Journey Jukebox with Lisa

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" Podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes us to Clarksville, Tennessee. It isn’t the Clarksville of the Mississippi Blues Trail. It’s a river city less than an hour from Nashville that deserves a day, or several, all to itself. 

Lisa shares the history, the attractions and the public art that made this one of her favorite recent trips.

You’ll meet Olympic legends Wilma Rudolph and Pat Head Summitt, and hear how Wilma insisted her hometown welcome be open to everyone. Lisa tours the 1898 Customs House Museum and Cultural Center, explores the Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement (and makes her own butter), and heads underground at Dunbar Cave State Park, a rough, unlit cave with Native American art deep inside. She also shares the colorful murals, including Last Train to Clarksville (pictured) and Clarksville Starry Night, and the brand-new Wings of Liberty Museum at Fort Campbell.

Next month, Lisa returns with Clarksville’s food, wine and spirits. Don’t forget the Journey Jukebox Spotify playlist, where Jimi Hendrix, who was stationed at Fort Campbell, shares the mix with Roy Acuff.

Learn more, see photos & get travel planning resource links: 

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Travel writer and advisor Lisa Evans, host of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" Podcast takes us to Yellowstone National Park — America's very first national park, marking 110 years of the National Park Service this year. 

This episode picks up right where her Cody, Wyoming visit left off: after basing herself in Cody, Lisa spent a day and a half looping through Yellowstone by chartered bus, and brings back a full rundown — bison herds thick enough to stop traffic for fifty cars, a moose sighting straight out of Lamar Valley, a surprise cinnamon bear, and the bighorn sheep on the way out of the park.

From there we walk through the icons — Old Faithful (which kept everyone waiting an extra thirty minutes), the otherworldly colors of Grand Prismatic Spring and the Midway Geyser Basin, the bubbling mud volcanoes, and dinner at the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel with a general manager who's spent 40 years working his way up through the park's lodging operation.

We also get honest about the less charming side of visiting a place like Yellowstone: tourists stepping over barriers at Mammoth Hot Springs, walking up to bison for a closer photo, and — in one widely reported case — Pierce Brosnan's own $1,500 fine for wandering off a boardwalk into a restricted thermal area. With national parks already stretched thin on funding and staffing, we talk about why this isn't just about rule-following — it's about keeping the wildlife wild and the parks safe for everyone who visits them.

Along the way, Lisa also looks ahead to her next stops — Clarksville, TN, and a trip up to Anacortes, WA — and shares more of the multi-generational travel trends she's seeing on the road.

🗺️ Plan your own trip: Full Yellowstone travel guide, park links, and resources: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/yellowstone-still-wild-at-110 

- Missed her last stop? Catch Lisa's Cody, Wyoming episode & article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/cody-wyoming-western-culture 

🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 

🎧 More about the Journey Jukebox Podcast:

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In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes us to Cody, Wyoming, a fascinating Western destination where the spirit of the Old West is still very much alive.

Located just outside Yellowstone National Park, Cody combines Western history, art, craftsmanship, music, rodeo, and living history in a destination that's worth more than just a quick overnight stop. Lisa shares her experiences exploring the city's many layers, from the extraordinary Western functional art at By Western Hands to the historic buildings and frontier stories of Old Trail Town.

The episode also takes us to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Cody Cattle Company, and the Cody Stampede Rodeo, where Lisa experienced her first "real" rodeo. She also discovers the city's lively music scene and talks about the musicians she added to the Journey Jukebox playlist.

With American Adventures Month and America 250 as part of the conversation, this episode is an invitation to explore a destination where American history, Western heritage, artistry, entrepreneurship, and entertainment come together. As Lisa discovered, Cody is much more than a gateway to Yellowstone—it's a destination worth spending several days exploring.

🗺️ Cody, Wyoming Travel Planning Resources

- Irma Emporium: https://www.irmahotel.com/ 

- The Chamberlin Inn - https://chamberlininn.com/ 

- Heart Mountain WWII Japanese American National Historic Landmark: https://www.heartmountain.org/ 

- Buffalo Bill Center of the West: https://centerofthewest.org/ 

- The Cody Cattle Company: https://thecodycattlecompany.com/ 

- Cody Stampede Rodeo: https://www.codystampederodeo.com/ 

- Cody Firearms Experience: https://www.codyfirearmsexperience.com/ 

- By Western Hands: https://www.bywesternhands.org/ 

- Old Trail Town: https://oldtrailtown.org/ 

🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify:

Lisa's Cody playlist includes artists such as Righteous Vendetta, Kaylen Beasley, and Luke Bell, giving the episode its own musical Western soundtrack. 

🎧 More about the Journey Jukebox Podcast: 

- Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the hidden gems, fascinating history, and scenic beauty of Vancouver, Washington—a destination that deserves a spot on every Pacific Northwest itinerary.

Located along the Columbia River just across from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver blends rich American history with vibrant waterfront experiences, beautiful parks, and easy access to some of the Northwest's most spectacular landscapes. 

Lisa shares highlights from visiting Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, the first U.S. military post in the Pacific Northwest, strolling historic Officer's Row, exploring Pearson Field, one of America's oldest operating airfields, and taking in breathtaking views throughout the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

The episode also includes a day trip into Portland to experience the famous International Rose Test Garden and historic Pittock Mansion, along with recommendations for riverfront dining, local wineries, and a stay at the stylish Hotel Indigo Vancouver Waterfront. 

Whether you're planning a Pacific Northwest road trip, exploring destinations for America's 250th birthday, or simply looking for a city that blends history, nature, music, and culinary experiences, Vancouver, Washington offers an unforgettable adventure.

🗺️ Vancouver, Washington Travel Planning Resources

🌹 Continue Your Pacific Northwest Adventure

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the fascinating culture, traditions, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Amish and Mennonite communities in Shipshewana.

From handcrafted furniture and pottery to leatherwork, quilting, dairy farming, and buggy making, Lisa shares her experiences meeting local artisans and learning how family, faith, and community shape daily life in Indiana's Amish Country. Highlights include visits to a traditional buggy maker, conversations about Amish and Mennonite history, and discovering how small businesses thrive through craftsmanship and strong community values.

The episode also explores the region's culinary traditions, farming practices, local markets, and unique cultural attractions that offer visitors a deeper understanding of one of America's most distinctive communities. As America approaches its 250th birthday, Amish Country provides a meaningful opportunity to experience traditions, entrepreneurship, and heritage that continue to shape the nation's story.

PLAN YOUR VISIT 

KEEP UP WITH LISA

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the timeless beauty, layered history, and Southern charm of Natchez, one of the oldest settlements along the mighty Mississippi River. From elegant antebellum homes and historic landmarks to river cruises, live music, and memorable culinary experiences, Natchez offers travelers a rich blend of culture and hospitality.

Lisa shares stories about the city’s Indigenous heritage, architectural treasures, and pivotal role in early American history, including visits to historic sites like Ellicott's Hill and nearby plantation properties that help tell the complex story of the region’s past. The episode also highlights local museums, Southern cuisine, and the charm of staying at historic inns like the Devereaux Shields House.

Whether you're interested in heritage travel, Mississippi River culture, music history, or classic Southern hospitality, Natchez is a destination filled with unforgettable experiences—and a meaningful stop for travelers exploring America’s history ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday.

READ LISA'S NATCHEZ TRAVEL ARTICLES:

LISA EVANS is a travel writer and photographer, travel advisor, and author of "100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die."  

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In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes us to Coastal Mississippi, where spring and summer bring a vibrant mix of festivals, fresh seafood, and scenic coastal experiences. From exciting events like Cruisin’ the Coast and Jeepin’ the Coast, to the region’s deep-rooted maritime traditions, this episode showcases the culture, community, and charm of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

A major highlight is the new Amtrak route connecting Mobile and New Orleans, offering travelers a relaxing and scenic way to explore the coast. Lisa also shares insights into the historic Blessing of the Fleet, the thriving seafood industry, and unique nature experiences like the Hummingbird Festival in Moss Point.

Whether you're planning a festival-filled getaway, a culinary adventure, or a laid-back coastal escape, this episode highlights why Coastal Mississippi is a must-visit destination.

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📚 LISA EVANS TRAVEL RESOURCES:

🗺️ COASTAL MISSISSIPPI EVENTS & TRAVEL RESOURCES:

Photos courtesy Lisa Evans & CoastalMississippi.com 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" Podcast with travel writer Lisa Evans explores the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Detroit, spotlighting two extraordinary estates—Cranbrook Educational Community and Meadow Brook Hall.

Celebrating Women’s History Month and looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday, this episode highlights the powerful legacy of Matilda Dodge Wilson, whose vision and philanthropy helped shape Meadow Brook Hall and left a lasting impact on the region.

Beyond the mansions, the conversation dives into Detroit’s dynamic story—from the rise of the automotive industry to the global influence of Motown Records and modern creative voices like Jack White. Discover how innovation, artistry, and resilience intersect in this iconic American city.

Whether you're planning a heritage trip, exploring architectural landmarks, or seeking destinations that honor the nation’s history, Detroit offers a compelling journey into America’s past, present, and future.

Lisa's Detroit Articles

Detroit Travel Resources

🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 

📖 NEW: Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel writer Lisa Evans takes listeners to historic St. Augustine, Florida — the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States and a must-visit destination as America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday.

From the iconic Castillo de San Marcos to the legendary Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, Lisa shares highlights from her immersive visit to this charming coastal city. Discover how the convenient Old Town Trolley Tours of St. Augustine makes exploring easy, why culinary tasting tours are a delicious way to experience local culture, and what makes the historic St. Francis Inn such a memorable place to stay.

The conversation also explores St. Augustine’s layered Spanish, British, and Native American heritage, its vibrant arts scene, and why history lovers will find endless stories around every corner.

Whether you're planning a heritage getaway, a food-focused trip, or looking ahead to America’s Semi-quincentennial celebrations, St. Augustine offers an unforgettable blend of history, hospitality, and coastal charm.

LISA'S ST. AUGUSTINE ARTICLES

MAGAZINE, SUBSTACK & MUSIC PLAYLIST

📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, Lisa Evans shares highlights from her recent New Year’s Caribbean cruise, exploring the cultures, landscapes, and communities of Belize, Honduras, and Cozumel. From visiting ancient Mayan ruins and learning about traditional chocolate-making, to wildlife encounters and meaningful connections with local communities, this episode celebrates travel that goes beyond the typical tourist experience.

Lisa also reflects on the importance of sustainable tourism, how travel supports local economies, and the perspective gained from engaging authentically with the people and places visited. The conversation explores life aboard a modern cruise ship—including entertainment, amenities, and relaxation—while encouraging travelers to balance comfort with cultural curiosity and responsible travel choices.

🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by travel:

Destination Highlights & Excursions

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📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST