Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark celebrates its 2-year anniversary with a special behind-the-scenes conversation exploring Jo’s journey as a travel writer, storyteller, and creator of the new "Jo Goes Everywhere!" Digital Podcast Magazine.

From global adventures spanning Louisiana to Namibia, to experimenting with sangria recipes and discovering local flavors, Jo shares her passion for travel, food, wine, and cultural exploration. She also reflects on Big Blend Radio’s 10 Travel Writer Insider Questions, offering insight into her creative process, travel philosophy, and the importance of curiosity, research, and authentic storytelling.

The conversation dives into responsible tourism, the role of personal experience in travel writing, and how digital platforms are shaping the future of storytelling. Along the way, Jo shares tips for aspiring travel writers, the value of connecting with local communities, and why every journey—near or far—adds depth to both palate and perspective.

📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine featuring her Travel Writer Insider Q&A, Sangria Recipe, and 2-year Podcast Retrospective: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/

📲 Follow Jo: https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ https://recipestravelculture.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/

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

In this thought-provoking shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin "Live & Die Happy Coach" explores the profound connection between endings, beginnings, and living a life rooted in peace and authenticity. Through a heartfelt conversation, Shelley shares insights on death, rebirth, and how embracing life’s natural cycles can lead to deeper meaning and personal growth.

Reflecting on themes of spring renewal, the discussion highlights how our beliefs shape our experiences, the importance of gratitude and presence, and how we can create a more sacred and intentional life. Shelley encourages listeners to view endings not as losses, but as powerful opportunities for transformation and new beginnings.

This episode offers a compassionate and empowering perspective for anyone navigating change, seeking peace, or looking to live more fully in the present moment.

LINKS & RESOURCES: * Read Shelley's companion article: https://bigblendlifestyle.substack.com/p/rebirth-and-renewal * Shelley's Website: https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/ * Shelley's "Soul Library" on Substack: https://shelleywhizin.substack.com/ * Shelley's latest guidebook "Daily Love Vows": https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/books-resources/daily-love-vows * Shelley's upcoming guide book, "Living with Peace": https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/books-resources/living-with-peace * Follow the Podcast: https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/books-resources/living-with-peace

This episode of the Big Daily Blend Show explores the rich history and cultural impact of marching bands, as part of our special Jazz Appreciation Month programming, with cohost and award-winning singer-songwriter Johnny Schaefer. Learn more about Johnny: https://hearjohnny.com/

Joining the conversation are two highly respected music educators, who along with Johnny, have deep roots in Porterville, California which is known globally for its marching band legacy:

* Donna Steigleder – A retired band and choir director with decades of experience teaching band, jazz band, choir, and music fundamentals across multiple schools in Porterville. Her students consistently earned top honors at festivals and competitions, and she remains active in music performance, including participation in national marching bands and community ensembles. Listen to this separate interview about Donna's career: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5M12nien0g

* James Kusserow – An award-winning band director and educator whose 37-year legacy includes leading the Porterville High School Panther Band to national recognition, performances at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, and the Tournament of Roses Parade. A National Hall of Fame Band Director, James continues to teach, perform, and mentor young musicians. Enjoy this separate interview about James' career: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oV7GJVXoyjI

Together, they share powerful stories and insights on how marching bands shape communities, inspire students, and preserve musical traditions. From halftime shows to national stages, this conversation highlights the importance of arts education, the evolution of band music, and the lifelong impact of music programs—including the deep roots of jazz within marching band culture.

ENJOY OUR SPOTIFY "MARCHING BAND" MUSIC PLAYLIST (curated with the help of Donna): https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7gKtgGhmtnRUfZzPLGTTsl?si=c7d735b5ec074700