Rants, Raves & Rock ’n Roll

In celebration of National Arts & Humanities Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features Corey Schenck, co-founder of the progressive rock band PANGAEA. Corey talks about the band’s rich history, their creative evolution, and their long-awaited fourth album, “The Reckoning.”    Recorded over several years, The Reckoning captures the authenticity and collaborative spirit that define PANGAEA’s sound. Corey reflects on the group’s decades-long friendships, musical influences, and the revival of their shelved album after twenty years. The conversation also dives into how digital distribution and AI are reshaping the music landscape, the resurgence of vinyl culture, and the lasting impact of album art and live, acoustic performances. 📀 More About PANGAEA Formed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, PANGAEA’s story began like many bands — a group of friends with a shared dream. After three internationally recognized albums and a long hiatus, the band reunited two decades later to release Beowulf (2023) and now, finally, The Reckoning. Their music continues to resonate across generations of rock and prog fans worldwide. 🔗 Links & Resources: - PANGAEA Band: https://pangaea.band/  - Big Blend Radio Interview with Ron Poulson about Beowulf: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/pangaea-beowulf-album/  - Listen to more episodes on Toast The Arts: https://toast-the-arts.podbean.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts & Parks” podcast celebrates National Arts & Humanities Month with Queen Esther, who completed a National Parks Arts Foundation (NPAF) artist residency at Gettysburg National Military Park in 2020. Queen Esther reflects on her artistic journey, the emotional impact of her Gettysburg residency, and the themes of her upcoming album Blackbirding. The conversation delves into the historical significance of Gettysburg, the concept of blackbirding, and the power of art in preserving and conveying history. She emphasizes the resilience of the Black community and the importance of understanding the past to navigate the present and future. The discussion also touches on the role of women in history and politics, spirituality in music, and the significance of artistic expression during challenging times. 🎵 The first single Hold Steady is available here: https://ffm.to/holdsteady  🎵 Pre-save or order the full album Blackbirding here: https://ffm.to/qeblackbirding  🌐 Learn more about Queen Esther: https://www.queen-esther.com  🌐 Learn more about the National Parks Arts Foundation’s artist residencies: https://www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, longtime fair lending and CRA expert Josh Silver discusses his new book, Ending Redlining: Through a Community-Centered Reform of the Community Reinvestment Act (Armin Lear Press, March 25, 2025). With the first major overhaul of CRA rules in nearly three decades set to take effect in January 2026, Silver explains what these changes mean for banks, communities, and the future of economic justice. From the rise of online banking and cryptocurrency to the challenges of gentrification and housing affordability, Silver shares why a community-centered approach to banking reform is essential to ensuring fair lending and reinvestment in historically underserved neighborhoods. He also highlights the role of community banks, the power of documenting success stories, and how everyday citizens can take action to foster lasting change. Learn more about Josh Silver and his work: Website: https://www.endredline.com/  Substack: https://joshsilver.substack.com/ 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks" show with Joey Stuckey, the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia, Joey draws on his extensive experience as a blind award-winning guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, and sound engineer to share insights into the art and process of music production.  From preparing for that first recording session and managing nerves, to budgeting, collaboration, and finding balance between creativity and perfectionism, Joey offers invaluable advice for both emerging and seasoned musicians. The conversation also reflects on the growth that comes from mistakes, the evolving role of home versus professional studios, and the importance of celebrating milestones like Joey’s inspiring Alive Day. Learn more about Joey and his inspiring musical journey at https://www.joeystuckey.com/  What You’ll Learn in this Episode - How to prepare for the recording studio and set realistic expectations - Why budgeting and collaboration matter in music production - The value of mistakes and celebrating creative milestones Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joey Stuckey and His Journey 02:27 Preparing for the Recording Studio 09:32 Realistic Expectations in Music Production 16:09 The Role of Home Studios and Remote Collaboration 25:32 The Art of Communication in Music Production 36:35 The Role of a Producer vs. Engineer 38:22 Artistic Intent and the Creative Process 39:57 Understanding the Unconventional 41:30 Nerves and Performance Anxiety in Music 43:01 Creating a Comfortable Studio Environment 45:02 The Importance of Honest Feedback 46:32 The Growth Process in Music Production 47:24 Recognizing Diminishing Returns in Recording 49:20 The Balance of Creativity and Perfectionism 51:34 Embracing Mistakes and Learning from Detours 54:04 Celebrating Triumphs: Joey Stuckey's Alive Day This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Toast to The Arts," "Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll," and "Success Express" podcast channels. Explore and follow the Big Blend Radio Network of shows here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

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 

This episode of Big Blend Radio celebrates American Artists Appreciation Month with acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician John McAndrew, who talks about his brand-new solo album, Better Side of Me (Quarto Valley Records). A seamless blend of blues, Americana, roots music, and pop sensibilities, Better Side of Me showcases McAndrew’s soulful and jagged vocal style—at once bluesy, plaintive, moving, and deeply inspiring. The album is a collaboration with producer Denny Seiwell (co-founder and drummer of Wings) and musician/producer Fernando Perdomo, whose combined expertise elevates McAndrew’s heartfelt storytelling into an unforgettable listening experience. In this conversation, John reflects on: - The storytelling power of songwriting. - The influence of the Midwest on his music. - The importance of intimate venues for live performances. - Collaborating with producers who understand and honor the artist’s vision. - The role of music in healing, reflection, and civil rights. With his ability to inspire and uplift through music, John McAndrew continues to captivate audiences across the country while shining a light on the profound connection between art, humanity, and social healing. 🎶 Learn more about John at: https://johnmcandrew.com/  🎶 Watch John’s Better Side of Me live concert at Kulak’s Woodshed in North Hollywood, CA: https://johnmcandrew.com/Concert-01.htm  🎶 Explore more episodes on the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes us on an adventure through Nashville, Tennessee, the “Music City” that blends legendary stages, cultural landmarks, and artistic spirit. From the Ryman Auditorium and the world-famous Grand Ole Opry, to the lasting legacy of Johnny Cash and the interactive experiences at the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville continues to be a place where music shapes the community and connects people. The journey also highlights unexpected and fascinating stops like the full-scale Parthenon, the historic elegance of the Union Station Hotel, and family-friendly attractions like Madame Tussauds Nashville. Lisa also spotlights the National Museum of African American Music, an essential stop for understanding the deeper roots of the city’s sound. This episode is part of our celebration of American Adventures Month and American Artist Appreciation Month, honoring the destinations, stories, and creativity that make the U.S. such a vibrant place to explore. 🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by Nashville: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648  🗺️ Lisa’s Nashville Travel Articles & Resources: - National Museum of African American Music: https://writerlisa.com/2024/01/16/the-national-museum-of-african-american-music/  - The Parthenon: https://writerlisa.com/2023/11/14/parthenon-in-nashville-tennessee/  - Union Station Hotel: https://writerlisa.com/2023/12/08/union-station-hotel-nashville/  - Madame Tussauds Nashville: https://www.madametussauds.com/nashville  - Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp: https://www.visitmusiccity.com/  📚 Lisa Evans is the author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die 🌐 https://writerlisa.com/  🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans  📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/  🎧 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Toast to The Arts, Way Back When, Big Daily Blend, and Rants, Raves & Rock Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

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/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Music Talks with Joey Stuckey” features a lively and insightful conversation with The Cravens Band, diving into theiR new album “Strangers to the Truth." Formed in 2014 by brothers Bill and John Storch, The Cravens are a West Palm Beach-based band known for their genre-blending sound that fuses classic rock, melodic hard rock, glam pop, and Americana. With three studio albums, a live album, an EP, and several standout singles, their music continues to resonate across streaming platforms and radio stations. Featured on this episode are clips from two new tracks from Strangers to the Truth: “Big Ole Sky” and “Around the Bend.” The band shares insight into their writing and recording process, their evolving lineup, and the importance of staying authentic to their musical voice. The Cravens are: - Bill Storch – Vocals, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Keyboards - John Storch – Vocals, Acoustic & Electric Guitars - Dennis Ambrose – Bass, Guitars - Bill Meredith – Drums, Percussion - David Simone – Guitars Joey Stuckey, an award-winning blind guitarist, producer, educator, and the official Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia, also discusses his creative workflow, the assistive technology he uses in the studio and on stage, and the enduring importance of musical dynamics and collaboration. 🎧 Episode Highlights: - The Cravens’ evolution and continued success in the South Florida music scene - Insights into the making of Strangers to the Truth - How live performances bring new energy to their music - Joey’s experiences with new adaptive tech for the visually impaired - Music festival culture and creative collaboration 🎶 Learn more: The Cravens – https://cravenmusic.net  Joey Stuckey – https://www.joeystuckey.com  This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll” and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans shares her recent adventure through Memphis, Tennessee, a city where music, history, and food come together in unforgettable ways. From the bluesy beats of Beale Street and the legacy of Elvis Presley at Graceland, to the comfort food of Rendezvous and Arcade Restaurant, Memphis comes alive with character and charm. Lisa talks about the city’s colorful street art, the timeless elegance of the Peabody Hotel, and her side trip to Tupelo, Elvis's humble birthplace. She also reflects on what makes Memphis so distinct, and why this soulful city continues to inspire travelers from all walks of life. 🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by Memphis: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648  🗺️ Read Lisa’s article on Memphis restaurants: https://www.foodieflashpacker.com/memphis-restaurants/  📚 Lisa Evans is the author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die 🌐 https://writerlisa.com/  🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans  📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 

This episode of Big Blend Radio features an inspiring conversation with Milwaukee-based singer-songwriter Peggy James, who shares the creative journey behind her soulful new album 'Til I Turn Blue. Blending Americana, country, jazz, and folk-rock, Peggy reflects on the personal stories, life experiences, and emotional depth that shape her songwriting. Hear about how her travels and time spent in America’s heartland have influenced her music, the power of storytelling through song, and her longtime collaboration with producer and multi-instrumentalist Jim Eannelli. From themes of love and heartbreak to overcoming difficult life experiences, Peggy’s music paints a vivid soundscape of the American experience—introspective, honest, and deeply human. 'Til I Turn Blue is now available via Happy Growl Records on all major streaming platforms, with CDs available through local record stores and eBay. More at: https://www.facebook.com/PeggyJamesMusician 

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Books & Authors” Show with Books Forward features Rob Tonkin, author of the powerful memoir A**hole: Wild Stories of Trauma, Truths & Transformation (releasing July 21, 2025).   Known in the industry as “Rockin’ Rob,” Tonkin began his radio career at 14 and later produced the two-decade-long Honda Civic Tour, working with top artists like blink-182, The Black Eyed Peas, and One Direction. But behind the glitz of the music world lay a personal story of pain, survival, and transformation. In this candid conversation, Tonkin shares what it took to face his childhood trauma—including sexual assault and the impact of a broken home—and how he found healing through self-reflection, therapy, and writing. He discusses the pressure on men to mask vulnerability, the effects of generational trauma, and the importance of emotional health, support groups like ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics), and self-care. 🔗 Pre-order the book and learn more: https://www.robtonkin.com/  📚 Learn more about Books Forward: https://www.booksforward.com/ 

Join us on The Big Daily Blend show for an immersive exploration of American music! This episode celebrates the vibrant tapestry of sounds that tell America's story, diving deep into its profound connections to culture, history, and identity. We'll navigate the diverse landscape of musical genres, uncover how travel shapes our sonic experiences, and examine the powerful legacy of protest songs throughout history. Hear about iconic artists who shaped the American musical landscape and discover how music unites communities and inspires change. Featuring personal stories and reflections on music's ever-evolving nature, this discussion culminates in a celebration of American music's enduring journey. FEATURED GUESTS: - Johnny Schaefer – Cohost and award-winning singer/songwriter: https://hearjohnny.com/  - Kathleen Walls – Travel writer and author: https://americanroads.net/ and https://katywalls.com/  LISTEN TO OUR "AMERICAN MOSAIC" MUSIC PLAYLIST ON SPOTIFY: https://tinyurl.com/ycck3eyn  This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's TOAST TO THE ARTS and RANTS, RAVES & ROCK Podcasts. Explore Big Blend Radio's Network of Shows, here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Celebrate National Kissing Day with this fun and heartfelt episode of MUSIC TALKS on Big Blend Radio, featuring award-winning musician, producer, and cohost Joey Stuckey. From the spark of a first kiss to the songs that soundtrack our most romantic moments, this lively conversation dives into the powerful connection between music and intimacy. Joey shares personal stories, reflects on how music shapes relationships, and chats about the evolving nature of romance and the importance of keeping music real. With heart, humor, and some deep thoughts on everything from house concerts to kissing songs, it's a show that hits all the right notes. 🎶 Don’t miss our curated Kissing Songs Spotify Playlist: https://tinyurl.com/yc4dnsxc  Learn more about Joey Stuckey, the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia – the “Southern Rock Capital of the World” – at https://www.joeystuckey.com.  This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s popular shows Big Daily Blend, Toast to The Arts, and Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll. Follow the Big Blend Radio Network here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork. 

🎙️In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox with Lisa, we’re diving into the soul of the South with an unforgettable journey along the Mississippi Blues Trail! 🎸🎤 Join travel writer Lisa Evans as she explores legendary landmarks like Robert Johnson’s Crossroads, 100 Men Hall in Bay St. Louis, and Ground Zero Blues Club in Biloxi—where she caught a powerful performance by Shemekia Copeland. Discover the stories behind the trail’s historic markers and the influential musicians who made the Blues a global phenomenon. 🗺️ Read Lisa’s Full Article: 👉 https://rovology.com/united-states/mississippi/my-journey-of-discovery-along-the-mississippi-blues-trail/  🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Playlist on Spotify: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648  📚 About Lisa Evans: Author of "100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die" 🌐 https://writerlisa.com/  🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans  📅 New Episodes Air Every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST! 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 

Join us for a special National Tell a Story Day episode of Big Blend Radio’s BIG DAILY BLEND Show, featuring musician, producer, and cohost Joey Stuckey! From emotional instrumentals and heartfelt folk to energetic classic rock and storytelling country tunes, we dive into the world of music that tells stories. Don’t miss our curated Songs That Tell Stories Spotify playlist here: https://tinyurl.com/yymew7md.  Joey Stuckey, known as the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia, the “Southern Rock Capital of the World,” is an award-winning blind guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, and sound engineer. Learn more about Joey and his inspiring musical journey at https://www.joeystuckey.com/.  This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s popular channels: "Toast to The Arts" and "Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll." Explore and follow the Big Blend Radio Network of shows here: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork. 

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, directors Zach Ingrasci and Chris Temple discuss their film VITALIK: AN ETHEREUM STORY that provides an intimate look at the humanity and vision behind a technological revolution.  Through exclusive interviews with Vitalik Buterin, his parents, and leading tech figures—including Dmitry Buterin, Danny Ryan, Itzel Yard, and Tim O’Reilly—the film traces Buterin’s journey from childhood to the creation of Ethereum. Blending archival footage with firsthand insights, directors Zach Ingrasci and Chris Temple explore the motivations and challenges that shaped Ethereum’s groundbreaking launch.  VITALIK is out on VOD via Gravtias Ventures. Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqbOMrgYav0 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's BIG DAILY BLEND Show with cohost musician Joey Stuckey celebrates Weather Music in honor of today (March 23) being World Meteorological Day. This show is dedicated to our friend in music, Billy James of Glass Onyon PR. CHECK OUT OUR WEATHER MUSIC PLAYLIST on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/5c7hva5j  Here's the link for the interview we discussed on the show with seismologist Barry Hirshorn, who talks about his experiences in the 2004 Tsunami: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/tsunami-race-against-time/  JOEY STUCKEY ‪is known as the Music Ambassador of Macon, Georgia "The Southern Rock Capital of the World." He's an award-winning blind guitarist, songwriter, singer, composer, producer, and sound engineer. Visit: https://www.joeystuckey.com/  This show is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" and "Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll" Podcast Channel. Follow the BIG DAILY BLEND Show, here: https://big-daily-blend.podbean.com/ 

In observance of World Social Justice Day, this episode of Big Blend Radio features Leah Rothstein, a veteran community organizer, local housing program expert, and co-author of "Just Action: How to Challenge Segregation Enacted Under the Color of Law" (Liveright: June 2023), which will be released in paperback on March 4, 2025. In 2017 Richard Rothstein wrote "The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America." The book has sold more than 1 million copies and started a revolution in the housing industry by explaining America’s troubled housing situation.   Newly educated and informed communities across the nation began to take action.  As Richard toured the country educating local communities, the communities began reviewing their housing policies and initiating changes. Realizing direction was needed to help communities get started and move the process forward, Richard enlisted his daughter, Leah Rothstein, to co-author "Just Action."  "Just Action" provides concrete examples of what communities can do to improve local housing policies. Paired with an active "Just Action Substack" column, challenging segregated housing is happening across the nation. Visit: https://www.justactionbook.org/ 

After the Canadian Screen Awards qualification theatrical run in Toronto last October, "Rez Comedy," the first all Indigenous stand-up comedy feature documentary world premieres on SVOD on AAM.tv and TVOD on Amazon Prime on Friday February 14, 2025.  Hear all about REZ COMEDY on this episode of Big Blend Radio with Keith Nahanee, rising Squamish nation comic and filmmaker, and Comedy Invasion creator Quentin Lee, a 2024 Canadian Screen Award winner. Visit https://rezcomedy.com/