In celebration of National Fortune Cookie Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio explores the vibrant culture, cuisine, and heritage of Chinatowns around the world. From Singapore to San Francisco to Boston, discover how these neighborhoods serve as gateways to rich cultural traditions and unforgettable culinary experiences.

Featured guests include: 🍜 Jeffrey Spear – Branding expert, food/travel writer, and author of My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure, which shares his personal and flavorful journey through the world of food. Learn more at: https://spearwrites.com

🌏 Clifford Garstang – Award-winning author, world traveler, and writer of the new novel The Last Bird of Paradise, which explores themes of identity, history, and cultural connection. More at: https://cliffordgarstang.com

Together, they share insights into the evolution of Chinese cuisine in America, the importance of festivals like Chinese New Year, and the fascinating (and very American) origin of the fortune cookie. It’s a lively and delicious conversation that celebrates cultural diversity, storytelling, and the power of food to bring people together.

Join us for a delightful "Happy Hour Hang Out" on Big Blend Radio as we celebrate National Picnic Month and Parks & Recreation Month! This engaging episode explores the pure joy of picnicking, the profound benefits of connecting with nature, and our favorite spots and foods for an outdoor feast from Arizona to England.

We dive into the calming practice of forest bathing, the therapeutic power of nature's sounds, and the breathtaking beauty of Arizona's diverse landscapes, from vibrant wildflower seasons to dramatic monsoon experiences. Discover how nature can positively impact mental health and the simple pleasure of sharing picnics with loved ones, whether in your local park or while traveling the world.

Featured Guests: * Judy Karnia – Travel writer and forest bathing guide. Learn more at https://travelingnature.com/ * Eva Eldridge – Traveler, writer, editor, and book publishing expert. Discover more at https://evaeldridge.com/

This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Eat, Drink & Be Merry,” and “Parks & Travel” podcasts. Explore our network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Scott Kendall shares highlights from his journey through Reims, the heart of France’s Champagne region. From visiting historic champagne houses and attending educational tastings to savoring an unforgettable meal at the Michelin-starred Arbane Restaurant, Scott talks about the region’s rich history, its unique winemaking traditions, and the value of cultural connections while traveling.

Scott Kendall is a Texas-based travel writer, photographer, and videographer. He’s the editor of PlayStayEat.com and has been published in EuropeUpClose, Epicurean Traveler, Food Wine Travel Magazine, and more. Visit his site: https://playstayeat.com

- Read Scott’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/reims-fabulous-champagne-houses-and-dining-at-michelin-starred-arbane-restaurant/ - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org - Subscribe to the show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com - Explore more Big Blend shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

From backyard BBQs to sunny picnics, this fun and flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Wine Time with Peggy” podcast celebrates all things summer wine and food. Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery, shares delicious seasonal wine and food pairing ideas, vineyard updates, and tips for entertaining during the warmer months.

Tune in for: - Summer wine pairings & food ideas - Cooking with wine: marinating, braising & more - Tips for sipping in the heat - Creative drink ideas for summer parties - The importance of buying local wine & produce

🍷 Don’t miss Peggy’s delicious Loaded Hummus Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/peggys-loaded-hummus/

🍇 Learn more about LDV Winery: https://ldvwinery.com

🎧 Follow “Wine Time with Peggy” on Podbean: https://wine-time-peggy.podbean.com/

This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s Eat, Drink & Be Merry and Big Daily Blend channels. Discover more at: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this fun and informative episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie” Podcast, Dr. Jacqueline Eubany—board-certified cardiologist and author of “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story”—shares what she eats during a typical workday, on weekends, while traveling, and when dining out.

The conversation covers practical tips for meal planning, managing a busy schedule, consulting with nutritionists, understanding cholesterol, and the importance of exercise. Dr. Jackie also talks about finding joy in food, even while staying heart-healthy, and how indulging in moderation can support long-term wellness.

📘 Learn more about her book: https://womenandheartdiseasebook.com/ 🔔 New episodes air every 2nd Wednesday! Subscribe: https://hearthealthyliving-drjackie.podbean.com/ 🎧 Also featured on Big Blend’s “Quality of Life” & “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

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

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this fun and flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Show" with host Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” Special guest Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce joins the show to talk about seasonal produce, healthy snacks, and gourmet goodies perfect for a memorable summer picnic.

In this lively conversation, Linda and Robert share their dream picnic companions and destinations, essential food ideas, and healthy snack options. They explore creative recipes, dessert ideas to sweeten your spread, and fun picnic themes to take your gathering to the next level. Plus, hear about the latest trends in summer produce and the importance of clean picnicking practices.

🔗 Read Linda’s article: “The Ultimate Summer Picnic” https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-ultimate-summer-picnic/

🔗 Listen to Linda Kissam’s travel and food adventures on Big Blend Radio: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/

🔗 Follow Diva Linda’s blog and adventures: https://allingoodtaste.info/

🔗 This episode is also featured on Big Blend’s "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels.Explore more shows on Big Blend Radio’s Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In celebration of National Candy Month, this sweet episode of Big Blend Radio's "Peanut Patch" Podcast with Donna George dives into the nostalgic charm of The Peanut Patch and explores how candy-making continues to evolve in creative and surprising ways.

Learn how freeze-dried candy is not only a great option for outdoor adventures but also a lighter, softer treat for movie nights and folks with dental concerns. You'll also discover how Medjool dates—known as “Nature’s Candy”—make a naturally sweet, sugar-free alternative. The Peanut Patch even carries a variety of sugar-free candies, making sure there’s something for everyone.

Located in Yuma, Arizona, The Peanut Patch - open October-April - is an iconic Southwest destination known for farm-fresh peanuts, homemade peanut brittle, and irresistible treats. From traditional favorites to innovative candy-making techniques shaping the future, this family-run business continues to delight generations of sweet-toothed travelers, especially those hitting the road in search of nostalgic, local flavor.

🛒 Shop year-round: https://thepeanutpatch.com/

🍽️ Get inspired in the kitchen with Donna’s recipes: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing-category/donna-george/

🎧 Listen and follow the podcast (new episodes every 1st Friday): https://peanut-patch.podbean.com/

📲 Subscribe to the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork