Episodes
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Can independent contractors legally earn commissions in California? The answer is more complicated than you might think.
In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "California Employment Law" Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs explores the intersection of California commission laws and independent contractor classification under AB5. The discussion examines who can legally receive commissions, the distinctions between employees and independent contractors, and why written commission agreements are essential for protecting both workers and businesses.
Ward explains how California law treats commission-based compensation, the legal protections available to commissioned employees, and why certain professions—including attorneys, brokers, and some exempt workers—may operate differently under the law. The conversation also covers outside salespersons, expense reimbursement, multi-state employment considerations, and how AB5 continues to shape California's workforce.
Whether you're an employer, salesperson, business owner, or independent contractor, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating California's evolving employment landscape.
📖 Read Ward's article:https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/independent-contractors-commission
🌐 Learn more about Ward Heinrichs: https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/
🔗 Connect with Ward on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ward-heinrichs/
📘 Explore the California Employment Law Digital Podcast Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-employment-law-magazine
🎧 Listen to more California Employment Law Podcast episodes: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-employment-law-with-ward-heinrichs
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In this thought-provoking (and shared) episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) examines one of the most common—and potentially problematic—workplace metaphors: the idea that coworkers are "family."
While the concept is often intended to foster connection and belonging, Rita explains how the family metaphor can blur boundaries, create unrealistic expectations, and introduce unhealthy power dynamics into the workplace. Unlike families, work relationships are professional, with defined roles, responsibilities, and accountability structures.
This conversation explores how language shapes organizational culture and why leaders should be intentional about the metaphors they use. Rita discusses the difference between chosen and assigned family, the risks of parental and child roles in supervision, and how these dynamics can undermine trust, transparency, and effective communication.
Rather than viewing organizations as families, Rita encourages leaders to think in terms of teams—whether a sports team, jazz ensemble, or another collaborative model. By fostering transparency, ownership, and shared purpose, organizations can create healthier cultures where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best work.
📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Supervision Matters Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Supervision-Matters-Magazine-2026/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/
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Milwaukee is having a moment — and the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) is heading there for their 2026 Professional Development Conference, October 18–21!
Big Blend Radio host Lisa D. Smith sits down with three IFWTWA board members to give you the inside scoop on everything that awaits at this year's conference.
GUESTS:- Cori Solomon — IFWTWA President & Conference Co-Chair: https://www.writtenpalette.com - Susan Lanier-Graham — Press Trips Committee Chair & Conference Co-Chair: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com - Andrew Harris — Culinary Advisor & Conference Co-Chair: https://socalrestaurantshow.com
CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS:- Exclusive private dinner at High Stakes — Chef Paul Bartolotta's brand-new restaurant, opened just for conference attendees- Cheese workshops, Bloody Mary demos & opening reception at Milwaukee Public Market- Professional development panels — Inside the Industry, Media Kits That Work, No Stupid Questions & more- Milwaukee Day — art museum, Harley-Davidson Museum, brewing history, Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, African American history tour, spy bar lunch & more- Closing reception at the historic Women's Club of Wisconsin- Pre & post trips: Shipshewana, Indiana & New Glarus, Wisconsin and more.
Open to all IFWTWA members and non-members, the Conference will be hosted at the non-smoking Pottawatomi Hotel & Casino. Day passes available for local Milwaukee writers!
LEARN MORE & REGISTER: https://www.ifwtwa.org/2026-ifwtwa-conference/
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Celebrate National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month with this special "Success Express" episode of Big Blend Radio featuring longtime Big Blend friend Robert Schueller, Director of Public Relations and Produce Expert for Melissa's Produce.
Known nationally as "The Produce Dude," Robert has spent nearly three decades helping consumers discover fresh fruits and vegetables, understand seasonal produce, and explore healthier ways to eat. In this fun and inspiring conversation, Robert answers Big Blend's signature Success Insider questions, sharing stories about his career journey, family, favorite hobbies, life lessons, travel dreams, and the passion that has fueled his success.
Along the way, listeners learn about the remarkable story behind Melissa's Produce, America's largest distributor of specialty produce, and how the company continues to introduce consumers to exciting fruits, vegetables, and healthy food innovations from around the world.
LINKS & RESOURCES- Learn more about Melissa's Produce at https://www.melissas.com
- Read Robert's Success Insider Q&A: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/success-insider-melissas-produce-expert-robert-schueller
- Discover more expert interviews, podcasts, articles, and stories at:https://bigblendmediahouse.com
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In this special "Getting to Know You" episode of Big Blend Radio, we celebrate National Creativity Day and reconnect with longtime Big Blend friend, travel writer, author, and storyteller Elaine Masters as part of the launch of our new online community, Big Blend Media House, and its Front Porch News newsletter.
A longtime Big Blend contributor and friend, Elaine is known for her thoughtful travel writing, cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and love of water adventures. Hear about her experiences diving with manta rays, exploring destinations around the world, contributing to a National Geographic travel book, and working on her upcoming spiritual travel memoir, "Where Wonder Leads."
Along the way, Elaine discusses the importance of cultural respect, trusting your intuition, embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, sustainable living practices, the value of independent media, and how travel, nature, and storytelling can enrich our lives.
LEARN MORE:• Visit: https://www.tripwellgal.com/ • Insider Q&A: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/elaine-masters-travel-writer-success-insider • Check Out: https://bigblendmediahouse.com
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In this special “Getting to Know You” episode of Big Blend Radio, we chat with award-winning author, editor, traveler, and former international lawyer Clifford Garstang about his fascinating journey from international development and law to a celebrated literary career.
A longtime guest on Big Blend Radio, Clifford has joined us over the years to discuss his books, literature, writing life, and international travels. In this engaging conversation, he reflects on perseverance, artistic integrity, storytelling, nature, travel experiences, and the creative process behind writing fiction.
Clifford is the author of six works of fiction including "The Last Bird of Paradise," "Oliver’s Travels," "The Shaman of Turtle Valley," "House of the Ancients and Other Stories," "What the Zhang Boys Know," and In an "Uncharted Country." He is also editor of the acclaimed anthology series "Everywhere Stories: Short Fiction from a Small Planet."
Learn more about Clifford Garstang and subscribe to his Substack:- https://cliffordgarstang.com/ - https://cliffordgarstang.substack.com/
This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s “Getting to Know You” series celebrating the launch of Big Blend Media House and its new newsletter, Front Porch News. Visit: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/
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In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "California Employment Law" Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs explains how California commission laws impact both employers and employees, including the legal differences between inside and outside sales roles, minimum wage protections, overtime exemptions, independent contractor concerns, and why written commission agreements are essential.
The conversation explores how commission structures work in real-world sales environments, from retail and automotive sales to remote work and field sales positions. Ward also discusses California’s legal requirements for commission contracts, what happens when commissions are delayed or disputed, and why vague language in agreements can lead to costly litigation.
Whether you’re a business owner creating compensation plans or a salesperson reviewing a commission agreement, this episode offers valuable insight into protecting your rights and understanding California employment law.
📖 Read Ward’s article: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-sales-commission-laws-2026
Explore Ward’s Digital Magazine: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-employment-law-magazine
Connect with Ward Heinrichs:- https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ward-heinrichs/
🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/california-employment-law-with-ward-heinrichs
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In this insightful shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) explores the critical role supervision plays in employee engagement, retention, and organizational success.
Rita explains why effective supervision is rooted in partnership, trust, and support—not micromanagement—and how supervisors have a direct impact on workplace satisfaction, morale, and burnout prevention. This conversation highlights how recognition, transparency, and relationship-building can strengthen teams, improve retention, and create healthier workplace cultures.
🎙️ Key Takeaways:• Supervision is about partnership, not micromanagement.• Effective supervision reduces turnover and burnout.• Trust and recognition are essential for employee engagement.• Supportive supervisors can transform workplace culture.• Strong relationships improve communication and morale.• Transparency helps build healthier work environments.• Burnout prevention starts with supportive leadership.• Employee satisfaction is closely tied to supervision quality.• Innovative support practices can boost morale and retention.• Leadership directly impacts organizational success.
Resources & Links:🔹 Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Supervision Matters Digital Podcast Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Supervision-Matters-Magazine-2026/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/
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This episode of Big Blend Radio spotlights "Big Daily Blend" cohost and award-winning singer-songwriter Johnny Schaefer @hearjohnny based in Southern California, in a special “Getting to Know You” conversation.
In this inspiring and personal interview, Johnny shares his musical journey, creative influences, and the deeper purpose behind his songwriting. From emotional storytelling to the power of connection, he reflects on how music can heal, uplift, and bring people together in meaningful ways.
The conversation dives into authenticity in performance, navigating the music industry, and the importance of staying true to your voice as an artist. Along the way, Johnny opens up about his inspirations, life lessons, creative process, and even a few fun personal insights—making this episode both heartfelt and engaging.
Read Johnny’s “Music Insider” Editorial Q&A: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/getting-to-know-johnny-schaefer Listen to Johnny on Big Blend Radio: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/meet-the-experts-johnny-schaefer Keep up with Johnny: https://hearjohnny.com/ Join Johnny’s Gratitude Club (Facebook Group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/gratefulones
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Get to know the heart behind The Peanut Patch in this special and shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “The Peanut Patch” Podcast featuring Donna George, owner of the beloved family-run store in Yuma, Arizona.
Through seven fun and insightful questions, Donna shares her personal journey in running a small business, her passion for food and community, and her adventures traveling to all 50 states. From her loyal “chicken” spirit animal to her dream of flying in a hot air balloon, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the personality and inspiration behind The Peanut Patch.
Along the way, discover helpful tips on roasting peanuts, making fresh homemade peanut butter, and incorporating peanuts and locally grown Medjool dates into everyday recipes. Donna also talks about taking a leap of faith in business, the importance of supporting small businesses, and how food brings people together.
Plus, learn more about the exciting new Big Blend Media House—a virtual, interactive space celebrating food, travel, lifestyle, and community. Visit: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/
Whether you’re a foodie, traveler, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with inspiration, humor, and heart.
🛒 Shop year-round: https://thepeanutpatch.com/
🍽️ Recipes From The Peanut Patch Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Recipes-from-The-Peanut-Patch/
🎧 Listen & follow the podcast (new episodes every 1st Friday): https://peanut-patch.podbean.com/
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Managing employees across state lines comes with complex legal challenges — and getting it wrong can be costly.
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "California Employment Law" Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs explains how multi-state employment laws impact wages, overtime, and compliance for businesses operating across borders. From remote work arrangements to industries like agriculture and hospitality, Ward breaks down how employee location determines which state laws apply, and why California’s unique wage and hour rules can significantly affect employers.
The conversation highlights key risks tied to cross-border employment, jurisdictional differences, and business expansion, along with practical insights on documentation, compliance strategies, and when to seek legal guidance. Whether your employees work remotely, travel between states, or operate in multiple locations, this episode offers essential guidance for navigating today’s evolving employment landscape.
📖 Read Ward’s article: https://bigblendmedia.substack.com/p/navigating-multi-state-employment
📘 Explore Ward’s California Employment Law Digital Podcast Magazine:https://www.employment-law-office-of-ward-heinrichs-apc.com/articles
🌐 Connect with Ward Heinrichs:https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ward-heinrichs/
🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/
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In this shared and uplifting episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) explores the power of play in the workplace—and why it’s more than just fun.
Drawing from her master’s thesis research on the impact of play on workplace community, as well as her experience as a supervisor and HR director, Rita shares how simple, intentional moments of play can strengthen relationships, reduce stress, and spark creativity. From icebreakers to everyday interactions, she explains how play helps build trust, improve communication, and create more engaged, energized teams.
Resources & Links:🔹 Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Supervision Matters Digital Podcast Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Supervision-Matters-Magazine-2026/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/ 🔹 Explore more business & career podcasts on Big Blend Radio Network:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork
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Big Blend Radio’s “Jo Goes Everywhere!” travel podcast with writer Jo Clark celebrates its 2-year anniversary with a special behind-the-scenes conversation exploring Jo’s journey as a travel writer, storyteller, and creator of the new "Jo Goes Everywhere!" Digital Podcast Magazine.
From global adventures spanning Louisiana to Namibia, to experimenting with sangria recipes and discovering local flavors, Jo shares her passion for travel, food, wine, and cultural exploration. She also reflects on Big Blend Radio’s 10 Travel Writer Insider Questions, offering insight into her creative process, travel philosophy, and the importance of curiosity, research, and authentic storytelling.
The conversation dives into responsible tourism, the role of personal experience in travel writing, and how digital platforms are shaping the future of storytelling. Along the way, Jo shares tips for aspiring travel writers, the value of connecting with local communities, and why every journey—near or far—adds depth to both palate and perspective.
📖 Check out Jo's New "JO GOES EVERYWHERE!" Digital Magazine featuring her Travel Writer Insider Q&A, Sangria Recipe, and 2-year Podcast Retrospective: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/kkbr/
📲 Follow Jo:https://haveglasswilltravel.com/ https://recipestravelculture.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JoGoesEverywhere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaveGlassWillTravel/
🎧 New episodes air every 2nd Sunday. Listen:https://jogoeseverywhere.podbean.com/
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Hiring employees in California is becoming more complex in 2026, with new laws impacting everything from job postings to AI-driven hiring tools.
In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s "California Employment Law" Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs breaks down what employers need to know about pay transparency requirements, AI discrimination risks in hiring, and new rules governing signing bonus repayment, along with key wage considerations tied to job offers.
From updated minimum wage laws for fast food and healthcare workers to stricter requirements around accurate wage ranges in job postings, this conversation highlights how hiring practices must evolve to stay compliant. Ward also explains how the use of artificial intelligence in hiring can expose employers to discrimination claims if not carefully monitored, and what businesses should do to protect themselves.
Whether you’re an employer, HR professional, or job seeker, this episode offers essential insights into navigating California’s changing hiring landscape in 2026.
📖 Read Ward’s article: https://successexpress.substack.com/p/hiring-in-california-2026
🌐 Connect with Ward Heinrichs:https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ward-heinrichs/
📘 Explore Ward’s Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/CALIFORNIA-EMPLOYMENT-LAW/#p=1
🎧 Listen to more episodes:https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/
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In this insightful shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) dives into the complex and often misunderstood role of Human Resources.
HR professionals walk a delicate line—balancing trust, fairness, legal compliance, and organizational priorities. Rita discusses the challenges of “doing HR,” from handling difficult conversations and workplace conflicts to maintaining neutrality and holding leadership accountable. She also explores the critical question: Is HR seen as policing employees—or supporting them?
This conversation highlights why trust is the true currency of HR and how strong HR practices create safer, more engaged, and more successful workplaces.
📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/ 🔹 Supervision Matters Digital Podcast Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Supervision-Matters-Magazine-2026/ 🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/ 🔹 Explore more business & career podcasts on Big Blend Radio Network:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork
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This episode of Big Blend Radio features Randy E. Barnett, a renowned constitutional law professor at Georgetown University Law Center and author of the new book Felony Review: Tales of True Crime and Corruption.
Drawing from his early career as a prosecutor in Chicago, Barnett shares gripping firsthand stories of murder investigations, courtroom strategy, police confessions, and the ethical dilemmas faced by prosecutors working during a time of widespread crime and corruption. The book also explores Operation Greylord, one of the largest corruption investigations in U.S. history.
Perfect for true crime fans, aspiring lawyers, and anyone curious about how the criminal justice system really works, Barnett offers a candid behind-the-scenes look at big-city justice, the psychology of criminal behavior, and the importance of integrity in the legal profession.
📘 Felony Review: Tales of True Crime and Corruption releases March 17, 2026.
🔗 Learn more about Randy Barnett:https://www.randybarnett.com/
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California’s healthcare minimum wage landscape is changing in 2026 — and employers need to be ready.
In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio’s “California Employment Law” Podcast, San Diego employment attorney Ward Heinrichs breaks down California’s new minimum wage requirements for healthcare workers, explaining who is covered, key compliance deadlines, and what healthcare employers, staffing agencies, and HR professionals must do now to avoid costly penalties.
Ward discusses the complexities of the law, why it’s being called “a bear,” and how organizations can proactively prepare for the phased wage increases.
📖 Read Ward’s article: "California Healthcare Minimum Wage: It’s a Bear!" on Substack: https://successexpress.substack.com/p/california-healthcare-minimum-wage 📘 Explore Ward’s new "California Employment Law" Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/CALIFORNIA-EMPLOYMENT-LAW/
👨⚖️Connect with Ward Heinrichs at https://bestemploymentattorneysandiego.com/
🎧 Subscribe to Big Blend Radio's "California Employment Law" Podcast: https://ward-heinrichs-employment-law.podbean.com/
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On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks with Joey Stuckey," Joey shares key insights from his recent experiences at industry events including the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Show and The Recording Academy’s Grammy Week. The conversation explores how artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming music creation, performance, and accessibility.
Joey discusses the growing role of AI in the music industry, from tools that support musicians with disabilities to emerging concerns around copyright, ownership, safety, and environmental impact. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in AI training data, protecting digital identity, and balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.
This forward-looking episode offers valuable perspective for musicians, creators, and music lovers navigating the evolving intersection of technology and artistry.
🎸 About Joey StuckeyJoey Stuckey is Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador, an award-winning blind guitarist, producer, and owner of Shadow Sound Studio. He is a passionate advocate for accessibility and innovation in music. Learn more: https://www.joeystuckey.com/
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In this shared Leadership Day episode of Big Blend Radio’s SUPERVISION MATTERS Podcast, organizational coach and author Rita Sever (Supervision Matters & Leading for Justice) shares practical, sustainable self-care strategies for leaders, supervisors, employers, and employees alike.
In today’s demanding work environments, self-care isn’t optional—it’s essential. Rita discusses how daily routines, supportive systems, healthy boundaries, and positive self-talk can reduce stress, strengthen resilience, and improve workplace culture. She also explains how leaders who model healthy habits create more productive, engaged, and balanced teams.
In recognition of National Leadership Day, this conversation is a timely reminder that modeling healthy habits is part of great leadership.
📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Rita Sever: https://supervisionmatters.com/
🔹 NEW! Supervision Matters Digital Podcast Magazine:https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/Supervision-Matters-Magazine-2026/
🔹 Listen to all SUPERVISION MATTERS episodes: https://supervisionmatters.podbean.com/
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In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), we go behind the scenes of the global organization that connects and supports professional storytellers in the food, wine, and travel industries.
Hear from IFWTWA leadership about how the association empowers writers through networking, professional development webinars, press trips, contests, and its annual conference. Discover how storytelling fosters authentic travel experiences, how social media and branding elevate visibility, and why human connection remains at the heart of impactful travel journalism.
With more than 240 members worldwide, IFWTWA continues to grow as a vibrant community for writers, photographers, bloggers, and destinations seeking meaningful collaboration.
👥 Featured IFWTWA Leaders* Cori Solomon – President & Membership Chair; Conference Co-Chair:https://www.writtenpalette.com/ * Susan Lanier-Graham – Press Trips Committee Chair & Conference Co-Chair: https://www.wanderwithwonder.com/ * Robin O’Neal Smith – Treasurer & 2025 Conference Co-Chair (Contests):https://RobinONealSmith.com * Andrew Harris – 2nd Vice President & Culinary Advisor; 2026 Conference Co-Chair: https://socalrestaurantshow.com * Kathryn (Kat) Anderson – Social Media Committee Chair: https://coffeeandmascara.org * Amy Piper – Editor-in-Chief of IFWTWA's "Food, Wine, Travel" Magazine: https://FollowthePiper.com * Judi Cohen (Traveling Judi) – Secretary, Professional Development Webinars: https://www.travelingjudi.com * Pam Baker – Marketing Committee Chair: https://PamandGaryBaker.com
🌐 Learn more about IFWTWA: https://www.ifwtwa.org/ 📰 Check out Food, Wine, Travel Magazine: https://fwtmagazine.com/ 🎧 Follow Big Blend Radio’s Food, Wine & Travel Podcast: https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com/ 📰 Check out the new Big Blend Radio “Travel Food & Wine” Digital Podcast Magazine: https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhwzg/ekxy/#p=1
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