Parks & Travel

In this shared 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:

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

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the fascinating story of America's early motor camping movement and how it forever changed road travel, tourism, and hospitality across the United States.

As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Their featured guest is Daniel Hershberger, roadside historian, researcher, and presenter at the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration in Joplin, Missouri.

Long before today's RV parks, campgrounds, and roadside motels, adventurous motorists packed tents and supplies into their automobiles and headed out to explore America's growing network of highways. Daniel shares how motor camping evolved from a practical way to travel into a nationwide pastime that helped shape roadside tourism, local businesses, and the American road trip tradition.

The conversation also explores the evolution of tourist camps, the rise of auto courts and motels, the development of roadside hospitality, and the important role the Jefferson Highway played in connecting communities and encouraging travel across North America.

Roger Bell also shares updates on the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri. Daniel Hershberger will be one of the featured presenters, sharing his research on America's early motor camping movement and roadside tourism. The event also includes special Sociability Caravan motor tours celebrating the Jefferson Highway and Route 66. Registration is now open at https://jeffersonhighway.org/. 

The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway"—runs from Winnipeg, Canada, to New Orleans, Louisiana. Visit: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ 

LEARN MORE: 

- Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch:

- Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every fourth Thursday (except holidays). Follow the podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/ 

In this shared 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

July is Parks & Recreation Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate the beauty of America's public lands while learning how to explore them safely and responsibly.

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Podcast, award-winning travel writer Linda Ballou shares one of the most unforgettable stories from her memoir "Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales." Inspired by naturalist John Muir, Linda embarked on a horseback journey through California's magnificent High Sierra wilderness where unexpected accidents, injuries, and a dramatic helicopter rescue became powerful lessons in outdoor adventure.

As part of her Lessons Learned from Travel series, Linda discusses how to choose reputable outfitters, why guide training matters, the importance of emergency medical evacuation insurance, and how proper preparation can help travelers safely enjoy national parks, wilderness areas, and other outdoor destinations.

Whether you're planning a hiking trip, horseback ride, rafting adventure, or visit to a national or state park, this episode offers practical advice for exploring responsibly while protecting the wild places we love.

Resource Links

📖 Read Linda's companion article:

🎧 Listen to the audiobook edition of Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales:

🌍 Linda Ballou:

🎧 Subscribe:

📖 Explore the NEW Lost Angel Travel Adventures Digital Podcast Magazine:

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark celebrates the beauty and diversity of America with an unforgettable road trip through scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, cultural treasures, and memorable local experiences.

From soaring above Upstate New York in a glider and marveling at West Virginia's New River Gorge Bridge, to winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains, exploring South Carolina's Lowcountry, discovering Gettysburg's rich Civil War history, and visiting California's Point Reyes National Seashore, this episode highlights the incredible variety of destinations that make the United States so rewarding to explore.

Along the way, Jo shares travel tips, local food and wine experiences, farmers markets, and the stories of communities that preserve America's heritage, including the rich traditions of the Gullah Geechee people. Whether you're planning your next road trip or simply looking for travel inspiration, this episode celebrates the history, nature, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered across America.

📖 Read Jo's companion article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/america-road-trip 

📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/ 

📲 Follow Jo: https://haveglasswilltravel.com/  | https://recipestravelculture.com/ 

🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday. Listen:

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show features Tanya Ortega, founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF), in a fascinating conversation about Gettysburg National Military Park, its enduring artistic legacy, and the vital role artists play in preserving America's history.

As part of the ongoing Big Blend Radio NPAF Retrospective, Tanya explores how artist residencies help interpret the stories, landscapes, and emotions that make Gettysburg one of America's most significant historic places. From the iconic Gettysburg Cyclorama painting and inspiring memorials to innovative virtual reality experiences and contemporary artistic interpretations, the discussion highlights how art keeps history alive for new generations.

The conversation also delves into Gettysburg's Civil War legacy, the Gettysburg Address, the importance of preserving cultural heritage, and the power of public lands to connect us with our nation's shared history. Along the way, Tanya shares stories about the Klingel House, personal reflections on Gettysburg, and why artists continue to play an essential role in helping us understand the past while inspiring future generations.

This episode is part of the Big Blend Radio NPAF Retrospective, celebrating ten years of conversations with National Parks Arts Foundation artists-in-residence and the remarkable places that continue to inspire creativity across America's public lands.

🏛️ Plan Your Visit to Gettysburg National Military Park:

🎨 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation:

📖 Explore the "Artists in Parks" Digital Publication:

🎙️ Listen to more Toast to The Parks & Arts episodes:

Journey through the history of California's Sequoia Country as we explore the parks, people, and places that have shaped Tulare County—from giant sequoias and Indigenous heritage to military history, railroads, agriculture, and the communities that continue to preserve the region's remarkable legacy.

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's California's Sequoia Country podcast, discover the fascinating stories behind Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the General Grant Tree, Colonel Allensworth, Native American tribes, historic communities, museums, and the agricultural traditions that continue to define this remarkable region. Learn how nature, history, and culture come together to create one of California's most inspiring destinations.

Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include:

📍 PLAN YOUR VISIT: 

📡 This episode celebrates America 250 and Parks & Recreation Month (July 2026). 

Discover one of British Columbia's most welcoming mountain destinations on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Podcast with travel writer Linda Kissam, the "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva." 

Featured guest Christine Grimble of Tourism Fernie shares insider tips on exploring Fernie, a four-season destination known for spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, vibrant arts and culture, local cuisine, and wellness experiences.

Whether you're planning a scenic road trip, ski vacation, hiking getaway, or relaxing mountain escape, Fernie offers something for every traveler. Learn about the area's rich history, world-class skiing, hiking and biking trails, the Elk River, artisan food and beverage experiences, wellness retreats, and why this charming mountain community continues to attract visitors year-round.

📍Travel Resources & Inspiration

- Plan your visit: https://www.tourismfernie.com 

- Follow Linda Kissam's adventures: https://foodwinetravelchix.com/ 

- Explore Linda's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/sip-savor-travel-magazine 

- Listen to more episodes of Big Blend Radio's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/sip-savor-travel-podcast 

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jo Goes Everywhere" Travel Podcast that takes us to the Beaufort area of South Carolina, where travel writer and photographer Jo Clark explored two stunning barrier islands: St. Phillips Island and Hunting Island. 

Jo shares the story of billionaire conservationist Ted Turner, who once owned St. Phillips Island and built a five-bedroom house there that visitors can actually rent today. She also talks about South Carolina's old-growth forests, the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, the eerie beauty of Boneyard Beach, and the CCC's role in building the state park system. 

The conversation also covers Civil War and Spanish-American War history, the charm of downtown Beaufort (including where to eat and stay), the Port Royal Cypress Wetlands, and a visit to Pat Conroy's grave near Penn Center, a cornerstone of Gullah history and culture. Plus, wildlife lovers will hear about ospreys, alligators, egrets, pelicans, and more.

Read Jo's full article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/st-phillips-island-hunting-island-state-park-sc 

📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/ 

📲 Follow Jo: https://haveglasswilltravel.com/  | https://recipestravelculture.com/ 

🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday at 7pm ET. Listen: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/ 

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's Quiltripping Travel" Podcast. Travel expert, photographer and host Rose Palmer joins producer Lisa D. Smith from France — where she's in between trips — to share her unforgettable experience aboard Windstar's brand-new Star Seeker on its inaugural Alaska cruise. 

Unlike the big-ship experience, the Star Seeker's small size unlocked a side of Southeast Alaska most travelers never see.

Rose takes us deep into Misty Fjords National Monument by zodiac, up close to the Dawes Glacier in Endicott Arm, and through the authentic streets of Wrangell — one of Alaska's last truly uncrowded towns. She shares wildlife encounters including humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, bald eagles, and even a mother black bear and her cubs in Ketchikan.

Along the way, Rose explores the Tongass National Forest — one of Earth's last great coastal temperate rainforests — and reflects on why slow travel is the only way to truly experience Alaska's wild, pristine beauty.

📰 READ ROSE'S ARTCILES:

🎙️ Rose Palmer shares her travel adventures every second Thursday on Big Blend Radio. Find her at: