On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Way Back When" History Podcast, we explore the powerful story of the Amazon Army March of 1921 in Southeast Kansas. Thousands of women — armed not with weapons, but with pots, pans, and unshakable courage — marched to support miners demanding fair working conditions. This occurred on the historic Jefferson Highway.

Featured guests are:

- Linda Knoll – Board Trustee of Miners Hall Museum and one of the founders. She is the playwright of Army of Amazons, the catalyst for the "Solidarity" mural project (1999–2000). Linda’s work has been featured through the Humanities Kansas Speakers Bureau, honored with a Civil Rights Award by the NEA, and even nominated for an Emmy through PBS. More: https://www.amazonarmy.com/ 

Although this conversation premieres for Labor Day, the story of the Amazon Army is timeless — a reminder of how ordinary women made extraordinary contributions to justice, equality, and workers’ rights.

📖 Chapters / Timestamps

🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Women Making History," "Jefferson Highway," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

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:

- 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 

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 

Celebrate National Sandwich Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Burger Bliss Series, where we explore burger culture from its origins to unique flavors and favorite local spots. From peanut butter “Elvis Burgers” and nostalgic drive-in cheeseburgers to gourmet creations and jalapeño bacon stacks, our guests share their tasty stories and culinary connections.

Featured Guests

Episode Highlights

Listen to Burger Bliss 1 & 2:

Timestamps

Celebrate National Sandwich Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Burger Bliss Series, we head into the kitchen (and fire up the grill!) to explore the art of cooking burgers — from creative vegetarian options to turkey, venison, and the classic all-American patty. Along the way, we dig into the joy of cooking, the importance of simplicity, cultural twists on burgers around the world, and even the future of food sustainability.

👉 Listen to Burger Bliss – Part One: https://eat-drink-merry.podbean.com/e/hamburger-happy-hour/ 

Featured Guests & Recipes:

* Shelley Whizin – Transformational Life Coach & author of What Do You Bring to the Table?, sharing her Turkey Meatloaf Burger Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/shelleys-savory-and-sweet-turkey-meatloaf-burgers/ 

* Chef Ivan Flowers – 5-Star Chef & Culinary Instructor, on crafting the perfect patty and his Classic American Hamburger Recipe: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/classic-american-burger-recipe/ 

* Ryan Slough – Travel writer (Wanderers Compass) sharing tips and health benefits of cooking flavorful Venison Burgers: https://www.wandererscompass.com/ 

More Burger Recipes from the Big Blend Archives:

Chapters:

🎧 This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s Eat, Drink & Be Merry and Big Daily Blend Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

🔥 Stay tuned for Part Three of our Burger Bliss Series, where we’ll wrap things up with even more juicy burger fun. 👉 Subscribe to Big Blend Radio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio 

Celebrate the end of American Adventures Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Historic Jefferson Highway” Show, we travel to Greenville, Texas, a vibrant community located along the historic Jefferson Highway. Featured guests Stacy Foley (Tourism Manager) and Micah McBay (Community Engagement Director) from Greenville Tourism share what makes this destination a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the “Pines to Palms Highway” from Winnipeg to New Orleans.

Discover Greenville’s thriving arts and culture scene, including the historic Greenville Municipal Auditorium that has hosted world-famous performers, as well as community theater and live music venues. Foodies will love the city’s unique mom-and-pop restaurants, winery, and bustling farmers market, while travelers can stay in chic downtown lofts, cozy treehouses, trusted national brand hotels, and other family-friendly lodging options.

Outdoor lovers will find plenty of parks, trails, and recreational activities, and year-round festivals – like the Festival of the Arts – highlight the creativity and hospitality of the community. Greenville is also known for its budget-friendly travel options, with many free events and attractions that welcome visitors from near and far.

This conversation also highlights how the Jefferson Highway connects communities like Greenville, supporting local tourism, cultural heritage, and regional pride.

🔗 Plan Your Visit to Greenville, Texas: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/ 

🔗 Learn More about the Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 

🔗 Explore the Upcoming Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: https://jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/ 

📅 Follow the “Historic Jefferson Highway” Podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s California Employment Law Podcast, San Diego attorney Ward Heinrichs is joined by Christina Liao Tong from The Law Offices of Jane Oak.

Together, they unpack the growing complexities of immigration law in California amidst increased ICE enforcement. The conversation addresses employer compliance with I-9 forms, the risks of paying workers under the table, and the legal challenges tied to undocumented workers. They also explore employee rights, proactive strategies for handling ICE visits, and the broader impact immigration policies have on families, including issues of child labor and trafficking.

About Ward Heinrichs: http://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ 

🎧 More episodes: https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/ 

🔊 This episode is also part of the Success Express Podcast Channel on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, author Sarah May discusses her inspiring memoir, She Journeys: A Memoir of Heartbreak and Homecoming (She Writes Press, Sept. 9, 2025). Through her personal story, Sarah shares how she overcame heartbreak, trauma, and toxic relationships, ultimately creating a life rooted in freedom, gratitude, and love.

In this heartfelt conversation, Sarah reflects on the importance of nature, rituals, and gratitude in the healing process. She opens up about reclaiming personal power, embracing vulnerability, and building healthy relationships, while encouraging others to take responsibility for their own happiness. By sharing her journey, Sarah hopes to empower listeners to find hope, healing, and renewal in their own lives.

💚 This episode is part of our National Wellness Month and Happiness Happens Month coverage, highlighting the power of resilience, healing, and choosing joy.

Learn more at: www.shejourneys.us 

Key Takeaways:

Chapters:

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Global Adventures with Debbie Stone,” travel writer Debbie Stone shares her colorful and cultural journey through Seville, Spain.

From the lively April Fair with its week-long celebrations, to the architectural wonders of the Seville Cathedral and Real Alcázar, Debbie highlights the history, energy, and beauty that make the city unforgettable. She also explores the fiery passion of flamenco, the flavors of Seville’s culinary scene, and the artistry of Triana ceramics, reflecting on how travel connects us to culture, history, and community.

📌 Key Takeaways:

📖 Read Debbie’s article:

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/ 

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station” Channel. Explore the network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In celebration of Family Fun Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show with travel writer Terri Guthrie explores the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa in Texas. From exciting scavenger hunts and seasonal attractions to the resort’s expansive River Bluff water experience and lazy river, Terri highlights why this destination is perfect for multi-generational getaways.

The conversation also covers San Antonio’s rich history, family bonding through shared experiences, gourmet and casual dining options, and luxurious touches like the resort’s golf course. Whether you’re traveling with kids, parents, or grandparents, this is a year-round resort escape that offers something for everyone.

📖 Read Terri’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/multigenerational-getaway-jw-marriott-san-antonio-hill-country-resort/ 

🛎️ Plan your San Antonio trip: https://www.visitsanantonio.com/ 

🎙️ Listen weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 

🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, longtime fair lending and CRA expert Josh Silver discusses his new book, Ending Redlining: Through a Community-Centered Reform of the Community Reinvestment Act (Armin Lear Press, March 25, 2025). With the first major overhaul of CRA rules in nearly three decades set to take effect in January 2026, Silver explains what these changes mean for banks, communities, and the future of economic justice.

From the rise of online banking and cryptocurrency to the challenges of gentrification and housing affordability, Silver shares why a community-centered approach to banking reform is essential to ensuring fair lending and reinvestment in historically underserved neighborhoods. He also highlights the role of community banks, the power of documenting success stories, and how everyday citizens can take action to foster lasting change.

Learn more about Josh Silver and his work: