Épisodes

  • Inside Local Journalism in Kerr County with Irene Van Winkle

    Inside Local Journalism in Kerr County with Irene Van Winkle
    Dec 17 2025
    Welcome to award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this the most unique areas of Texas. Today I visit with Irene Van Winkle, a writer, journalist, and photographer for the West Kerr Current newspaper in Ingram. Irene shares her journey into journalism, experiences working at various local media outlets, and the critical role local newspapers play in small communities like Ke County. She discusses the unique aspects of local journalism, the impact of natural disasters like floods on the community, and how local media helps in bringing the community together. Irene also touches on the importance of high school sports and the supportive community network that exists in smaller towns. The episode concludes with Irene's personal connection to Ukraine and her support for the country's fight for freedom. Key Highlights · Irene's Background and Journey to Kerr County · Career in Journalism · The Print Media Scene in Kerr County · The Role and Character of the West Kerr Current · Impact of Local Sports Coverage · July 4th Flood and Community Resilience · Rebuilding and Recovery Efforts West Kerr Current Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts Hill Country Authors Podcast Hill Country Artists Podcast Texas Hill Country Podcast Network Cover Art Nancy Huffman
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    34 min
  • Lorena Guillen on the July 4th Flood: Part 2 - Aftermath and Recovery

    Lorena Guillen on the July 4th Flood: Part 2 - Aftermath and Recovery
    Dec 10 2025
    Welcome to the award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this one of the most unique areas of Texas. Today, I begin a two-part series with Lorena Guillen, owner of Howdy’s Restaurant and Blue Oak RV Park. The July 4th flood completely inundated her RV Park. In Part 1, Guillen discussed the events of the morning of July 4. Today in Part 2, she discusses the aftermath of tragedy and attempts at recovery. In Part 2, Guillen shares the harrowing aftermath of a devastating flood that hit her RV Park on July 4th. Her details reveal the initial chaos, rescue efforts, and the critical role her property played in facilitating emergency response. The narrative transitions to the prolonged struggles to restore her business, the challenges of navigating FEMA and SBA processes, and the emotional and financial toll on her family. Despite immense difficulties, the unwavering support from the community provides hope and highlights the importance of local resilience. This story offers insight into disaster recovery and the bureaucratic obstacles small business owners often face. Highlights include: The Aftermath of July 4th: A Rollercoaster Ride Ground Zero: The First Two Weeks Community Support and Recovery Efforts Struggles with FEMA and SBA Hope and Future Plans Unanswered Questions and Final Thoughts Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts Hill Country Authors Podcast Hill Country Artists Podcast Texas Hill Country Podcast Network Cover Art Nancy Huffman
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    23 min
  • Lorena Guillen on the July 4th Flood: Part 1 - The Flood

    Lorena Guillen on the July 4th Flood: Part 1 - The Flood
    Dec 3 2025
    Welcome to the award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this one of the most unique areas of Texas. Today, I begin a two-part series with Lorena Guillen, owner of Howdy’s Restaurant and Blue Oak RV Park. The July 4th flood completely inundated her RV Park. In Part 1, Guillen discusses the events of the morning of July 4. In Part 2, she will discuss the events of that tragedy through today. She begins with the beauty of July 3rd and goes to bed early on July 4. Guillen relates being awakened by flashing lights of a swift water rescue team, putting into the river. She recounts the devastating flood event where a second wave of water caused severe damage and displacement. She describes the rapid onset of the flood, the destruction of RVs, and the harrowing survival of her husband, who was swept 30-45 feet down a river but managed to climb to safety. She relates the surreal sensation of feeling electricity in the water and the loss of animals they were trying to rescue. The fire department eventually evacuated everyone from a nearby restaurant as the water levels continued to rise. Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts Hill Country Authors Podcast Hill Country Artists Podcast Texas Hill Country Podcast Network Cover Art Nancy Huffman
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    26 min
  • Student Voices of the Hill Country: A Schreiner Student Pod Series - Episode 5: Ads and Controversies: Lessons in PR and Marketing

    Student Voices of the Hill Country: A Schreiner Student Pod Series - Episode 5: Ads and Controversies: Lessons in PR and Marketing
    Nov 21 2025
    Welcome to a special production of the Hill Country Podcast, a 12-part series in collaboration with the communicators of tomorrow from right here in the Texas Hill Country. The Hill Country Podcast and the Texas Hill Country Podcast Network have partnered with the talented students from Dr. Adolfo Mora’s Communications class at Schreiner University to turn the microphone over to them. Join us each episode as these fresh voices explore critical topics, challenge modern ideas, and provide their unique perspectives on the world of communication. In this episode, hosts Alina and Bailey are joined by Autumn Pate, a history enthusiast specializing in old advertisements. Together, they delve into the realm of advertising and PR controversies. The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted game about distinguishing between makeup and food products, setting the stage for a lively discussion. The episode then explores major controversies, such as the Mario Badescu Healing Cream scandal and the SK-II Essence serum by Procter & Gamble, and examines the unforeseen risks posed by undisclosed ingredients. Autumn shares the infamous New Coke disaster of 1985, highlighting corporate missteps in altering beloved products. The hosts also tackle recent controversies, such as American Eagle's tone-deaf ad campaign featuring Sidney Sweeney, juxtaposed with Gap's more inclusive approach. Additional discussions cover the provocative Calvin Klein ads of the 1980s, Childish Gambino's 'This is America,' and the impact of storytelling in modern advertisements. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of strategic communication and the challenges of balancing goodwill with public perception. Key highlights: The New Coke Debacle American Eagle vs. Gap Ad Controversy Calvin Klein's Controversial Campaign Childish Gambino's 'This is America' Controversy Scented or Sentient: Celebrity Baby Names vs. Luxury Candles Gillette's Controversial Ad: The Best a Man Can Get Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts Hill Country Authors Podcast Hill Country Artists Podcast Texas Hill Country Podcast Network Cover Art Nancy Huffman
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    49 min
  • Pat Flynn’s Unique Journey in the Stump Removal Business

    Pat Flynn’s Unique Journey in the Stump Removal Business
    Nov 19 2025
    Welcome to the award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this the most unique area of Texas. This week, Tom visits with Pat Flynn, who has been running a stump grinding and removal business in Keville since 2012. Pat shares his unique journey into the business, from meeting an inventor of a specialized stump grinding machine to operating his own custom-built grinder. He discusses the high demand for stump removal in the Hill Country, particularly due to oak wilt and drought. Pat also talks about the versatility of his equipment, which can handle both large and small stumps. Operating as a one-man band, with his dog Jackson, who doubles as his customer service representative, Pat provides insights into his business operations, pricing strategies, and the geographic areas he serves. He highlights some of his most extensive projects, including a major post-snowpocalypse job, and his preferences for working in Dallas and the Hill Country. Key highlights: Pat Flynn’s Unique Business The Journey into Stump Grinding The Stump Grinding Machine Meet Jackson, the Customer Service Rep Memorable Jobs and Challenges Impact of Natural Disasters Resources: Pat Flynn Stump Removal on Facebook Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts Hill Country Authors Podcast Hill Country Artists Podcast Texas Hill Country Podcast Network Cover Art Nancy Huffman
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    12 min
  • Student Voices of the Hill Country: A Schreiner Student Pod Series – Episode 4: Skip It or Play It: Understanding the Power of Influencer Advertising

    Student Voices of the Hill Country: A Schreiner Student Pod Series – Episode 4: Skip It or Play It: Understanding the Power of Influencer Advertising
    Nov 14 2025
    Welcome to a special production of the Hill Country Podcast, which is a 12-part series collaboration with the communicators of tomorrow from right here in the Texas Hill Country. The Hill Country Podcast and the Texas Hill Country Podcast Network have partnered with the talented students from Dr. Adolfo Mora’s Communications class at Schreiner University to turn the microphone over to them. Join us each episode as these fresh voices explore critical topics, challenge modern ideas, and provide their unique perspectives on the world of communication. In this episode of 'Would You Skip It,' hosts Pilar and Brianna delve into the captivating world of social media and influencer advertising. They explore how parasocial relationships—one-sided bonds formed between audiences and influencers—impact purchasing decisions. The episode breaks down three key aspects: perceived intimacy, authenticity, and emotional investment, using examples like Emma Chamberlain, Mr. Beast, and Selena Gomez. The discussion aims to unravel why influencer ads often feel more genuine and effective compared to traditional advertisements. By understanding these dynamics, listeners can better navigate the digital marketing landscape and make more informed choices. Key highlights: Understanding Parasocial Relationships Perceived Intimacy in Influencer Marketing Authenticity and Trust in Influencer Ads Emotional Investment and Influencer Loyalty Future of Influencer Advertising Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts Hill Country Authors Podcast Hill Country Artists Podcast Texas Hill Country Podcast Network
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    22 min
  • Riding for a Cause: A Journey To the River for the Fight Against MS

    Riding for a Cause: A Journey To the River for the Fight Against MS
    Nov 12 2025
    Welcome to award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this the most unique areas of Texas. This week Tom welcomes back Alan Peterson, who about his participation in the Ride to the River MS event, comparing it to the more well-known Houston to Austin MS 150 ride. Alan shares his motivations, the event logistics, the experience of the ride, and the emotional impact of riding for a cause close to his heart, his mother's battle with MS. The episode also delves into the fundraising aspects of these charity rides, discussing the contributions, overall impact, and the sense of community and purpose that drives participants. Alan highlights the differences between the rides, the support and volunteer participation, and the personal satisfaction he gains from contributing to a meaningful cause. Key Highlights · Discussing the Ride to the River Event · Comparing Different MS Rides · Support and Logistics of the Ride · Personal Motivation and Fundraising · Impact and Future of MS Rides Resources MS Ride to the River Alan Peterson MS Fundraising Page Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts Hill Country Authors Podcast Hill Country Artists Podcast Texas Hill Country Podcast Network Cover Art Nancy Huffman
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    23 min
  • Celebrating the Hill Country Youth Orchestras and the High Tea Event

    Celebrating the Hill Country Youth Orchestras and the High Tea Event
    Nov 5 2025
    Welcome to the award-winning The Hill Country Podcast. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places on earth. In this podcast, Hill Country resident Tom Fox visits with the people and organizations that make this area of Texas so unique. This week, Tom welcomes fellow Hill Country Youth Orchestra board member, Greg Shrader. They discuss their shared passion for the youth orchestras and highlight their major annual fundraiser, the High Tea event, scheduled for December 6th at the Museum of Western Art. Greg shares insights into the significance and charm of the High Tea and its role in supporting the youth orchestra. He recounts its origins after Robert Earl Keen retired from performing benefit concerts. They also explore the impact of youth orchestras on students from grades K-12, including success stories of students advancing to prestigious institutions such as Interlochen and Juilliard. The episode concludes with information on how to support and get involved with the Hill Country Youth Orchestras. Key highlights: The High Tea Fundraiser: Origins and Importance Musical Performances and Youth Orchestra Impact The Venue: Museum of Western Art Resources: Hill Country Youth Orchestras High Tea Fundraiser Other Hill Country Focused Podcasts Hill Country Authors Podcast Hill Country Artists Podcast Texas Hill Country Podcast Network Cover Art Nancy Huffman
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    12 min