In observance of Hispanic Heritage Month and National Literacy Month, Big Blend Radio welcomes award-winning author Rudy Ruiz to discuss his latest novel, The Border Between Us. Longlisted for the Joyce Carol Oates Prize, this poignant coming-of-age story follows Ramón López, a young man growing up on the U.S.-Mexico border who dreams of becoming an artist in New York while navigating the weight of family expectations, cultural identity, and the sacrifices tied to the American Dream.

In this conversation, Ruiz shares insights on the immigrant experience, bilingualism, and the complexities of cultural identity. He reflects on family dynamics, the strength of women in his narrative, and the role of literacy in empowering dreams and aspirations. Ruiz also highlights how storytelling can challenge stereotypes, foster understanding, and create community across borders.

Listen as we explore themes of ambition, sacrifice, resilience, and belonging, all through the lens of one of today’s most authentic voices in borderland literature.

Learn more about Rudy Ruiz and his work at: https://rudyruiz.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio features director Christopher Leone (Parallels) and screenwriter Patrick Pianezza, creators of the new film CODE 3, starring Rainn Wilson (The Office), Lil Rel Howery (Get Out), and Aimee Carrero (Your Friends and Neighbors).

Opening in theaters nationwide on September 12, 2025 via AURA Entertainment, CODE 3 follows one intense, unpredictable, and hilariously real day in the life of two burnt-out paramedics. Inspired by actual paramedic stories, the film balances comedy and truth to highlight the financial struggles, emotional toll, teamwork, and underappreciation of EMS workers. More: https://www.instagram.com/code3movie/

In celebration of National Literacy Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Books & Authors" show with Books Forward features author Liz Parker, who discusses her upcoming novel, "Witches of Honeysuckle House" (October 21, 2025, Alcove Press). A must-read for "practical Magic" fans, this enchanting story blends curses, sisterhood, and the power of plants with themes of generational trauma, family, and community.

Liz shares insights into the 13-year curse central to the story, the sentient house that shapes the narrative, and how her background in herbalism informs the magic woven throughout the book. She also talks about intention in witchcraft, the significance of plants, and her goal of helping readers reconnect with the natural world.

📘 More about Liz and her books: https://www.lizparkerwrites.com/

⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Witches of Honeysuckle House 02:07 – The Curse and Its Significance 04:29 – Sisterhood and Generational Trauma 06:28 – Exploring Spells vs. Curses 07:59 – Themes of Family and Community 09:51 – The Impact of Generational Trauma 11:22 – The Role of Plants and Nature 13:35 – The Author's Journey to Writing 17:17 – The Magic of Belief and Imagination 18:53 – The Sentient House and Its Personality 20:50 – Witchcraft and Family Legacy 22:20 – Herbalism and the Power of Plants 29:52 – The Connection Between Plants and Humanity 32:11 – Conclusion and Future Works

🔔 Learn more about Books Forward: https://booksforward.com/