Cicero said, “If you have a library and a garden, you have all that you need.” Texas Standard commentator WF Strong says you can begin to understand that wisdom when you enter the gates of Quinta Mazatlan. It’s an urban oasis in south McAllen.
Episodes
April 29, 2026
How a man named Connie forged a global chain that started in Texas
Texas has been the starting point for a lot of iconic brands. Whataburger, H-E-B and Buc-ee’s are a few modern behemoths that come to mind. But Texas as a place to start a business goes back way further than that. W.F. Strong has the story of a man named Connie who forged a global chain […]
Listen
April 15, 2026
Collective historical memory is not always based in fact. Take the example that Napoleon was short. You might call these historical myths.
Listen
March 18, 2026
How the Texas Hill Country inspired NYC’s Central Park
It’s not hard to find a Texas connection to a news story. The same is true for history. One example that may surprise you is the fact that the Texas Hill Country inspired the design of New York Central Park. Texas Standard commentator W.F. Strong explores. Stories from Texas is a listener-supported production of KUT […]
Listen
March 4, 2026
Texas Standard commentator W.F. Strong professes he knows a good deal about Texas literature, but has far less knowledge as to what classic and historical Texas books, in good condition, are worth.
Listen
February 18, 2026
‘He didn’t take on an iconic role, he made the role iconic’: W.F. Strong on Robert Duvall
Texas Standard’s commentator remembers the Academy Award-winning actor who was not born a Texan, but played a heck of one on TV and film.
Listen
February 4, 2026
Sandra Cisneros, a Texas literary rock star
Texas Standard commentator W.F. Strong examines how one of the state’s most celebrated writers found a home in San Antonio.
Listen
January 22, 2026
LBJ’s presidency was marked by turbulent change. And while the longtime Texas-born politician is often remembered for his role in the war and in civil rights, few remember what Commentator WF Strong calls LBJ’s ‘ secret weapon’ — his sense of humor.
Listen
January 7, 2026
Traces of Texas – A priceless gift for all Texans
W.F. Strong offers up a story of thanks for Traces of Texas.
Listen
