In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we welcome back Bay Area singer-songwriter, educator, and activist Anna Karney for a heartfelt conversation about music as a force for connection, healing, and social change.

Anna discusses her latest album "One True Song," a powerful collection of soulful folk rock and alternative singer-songwriter music rooted in themes of justice, hope, and collective action. Co-produced by Michael Rosen (Rancid), the album features an impressive lineup of Bay Area musicians including James DePrato (Chuck Prophet Band), Phillip Bennett (Jefferson Starship), Uriah Duffy (Fantastic Negrito, Whitesnake), and more. From the gentle “Suspended” to the driving “Out of Body” and the socially charged “Freedom Summer,” the album blends raw acoustic songwriting with the full energy of a rock band.

The conversation also explores Anna’s work as a choir and guitar teacher in San Francisco, the healing power of music, the importance of community, and how art bridges culture, history, and human connection. We also highlight her new holiday single, “Ring In the Holidays,” a joyful celebration of togetherness through music.

Beyond recording and performing, Anna’s career spans composing music for video games like Star Wars Galaxies and SimCity, scoring ballet and modern dance, and earning the prestigious “Dreamcatcher” Award for her impact on youth through music education.

🎶 Learn more, stream, and explore Anna Karney’s music: https://karney.org/ https://karney.bandcamp.com

This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio's "A Toast to The Arts," "Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll," "Big Daily Blend," and "Women Making History" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork Photos: Tanja Nixx

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUCCESS EXPRESS Business & Career Show, Lea Brovedani, internationally recognized as “The Trust Architect,” explores the critical role of apologies in building and restoring trust—both personally and professionally.

The conversation highlights why acknowledging mistakes, taking responsibility, and offering sincere apologies are essential leadership skills. Lea breaks down the Five Rs of an Effective Apology and explains how honesty, integrity, and clear communication strengthen relationships, while insincere or automated apologies can undermine trust. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and consider addressing any outstanding apologies before the year ends.

LEA BROVEDANI has been named one of North America’s Top Thought Leaders on Trust by Trust Across America. She is an author, speaker, and workshop facilitator, known internationally as "The Trust Architect." Her books include: * TRUST ME: Restore Belief & Confidence in an Uncertain World * TRUSTED – Secret Lessons from an Inspired Leader

🔗 Learn more about Lea’s speaking and leadership work: https://leabrovedanispeaker.com/ 🔗 Explore her trust-building resources: https://leabrovedani.com

🎙️ Follow the SUCCESS EXPRESS Podcast: https://success-express-business.podbean.com/

In celebration of National Cat Lovers Month, Big Blend Radio’s Pet Connection show explores the powerful role pets play in creativity, storytelling, and everyday life with author D.R. Ransdell. Drawing inspiration from her cats and canine companions, Ransdell shares how animals influence her writing, travel experiences, and artistic perspective.

Co-host Angela Laws of TrustedHousesitters.com joins the conversation, offering practical holiday pet care and safety tips to help pet parents keep their cats and dogs happy, healthy, and stress-free during the festive season.

This episode highlights Ransdell’s pet-inspired books: * The Cezanne Chihuahua: A French Coast Pet Art Mystery * The Secret Lives of the Pink House Cats: Prose Poems by Five Felines

🐾 Learn more about D.R. Ransdell and her books: https://www.dr-ransdell.com/ 🐾 TrustedHousesitters: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/

🎧 Listen to more “Pet Connection” episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com

🎙️ This show is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend” and "Toast to The Arts" podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork