Journey Jukebox with Lisa

Exploring Indiana's Amish Country: Craftsmanship, Community & Culture in Shipshewana

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the fascinating culture, traditions, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Amish and Mennonite communities in Shipshewana. From handcrafted furniture and pottery to leatherwork, quilting, dairy farming, and buggy making, Lisa shares her experiences meeting local artisans and learning how family, faith, and community shape daily life in Indiana's Amish Country. Highlights include visits to a traditional buggy maker, conversations about Amish and Mennonite history, and discovering how small businesses thrive through craftsmanship and strong community values. The episode also explores the region's culinary traditions, farming practices, local markets, and unique cultural attractions that offer visitors a deeper understanding of one of America's most distinctive communities. As America approaches its 250th birthday, Amish Country provides a meaningful opportunity to experience traditions, entrepreneurship, and heritage that continue to shape the nation's story. PLAN YOUR VISIT  - Shipshewana Visitor Center: https://visitshipshewana.org/ [https://visitshipshewana.org/]  - Menno-Hof Amish & Mennonite Information Center: https://menno-hof.squarespace.com/ [https://menno-hof.squarespace.com/]  - Riverwood Pottery: https://www.riverwood-pottery.com/ [https://www.riverwood-pottery.com/]  - Teaberry Wood Products: https://shopteaberry.com/ [https://shopteaberry.com/]  - Silver Star Leather: https://www.silverstarleather.com/ [https://www.silverstarleather.com/]  KEEP UP WITH LISA - Follow Lisa's Stories: https://writerlisa.com/ [https://writerlisa.com/]  - Subscribe to Journey Jukebox: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ [https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/]  - Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596]  - Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1]

Natchez, Mississippi: Adventures in History, Culture & Cuisine

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans explores the timeless beauty, layered history, and Southern charm of Natchez, one of the oldest settlements along the mighty Mississippi River. From elegant antebellum homes and historic landmarks to river cruises, live music, and memorable culinary experiences, Natchez offers travelers a rich blend of culture and hospitality. Lisa shares stories about the city’s Indigenous heritage, architectural treasures, and pivotal role in early American history, including visits to historic sites like Ellicott's Hill and nearby plantation properties that help tell the complex story of the region’s past. The episode also highlights local museums, Southern cuisine, and the charm of staying at historic inns like the Devereaux Shields House. Whether you're interested in heritage travel, Mississippi River culture, music history, or classic Southern hospitality, Natchez is a destination filled with unforgettable experiences—and a meaningful stop for travelers exploring America’s history ahead of the nation’s 250th birthday. READ LISA'S NATCHEZ TRAVEL ARTICLES: - Discover Beautiful Natchez, Mississippi:  https://playstayeat.com/2023/02/01/discover-beautiful-natchez-mississippi/ [https://playstayeat.com/2023/02/01/discover-beautiful-natchez-mississippi/]  - Natchez, MS Restaurants Guide: lhttps://www.foodieflashpacker.com/natchez-ms-restaurants/  - Natchez Mississippi: History, Antebellum Homes & Southern Hospitality: https://writerlisa.com/2025/10/03/natchez-mississippi-history-antebellum-homes-southern-hospitality/ [https://writerlisa.com/2025/10/03/natchez-mississippi-history-antebellum-homes-southern-hospitality/]  LISA EVANS is a travel writer and photographer, travel advisor, and author of "100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die."   More at: - https://writerlisa.com/ [https://writerlisa.com/]     - https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans [https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans]  - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travelsoothesthesoul [https://www.facebook.com/travelsoothesthesoul]  - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisae_travel [https://www.instagram.com/lisae_travel]  FOLLOW JOURNEY JUKEBOX 🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596]  📖 Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 6pm CST: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ [https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/]

Coastal Mississippi in Spring & Summer: Festivals, Seafood & Scenic Travel

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel podcast, travel writer Lisa Evans takes us to Coastal Mississippi, where spring and summer bring a vibrant mix of festivals, fresh seafood, and scenic coastal experiences. From exciting events like Cruisin’ the Coast and Jeepin’ the Coast, to the region’s deep-rooted maritime traditions, this episode showcases the culture, community, and charm of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A major highlight is the new Amtrak route connecting Mobile and New Orleans, offering travelers a relaxing and scenic way to explore the coast. Lisa also shares insights into the historic Blessing of the Fleet, the thriving seafood industry, and unique nature experiences like the Hummingbird Festival in Moss Point. Whether you're planning a festival-filled getaway, a culinary adventure, or a laid-back coastal escape, this episode highlights why Coastal Mississippi is a must-visit destination. FOLLOW JOURNEY JUKEBOX 🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596]  📖 Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1]  🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 6pm CST: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ [https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/]  📚 LISA EVANS TRAVEL RESOURCES: - Get Lisa's book, "101 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die": https://www.amazon.com/100-Things-Coastal-Mississippi-Before/dp/1681063824 [https://www.amazon.com/100-Things-Coastal-Mississippi-Before/dp/1681063824]  - Changes in Attitude Margaritaville at Sea Group Cruise: https://gosmart-group-trips.vercel.app/trip/changes-in-attitude [https://gosmart-group-trips.vercel.app/trip/changes-in-attitude]  🗺️ COASTAL MISSISSIPPI EVENTS & TRAVEL RESOURCES: - Jeepin the Coast: https://jeepinthecoast.com/ [https://jeepinthecoast.com/]  - Blessing of the Fleet: https://stmichaelchurchbiloxi.com/blessing-of-the-fleet [https://stmichaelchurchbiloxi.com/blessing-of-the-fleet]  - Mississippi Songwriters Festival: https://www.msafestival.org/ [https://www.msafestival.org/]  - Hummingbird Festival: https://www.audubon.org/delta/news/hummingbird-festival-coming-2026 [https://www.audubon.org/delta/news/hummingbird-festival-coming-2026]  - Cruisin the Coast: https://cruisinthecoast.com/ [https://cruisinthecoast.com/]  - Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival: https://peterandersonfestival.com/ [https://peterandersonfestival.com/]  - Ship Island Excursions: https://msshipisland.com/ [https://msshipisland.com/]  - OS1515 Downtown: https://os1515.com/ [https://os1515.com/]   - The Pass Bungalows: https://www.passbungalows.com/ [https://www.passbungalows.com/]  - Siren Social Club: https://www.sirensocial.com/about/ [https://www.sirensocial.com/about/]  Photos courtesy Lisa Evans & CoastalMississippi.com

Historic Detroit Mansions and the Women Behind Them

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" Podcast with travel writer Lisa Evans explores the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Detroit, spotlighting two extraordinary estates—Cranbrook Educational Community and Meadow Brook Hall. Celebrating Women’s History Month and looking ahead to America’s 250th birthday, this episode highlights the powerful legacy of Matilda Dodge Wilson, whose vision and philanthropy helped shape Meadow Brook Hall and left a lasting impact on the region. Beyond the mansions, the conversation dives into Detroit’s dynamic story—from the rise of the automotive industry to the global influence of Motown Records and modern creative voices like Jack White. Discover how innovation, artistry, and resilience intersect in this iconic American city. Whether you're planning a heritage trip, exploring architectural landmarks, or seeking destinations that honor the nation’s history, Detroit offers a compelling journey into America’s past, present, and future. Lisa's Detroit Articles * Cranbrook: A Place Made by Hand: https://fwtmagazine.com/cranbrook-a-place-made-by-hand/ [https://fwtmagazine.com/cranbrook-a-place-made-by-hand/]  * The Woman Behind the Walls of Meadow Brook Hall: https://fwtmagazine.com/the-woman-behind-the-walls-of-meadow-brook-hall/ [https://fwtmagazine.com/the-woman-behind-the-walls-of-meadow-brook-hall/]  Detroit Travel Resources * Cranbrook: https://www.cranbrook.edu/ [https://www.cranbrook.edu/]  * Meadow Brook Hall: https://meadowbrookhall.org/ [https://meadowbrookhall.org/]  * Detroit Institute of Arts: https://dia.org/ [https://dia.org/]  * The Henry Ford: https://www.thehenryford.org/ [https://www.thehenryford.org/]  🎵 Journey Jukebox Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596]  📖 NEW: Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1]

Journey Through St Augustine: A Must Visit for America’s 250th Birthday

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Journey Jukebox" travel writer Lisa Evans takes listeners to historic St. Augustine, Florida — the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States and a must-visit destination as America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday. From the iconic Castillo de San Marcos to the legendary Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, Lisa shares highlights from her immersive visit to this charming coastal city. Discover how the convenient Old Town Trolley Tours of St. Augustine makes exploring easy, why culinary tasting tours are a delicious way to experience local culture, and what makes the historic St. Francis Inn such a memorable place to stay. The conversation also explores St. Augustine’s layered Spanish, British, and Native American heritage, its vibrant arts scene, and why history lovers will find endless stories around every corner. Whether you're planning a heritage getaway, a food-focused trip, or looking ahead to America’s Semi-quincentennial celebrations, St. Augustine offers an unforgettable blend of history, hospitality, and coastal charm. LISA'S ST. AUGUSTINE ARTICLES - Rovology.com: https://rovology.com/united-states/a-history-lovers-guide-to-visiting-st-augustine-fl/ [https://rovology.com/united-states/a-history-lovers-guide-to-visiting-st-augustine-fl/]  - Wander with Wonder: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/things-to-do-in-st-augustine-fl/ [https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/things-to-do-in-st-augustine-fl/]  - She Buys Travel: https://shebuystravel.com/st-francis-inn-bed-and-breakfast-st-augustine-fl/ [https://shebuystravel.com/st-francis-inn-bed-and-breakfast-st-augustine-fl/]  MAGAZINE, SUBSTACK & MUSIC PLAYLIST * NEW: Journey Jukebox Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1 [https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/JOURNEY-JUKEBOX---2026/#p=1]  * Subscribe to Journey Jukebox on Big Blend Media's Substack: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/ [https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/]  * Music Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596 [https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=71c11c52c77c4596]  📅 New episodes air every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ [https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/]