Way Back When

Natchez, Mississippi: Adventures in History, Culture & Cuisine

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the timeless beauty, layered history, and Southern charm of Natchez, one of the oldest settlements along the mighty Mississippi River. From elegant antebellum homes and historic landmarks to river cruises, live music, and memorable culinary experiences, Natchez offers travelers a rich blend of culture and hospitality.
Lisa shares stories about the city’s Indigenous heritage, architectural treasures, and pivotal role in early American history, including visits to historic sites like Ellicott's Hill and nearby plantation properties that help tell the complex story of the region’s past. The episode also highlights local museums, Southern cuisine, and the charm of staying at historic inns like the Devereaux Shields House.
Whether you're interested in heritage travel, Mississippi River culture, music history, or classic Southern hospitality, Natchez is a destination filled with unforgettable experiences—and a meaningful stop for travelers exploring America’s history ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday.
READ LISA'S NATCHEZ TRAVEL ARTICLES:- Discover Beautiful Natchez, Mississippi: https://playstayeat.com/2023/02/01/discover-beautiful-natchez-mississippi/ - Natchez, MS Restaurants Guide: lhttps://www.foodieflashpacker.com/natchez-ms-restaurants/ - Natchez Mississippi: History, Antebellum Homes & Southern Hospitality:https://writerlisa.com/2025/10/03/natchez-mississippi-history-antebellum-homes-southern-hospitality/ 
LISA EVANS is a travel writer and photographer, travel advisor, and author of "100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die."  More at:- https://writerlisa.com/    - https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travelsoothesthesoul - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisae_travel 
FOLLOW JOURNEY JUKEBOX🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 📖 Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 6pm CST: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 

Discover America’s Heartland: Historic Jefferson Highway & Route 66

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the rich history, culture, and enduring appeal of two of America’s iconic roadways — the Jefferson Highway and Route 66.
As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Their featured guest is Jeremy Morris, President of the Route 66 Association of Missouri and owner of The Parsonage at Red Oak II.
From historic sites and roadside attractions to outlaws, musicians, and local legends, this engaging conversation highlights the unique stories that define travel along these legendary routes. Learn how small businesses, community pride, and preservation efforts keep the spirit of Americana alive, while also learning about upcoming centennial celebrations and special events in places like Joplin, Missouri.
You will also hear about the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, and why this event is a must for history enthusiasts, road trippers, and anyone passionate about preserving and exploring America’s historic highways.
Whether you're drawn to the scenic beauty of the Ozarks, intrigued by haunted highways and historic buildings, or inspired by the people you meet along the way, this episode celebrates the timeless experience of road tripping through America’s heartland.
Learn more about Route 66 in Missouri:https://www.missouri66.org/ 
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/ 
Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide:https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 
Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday. Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

Castle Hunting in Southern Wales - Travel Tips, History & Hidden Gems

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writers Ryan Slough and Joelle Machia, founders of WanderersCompass.com, share their unforgettable adventure exploring more castles across Southern Wales.
From dramatic ruins perched on cliffs to well-preserved fortresses steeped in centuries of history, Ryan and Joelle dive into the cultural and historical significance of Welsh castles. Along the way, they uncover layers of history shaped by Roman influence, medieval conflicts, and evolving Welsh identity.
The conversation also highlights practical travel tips for exploring Wales and the UK, including the benefits of off-season travel, taking scenic detours, and navigating the countryside by car. Hear about standout sites like Raglan Castle, along with insights into the English Heritage Pass that makes visiting multiple castles more affordable.
Beyond castles, the episode touches on the charm of the Welsh people, the beautiful landscapes, local cuisine, and vibrant cities like Cardiff, offering a well-rounded look at what makes Wales a must-visit destination.
Whether you're a history buff, photography enthusiast, or curious traveler, this episode is packed with inspiration for discovering Wales—one castle at a time. 
🌐 EXPLORE MORE WITH RYAN & JOELLE:- Blog: https://www.wandererscompass.com/ - Podcast: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/ - Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/WANDERERS-COMPASS-MAG-2026/#p=1 
🌐MORE ABOUT IFWTWA:- Website: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ - This Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ - Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 

Beyond Bora Bora: Journey Through the Heart of French Polynesia

Join travel writer Terri Guthrie on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" show as she uncovers the deep cultural roots, fusion flavors, and sacred landscapes of French Polynesia. 
From the bustling energy of Papeete to the spiritual "cradle" of Raiatea, this episode follows Terri's unique itinerary designed to show you the true soul of the islands. 
Explore the fascinating history of the "Mutiny on the Bounty" with a descendant of Charles Nordhoff, dive into the world-renowned black pearl industry in Moorea, and taste the unique Tahitian-French-Chinese fusion that defines the local "snack" culture.
 Whether it’s hitching a ride on a school boat or visiting a UNESCO World Heritage site, discover why the real magic of Tahiti lies in its people, its heritage, and its untamed beauty.
Featured Guests & Tours:- Tahiti Nui: Marie-Jeanne Nordhoff-Faatoma (Nordhoff Adventure)- Moorea: Heimata Hall (Tahiti Food Tours)- Black Pearl Expert: Hinaneu Ceran-Jerusalemy (Heivai Black Pearls)- Tahiti Iti: Tau Faraire (Teahupoo Adventure Tours)- Raiatea: Tera Penny (Van Bass Tours)
Resources & Links:- Listen to the Part One Interview: https://youtu.be/7asLkcOJaeI - Official Tahiti Tourism: https://www.tahititourisme.com/ - Follow Terri’s adventures: https://travelwithterri.net/ - Listen to the Podcast: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 

Trailblazers: Five Women Who Changed England

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "English Connection" Show, historian, tour guide, and Norfolk Tours owner Glynn Burrows explores the lives and legacies of remarkable women who helped shape England and the world. 
From beloved authors Jane Austen and Beatrix Potter to social reformer Elizabeth Fry, nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale, and suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst, this inspiring conversation highlights the lasting impact of women’s contributions to society, culture, and human rights.
Discover how these trailblazing women influenced everything from land conservation and responsible tourism to prison reform, healthcare, and the fight for women’s voting rights. Along the way, Glynn shares insights into the historic places connected to their stories, offering meaningful ways travelers can engage with England’s rich heritage through a deeper understanding of its past.
🔗 Read Glynn’s article: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/women-who-changed-england  🌐 Visit the English Connection website for more about Glynn's custom tours, family history services, and to follow the podcast and his digital magazine: https://www.EnglishConnection.uk 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Way Back When, Big Daily Blend, Vacation Station, and Women Making History  podcast channels: Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Jefferson Highway & Route 66: Crossroads of American History

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show features Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, who shares insights on the connections between the historic Jefferson Highway and Route 66, along with a glimpse of the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Conference in Joplin, Missouri.
As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith.
From early 20th-century road development to modern-day road trip adventures, this conversation explores how these iconic highways helped shape American travel, culture, and tourism. Roger highlights Joplin’s role as a historic crossroads, discusses the evolution of highway systems, and shares why every community along these routes has a unique story to tell.
Hear about the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, and why this event is a must for history enthusiasts, road trippers, and anyone passionate about preserving America’s historic highways.
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/ 
Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide website:https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.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 

Unveiling Las Vegas: Neon Museum Stories & Vintage Vegas History

Discover the dazzling history of Las Vegas through its iconic neon lights on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Road Trip Radio” Podcast. Travel writer Debbie Stone shares fascinating insights from her visit to the Neon Museum— home to the famous Neon Boneyard and a remarkable collection of restored and preserved signs that tell the story of the city’s vibrant past.
From legendary hotels like the Flamingo Las Vegas and El Cortez Hotel and Casino to the cultural significance of neon as an art form, this episode explores how Las Vegas evolved from a desert stopover into an entertainment capital. Debbie also highlights preservation efforts that keep the city’s glowing history alive for future generations.
🎧 Read Debbie’s article: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/the-neon-museum 
🔗 Plan your visit to the Neon Museum: https://www.neonmuseum.org 
🎙️ Listen to Debbie’s Big Blend Radio “Global Adventures” Podcast: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
📰 Explore Debbie's Big Blend Radio "Global Adventures" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/#p=1 

Historic Detroit Mansions and the Women Behind Them

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" Podcast with travel writer Lisa Evans explores the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Detroit, spotlighting two extraordinary estates—Cranbrook Educational Community and Meadow Brook Hall.
Celebrating Women’s History Month and looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday, this episode highlights the powerful legacy of Matilda Dodge Wilson, whose vision and philanthropy helped shape Meadow Brook Hall and left a lasting impact on the region.
Beyond the mansions, the conversation dives into Detroit’s dynamic story—from the rise of the automotive industry to the global influence of Motown Records and modern creative voices like Jack White. Discover how innovation, artistry, and resilience intersect in this iconic American city.
Whether you're planning a heritage trip, exploring architectural landmarks, or seeking destinations that honor the nation’s history, Detroit offers a compelling journey into America’s past, present, and future.
Lisa's Detroit Articles* Cranbrook: A Place Made by Hand: https://fwtmagazine.com/cranbrook-a-place-made-by-hand/ * The Woman Behind the Walls of Meadow Brook Hall: https://fwtmagazine.com/the-woman-behind-the-walls-of-meadow-brook-hall/ 
Detroit Travel Resources* Cranbrook: https://www.cranbrook.edu/ * Meadow Brook Hall: https://meadowbrookhall.org/ * Detroit Institute of Arts: https://dia.org/ * The Henry Ford: https://www.thehenryford.org/ 
🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 
📖 NEW: Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1