A Toast to The Arts

Author Rayne Lacko - The Secret Song of Shelby Rey

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 literature to help teens feel less alone.
Learn more: https://raynelacko.com/ 

Author Catharina Steel - Vanishings

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 power of imagination and escapism, and why stories that inspire curiosity, creativity, and outdoor exploration are more important than ever for young readers.
Learn more at: https://catharinasteel.com/ 

Author Sam Davey - The Chosen Queen

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, author Sam Davey talks about her powerful new novel "The Chosen Queen," a feminist reimagining of the Pendragon prophecy told through the eyes of Igraine—Arthur’s mother and a woman of great strength, wisdom, and influence. Shifting the spotlight from kings and knights to queens and mothers, this is a story about power, destiny, and the women who shaped legend.
Sam shares her inspiration behind the book, how she blends history and myth, and what it’s like to juggle writing with a full-time career at London’s Royal Opera House. She also discusses her deep connection to Arthurian lore, the role of nature and magic in her storytelling, and her commitment to portraying women’s voices in history.
🔹 Highlights:- A fresh feminist perspective on Arthurian legend- Igraine’s journey as a mother, leader, and visionary- The intersection of myth, magic, and historical research- Sam’s path as a writer, and advocate for women’s stories
Learn more at https://www.samdaveyroughmagic.net/ 

The Kissing Playlist: Songs That Connect

Celebrate National Kissing Day with this fun and heartfelt episode of MUSIC TALKS on Big Blend Radio, featuring award-winning musician, producer, and cohost Joey Stuckey.
From the spark of a first kiss to the songs that soundtrack our most romantic moments, this lively conversation dives into the powerful connection between music and intimacy. Joey shares personal stories, reflects on how music shapes relationships, and chats about the evolving nature of romance and the importance of keeping music real. With heart, humor, and some deep thoughts on everything from house concerts to kissing songs, it's a show that hits all the right notes.
🎶 Don’t miss our curated Kissing Songs Spotify Playlist: https://tinyurl.com/yc4dnsxc 
Learn more about Joey Stuckey, the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia – the “Southern Rock Capital of the World” – at https://www.joeystuckey.com. 
This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s popular shows Big Daily Blend, Toast to The Arts, and Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll. Follow the Big Blend Radio Network here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork. 

The Life and Legacy of Artist Fanny Adele Watson (1873-1947)

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s World of Art podcast, artist and art historian Victoria Chick shares the remarkable life and legacy of Fanny Adele Watson (1873–1947), a pioneering American artist whose work—especially her landscapes and depictions of national parks—stood out in a male-dominated art world.
The conversation explores Watson’s unique artistic voice, her influences, and the historical context of her career. Victoria also emphasizes the importance of preserving art and recognizing the vital contributions of women artists throughout history, as well as how travel and natural beauty have inspired generations of painters.
🖼️ Read Victoria’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-life-and-legacy-of-artist-fanny-adele-watson-1873-1947/  🎨 Victoria Chick is a contemporary figurative artist, art historian, and the visionary behind the Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center in Silver City, New Mexico. She also collects early 19th and 20th-century American prints.
🔗 More to Explore:- Victoria’s Portfolio: https://victoriachick.com/ - World of Art Podcast: https://worldofart-victoriachick.podbean.com/ - Southwest Regional Museum of Art & Art Center: https://www.southwest-art-museum.org/ 
📣 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Women Making History and Toast to The Arts podcast channels. Discover more shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Author B.R. Duray - The Mood Swing Children's Book

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, the importance of open communication, and how storytelling can help children (and parents) navigate complex emotions.
Learn more about The Mood Swing at: http://moodswing-media.org  Listen to more Big Blend Radio episodes: https://bigblendradio.podbean.com/  

Novelist Elizabeth Harlan - Becoming Carly Klein

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 storytelling, and how technology continues to shape youth experiences and YA literature today.
Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that resonates with readers of all ages.
🔗 Learn more at: https://elizabethharlan.com/ 

YA Author Pamela N. Harris - This Town is on Fire

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 challenges of writing for a younger audience, the importance of tackling timely social issues, and the nuanced dynamics of friendship, identity, and accountability in today's world. She also highlights the vital role that parents and educators play in shaping youth perspectives, the value of cultural representation in schools, and the power of open dialogue in addressing complex, real-life topics.
With authenticity and insight, Pam unpacks the motivations behind her characters and her commitment to honest, growth-centered storytelling.
🔗 Learn more at: https://www.pamharriswrites.com/