In celebration of National Arts & Humanities Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features Corey Schenck, co-founder of the progressive rock band PANGAEA. Corey talks about the band’s rich history, their creative evolution, and their long-awaited fourth album, “The Reckoning.”

Recorded over several years, The Reckoning captures the authenticity and collaborative spirit that define PANGAEA’s sound. Corey reflects on the group’s decades-long friendships, musical influences, and the revival of their shelved album after twenty years. The conversation also dives into how digital distribution and AI are reshaping the music landscape, the resurgence of vinyl culture, and the lasting impact of album art and live, acoustic performances.

📀 More About PANGAEA Formed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, PANGAEA’s story began like many bands — a group of friends with a shared dream. After three internationally recognized albums and a long hiatus, the band reunited two decades later to release Beowulf (2023) and now, finally, The Reckoning. Their music continues to resonate across generations of rock and prog fans worldwide.

🔗 Links & Resources: - PANGAEA Band: https://pangaea.band/ - Big Blend Radio Interview with Ron Poulson about Beowulf: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/pangaea-beowulf-album/ - Listen to more episodes on Toast The Arts: https://toast-the-arts.podbean.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast celebrates National Arts & Humanities Month with Queen Esther, who completed a National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artist residency at Gettysburg National Military Park in 2020.

Queen Esther reflects on her artistic journey, the emotional impact of her Gettysburg residency, and the themes of her upcoming album Blackbirding. The conversation delves into the historical significance of Gettysburg, the concept of blackbirding, and the power of art in preserving and conveying history. She emphasizes the resilience of the Black community and the importance of understanding the past to navigate the present and future.

The discussion also touches on the role of women in history and politics, spirituality in music, and the significance of artistic expression during challenging times.

🎵 The first single Hold Steady is available here: https://ffm.to/holdsteady

🎵 Pre-save or order the full album Blackbirding here: https://ffm.to/qeblackbirding

🌐 Learn more about Queen Esther: https://www.queen-esther.com

🌐 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, longtime fair lending and CRA expert Josh Silver discusses his new book, Ending Redlining: Through a Community-Centered Reform of the Community Reinvestment Act (Armin Lear Press, March 25, 2025). With the first major overhaul of CRA rules in nearly three decades set to take effect in January 2026, Silver explains what these changes mean for banks, communities, and the future of economic justice.

From the rise of online banking and cryptocurrency to the challenges of gentrification and housing affordability, Silver shares why a community-centered approach to banking reform is essential to ensuring fair lending and reinvestment in historically underserved neighborhoods. He also highlights the role of community banks, the power of documenting success stories, and how everyday citizens can take action to foster lasting change.

Learn more about Josh Silver and his work: Website: https://www.endredline.com/ Substack: https://joshsilver.substack.com/

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks" show with Joey Stuckey, the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia, Joey draws on his extensive experience as a blind award-winning guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, and sound engineer to share insights into the art and process of music production.

From preparing for that first recording session and managing nerves, to budgeting, collaboration, and finding balance between creativity and perfectionism, Joey offers invaluable advice for both emerging and seasoned musicians. The conversation also reflects on the growth that comes from mistakes, the evolving role of home versus professional studios, and the importance of celebrating milestones like Joey’s inspiring Alive Day.

Learn more about Joey and his inspiring musical journey at https://www.joeystuckey.com/

What You’ll Learn in this Episode - How to prepare for the recording studio and set realistic expectations - Why budgeting and collaboration matter in music production - The value of mistakes and celebrating creative milestones

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joey Stuckey and His Journey 02:27 Preparing for the Recording Studio 09:32 Realistic Expectations in Music Production 16:09 The Role of Home Studios and Remote Collaboration 25:32 The Art of Communication in Music Production 36:35 The Role of a Producer vs. Engineer 38:22 Artistic Intent and the Creative Process 39:57 Understanding the Unconventional 41:30 Nerves and Performance Anxiety in Music 43:01 Creating a Comfortable Studio Environment 45:02 The Importance of Honest Feedback 46:32 The Growth Process in Music Production 47:24 Recognizing Diminishing Returns in Recording 49:20 The Balance of Creativity and Perfectionism 51:34 Embracing Mistakes and Learning from Detours 54:04 Celebrating Triumphs: Joey Stuckey's Alive Day

This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts," "Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll," and "Success Express" podcast channels. Explore and follow the Big Blend Radio Network of shows here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection show features climate storyteller and activist Denali Sai Nalamalapu, author of “Holler: A Graphic Memoir of Rural Resistance” (Timber Press / Hachette, May 13, 2025).

Based in Southwest Virginia, Nalamalapu is a powerful new voice in climate storytelling and a leader in one of Appalachia’s most courageous environmental resistance movements. Holler chronicles the fight against the Mountain Valley Pipeline through the eyes of six local activists—a teacher, a nurse, a photographer, and more—who dared to challenge corporate power and government complicity in the heart of coal country.

The conversation explores: - How visual storytelling makes climate issues more accessible. - The diverse perspectives and skill sets that strengthen grassroots movements. - The importance of community involvement in resisting fossil fuel expansion. - How innovation, education, and personal stories can drive climate action. - Why self-care and balance are vital for sustaining long-term activism.

Blending personal insight, lived experience, and stunning visual storytelling, Nalamalapu offers a moving and empowering look at resilience, resistance, and the future of the climate movement. More at: https://denali-sai.com/

🎧 This Nature Connection episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Quality of Life" and "Rants, Raves & Rock" Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This episode of Big Blend Radio celebrates American Artists Appreciation Month with acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician John McAndrew, who talks about his brand-new solo album, Better Side of Me (Quarto Valley Records).

A seamless blend of blues, Americana, roots music, and pop sensibilities, Better Side of Me showcases McAndrew’s soulful and jagged vocal style—at once bluesy, plaintive, moving, and deeply inspiring. The album is a collaboration with producer Denny Seiwell (co-founder and drummer of Wings) and musician/producer Fernando Perdomo, whose combined expertise elevates McAndrew’s heartfelt storytelling into an unforgettable listening experience.

In this conversation, John reflects on: - The storytelling power of songwriting. - The influence of the Midwest on his music. - The importance of intimate venues for live performances. - Collaborating with producers who understand and honor the artist’s vision. - The role of music in healing, reflection, and civil rights.

With his ability to inspire and uplift through music, John McAndrew continues to captivate audiences across the country while shining a light on the profound connection between art, humanity, and social healing.

🎶 Learn more about John at: https://johnmcandrew.com/ 🎶 Watch John’s Better Side of Me live concert at Kulak’s Woodshed in North Hollywood, CA: https://johnmcandrew.com/Concert-01.htm 🎶 Explore more episodes on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes us on an adventure through Nashville, Tennessee, the “Music City” that blends legendary stages, cultural landmarks, and artistic spirit. From the Ryman Auditorium and the world-famous Grand Ole Opry, to the lasting legacy of Johnny Cash and the interactive experiences at the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville continues to be a place where music shapes the community and connects people.

The journey also highlights unexpected and fascinating stops like the full-scale Parthenon, the historic elegance of the Union Station Hotel, and family-friendly attractions like Madame Tussauds Nashville. Lisa also spotlights the National Museum of African American Music, an essential stop for understanding the deeper roots of the city’s sound.

This episode is part of our celebration of American Adventures Month and American Artist Appreciation Month, honoring the destinations, stories, and creativity that make the U.S. such a vibrant place to explore.

🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by Nashville: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648

🗺️ Lisa’s Nashville Travel Articles & Resources: - National Museum of African American Music: https://writerlisa.com/2024/01/16/the-national-museum-of-african-american-music/ - The Parthenon: https://writerlisa.com/2023/11/14/parthenon-in-nashville-tennessee/ - Union Station Hotel: https://writerlisa.com/2023/12/08/union-station-hotel-nashville/ - Madame Tussauds Nashville: https://www.madametussauds.com/nashville - Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp: https://www.visitmusiccity.com/

📚 Lisa Evans is the 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/

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Toast to The Arts, Way Back When, Big Daily Blend, and Rants, Raves & Rock Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection Show, we expose the urgent threat facing Florida’s black bears: the proposed return of trophy hunting. Our featured guests—Adam Sugalski, founder of OneProtest, and Kathleen Walls, travel writer and animal rights activist—delve into the history, controversy, and consequences surrounding bear trophy hunting in the state.

Despite widespread public opposition, Florida officials are considering allowing trophy hunting again—this time with even more extreme and controversial methods. Proposed regulations include using dogs to chase down bears, and allowing bow hunting, both of which raise serious concerns about ethics, suffering, and safety. These changes reflect a broader shift: from traditional, regulated practices to high-tech and high-cruelty tactics that prioritize trophies over wildlife protection.

Key issues discussed include: - The cruelty of using dogs to hunt bears, often resulting in prolonged chases and violent encounters. - The dangers and suffering caused by bow hunting, which can leave bears wounded and dying slowly. - How modern technology—like GPS collars and high-powered optics—makes killing easier, reducing fair chase and undermining conservation claims. - The false narrative that trophy hunters are conservationists. - The economic motivations behind these changes, often benefiting landowners and developers. - How urban expansion is shrinking bear habitat, making coexistence—not killing—essential. - The growing role of public activism and protest in challenging these proposals and defending wildlife.

This conversation calls attention to the real motives behind trophy hunting and stresses the importance of ethical wildlife management rooted in science and compassion. If you're passionate about protecting animals and opposing cruelty disguised as tradition, this episode will inform, outrage, and inspire you to take action.

🎧 Learn more and get involved: https://www.beardefenders.org/ 📖 Read Kathleen Walls' article, The Bear Facts: https://www.americanroads.net/bear_5-9-2025.htm 🌱 Visit OneProtest: https://www.oneprotest.org/