In celebration of World Egg Day and National Cookbook Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Show features food writer, world traveler, and award-winning author Jeffrey Spear, who celebrates the humble egg — a true everyday ingredient that shines in dishes far beyond breakfast.

From deviled eggs to Scotch eggs, soufflés to custards, Jeffrey explores the incredible versatility of eggs in global cuisines. The conversation dives into their nutritional value, creative uses in cooking and baking, and their surprising role in international dishes and beverages. Along the way, he shares stories and insights from his book, "My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure," celebrating the joy of culinary exploration and the art of transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary meals.

🥚 Read Jeffrey’s article “Eggs: Unlimited Potential”: https://spearwrites.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/eggs_national_culinary_review_2.pdf

🎙️ Topics Covered: - Culinary and nutritional benefits of eggs - Creative and international egg dishes from around the world - Beverages that use eggs for texture and flavor - Cultural perspectives on eggs and their role in traditional cuisines - Fun ideas for brunches, themed parties, and creative home cooking

📚 Learn more about Jeffrey Spear and his work: https://spearwrites.com/

📖 Get his book “My Life in Gluttony: A Culinary Adventure” on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/My-Life-Gluttony-Culinary-Adventure/dp/0988919117

📺 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channel. Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, travel writer Terri Guthrie takes listeners to Greenwood, Mississippi, a historic Delta town where Southern charm meets culinary adventure. Known for its rich music history, cinematic fame as a filming location for “The Help,” and unexpected touches of luxury and hospitality, Greenwood offers visitors a soulful experience that’s both relaxing and inspiring.

Explore the walkable downtown, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and the irresistible aroma of Southern cooking. Stroll down Grand Boulevard, a mile-long stretch framed by stately historic homes, and discover the local landmarks connected to Bobby Gentry’s iconic “Ode to Billie Joe” and Blues legend Robert Johnson, whose final resting place lies nearby.

A highlight of the visit is the elegant Alluvian Hotel, where Southern hospitality meets boutique luxury. Guests enjoy spacious rooms, rooftop views, spa treatments, and delicious Southern breakfasts daily. Just steps away, the Viking Cooking School stirs up joy with hands-on classes ranging from pasta-making to Southern brunch. It’s an unforgettable experience for food lovers, couples, and friends alike—plus, guests can enjoy discounts at the Viking Gourmet Store next door.

Terri also spotlights Greenwood’s vibrant dining scene, featuring Fan & Johnny’s, helmed by James Beard-nominated Chef Taylor Bowen Ricketts, and Giardina’s Restaurant, a fine dining favorite with cozy private booths since 1936.

From music and movies to mouthwatering cuisine and Southern hospitality, Greenwood is truly the heart and soul of the Mississippi Delta.

📍 Plan Your Greenwood Getaway - Visit Greenwood: https://visitgreenwoodms.com/ - The Alluvian Hotel: https://www.thealluvian.com/ - Viking Cooking School: https://www.vikingrange.com/consumer/category/the-alluvian-viking-cooking-school - Visit Mississippi: https://visitmississippi.org/

🎧 Listen to "Travel with Terri" weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Eat, Drink & Be Merry, and Toast to The Arts podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In celebration of Dessert Month, Cookbook Month, and Emotional Wellness Month, this delightful and insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show features transformational life coach Shelley Whizin in a sweet conversation about the connection between food, emotional wellness, and personal growth.

Shelley explores how cooking—and especially chocolate—can serve as a beautiful metaphor for life. From embracing mistakes to savoring small indulgences, she reminds us that nourishment goes far beyond the table. Through reflection on creativity, relationships, and self-awareness, Shelley encourages us to approach life (and cooking) with love, joy, and an open heart.

🧘 Key Takeaways: - October is both Dessert Month and Emotional Wellness Month - Food can serve as an analogy for life and self-discovery - Small indulgences support emotional well-being - Cooking helps us navigate thoughts, feelings, and creativity - Creating space for new ideas fosters personal growth - Our relationships with food reflect our relationships with people - Mistakes can lead to creative breakthroughs - Finding joy in the process enhances emotional wellness - Self-reflection deepens our human and spiritual experience - Love and authenticity are key ingredients for fulfillment

📘 Read Shelley’s article: Bring Love and Chocolate to Your Table https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/bring-love-and-chocolate-to-your-table/

📚 Get her book What Do You Bring to the Table? on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/What-You-Bring-Table-Inspirational/dp/1087932106

🎧 Listen to Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley. New episodes drop every first Sunday: https://soul-diving-sunday-shelley.podbean.com/

📺 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life,” "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork