When it comes to exploring the world by rail or sea, travel writer and lecturer David E. Kriso knows how to turn a journey into a story worth telling. Whether discussing Amtrak’s iconic passenger routes, cruise ship adventures, or the sheer joy of hands-on model railroading, David brings a passion for travel that feeds curiosity at every turn.
In this lively episode of Big Blend Radio, host Lisa D. Smith catches up with David to discuss his latest writing projects, personal travel experiences, and insights into what keeps his passion for storytelling moving forward.
Listen to David E. Kriso’s “Getting to Know You” Big Blend Radio Podcast episode below:
Highlights from the Conversation
From Local News to Major Outlets: David shares how his travel writing journey took off with a story for his hometown paper, The Observer, highlighting Amtrak’s Student Advantage program. Since then, his work has expanded into major publications, including feature reporting on Amtrak's Silver Meteor route for Trains Magazine.
A Family Tradition in Railroading: Beyond full-scale trains, David talks about his deep family connection to model railroading—specifically LGB (Lehmann Gross Bahn) large-scale setups—and how setting up a massive 1,000-square-foot layout every holiday season exercises both the mind and geometry skills.
Washington, D.C. & Botanical Discoveries: David recounts his recent trip to the nation's capital, where he attended the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade and explored the U.S. Botanic Garden’s exhibit on America’s State Flowers.
The Big Blend "Seven Questions" Round
Spirit Animal: The Lion—reserved and magnificent, but not to be messed with!
Personal Passion: Singing! David takes voice lessons and works on classic tunes like Jimmy Buffett’s “Breathe In, Breathe Out, Move On.”
Life Lesson for the Next Generation: "Failure leads to success." David shared how attending the SuperCamp program at age 17 instilled core values like ownership, integrity, and learning from mistakes.
Bucket List Destination: Visiting Disneyland Paris or Disneyland Tokyo.
TV Show Theme Song: “Back in America” by Network (featured in National Lampoon’s European Vacation).
Food Pass / Food Favorite:
Pass: French onion soup (the bubbling top is a definite no!).
Favorite: Charcuterie, shrimp, fresh fruit/veggie platters, and coal-fired pizza crust.
Big Blend Media House Addition: A full-service restaurant layout offering incredible steaks, pasta, salad, sandwiches, and a coal-fired pizza oven to bring everyone around the table.
Connect & Follow David's Journey
Keep up with David’s travel reporting, upcoming lectures, and stories as he explores Washington D.C., Miami, and beyond:
👉 Visit his website: https://dektraveljournal.com/