In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, travel writers Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough journey to Kyoto, Japan, a destination widely regarded as the cultural heart of the country. Known for its historic temples, shrines, castles, and timeless traditions, Kyoto offers travelers a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern life.

Joelle and Ryan share insights from their experiences exploring Kyoto’s spiritual sites, learning about geisha traditions, and savoring local cuisine, including sake and Japanese whiskey. Along the way, they discuss the importance of etiquette, cultural respect, and open-minded curiosity when traveling in Japan.

From culinary discoveries to historical landmarks and meaningful cultural encounters, this episode highlights how immersive travel can deepen understanding and appreciation for one of the world’s most culturally rich destinations.

📝 Read their featured article: https://bigblendwandererscompass.substack.com/p/kyoto

🌐 Follow Ryan & Joelle’s adventures: https://www.wandererscompass.com/

🎧 Listen to the Wanderers Compass podcast: https://wandererscompass.podbean.com/

📖 Explore the Big Blend Radio Wanderers Compass Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/WANDERERS-COMPASS-MAG-2026/#p=1

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark explores the powerful stories preserved at the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

This special episode celebrates the second anniversary of the "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast and also recognizes Women's History Month, highlighting the importance of community storytelling and the role women play in preserving cultural heritage.

Founded in 1768, New Smyrna Beach is one of Florida’s oldest cities. Walking along the quiet residential streets, visitors might easily pass a small white church on North Duss Street. Yet inside the historic Sacred Heart/St. Rita Church is something extraordinary—a living archive of African American history in coastal Volusia County.

Through photographs, artifacts, oral histories, and community voices, the museum shares stories of resilience, culture, and community leadership. This episode also explores the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the renowned Florida Highwaymen artists, and the power of genealogy and local storytelling in preserving history for future generations.

Be sure to watch Jo’s social media channels for the upcoming launch of her new digital podcast magazine, "Have Glass Will Travel," which will feature travel stories, articles, and highlights from the "Jo Goes Everywhere!" podcast.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES - Learn more about the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum https://www.blackheritage.org/

- Watch for Jo’s upcoming article about the museum on Mainly Museums https://mainlymuseums.com/

- Watch the New Smyrna Beach travel episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/egIxyOk8o7M?si=TpO56JJBgyT301j4

- Read Jo’s New Smyrna Beach travel article https://recipestravelculture.com/new-smyrna-beach-endless-salty-sunshine/

- Follow Jo Clark: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/

- New episodes air every 2nd Sunday: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us to Ketchum, home of the beloved Trailing of the Sheep Festival.

The conversation explores the deep-rooted history of sheep herding in Idaho and how this iconic festival celebrates ranching heritage, Basque culture, folk traditions, and the enduring importance of sheep and wool in the region. Sharon shares highlights from the festival’s parades, cultural events, and food experiences, along with insider tips on dining, shopping, and exploring Ketchum’s scenic mountain setting.

Hear about outdoor adventures, hiking opportunities, and the town’s rich literary and cultural connections—including its ties to Ernest Hemingway—making Ketchum a rewarding destination well beyond festival weekend.

🐑 Learn more about the festival and plan your visit: https://trailingofthesheep.org/

📖 Read Sharon's Article on Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/trailing-of-the-sheep-festival

📖 Check out Sharon's new Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1

🌍 Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com

🎙️ Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com

🎧 This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s Wander the World with Sharon, Vacation Station, Way Back When, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork