A Toast to The Arts

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/ 

The Artistic Connection to National Parks

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show celebrates Great Outdoors Month with Tanya Ortega, acclaimed photographer and founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF). NPAF leads the way in establishing unique, month-long artist-in-residence programs in national parks across the country.
In this inspiring conversation, Tanya shares how art acts as a catalyst for change and preservation, and how artists help deepen the cultural and emotional value of our public lands. The discussion touches on the legacy of art in parks, community engagement, accessibility, and the importance of integrating creativity into conservation efforts to ensure these natural treasures are cherished by future generations.
🔗 Learn more and apply: https://nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 🎧 Listen & follow the show: https://arts-parks.podbean.com/ 📚 Coming soon: Big Blend Radio’s NPAF Retrospective Digital Publication, celebrating 8+ years of creative collaborations in national parks.
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio Network’s "Toast to The Arts," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" Shows. 📲 Subscribe: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Celebrating 116 Years of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, to honor the life and legacy of Ted DeGrazia on what would be his 116th birthday (Flag Day, June 14).
Known as one of the most reproduced artists in the world, DeGrazia captured the spirit of the Southwest through bold, expressive paintings that reflected the region’s people, cultures, and landscapes. From his deep connections to Native American and Mexican traditions, to his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, DeGrazia’s work continues to inspire generations.
🎧 In This Episode:* The history and mission of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a 10-acre National Historic Landmark in Tucson* Stories behind current exhibits: Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera and Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia (on display through Sept. 3, 2025)* DeGrazia’s ongoing influence on art, culture, and community dialogue
📍 Did You Know?* DeGrazia once made his own flag* He was featured and honored by Arizona Highways for his unique artistic voice* The gallery provides a cool and creative escape during Tucson’s hot summers
🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org 🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com 

Bay Area Bluesman James Byfield - Lemon Live Album

Join hosts Lisa D. Smith and Joey Stuckey on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s MUSIC TALKS Show as they chat with award-winning Bay Area bluesman James Byfield, also known as Blind Lemon Pledge, about his dynamic new live album, LEMON LIVE!
Following the success of his chart-topping 2024 acoustic blues release Oh So Good, Lemon Live! captures the raw energy, soul, and musical finesse of the Blind Lemon Pledge Band in performance. Since his debut release in 2009, James has crafted a compelling career both as a studio recording artist and live performer, showcasing his versatile style throughout Northern California and beyond. Keep up with James and his music: https://blindlemon-pledge.com/ 
🎵 In this conversation, you'll hear about:- The art of musical storytelling and the magic of live performance- How geography influences musical style and identity- The balance between collaboration and production perfection- James’s evolving journey in blues music and upcoming projects- Favorite live albums, musical heroes like The Allman Brothers, Miles Davis, Van Morrison & The Doors, and dream collaborations
This episode is full of insights, humor, and heartfelt reflections on the joy and purpose of making music.
🎸 About Joey Stuckey:Known as the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia – the “Southern Rock Capital of the World” – Joey is a blind, award-winning guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, and sound engineer. Explore his inspiring work at  https://www.joeystuckey.com/ 
🎙️ Tune in to Big Blend Radio’s MUSIC TALKS with Joey Stuckey every 4th Sunday at 12pm EST.📲 Subscribe: https://bigblendradio.podbean.com/ 

Author Jeremy D. Baker - The Guilty Sleep

In recognition of Military Appreciation Month and Memorial Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio features Jeremy D. Baker, author of the crime thriller, "The Guilty Sleep." A former U.S. Army counterintelligence agent and combat veteran, Jeremy shares how his military service and personal journey with PTSD have deeply influenced his writing.
The conversation explores the healing power of storytelling, the complex realities of crime and military life, and the powerful themes woven into "The Guilty Sleep." Jeremy offers compelling insights into human trafficking and transnational crime, highlighting how fiction can be a force for awareness and change. He also discusses the future of his work, including potential screen adaptations.
Jeremy D. Baker grew up in Italy, Florida, and Maryland. Over the past two decades, his national security career has spanned counterterrorism, organized crime, human trafficking, climate resilience, and cybersecurity. He now lives with his family in Maryland. Visit: https://www.jeremydbaker.com/ 

Exploring the Mississippi Blues Trail

🎙️In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox with Lisa, we’re diving into the soul of the South with an unforgettable journey along the Mississippi Blues Trail! 🎸🎤
Join travel writer Lisa Evans as she explores legendary landmarks like Robert Johnson’s Crossroads, 100 Men Hall in Bay St. Louis, and Ground Zero Blues Club in Biloxi—where she caught a powerful performance by Shemekia Copeland. Discover the stories behind the trail’s historic markers and the influential musicians who made the Blues a global phenomenon.
🗺️ Read Lisa’s Full Article:👉 https://rovology.com/united-states/mississippi/my-journey-of-discovery-along-the-mississippi-blues-trail/ 
🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Playlist on Spotify:👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648 
📚 About Lisa Evans: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/