Join Nancy and Lisa, your hosts of Big Blend Radio's "Pet Connection" show, as they celebrate a remarkable milestone: five incredible years of full-time pet sitting and travel with TrustedHousesitters!

In this special anniversary episode, we dive into the joys and unique experiences of pet sitting. The conversations highlight the vital role of community and clear communication in building trust and creating meaningful, immersive travel experiences. From furry friends to fascinating scaly companions and even feathered friends, Nancy and Lisa, and their guests, share their adventures caring for a diverse array of animals in homes across the country and around the globe.

We're thrilled to be joined by special guests who share their own stories and insights: - ANGELA LAWS – A veteran pet sitter, grief counselor, and community manager at https://www.trustedhousesitters.com - JUDY KARNIA – Travel writer, nature therapist, retired feline veterinarian, and pet sitter: https://travelingnature.com/ - JP & WANDA BROWN – Retired professionals living their dream pet sitting life (see their profile: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/house-and-pet-sitters/united-states/florida/tallahassee/l/2853494)

Discover the heartwarming connections formed, the variety of animals cared for, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. This episode emphasizes how pet sitting offers a sustainable and enriching lifestyle for travelers and a truly caring solution for pet parents. Tune in to hear how our hosts and guests have turned their passion for pets into a fulfilling adventure, proving that caring for animals enriches life!

Key Takeaways from This Episode: - Pet sitting fosters a unique community of animal lovers. - TrustedHousesitters bridges the gap between travelers and pet parents. - Clear communication builds essential trust. - Pet sitting enables deeply immersive travel experiences. - Routine and familiar environments help pets thrive. - Unexpected friendships often blossom on the road. - Understanding pet behavior is crucial for effective care. - Pet sitters frequently provide extra attention to pets. - The variety of animals encountered is vast.

Pet sitting leads to life-changing experiences and connections.

🐾 Listen to more "Pet Connection" episodes: https://pet-connection.podbean.com

Join host Linda Ballou (award-winning travel writer and author) and Tori Eldridge (award-winning author of "Kauai Storm") for a captivating discussion on Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" podcast. In this insightful episode, Linda and Tori delve into the rich themes of Eldridge's latest novel, "Kauai Storm," which centers on a protagonist returning to a tumultuous family reunion on Kauai.

They explore the complexities of multi-generational family dynamics and the contemporary issues faced by Native Hawaiians, including historical land ownership. Discover how "Kauai Storm" seamlessly integrates the Hawaiian language for authenticity and emphasizes the profound importance of cultural representation in literature.

The authors also highlight Ho'oponopono as a powerful method of conflict resolution and discuss the challenges and rewards of writing about one's heritage. This conversation beautifully showcases the resurgence of Hawaiian culture in modern storytelling and the universal themes of home, family, and connecting with one's roots that resonate with both local and global audiences.

Tune in for an insightful journey into Hawaiian literature and culture!

MORE ABOUT THIS EPISODE - Visit Tori Eldridge's website: https://torieldridge.com/

- Connect with Linda Ballou: * Linda's Travel Adventures & Books: https://lostangeladventures.com * Linda Ballou Author Site: http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ * New episodes of "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST. Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com

Also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Toast to The Arts" Podcast Channel. Explore the full Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans shares her recent adventure through Memphis, Tennessee, a city where music, history, and food come together in unforgettable ways. From the bluesy beats of Beale Street and the legacy of Elvis Presley at Graceland, to the comfort food of Rendezvous and Arcade Restaurant, Memphis comes alive with character and charm.

Lisa talks about the city’s colorful street art, the timeless elegance of the Peabody Hotel, and her side trip to Tupelo, Elvis's humble birthplace. She also reflects on what makes Memphis so distinct, and why this soulful city continues to inspire travelers from all walks of life.

🎵 Listen to the Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist inspired by Memphis: 👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648

🗺️ Read Lisa’s article on Memphis restaurants: https://www.foodieflashpacker.com/memphis-restaurants/

📚 Lisa Evans is the author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die 🌐 https://writerlisa.com/ 🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans

📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/