Southern California in Bloom: Botanical Gardens, Hidden Gems & Garden Escapes

Lessons Learned from Travel: High Sierra Adventure & Wilderness Safety

July is Parks & Recreation Month, making it the perfect time to celebrate the beauty of America's public lands while learning how to explore them safely and responsibly. In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Podcast, award-winning travel writer Linda Ballou shares one of the most unforgettable stories from her memoir "Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales." Inspired by naturalist John Muir, Linda embarked on a horseback journey through California's magnificent High Sierra wilderness where unexpected accidents, injuries, and a dramatic helicopter rescue became powerful lessons in outdoor adventure. As part of her Lessons Learned from Travel series, Linda discusses how to choose reputable outfitters, why guide training matters, the importance of emergency medical evacuation insurance, and how proper preparation can help travelers safely enjoy national parks, wilderness areas, and other outdoor destinations. Whether you're planning a hiking trip, horseback ride, rafting adventure, or visit to a national or state park, this episode offers practical advice for exploring responsibly while protecting the wild places we love. Resource Links 📖 Read Linda's companion article: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/not-all-outfitters-are-created-equal/ [https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/not-all-outfitters-are-created-equal/]  🎧 Listen to the audiobook edition of Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Angel-Walkabout-Travelers-Tales/dp/ [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Angel-Walkabout-Travelers-Tales/dp/]  🌍 Linda Ballou: https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com [https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com]  https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com [https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com]  🎧 Subscribe: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com [https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com]  📖 Explore the NEW Lost Angel Travel Adventures Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/ [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/]

Lessons Learned from Travel: Look Both Ways on Small Islands

In Part One of her new "Lessons Learned from Travel" series, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares a memorable story from her award-winning travel memoir, Lost Angel Walkabout. In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show, Linda reads an excerpt from her story "Look Both Ways on Small Islands," recounting her first international solo adventure to Tahiti. What began as a dream trip through Bora Bora and Moorea quickly turned into an unexpected lesson in awareness, perception, and personal safety when local authorities mistakenly suspected her of involvement in a drug investigation.  Linda reflects on the travel lessons she learned from the experience, including the importance of situational awareness, trusting your instincts, and understanding that when you travel, you're never as anonymous as you think. The conversation also explores solo travel, personal growth, travel safety, and how these early adventures ultimately inspired the title of her book series, "Lost Angel Adventures." 📖 Listen to the audiobook edition of Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler's Tales on Audible: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Angel-Walkabout-Travelers-Tales/dp/ [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Angel-Walkabout-Travelers-Tales/dp/]  🌍 Follow Linda's Books & Adventures: https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com [https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com]  https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com [https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST. Subscribe from your favorite podcast platform: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com [https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com]  📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/ [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/]

Topanga Canyon Adventures: Music, Hiking & Hidden Gems in the Santa Monica Mountains

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Show, travel writer and author Linda Ballou shares why she fell in love with Topanga Canyon, the artistic and spiritual enclave nestled in California’s Santa Monica Mountains. From wildflower-covered hiking trails and sweeping ocean views to live music festivals, eclectic shops, and hidden gathering spaces, Linda explores the unique culture and community spirit that makes Topanga so special. Learn about the canyon’s deep ties to music legends like Neil Young, Canned Heat, and The Doors, along with the history of beloved venues like The Corral. Linda also discusses local treasures including Theatricum Botanicum, the magical Inn of the Seventh Ray, the artistic sanctuary of Jalan Jalan Imports, and the vibrant community hub of Pine Tree Circle. The conversation highlights the canyon’s hiking culture, Indigenous history, spiritual traditions, and the restorative power of nature that continues to draw artists, musicians, writers, and seekers to this hidden corner of Southern California. Plus, Linda reads from her essay, “My Season in the Canyon.” 📝 Read Linda’s article: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/linda-ballou-offers-a-toast-to-her-beloved-topanga-town-in-californias-santa-monica-mountains/ [https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/adventure-travel/linda-ballou-offers-a-toast-to-her-beloved-topanga-town-in-californias-santa-monica-mountains/]  📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/ [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/]  🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures: https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.co [https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.co]m  https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST:  https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com [https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com]

Southern California in Bloom: Botanical Gardens, Hidden Gems & Garden Escapes

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Show, travel writer Linda Ballou takes us on a vibrant journey through some of Southern California’s most stunning botanical gardens. From the colorful tulip displays at Descanso Gardens to the expansive collections at The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, Linda shares her favorite places to experience spring blooms, tranquil landscapes, and diverse plant life. Discover the scenic hillside paths of Ventura Botanical Gardens, the native plant sanctuary of Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and the magical, world-renowned beauty of Lotusland. As a special bonus, Linda also highlights Sacred Space in Summerlin, a peaceful meditation garden that offers a unique retreat for reflection and connection. Along the way, Linda shares tips for planning your visits, insights on the importance of native plants and conservation, and why botanical gardens offer a meaningful way to connect with nature. 🌿 Garden Websites & Article Links: Descanso Gardens: https://www.descansogardens.org [https://www.descansogardens.org]  The Huntington: https://www.huntington.org [https://www.huntington.org]  Ventura Botanical Gardens: https://www.venturabotanicalgardens.com [https://www.venturabotanicalgardens.com]  Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: https://sbbotanicgarden.org [https://sbbotanicgarden.org]  Lotusland: https://www.lotusland.org [https://www.lotusland.org]  Sacred Space: https://lostangeladventures.com/f/top-secret-sacred-space [https://lostangeladventures.com/f/top-secret-sacred-space]  Southern California Gardens Article: https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/linda-ballou-shares-her-five-favorite-southern-california-botanical-gardens/ [https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/linda-ballou-shares-her-five-favorite-southern-california-botanical-gardens/] 📖 Explore the NEW “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/ [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/podcast-retrospective/]  🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures: https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com [https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com]  https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com [https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST: Big Blend Radio: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com [https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com]

Rejuvenate in Sedona: Trails, Vortexes & Desert Wonders

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Lost Angel Travel Adventures” Show, travel writer Linda Ballou explores the breathtaking beauty, rejuvenating energy, and outdoor adventures of Sedona, Arizona. Known for its striking red rock landscapes and powerful vortex sites, Sedona offers a unique blend of natural wonder and spiritual renewal. Linda shares insider tips on hiking trails, from must-see paths to hidden gems, along with guidance on trail planning, safety, and making the most of your outdoor experience. The conversation also dives into Sedona’s deeper cultural roots, including its connection to Indigenous traditions, the importance of supporting local artisans, and how visitors can experience the region respectfully. From stargazing under expansive desert skies to discovering the magic of Oak Creek and seasonal desert blooms, this episode invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and embrace the transformative energy of Sedona. 📝 Read Linda’s article: https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/rejuvenate-in-sedona [https://vacationstationtravel.substack.com/p/rejuvenate-in-sedona]     🌍 Follow Linda’s Books & Adventures:  https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com [https://www.LindaBallouAuthor.com]  https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com [https://www.LostAngelAdventures.com]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST. Subscribe: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com [https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com]   Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Vacation Station” and “Parks & Travel” Podcast Channels. Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork [https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork]