Food, Wine, and Travel with IFWTWA

Exploring Tacoma with Author Peggy Cleveland

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), celebrates American Adventures Month with travel writer and author Peggy Cleveland, who discusses the second edition of her book "100 Things to Do in Tacoma Before You Die" (Reedy Press, Sept. 1, 2025).
Often overshadowed by nearby Seattle, Tacoma shines with its blend of mountain, city, and sea—offering a rare mix of culture, adventure, and community spirit. Peggy’s book highlights hidden gems, cultural attractions, culinary delights, and outdoor activities, with insider itineraries and tips for exploring all that Tacoma, Washington has to offer.
🎧 Listen in for:- Why Tacoma is a hidden treasure with a rich railroad and military history- The influence of glass artist Dale Chihuly on Tacoma’s vibrant art scene- Family-friendly attractions like the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium- Outdoor adventures and quirky finds, from gondola rides to waterfront trails- Tacoma’s diverse food scene and the importance of supporting small businesses- Events and festivals that showcase the city’s community spirit- Peggy’s personal journey and why she chose Tacoma as her forever home
📘 Get the book: 100 Things to Do in Tacoma Before You Die: https://reedypress.com 🌍 Follow Peggy’s adventures: https://peggywhereshouldigo.com/ 🍷 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 

Medford’s Award-Winning Wine, Beer & Culinary Treasures

Celebrate American Adventures Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with IFWTWA, as we explore the vibrant food, wine, and beer scene of Medford, Oregon with Carole Skeeters-Stevens of Travel Medford.  
This Southern Oregon region is home to the Rogue Valley American Viticultural Area, recently named the #2 Best Wine Region in the United States by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
From over 70 wine varietals to craft breweries, fertile farmlands, and seasonal events, Medford offers a delicious mix of flavors and experiences. It’s also the hometown of two culinary legends: the world-famous Harry & David, known for gourmet gift baskets and artisanal treats, and the award-winning Rogue Creamery, celebrated for its world-class blue cheese. You can also visit Crater Lake National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder and perfect picnic destination. 
The conversation highlights how the region blends winemaking innovation with deep-rooted traditions, supports sustainable agriculture, and embraces the beauty of each season—especially in the fall. You’ll also hear about outdoor adventures, community hospitality, and how Travel Medford makes it easy to plan your visit.
🍷 Plan your trip: https://www.travelmedford.org/ 🎧 Subscribe & Listen: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 🍷 Discover  the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA): https://ifwtwa.org 
📢 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's Vacation Station, Big Daily Blend, and Eat, Drink & Be Merry podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
Photos courtesy Travel Medford. 

Mississippi River Country Road Trip: Minnesota, Wisconsin & Illinois

Celebrate American Adventures Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). Travel writer Melody Pittman shares highlights from her scenic and delicious road trip through the heart of Mississippi River Country, covering memorable stops in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
In this lively conversation, Melody talks about exploring national parks, roadside attractions, and family-friendly casinos, plus enjoying local cuisine, architectural marvels like Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs, and charming Midwest towns. The discussion touches on everything from the Mall of America to cheese curds, whiskey tastings, and the hospitality that makes the Midwest a must-visit for road trippers.
🎧 Listen in for tips on culinary stops, cultural gems, and fun, budget-friendly activities for all ages!
Read Melody's article: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-the-heart-of-mississippi-river-country/ Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org Subscribe to the show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 
This episode also streams on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Vacation Station,” “Road Trip Radio,” and “Parks & Travel” channels. 

Exploring the Hidden Gems of Birmingham with Cherith Glover Fulker

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer and author Cherith Glover Fulker talks about her upcoming book, Secret Birmingham: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure (Reedy Press, Aug. 1, 2025).
From jazz legends and civil rights history to cast iron giants and century-old baseball fields, Cherith shares fascinating and lesser-known stories that make Birmingham, Alabama a truly unforgettable destination. Learn about the city's vibrant food scene, family-friendly attractions, and the power of community connection. Cherith also opens up about her journey into travel writing and how personal history and curiosity fuel her work.
🎧 Listen in for:- Birmingham’s unique cultural legacy and quirky landmarks- The story behind the Vulcan—the world’s largest cast iron statue- Hidden gems like Rickwood Field, the oldest baseball park in the U.S.- Cherith’s travel writing origins and the inspiration behind her book- Why local voices and community engagement matter
📘 Get the book: "Secret Birmingham" – https://reedypress.com/author/fluker/cherith-fluker/ 🌍 Follow Cherith’s adventures: https://whatcherithinks.com/ 🍷 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 

A Taste of Reims: Fabulous Champagne Houses & Acclaimed Restaurants

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Scott Kendall shares highlights from his journey through Reims, the heart of France’s Champagne region. From visiting historic champagne houses and attending educational tastings to savoring an unforgettable meal at the Michelin-starred Arbane Restaurant, Scott talks about the region’s rich history, its unique winemaking traditions, and the value of cultural connections while traveling.
Scott Kendall is a Texas-based travel writer, photographer, and videographer. He’s the editor of PlayStayEat.com and has been published in EuropeUpClose, Epicurean Traveler, Food Wine Travel Magazine, and more. Visit his site: https://playstayeat.com 
- Read Scott’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/reims-fabulous-champagne-houses-and-dining-at-michelin-starred-arbane-restaurant/ - Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org - Subscribe to the show: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com - Explore more Big Blend shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

CityPASS: Save Big and Travel Smart on Family Adventures

Celebrate National Family Reunion Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel Show” with IFWTWA, featuring Meg Heinen of CityPASS. Discover how CityPASS helps families save big on top attractions across North America’s most iconic cities.
Meg shares the evolution of CityPASS, the diversity of attractions to experience, and the benefits of using the CityPASS app for easy reservations and ticket management. Perfect for families and group travel, CityPASS offers convenience, flexibility, and serious savings!
🗺️ Featured destinations include: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, New York City, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Southern California (includes LA), Tampa Bay, and Toronto.
From historic sites and botanical gardens to thrilling amusement parks and museums, CityPASS caters to all ages—and even makes a great gift for students and frequent travelers.
🎟️ Learn more: https://www.citypass.com 🍷 Discover IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎧 Subscribe & Listen: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 

Family Adventures: Theme Parks, Cruises & Multigenerational Travel

Happy National Family Month! This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), fatures travel writer Sarah Gilliland who shares tips for planning meaningful and fun-filled family vacations—especially to theme parks, on cruises, and through multi-generational travel.
From budgeting and bonding to immersive attractions and educational takeaways, Sarah highlights how travel builds lasting memories and helps kids connect with new cultures. The conversation also touches on Alabama’s family-friendly offerings and the evolution of theme parks into rich, interactive experiences.
🎧 Listen and find all related links and resources (and a fun jigsaw puzzle): https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/family-adventures-theme-parks-cruises-multigenerational-travel/ 
Sarah Gilliland is a freelance travel journalist and family travel expert. She’s a member of IFWTWA, a Travel Media Showcase journalist, and the voice behind Sarah in the Suburbs.🌍 Keep up with Sarah’s adventures at: https://ontheroadwithsarah.com 
🍷 Discover IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday:https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Dail Blend Channels.

Exploring Vicksburg, Mississippi: History, Culture & Culinary Delights

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), travel writer Susan Lanier-Graham returns to share her recent experiences in historic Vicksburg, Mississippi. From the powerful stories behind the Civil War to the vibrant arts and culinary scenes, Susan highlights what makes this Southern city such a meaningful and engaging destination.
The conversation dives into the impact of the Civil War on Vicksburg, the importance of the Vicksburg National Military Park, and the city’s rich blend of history, culture, and modern charm.
📖 Read Susan’s article:“Vicksburg National Military Park & Beyond”👉 https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/vicksburg-national-military-park-and-beyond 
Susan Lanier-Graham is an experienced journalist, editor, storyteller, and author with a passion for purposeful travel and meaningful connection. Along with being the managing editor of an Arizona lifestyle publication, and an editor and contributor to Newsweek, Susan is the publisher and founder of Wander With Wonder: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/ 
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 
🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 
🎧 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station," "Parks  & Travel," and "Way Back When" Channels. Check out our network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork