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 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/

In this fascinating episode of Big Blend Radio's "Global Adventures" Show, travel writer Debbie Stone explores the history, legends, and living culture of Easter Island, one of the world’s most remote and intriguing destinations.

From the iconic Moai statues and the enduring mysteries surrounding their construction and transport to the powerful traditions of the Rapa Nui people, Debbie shares insights from her firsthand experiences on this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The conversation delves into the island’s ancient Birdman ritual, the impact of European contact, and the importance of cultural preservation and responsible tourism today.

Listeners will also discover what makes Easter Island’s landscape so uniquely breathtaking, along with helpful travel tips for visiting respectfully and meaningfully. Whether you're fascinated by archaeology, Polynesian culture, or bucket-list island adventures, this episode reveals why Easter Island offers visitors a truly unforgettable blend of culture, legend, and landscape.

🔗 Read Debbie’s companion article: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/exploring-easter-island 🔗Read Debbie's "Global Adventures" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/qiqy/#p=1