Quality of Life Radio

Here Comes the Sun - Bill McKibben on Solar Power, Climate Action and the Economy

This episode of Big Blend Radio features renowned author, climate activist, and clean energy expert Bill McKibben, who talks about the transformative power of solar energy and his new book HERE COMES THE SUN: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization (W.W. Norton & Company; Aug. 19, 2025).
McKibben explains why solar power is now the cheapest energy on the planet and no longer an “alternative” but the mainstream solution for businesses, communities, and households. As he puts it, “We’re used to thinking of solar energy as the Whole Foods of energy—nice, but pricey. The reality is that it’s now the Costco of energy: cheap, available in bulk, and on the shelf.”
From the economic advantages of electrification and job creation, to the health impacts of moving away from fossil fuels, McKibben highlights how clean energy is reshaping policy, industry, and everyday life. He also shares insights on the upcoming Sun Day (Sept. 21, 2025), a nationwide grassroots mobilization he’s organizing alongside Denis Hayes (the original Earth Day founder) to raise awareness about the economic and community benefits of solar.
More:https://billmckibben.com/ https://www.sunday.earth/ 

Code 3 Film Interview with Christopher Leone and Patrick Pianezza

This episode of Big Blend Radio features director Christopher Leone (Parallels) and screenwriter Patrick Pianezza, creators of the new film CODE 3, starring Rainn Wilson (The Office), Lil Rel Howery (Get Out), and Aimee Carrero (Your Friends and Neighbors).
Opening in theaters nationwide on September 12, 2025 via AURA Entertainment, CODE 3 follows one intense, unpredictable, and hilariously real day in the life of two burnt-out paramedics. Inspired by actual paramedic stories, the film balances comedy and truth to highlight the financial struggles, emotional toll, teamwork, and underappreciation of EMS workers.More: https://www.instagram.com/code3movie/ 

What Is Peripheral Vascular Disease?

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie” Podcast observes National Peripheral Artery Disease Awareness Month withb oard-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany, author of “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story,” who discusses the critical connection between peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and heart health.
The conversation covers risk factors like diabetes and smoking, recognizing symptoms such as intermittent claudication, and the importance of proactive lifestyle choices. Dr. Jackie also shares insights on dietary habits, managing cholesterol with medications like statins, and the role of regular health management in preventing serious complications such as amputation.
⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 – Understanding Peripheral Vascular Disease03:05 – The Connection Between Diabetes and Heart Health05:40 – The Impact of Smoking on Vascular Health08:20 – Recognizing Symptoms of Peripheral Vascular Disease11:06 – The Importance of Diet in Heart Health13:52 – Managing Cholesterol and Medications16:30 – Proactive Health Management19:14 – The Role of Lifestyle in Heart Disease Prevention19:47 – Closing Thoughts
📘 Learn more about her best-selling book: https://womenandheartdiseasebook.com/ 
🔔 New episodes air every 2nd Wednesday! Subscribe: https://hearthealthyliving-drjackie.podbean.com/ 
🎧 Also featured on Big Blend’s “Quality of Life” & Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

The Art of Shifting: Small Changes, Big Impact

In celebration of Self-Awareness Month, this insightful episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show features transformational life coach Shelley Whizin exploring the art of shifting—how small adjustments in life can lead to profound and lasting transformations.
The conversation delves into the importance of self-awareness, authentic communication, and the role of workshops in personal growth. Shelley emphasizes the value of recognizing even the smallest achievements, living authentically, and creating ripple effects that bring more joy and balance into our lives. She also shares wisdom on navigating relationships, honoring the soul within the human experience, and embracing mistakes as opportunities for learning.
🧘 Key Takeaways:- Small shifts can create significant life changes- Self-awareness is essential for recognizing and celebrating achievements- Communication from the heart fosters deeper connections- Workshops can provide tools and insights for growth- Our human experience is intertwined with the soul- Living authentically is key to true happiness and fulfillment- Mistakes are valuable lessons for growth- The ripple effects of our choices influence relationships and joy- Recognizing and validating our efforts enhances self-perception- Self-discovery is an ongoing journey of patience and kindness
📘 Read Shelley’s article: The Art of Shifting: Tiny Adjustments, Big Changes: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/the-art-of-shifting-tiny-adjustments-big-changes/ 
📚 Get her book What Do You Bring to the Table? on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/What-You-Bring-Table-Inspirational/dp/1087932106 
🎧 Listen to Soul Diving Sunday with Shelley. New episodes drop every first Sunday: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm20NIMflxEGwyLKTjkxkFXk  📺 This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life” and “Big Daily Blend” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

From Heartbreak to Healing with Sarah May

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, author Sarah May discusses her inspiring memoir, She Journeys: A Memoir of Heartbreak and Homecoming (She Writes Press, Sept. 9, 2025). Through her personal story, Sarah shares how she overcame heartbreak, trauma, and toxic relationships, ultimately creating a life rooted in freedom, gratitude, and love.
In this heartfelt conversation, Sarah reflects on the importance of nature, rituals, and gratitude in the healing process. She opens up about reclaiming personal power, embracing vulnerability, and building healthy relationships, while encouraging others to take responsibility for their own happiness. By sharing her journey, Sarah hopes to empower listeners to find hope, healing, and renewal in their own lives.
💚 This episode is part of our National Wellness Month and Happiness Happens Month coverage, highlighting the power of resilience, healing, and choosing joy.
Learn more at: www.shejourneys.us 
Key Takeaways:- Healing and self-discovery are lifelong journeys shaped by resilience.- Nature, rituals, and gratitude can guide personal transformation.- Building healthy relationships begins with personal growth and boundaries.- Sharing stories creates connection and empowerment.
Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Sarah May and Her Journey04:45 – Life on the Road: The Van Life Experience09:12 – Overcoming Darkness: The Journey of Healing13:38 – Recognizing and Escaping Toxic Relationships18:27 – The Power of Rituals in Healing23:06 – Creating a New Life: From Trauma to Freedom24:37 – Navigating Divorce and Relationships26:29 – Understanding Abuse and Control28:11 – Healing from Trauma and Personal Growth30:02 – Reclaiming Personal Power30:54 – The Healing Power of Nature34:39 – Building Trust in New Relationships36:45 – Gratitude and Personal Responsibility42:51 – Empowering Women Through Healing

Ending Redlining: Josh Silver on Reforming the Community Reinvestment Act

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, longtime fair lending and CRA expert Josh Silver discusses his new book, Ending Redlining: Through a Community-Centered Reform of the Community Reinvestment Act (Armin Lear Press, March 25, 2025). With the first major overhaul of CRA rules in nearly three decades set to take effect in January 2026, Silver explains what these changes mean for banks, communities, and the future of economic justice.
From the rise of online banking and cryptocurrency to the challenges of gentrification and housing affordability, Silver shares why a community-centered approach to banking reform is essential to ensuring fair lending and reinvestment in historically underserved neighborhoods. He also highlights the role of community banks, the power of documenting success stories, and how everyday citizens can take action to foster lasting change.
Learn more about Josh Silver and his work:Website: https://www.endredline.com/ Substack: https://joshsilver.substack.com/ 

Youth and Heart Disease: A Growing Concern

Big Blend Radio’s “Heart Healthy Living with Dr. Jackie” Podcast
In recognition of National Wellness Month and Back to School season, board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jacqueline Eubany—author of “Women and Heart Disease: The Real Story”—shines a light on the alarming rise of heart disease among younger generations.
The conversation explores key risk factors such as vaping, stress, obesity, and diabetes, while emphasizing the role of families in fostering healthy eating habits, physical activity, and heart health awareness. Dr. Jackie also discusses the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, the importance of routine checkups, and how family involvement can make a life-saving difference in promoting healthier lifestyles for kids and teens.
📘 Learn more about her book: https://womenandheartdiseasebook.com/ 
⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 – National Wellness Month and Heart Health Awareness03:37 – The Impact of Vaping on Heart Health05:53 – Stress, Anxiety, and Their Effects on Youth10:00 – The Dangers of Drug Use on Heart Health13:00 – Family Responsibility in Heart Health16:13 – The Mediterranean Diet and Heart Health18:52 – The Importance of Family Activities for Heart Health21:47 – Understanding Stents and Heart Health23:55 – Back to School: Prioritizing Family Heart Health25:15 – Closing Thoughts
🔔 New episodes air every 2nd Wednesday! Subscribe: https://hearthealthyliving-drjackie.podbean.com/ 
🎧 Also featured on Big Blend’s “Quality of Life” & Big Daily Blend podcast channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Holler – A Graphic Memoir of Resistance with Denali Sai Nalamalapu

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s Nature Connection show features climate storyteller and activist Denali Sai Nalamalapu, author of “Holler: A Graphic Memoir of Rural Resistance” (Timber Press / Hachette, May 13, 2025).
Based in Southwest Virginia, Nalamalapu is a powerful new voice in climate storytelling and a leader in one of Appalachia’s most courageous environmental resistance movements. Holler chronicles the fight against the Mountain Valley Pipeline through the eyes of six local activists—a teacher, a nurse, a photographer, and more—who dared to challenge corporate power and government complicity in the heart of coal country.
The conversation explores:- How visual storytelling makes climate issues more accessible.- The diverse perspectives and skill sets that strengthen grassroots movements.- The importance of community involvement in resisting fossil fuel expansion.- How innovation, education, and personal stories can drive climate action.- Why self-care and balance are vital for sustaining long-term activism.
Blending personal insight, lived experience, and stunning visual storytelling, Nalamalapu offers a moving and empowering look at resilience, resistance, and the future of the climate movement. More at: https://denali-sai.com/ 
🎧 This Nature Connection episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Quality of Life" and "Rants, Raves & Rock" Channels: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork