On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Music Talks with Joey Stuckey (airing every 4th Sunday), Joey is joined by award-winning California-based singer-songwriters Johnny Schaefer and Anna Karney for a meaningful conversation centered on Music for a Fresh Start as we welcome the New Year 2026.

Together, they explore how music supports healing, gratitude, and emotional release, while fostering community connection and global unity. The discussion delves into the intersection of sacred and secular music, the power of live performance, and how music can even serve as a form of pain management. Through personal stories and shared reflections, this episode highlights authenticity, hope, and the role music plays in helping us move forward with intention and positivity.

🎧 Spotify Playlist – Music for a Fresh Start (featuring songs discussed in this episode): https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1yhrM7NTyIVZuOSPxuQOtM?si=d77818cbba524f5c

🎶 Learn more about the artists: * Joey Stuckey: https://www.joeystuckey.com/ * Johnny Schaefer: https://hearjohnny.com/ * Anna Karney: https://karney.org/

🎙️ This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s Toast to The Arts, Rants, Raves & Rock ’n Roll, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

From Roman forts and villas to Gothic cathedrals and the visionary works of architects like Inigo Jones, Sir Christopher Wren, and George Skipper, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast with Glynn Burrows explores the evolution of architecture in England and what it reveals about wealth, power, craftsmanship, and society.

Through a thoughtful conversation on design, functionality, and opulence, we examine how architectural styles reflected social status, how many builders and artisans went uncredited, and how architects eventually emerged as cultural figures shaping England’s landscape. The discussion also raises deeper questions about legacy, meaning, and how future architecture may move toward more sustainable and purposeful design.

Read Glynn’s full article: https://bigblendarts.substack.com/p/designing-england

Learn more about Glynn & book a custom tour: Norfolk Tours: https://norfolk-tours.co.uk/

Listen to Glynn’s monthly podcast (airs every 4th Saturday): English Connection Podcast: https://english-connection.podbean.com/

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts" and "Way Back When" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

From street food to fine wine, this lively group conversation explores the rich, diverse, and often misunderstood world of African cuisine through the eyes (and appetites) of seasoned travelers, writers, and food experts. Our guests share personal travel stories, cultural insights, and memorable meals from across the African continent — from communal barbecue traditions and local produce to food safety tips, traditional breakfasts, and iconic flavors like Amarula and South African wines.

The discussion highlights how history, colonial influence, geography, and local ingredients shape regional foodways, while emphasizing why the term “African food” barely scratches the surface. With stories ranging from home-cooked meals to adventurous street food encounters, this episode is a flavorful reminder that understanding a destination often begins at the table.

👥 GUESTS – GROUP DISCUSSION • Jeffrey Spear – Food Writer & Author https://spearwrites.com/

• Elsa Dixon (Van der Byl) – Travel Writer & Author https://travelswithelsa.com/

• Judy Karnia – Travel Writer & Forest Bathing Guide https://travelingnature.com/

🎧GUESTS - SOLO SEGMENTS • Barbara Redding – Travel Writer & Photographer https://barbararedding.com/

• Robert Schueller – Melissa’s Produce https://www.melissas.com/

• Linda Ballou – Travel Writer & Author http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/

• James Michael Dorsey – Naturalist & Author https://www.jamesmichaeldorsey.com/

• Debbie Stone – Travel Writer & Photographer https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/#p=1

SUPPORT EDUCATION IN AFRICA: Visit https://TheGlobalHenry.org to support the Steppes of Henry Foundation. By purchasing the books of late world traveler and author Henry Biernacki, you help fund tuition, school uniforms, and shoes for girls in need in Africa and Mexico. 100% of proceeds go directly to the children.