In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Wander the World with Sharon" Podcast, award-winning travel writer and photographer Sharon K. Kurtz takes us to Ketchum, home of the beloved Trailing of the Sheep Festival.

The conversation explores the deep-rooted history of sheep herding in Idaho and how this iconic festival celebrates ranching heritage, Basque culture, folk traditions, and the enduring importance of sheep and wool in the region. Sharon shares highlights from the festival’s parades, cultural events, and food experiences, along with insider tips on dining, shopping, and exploring Ketchum’s scenic mountain setting.

Hear about outdoor adventures, hiking opportunities, and the town’s rich literary and cultural connections—including its ties to Ernest Hemingway—making Ketchum a rewarding destination well beyond festival weekend.

🐑 Learn more about the festival and plan your visit: https://trailingofthesheep.org/

📖 Read Sharon's Article on Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/trailing-of-the-sheep-festival

📖 Check out Sharon's new Big Blend Radio "Wander the World" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/gyoy/#p=1

🌍 Learn more about travel writer & photographer Sharon K. Kurtz: https://sharonkkurtz.com

🎙️ Tune in on the first Wednesday of every month at 12pm CST: https://wandertheworldwithsharon.podbean.com

🎧 This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s Wander the World with Sharon, Vacation Station, Way Back When, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels: Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this special onsite episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast, hosts Lisa D. Smith and Nancy J. Reid join regular cohosts Steve and Karen Wilson (The Lion & The Rose B&B) at Souther Williams Vineyard in Fletcher, North Carolina — just a short, scenic drive from Asheville.

During a live wine tasting with owner Ken Parker, the conversation explores the growth of the North Carolina wine industry, the impact of climate on viticulture, and what makes mountain-grown wines so distinctive. Set on 35 acres — with 8 acres currently under vine and 6,000 grape plants supported by more than 200,000 feet of trellis wire — Souther Williams specializes in cooler-climate varietals from Austria, Eastern Europe, Germany, and Russia.

White varietals include Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Vidal Blanc, while reds feature Cynthiana (Norton), Blaufränkisch (Lemberger), Regent, Saperavi, and Cabernet Franc. At full production, this boutique winery produces approximately 1,500–2,000 cases annually.

Beyond tastings, Souther Williams Vineyard hosts live music, Hike & Sip tours, luxury picnics, corporate events, bachelorette parties, and more — making it one of the premier winery experiences near Asheville and Hendersonville.

MORE TO EXPLORE: * Learn more about Souther Williams Vineyard: https://southerwilliams.com/ * Celebrate Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend in Hendersonville, April 30–May 3, 2026: https://visithendersonvillenc.org/cider-wine-dine-weekend * Stay nearby at The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville’s Montford Historic District: https://www.lion-rose.com/

LISTEN: * Check out the NEW Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ADVENTURES-IN-ASHEVILLE/ * New episodes air every 1st Tuesday – Listen: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ * This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Eat, Drink & Be Merry" and "Vacation Station" podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Travel with Terri" Podcast, we explore the spirit, stories, and evolving legacy of the American West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.

Host Terri Guthrie talks with Seth Spillman about how “The Cowboy” preserves and redefines Western storytelling through art, artifacts, Native American history, rodeo culture, ranching traditions, and immersive experiences that bring the West to life.

A major highlight is the groundbreaking new installation, “The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey,” a 360-degree cinematic experience that surrounds visitors with sweeping landscapes, historic imagery, and original music — placing them inside the story of the American West.

Hear the Museum’s newest exhibition, “Route 66: From Trails to Truck Stops,” that celebrates the 100th anniversary of America’s most beloved highway. The exhibit explores Route 66’s deep ties to Western migration, cowboy culture, and Oklahoma’s pivotal role along the Mother Road.

From Native American dwellings and interactive exhibits to pop culture influences like classic Western films and modern icons, this episode celebrates the grit, resilience, artistry, and diversity that define the West — past, present, and future.

🔗 Plan your visit: https://nationalcowboymuseum.org/ 🔗 Follow Terri’s adventures: https://travelwithterri.net/ 🔗 New episodes air every other Tuesday – Listen: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/