performance, personal testimony, and historical narrative, This Ordinary Thing explores the profound acts of humanity that occurred during the Holocaust—ordinary people who risked everything to save the lives of strangers. Through the stories of rescuers and survivors, the film reveals the duality of human nature during one of history’s darkest moments, highlighting the courage, compassion, and moral clarity that emerged in the face of unimaginable brutality.
Nick Davis shares insights into his creative process, the emotional weight of telling these stories, and the remarkable cast of actors who bring these moments to life. The conversation reflects on trust, moral choices, and the critical importance of remembrance—making this episode especially timely for today’s world and a meaningful tie-in for the documentary’s release.
Visit: https://www.thisordinarything.com/  

Wandering Through Bavaria: A Train Adventure of History, Culture & Heritage

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wander the World with Sharon,” award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us on a captivating train journey through beautiful Bavaria.  Exploring at her own pace, Sharon visits historic cities, spa towns, wine regions, and cultural landmarks — all while reflecting on how travel deepens our understanding of history and broadens our connection to the world.
From Nuremberg’s profound World War II history to the wellness traditions of Bad Kissingen, the opulence of Bayreuth, the wine heritage of Würzburg, and the beer culture of Bamberg, Sharon reveals the many layers that make Bavaria such a rich and rewarding destination. Her journey also explores the medieval magic of Rothenburg, the region’s architectural treasures, and the importance of remembrance at historical sites. Whether traveling solo or with others, Sharon shows how exploring Bavaria by train offers unmatched flexibility, insight, and inspiration.
📝 Read Sharon’s “All Aboard Bavaria!” article in the all-new Big Blend Wander the World Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1 
🌍 Learn more about Sharon K. Kurtz and her global adventures: https://sharonkkurtz.com 
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station,  and Way Back When channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
📅 Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST:https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com