In an age where scrolling often replaces genuine conversation, is it time to rebuild real-life connection? On Big Blend Radio's Quality of Life show, we welcome Dr. Kathleen P. Allen, author of “Stuck in Our Screens: Setting Aside Social Drama and Restoring Human Connection.”

Dr. Allen shares powerful, research-based insights on how social media and constant digital distractions are disrupting empathy, communication, and relationships for both teens and adults. She uniquely blends humor with serious reflection, exploring how adult online behavior can surprisingly mirror adolescent drama.

In this episode, you'll learn: - The profound emotional impact of continuous screen time. - Why social media often amplifies social drama across all age groups. - Actionable steps to cultivate empathy and emotional intelligence. - Strategies to consciously reclaim meaningful, face-to-face connections. - How to achieve a healthy balance between your digital and real lives.

Drawing from her background as a researcher, educator, and program evaluator, Dr. Allen provides practical ways to break free from toxic online dynamics and foster healthier human interactions.

Tune in to gain valuable insights for navigating our digital world and strengthening your relationships!

Find the book: “Stuck in Our Screens” is available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stuck-Our-Screens-Restoring-Connection-ebook/dp/B0F2J3TXJQ

About the Author: Kathleen P. Allen, Ed.D., brings years of experience from her work with the Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention. She is a lifelong educator and "Stuck in Our Screens" is her debut book.

Feeling stressed and guilty about taking time off? You're not alone! In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Soul Diving Sunday Show, transformational life coach Shelley Whizin offers a refreshing perspective, reframing time off as a sacred act of self-compassion.

Shelley dives into the impacts of overscheduling and the often-overlooked value of spontaneity, revealing the crucial connection between our health and taking a break. She also highlights the profound healing qualities of being out in nature and taking a vacation, emphasizing their role in our well-being. She tackles the common struggle of saying no, the time-consuming nature of social media, and the urgent need to re-evaluate work-life balance.

Discover the power of mindfulness, how to choose joy over guilt, and the "filters" we apply to our lives. Ultimately, Shelley empowers listeners to set boundaries for well-being and rediscover joy.

Key Takeaways: - Taking time off is essential for mental health. - Self-compassion is a sacred act. - Time in nature and vacations offer profound healing. - Choose joy over duty to enhance well-being. - Mindfulness helps manage stress effectively. - Prioritize your own happiness.

Resources: - Read Shelley’s article “Taking Time Off is a Sacred Act of Self-Compassion”: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/taking-time-off-is-a-sacred-act-of-self-compassion/

- 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://soul-diving-sunday-shelley.podbean.com/

This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Quality of Life,” “Vacation Station,” and “Parks & Travel” channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

In honor of National Family Reunion Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show highlights why Frisco, Texas is a must-visit destination for families of all ages. Travel writer Terri Guthrie shares her recent adventures in this vibrant city near Dallas, known for transforming from a small railroad town into a nationally recognized hub of attractions and experiences.

From interactive learning at KidZania and the Frisco Public Library to thrilling visits to the National Soccer Hall of Fame, The Star District, Omni PGA Frisco Resort, and the Historic Rail District—Terri covers it all. Plus, hear about top places to stay and shop, like the Hyatt Regency and Stonebriar Centre Mall.

📖 Read Terri’s article for a deeper dive into her Frisco favorites: 👉 https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/family-fun-in-frisco-texas/

🌟 Plan your trip: https://www.visitfrisco.com/

🎙️ “Travel with Terri” now airs weekly! Tune in every Tuesday at 9 AM CT: 👉 https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/

🎧 Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station, Big Daily Blend, and Quality of Life podcast channels. 👉 https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork