The Best Storyteller In Texas Podcast

What do a one-man riot squad, a tattoo framed by a mortician, and a triple play in Little League have in common?  They're all part of this wildly entertaining episode of  Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast . In this episode, Kent Hance shares the larger-than-life story of  Lone Wolf Gonzaullas , a legendary Texas Ranger who brought law and order to oil boomtowns with a pearl-handled...

📘 "What issues are going to impact me and my family in America for the next five years—and the next twenty?" In this compelling episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas , originally published in November 2024 , Kent dives deep into the heart of American democracy with a timely and passionate reflection on Election Day. From international perspectives on U.S. elections to the razor-thi...

📘 "How do Camp David, cockfighting, and gerrymandering all connect?" That's the question Kent Hance playfully poses in this eclectic and thought-provoking episode that spans presidential retreats, outlawed blood sports, and the political chessboard of congressional redistricting. Kent opens with a reflection on Camp David's storied history—from FDR's Shangri-La to Reagan's horseback rides and Bus...

"If you don't have time to do it right, what makes you think you'll have time to do it twice?" That timeless quote from legendary coach John Wooden sets the tone for this episode, where Kent Hance explores the power of preparation, the importance of keeping your word, and the consequences of ignoring common sense. In this wide-ranging and deeply engaging episode, Kent shares stories that span deca...

📘 "Would you have dropped the bomb?" That's the question Kent Hance wrestles with in this riveting episode, as he dives into one of the most consequential decisions in world history—President Truman's call to end WWII with atomic force. With the 80th anniversary of Hiroshima looming, Kent reflects on the gravity of leadership, the cost of war, and the legacy of the Manhattan Project, all through...

    📘 What do you get when you mix a Texas Tech law class, a childhood talent show, and a Grammy-winning country music career? You get Rudy Gatlin—one-third of the legendary Gatlin Brothers—and the unforgettable stories that shaped his life. In this heartwarming and hilarious episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas , Kent sits down with his former student and longtime friend, Rudy Ga...

📘What do chicken wire, gospel hymns, and a canceled real estate course have in common? They're all part of Rudy Gatlin's unforgettable journey in Part 2 of his conversation with Kent Hance. In this episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas , Rudy Gatlin—of the legendary Gatlin Brothers—returns with more behind-the-scenes stories from a life spent on stage and on the road. From dodging...

In this captivating episode of  Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas , Kent takes us on a nostalgic and thought-provoking journey through two of the most ambitious technological marvels of the 20th century: the Apollo moon landings and the supersonic Concorde jet. With his signature wit and wisdom, Kent reflects on the boundless optimism of the 1960s and 70s, when Americans believed we'd be l...

  "Why did Walt Disney borrow against his life insurance—and what does that have to do with a pink pistol, a serial butt slapper, and a college freshman named Larry?" In this wildly entertaining and insight-packed episode, Kent Hance weaves together stories that span from the moon landing to Mickey Mouse, from late-night TV to freshman orientation at Texas Tech. 💡 Key Themes & Highlights: The Pow...

  "Why did Walt Disney borrow against his life insurance—and what does that have to do with a pink pistol, a serial butt slapper, and a college freshman named Larry?" In this wildly entertaining and insight-packed episode, Kent Hance weaves together stories that span from the moon landing to Mickey Mouse, from late-night TV to freshman orientation at Texas Tech. 💡 Key Themes & Highlights: The Pow...

In this episode, host Kent Hance continues his engaging conversation with retired federal judge Lee Yeakel. Judge Yeakel shares memorable stories from decades of following University of Texas baseball, recalling standout athletes and legendary games. The discussion then turns to his judicial career, highlighting notable and sometimes humorous cases, including a lengthy tax fraud trial and complex...

In this episode, host Kent Hance interviews Judge Lee Yeakel, a former federal judge in Austin, Texas. Judge Yeakel discusses his upbringing, education at the University of Texas, and early legal career, sharing insights into the Texas legal market of the late 1960s. The conversation covers notable legal and sports figures, memorable anecdotes, and the evolution of legal practice. Judge Yokel deta...

In this episode, host Kent Hance discusses the most significant floods in U.S. history, comparing river and flash floods, and discussing their impact on communities and infrastructure. Hance highlights events like the 1927 Mississippi River flood and Hurricane Katrina, while also sharing stories of resilience, government response, and advances in warning systems. The conversation shifts to quirky...

In this episode, host Kent Hance discusses the most significant floods in U.S. history, comparing river and flash floods, and discussing their impact on communities and infrastructure. Hance highlights events like the 1927 Mississippi River flood and Hurricane Katrina, while also sharing stories of resilience, government response, and advances in warning systems. The conversation shifts to quirky...

Join Kent Hance on "The Best Storyteller in Texas" as he dives into the crucial topic of flood safety in the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Kent shares gripping personal stories and recent events, including the July 4th floods, emphasizing the life-saving message: "Turn around, don't drown." Discover why this advice is vital for Texans, hear Kent's praise for Congressman Jody Arrington's leg...

In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," host Kent Hance dives into the inspiring journey of  young leaders , spotlighting  Andrew Hughes  and his path to becoming the  deputy secretary of HUD . Through engaging storytelling, Kent shares personal anecdotes and insightful reflections on  leadership , history, and the art of political negotiation. Listeners will hear about piv...

In this episode, host Kent Hance discusses recent U.S. military actions against Iran, providing historical context on U.S.-Iran relations and the Iranian revolution. Hance analyzes the effectiveness of a recent bombing operation, contrasts it with the Afghanistan withdrawal, and considers the implications for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy. He also examines Middle Eastern reactions, th...

In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," host Kent Hance shares insights from his time in Congress and discusses a range of topics, including the recent tragic shooting of officials in Minnesota, security concerns for public servants, and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. The conversation also touches on domestic issues such as fast-food preferences...

In this episode, host Kent Hance interviews renowned pollster Mike Baselice about the evolving world of political polling. Together, they discuss the intricacies of polling methods, the impact of question wording, and the challenges of collecting accurate data in today's media landscape. Bass shares stories from high-profile campaigns, including Rick Perry's, and reflects on demographic shifts and...

 Kent welcomes pollster Mike Baselice for a wide-ranging conversation on political strategy, polling, and the changing media landscape. Baselice shares stories from his early career, insights into Texas politics, and the evolution of polling methods, including the shift from landlines to digital targeting. The episode highlights the importance of understanding voter turnout, demographics, and loca...

In this episode of  Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast,  Kent sits down with Sam Middleton, a titan of Texas real estate and the owner/broker of Chas. S. Middleton and Son. Known for brokering some of the most iconic ranch sales in American history, Sam takes us behind the scenes of his legendary career. From orchestrating the $725 million sale of the historic W.T. Waggoner Ranch to...

Kent is joined by Sam Middleton, the seasoned West Texas ranch broker from Chas. S. Middleton and Son, who orchestrated the blockbuster sale of the 266,000-acre Four Sixes Ranch to a group led by "Yellowstone" creator Taylor Sheridan. Sam walks us through the grit and glory of brokering one of Texas' most storied land deals, a testament to his decades in the ranch real estate game. But the convers...

In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," Kent explores the theme of invention and innovation. He discusses how necessity drives the creation of significant inventions like fire, the wheel, the printing press, gunpowder, and the internet. The conversation highlights the profound impact these inventions have had on society, communication, and family dynamics. The episode offer...

In this episode, Kent shares his reflections on the profound impact of teachers, the nuances of effective communication, and the complexities of foreign policy under President Trump. Hance emphasizes the significant role of educators, the importance of clarity in communication, and the strategic aspects of Trump's diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. The episode also touches on trade policies, t...

In this episode of "Kent Hance,  The Best Storyteller in Texas," host Kent shares compelling stories about the Dust Bowl's impact on the Great Plains. Kent provides a detailed narrative on the history of farming in the region, the severe challenges faced during the Dust Bowl, and the government's response to the crisis. He recounts personal anecdotes, including the tragic loss of his brother to du...