Eat, Drink and Be Merry

World Ag Expo: The Global Heart of Agriculture & Agribusiness in Tulare, California

The World Ag Expo® is the largest annual agricultural show of its kind, and this episode of Big Blend Radio takes listeners inside its global reach and local impact. 
Featured guests Donnette Silva Carter, CEO of the Tulare Chamber of Commerce, and Megan Lausten, Marketing Director of the International Agri-Center®, share insights into why Tulare County stands at the heart of agriculture—feeding communities across the nation and around the world.
Held February 10–12, 2026, at the International Agri-Center® in Tulare, California, World Ag Expo® provides a powerful platform for networking, education, and business development in one of the most productive agricultural regions in the United States. The event hosts more than 1,200 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge equipment, emerging technologies, and innovative solutions across 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space, drawing an estimated 100,000 attendees from over 70 countries each year.
In this conversation, Megan and Donnette explore how innovation and technology are transforming modern agriculture, the importance of public engagement in understanding food systems, and the significant economic impact the expo delivers to the local community. The discussion also highlights the role of volunteers, educational seminars, international connections, and local food vendors—including popular features like the wine and cheese pavilion—that make World Ag Expo a truly immersive agricultural experience.
Whether you’re involved in farming, agribusiness, economic development, agritourism, or simply curious about where our food comes from, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the world’s most influential agricultural events.
Featured Guests:– Donnette Silva Carter, CEO, Tulare Chamber of Commerce: http://www.tularechamber.org/ – Megan Lausten, Marketing Director, International Agri-Center®: https://www.internationalagricenter.com/ 
Plan Your Visit:- World Ag Expo: https://www.worldagexpo.com/ - Sequoia Tourism Council: http://discoverthesequoias.com/ 

Sip, Savor & Explore Steuben County: Wine, History & Small Town Life

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we welcome back Dave DeGolyer of Explore Steuben to explore the rich wine culture, fascinating history, and small-town charm of Steuben County in New York’s Finger Lakes region.
The conversation traces the evolution of winemaking in the Finger Lakes — from early table grape production in Hammondsport dating back to 1829 to today’s award-winning wineries that are earning national and international attention. Dave emphasizes the philosophy of “sip and savor,” encouraging travelers to slow down, engage with winemakers, and appreciate the stories, people, and sense of place behind every bottle.
Beyond wine, the episode highlights Steuben County’s notable historical legacy, including its connection to aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss, who helped shape American aviation from Hammondsport, and author Mark Twain, whose presence adds a literary thread to the region’s cultural story. These layers of history underscore why the Finger Lakes is not only a wine destination, but also a place where innovation, creativity, and community intersect.
Listeners will also discover how Steuben County offers scenic outdoor adventures, welcoming small towns, vibrant local cuisine, and meaningful human connection — making it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking authenticity, reflection, and renewal.
🌐 Plan your Finger Lakes adventure with Explore Steuben: https://exploresteuben.com/ 
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 
🌐 Follow the Food, Wine & Travel Show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 
📰 Check out the brand-new Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 

Morgan Hill, California: Where Agriculture, Wine & Community Thrive

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food Wine & Travel" Show with International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, travel writer and photographer Cori Solomon joins the show to explore the rich agricultural roots, evolving wine scene, and vibrant community of Morgan Hill, California. From its early farming history—including the once-thriving mushroom industry—to today’s sustainable wineries and farm-to-table dining culture, Morgan Hill reveals itself as a destination deeply connected to the land.
Cori shares insights from her travels and reporting, highlighting how local winemakers, chefs, and growers work together to shape the region’s identity. The conversation also touches on the role of the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) in fostering professional connections and storytelling that brings destinations like Morgan Hill to life.
Cori Solomon is an award-winning writer and photographer based in Los Angeles. Her blog, The Written Palette, features eclectic stories focused on travel, wine, art, architecture, and pets—always uncovering the story behind the chef, winery, winemaker, or artist. She serves as President and Membership Chair of IFWTWA and is a member of NATJA, SATW, CWA, and DWAA. Learn more about Cori and her work:https://writtenpalette.com 
📰 Cori’s Morgan Hill story is also featured in the brand-new Big Blend Radio Travel Food & Wine Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1 
🌐 Plan Your Morgan Hill Adventure: https://visitmorganhill.org/ 
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 
🌐 Follow this podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 
🌐 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Wine Trends & Egg Rolls: Pairing Wine with Global Flavors

In this thought-provoking episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wine Time with Peggy" podcast, the conversation explores how wine is about more than what’s in the glass — it’s about savoring moments, building connections, and enjoying time with friends. Peggy Fiandaca, co-owner of Arizona’s LDV Winery, discusses wine trends, wellness, and the evolving ways people experience wine today.
The episode dives into the influence of Blue Zones and longevity lifestyles, the growing popularity of white wines and rosés, and how moderation and wellness trends are shaping wine consumption. Peggy also shares insights into the art of wine blending, sustainability in winemaking, and why understanding your personal wine preferences enhances tasting experiences.
Listeners will also hear how cultural influences shape food and wine pairings, why cooking techniques matter when pairing wine with global flavors, and how supporting local wineries helps communities thrive — especially amid industry challenges like tariffs and shifting markets.
Check out WINE & BITES, Big Blend's "Wine Time With Peggy" Podcast & Recipe Magazine featuring Peggy's recipes, articles, wine pairing tips, recipes, and past podcast episodes:  https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/fmlb/ 
🔗 Helpful Links & Resources:- LDV Winery: https://ldvwinery.com - Wine & Bites Magazine:  https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/fmlb/ - Wine Time with Peggy Podcast: https://wine-time-peggy.podbean.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" channel - explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork  

Discovering Yuma, Arizona: Snowbirds, Sunshine & Southwest Flavor

Ring in the New Year with Donna George, owner of The Peanut Patch, in this upbeat episode of Big Blend Radio’s "The Peanut Patch" Podcast. As snowbirds arrive in Yuma, Arizona for sunshine and warm winter days, Donna shares why this desert destination is such a magical place to visit during the cooler months.
The conversation explores Yuma’s rich cultural heritage, thriving agricultural community, and farm-to-table focus, along with favorite attractions like scenic hiking trails, the historic Yuma Territorial Prison, and the joy of road tripping through the region. Donna also highlights the warm, nostalgic shopping experience at The Peanut Patch, where visitors can enjoy farm-fresh peanuts and nuts, candies, pickles and preserves, fresh homemade fudge, locally grown Medjool dates, and even a classic date shake.
Planning a winter visit? This is also the perfect time to enjoy free guided tours at The Peanut Patch, offered at 10:00am on Tuesdays and Fridays during January, February, and March—a fun way to learn more about the store’s history, products, and local agriculture. From seasonal events to authentic food experiences, this episode celebrates why winter is the ideal time to explore Yuma and support local businesses.
🛒 Shop year-round: https://thepeanutpatch.com/ 
🍽️ Get inspired in the kitchen with Donna’s recipes: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing-category/donna-george/ 
🎧 Listen and follow the podcast (new episodes every 1st Friday): https://peanut-patch.podbean.com/ 
📲 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Podcast channel. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

A Culinary Journey Through Africa: Food, Culture & Travel Stories

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 & Authorhttps://spearwrites.com/ 
• Elsa Dixon (Van der Byl) – Travel Writer & Authorhttps://travelswithelsa.com/ 
• Judy Karnia – Travel Writer & Forest Bathing Guidehttps://travelingnature.com/ 
🎧GUESTS - SOLO SEGMENTS• Barbara Redding – Travel Writer & Photographerhttps://barbararedding.com/ 
• Robert Schueller – Melissa’s Producehttps://www.melissas.com/ 
• Linda Ballou – Travel Writer & Authorhttp://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ 
• James Michael Dorsey – Naturalist & Authorhttps://www.jamesmichaeldorsey.com/ 
• Debbie Stone – Travel Writer & Photographerhttps://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. 

Big Blend Radio's "Holiday Happy Hour Party" 2025

Raise a glass and join the fun on Big Blend Radio’s Annual Holiday Happy Hour Party 2025, a festive roundtable celebration filled with cocktails, travel tales, holiday foods, music, and meaningful conversations about gift-giving and community.
In this spirited holiday episode, an all-star lineup of Big Blend Radio guest experts share their favorite holiday traditions, memorable travels, and seasonal culinary delights. The conversation also explores sustainable celebrations, thoughtful gift-giving (including the art of re-gifting), and why experiences and connections often matter more than material gifts.
The episode wraps up with a joyful and creative collaboration as everyone comes together to design the perfect Christmas card — a heartfelt reflection of shared experiences, gratitude, and community during the holiday season.
Featured Big Blend Radio Friends: * Author & Food Writer Jeff Spear: https://spearwrites.com/ * Travel Writer & Photographer Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com/ * Author & Editor Cliff Garstang: https://cliffordgarstang.com/ * Writer & Book Industry Expert Eva Eldridge: https://evaeldridge.com/ * Singer-Songwriter Johnny Schaefer: https://hearjohnny.com/ * Author & Environmental Activist Cheryl Leutjen: https://cherylleutjen.com/ 
🍸 Cheers to holiday happy hours, shared stories, and celebrating the season together! 

Holiday Ham Spirals, Roulades, and More with Chef Ivan Flowers

Chef Ivan Flowers—5-Star Chef and Culinary Instructor—returns to Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Show to share a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer: Holiday Ham Spirals. Perfect for entertaining, this recipe highlights how simple techniques and creative flavor combinations can elevate holiday cooking.
In this episode, Chef Ivan breaks down the versatility of roulades, the role of pickling in enhancing flavor and texture, and how using unexpected ingredients can make a dish memorable. The conversation also explores cultural influences in cooking, budget-friendly meal planning, sustainable kitchen practices, and the joy of cooking together during the holidays.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for an easy appetizer with wow factor, this episode proves that anyone can cook—and have fun doing it.
Holiday Ham Spirals Recipe (Substack): https://open.substack.com/pub/bigblendfooddrink/p/holiday-ham-spirals