Nature Connection Radio

Holler – A Graphic Memoir of Resistance with Denali Sai Nalamalapu

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection show features climate storyteller and activist Denali Sai Nalamalapu, author of “Holler: A Graphic Memoir of Rural Resistance” (Timber Press / Hachette, May 13, 2025).
Based in Southwest Virginia, Nalamalapu is a powerful new voice in climate storytelling and a leader in one of Appalachia’s most courageous environmental resistance movements. Holler chronicles the fight against the Mountain Valley Pipeline through the eyes of six local activists—a teacher, a nurse, a photographer, and more—who dared to challenge corporate power and government complicity in the heart of coal country.
The conversation explores:- How visual storytelling makes climate issues more accessible.- The diverse perspectives and skill sets that strengthen grassroots movements.- The importance of community involvement in resisting fossil fuel expansion.- How innovation, education, and personal stories can drive climate action.- Why self-care and balance are vital for sustaining long-term activism.
Blending personal insight, lived experience, and stunning visual storytelling, Nalamalapu offers a moving and empowering look at resilience, resistance, and the future of the climate movement. More at: https://denali-sai.com/ 
🎧 This Nature Connection episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Quality of Life" and "Rants, Raves & Rock" Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Bears in Crisis: Exposing Florida’s Trophy Hunt Agenda

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection Show, we expose the urgent threat facing Florida’s black bears: the proposed return of trophy hunting. Our featured guests—Adam Sugalski, founder of OneProtest, and Kathleen Walls, travel writer and animal rights activist—delve into the history, controversy, and consequences surrounding bear trophy hunting in the state.
Despite widespread public opposition, Florida officials are considering allowing trophy hunting again—this time with even more extreme and controversial methods. Proposed regulations include using dogs to chase down bears, and allowing bow hunting, both of which raise serious concerns about ethics, suffering, and safety. These changes reflect a broader shift: from traditional, regulated practices to high-tech and high-cruelty tactics that prioritize trophies over wildlife protection.
Key issues discussed include:- The cruelty of using dogs to hunt bears, often resulting in prolonged chases and violent encounters.- The dangers and suffering caused by bow hunting, which can leave bears wounded and dying slowly.- How modern technology—like GPS collars and high-powered optics—makes killing easier, reducing fair chase and undermining conservation claims.- The false narrative that trophy hunters are conservationists.- The economic motivations behind these changes, often benefiting landowners and developers.- How urban expansion is shrinking bear habitat, making coexistence—not killing—essential.- The growing role of public activism and protest in challenging these proposals and defending wildlife.
This conversation calls attention to the real motives behind trophy hunting and stresses the importance of ethical wildlife management rooted in science and compassion. If you're passionate about protecting animals and opposing cruelty disguised as tradition, this episode will inform, outrage, and inspire you to take action.
🎧 Learn more and get involved: https://www.beardefenders.org/ 📖 Read Kathleen Walls' article, The Bear Facts: https://www.americanroads.net/bear_5-9-2025.htm 🌱 Visit OneProtest: https://www.oneprotest.org/ 

Greening Los Angeles: The Transformative Work of North East Trees

This episode of Big Blend Radio shines a spotlight on North East Trees, an award-winning urban greening nonprofit committed to building climate resilience and advancing environmental equity in underinvested communities throughout Los Angeles.
Featured Guests:🌳 Joe Laskin – Director of Development, North East Trees – https://www.northeasttrees.org/ 🌿 Cheryl Leutjen – Author of “Love Earth Now” and “Madness on the Brink of Eco-Apocalypse," and Board Director, North East Trees – https://cherylleutjen.com/ Recognized as a 2025 Nonprofit of the Year by the California Association of Nonprofits, North East Trees is making a lasting difference through urban forestry, biodiversity enhancement, and workforce development programs. From planting over 100,000 trees to transforming schoolyards into green spaces, the organization demonstrates how trees can heal communities, foster connection with nature, and combat climate change.
📺 Learn more in this PBS special: Combatting Climate Change with Trees – https://www.pbs.org/video/combatting-climate-change-with-trees-tcffrw/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel", "Quality of Life", and "Garden Gossip" Channels. Keep up with all Big Blend Radio shows at: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork *** Images by Alex Michel, courtesy of North East Trees

Corpus Christi, Texas: The Birdiest City in the USA

Celebrate National Parks & Recreation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show featuring travel writer Terri Guthrie, who shares her recent adventures in Corpus Christi, Texas—officially known as the Birdiest City in America!
From vibrant wetlands and hundreds of bird species to the famous annual birding festival, Corpus Christi is a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Terri highlights the Texas State Aquarium’s rescue and education programs, wildlife-rich Padre Island National Seashore, and the legendary King Ranch, a leader in conservation and habitat restoration.
Beyond its natural wonders, Corpus Christi offers a flavorful mix of cultural and culinary delights, from fresh Gulf seafood to live music and true Texas hospitality.
📖 Read Terri’s article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/corpus-christi-the-birdiest-city-in-america/ 🛎️ Plan your trip: https://www.visitcorpuschristi.com/ 🎙️ Listen weekly: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ 🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Parks & Travel, Nature Connection, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Happy Hour Picnic Party in Nature

Join us for a delightful "Happy Hour Hang Out" on Big Blend Radio as we celebrate National Picnic Month and Parks & Recreation Month! This engaging episode explores the pure joy of picnicking, the profound benefits of connecting with nature, and our favorite spots and foods for an outdoor feast from Arizona to England. 
We dive into the calming practice of forest bathing, the therapeutic power of nature's sounds, and the breathtaking beauty of Arizona's diverse landscapes, from vibrant wildflower seasons to dramatic monsoon experiences. Discover how nature can positively impact mental health and the simple pleasure of sharing picnics with loved ones, whether in your local park or while traveling the world.
Featured Guests:* Judy Karnia – Travel writer and forest bathing guide. Learn more at https://travelingnature.com/ * Eva Eldridge – Traveler, writer, editor, and book publishing expert. Discover more at https://evaeldridge.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Eat, Drink & Be Merry,” and “Parks & Travel” podcasts. Explore our network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Clamor – Tackling the Global Noise Crisis with Author Chris Berdik

Noise is everywhere—disrupting our sleep, increasing our stress, and wrecking our focus—yet it's often dismissed as a minor nuisance. But what if it’s a major environmental issue hiding in plain sound?
This episode of Big Blend Radio's Nature Connection Show features author and science writer Chris Berdik, who dives into the surprising science and urgent implications behind his new book, "Clamor: How Noise Took Over the World―and How We Can Take It Back."
Berdik discusses the widespread impact of noise pollution on human health, wildlife, and our planet's natural soundscapes. The conversation covers:- Why everyday noise deserves serious measurement and attention- How chronic noise affects mental and physical health- The role of urban planning and community action in reducing noise- Personal insights and compelling stories uncovered through Berdik’s research
"Clamor" is more than just a wake-up call—it’s a rallying cry to recognize noise as an environmental threat on par with air and water pollution.
📘 Learn more about Chris Berdik and his work at: https://www.chrisberdik.com/ 
🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's Quality of Life Show.🌐 Explore our full network of shows here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Explore the Nocturnal World with Charles Hood

Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with this captivating episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Nature Connection" Show, featuring naturalist and author Charles Hood, who discusses his new book “Nature at Night: Discover the Hidden World That Comes Alive After Dark” (Timber Press).
From glowing oceans to jungle predators and migrating birds under the stars, Hood explores the wonders of nocturnal wildlife through vivid storytelling and over 240 stunning photographs. With humor and ecological insight, he invites readers and listeners to see the night in a whole new light.
With a lifetime of travel to 80 countries and all 50 U.S. states, Charles has seen 6,000 bird species, survived a bubonic plague scare, and written 20 books. His passion for the natural world shines in this lively and insightful conversation.
🎧 This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection and Big Daily Blend channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 🌐 About Charles: https://hypersphere-orange-y8n3.squarespace.com/ 

Birding in the UK: Top Spots for Birdwatching

Celebrate National Go Birding Day with this special episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" show, featuring Glynn Burrows, owner of Norfolk Tours in England. Glynn shares his insights into birding in the UK, from spotting Kingfishers along the Norfolk Broads to witnessing Puffin colonies off the coast of Wales, and even catching breathtaking starling murmurations along the East Coast during migration season.
You can also read Glynn’s article about where and when to see the various birds that live in the British Isles and visit during the spring and autumn migrations: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/birding-in-the-uk/  
Glynn appears on Big Blend Radio every fourth Saturday covering England as a travel destination as well as family history research. Follow his podcasts here:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm2IK_1Zfh-xJ9eEVYhqqC3Z  
This episode is also part of Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" and "Nature Connection" podcast series. Explore our network of shows at: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork