Celebrate National Reading Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts" Podcast where we dive into the fascinating world of mystery writing and crime fiction with the Tucson Sisters in Crime who will be attending the upcoming Tucson Festival of Books (March 14-15, 2026 in Tucson, Arizona).

Featured guests include writer and editor Eva Eldridge, and authors Marty Eberhardt, D.R. Ransdell, Paula Winskye, and Anna Dalhaimer Bartkowski, who share insights into their latest books, the creative process behind crafting crime stories, and the inspiration they draw from real places, history, and human psychology.

From the symbolism hidden within mysteries to the role of humor and dark themes in crime fiction, this lively discussion also highlights the power of author networking, the publishing journey, and the excitement surrounding one of the country’s premier literary events.

LEARN MORE: - Eva Eldridge: https://evaeldridge.com/ - DR Ransdell: https://www.dr-ransdell.com/ - Marty Eberhardt: https://martyeberhardt.com/ - Anna Dalhaimer Bartkowski: https://annabartkowski.com/ - Paula F. Winskye: http://www.winskyebooks.com/

The Tucson Festival of Books takes place at the University of Arizona and is one of the largest book festivals in the United States, bringing together authors, readers, and publishing professionals for a weekend of panels, book signings, and literary celebration. More: https://tucsonfestivalofbooks.org/

The Tucson Sisters in Crime is a Southern Arizona chapter of the international organization Sisters in Crime, featuring authors, writers, readers, librarians, editors, publishers, agents, and booksellers with a passion for the mystery genre. More: https://www.tucsonsistersincrime.org/

In this 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

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/