A Toast to The Arts

Authenticity in Song: Teresa Tudury & Johnny Schaefer on Music, Healing & Humanity

This episode of Big Blend Radio features award-winning singer-songwriter Teresa Tudury, celebrating the release of her powerful new album "Perhaps You’ve Heard of Me," and Johnny Schaefer, singer-songwriter and podcast cohost. Recorded in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Teresa’s album is raw, soulful, and deeply authentic — featuring Charlie Musselwhite on harmonica and Rickie Lee Jones on vocals.
Teresa and Johnny discuss the power of music, authenticity in artistry, the journey of creating and sharing songs, and how intimate performances and collaborations shape an artist’s life. Expect stories about resilience, humor, and the healing role music plays during hard times.
Songs featured in this episode: Teresa’s “All These Horrible People” and “Cowgirls” (featuring Rickie Lee Jones).
Keep up with Teresa:- https://www.teresatudurymusic.com/ - https://www.facebook.com/TeresaTuduryMusic/ 
Keep up with Johnny:- https://hearjohnny.com/ - Hear Johnny’s new single "Find a Place": https://youtu.be/4OsJMo-sK_o?feature=shared 
⏱ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Music and Guests04:39 Teresa's New Album and Recording Journey10:15 The Power of Music and Connection14:54 Authenticity in Music and the Role of Artists19:59 The Importance of Art in Difficult Times25:11 Teresa's Musical Journey and Influences30:00 The Evolution of Music Venues35:09 The Role of Humor in Music39:50 The Reality of Being a Musician45:30 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

Author S.L. Woeppel: The Butcher and The Liar

Celebrate National Read a Book Day with Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" Show as we chat with award-winning author S.L. Woeppel about her gripping new psychological thriller, "The Butcher and the Liar."
At the heart of this dark and haunting story is Daisy Bellon, a Chicago butcher who has worked hard to bury her father’s grisly past—until an anonymous letter forces her to confront family secrets, childhood trauma, and the ghostly reminders of what she witnessed as a child. When someone close to her is murdered in a chillingly familiar way, Daisy must finally decide whether to expose the truth or risk becoming the monster she fears.
In this conversation, S.L. Woeppel shares her evolution as a writer—from her rom-com debut "Flipping the Birdie" (a BookLife Prize finalist) to exploring the shadows of human nature in her latest novel. We discuss the duality of identity, the influence of childhood experiences, the impact of family legacies, and how creativity often grows out of both passion and pain.
🔗 Learn more about S.L. Woeppel and her books: https://www.slwoeppelbooks.com/ 
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" Podcast channel. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Tijuana Ricks and Anthony Pirro: Artists-in-Residence in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 1st Friday “Toast to The Arts & Parks” Show features Tijuana Ricks and Anthony Pirro, who recently completed a National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artist-in-residence program at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Known for her roles in Billions and Marvel’s Luke Cage, Tijuana is an acclaimed actress, writer, and director. Her partner, Anthony, brings a unique perspective as an education leader, genomics researcher, along with a background in creative production. More: https://www.tijuanaricks.com/ 
In this insightful conversation, Tijuana and Anthony share their experiences and insights from their time on the Big Island. They discuss the vital role of storytelling, the profound connection between humanity and nature, and how their immersive experience in Hawaiian culture inspired their creative process. The episode also explores the evolving landscape of the arts in the face of new challenges, emphasizing that authenticity and the human experience are more vital than ever.
🌐 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies:https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" and "Parks & Travel" Podcast Channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun - Pastels, Ceramics & Brush Drawings

Celebrate American Artist Appreciation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio featuring Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun. Lance shares details about the gallery’s new rotating exhibits on view from September 5, 2025 through January 28, 2026. These special collections highlight different dimensions of the artistry of Ted DeGrazia, one of the most reproduced artists in the world.
The fall/winter exhibits include:- Brush Drawings of Ted DeGrazia (1945-1963): Bold, fluid works created without a pen, capturing children at play, ballerinas in motion, cowboys, horses, musicians, and miners.
- Ceramic Paintings of Ted DeGrazia: Figurative works painted on ceramic plates and sculptural forms, featuring beloved subjects like angels, madonnas, roadrunners, and petroglyph-inspired designs.
- DeGrazia’s Pastels (1953-1978): A rare showcase of impressionistic pastel drawings, many never before displayed, including live demonstration pieces created during public events.
This conversation also explores DeGrazia’s creative process, his impact on the Southwest art scene, and the gallery’s role as a cultural landmark and community hub in Tucson, Arizona.
🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org 🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com 
This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend" and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

The Art of Recording Music - Insights from Joey Stuckey

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
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Joey Stuckey and His Journey02:27 Preparing for the Recording Studio09:32 Realistic Expectations in Music Production16:09 The Role of Home Studios and Remote Collaboration25:32 The Art of Communication in Music Production36:35 The Role of a Producer vs. Engineer38:22 Artistic Intent and the Creative Process39:57 Understanding the Unconventional41:30 Nerves and Performance Anxiety in Music43:01 Creating a Comfortable Studio Environment45:02 The Importance of Honest Feedback46:32 The Growth Process in Music Production47:24 Recognizing Diminishing Returns in Recording49:20 The Balance of Creativity and Perfectionism51:34 Embracing Mistakes and Learning from Detours54:04 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 

Nashville: Celebrating Music, History & Culture

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 

Exploring Better Side of Me – John McAndrew’s Soulful New Album

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 

Exploring the Legacy of Artist Arthur Kraft

Celebrate American Artist Appreciation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s World of Art podcast, where artist and art historian Victoria Chick delves into the life and legacy of Arthur Kraft (1922-1977). This talented Kansas City artist is known for his murals, mosaics, and significant contributions to public art. 
The conversation explores:- Kraft’s artistic journey from a young age- Kansas City’s vibrant artistic history and his place within it- The importance of public art in shaping community identity- Challenges artists face in preserving their work amid shifting perceptions- Personal connections and the role of solitude in the creative process- The need to preserve artistic heritage for future generations
Also featured is a discussion tying in the influence of Thomas Hart Benton, further grounding the conversation in Kansas City’s rich artistic lineage.
Featured images are courtesy of Pat & Randy Kelly, owners of Kelly's Westport Inn — listen for Pat’s interview coming up next!
Read Victoria’s Articles:- The Life and Legacy of Artist Arthur Kraft: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-life-and-legacy-of-artist-arthur-kraft/ - Exploring Thomas Hart Benton & ‘Country’: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/exploring-thomas-hart-benton-country/ 
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 also appears on Big Blend Radio’s Toast to The Arts and BIg Daily Blend channels. Discover more: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork