Quality of Life Radio

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 

Spotting the Con: Trust and Deception

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUCCESS EXPRESS Business & Career Show, Lea Brovedani, internationally recognized as “The Trust Architect,” dives into the world of con artists, deception, and trust. From the five tenets of trust to the psychology of scams, Lea unpacks why people get conned, how to recognize red flags, and the vital role of gut instincts and verification in protecting yourself.
Through stories, insights, and practical tools, the conversation highlights how con artists exploit human emotions, why reputation and recommendations matter, and how emotional intelligence can help you navigate trust in both personal and professional settings.
🔑 Key Takeaways:• Trust is built on five tenets: caring, commitment, consistency, competence, and communication.• Con artists often exploit trust and caring to manipulate others.• Listening to gut instincts is an important defense against deception.• Verification and research are essential when dealing with unfamiliar people or situations.• Love bombing is a red flag in both relationships and workplaces.• Scams often succeed by playing on desires, vulnerabilities, and emotions.• Investigative journalism plays a vital role in exposing con artists and scams.• Always trust your gut—but verify before you act.
Lea Brovedani has been named one of North America’s Top Thought Leaders on Trust by Trust Across America. She’s an author, speaker, and workshop facilitator, and her books include:📘 Trust Me: Restore Belief & Confidence in an Uncertain World📘 TRUSTED – Secret Lessons from an Inspired Leader
Beyond her leadership work, Lea is also a certified death doula, offering compassionate guidance and support for end-of-life planning.🔗 Learn more about Lea’s work on trust: https://leabrovedani.com 🔗 Explore her end-of-life services: https://souljourneydoula.com 
🎙️ Follow the SUCCESS EXPRESS Podcast: https://success-express-business.podbean.com/ 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's QUALITY OF LIFE Podcast Channel. 

Author Heidi Yewman - Dumb Girl Memoir

“Dumb Girl” (She Writes Press, Aug. 19, 2025) is an inspiring memoir of a woman who overcomes the physical, emotional, and sexual abuse of her early life to blossom into a gun violence prevention activist.
This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Wednesday "Books & Authors" Show with Books Forward features award-winning author and activist Heidi Yewman, who talks about her powerful new memoir, “Dumb Girl: A Journey from Childhood Abuse to Gun Control”.
In Dumb Girl, Heidi chronicles her life from surviving childhood abuse in a toxic environment to becoming a leading voice against gun violence. The title reflects the deep-seated struggles with self-worth shaped by her early experiences, and the book explores themes of trauma, resilience, forgiveness, and the power of community.
During this heartfelt conversation, Heidi shares how sports became a refuge, how activism provided an outlet for personal pain, and why storytelling is essential for healing and connection. She also addresses the urgent issues of gun violence, youth safety, and generational trauma—offering insights on why open, honest conversations are necessary to drive change.
Key Takeaways:- The meaning behind the title Dumb Girl and its connection to self-perception.- How childhood experiences shape identity and mental health.- The role of sports and community in fostering resilience.- Activism as a transformative path from trauma.- Why sharing stories helps lift shame and build connection.- Forgiveness as a challenging but vital part of healing.- The ongoing impact of gun violence on children and families.
🎧 Listen in and learn more about Heidi at: https://heidiyewman.com/