“Dumb Girl” (She Writes Press, Aug. 19, 2025) is an inspiring memoir of a woman who overcomes the physical, emotional, and sexual abuse of her early life to blossom into a gun violence prevention activist. This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Wednesday "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward features award-winning author and activist Heidi Yewman, who talks about her powerful new memoir, “Dumb Girl: A Journey from Childhood Abuse to Gun Control”. In Dumb Girl, Heidi chronicles her life fr...
Aug 13, 2025•49 min•Ep. 116
On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Podcast, travel writer Terri Guthrie and her husband Ron share their firsthand experience with a growing travel trend: medical tourism. In this candid conversation, Ron details his journey to Istanbul, Turkey, for a hair transplant. He and Terri discuss the surprising affordability and high quality of medical procedures in Turkey, a country rapidly becoming a global leader in this field. Ron walks us through the entire process, from the pr...
Aug 12, 2025•35 min•Ep. 115
In celebration of Happiness Happens Month, this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show features transformational life coach Shelley Whizin diving deep into the meaning of happiness—how it shows up in our lives, why it matters, and how it can coexist with grief and challenge. Shelley discusses the power of resilience, the magic of random acts of kindness, and how we can all tap into a deeper sense of joy—even in a world filled with uncertainty. From self-acknowledgment to ...
Aug 03, 2025•17 min•Ep. 114
Join Big Blend Radio for an intimate and insightful conversation with bestselling author, respected psychologist, and marital expert Bonnie Comfort. In this episode, Bonnie delves into her powerful new memoir, "Staying Married is the Hardest Part: A Memoir of Passion, Secrets, and Sacrifice" (She Writes Press, June 17, 2025). Prepare for an unvarnished look at the complexities of marriage as Bonnie shares her personal journey and professional expertise. We explore the often-unspoken realities of...
Jul 30, 2025•31 min•Ep. 113
Join us for an inspiring "Success Express" conversation with Jason Ball, as he shares his remarkable pivot from a thriving career in broadcast journalism to co-owning the charming Old Ranch Inn in Palm Springs with his husband. But Jason's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there! He also delves into the exciting venture of launching his "Life After News" podcast and the "Desert Dispatch" Palm Springs newsletter, demonstrating how passion and adaptable skills can lead to diverse new paths. This ...
Jul 29, 2025•40 min•Ep. 112
In celebration of International Self-Care Day, board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany—author of “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story”—explores why self-care is essential for heart health. From the importance of sleep and mindfulness to the evolving role of AI in healthcare, this episode offers practical and empowering ways to prioritize your well-being, especially for caregivers and women at risk for heart disease. Dr. Jackie shares how stress management, learning about your own ...
Jul 24, 2025•28 min•Ep. 111
On this episode of Big Blend Radio, award-winning author Hendrika de Vries discusses her moving and reflective new memoir, “Open Turns” (She Writes Press, September 2, 2025). From surviving Nazi-occupied Amsterdam as a child to navigating immigration and competitive swimming in 1950s Australia, Hendrika shares her remarkable coming-of-age story of survival, strength, and self-discovery. As a teenager determined to shape her own identity in a world that tried to confine her, she dives—again and a...
Jul 23, 2025•35 min•Ep. 110
This episode of Big Blend Radio features Clay Stauffer, author of "What the World Needs Now: Virtue and Character in an Age of Chaos." In this thought-provoking conversation, Clay discusses how we can better navigate today’s complex world by embracing emotional intelligence, spiritual connection, and character formation. He addresses key issues such as loneliness, political polarization, trauma, homelessness, and the breakdown of community—and emphasizes the healing power of forgiveness, compass...
Jul 10, 2025•37 min•Ep. 109
This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Books & Authors” Show with Books Forward features Rob Tonkin, author of the powerful memoir A**hole: Wild Stories of Trauma, Truths & Transformation (releasing July 21, 2025). Known in the industry as “Rockin’ Rob,” Tonkin began his radio career at 14 and later produced the two-decade-long Honda Civic Tour, working with top artists like blink-182, The Black Eyed Peas, and One Direction. But behind the glitz of the music world lay a personal story of pai...
Jul 09, 2025•47 min•Ep. 108
In this “From the Vault” episode of Big Blend Radio’s Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie, we celebrate Parks & Recreation Month and the Summer Travel Season with an essential conversation on heart health during travel and outdoor adventures. Board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany highlights the importance of recognizing heart attack symptoms, the life-saving impact of CPR and AEDs in public spaces, and how to manage heart health at high altitudes. She also discusses the Mediter...
Jul 09, 2025•31 min•Ep. 107
In an age where scrolling often replaces genuine conversation, is it time to rebuild real-life connection? On Big Blend Radio's Quality of Life show, we welcome Dr. Kathleen P. Allen, author of “Stuck in Our Screens: Setting Aside Social Drama and Restoring Human Connection.” Dr. Allen shares powerful, research-based insights on how social media and constant digital distractions are disrupting empathy, communication, and relationships for both teens and adults. She uniquely blends humor with ser...
Jul 07, 2025•30 min•Ep. 106
Feeling stressed and guilty about taking time off? You're not alone! In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin offers a refreshing perspective, reframing time off as a sacred act of self-compassion. Shelley dives into the impacts of overscheduling and the often-overlooked value of spontaneity, revealing the crucial connection between our health and taking a break. She also highlights the profound healing qualities of being out in nat...
Jul 06, 2025•39 min•Ep. 105
In honor of National Family Reunion Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show highlights why Frisco, Texas is a must-visit destination for families of all ages. Travel writer Terri Guthrie shares her recent adventures in this vibrant city near Dallas, known for transforming from a small railroad town into a nationally recognized hub of attractions and experiences. From interactive learning at KidZania and the Frisco Public Library to thrilling visits to the National Socce...
Jul 01, 2025•36 min•Ep. 104
As part of Big Blend Radio’s National Family Month programming, award-winning author Rayne Lacko joins us to talk about her upper YA novel "The Secret Song of Shelby Rey." This gritty and emotional coming-of-age story follows a teen navigating the uncertainty of early adulthood through the lens of music, love, addiction, and self-discovery. In this episode, Rayne explores how music can be a tool for healing, how young people form identity, the role of parents in their journey, and the power of l...
Jun 30, 2025•33 min•Ep. 103
Celebrate National Family Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio featuring debut author Catharina Steel who shares the inspiration behind "Vanishings," the first book in The Wythic Wood Mysteries, a middle grade fantasy series. Follow young Tilly’s magical adventure through Clayton Forest and Wythic Woods as she searches for her missing cousin—encountering wizards, creatures, and goblin martial arts known as Gobight along the way. Catharina talks about her journey to becoming a writer, the p...
Jun 29, 2025•35 min•Ep. 102
This episode of Big Blend Radio features Dr. Marschall Runge, a leading cardiologist, medical researcher, and CEO of Michigan Medicine. He discusses his new book, "The Great Healthcare Disruption, "which explores how emerging technologies like AI, new medications, and bold healthcare policies are transforming the future of American medicine. Dr. Runge also talks about his previous medical thriller, "Coded to Kill," and how fiction can reflect real-world challenges in the healthcare system. From ...
Jun 27, 2025•50 min•Ep. 101
In observance of Father’s Day and National Family Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features debut author B.R. Duray, who shares the inspiration behind his whimsical and heartfelt children’s picture book, The Mood Swing (Moon Tree Studios, June 15, 2025). Inspired by the loss of his own father at a young age, Duray’s story gently guides young readers through the ups and downs of grief, emotional resilience, and healing. In this thoughtful conversation, he discusses the power of imagination,...
Jun 15, 2025•28 min•Ep. 100
As part of our YA Novel Showcase for Family Month (June), this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Books & Authors Show with Books Forward features author Elizabeth Harlan, who discusses her compelling new young adult novel, Becoming Carly Klein. Set in 1980s New York City, the story captures the emotional intensity of adolescence while exploring themes of identity, relationships, and the evolving role of family. Elizabeth shares insights into the writing process, the lasting influence of music in ...
Jun 12, 2025•32 min•Ep. 99
What happens when a racist viral video stars your best friend? As part of our YA Novel Showcase for Family Month (June), this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward features award-winning author Pamela N. Harris, who discusses her latest young adult novel, "This Town Is On Fire." In this engaging conversation, Pam shares her journey as a YA author and dives into the inspiration and writing process behind her powerful books. The discussion explores the challeng...
Jun 11, 2025•24 min•Ep. 98
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 ...
Jun 11, 2025•36 min•Ep. 97
It’s all about Happy Mindful Meditations on this uplifting episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show with transformational life coach Shelley Whizin, founder and CEO of the Soul Diving Institute™. Shelley explores the powerful role meditation and mindfulness play in achieving emotional well-being. Tune in to learn how shifting your perspective can spark personal growth and happiness, and discover how simple, mindful practices—like focusing on appreciation—can calm the mind, reduce str...
Jun 01, 2025•22 min•Ep. 96
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, t...
Jun 01, 2025•59 min•Ep. 95
Noise is everywhere—disrupting our sleep, increasing our stress, and wrecking our focus—yet it's often dismissed as a minor nuisance. But what if it’s a major environmental issue hiding in plain sound? This episode of Big Blend Radio's Nature Connection Show features author and science writer Chris Berdik, who dives into the surprising science and urgent implications behind his new book, "Clamor: How Noise Took Over the World―and How We Can Take It Back." Berdik discusses the widespread impact o...
May 30, 2025•16 min•Ep. 94
In this heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor Memorial Day and Military Appreciation Month by exploring the deep connections formed through acts of kindness—especially within the military community. The conversation also highlights how travel can deepen our understanding of military history and sacrifice. Guests Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass travel blog, share their inspiring story of meeting through the nonprofit organization Soldiers’ Angels . They d...
May 26, 2025•1 hr 31 min•Ep. 93
In this empowering episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Books & Authors Show" with Books Forward, we chat with debut author Deb Miller and her daughter Hadley Edwards about Deb’s inspiring new memoir, Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness (She Writes Press, June 24, 2025). Blending memoir with cultural commentary, Deb shares how she broke free from the traditional "happily-ever-after" narrative to embrace a life built on self-discovery, courage, and personal fulfillment. Together with Hadle...
May 14, 2025•52 min•Ep. 92
In this special episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie”, we observe National High Blood Pressure Education Month by diving into the realities of high blood pressure (hypertension) and its impact on heart health. Known as the “silent killer,” hypertension affects 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. and often presents no symptoms until a serious event, such as a stroke or heart attack, occurs. Dr. Jacqueline Eubany, cardiologist and author of “Women and Heart Disease: The Real St...
May 14, 2025•33 min•Ep. 91
In this heartwarming and inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio, we raise a year-round toast to the incredible women who shape our lives — celebrating motherhood in all its forms. From powerful personal stories to fascinating insights into the animal kingdom and human history, this special show goes far beyond a single day of recognition. Nancy J. Reid & Lisa D. Smith, the mother-daughter duo behind Big Blend Radio, kick off the show with heartfelt reflections from their adventures as pet sitt...
May 11, 2025•1 hr 35 min•Ep. 90
In honor of Mother’s Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday show with Shelley Whizin takes a deep dive into the complex and transformative world of mother-daughter relationships. Shelley discusses how generational trauma can be inherited just like traditions—and how it’s possible to consciously break those cycles to build a new legacy of love, respect, and emotional healing. She also shares insights from the chapter she co-wrote with her daughter, Sarah, titled “A Legacy of Lo...
May 04, 2025•23 min•Ep. 89
In this special Earth Day episode of the Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, to dive into the growing lifestyle trend of “backyarding” – the shift of indoor activities like dining, working, exercising, and entertaining to our outdoor spaces. Kris shares how this powerful movement is encouraging communities across the country to invest in urban parks, public green spaces, and sustainable outdoor living areas. With over 15 years of advocacy,...
Apr 22, 2025•41 min•Ep. 88
On this episode of Big Blend Radio, directors Zach Ingrasci and Chris Temple discuss their film VITALIK: AN ETHEREUM STORY that provides an intimate look at the humanity and vision behind a technological revolution. Through exclusive interviews with Vitalik Buterin, his parents, and leading tech figures—including Dmitry Buterin, Danny Ryan, Itzel Yard, and Tim O’Reilly—the film traces Buterin’s journey from childhood to the creation of Ethereum. Blending archival footage with firsthand insights,...
Apr 15, 2025•16 min•Ep. 87
