ATXplained

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March 1, 2018

Who’s That Distinctly Texan Voice Behind The Crosswalk Signals Around Austin?

By: Matt Largey

You might have heard that twang beckoning you across the street. Meet the real-life person behind the walk signal.


Episodes

May 8, 2025

Is it safe to live near an old East Austin ‘Tank Farm’?

Decades ago, there were dozens of huge fuel storage tanks in East Austin — in some cases right next to homes, schools and businesses. These days, the whole thing is seen as a case of textbook environmental racism. But one East Austin resident wanted to know: what still lurks in the soil long after the […]

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April 24, 2025

Why are there so many of the same kind of bars on Sixth Street?

Sixth Street is known for being party central, but it’s actually one of the most historic areas of the city.

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April 10, 2025

Why are there so many ‘Violet Crowns’ in Austin?

Violet Crown this. Violet Crown that. What’s the deal with this name for so many Austin things?

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March 27, 2025

Who has the oldest friendship in Austin?

This is a tough one. But we do our best, and maybe learn a little something about friendship along the way.

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March 13, 2025

How long have movies and TV shows been filmed in Austin?

We’re back with a new season of stories about Austin’s people, places and culture. As SXSW rolls through Austin this week, we answer a question from Sarah Dixon about the history of films and filmmaking in Austin.

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November 22, 2024

Introducing 24 Hours in Austin

TXplained wants to share a new podcast with you. 24 Hours in Austin tries to answer the question: What does a day in the life of Austin, Texas sound like?

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October 17, 2024

Why are people dropping flour in weird patterns around Austin?

Our question asker noticed it happening at Boggy Creek Trail. But the explanation is weirder — and more fun! — than you might think.

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October 3, 2024

Why hasn’t Bob Schneider ever had a Top 40 hit?

We investigate why “Austin treasure” Bob Schneider has seen big success on the local scene, but hasn’t seemed to crack into the world of huge mainstream “success”.

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