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This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show is packed with news from the road. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Fresh home from the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference in Joplin, Missouri, Roger shares the highlights. The conference marked 100 years since Joplin was promoted as the crossroads of the Jefferson Highway and Route 66, and brought together Route 66 Association members, tourism bureaus, travel writers, classic car clubs, and vintage trailer owners from every state and province on the route. Hear about CeCe Otto's highway songs, Daniel Hershberger's 1920s tourist camp, 20-year-old Model T enthusiast Ian Borges camping in full period style, a trivia championship, and the pre-conference tour's surprise stop at the tiny post office in Opolis, Kansas. Plus, meet Flat Stinky, the conference's new travel companion. Roger also announces the 2027 Jefferson Highway Association conference, the association's 14th, coming to St. Cloud, Minnesota, July 19–21, 2027, with a possible post-conference run north toward Itasca State Park, Bemidji, and beyond. Lisa then announces the launch of the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide, a new monthly digital guide debuting October 1 and publishing the first of every month. The first issue is ad-free and celebrates the members and partners who helped make it happen, with haunted history along the highway, a directory, events, a Google Map for everything featured, and a new column called "The Notables." spotlighting a notable person born that month from each region of the route. Learn more about the Jefferson Highway Association: https://jeffersonhighway.org/  Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/  The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday. Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" series was recorded back in April with Phyllis Bitner, Chair of the Miners Hall Museum Foundation in Franklin, Kansas. Phyllis shares how Miners Hall Museum grew out of the 2003 tornado that leveled the town's community center, why the museum's twelve exhibit categories focus as much on the immigrant experience as the equipment, and the story behind the Page 618 Walking Dragline — a massive, one-of-eighteen-ever-built machine now being moved piece by piece into a new free public park along the Jefferson Highway. She also talks about the historic 1.7-mile Franklin-Arma sidewalk, the site of the 1921 Amazon Army March, and why the museum's research library keeps surprising visitors with their own family history. Then Phyllis plays a round of our Lucky Seven Questions — sharing her spirit animal, her NASCAR bucket-list dream, a life lesson from her father, and more. P.S. — Phyllis will be one of four storytellers at "Night at the Friendly Tavern" on September 3rd, part of Pittsburg, KS's 150th birthday celebration, and Miners Hall Museum is a featured stop on the Jefferson Highway Association's "Miner's Drive" caravan, September 17–19. Resource Links: - Miners Hall Museum: https://www.minershallmuseum.com/  - Night at the Friendly Tavern Tickets (Sept 3):  https://memorialauditorium.ludus.com/show_page.php?show_id=200542773  - Jefferson Highway "Miner's Drive" Caravan (Sept 17–19): https://jeffersonhighway.org/event-6661501  - Jefferson Highway Travel Guide — Miners Hall Museum page: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/travel-directory/kansas/miners-hall-museum

Discover Shelby County, Kentucky, just east of Louisville, with Janette Marson, President and CEO of ShelbyKY Tourism, on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). Known as the Saddlebred Horse Capital of the World, Shelby County offers an authentic Central Kentucky experience where horses, bourbon, food, farms, history, shopping and outdoor adventures come together. Janette takes us inside the region's remarkable horse culture, including more than 100 Saddlebred farms, Thoroughbred farms and the largest Icelandic horse farm in North America. We also explore the area's bourbon heritage, including Bulleit and the special mother-daughter team behind Jeptha Creed Distillery. Food is another big part of the story, from Kentucky barbecue and bourbon mash-fed livestock to Talon Winery, local restaurants, farm-to-table dining and family farms such as Mulberry Orchard and Gallrein Farm. We also talk about historic downtown Shelbyville and Simpsonville, antique shopping, family attractions, horseback riding, lakes, fishing, camping, golf, festivals and the region's growing appeal for road trippers and pet-friendly travelers. And because Shelby County is a four-season destination, Janette shares ideas for visiting throughout the year—from bourbon tours and horse farms to fall pumpkins, winter shopping and spring and summer horseback riding. - Explore Shelby County, Kentucky: https://www.visitshelbyky.com/   - Learn More About IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/   - Follow the Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/   - Check out the "Travel, Food & Wine" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

Award-winning author Laurel Corona joins Big Blend Radio to discuss her captivating new historical novel, "Aloha Wanderwell Takes the Wheel," inspired by the extraordinary true story of pioneering adventurer Aloha Wanderwell—the first woman to drive around the world. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba—the northern gateway of the historic Jefferson Highway—Aloha Wanderwell (born Idris Hall) left boarding school in France at age 16 to join Walter Wanderwell's around-the-world automobile expedition. What followed was an astonishing life of global exploration, filmmaking, cultural discovery, and history-making road trips across six continents. In this engaging conversation, Laurel shares what inspired her to tell Aloha's story after a decade away from publishing, the historical research behind the novel, why historical fiction is vital to preserving women's history, and how travel helps us better understand the world and one another. The discussion also explores Aloha's Canadian roots, her connection to the historic Jefferson Highway, and why this remarkable woman deserves to be remembered alongside history's greatest explorers. Learn more about Laurel Corona and her books at https://www.LaurelCorona.com  Check out our Big Blend book review of "Aloha Wanderwell Takes the Wheel" by Nancy J. Reid: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/aloha-wanderwell-takes-the-wheel

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the fascinating story of America's early motor camping movement and how it forever changed road travel, tourism, and hospitality across the United States. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Their featured guest is Daniel Hershberger, roadside historian, researcher, and presenter at the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration in Joplin, Missouri. Long before today's RV parks, campgrounds, and roadside motels, adventurous motorists packed tents and supplies into their automobiles and headed out to explore America's growing network of highways. Daniel shares how motor camping evolved from a practical way to travel into a nationwide pastime that helped shape roadside tourism, local businesses, and the American road trip tradition. The conversation also explores the evolution of tourist camps, the rise of auto courts and motels, the development of roadside hospitality, and the important role the Jefferson Highway played in connecting communities and encouraging travel across North America. Roger Bell also shares updates on the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri. Daniel Hershberger will be one of the featured presenters, sharing his research on America's early motor camping movement and roadside tourism. The event also includes special Sociability Caravan motor tours celebrating the Jefferson Highway and Route 66. Registration is now open at https://jeffersonhighway.org/.  The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway"—runs from Winnipeg, Canada, to New Orleans, Louisiana. Visit: https://jeffersonhighway.org/  LEARN MORE:  - Plan your own Jefferson Highway adventure with the new Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  - Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/  - Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every fourth Thursday (except holidays). Follow the podcast: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark celebrates the beauty and diversity of America with an unforgettable road trip through scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, cultural treasures, and memorable local experiences. From soaring above Upstate New York in a glider and marveling at West Virginia's New River Gorge Bridge, to winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains, exploring South Carolina's Lowcountry, discovering Gettysburg's rich Civil War history, and visiting California's Point Reyes National Seashore, this episode highlights the incredible variety of destinations that make the United States so rewarding to explore. Along the way, Jo shares travel tips, local food and wine experiences, farmers markets, and the stories of communities that preserve America's heritage, including the rich traditions of the Gullah Geechee people. Whether you're planning your next road trip or simply looking for travel inspiration, this episode celebrates the history, nature, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered across America. 📖 Read Jo's companion article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/america-road-trip  📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/  📲 Follow Jo: https://haveglasswilltravel.com/  | https://recipestravelculture.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/  🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday. Listen: https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Robin O'Neal Smith shares her unforgettable journey along the Kansas Gunsmoke Trail, exploring legendary Old West towns, fascinating museums, historic landmarks, and the stories that helped shape the American frontier. Travel through iconic destinations including Dodge City, Abilene, Wichita, and Hays, where you'll discover attractions like Boot Hill Museum, Old Cowtown Museum, the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, Keeper of the Plains, Fort Hays, and more. Robin also discusses how television classics like Gunsmoke helped preserve interest in America's western heritage while highlighting the real history behind these remarkable communities. Perfect for history lovers, road trippers, and anyone planning an unforgettable Kansas adventure, this episode celebrates the people, places, and stories that continue to define the American West—making it a fitting listen as America commemorates its 250th anniversary. Read Robin O'Neal Smith's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/kansas-gunsmoke-trail  Plan your own Kansas Gunsmoke Trail adventure: https://www.kansasgunsmoketrail.com/  Learn more about Robin O'Neal Smith: https://robinonealsmith.com/  Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  Check out the Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

Discover one of British Columbia's most welcoming mountain destinations on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Podcast with travel writer Linda Kissam, the "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva."  Featured guest Christine Grimble of Tourism Fernie shares insider tips on exploring Fernie, a four-season destination known for spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, vibrant arts and culture, local cuisine, and wellness experiences. Whether you're planning a scenic road trip, ski vacation, hiking getaway, or relaxing mountain escape, Fernie offers something for every traveler. Learn about the area's rich history, world-class skiing, hiking and biking trails, the Elk River, artisan food and beverage experiences, wellness retreats, and why this charming mountain community continues to attract visitors year-round. 📍Travel Resources & Inspiration - Read Linda's article: Fernie BC: A Must Do Road Trip Adventure: ps://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/fernie-british-columbia-road-trip  - Plan your visit: https://www.tourismfernie.com  - Follow Linda Kissam's adventures: https://foodwinetravelchix.com/  - Explore Linda's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/sip-savor-travel-magazine  - Listen to more episodes of Big Blend Radio's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/sip-savor-travel-podcast

Celebrate Pittsburg, Kansas' 150th Anniversary Year with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast exploring the history, culture, food, music, and heritage of Crawford County in Southeast Kansas—just in time for America 250, the Route 66 Centennial, and the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Conference. Featured guest is Chris Wilson, Marketing & Communications for Explore Crawford County and Treasurer of Southeast Kansas Tourism. Travel the original Jefferson Highway through Crawford County as Chris shares stories about historic road alignments, original concrete pavement, century-old iron bridges, Lincoln Park's Jefferson Highway campsite, and the remarkable preservation efforts taking place throughout the region. The conversation also explores Pittsburg's rich coal mining heritage, the famous Amazon Army march, Big Brutus, colorful murals, public art, museums, genealogy research, and the diverse immigrant cultures that helped shape Southeast Kansas. Discover why the area is famous for its legendary fried chicken restaurants, live music, local breweries, scenic backroads, and authentic small-town experiences. Don't forget the Crossroads of America Centennial Conference, taking place September 19–22, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, including the conference's popular Sociability Caravan motor tours celebrating the Jefferson Highway and Route 66, including Crawford County!  Learn more about Crawford County in Southeast Kansas: https://explorecrawfordcounty.com/  The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway"—runs from Winnipeg, Canada, to New Orleans, Louisiana. More: https://jeffersonhighway.org/  Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  📰 Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/  The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every fourth Thursday (except holidays). Follow the show at: https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer, columnist, and author Cindy Ladage discusses her new book, "True Farm Girl Adventures," and shares stories celebrating rural America, agricultural heritage, small-town communities, and the people who keep these traditions alive. From antique tractors and agri-tourism experiences to Route 66 road trips, hidden museums, historic figures, county fairs, and unexpected backroad discoveries, Cindy highlights the authentic experiences that connect travelers to America's heartland. As part of National Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Month, this conversation also celebrates the farmers, agricultural traditions, and rural communities that help feed the nation while preserving an important part of America's cultural heritage. The episode also ties into the spirit of America 250, showcasing the stories, landscapes, and local histories that help tell America's ongoing story. LINKS & RESOURCES: - New Book, "True Farm Girl Adventures": https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/2026/05/30/true-farm-girl-adventures-in-a-book-form/  - Story: "My Encounter with James Dean": https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/2020/09/24/my-encounter-with-james-dean/  - Follow Cindy's adventures: https://travelingadventuresofafarmgirl.com/  - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  - Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  - Big Blend Radio's "Travel Food & Wine" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

Celebrate the beauty, culture, and adventure of Washington State on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Podcast with travel writer Linda Kissam, the "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva." Featured guest Matt Wakefield of Visit Tacoma-Pierce County shares insider tips on exploring Pierce County, a diverse destination where mountains, waterfront communities, vibrant cities, charming small towns, and outdoor adventures come together. From the iconic Mount Rainier to Tacoma's thriving arts scene, unique museums, scenic hiking trails, local culinary experiences, and hidden treasures, discover why Pierce County is an ideal destination for road trippers, outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, and culture seekers alike. PLAN YOUR VISIT - Read Linda's article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/pierce-county-tacoma-summer-travel-guide  - Plan Your Visit to Pierce County: https://www.visitpiercecounty.com/  FOLLOW LINDA'S ADVENTURES - More about Linda:  https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/travel-writer-linda-kissam  - Explore Linda's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Digital Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/sip-savor-travel-magazine  - Listen to more episodes of Big Blend Radio's "Sip, Savor & Travel" Podcast: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/sip-savor-travel-podcast  Video and photo footage courtesy of Visit Tacoma-Pierce County.

Just in time for National Road Trip Day (May 22), this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show explores the history, heritage tourism, and community spirit of Butler, Missouri, a vibrant destination along the historic Jefferson Highway. As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. Featured guests are Samantha Stump of the Butler Chamber of Commerce and Doris Fuller of the Butler Historic Preservation Commission. From colorful murals and historic downtown sites to upcoming celebrations and classic car culture, this engaging conversation highlights how Butler is preserving its Jefferson Highway legacy while welcoming modern travelers and road trippers. Learn about the upcoming Jefferson Highway Car Show in Butler on June 13, along with the community’s efforts to promote heritage tourism through storytelling, signage, preservation projects, and downtown revitalization.  The episode also explores Butler’s fascinating history, including its recognition as the first city west of the Mississippi River to have electricity, its connection to Americana travel culture, and the importance of small-town experiences along America’s historic highways. Roger Bell also shares updates on the upcoming Crossroads of America Centennial Celebration taking place in Joplin, Missouri, from September 19–22, 2026, including details about the event’s sociability caravan motor tours. Registration is now open at https://jeffersonhighway.org/  The discussion also highlights how communities along the Jefferson Highway continue to attract visitors through local events, murals, dining experiences, and authentic hospitality that celebrates the spirit of the open road. The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/  Learn more about Butler, Missouri: - Butler Chamber of Commerce: https://butlerchamber.com/  https://www.facebook.com/butlerchamberofcommerce  Butler Historic Preservation Commission: - https://www.facebook.com/butlerhistoricpreservationcommission/  Plan your journey with the Jefferson Highway Travel Guide: - https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/  Subscribe to the Jefferson Highway Dispatch: - https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/  The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Victoria Burch of the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau shares what makes Chautauqua County a memorable year-round destination for travelers of all ages. Located in Western New York near Lake Erie, Chautauqua County offers a unique mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, history, wine country experiences, and family-friendly fun. The conversation highlights the region’s scenic lakes, hiking trails, winter sports, and charming small towns, along with its thriving craft beverage scene through the Grape & Grain Trail. Discover attractions such as the National Comedy Center, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, and the renowned Chautauqua Institution, known worldwide for its arts, education, and cultural programming. The episode also explores outdoor adventures like boating on Chautauqua Lake, discovering the natural beauty of Panama Rocks Scenic Park, and experiencing local history at destinations like the Robert H. Jackson Center. Whether you’re interested in wine tasting, comedy, history, arts, or nature escapes, Chautauqua County offers something for every traveler. LINKS & RESOURCES - Plan your visit: https://www.tourchautauqua.com/  - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  - Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  - Check out the Big Blend Radio "Travel Food & Wine" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1

Recorded onsite in Central Louisiana, this fun and shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel Avoyelles" Podcast features hosts and producers Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith alongside Wilbert Carmouche and Mary Guillory of the Avoyelles Commission of Tourism. Hear about Nancy and Lisa’s experiences exploring Avoyelles Parish—from local food and cultural traditions to historic sites, festivals, and the welcoming spirit of the community. The conversation highlights the region’s rich heritage, including stories connected to Solomon Northup, the historic Jefferson Highway, local traditions, and the pride residents have in sharing their culture with visitors. Listeners also get to know Wilbert and Mary on a more personal level through Big Blend’s signature “Getting to Know You” questions, covering passions, life lessons, bucket-list dreams, creativity, and community connection. From Cajun and Creole influences to art, agriculture, festivals, and storytelling, this episode captures the heart and soul of Avoyelles Parish—where heritage, hospitality, and community come together. 🔗 Plan your visit: https://TravelAvoyelles.com  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Sunday. Listen: https://travel-avoyelles.podbean.com/  🔗 Explore Big Blend Radio & Media: https://BigBlendMediaHouse.com

On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Noah Howard of Tour Cayuga shares the flavors, history, and scenic beauty that make Cayuga County a standout destination in the Finger Lakes region. Known as “History’s Hometown,” Cayuga County offers a rich blend of wine tourism, craft beverages, local cuisine, outdoor recreation, and community-driven experiences. The conversation explores the area’s wineries, breweries, distilleries, and artisan food producers, while highlighting the growing importance of sustainable tourism and authentic local connections. Hear about charming small towns, scenic road trip routes, lakeside picnics, fishing adventures, culinary festivals, and farm-to-table dining experiences that showcase the region’s creativity and hospitality. Noah also shares insights into the Finger Lakes wine culture, local craft beer scene, and why travelers are increasingly drawn to slower, more meaningful travel experiences. The episode even imagines what a culinary journey through Cayuga County might have looked like for Anthony Bourdain, celebrating the stories and passion behind the region’s food culture. 🌐 Plan your Cayuga County getaway: https://tourcayuga.com/  *** Listen to Last Year's Episode on Harriet Tubman: https://youtu.be/Ypwug8wo_hM?si=g-pHCQL8N1fYtO7_ *** Watch the Foodie Fun in Cayuga County: https://www.tourcayuga.com/cayuga-cuisine/ 🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/  🎧 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/  📰 Check out the Big Blend Radio "Travel Food & Wine "Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1