This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast dives into the rich culture, history, and heart of Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana (a Jefferson Highway destination), with cohosts Mary Guillory and Wilbert Carmouche of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism.

Joining the conversation are special guests Van Roy, Avoyelles Community Arts Liaison, and Lauren Harmason of the Avoyelles Arts and Humanities Council, who share how the parish honors Black history through arts, culture, cuisine, and community storytelling.

The discussion highlights the vital role of the Avoyelles Arts and Humanities Council in supporting local artists and educational programs, while exploring the lasting impact of Solomon Northup’s legacy in the region. The episode also spotlights the historic marker honoring legendary blues harp player Little Walter, and the special unveiling event that welcomed acclaimed blues guitarist Buddy Guy—underscoring Avoyelles Parish’s deep musical roots and cultural influence.

Listeners will discover how culinary traditions, creative expression, and community events work together to preserve and celebrate the parish’s diverse heritage. From meaningful cultural experiences to hidden gems beyond New Orleans, this episode invites travelers to connect more deeply with Louisiana’s living history through art, food, and local voices.

🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com

🔗 Avoyelles Arts & Humanities Council: https://AvoyellesArts.com

🔗 Solomon Northup Committee for Commemorative Works: https://SNCCW.com

🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/

LET'S NOT FORGET THE MUSIC WE TALKED ABOUT! - Little Walker: https://open.spotify.com/album/2Y2oBBKe7dnNGJrf6HAGBc?si=OFpsVJy7QK2FjKhjB2FXHg - Joe Simon: https://open.spotify.com/album/3KXu9WiHi6HlxXM9aZtdQU?si=rxBCgwpfRBORYLx6zwW6mg - Buddy Guy: https://open.spotify.com/album/7bkjnyiMG8mXzmEyfY49wD?si=pVPyLP-dQ-qgDQis55xf7Q

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Way Back When," "Historic Jefferson Highway," "Toast to The Arts," "Big Daily Blend" & "Vacation Station" Podcast Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “ABC's of Horses” equestrian podcast, Christy Wood discusses common horse vices such as cribbing, weaving, pawing, pacing, and chewing. These behaviors can signal underlying issues like boredom, separation anxiety, excess energy, or dietary imbalances.

Christy explains how these habits develop, why they matter for a horse’s physical and mental health, and what horse owners can do to manage and prevent them. The conversation emphasizes the importance of observation, honest horse management, proper nutrition, and providing adequate socialization and stimulation.

Listeners will gain practical insights into recognizing abnormal behaviors early and creating healthier environments that support equine well-being and long-term soundness.

🔗 EXPLORE MORE 📖 Check out the NEW ABC'S of Horses Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ABCS-OF-HORSES/

📰 Subscribe FREE to the NEW ABC's of Horses Podcast & Magazine Substack Channel: https://bigblendabcshorses.substack.com/

Christy Wood is a World Champion horse trainer, extreme trail obstacle champion, author, instructor, and owner of Wood N Horse Training Stables in Three Rivers, California. Learn more: https://wdnhorse.com/

🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://abcs-horses-christywood.podbean.com/

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel" Podcast Channel with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Kathryn (Kat) Anderson shares her immersive journey through Louisiana’s scenic River Parishes which are part of the historic Jefferson Highway corridor. From peaceful kayaking excursions and memorable alligator encounters to savoring regional cuisine like crawfish and char-grilled oysters, Kat highlights the beauty and benefits of slow travel.

Along the historic Jefferson Highway corridor, the River Parishes offer a welcoming community spirit, rich cultural traditions, and authentic Louisiana flavors beyond the bustle of New Orleans. Kat also discusses the evolving world of travel writing, the importance of sustainable travel practices, and how meaningful connections with local people and places create more rewarding travel experiences.

Whether you’re planning a Gulf South getaway or seeking inspiration to travel more intentionally, this conversation celebrates the joy of slowing down and truly experiencing a destination.

🎧 Read Kat’s article here: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/exploring-louisianas-river-parishes

🌐 Follow Kat Anderson: https://coffeeandmascara.org/

📘 Check out the brand-new Big Blend Radio “Travel Food & Wine” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/