Over the course of the year we talk with dozens of authors – some stars in the making, others well-known names among Texas readers – and today we’re sharing a selection of great reads in 2024.Plus: Just in time for Black Friday, booksellers share their top books for holiday gifts. The post Some of our favorite books of 2024 appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

This Thanksgiving, we’re reflecting on some of the stories we’ve been grateful to share over the past few months:– A Texas-based freelance visual journalist reflecting on winning a prestigious prize– A Uganda-born musician who calls Texas home and is taking the U.S. by storm– A comedian landing on many best-of lists, now reconnecting with his Texas homeAnd much more on a special Thanksgiving edition of the Texas Standard. The post Stories we’re thankful for this year appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

We’ve been cooking up a special treat: a show all about Texas eats and drinks – the sweet, the savory and everything in between.The biggest food story in Texas in recent months was the announcement of the first-ever Texas Michelin guide, the creme-de-la-creme.What Texas Monthly’s barbecue editor learned traveling the country in search of BBQ.Inside the Atkinson Candy Co., which has been handcrafting classic treats in Lufkin for 92 years.And: A new podcast about Texas whiskey that you just might think is neat. The post Work up your Thanksgiving appetite with these Texas food tidbits appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

We’re taking a look at the Texans who have been picked for President-elect Trump’s new Cabinet.How some Democratic candidates in parts of Texas won their races amid a big red wave.There’s a demand for raw milk, despite its health risks, and more public officials are saying that folks should be able to have it if they want it.After 13 years, UT and Texas A&M are back on the football field this holiday weekend. What to expect as the rivals meet again.Plus: The Standard’s Kristen Cabrera goes behind the scenes with ArnieTex, a Rio Grande Valley grilling sensation with nearly a million YouTube subscribers. The post ArnieTex brings the flavors of South Texas to millions on YouTube appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The State Board of Education has approved a new Bible-infused curriculum that critics say overemphasizes Christianity and is a likely violation of the separation of church and state. It’s set for introduction in schools in 2025, though it’s likely to face a long legal battle.Election transparency vs ballot secrecy: How changes to state law may have inadvertently exposed ballot choices for thousands of Texans, and what lawmakers may try to do to fix things.Van Zandt County, about an hour east of Dallas, is mostly rural and quiet. But a potential energy project is causing some locals to make a lot of noise.Plus: What to know about a new question about immigration status for many seeking hospital treatment in Texas. The post State Board of Education approves Bible-infused curriculum appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A Houston-area nonprofit that helped thousands find a new life in the U.S. disappears. A new investigation reveals surprising answers about what happened to the Alliance.More international students than ever before are studying in the U.S., and among the top destinations are the University of North Texas and UT Dallas.How a much-talked-about Department of Government Efficiency could affect the hundreds of thousands of federal workers in Texas.In a surprise move, SpaceX has pulled out of a land swap deal with Texas Parks and Wildlife.And: A few months ago, 17-year-old Tobi Haastrup didn’t know what a first down was. Now, the Houston player is one of the hottest prospects in college football. The post SpaceX backs out of Boca Chica Beach land swap appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The president-elect says he might use the military to support mass deportations of migrants in the country without legal authorization. But there are considerable obstacles to such an effort, both legal and logistic.A new trade policy with an accent on tariffs. How Texas might find itself in the crosshairs.Gov. Greg Abbott is pushing to boost nuclear power in the Lone Star State.With the WNBA set to add teams in San Francisco, Portland and Toronto, there’s speculation about a 16th team. Could Austin be next?And: how to kickstart a Kickstarter campaign. The post WNBA expansion sparks hopes for Austin franchise appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick wants the state to lead in dementia research. Why it’s such a priority and what happens next.More people than ever get their news via social media, but with feeds looking very different for different folks, how do you bring people together? As the Standard’s Sarah Asch reports, the public library might help.A school district in the Panhandle has a unique model for providing scholarship money for students. Commentator WF Strong says it began with a gift.Plus: Rainbow trout may soon be arriving at a body of water near you. How to take advantage. The post How news organizations are partnering with public libraries  appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texas leaders are among President-elect Trump’s biggest supporters. Are they being left off the list of Cabinet picks?She’s traveled and tasted dishes from across the Lone Star State: After 50 years, Texas Monthly food critic Pat Sharpe is retiring and sharing what she’s learned on the job.The details of a plan to turn an old golf course into a world-class arboretum in San Antonio.And: An update on the results of a rural summit bringing residents, local officials and state lawmakers together. The post After nearly 50 years, food critic Pat Sharpe asks for the check appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The Texas State Board of Education could soon approve a curriculum that includes Bible stories and doesn’t spend as much time on slavery.It’s been 25 years since one of the darkest moments in Texas A&M history. Reflecting on the impact of the Aggie bonfire collapse.Families in America today can look a lot different than what’s long been considered “normal.” The podcast “Refamulating“ explores why it’s important to re-think family.A Black-owned bookstore in North Texas is closing one chapter, but its owner says even after very challenging times, the story isn’t over.Plus: Why Faith Family Academy, a dominant team in girls basketball, won’t be allowed in the state playoffs. The post Reflecting on the Aggie bonfire tragedy, 25 years later appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.