Award-winning and bestselling author and maritime historian Eric Jay Dolin joins Big Blend Radio's "Way Back When" history podcast to discuss his compelling new book, "The Wreck of the Mentor: A True Story of Death, Despair, and Deliverance in the Age of Sail," a gripping work of narrative history featured by The New York Times as one of "The Nonfiction Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2026."

Drawing from extensive archival research, sailors' journals, and Indigenous accounts, Dolin recounts the remarkable true story of the American whaleship Mentor, which wrecked on a reef near the Palau Islands in 1832.

What followed was an extraordinary saga of survival, leadership, cultural misunderstandings, compassion, violence, and resilience that unfolded over four years and across the Pacific. In this fascinating conversation, Dolin also explores the importance of the American whaling industry, life during the Age of Sail, cross-cultural encounters between American sailors and the people of Palau, and how maritime history offers a deeper understanding of America's growth and its place in the wider world.

Along the way, he discusses the challenges of researching forgotten stories, the importance of historical perspective, and why understanding both the triumphs and tragedies of history helps us better understand ourselves today.

Learn more about Eric Jay Dolin and his books at http://www.ericjaydolin.com/

Check out the Big Blend book review and episode highlights: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/the-wreck-of-the-mentor

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first woman to drive around the world.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba—the northern gateway of the historic Jefferson Highway—Aloha Wanderwell (born Idris Hall) left boarding school in France at age 16 to join Walter Wanderwell's around-the-world automobile expedition. What followed was an astonishing life of global exploration, filmmaking, cultural discovery, and history-making road trips across six continents.

In this engaging conversation, Laurel shares what inspired her to tell Aloha's story after a decade away from publishing, the historical research behind the novel, why historical fiction is vital to preserving women's history, and how travel helps us better understand the world and one another. The discussion also explores Aloha's Canadian roots, her connection to the historic Jefferson Highway, and why this remarkable woman deserves to be remembered alongside history's greatest explorers.

Learn more about Laurel Corona and her books at https://www.LaurelCorona.com

Check out our Big Blend book review of "Aloha Wanderwell Takes the Wheel" by Nancy J. Reid: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/aloha-wanderwell-takes-the-wheel

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Whether you're naturally intuitive, spiritually curious, or simply wondering if there's more to life's coincidences than meets the eye, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Quality of Life" podcast offers an engaging and thoughtful conversation with author Katherine Marie about her new book, "High Five Your Spirit Guides: Manifest the Life You've Always Wanted with the Help of Your Spirit Guides."

Drawing from her background in computers and IT, Katherine brings a refreshingly practical perspective to spirituality, showing how intuition, mindfulness, journaling, meditation, tarot, crystals, and simple daily rituals can help people become more aware of the guidance already present in their lives. Rather than asking listeners to abandon logic, she encourages curiosity, self-reflection, and openness to recognizing meaningful signs, synchronicities, and opportunities.

In this inspiring discussion, Katherine shares:

- What spirit guides are—and how they differ from angels and ancestor spirits

- Why intuition deserves more attention in our busy, technology-driven lives

- How synchronicities, repeating numbers, and everyday experiences may carry meaningful messages

- Easy exercises anyone can practice to strengthen intuition

- The connection between manifestation, gratitude, focus, and daily rituals

- Why balancing logic with spirituality can lead to greater confidence, purpose, abundance, and joy

Learn more about Katherine Marie, her books, newsletter, and upcoming events at: https://www.innercompassmedia.com/

Whether you're a longtime believer or simply curious, this conversation offers practical ideas for cultivating greater awareness, inner peace, and a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you.

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In celebration of America 250, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures" Podcast explores the fascinating history, culture, and outdoor spirit of Boise, Idaho, with travel writer Debbie Stone. While many travelers know Idaho for its rugged landscapes and potatoes, Boise reveals a much richer story—one shaped by frontier history, Basque immigrants, Native heritage, and a thriving arts community.

Discover why Boise's historic Old Idaho Penitentiary is one of the city's most compelling attractions, learn about the nation's largest Basque community and its enduring cultural legacy, tour the elegant Idaho State Capitol, and explore museums, public art, and the inspiring World Center for Birds of Prey. Debbie also shares favorite restaurants, local shopping, and the welcoming hospitality that make Boise an ideal destination for history lovers, culture seekers, and outdoor adventurers alike.

Plan your visit:

- https://visitboise.com/

- https://www.innat500.com/

- Read Debbie's accompanying article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/boise-idaho-surprises

- Listen to Debbie's "Global Adventures" Podcast:

https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/global-adventures-with-debbie-stone

- Explore Debbie's Global Adventures Digital Magazine:

https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/global-adventures-travel-magazine

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Discover the best of New Orleans, Louisiana, with travel journalist Terri Guthrie on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Podcast. Building on her previous tour of the iconic Roosevelt Hotel, Terri shares her personal favorite places to experience the authentic soul of the Crescent City—from legendary jazz clubs and unforgettable Creole cuisine to historic neighborhoods, cocktail culture, and must-see attractions.

Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another adventure, Terri offers insider recommendations for where to stay, eat, listen to live music, and experience the rich history and culture that make New Orleans one of America's most beloved destinations.

In this episode:

- Why The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel makes the perfect home base

- Traditional and upscale jazz venues including Preservation Hall, Jazz Playhouse, Fritzel's European Jazz Pub, Three Muses Jazz Club, and Commander's Palace Jazz Brunch

- Outstanding dining experiences at Restaurant R'evolution, Delacroix, and Commander's Palace

- The legendary Sazerac Bar and Sazerac House Experience

- Touring the Garden District in a vintage Cadillac

- Behind the scenes at Mardi Gras World

- Visiting the acclaimed National WWII Museum

- Riding Amtrak's new Mardi Gras Service along the Gulf Coast

This episode is a wonderful companion to Terri's exclusive interview inside The Roosevelt Hotel: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/the-roosevelt-new-orleans

Plus, check out the Official Sazerac Cocktail Recipe: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/travel-new-orleans-with-terri

Keep up with Terri's travels: https://TravelwithTerri.com

Listen to the Travel with Terri Podcast: https://TravelwithTerri.com/podcast

Read The Luxe Explorer digital magazine: https://TravelwithTerri.com/magazine

This episode also celebrates America's rich cultural heritage as part of America 250, highlighting one of the nation's most iconic cities where music, food, architecture, transportation history, and storytelling come together.

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In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Before They Vanish" Podcast, award-winning author and explorer James Michael Dorsey shares unforgettable stories from his acclaimed book, "Baboons for Lunch: And Other Sordid Adventures."

From joining the Hadza hunter-gatherers of Tanzania on a baboon hunt to unexpected cultural experiences in China, Dorsey reflects on the humor, risks, and life lessons that come from immersing himself in remote cultures around the world.

The conversation explores why he seeks out vanishing societies, how these experiences have shaped his writing, and what he's learned about storytelling, spirituality, and living in the present. James also offers a preview of his upcoming journey to Mongolia, where he'll live with nomadic eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains.

James Michael Dorsey is an award-winning author, photographer, explorer, and cetacean specialist who has traveled extensively through 56 countries. His work focuses on documenting remote cultures, endangered traditions, and marine wildlife through books, photography, lectures, and personal narratives.

Learn more about James Michael Dorsey:

https://jamesmichaeldorseyauthor.com/

Listen to Big Blend Radio's "Before They Vanish" Podcast:

https://before-they-vanish.podbean.com/

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Travel writer, travel lecturer, and longtime Big Blend Radio guest David Kriso joins us for a special "Getting to Know You" episode, sharing the personal stories behind his passion for exploring the world.

From growing up with model railroads and becoming an award-winning travel writer to working with cruise lines and inspiring audiences through his travel lectures, David reflects on the experiences that shaped both his career and his love of discovery. Along the way, he talks about Disney, Amtrak, music, future travel dreams, memorable family traditions, and the life lesson that has guided him since his teenage years: failure leads to success.

David also answers Big Blend Radio's signature seven questions, revealing his spirit animal, bucket-list destinations, favorite music, travel inspirations, and even the one food he'll always avoid.

David Kriso has written for numerous travel and transportation publications and regularly presents engaging travel programs at libraries and organizations throughout the Northeast. Learn more about his travel writing, reviews, travel tips, and upcoming adventures at https://dektraveljournal.com/.

Visit the new Big Blend Media House at https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/

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On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Music Talks with Joey Stuckey" Podcast, Joey shares highlights from an unforgettable musical journey to Los Angeles, where he had the rare opportunity to record on Les Paul's original recording console while exploring one of the most legendary legacies in music history.

From touring historic recording spaces and collaborating with fellow musicians to reflecting on the lasting impact of innovation in music production, Joey offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at preserving music history while creating new music. Along the way, he discusses the influence of Les Paul, the importance of recording technology, the value of collaboration, and how these experiences continue to inspire his work as a musician, producer, educator, and Macon, Georgia's official Music Ambassador.

Whether you're a musician, recording enthusiast, music historian, or simply love great stories about creativity and innovation, this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into one artist's remarkable Los Angeles music adventure.

🎸 About Joey Stuckey

Joey Stuckey is an award-winning blind guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, educator, and owner of Shadow Sound Studio in Macon, Georgia. Learn more: https://www.joeystuckey.com/

📺 Follow Big Blend Radio:

https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio

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