Welcome back to Day 2 of our special Jefferson Highway 4-part series, "Find Your Heart in Greenville, Texas." After exploring the incredible history at the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum in Part 1, today we look at the living, breathing pulse of this Northeast Texas community.

Recorded in the heart of downtown at Prairie Coffee House, we sit down with local leaders and residents to discuss how Greenville is growing—and doing it with integrity.

In this episode: * Stacey Foley (Greenville Tourism Manager): Our "tour guide" shares the inside scoop on Greenville’s attractions and community spirit. * Randy Tarpley (Tarpley Realtors): Insights into the booming housing market and why people are flocking to Greenville. * Hannah Bywater (Greenville Chamber of Commerce): Discussing local business growth and the town's welcoming atmosphere. * Local Perspectives: Residents Xachary Aguilar and Natalie Pegg share why this city is the perfect place to live, work, and visit.

We also highlight how Greenville is preserving its past while building its future, including the amazing Lofts on Lee vacation rentals right above us!

Links Mentioned: * Greenville Tourism: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/ * The Route: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ * Plan Your Texas Trip: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/travel-directory/texas * Part 1 of the Podcast Series: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/p/greenville-texas-part-one * Prairie Coffee House:https://prairiecoffeeco.com/ * Tarpley Realtors: https://www.tarpleyrealtors.com/ * Greenville Chamber of Commerce: https://www.greenvillechamber.com/ * Stay Updated: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/

Welcome to Part One of our special 4-Part series: "Find Your Heart in Greenville, Texas." The historic Jefferson Highway is a 115-year-old international treasure, stretching from the pines of Winnipeg to the palms of New Orleans. Today, we anchor in Northeast Texas to explore why Greenville is the ultimate "Homebase" for your Texas Jefferson Highway adventure.

We’re driving through the historic Blackland cotton fields, visiting the "Highway Sisters" of Bonham and Denison, and diving deep into the soul of the region at the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum. Our guest, Susan Lanning, shares the incredible legacy of one of America’s most decorated soldiers and the "White Gold" industry that built this community.

In This Episode: * The Homebase: Why the Comfort Suites is the perfect base for your trip. * The Drive: Navigating the history of the Blackland Prairie and the stunning Bonham courthouse. * The Legend: Susan Lanning on Audie Murphy and the American Cotton Museum. * Mascot Update: Priscilla the Sock Monkey and Stinky the Donkey hit the road!

Resources & Links: * Greenville Tourism: http://travelgreenvilletx.com/ * The Museum: https://cottonmuseum.com/ * The Route: https://jeffersonhighway.org/ * Plan Your Texas Trip: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/travel-directory/texas * Stay Updated: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/

In celebration of Route 66’s upcoming centennial, get your kicks on America’s most legendary highway with travel writer and culinary historian Amy Bizzarri. In this flavorful Big Blend Radio episode, Amy shares stories and recipes from her latest book, "Route 66 Recipes: A Culinary Cruise Along the Mother Road," (out now through The History Press, an imprint of Arcadia Publishing), spotlighting the iconic diners, classic soda fountains, regional specialties, and unforgettable roadside stops that have fueled generations of road trippers. From Chicago’s famous Lou Mitchell’s to the Midpoint Café in Adrian, the Big Texan steak challenge in Amarillo, Native American food traditions, and nostalgic chili parlors, Amy blends culinary history with travel inspiration. She also discusses driving the entire Mother Road, must-try dishes like Navajo tacos and ugly crust pie, and how local culture shapes the Route 66 experience. Amy previously joined Big Blend Radio to talk about her book "Iconic Hollywood Dishes, Drinks and Desserts." Revisit that episode here: https://bigblendradio.podbean.com/e/iconic-hollywood/ Whether you're planning a Route 66 road trip, honoring the highway’s 100-year milestone, or simply love Americana and food history, this episode serves up a delicious journey down the Mother Road. Follow Amy on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/amybizzarri/

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Historic Jefferson Highway" Show takes us to the historic Reed-Niland Corner in Colo, Iowa, a beloved crossroads and symbol of Americana along the Jefferson Highway.

As always, the show features Roger Bell, Co-Host and President of the Jefferson Highway Association, along with host and producer Lisa D. Smith. The featured guest is Brenda McGuire of the historic Reed-Niland Corner in Colo, Iowa. Follow the Reed-Niland Corner on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Reed-Niland-Corner-100064692456354/

The conversation dives into the history of COLO, a small farming community with deep roots tied to agriculture, travel, and hospitality — and a name with a memorable backstory. Local lore shares that COLO was named after a dog belonging to a railroad official, a detail that perfectly reflects the town’s small-town charm and Americana spirit.

Hear how Charlie Reed originally started the gas station to help travelers, how community members are preserving the Reed-Niland Corner through a museum and community events, and why community engagement is essential to keeping Jefferson Highway stories alive. From historic markers and nostalgic road trips to hot beef sandwiches, homemade pies, and pie-eating contests, this episode celebrates slow travel and living history.

JEFFERSON HIGHWAY RESOURCES The Jefferson Highway Association originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This international highway—also known as “The Pines to the Palms Highway”—runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. Learn more at https://jeffersonhighway.org/

- The Jefferson Highway Travel Guide Website: https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/

- Jefferson Highway Dispatch – A Substack "newsletter" publication: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/

- The Big Blend Radio "Historic Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday (except on holidays). Follow the show at https://jefferson-highway.podbean.com/

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Way Back When" and "Road Trip Radio, podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

Recorded on location at the Oklahoma Historical Society, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Podcast celebrates the Route 66 Centennial in 2026 and explores why Oklahoma is considered the heart of the Mother Road.

Travel writer and host Terri Guthrie is joined by Trait Thompson, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Historical Society and a board member of both the Oklahoma Route 66 Centennial Commission and the U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission. Together, they dive into the cultural, historical, and emotional legacy of Route 66—from its role during the Great Depression to its lasting symbolism of freedom, mobility, and Americana.

The conversation highlights Oklahoma’s 400+ mile stretch of Route 66, the towns and museums that preserve its stories, the revival of neon signage, and how modern travelers can experience the route beyond the interstate. This episode also explores family road trips, ancestry travel, and the community-driven efforts breathing new life into the Mother Road ahead of its 100th anniversary.

OKLAHOMA ROUTE 66 TRAVEL RESOURCES - Oklahoma Historical Society: https://www.okhistory.org/ - Oklahoma Route 66: https://oklahomaroute66.com/ - Travel Oklahoma: https://www.travelok.com/

FOLLOW TERRI'S ADVENTURES - https://travelwithterri.net/ - https://www.instagram.com/travelwithterri/

LISTEN - New episodes air every other Tuesday – Listen: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/ - This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station," "Road Trip Radio," and "Big Daily Blend," podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Food, Wine & Travel Show," host Linda Kissam, the Food, Wine & Shopping Diva, welcomes Annette Pitts, CEO of Visit Casper, to explore why Casper, Wyoming is an ideal road tripping destination packed with outdoor adventure, history, arts, culture, and culinary experiences.

Centrally located in Wyoming, Casper makes an easy and rewarding stop for travelers seeking wide-open landscapes and authentic Western charm. Linda and Annette dive into fly fishing on the North Platte River, scenic picnics and photography in Fremont Canyon, and the area’s deep historical roots tied to the Oregon Trail and Pony Express.

The conversation also highlights Casper’s growing culinary scene, unique downtown shopping, vibrant arts community, and cultural events such as rodeos and Indian relay races. From hiking, skiing, wildlife photography, and camping to boutique lodging, RVing, and local festivals, this episode showcases the diverse experiences that make Casper a must-visit destination.

📖 Read Linda’s article on Casper: https://open.substack.com/pub/vacationstationtravel/p/discovering-casper

🔗 Learn more about Casper, Wyoming and start planning your visit: https://www.visitcasper.com/

🔗 Explore more episodes featuring Linda Kissam: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm1LoD5wiSJu4NM4KZxuJYoj

🔗 Follow Diva Linda’s blog and adventures: https://allingoodtaste.info/

🔗 This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Road Trip Radio," "Parks & Travel," and "Vacation Station" Podcast Channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In this festive episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Travel with Terri" Show, Terri Guthrie explores Branson, Missouri, celebrating winter holidays, family fun, and classic Americana adventures. She’s joined by two special guests: Olivia Reinke from Explore Branson, and Sophia Meltke from The Ozarker Lodge.

Together, they dive into what makes Branson a magical, family-friendly destination during the holiday season — from sparkling light displays and nostalgic traditions to outdoor adventures, heartwarming entertainment, and the cozy charm of The Ozarker Lodge, perfect for unplugging and reconnecting.

The conversation also touches on Branson’s multi-generational appeal, signature attractions, festive events, local cuisine, and the rich sense of Americana that defines this iconic Ozarks town. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or looking for year-round family travel inspiration, this episode captures the spirit of Branson at its most festive.

LINKS & RESOURCES - Explore Branson: https://www.explorebranson.com/ - The Ozarker Lodge: https://www.theozarkerlodge.com/ - Travel with Terri: https://travelwithterri.net/ - This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Road Trip Radio," “Vacation Station," and “Big Daily Blend” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

This special episode of the Jefferson Highway Podcast celebrates 110 years since Edwin T. Meredith first launched the idea of the Jefferson Highway, the historic “Pine to Palm” route connecting Winnipeg to New Orleans.

Cohost Roger Bell, President of the Jefferson Highway Association, joins the conversation to explore the highway’s history, the early challenges in its creation, the role of community participation, and the ongoing mission to map, preserve, and promote this international heritage road.

Learn how traveling the Jefferson Highway supports small towns, preserves historic corridors, and continues America’s tradition of discovery through road-tripping and cultural connection. Visit the Jefferson Highway Association at https://jeffersonhighway.org/

We also highlight two major new resources now available for modern travelers: 🌐 NEW: Jefferson Highway Travel Guide Website – The brand-new online guide featuring updated travel directories, lodging, historic stops, attractions, and community resources along the route. The interactive map is in progress, but the directories are fully live. The quarterly digital Jefferson Highway Travel Guide publication will be out in January 2026. Visit https://www.jeffersonhighwaytravelguide.com/

📰 NEW: Jefferson Highway Dispatch – Our new Substack publication offering traveler insights, historical stories, updates from the road, special features, and community spotlights. Subscribe: https://jeffersonhighwaydispatch.substack.com/

🎙️ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s "Vacation Station," "Way Back When," "Road Trip Radio," and "Big Daily Blend" podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork