Texas Tales: Recent Episodes
Fun, lively, mostly accurate history of Texas
A fun, lively, mostly accurate discovery of obvious and obscure Texas history. This is a re-discovery of the people, places and events that shaped our great state. Join us in sitting around doing what we like to do most.. unwrapping and unraveling the tales of Texas. These easily consumable sessions are good for your daily commute, while out on a walk, sitting around the house or to binge on a road trip. However you like to listen, please do!
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We have come a long way in our production quality since we started. We did our best to REMASTER some “oldies but goodies” and ensure the production offers a better listening experience. Not perfect, but much better. Hope you enjoy!Step into the wild, wicked world of Hell’s Half Acre in Fort Worth, where the legends are as large as the Longhorns that once roamed its streets. We're peeling back the layers of history to reveal the raw, raucous reality of this notorious district, from its heyday on the cattle trails to its modern-day mythos.
This episode is a rollercoaster ride through time, where we'll explore the saloons that never slept, the gambling dens that never closed, and the characters that made this place both infamous and unforgettable.
Discover how this slice of Texas was not just a place of vice but a vibrant, if violent, community where dreams were made and broken in equal measure. We'll separate the romanticized lore from the gritty truth, showing you the underbelly of Fort Worth's past that's as fascinating as it is dark.
So, saddle up for an audio adventure that's part history lesson, part ghost story, and all entertainment. Whether you're a local or just love a good tale of the Wild West, this episode promises to be a wild ride through one of Texas's most notorious neighborhoods. Available now, so don't miss your chance to step into Hell’s Half Acre!
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Join us for an engaging dive into the post-Civil War era when Texas became the land of new beginnings. Discover the stories of adventure, opportunity, and transformation as we explore why countless Americans packed up and headed south to the Lone Star State.
We'll journey through the economic boom spurred by the Homestead Act and the expansion of railroads, witness the cultural melting pot that emerged as diverse groups settled in, and hear tales of resilience from those who traded their old lives for the promise of Texas.
From former soldiers to newly freed men and women, learn how these migrations not only changed the landscape but also set the stage for Texas's vibrant future. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about how history shapes identity and opportunity. So, grab your headphones and join us for an episode that'll make you appreciate the rich tapestry of our state's history even more!
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We have come a long way in our production quality since we started. We did our best to REMASTER some “oldies but goodies” and ensure the production offers a better listening experience. Not perfect, but much better. Hope you enjoy!
In the 1800s, a Texas innkeeper lured weary cattle drovers to his inn along the Opelousas Trail—a rest stop that became their final destination. After selling their cattle in New Orleans, drovers would return to the inn with pockets full of cash, only to be met with betrayal and murder. With his family’s help, this villain robbed his victims of their lives, money, and belongings, leaving a trail of horror in his wake. But no one escapes justice forever—especially not in Texas. Join us as we unravel this shocking true tale of greed, bloodshed, and retribution in the Old West.
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Ready for a wild ride through Texas history? Join us as we unravel the incredible story of Green DeWitt—a man with big dreams, bold moves, and a knack for navigating the chaos of early Texas. From his journey across states to his alliances with legends like Moses Austin, Stephen F. Austin, and Baron de Bastrop, we dive into the drama, determination, and downright grit it took to build his colony. You'll hear about his triumphs, struggles, and the larger-than-life events shaping Texas at the time. History has never been this fascinating—don’t miss out!
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We have come a long way in our production quality since we started. We did our best to REMASTER some “oldies but goodies” and ensure the production offers a better listening experience. Not perfect, but much better. Hope you enjoy!
Step into the wild and fascinating history of the Chicken Ranch, the infamous Texas establishment that served as more than just a brothel—it became a cultural icon. From its humble beginnings during the Great Depression to its heyday as a "community service" institution, and ultimately its dramatic fall at the hands of a crusading TV reporter, this episode dives deep into the stories that made the Chicken Ranch legendary.
We’ll explore the quirky cast of characters, the unwritten rules that kept it running for decades, and the surprising ways it became a fixture of small-town Texas life. Along the way, we share some laugh-out-loud anecdotes and nod to the Hollywood version of the tale in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of Texas lore, or just looking for a good laugh, this episode is a cheeky and compelling ride through one of Texas’ most scandalously beloved legends.
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Journey back tens of thousands of years to uncover the untold story of prehistoric Texas—a land teeming with mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and ancient humans thriving amidst the Ice Age. In this episode, we dive into the groundbreaking archaeological discoveries that challenge what we thought we knew about human history. From the tools at Buttermilk Creek to the haunting White Sands footprints and the global myths of catastrophic floods, this podcast weaves science, history, and legend to reveal Texas’s deep and fascinating past. Whether you’re intrigued by ancient mysteries, captivated by cultural myths, or curious about the first peoples of North America, this episode will take you on a thrilling journey to the origins of humanity in the Lone Star State.
Discover how ancient Texans survived, thrived, and left their mark on history—don’t miss this compelling dive into the echoes of Texas’s forgotten worlds!
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We have come a long way in our production quality since we started. We did our best to REMASTER some “oldies but goodies” and ensure the production offers a better listening experience. Not perfect, but much better. Hope you enjoy!
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating and tumultuous tale of Jean Lafitte, the infamous pirate who once ruled Galveston Island, and his dramatic interactions with the indigenous Karankawa people. Set against the backdrop of early 19th-century Texas, we explore Lafitte’s rise as a privateer, his lawless empire on the Gulf Coast, and the clash of cultures and survival that shaped Galveston’s history.
How did Lafitte’s ambitions intertwine with the Karankawa, a resilient and often misunderstood coastal tribe? Were they allies, adversaries, or something in between? Through compelling storytelling and historical analysis, we uncover the truths and legends behind their complex relationship.
Join us as we unravel this chapter of Texas history, filled with intrigue, betrayal, and the enduring legacy of those who walked Galveston’s shores long before it became the city we know today. Perfect for history buffs and curious minds alike!
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Saddle up for a journey into one of Texas' most chilling legends! In this episode, we uncover the spine-tingling tale of El Muerto, the infamous Headless Horseman of South Texas. From his violent origins as a cattle rustler to his eerie transformation into a ghostly rider haunting the borderlands, this story weaves together history, folklore, and the wild spirit of the Lone Star State.
Discover how justice, revenge, and mystery forged a legend that still sends shivers down spines today. Is it just a tall tale, or could El Muerto still be riding under the moonlit skies? Tune in to explore the truth behind the myth and why this story has endured for generations.
If you love ghost stories, Texas history, or the untamed lore of the Old West, you won’t want to miss this!
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Step into the heart of Texas’ role in space exploration with this captivating episode! Discover how Houston became “Space City” during NASA’s Apollo program, where iconic missions like the moon landing and Apollo 13 unfolded. Then, journey to the cutting-edge innovation of SpaceX at Boca Chica, where reusable rockets and the Starlink satellite network are reshaping the future. Packed with fascinating stories of legendary astronauts, groundbreaking rockets, and Texas-sized ambition, this episode bridges the past and future of humanity’s greatest frontier.
Why listen? Because the story of space exploration is the story of Texas—and it’s one you don’t want to miss.
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In this episode of our Texas history podcast, we dive into the fascinating story of Buc-ee's, the beloved roadside mega-stop that has captured the hearts of Texans and travelers alike. Discover how a small convenience store grew into a Lone Star legend, known for its spotless bathrooms, iconic beaver mascot, and world-famous brisket. We explore its history, its ambitious expansion beyond Texas, and the unique ways it embodies Texas pride. Packed with fun facts, surprising anecdotes, and a whole lot of beaver nuggets, this is one episode you won’t want to miss!
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Who were the Karankawa? Feared warriors, misunderstood coastal nomads, or victims of slanderous folklore? In this episode, inspired by Texas Monthly’s powerful article “We No Longer Have to Live in Secret” by Stephen Harrigan, we dive into the rich and turbulent history of the Karankawa people. From their seasonal migrations along the Texas Gulf Coast to violent encounters with Spanish colonists and Anglo settlers, their story is one of resilience, betrayal, and survival.
We’ll explore the truth behind the cannibal myths, the devastating Skull Creek Massacre, and the tribe’s ultimate displacement. But their story doesn’t end there. Today, descendants are reclaiming their heritage and ensuring the Karankawa’s legacy is remembered in the 21st century. Join us as we separate fact from fiction and uncover the extraordinary tale of a people who refuse to be forgotten.
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Want to keep away ghosts or witches? Ever wonder about gravesite etiquette or ensure you have a bountiful crop? Well...we did. In this episode, we cover a wide range of popular Texas superstitions just in time for Halloween. Grab yourself a drink, get dressed up in your Halloween costume and get ready for a very informative and fairly funny episode of your state's most spooky superstitions.
In this episode we discuss the area of I-45 just south of Houston, heading towards Galveston. Over the years, many women and girls have gone missing along this thoroughfare and many have been found murdered. So many in fact, that this stretch of highway has been referred to by the police, FBI and locals as "The Killing Fields". This Texas Tale highlights four of the victims that presumably have nothing in common, except their final resting place.
Its the season! Spoooky season. Are you ready to scare yourself silly? Go check out the Emily Morgan Hotel in San Antonio. An early 1900's hospital, psych ward and morgue turned into a fancy hotel. If you can't find a ghost there, not sure where you will. In this episode, learn about the history, the namesake and the current day hauntings. Hope you enjoy!
Long before there was the Chisolm or Goodnight Loving Trails, there was the Opelousas trail. Used by Native Americans, the Spanish, Mexicans, Texans and yes...cattle. Driving herds to New Orleans was not for the faint of heart, but for those that did it well, it seriously paid off. We hope you enjoy listening the our tale about the original Texas cattle drive.
When European wines are under attack by a harmful little pest, who do they turn to save their butts? That's right....TV Munson from Dennison, Texas. What an interesting tale about how the Texas vines were the perfect solution for a European problem. We hope you grab your favorite glass of wine, sit back and enjoy listening to how the European wine industry has us to thank for their great wines.
Five opportunities to strike it rich! We are trying to ensure that listening to our episode pays off for someone. In this episode we countdown the five most famous buried treasures in Texas. We hope that at the end of this episode you grab your shovel and start digging for treasure...and when you strike it rich, maybe you'll find it in your heart to share just a little.
What if instead of horses and donkeys, camels were the animals that helped settle the west? This very well could have been our reality. On this episode we explore why horses rather than camels, but determine... maybe we chose wrong?!? Grab yourself and drink, sit back and enjoy this episode. Who knows...maybe you will learn something new.
Battle so nice, they decided to have it twice. 29 buffalo hunters and traders against 700 plains Indians. This battle has incredible significance for both sides. It is the beginning of the end for the Comanches and other tribes and opens up Texas and the west to settlers once and for all. Hope you enjoy this one!
What would you do if you were out numbered ten to one by the fiercest fighting Native American tribes. We don't know either, but it probably would not be pretty. In this episode we discuss the largest battle in plains history. We hope you enjoy this episode. Its a doozie.
The Hoodoo war, also referred to as the Mason County war, lasted decades. It was the longest running feud in Texas history. It is a prime example of how one or two conflicts left unresolved can spiral into a divided community. Many people were injured and many lost their lives in this 30 year feud. Hope you enjoy this episode.
Every have a bad day at work? Probably does not compare to the day these three gentlemen had. Just a normal days activities turn into the largest explosion in Texas history. Was it the beginning of World War III? Will there be nuclear fallout? You will have to listen to understand just how this event happened. Hope ya'll enjoy!
Do the classic mafia stories intrigue you? Did you know that right here in our great state we had an organized crime syndicate that could rival those more famous ones. In this episode we discuss the Maceo Crime Syndicate. These brothers started as barbers and rose to be the undisputed dons of Galveston, along with the still well known Fertitta family. We learned quite a bit in this episode and had fun doing it. Hope you find it as enjoying.
The honorable Judge Roy Bean Jr. Well... honorable might be a stretch. How does a murdering thief make a career out of dishing out justice? You'll have to listen to this episode to learn more. This really is good ol' Texas justice.
In this latest episode, we cover a very dark episode in the Rangers history. It was a time when Texans living along the Mexican border had to deal not only with Comanches, but Pancho Villa and his raiding bandits. The Rangers of the time were left up to their own methods of dealing with the violence they faced and sometimes the outcomes are not so pleasant.
In this episode you have it all. A rich gentlemen, his prostitute companion, jewels, swindling, lawyers and politicians...and murder! This is story that is cut right out of the headlines in 1877 and is one of the most famous murders in Texas history. Hope ya'll enjoy!
Gail Borden...yes the milk man, but so much more. He was not born in Texas, but what he did for Texas is simply unbelievable. He was a farmer, surveyor, revolutionist, publisher, collector, agent, inventor, entrepreneur and philanthropist. And yet, this does not even come close to scratching the surface. This was a request from one of our listeners and we are so happy that he turned us on to this great Texan.
Howard Edward Butt transforms a successful small family business into a true Texas staple. This is the story of the meteoric rise of a local company, but also one that prides itself in doing good in the local community. They can't all be H-E-B, but we'd all be better if they were.
For all of you watching the Yellowstone prequel, 1883, we believe you will find this episode timely and interesting. This one jumped up in our list of ones we wanted to do, because we wanted to learn more about it since we are watching the show. This is a crazy, rowdy, fun, dangerous and tragic topic to cover. There is alot hear, so we hope you find it entertaining and maybe learn a thing a two.
We have it all in this episode. As we approach Christmas, we discuss a true Texas miracle. Imagine natives that have never known Christianity until they meet a nun dressed in blue that comes to them out of know where. Imagine 2000 of them asking to be baptized and now imagine that when she leaves, blue bonnets appear for the first time in Texas. Come on!!! You gotta be intrigued by this story.
In this episode, we discuss the history of the Camino Real de los Tejas. As you learn about this thoroughfare, you realize it's undeniable importance to the people that have always lived in Texas. Its a very large subject to cover, but we keep it high-level and fun. Hope you enjoy!
In this episode, we discuss the origins of the rodeo in Tejas. It is a story rooted deep in our history. It is tough to separate this story from our lineage. It seems all intertwined. We sincerely hope that you enjoy this Texas Tale as much as we enjoyed discovering and telling it.
In this episode we break down the Columbia space shuttle explosion over Texas and the incredible response by our fellow Texans. This was truly a tragic event, but really brought the best out in everyone. Hats off to NASA and hats off to all ya’ll!
Leave it up to Texans to beat the hell out of their opponent only to find themselves behind enemy lines. It takes the most unlikely of people to come to their aid. In this episode we tell a tall tale about honorary Texans that saved our Texas boys.
Who knew the path to freedom was south rather than north? In this episode we uncover how slaves in Texas participated in the Underground Railroad. This was a very eye opening subject for us and one that we believe is worth a listen. Hope you enjoy!
Fall is in the air and the undeniable truth that Halloween is just around the corner. As we enter into the spooky and scary season, we thought we would do podcasts that frankly give us the heebee jeebees.
In this episode, we take you on a tour of Texas....to visit all the places that could potentially scare the hell out of you. You have ghosts, demons, shape shifters and even satyrs. This is our last episode before Halloween and we hope that you have enjoyed the walk down spooky lane with us. Make sure your parents check your candy before your eat it.
Fall is in the air and the undeniable truth that Halloween is just around the corner. As we enter into the spooky and scary season, we thought we would do podcasts that frankly give us the heebee jeebees.
The Grove is consistently ranked one of the most haunted places in Texas and the U.S. Not to mention, Jefferson is considered one of the most haunted towns. In this episode we cover the ghostly beings that haunt the place and the history of their mortal selves. We hope you really enjoy this one as much as we did. Be safe out there...it's spooky season.
Fall is in the air and the undeniable truth that Halloween is just around the corner. As we enter into the spooky and scary season, we thought we would do podcasts that frankly give us the heebee jeebees.
In the 1940's the town of Texarkana was scared out of their minds. A serial killer was on the loose preying on their youth. This sicko was never caught and the memory still lingers in the minds of the town's citizens today.
Fall is in the air and the undeniable truth that Halloween is just around the corner. As we enter into the spooky and scary season, we thought we would do podcasts that frankly just give us the heebee jeebees.
As you drive through one of the most beautiful landscapes in Texas, it is hard recon with the fact that so many horrific events have taken place there. It seems at times, that the spirits of the dead have never left. Explore with us Devil's Backbone. One of the most haunted places in Texas. Beautiful by day. Scary as hell by night.
Fall is in the air and the undeniable truth that Halloween is just around the corner. As we enter into the spooky and scary season, we thought we would do podcasts that frankly just give us the heebee jeebees.
So why not kick off with a bit of mass murder? This story is about a real bad guy that preys on travelers between New Orleans and San Antonio in the early 1800's. I can't imagine what could be worse than the story that unfolds in this episode. We hope you enjoy this little known Texas history....and take care of yourselves out there.
These guys were unbelievable. Left Texas and fought under General Robert E Lee and the Army of Northern Virginia. They participated in an unbelievable amount of the battles that decided the fate of America. They found themselves at the center of the successes the Confederate States of America had early and were present at their ultimate defeat. No matter how we judge their cause today, they truly are legendary.
In our latest episode, we discuss the history of the Texas Longhorn. Not just Texas history, but global lineage. This is a really interesting subject that highlights how this incredible animal evolved to the Texas icon the world knows today.
In this episode we discuss the history of the creamery that is known to have "the best ice cream in the country" and the family behind it. We will cover their ups and downs and why in 2015 they almost shut down the company. Listen to learn a bit and laugh alot.
In this episode we discuss the origins of Cinco de Mayo and the impact (beyond a day to drink) on Texas and the U.S.A. An ordinary boy born in Goliad, from a family steep in Texas lore rises to general of the Mexican army and defeats not only Santa Ana, but Napoleon III. You can't make this stuff up. Grab a drink and have fun with this one!
In this episode we review our favorite episodes from the first season and why we loved them so much. We hope that this is a great way to kick off season 2. Hope you enjoy this quick look back, before we venture forward.
In this episode we discuss the little know Archive War. This was the battle that decided ultimately if Houston or Austin would be the state capital. We discuss the two main power players (Sam Houston / Houston and Mirabeau Lamar / Austin) that are working relentlessly to secure the most important Texas documents and where they would ultimately reside. Guess who wins?
In this episode we discuss a tragic event in Texas history. The New London school explosion was the third most deadly event in our history. An entire town was faced to respond, mourn and cope with this horrific accident that killed hundred of students and teachers in a very tight knit community.
In this episode we uncover the story of the flying WASPs and their unbelievable story of bravery, service to our country and the lack of recognition they received by our government.
In this episode we walk the list of the most notorious serial killers to ever step foot in Texas. If you are into this type of stuff, you will probably love it.
Not sure what you know about not only the Texas Navy. Well... we surprised ourselves with how little we actually knew. It wasn't always great times for our guys offshore, but they definitely played a major part in our celebrated history. Hope you learn as much as we did.
In this episode we attempt to understand how the Comancheros and their dealings with the New Mexico government and the U.S. government led to years of war between the Texicans and those fierce fighters, raiders and thieves known as the Comanche.
This episode is as tasty as they come. Go grab a bag full of taquitos and listen to us discuss everything Whataburger.
Why don't they teach us about this person in Texas history? She was an amazing lady. Love her or hate her...you will appreciate the story. Cheers friends!
Texas is the most recognizable state in the nation...err the World. In this episode we discuss why they are where they are.
In this episode we discuss why and how The University of Texas is so crazy wealthy. We'll give you a hint....oil!
In this episode we chat about how Texas is friendly to inventors. A lot of great things have come from Texas and we have left our mark on this world. Come join us for a really fun topic and conversation!
We drink our way through this episode with Dr. Pepper and rum drinks. Had a great time uncovering the native Texas carbonated beverage from it's origins all the way through present day. Hope you enjoy this one half as much as we enjoyed doing it.
In this episode, we drink our way through many of the states laws that are down right funny. Why were these ever laws? Why don't we still enforce some of these and what actually happens if you get caught milking another man's cow?
In this episode we dive deep into a dark period in Texas history. What happens when a mob takes actions into their own hands? An event most call the Gainesville Hangings. We will refer to them as lynchings.
All across this great state, barbecue is celebrated. In this episode we highlight many of the best bbq experiences and how it came to be. We hope this episode makes you crave some of your own tasty experiences.
Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, Fats Domino, Stevie Ray Vaughn and many many others played at the Cotton Club in Lubbock over the years. What an amazing place this must have been during its hay day!
In this episode, we travel back to 1919 in Witchita Falls, Texas. What do you get when you mix some rich oil guys with too much money and an out of town swindler? You get Boomtown Bamboozled.
In this episode we uncover a long lost Texas political dynasty. We retell the story of a multi-generational powerhouse. Join us for the story of Clay Henry, Clay Henry Junior and Clay Henry III or otherwise known as the drunk goat mayors.
Merchant ship and Texans savior. This ship saw a lot in its short time in Texas. Long before there were trains, in land towns were restocked through barges and steamships that made the treacherous journeys up Texas's shallow rivers. Once war with Mexico broke out, this ship was used to evacuate people that were in the path of Mexican destruction. Pour a cocktail before listening and you will feel right at home.
No clue. Seriously! We enjoy unknown history, but this one is out there. In this episode we highlight how El Paso had the largest Chinese population in all of Texas for a time. How did they get there? Why did they stay and ultimately what happened to them? History is not always about the obvious and if our tales were the same as all the others, then why would you ever listen?
What do you call a cavalry with no horses? A cavalry led by Teddy Roosevelt. This was a really fun conversation about Teddy's time in San Antonio and the events that eventually led to him becoming president. Hope you enjoy!
Don't act like you have heard of this before. We dug deep for this one. It is a fascinating story about Jean Lafitte and his time on Galveston Island and the events that led to him ultimately sailing away to never be heard from again. This is a humorous episode that will entertain you while hopefully sharing a piece of Texas history that you never knew happened.
Spring in Texas means baseball. Its the start of a new season and what a great time it is. Whether you are a Rangers fan or an Astros fan, the one thing we can agree on, is that baseball is back! This is a short and funny episode about the roots of this great sport in this great state. Imagine playing outfield and getting shot at by Confederate soldiers! Who knew? Hope you take time to enjoy this episode.
Honestly....we were a bit sauced up for this one. Listen and let us know if you can tell for yourself, but we had a great time doing it. We attempt to tell the story of Sam. His rise. His fall and the legend.
The town that saw so much heartbreak . It had so much potential. It was the port of entry for many of the Germans that made Texas home. Without it, we might not have kolaches, brats or all those German towns throughout the state. Celebrate the legacy of Indianola with us and let us never forget.
Who knew??? Not us...apparently. Imagine, you are off fighting a war in Africa, Europe or Japan and back home Hanz Kraut is hitting on the girl that you are sweet on. It happened! Join us to explore how this came to be and why the heck don't more of us know this story. We don't know, but what an interesting part of our history this is.
Where in the world are the Canary Islands and how did these people find their way to San Antonio? In this episode, we seek to find these answers. We drink and B.S. our way through the times and events that led to an unbelievable journey to Texas and an unbelievable group of people that made this their home. I wish we had as much conviction as they did, but nonetheless, we can tell a good tale.
An episode that will make you feel much better about COVID. Yellow Jack or Yellow Fever reaped havoc on Texas for decades...and decades. Black vomit, followed by almost immediate death and no idea how to prevent it. This is what our Texas ancestors dealt with. Come hear the stories about this deadly virus, what came of those that lived through it and how we ultimately overcame it. It does not sound like an uplifting episode, but we do our best to make it entertaining.
What do you get when you have 700 upset Comanche, Caddo and Wichita Indians outside your front door? Well...the title gives it away. We deep dive into all the events that led up to this unfortunate event and how that day played out for the Parker family. This was a fun episode to do and personally one of our favorite events to shoot the sh!t about. Come enjoy and have fun unraveling this tragic event.
Yes...this is how we are choosing to kick this off. In our first ever episode, we are telling the tales of the The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Have fun with it. We sure did.
Welcome to the first Texas Tales episode. In this short, you will hear us determine what the heck we want this podcast to be about. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did doing it.