Celebrate the holiday season with this delicious and insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with host Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” She’s joined by Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce to discuss the top holiday produce trends for 2025 — from quince and chestnuts to pickling, luxury fruits, and festive gift basket ideas.

In this engaging conversation, Linda and Robert explore unique holiday ingredients and how to prepare them, the rise of home pickling and fermentation, and creative ways to use seasonal fruits and vegetables in both dishes and décor. They also share insights into trending gift ideas, like Royal Vine Grapes and gourmet produce baskets that make the holidays extra special.

🔗 Read Linda’s article: “Top Trends for Holiday Produce 2025” https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/top-trends-for-holiday-produce-2025/

🔗 Shop Melissa's Produce & See Recipes: https://www.melissas.com/

🔗 Listen to more of Linda Kissam’s travel and food podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj

🔗 Follow Diva Linda’s blog and adventures: https://allingoodtaste.info/

🔗 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel” Show travel writer Linda Kissam, the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” shares her final boating adventure of the 2025 season, exploring the South Sound region of Washington State.

This engaging conversation dives into the vibrant boating culture of the Pacific Northwest, from the benefits of yacht club membership—like social connections and reciprocal mooring—to the fun of flotillas and the unique character of different marinas, ranging from well-appointed to rustic.

Linda also highlights memorable wildlife encounters with seals, sea lions, and birds, as well as the influence of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly in the area. The episode celebrates the natural and cultural treasures of the region, from the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge to the joy of harvesting local produce that defines the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.

🔗 Read the article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/south-sound-washington-by-boat-explore-relax-enjoy-the-view

🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/

🌐 Linda’s travel blog: https://allingoodtaste.info/

🎙️ Also hear this episode on Big Blend’s “Parks & Travel” and “Vacation Station” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Diva Saturday,” travel writer Linda Kissam, the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” shares her recent adventures in Sidney, British Columbia—a lovely seaside town on Vancouver Island that’s rich with culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.

This lively conversation highlights the charm of Sidney, from strolling the waterfront walkway and exploring local bookstores to savoring delicious pastries from the town’s famed bakery. Linda also spotlights the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, multicultural dining experiences, and the area’s vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

Linda also shares insights on the local transit system that connects Sidney to nearby attractions like Victoria and Butchart Gardens—where high tea, boutique shopping, and beautiful gardens await. Whether by land or sea, Sidney offers a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation that makes it a must-visit destination.

🔗 Read the article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/nautical-adventures-exploring-the-beauty-of-sidney-british-columbia/

🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj

🌐 Linda’s travel blog: https://allingoodtaste.info/

🎙️ Also hear this episode on Big Blend’s “Parks & Travel” and “Vacation Station” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Celebrate American Adventures Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Diva Saturday” with travel writer Linda Kissam, the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” Linda joins us to share her recent private boating experience in Washington’s Roche Harbor, one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic marine destinations.

This fun and insightful conversation highlights Roche Harbor’s unique local culture, from famous donuts and fresh fish dishes to scenic sculpture parks, historic gardens and trails, boutique shopping, and relaxing spa experiences. Linda also describes traditions like the nightly cannon ceremony that fosters a strong sense of community on the island.

We also explore the realities of boating life—navigating marina costs, docking reservations, waste and water management, and the growing role of technology like Starlink and electric carts. For anyone dreaming of coastal cruising or planning a water-based getaway, this episode is packed with practical tips and delightful travel insights.

🔗 Read Diva Linda’s article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/visiting-roche-harbor-washington-by-private-boat/ 🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/ 🌐 Linda’s travel blog: https://allingoodtaste.info/ 🎙️ Also hear this episode on Big Blend’s “Parks & Travel,” "Big Daily Blend," and “Vacation Station” podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writer Linda Kissam, “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva,” who shares her recent visit to the stunning Point Defiance Rose Garden in Tacoma, Washington. From the garden’s rich history and environmental significance to its natural beauty and community value, this conversation is a tribute to the Pacific Northwest’s floral charm. Discover how the region’s climate helps roses thrive, how nature and public spaces foster well-being, and why the garden is a perfect place for everything from peaceful picnics to family outings.

📖 Read Linda’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/point-defiance-rose-garden-in-tacoma/

🎧 Follow Linda’s podcast: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/

🌐 Follow Diva Linda’s adventures: https://allingoodtaste.info/

🎙️ Also listen on Big Blend’s Garden Gossip podcast channel: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Celebrate Great Outdoors Month with this fun and flavorful episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Show" with host Linda Kissam, aka “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva.” Special guest Robert Schueller of Melissa’s World Variety Produce joins the show to talk about seasonal produce, healthy snacks, and gourmet goodies perfect for a memorable summer picnic.

In this lively conversation, Linda and Robert share their dream picnic companions and destinations, essential food ideas, and healthy snack options. They explore creative recipes, dessert ideas to sweeten your spread, and fun picnic themes to take your gathering to the next level. Plus, hear about the latest trends in summer produce and the importance of clean picnicking practices.

🔗 Read Linda’s article: “The Ultimate Summer Picnic” https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-ultimate-summer-picnic/

🔗 Listen to Linda Kissam’s travel and food adventures on Big Blend Radio: https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/

🔗 Follow Diva Linda’s blog and adventures: https://allingoodtaste.info/

🔗 This episode is also featured on Big Blend’s "Eat, Drink & Be Merry," "Parks & Travel," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels.Explore more shows on Big Blend Radio’s Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

On this tasty episode of Big Blend Radio, travel and food writer Linda Kissam—aka the “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva”—shares her review of Coco Polo Bliss sugarless chocolate. She describes it as “a hidden gem in the candy aisle,” and dives into the brand’s rich, creamy texture and deliciously bold flavors.

Crafted for chocolate lovers who want to avoid added sugars without giving up indulgence, Coco Polo Bliss is GMO-free, sustainably made, and perfect for anyone living a low-sugar or low-carb lifestyle. With its beautiful packaging and clean ingredients, it also makes a thoughtful gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, or any occasion worth celebrating with a healthier sweet treat.

👉 Read Linda’s full review: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-foodies-guide-to-sugarless-chocolates/ 🎧 Listen to Diva Linda on Big Blend Radio (first Saturdays): https://lindakissam-foodwinetravel.podbean.com/

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, Linda Kissam "Food, Wine & Shopping Diva," talks about Agritopia, a culinary haven in Gilbert, Arizona, that invites food lovers to experience farm-to-table dining like never before.

With its community gardens, artisanal eateries, and vibrant farmer’s market, this unique planned urban farming development blends agriculture with gastronomy, creating a feast for the senses. Read Linda's article about the unique housing, attractions, and amenities in Agritopia: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/a-foodies-guide-to-agritopia-in-gilbert-arizona/

Travel writer Linda Kissam appears on Big Blend Radio every first Saturday. Follow her podcasts here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj

Follow Diva Linda's adventures here: https://allingoodtaste.info/

This episode is also being shared and featured on Big Blend Radio's "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" channel and "Garden Gossip" Channel. Check out our network of podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork