In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans shares her recent adventure through Memphis, Tennessee, a city where music, history, and food come together in unforgettable ways. From the bluesy beats of Beale Street and the legacy of Elvis Presley at Graceland, to the comfort food of Rendezvous and Arcade Restaurant, Memphis comes alive with character and charm.

Lisa talks about the city’s colorful street art, the timeless elegance of the Peabody Hotel, and her side trip to Tupelo, Elvis's humble birthplace. She also reflects on what makes Memphis so distinct, and why this soulful city continues to inspire travelers from all walks of life.

🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by Memphis: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648

🗺️ Read Lisa’s article on Memphis restaurants: https://www.foodieflashpacker.com/memphis-restaurants/

📚 Lisa Evans is the author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die 🌐 https://writerlisa.com/ 🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans

📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio features an inspiring conversation with Milwaukee-based singer-songwriter Peggy James, who shares the creative journey behind her soulful new album 'Til I Turn Blue. Blending Americana, country, jazz, and folk-rock, Peggy reflects on the personal stories, life experiences, and emotional depth that shape her songwriting.

Hear about how her travels and time spent in America’s heartland have influenced her music, the power of storytelling through song, and her longtime collaboration with producer and multi-instrumentalist Jim Eannelli. From themes of love and heartbreak to overcoming difficult life experiences, Peggy’s music paints a vivid soundscape of the American experience—introspective, honest, and deeply human.

'Til I Turn Blue is now available via Happy Growl Records on all major streaming platforms, with CDs available through local record stores and eBay.

More at: https://www.facebook.com/PeggyJamesMusician

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Books & Authors” Show with Books Forward features Rob Tonkin, author of the powerful memoir A**hole: Wild Stories of Trauma, Truths & Transformation (releasing July 21, 2025).

Known in the industry as “Rockin’ Rob,” Tonkin began his radio career at 14 and later produced the two-decade-long Honda Civic Tour, working with top artists like blink-182, The Black Eyed Peas, and One Direction. But behind the glitz of the music world lay a personal story of pain, survival, and transformation.

In this candid conversation, Tonkin shares what it took to face his childhood trauma—including sexual assault and the impact of a broken home—and how he found healing through self-reflection, therapy, and writing. He discusses the pressure on men to mask vulnerability, the effects of generational trauma, and the importance of emotional health, support groups like ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics), and self-care.

🔗 Pre-order the book and learn more: https://www.robtonkin.com/ 📚 Learn more about Books Forward: https://www.booksforward.com/