Nature Connection Radio

Wild, Wonderful Alaska: A Windstar Cruise Through The Last Frontier

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's Quiltripping Travel" Podcast. Travel expert, photographer and host Rose Palmer joins producer Lisa D. Smith from France — where she's in between trips — to share her unforgettable experience aboard Windstar's brand-new Star Seeker on its inaugural Alaska cruise. 
Unlike the big-ship experience, the Star Seeker's small size unlocked a side of Southeast Alaska most travelers never see.
Rose takes us deep into Misty Fjords National Monument by zodiac, up close to the Dawes Glacier in Endicott Arm, and through the authentic streets of Wrangell — one of Alaska's last truly uncrowded towns. She shares wildlife encounters including humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, bald eagles, and even a mother black bear and her cubs in Ketchikan.
Along the way, Rose explores the Tongass National Forest — one of Earth's last great coastal temperate rainforests — and reflects on why slow travel is the only way to truly experience Alaska's wild, pristine beauty.
📰 READ ROSE'S ARTCILES:🔗 Sailing Off the Beaten Path on a Windstar Cruise to Alaska: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/windstar-cruise-to-alaska 🔗 Windstar Star Seeker Review: https://quiltripping.com/windstar-star-seeker-review/ 🔗 Rose's Full Alaska Cruise Article: https://quiltripping.com/windstar-cruise-to-alaska/ 
🎙️ Rose Palmer shares her travel adventures every second Thursday on Big Blend Radio. Find her at:https://quiltripping.com https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/rose-palmer-travel-writer-photographer 

When Travel Becomes a Pilgrimage: Lessons from the White Lions of South Africa

What happens when you travel — not for sightseeing, but for the soul?In this shared and heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio's "Soul Diving Sunday" Show, Live & Die Happy Coach Shelley Whizin shares her extraordinary pilgrimage to South Africa, where she spent time on the sacred land of the White Lion Global Protection Trust alongside lionhearted leadership author Linda Tucker and spiritual activist Andrew Harvey.
Shelley traveled in real physical pain — dealing with a bulging disc and sciatica — yet refused to stay home. What unfolded was a profound journey of healing, stillness, grief, and transformation. From a shattering 40-minute ceremony invoking Mother Earth and the white lions, to sitting in silence with wild lions on the African savanna, to confronting the brutal reality of canned hunting farms, this conversation goes deep into what it means to truly be present.
Big Blend Radio host Lisa Smith — who has lived in both South Africa and Kenya — joins Shelley for a richly layered conversation about the cycle of life, the web of nature, trophy hunting, and the healing power of stepping outside your comfort zone.
LINKS & RESOURCES- Shelley's Article: https://shelleywhizin.substack.com/p/the-lionesses-the-mothers-and-me - Shelley's Substack: https://shelleywhizin.substack.com - Shelley's Website: https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/ - Shelley's Podcast: https://www.liveanddiehappy.com/podcast - More from Big Blend Radio: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

Waterfalls, Wildflowers & Wonders: Exploring Asheville's Outdoor Paradise

In celebration of Great Outdoors Month, this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast features cohosts Steve and Karen Wilson, owners of the Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, sharing their favorite ways to experience Asheville's natural beauty. From spectacular waterfalls and colorful wildflowers to fascinating mushrooms, butterflies, and wildlife encounters, this conversation highlights why Western North Carolina is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Known for its stunning mountain scenery, Asheville is surrounded by incredible outdoor destinations including the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and the North Carolina Arboretum. Steve and Karen discuss seasonal highlights, the best times to see rhododendrons and native wildflowers in bloom, where to discover some of the region's most beautiful waterfalls, and how visitors can responsibly enjoy Western North Carolina's outdoor treasures.
Along the way, they also touch on local music, community events, and why Asheville remains one of America's most beloved destinations for nature lovers, hikers, photographers, birdwatchers, and outdoor adventurers.
Whether you're planning a summer getaway or simply looking for inspiration to spend more time outside, this episode celebrates the beauty, adventure, and wonder of the great outdoors in and around Asheville.
LINKS & RESOURCES-  The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ - Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ADVENTURES-IN-ASHEVILLE/ - Adventures in Asheville Podcast: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ 

Travel Writer & Storyteller Elaine Masters: Following Wonder Through Travel, Nature & Life

In this special "Getting to Know You" episode of Big Blend Radio, we celebrate National Creativity Day and reconnect with longtime Big Blend friend, travel writer, author, and storyteller Elaine Masters as part of the launch of our new online community, Big Blend Media House, and its Front Porch News newsletter.
A longtime Big Blend contributor and friend, Elaine is known for her thoughtful travel writing, cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and love of water adventures. Hear about her experiences diving with manta rays, exploring destinations around the world, contributing to a National Geographic travel book, and working on her upcoming spiritual travel memoir, "Where Wonder Leads." 
Along the way, Elaine discusses the importance of cultural respect, trusting your intuition, embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, sustainable living practices, the value of independent media, and how travel, nature, and storytelling can enrich our lives.
LEARN MORE:• Visit: https://www.tripwellgal.com/ • Insider Q&A: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/elaine-masters-travel-writer-success-insider  • Check Out: https://bigblendmediahouse.com 

Getting to Know Author Cheryl Leutjen: Eco-Chic Living, Community & Partying with Purpose

In this special “Getting to Know You” episode of Big Blend Radio, we chat with author, environmental attorney, geologist, and eco-conscious living expert Cheryl Leutjen about sustainability, creativity, community building, and finding joy in challenging times.
Known as “The Eco-Worrier,” Cheryl shares how humor, playfulness, and intentional gatherings can help people reconnect with nature and each other. From creating pollinator gardens and fairy gardens to hosting eco-chic parties with purpose, this inspiring conversation explores practical ways to live more consciously while still embracing fun, beauty, and celebration.
The discussion also highlights Cheryl’s upcoming book, "Party on Purpose: Your Complete Guide to Eco-Chic Entertaining," along with her passion for protecting Earth’s Life Support Systems through everyday action and meaningful community connection.
Learn more about Cheryl and subscribe to her newsletter:https://cherylleutjen.com/ https://loveearthnow.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/loveearthnow/ 
This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s new “Getting to Know You” series celebrating the new Big Blend Media House and its "Front Porch" Newsletter. Visit: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

Exploring Antarctica & South Georgia Island: Wildlife, Conservation & Expedition Cruising

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Quiltripping Travel with Rose” podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares her unforgettable expedition cruise through Antarctica and South Georgia Island, exploring not only the breathtaking glaciers and wildlife, but also the strict environmental protections and sustainable tourism practices that help preserve one of Earth’s last great wildernesses.
From towering icebergs and dramatic polar landscapes to unforgettable encounters with penguins, seals, and seabirds, Rose reflects on the awe-inspiring beauty and emotional impact of visiting the “Last Continent.” She discusses what it’s really like to travel aboard an expedition cruise through the Southern Ocean, including the logistics of Antarctic travel, onboard life, and the importance of flexibility in remote environments.
The conversation also dives into the extensive conservation efforts that protect Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem. Rose explains how carefully managed tourism, biosecurity protocols, and strict wildlife regulations help minimize environmental impact while allowing travelers to experience this extraordinary destination responsibly.
Whether you dream of expedition cruising, wildlife photography, polar exploration, or immersive nature travel, this episode offers inspiration, practical insights, and a deeper appreciation for one of the most pristine places on Earth.
📖 Read Rose’s Antarctica Articles: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/antarctica-south-georgia-rose-palmer 
🌐 Explore More from Quiltripping: https://quiltripping.com/ 
📰 Check Out the “Quiltripping Travel” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/QUILTRIPPING-TRAVEL-WITH-ROSE-MAG/#p=1 
🎧Follow the Podcast from your Favorite Listening Platform:https://quiltripping-travel.podbean.com/ 

Monarch Butterflies & Meaningful Travel in Mexico with Camiba Cultural Tours

Join travel writer Barbara Redding along with Troy Campa and Rene Ibarra of Camiba Cultural Tours as they share how responsible tourism supports ecosystems, preserves culture, and connects travelers to meaningful experiences.
Discover the incredible migration of the Monarch Butterfly to the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, and learn how local communities and conservation efforts are working together to protect this natural wonder.
🌿 In this episode:Monarch butterfly migration and conservationResponsible tourism and ecological impactCultural immersion through local experiencesSupporting communities through travel
From the colonial beauty of Morelia to immersive cultural and nature-based experiences across Mexico and Latin America, this conversation highlights how travel can be a force for good.
👉 Explore more:https://www.camibaculturaltours.com/ https://linktr.ee/camibaculturaltours https://barbararedding.com/ 
📰 Read Barbara’s articles:- https://shebuystravel.com/monarch-butterfly-biosphere-reserve/ - https://rovology.com/mexico/morelia-and-monarchs-a-journey-into-mexicos-rose-colored-colonial-heartland/ 
🎧 This Nature Connection episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel," "Vacation Station" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Author Scott Weidensaul: The Return of the Oystercatcher - Saving Birds to Save The Planet

In this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Nature Connection” Show, we’re joined by acclaimed author, ornithologist, and conservationist Scott Weidensaul to discuss his powerful new book, "The Return of the Oystercatcher: Saving Birds to Save the Planet" (W. W. Norton & Company, April 21, 2026).
Listen as Scott shares compelling stories of bird recovery, global conservation efforts, and the surprising ways birds reveal the health of our planet.
From the shores of Great Slave Lake to the forests of Kittatinny Ridge, the mountains of Southern Carpathians, and the islands of Kauaʻi, this conversation explores how science, Indigenous stewardship, and community action are driving meaningful environmental change.
While North America has lost nearly one-third of its birds since 1970, there is hope. Waterfowl populations have surged, raptors are rebounding, and conservation success stories—from the Bald Eagle to the American Oystercatcher—prove that focused efforts can make a difference.
In this episode, we discuss:Why some bird species are recovering while others declineHow conservation supports climate resilienceThe critical role of Indigenous-led land stewardshipSimple, everyday actions that help protect birds
👉 Learn more about Scott and his work: https://www.scottweidensaul.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Parks & Travel" Podcast Channel, highlighting the vital connection between nature, place, and conservation.