Episodes

  • Jefferson Highway & Route 66: Crossroads of American History
    Mar 26 2026

    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

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    52 mins
  • What Employers Need to Know About Hiring in California in 2026
    Mar 26 2026

    Hiring employees in California is becoming more complex in 2026, with new laws impacting everything from job postings to AI-driven hiring tools.

    In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "California Employment Law" Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs breaks down what employers need to know about pay transparency requirements, AI discrimination risks in hiring, and new rules governing signing bonus repayment, along with key wage considerations tied to job offers.

    From updated minimum wage laws for fast food and healthcare workers to stricter requirements around accurate wage ranges in job postings, this conversation highlights how hiring practices must evolve to stay compliant. Ward also explains how the use of artificial intelligence in hiring can expose employers to discrimination claims if not carefully monitored, and what businesses should do to protect themselves.

    Whether you’re an employer, HR professional, or job seeker, this episode offers essential insights into navigating California’s changing hiring landscape in 2026.

    📖 Read Ward’s article: https://successexpress.substack.com/p/hiring-in-california-2026

    🌐 Connect with Ward Heinrichs: https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ward-heinrichs/

    📘 Explore Ward’s Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/CALIFORNIA-EMPLOYMENT-LAW/#p=1

    🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/

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    37 mins
  • Pet Poison Prevention: Common Household Hazards & Life Saving Tips
    Mar 24 2026

    In this shared Big Blend Radio "Pet Connection" episode for Pet Poison Prevention Month, we sit down with co-host Angela Laws from TrustedHouseSitters.com, to uncover the hidden hazards lurking in our homes and gardens.

    From common kitchen staples like chocolate to beautiful but deadly lilies, Angela shares expert insights on how to pet-proof your environment. Whether you are a long-time pet owner or a dedicated pet sitter, this conversation provides the practical tools and awareness needed to prevent emergencies and keep our furry friends thriving.

    Read more from the Trustedhousesitters.com Blog: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/search/?q=poison

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    46 mins
  • Women Guitar Legends: Trailblazers Who Shaped Music
    Mar 22 2026

    On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks" Podcast with Joey Stuckey, we celebrate Women’s History Month by honoring the trailblazing women guitarists who have shaped music across generations.

    From foundational pioneers like Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Mary Ford, Elizabeth Cotten, and Mary Ford, to influential artists such as Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, Dolly Parton, and rock icons like Joan Jett, Nancy Wilson, and Lita Ford, Joey explores their lasting impact.

    The conversation also spotlights modern innovators and genre-bending artists including Bonnie Raitt, Susan Tedeschi, Samantha Fish, Sheryl Crow, St. Vincent, Orianthi, and H.E.R..

    Together, these artists represent the depth, diversity, and innovation of women in guitar—from blues and folk to rock, Americana, and beyond—while also highlighting the challenges they’ve overcome and the legacy they continue to build.

    🎧 Listen to our Women Guitarists Spotify Music Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4B3OAVC0AW60wF3i5SjLsZ?si=8ce204f42cb34fb2

    🎶 Learn more about Joey Stuckey: https://www.joeystuckey.com/

    Artist images courtesy of Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons. All images are used under their respective Creative Commons licenses. Photographers include Mandi Hall, Penguinstorm, Justin Higuchi, Skyerise, Stevie Rae Gibbs, Truejustice, Chris Hakkens, Jim Summaria, Zoran Veselinovic, David Gans, and Heinrich Klaffs.

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • How Artist Lois Duffy Helped Shape the Art Scene in Silver City, New Mexico
    Mar 21 2026

    In celebration of Women's History Month, this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "World of Art" Podcast features artist and art historian Victoria Chick who explores the vibrant art scene of Silver City, New Mexico, spotlighting the life and legacy of renowned artist Lois Duffy.

    A key figure in establishing Silver City as a nationally recognized art destination, Duffy’s career spans from studying at Pratt Institute to exhibiting across the country and creating large-scale, imaginative works that blend realism with surrealist humor. Known for her innovative “cube paintings,” Duffy transforms two-dimensional painting into dynamic, multi-dimensional experiences that engage viewers from every angle.

    The conversation also highlights the evolution of Silver City’s art community, local events and festivals, and the exciting development of the Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center, a project designed to elevate the region’s cultural impact and support artists for generations to come.

    🔗 Read Victoria’s article on Substack: https://bigblendarts.substack.com/p/spotlight-on-artist-lois-duffy

    🌐 MORE TO EXPLORE - Lois Duffy: https://www.loisduffy.com/ - Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/ - Visit Silver City: https://visitsilvercity.org/ - Artist Victoria Chick: https://victoriachick.com/ - World of Art Podcast: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/

    🎧 This episode also appears on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts, "Big Daily Blend," and "Women Making History" podcast channels. Discover more: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

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    35 mins
  • The Reality of HR: Why Trust Is the Currency of the Workplace
    Mar 20 2026

    In this insightful shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) dives into the complex and often misunderstood role of Human Resources.

    HR professionals walk a delicate line—balancing trust, fairness, legal compliance, and organizational priorities. Rita discusses the challenges of “doing HR,” from handling difficult conversations and workplace conflicts to maintaining neutrality and holding leadership accountable. She also explores the critical question: Is HR seen as policing employees—or supporting them?

    In recognition of Employee Spirit Month, this episode highlights how HR plays a critical role in building engaged, supported, and successful teams.

    📌 Resources & Links: 🔹 Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Supervision Matters Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Supervision-Matters-Magazine-2026/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/ 🔹 Explore more business & career podcasts on Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

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    28 mins
  • Chasing the Chameleon: Crime Fiction, Justice & Suspense with Author
    Mar 19 2026

    In celebration of National Reading Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features award-winning author and attorney Paul Coggins, discussing his latest legal thriller "Chasing the Chameleon", released March 6, 2026.

    A former U.S. Attorney and nationally prominent criminal defense lawyer, Coggins brings real-world experience to his gripping fiction. In "Chasing the Chameleon," Dallas defense attorney Cash McCahill is forced into a dangerous game with a drug cartel, leading him to assume a new identity while racing to stop a series of violent attacks targeting vulnerable communities.

    In this insightful conversation, Coggins shares how his legal career shapes his storytelling, the realities of defending high-stakes clients, and the challenges of writing authentic courtroom drama. He also discusses character development, the influence of classic legal and mystery figures, and his hopes of bringing the Cash McCahill series to television.

    🔗 Learn more about Paul Coggins: https://paulcogginsauthor.com/

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    58 mins
  • Historic Detroit Mansions and the Women Behind Them
    Mar 17 2026

    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

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    37 mins