Tacos of Texas

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September 27, 2021

Chicanos & Chingonas on The Rise

By: Mando Rayo

2020 is the taco’s time to shine — and it’s the Chicanos, Latinx, Chingonas behind it all. In this episode, we’ll check in with the entrepreneurs who are behind some of Texas’s hottest food trends. We’ll also examine the ways in which these taqueros are working together to keep traditions alive and the culture as strong as ever. Guests include Emiliano Marentes – Elemi (El Paso), Edgar Rico, Nixta Taqueria (Austin) and Victoria Elizondo, Cochinita & Co (Houston).


Episodes

April 21, 2026

Bonus: Cesar Chavez allegations continue to spur examination of legacy

Mando Rayo talks to Texas Standard host David Brown about the fallout from the sexual assault allegations against labor leader Cesar Chavez.

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April 14, 2026

Tamal or tamale?

Tamal or Tamale? Corn husk or banana leaf? Taco Journalist Mando Rayo weighs in on the great Texas debate…Or is it Tejas?

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April 8, 2026

Healthy Without Breaking Up (with Tacos)

From cauliflower to nopales, swap in some different fillings – but make sure you keep the seasonings. The interview featured in this bonus episode of Tacos of Texas originally aired on the Texas Standard in February 2025. Tacos of Texas is made possible by listeners like you. You can support our work by making a donation […]

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March 31, 2026

Tacos of Texas wraps fifth season delving into politics, new Michelin honorees and more

The Michelin Guide ranking top places to eat was announced in October, 2025. In this bonus episode, Mando Rayo sits down with the Texas Standard to discuss the new Michelin luminaries, as well as details on how he plans to celebrate the podcast’s fifth season. The interview featured in this bonus episode of Tacos of Texas […]

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March 24, 2026

Street vendors in Texas feeling the pinch among heightened immigration anxiety

“They are doing it by selling what they know. They know their food. They know their culture.”

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March 17, 2026

New year, new do’s – and don’ts – of tacos

Taco journalist Mando Rayo shares how he feels diners can be more intentional with how they engage with the cuisine we all love. The interview in this bonus episode of Tacos of Texas was originally aired on the Texas Standard in January, 2026. Tacos of Texas is made possible by listeners like you. You can […]

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March 10, 2026

Behind the Tacos of Texas Podcast with story producer, Louise Van Assche and Mando Rayo

Get to know our story producer, Louise Van Assche! You can find Louise on Instagram at @whereareyoureallyfrom. This interview was originally aired on Austin Signal in November 2025. Special thanks to Jerry Quijano and Kristen Cabrera of the Austin Signal for having us on the show! From the Austin Signal on KUT 90.5, : Tacos […]

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December 9, 2025

Bonus: Flipping the Tortilla: One on One with Mando Rayo

In today’s episode we’re flipping the tortilla. I’m actually the one being interviewed by El Mero Mero and Jr. Taco Correspondent Samuel Franco. So sit back and relax and get to know a little more about El Taco Journalist Mando Rayo (me!)

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