In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel writer Lisa Evans takes listeners to historic St. Augustine, Florida — the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States and a must-visit destination as America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday.

From the iconic Castillo de San Marcos to the legendary Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, Lisa shares highlights from her immersive visit to this charming coastal city. Discover how the convenient Old Town Trolley Tours of St. Augustine makes exploring easy, why culinary tasting tours are a delicious way to experience local culture, and what makes the historic St. Francis Inn such a memorable place to stay.

The conversation also explores St. Augustine’s layered Spanish, British, and Native American heritage, its vibrant arts scene, and why history lovers will find endless stories around every corner.

Whether you're planning a heritage getaway, a food-focused trip, or looking ahead to America’s Semi-quincentennial celebrations, St. Augustine offers an unforgettable blend of history, hospitality, and coastal charm.

LISA'S ST. AUGUSTINE ARTICLES - Rovology.com: https://rovology.com/united-states/a-history-lovers-guide-to-visiting-st-augustine-fl/ - Wander with Wonder: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/things-to-do-in-st-augustine-fl/ - She Buys Travel: https://shebuystravel.com/st-francis-inn-bed-and-breakfast-st-augustine-fl/

MAGAZINE, SUBSTACK & MUSIC PLAYLIST * NEW: Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 * Subscribe to Journey Jukebox on Big Blend Media's Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/ * Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596

📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/

As Gettysburg, Pennsylvania prepares to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) explores how history, community, and culture come together in one of the nation’s most iconic destinations.

Featured guest Mary Grace Kauffman of Destination Gettysburg shares how the town is launching a year-long series of events leading up to 2026, honoring not only the Battle of Gettysburg but also the people, agriculture, and stories that continue to shape the community today. The conversation highlights Gettysburg’s deep roots in farming—especially apple production—alongside its growing culinary scene, sweet treats, and diverse lodging options.

Listeners will also learn about immersive experiences such as the famous Gettysburg Cyclorama, a new scenic train experience across the battlefield, Eisenhower’s historic home, and the future opening of the Gettysburg Black History Museum. Family history research, heritage tourism, and meaningful storytelling play a central role in how Gettysburg invites visitors to connect personally with America’s past while celebrating its future.

This engaging discussion shows why Gettysburg is more than a historic site—it’s a living, welcoming community ready to host one of the most significant milestones in U.S. history.

🌐 Plan your visit: https://destinationgettysburg.com/

📰 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/

🌐 Follow the Food, Wine & Travel Show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Parks & Arts” Show celebrates the 93rd anniversaries of Death Valley National Park and Saguaro National Park, while spotlighting the impact of artist residencies through the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF).

As part of the first installment of the Big Blend Radio NPAF "Artists in Parks" Retrospective, Tanya Ortega (NPAF Founder) and Lisa D. Smith (Big Blend Radio) explore how artists-in-residence draw inspiration from desert landscapes, dark skies, and extreme environments, often transforming their original creative concepts through immersive experiences in the parks. The conversation reflects on the historical significance of Death Valley and Saguaro, emphasizing the role of art in preserving cultural heritage and deepening public appreciation for national parks.

The episode highlights photographers, textile artists, and musicians whose work demonstrates the powerful connection between art and nature, while also underscoring the importance of community engagement and continued support for artist residency programs. This discussion sets the stage for the ongoing NPAF Retrospective series, celebrating artists, parks, and the enduring legacy of creativity in America’s public lands.

• 2019: Sarah Weeden

• 2019: Harun Mehmedinovic (Front Cover Photo Feature)

• 2020: Cody Brothers

Saguaro National Park

• 2024: Chelsea Bighorn – Textile / Fiber Art / Sculpture

• 2024 & 2025: Rachel Mari Kimber – Singer-Songwriter / Musician

LINKS & RESOURCES: - Big Blend Radio's ARTISTS IN PARKS Retrospective Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qryf/#p=1 - Subscribe on Substack (Free): https://theartsinparks.substack.com/ - National Parks Arts Foundation: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel," "Toast to The Arts," and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork