PODCAST · science
Nature Connection Radio
by Big Blend Radio Network
It’s all about Nature, Wildlife, Science, and the Environment on Big Blend Radio’s NATURE CONNECTION Podcast. Hosts are Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, mother-daughter travel team on the Love Your Parks Tour and publishers of Big Blend Magazines, along with frequent guest co-host nature photographer Margot Carrera.
Episodes
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Ambassador Dr. Nabhit Kapur: Water Is Life, Life Is Dignity
Clean water and sanitation touch nearly every part of life: health, education, safety, economic opportunity and human dignity. On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Table & Compass" Podcast, Lisa D. Smith is joined by co-hosts Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough of Wanderers Compass for a...
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Comedian Ben Miller – Volcano: A Science Comedy Special
What happens when a comedian walks into a volcano? In this return visit on this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Toast to the Arts & Parks" Show with the National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF), Lisa D. Smith catches up with stand-up comedian Ben Miller, the scientist-turned-comedian who became...
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Author Jared Schoch – Riding the Solar Coaster
On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Podcast, host/producer Lisa D. Smith talks with clean energy executive Jared Schoch, founder and chairman of TurningPoint Energy and author of "Solar Coaster: The Untold Story of the Solar Industry, One Man's Journey Leading with Soul"...
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Author James Michael Dorsey – The Friendly Whales of San Ignacio Lagoon
On this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Before They Vanish" Podcast, explorer and author James Michael Dorsey returns to talk about the gray whales he has spent decades getting to know in Baja's San Ignacio Lagoon, and about his book, "The Lagoon: Encounters with the Whales of San Ignacio." Once...
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The Life of a Tree: England's Forests, Folklore, and Fall Colors
On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "English Connection" Podcast, Glynn Burrows takes us for a wander through England's forests — ancient and modern, native and man-made — and what a single tree can teach us about history, health, and home. From Sherwood's legendary (and ailing) Major Oak...
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Yellowstone: America's First National Park, Still Wild After 110 Years
Travel writer and advisor Lisa Evans, host of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" Podcast takes us to Yellowstone National Park — America's very first national park, marking 110 years of the National Park Service this year. This episode picks up right where her Cody, Wyoming visit left off: after...
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Snorkeling the Solomon Islands: Two Weeks Aboard the MV Bilikiki
Author and adventurer Inga Aksamit returns to this shared Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" show with the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) — to take us snorkeling for two weeks aboard the MV Bilikiki in the Solomon Islands. From a camouflaged crocodile fish and...
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Epic Southern Africa: Wildlife, Wine, Waterfalls, River & Rail Adventures
On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Quiltripping Travel" Podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares her epic month-long journey across Southern Africa with her husband — starting with wine tasting in Cape Town, riding the historic Rovos Rail into Zimbabwe, chasing…
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Explore Tualatin Valley, Oregon
Just 30 minutes from Portland, Tualatin Valley is Oregon's underrated wine country — home to 40+ wineries, one of the state's most ethnically diverse food scenes, tax-free shopping, and a 21-mile paved trail past a giant wooden troll. On this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine &…
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Vernonia, Oregon: How a Community Turned an Old Railroad into a National Recreation Trail
Michael Calhoun, a lifelong resident of Vernonia, Oregon and Board Chair of the Columbia Soil & Water Conservation District, joins this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Parks & Travel" Podcast — timed to National Park Week 2026 — to share the story of the Banks-Vernonia Trail, a 20-mile…
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Film Director Sasha Waters: Mary Oliver - Saved by the Beauty of the World
Sasha Waters, director and producer of the new American Masters documentary "Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World," joins Big Blend Radio to talk about bringing the life of one of America's most beloved and most private poets to the screen. Mary Oliver was a bestselling poet and Pulitzer...
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To Use a Mountain: Filmmaker Casey Carter on America's Nuclear Waste Crisis
Filmmaker Casey Carter joins Big Blend Radio to talk about his feature documentary debut, "To Use a Mountain," which traces the search for a permanent U.S. nuclear waste repository back to the 1982 Nuclear Waste Policy Act. Casey and Lisa dig into the six candidate communities featured in the…
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Lessons Learned from Travel: From Adventure to Environmental Stewardship
In Part Three of her “Lessons Learned from Travel” series, travel writr Linda Ballou takes us into the wilds of Alaska and Canada for a powerful story about adventure, wilderness, and environmental stewardship. In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Show, Linda...
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Exploring Audubon’s Francis Beidler Forest & Sanctuary: A South Carolina Swamp Adventure
Celebrate American Adventures Month with this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast featuring writer Jo Clark who takes us into the wild and wonderful world of Audubon’s Francis Beidler Forest Center and Sanctuary in Harleyville, South Carolina—an extraordinary...
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Building a Better World Through Community, Travel & the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Welcome to this shared inaugural episode of Big Blend Radio's "Table & Compass" Podcast with hosts Lisa D. Smith, Joelle Machia, and Ryan Slough. Pull up a chair for global conversations that shape a better world as we explore how travel, community, culture, and collaboration connect to the…
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We Are Guardians Film: Rob Grobman & Chelsea Greene on the Fight to Save the Amazon Rainforest
In recognition of World Rainforest Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Nature Connection" Podcast features co-directors Rob Grobman and Chelsea Greene who discuss their acclaimed documentary film, "We Are Guardians," produced by Oscar-winning filmmaker, actor, and environmental activist…
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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...
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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…
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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…
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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,...
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Exploring Patagonia: Glaciers, Wildlife & Epic Landscapes
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Quiltripping Travel with Rose” podcast, travel writer and photographer Rose Palmer shares highlights from her unforgettable journey through Patagonia, one of the most breathtaking and remote regions in South America. From the awe-inspiring glaciers of Los...
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Rejuvenate in Sedona: Trails, Vortexes & Desert Wonders
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Show, travel writer Linda Ballou explores the breathtaking beauty, rejuvenating energy, and outdoor adventures of Sedona, Arizona. Known for its striking red rock landscapes and powerful vortex sites, Sedona offers a unique blend...
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Into the Atacama Desert: Exploring Chile’s High Altitude Wonders
Journey to the driest place on Earth as travel writer Debbie Stone takes us to the Atacama Desert in Chile. From the hissing Tatio Geysers at 14,000 feet to the surreal "white gold" salt flats and the ancient paths of the Inca Trail, discover why this destination is a must for any "bucket list"...
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Pet Poison Prevention: Common Household Hazards & Life Saving Tips
In this shared Big Blend Radio "Pet Connection" episode for Pet Poison Prevention Month, we sit down with co-host Angela Laws from TrustedHouseSitters.com, to uncover the hidden hazards lurking in our homes and gardens. From common kitchen staples like chocolate to beautiful but deadly lilies,...
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The Dawes Arboretum: How Beman and Bertie Dawes Created a Living Museum of Trees
Explore the inspiring history of The Dawes Arboretum, a remarkable living museum of trees founded in 1929 by husband-and-wife conservationists Beman Dawes and Bertie Dawes. In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection Podcast, historian Leslie Wagner shares how the Dawes family...
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Spring Flower-Powered Adventures in California’s Sequoia Country
Spring brings vibrant color and fresh adventures to California’s Sequoia Country in Tulare County. In this episode, we explore wildflower viewing, native plant gardens, spring festivals, and scenic outdoor destinations that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Learn about wildflower hotspots,...
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Breathing In the Awe: Music Inspired by America's National Parks
Discover how music and nature beautifully intersect in this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio featuring composer and conductor Luke Diamond and conservation advocate and author Elaine A. Powers. Based in Tucson, Luke is developing "Breathing in the Awe," an ambitious collection of ten original...
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Backyarding in 2026: Landscapes for People, Pets & the Planet
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Garden Gossip" Podcast, we chat with Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, about 2026 Backyarding Trends and how outdoor spaces are evolving into purpose-driven, high-performance landscapes. The TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the...
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James Michael Dorsey: Award-winning Author & Explorer
As part of our Book Blitz Month programming, award-winning author, explorer, photographer, and cetacean specialist James Michael Dorsey joins Big Blend Radio to share stories from a lifetime of global exploration. Having traveled through 60 countries, Dorsey discusses his work documenting remote...
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Ecological Gardening: Working with Nature for a Healthier Garden
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Garden Gossip" Podcast, we welcome Matt Mattus, Senior Director of Horticulture for the American Horticultural Society, to discuss their new book, “Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening: Techniques and Know-How for Gardening with Nature.” Released January…
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Outdoors in California's Sequoia Country: National Parks, Forests, Monuments & Refuges
This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California’s Sequoia Country” podcast explores the incredible federal parks and public lands of Tulare County, California—home to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Sequoia National Forest, the Giant Sequoia National Monument, and Pixley National Wildlife...
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Birds of the Great Lakes with Dexter Patterson
In this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection Podcast, we explore the joy of birding in the Great Lakes region with expert birder, educator, and author Dexter Patterson, host of the Bird Joy podcast and co-founder of Wisconsin’s BIPOC Birding Club. Dexter shares insights from…
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When Martians Were Real: Science, History & America’s Alien Craze
In this thought-provoking episode of Big Blend Radio, acclaimed author David Baron discusses his award-winning book, "The Martians: The True Story of an Alien Craze that Captured Turn-of-the-Century America." Long before Martians became the stuff of science fiction, many Americans believed they...
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Chasing the Northern Lights: An Adventure Awaits
The conversation also highlights the importance of planning additional activities, managing expectations, and embracing the unpredictability that comes with chasing natural wonders. Whether you're a photographer, a dreamer, or an adventurer, this episode offers both awe and actionable advice. 📖...
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Author Alex Woodard - Ordinary Soil Novel
This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward features Alex Woodard—singer-songwriter, author, and storyteller—who discusses his powerful new novel, "Ordinary Soil" (Greenleaf, Aug. 12, 2025). According to the National Rural Health Association, farmers are 3.5 times...
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Author Michael Engelhard - No Place Like Nome
Award-winning author and anthropologist Michael Engelhard joins Big Blend Radio’s "Way Back When" History Show to discuss his new book, “No Place Like Nome: The Bering Strait Seen Through Its Most Storied City.” Blending anthropology, history, personal reflection, and vivid storytelling…
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The Rougarou Fest: Celebrating Louisiana’s Culture, Cuisine & Coastal Conservation
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), Merle Rosenstein shares her experiences at the Rougarou Fest in Houma, Louisiana, part of the Annual IFWTWA Conference in Lafayette (October 2025). Merle...
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Author TJ Derry: Carried Away – From Film to Fiction
In this engaging Big Blend Radio conversation, filmmaker and debut novelist TJ Derry talks about his powerful new novel "Carried Away: Surviving the Unimaginable" — a story that begins as a laid-back surf trip and spirals into a gripping fight for survival. When burned-out New Yorker Cole joins...
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Exploring Sustainable Tourism: A Global Perspective
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wanderers Compass" Travel Podcast, Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass Travel Blog, explore the global importance of sustainable tourism and the growing call for responsible travel. They discuss their recent experiences at the…
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rk - A Magical Loveliness of Ladybugs
On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Nature Connection" podcast, Dr. Amy L. Stark talks about her new illustrated children’s book, "A Magical Loveliness of Ladybugs," which encourages kids and families to reconnect with nature. Based on a true story, the book follows young Jan as she discovers…
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Author Claudia Daher - Revolutionary Army of Teens: We Are One
This Big Blend Radio conversation with debut author Claudia Daher dives into her powerful new science fiction novel, “R.A.T.S: Revolutionary Army of Teens – We Are One” (Pegasus Publishing, September 28, 2025). The story follows a diverse group of teens secretly training in an alternate reality...
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Exploring Grand County, Colorado: Nature, Wildlife and Mountain Charm
In this on-location episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, travel writer Terri Guthrie talks with Gaylene Ore, Executive Director of the Grand County Tourism Board, about the breathtaking beauty, outdoor adventures, and welcoming hospitality that make Grand County, Colorado such a...
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Here Comes the Sun - Bill McKibben on Solar Power, Climate Action and the Economy
This episode of Big Blend Radio features renowned author, climate activist, and clean energy expert Bill McKibben, who talks about the transformative power of solar energy and his new book HERE COMES THE SUN: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization (W.W. Norton &…
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Family Nature Adventures in San Antonio Hill Country
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, travel writer Terri Guthrie shares her family’s multi-generational adventures in the San Antonio Hill Country. From exploring the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge Caverns and experiencing the breathtaking bat emergence at Bracken Bat…
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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...
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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...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
It’s all about Nature, Wildlife, Science, and the Environment on Big Blend Radio’s NATURE CONNECTION Podcast. Hosts are Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, mother-daughter travel team on the Love Your Parks Tour and publishers of Big Blend Magazines, along with frequent guest co-host nature photographer Margot Carrera.
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Big Blend Radio Network
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Nature Connection Radio have?
Nature Connection Radio currently has 100 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Nature Connection Radio about?
It’s all about Nature, Wildlife, Science, and the Environment on Big Blend Radio’s NATURE CONNECTION Podcast. Hosts are Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, mother-daughter travel team on the Love Your Parks Tour and publishers of Big Blend Magazines, along with frequent guest co-host nature...
How often does Nature Connection Radio release new episodes?
Nature Connection Radio has 100 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Nature Connection Radio?
You can listen to Nature Connection Radio on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Nature Connection Radio?
Nature Connection Radio is created and hosted by Big Blend Radio Network.
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