Quality of Life Radio

Everwoven: Memoirist Megan Margherio on Trauma, Resilience & Self-Reclamation

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Quality of Life" Podcast features author Megan Margherio discussing her powerful memoir, "Everwoven: A Memoir, A Reckoning."
More than a traditional memoir, "Everwoven" is a deeply personal reckoning with trauma, survival, healing, and self-discovery. Through raw conversations with her former selves, Megan explores the lasting impacts of childhood sexual abuse, emotional neglect, intimate partner violence, grief, and self-abandonment, while illuminating the courageous journey from merely surviving to truly living.
In this candid conversation, Megan discusses trauma, resilience, self-worth, the importance of being believed, the role of therapy and self-reflection, and how healing often begins when we stop running from our pain and start listening to the stories we carry within ourselves. Together, we explore concepts of survival mode, emotional reckoning, forgiveness, personal empowerment, boundaries, trust, and finding joy after trauma.
The discussion also highlights the importance of kindness, mental health awareness, self-compassion, and creating space for authentic conversations that help break cycles of abuse and isolation.
Learn more: https://www.meganmargherio.com/ 

Travel Writer & Storyteller Elaine Masters: Following Wonder Through Travel, Nature & Life

In this special "Getting to Know You" episode of Big Blend Radio, we celebrate National Creativity Day and reconnect with longtime Big Blend friend, travel writer, author, and storyteller Elaine Masters as part of the launch of our new online community, Big Blend Media House, and its Front Porch News newsletter.
A longtime Big Blend contributor and friend, Elaine is known for her thoughtful travel writing, cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and love of water adventures. Hear about her experiences diving with manta rays, exploring destinations around the world, contributing to a National Geographic travel book, and working on her upcoming spiritual travel memoir, "Where Wonder Leads." 
Along the way, Elaine discusses the importance of cultural respect, trusting your intuition, embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, sustainable living practices, the value of independent media, and how travel, nature, and storytelling can enrich our lives.
LEARN MORE:• Visit: https://www.tripwellgal.com/ • Insider Q&A: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/elaine-masters-travel-writer-success-insider  • Check Out: https://bigblendmediahouse.com 

Author Margaret Whitford: War, Family History & Resilience

This Memorial Day weekend episode of Big Blend Radio features author Margaret Whitford who discusses her powerful new memoir, "The History We Carry, A Daughter's Memoir," releasing June 2, 2026 through She Writes Press.
In this moving conversation, Margaret reflects on the emotional legacy of war, family estrangement, inherited trauma, and the healing power of storytelling. As families across America honor loved ones on Memorial Day, this episode explores how the devastation of World War II continues to ripple through generations, shaping identity, relationships, and emotional well-being.
Margaret shares how her mother’s experiences—including war, violence, and trauma—created emotional distance within their relationship, and how writing this memoir became a path toward compassion, understanding, and healing. The conversation also explores PTSD, epigenetics, silence within families, resilience, and the importance of telling our stories.
Pre-order and learn more about Margaret Whitford and "The History We Carry" at https://margaretwhitford.com/books/the-history-we-carry/  

Getting to Know Author Cheryl Leutjen: Eco-Chic Living, Community & Partying with Purpose

In this special “Getting to Know You” episode of Big Blend Radio, we chat with author, environmental attorney, geologist, and eco-conscious living expert Cheryl Leutjen about sustainability, creativity, community building, and finding joy in challenging times.
Known as “The Eco-Worrier,” Cheryl shares how humor, playfulness, and intentional gatherings can help people reconnect with nature and each other. From creating pollinator gardens and fairy gardens to hosting eco-chic parties with purpose, this inspiring conversation explores practical ways to live more consciously while still embracing fun, beauty, and celebration.
The discussion also highlights Cheryl’s upcoming book, "Party on Purpose: Your Complete Guide to Eco-Chic Entertaining," along with her passion for protecting Earth’s Life Support Systems through everyday action and meaningful community connection.
Learn more about Cheryl and subscribe to her newsletter:https://cherylleutjen.com/ https://loveearthnow.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/loveearthnow/ 
This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s new “Getting to Know You” series celebrating the new Big Blend Media House and its "Front Porch" Newsletter. Visit: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

Author Rocky Callen: YA Novel “A Breath Too Late” and Mental Health Awareness

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features acclaimed YA author Rocky Callen discussing her powerful and deeply personal novel, "A Breath Too Late." Inspired by her own struggles with depression and suicide ideation, Rocky shares how storytelling, art, friendship, and community can help foster healing, hope, and connection.
Re-released through Sunderhaus Press and timed to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day (Sept. 8, 2026), "A Breath Too Late" follows seventeen-year-old Ellie as she navigates an emotional out-of-body journey after her death by suicide, piecing together memories, relationships, trauma, and the moments that shaped her life. Told in an epistolary-like style, the novel sensitively explores mental health, generational trauma, grief, love, and the possibility of hope even in the darkest moments.
During the conversation, Rocky discusses the cathartic process of writing, the importance of creating safe spaces for honest conversations about mental health, and how art can serve as both expression and survival. She also talks about her advocacy work through HoldOn2Hope, a project uniting creatives in suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
Learn more about Rocky Callen: https://rockycallen.com/ Pre-order A Breath Too Late: https://abreathtoolate.com/ Learn more about HoldOn2Hope: https://www.holdon2hope.org/ 

Directory Loren Goldfarb - 96 Pounds of Dynamite Documentary

What happens when determination, talent, and resilience collide against all odds? In this inspiring Big Blend Radio episode, we explore the powerful documentary "96 Pounds of Dynamite" with director Loren Goldfarb, following the extraordinary journey of Chad “Shorty” McDaniel, a competitive pool player living with brittle bone disease (Osteogenesis Imperfecta).
The film captures Chad’s path from small-town Mississippi pool halls to high-level amateur competition, while also sharing the personal struggles, discrimination, and life-changing decisions he faces along the way. Through humor, grit, and authenticity, Chad challenges assumptions about disability and reminds us of the importance of dignity, focus, and self-belief.
The conversation also dives into the art of documentary filmmaking, the role films can play in building compassion and awareness, and how Chad’s story continues to inspire audiences nationwide.
"96 Pounds of Dynamite" won the Audience Choice Award at the 2026 Vero Beach Film Festival and features executive producer Jeanette Lee, also known as “The Black Widow.”
The film releases May 11, 2026 on Amazon and Apple TV. Learn more at https://dynamite-film.com/ 

Henry Biernacki’s Global Legacy: World Travel, Giving Back & Educating Girls in Africa

In this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Henry Biernacki—world traveler, airline captain, author, and humanitarian who explored over 179 countries and territories, and believed deeply that “travel is the best education you can get.”
Joining us is his mother, Sindy Biernacki, who shares heartfelt stories about Henry’s adventures, his passion for cultural connection, and his commitment to making a difference—especially through supporting girls’ education in Africa.
In his memory, Sindy founded The Steppes of Henry Foundation, continuing his mission to empower young women through education, opportunity, and hope.
This episode is especially meaningful around Cinco de Mayo—honoring Henry’s love of Mexico—and African World Heritage Day, reflecting his lasting impact through education and humanitarian efforts in Africa.
🎙️ In this episode, you’ll discover:Henry’s global travel adventures and philosophyThe mission and impact of The Steppes of Henry FoundationWhy educating girls in Africa creates lasting changeHow travel fosters empathy, understanding, and purposeHenry’s journey overcoming learning challenges
📚 Books by Henry Biernacki: https://theglobalhenry.org/books/  No More HeroesThe SteppeA Steppe Away
🌍 Explore Henry’s story, books, travel photos & foundation: https://theglobalhenry.org/ 
🎥 Watch Videos:- Henry Biernacki's Travel Philosophy: https://youtu.be/214_yWmtIyU?si=TfeHkPTnzVS1aIcf - A Steppe Away Overview: https://youtu.be/YM52JQzcUAs?si=OREe6aJR9o01s4ZW - Remembering Henry Biernacki Playlist (Big Blend Media):https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkMKSIzdC1BVSX1nB9x57ZhGmy3SUM6oh 

Author Laurie Collister on Her Memoir "A Different Kind of Vow: Rewriting My Happily Ever After"

On this inspiring episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Quality of Life" Show, we’re joined by counselor, journalist, and debut memoirist Laurie Collister to discuss her powerful new book, "A Different Kind of Vow: Rewriting My Happily Ever After."
Through humor, honesty, and deep reflection, Laurie shares how surviving a house fire that spared her lifelong journals led her to reexamine her path—and ultimately redefine success, purpose, and identity. From choosing not to follow traditional expectations of marriage and motherhood to embracing spiritual exploration and self-discovery, her journey offers a fresh perspective on what it means to live authentically.
In this conversation, we explore the healing power of journaling, memoir writing as a tool for growth, and how to uncover your own “sacred vow”—a personal sense of purpose that guides your life.
🔗 Learn more: https://lauriecollister.com/