This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California’s Sequoia Country” podcast explores the incredible federal parks and public lands of Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, the Giant Sequoia National Monument, and Pixley National Wildlife Refuge. From towering giant sequoias and rich wildlife habitats to cultural heritage and night skies, discover what makes this region so special.

Featured guests from the Sequoia Tourism Council include: * Holly Streit – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: https://nps.gov/seki/index.htm * Suzanne Bianco – Visit Visalia: https://www.visitvisalia.com/

This conversation delves into the natural wonders, history, and biodiversity of California’s Sequoia Country. Highlights include the General Grant Tree, a national shrine honoring veterans, birding during migration seasons, iconic places like Crescent Meadow, the Trail of 100 Giants, and Crystal Cave, as well as seasonal tips for winter and spring visits. The episode also touches on Indigenous cultural heritage, sustainable tourism, and special events like the Dark Sky Festival, inviting listeners to experience these public lands responsibly and respectfully.

Plan your visit: https://www.discoverthesequoias.com/

This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station," and "Nature Connection" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Select Photos courtesy of Visit Visalia.

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Nature Connection" Podcast, we explore the joy of birding in the Great Lakes region with expert birder, educator, and author Dexter Patterson, host of the Bird Joy podcast and co-founder of Wisconsin’s BIPOC Birding Club.

Dexter shares insights from his new book, Birds of the Great Lakes: Best Little Book of Birds, an accessible and beautifully designed guide to more than 100 commonly occurring bird species found throughout this diverse and

vital region. From winter birding surprises and seasonal migration cycles to bird behavior, habitat diversity, and responsible birding practices, this conversation highlights how birdwatching fosters deeper connections with nature while supporting conservation and inclusivity.

Listeners will also learn about family-friendly birding, creating bird-friendly environments with native plants, and top birding destinations like Horicon Marsh and the Milwaukee lakefront. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just getting started, this episode celebrates the idea that birding truly is for everyone.

🔗 More about Dexter: https://www.wiscobirder.com/

🔗 Follow Dexter’s Bird Joy Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebirdjoypod/

🔗 Follow Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection Podcast: https://nature-connection.podbean.com/

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” show, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares seven inspiring travel picks for 2026, encouraging listeners to plan ahead and explore destinations that offer unforgettable landscapes, outdoor adventures, and meaningful travel experiences.

From Australia’s iconic Great Ocean Road and the alpine charm of Telluride, Colorado, to the wild beauty of Glacier Bay, Alaska, the red rock magic of Sedona, epic wildlife encounters in Botswana, autumn splendor in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and the volcanic landscapes of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Linda highlights what makes each destination special and why now is the time to start dreaming—and planning—your next adventure.

📝 Read Linda’s travel article: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/linda-ballou-shares-seven-great-travel-picks-for-2026-nows-the-time-to-see-the-world/

🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures: https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com

🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST 🎙️ Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com

🎨 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Parks & Travel” Podcast Channels. Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Photo courtesy Linda Ballou & Big Island Visitor Bureau