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