Parks & Travel

Wild West & National Park Adventures in Cody Yellowstone, Wyoming

Celebrate the spirit of the American West with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Sip, Savor & Travel” podcast featuring travel writer Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” and special guest Katrina Southern, Marketing Manager for Cody Yellowstone.
Discover the breathtaking region of Cody Yellowstone—home to the towns of Cody, Powell, and Meeteetse, along with vast landscapes that include the Shoshone National Forest and the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park. From iconic Western heritage and world-class museums to outdoor adventures, wildlife watching, and authentic cowboy culture, this destination offers an unforgettable travel experience.
In this engaging conversation, learn about Cody’s deep roots in Western history, its connection to Buffalo Bill Cody, and why it’s known as the “Rodeo Capital of the World,” hosting nightly rodeos all summer long. The discussion also highlights scenic routes like the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, cultural landmarks such as the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center, and immersive experiences ranging from hiking and rafting to art galleries and local cuisine.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or outdoor adventure, Cody Yellowstone delivers a true taste of the Wild West.
👉 Plan your trip: https://www.codyyellowstone.org/ 👉 Read Linda’s article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/discover-cody-yellowstone 👉 Follow the “Sip, Savor & Travel” podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 👉 Explore the "Sip, Savor & Travel" digital podcast magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/bssg/ 👉 Follow Linda’s adventures: https://foodwinetravelchix.com/ 

Cracked Nut Creatives: Multimedia Art & Music at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show features members of Cracked Nut Creatives, current National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artists-in-residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Blending classical music, multimedia storytelling, and environmental awareness, the artists explore the powerful relationship between music, nature, and place. Through their residency experience, they share how volcanic landscapes, natural soundscapes, and cultural heritage influence artistic interpretation and creative expression.
The conversation highlights how engaging with nature can deepen artistic perspective, expand sensory awareness, and foster empathy—an essential element in all art forms. From composing and performing music inspired by the environment to creating immersive multimedia projects, these artists demonstrate how national parks serve as living studios for innovation and storytelling.
This episode also underscores the importance of preserving both natural and cultural heritage, and how artist residencies play a vital role in connecting audiences to the landscapes that inspire creative work.
FEATURED ARTISTS  CRACKED NUT CREATIVES* Carlin Ma (Pianist & Multimedia Artist)Website: https://carlinmamedia.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlinma_ 
* Joshua Nakazawa (Cellist / Composer)Website: https://manamusichawaii.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manamusichawaii/ 
* Sam Paris & Carlin Ma (Cracked Nut Creatives)Website: https://www.crackednutcreatives.com/ 
🎬 Glacial Ice Cave Music Video: https://youtu.be/RAWwbaERf04? si=qq_O3iKRSNDlQotP
NPAF, PODCAST & MAGAZINE* National Parks Arts Foundation: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ 
* “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Podcast:https://parks-arts.podbean.com/ 
* "Artists in Parks" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qryf/ 

Make Boone Your Next Appalachian Mountain Getaway

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Global Adventures" Podcast, travel writer Debbie Stone shares her immersive journey through Boone, North Carolina, a scenic Appalachian destination known for its natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming community spirit.
From the breathtaking vistas along the Blue Ridge Parkway to the mile-high swinging bridge at Grandfather Mountain, Debbie highlights the region’s outdoor adventures and geological wonders. She also explores cultural connections through Cherokee heritage and local legends, along with fascinating sites like Linville Caverns and Blowing Rock.
Beyond the landscapes, this episode dives into Boone’s vibrant local culture—from nostalgic stops like the historic Mast General Store to the thriving arts scene and Appalachian traditions. And of course, no visit is complete without indulging in Southern cuisine, from biscuits and fried chicken to trout and classic comfort foods.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie traveler, Boone offers a well-rounded and memorable mountain escape.
📖 Read Debbie’s article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/experience-the-magic-of-appalachia-in-boone-north-carolina 
🎧 Listen & Subscribe to the "Global Adventures" Podcast: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 
📚 Explore more in Debbie’s "Global Adventures" Digital Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/ 

Monarch Butterflies & Meaningful Travel in Mexico with Camiba Cultural Tours

Join travel writer Barbara Redding along with Troy Campa and Rene Ibarra of Camiba Cultural Tours as they share how responsible tourism supports ecosystems, preserves culture, and connects travelers to meaningful experiences. 
Discover the incredible migration of the Monarch Butterfly to the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, and learn how local communities and conservation efforts are working together to protect this natural wonder.
🌿 In this episode:Monarch butterfly migration and conservationResponsible tourism and ecological impactCultural immersion through local experiencesSupporting communities through travel
From the colonial beauty of Morelia to immersive cultural and nature-based experiences across Mexico and Latin America, this conversation highlights how travel can be a force for good.
👉 Explore more:https://www.camibaculturaltours.com/ https://linktr.ee/camibaculturaltours https://barbararedding.com/ 
📰 Read Barbara’s articles:- https://shebuystravel.com/monarch-butterfly-biosphere-reserve/ - https://rovology.com/mexico/morelia-and-monarchs-a-journey-into-mexicos-rose-colored-colonial-heartland/ 
🎧 This Nature Connection episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Author Scott Weidensaul: The Return of the Oystercatcher - Saving Birds to Save The Planet

In this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Nature Connection” Show, we’re joined by acclaimed author, ornithologist, and conservationist Scott Weidensaul to discuss his powerful new book, "The Return of the Oystercatcher: Saving Birds to Save the Planet" (W. W. Norton & Company, April 21, 2026).
Listen as Scott shares compelling stories of bird recovery, global conservation efforts, and the surprising ways birds reveal the health of our planet.
From the shores of Great Slave Lake to the forests of Kittatinny Ridge, the mountains of Southern Carpathians, and the islands of Kauaʻi, this conversation explores how science, Indigenous stewardship, and community action are driving meaningful environmental change.
While North America has lost nearly one-third of its birds since 1970, there is hope. Waterfowl populations have surged, raptors are rebounding, and conservation success stories—from the Bald Eagle to the American Oystercatcher—prove that focused efforts can make a difference.
In this episode, we discuss:Why some bird species are recovering while others declineHow conservation supports climate resilienceThe critical role of Indigenous-led land stewardshipSimple, everyday actions that help protect birds
👉 Learn more about Scott and his work: https://www.scottweidensaul.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel" Podcast Channel, highlighting the vital connection between nature, place, and conservation. 

Exploring Patagonia: Glaciers, Wildlife & Epic Landscapes

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Quiltripping Travel with Rose” podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares highlights from her unforgettable journey through Patagonia, one of the most breathtaking and remote regions in South America.
From the awe-inspiring glaciers of Los Glaciares National Park to the dramatic peaks of Torres del Paine National Park, Rose takes us deep into Patagonia’s wild landscapes. Along the way, she recounts incredible wildlife encounters—from penguin colonies near Punta Arenas to sightings of guanacos and the rare, majestic Andean condor.
This immersive conversation also covers practical travel tips, including navigating remote regions, planning a Patagonia itinerary, and preparing for changing weather conditions. Rose emphasizes the value of slow travel, encouraging travelers to take their time and truly connect with the landscapes, wildlife, and culture.
Whether you're dreaming of glaciers, wildlife, or wide-open spaces, this episode offers both inspiration and helpful insights for planning your own Patagonia adventure.
📖 ROSE'S PATAGONIA ARTICLES:* Things to Do in Ushuaia: https://quiltripping.com/things-to-do-in-ushuaia-argentina/ * Things to Do in Puerto Natales: https://quiltripping.com/things-to-do-in-puerto-natales/ * Three Days in Torres del Paine: https://quiltripping.com/three-days-in-torres-del-paine/ * Two days with the Punta Arenas Penguins: https://quiltripping.com/punta-arenas-penguins/ * Two Days in Los Glacieres National Park: https://quiltripping.com/two-days-in-los-glacieres-national-park/ 
MORE LINKS & RESOURCES🌐 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/ 📰 Check Out the “Quiltripping Travel” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/QUILTRIPPING-TRAVEL-WITH-ROSE-MAG/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/ 📲 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Parks & Travel," and "Nature Connection" Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Art, Heritage & Wilderness: Chaco Canyon and Aztec Ruins in New Mexico

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show features Tanya Ortega, founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF), who shares insights into the organization’s NPAF Retrospective digital magazine while exploring the cultural and natural significance of Chaco Culture National Historical Park and Aztec Ruins National Monument in Northern New Mexico.
In this engaging conversation, Tanya reflects on her personal experiences in these remarkable Southwestern landscapes, discussing their deep cultural heritage, ancestral connections, and the powerful role they play in shaping artistic inspiration. The discussion highlights how artists help preserve and interpret the stories of our national parks, bringing history, environment, and human experience to life through creative expression.
The episode also touches on the realities of navigating remote park environments, including disaster preparedness, understanding geography, and the importance of awareness when exploring wilderness areas. From stories of getting lost in nature to moments of spiritual connection, Tanya emphasizes how being present in these landscapes can deepen our understanding of both the natural world and ourselves.
As part of the ongoing Big Blend Radio NPAF Retrospective series, this episode celebrates the intersection of art, heritage, and conservation, and the essential role artists play in preserving the legacy of America’s public lands.
LINKS & RESOURCES* Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ * NEW "Artists in Parks" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qryf/ * Listen to more “Toast to The Parks & Arts” episodes: https://parks-arts.podbean.com/ 

Epic Pacific Northwest Road Trip: Bellingham, Washington to Golden, British Columbia

Celebrate the spirit of adventure with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Sip, Savor & Travel" Show featuring travel writer Linda Kissam, the Food, Wine & Shopping Diva, alongside special guests Becky Mandelbaum of Visit Bellingham and Andy Brown of Tourism Golden.
Together, they explore the scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and local culture of Bellingham and Golden—two vibrant destinations perfect for a memorable Pacific  Northwest road trip.
From hiking and wildflower viewing in North Cascades National Park to skiing near Mount Baker, and from exploring charming downtown districts to discovering Golden’s mountain landscapes and national parks, this episode is packed with inspiration for outdoor lovers and curious travelers alike.
Get tips on scenic drives, unique lodging experiences—from cozy cabins to luxury stays—and insights into the local food scenes, breweries, and community culture that make both destinations so special.
TRAVEL PLANNING LINKS & RESOURCES📖 Read Linda’s article on Substack: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/epic-pacific-northwest-road-trip 🌐 Visit Bellingham Whatcom County: https://www.bellingham.org/ 🌐 Explore Golden, British Columbia: https://www.tourismgolden.com/ 🎙 Listen to more episodes featuring Linda Kissam: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj 🌍 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," Parks & Travel," and "Road Trip Radio" Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork