Texas Tales
Get ready for a fun, lively, and sometimes slightly offbeat dive into the history of the Lone Star State! From well-known legends to hidden gems, we’re here to rediscover the people, places, and events that shaped Texas into the fascinating tapestry it is today. Whether we’re unraveling tall tales, debunking myths, or spotlighting forgotten heroes, each episode is packed with humor, curiosity, and a love for all things Texas.
Perfect for your commute, a walk in the park, or a long road trip, these bite-sized episodes are your gateway to exploring Texas history like never before. So, pull up a chair, hit play, and join us as we unbox the untold stories of the state we’re proud to call home!
Texas Tales
Moonshine and Mayhem: The Untold Story of Texas During Prohibition
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Texas never did take kindly to being told what it can’t do—so when Prohibition outlawed alcohol in 1920, Texans found their own way to keep the good times rolling. Deep in the piney woods of East Texas, moonshiners built hidden stills, bootleggers outran the law, and speakeasies flourished under the cover of night. Meanwhile, a flour salesman named W. Lee "Pappy" O’Daniel used radio waves, Western swing music, and a whole lot of biscuits to become a household name—and, eventually, the governor of Texas.
In this episode, we uncover the wild and untold stories of Prohibition in Texas, from high-speed bootlegging chases to lawmen on the take and moonshine kingpins who became folk legends. We’ll also dive into how Pappy O’Daniel’s flour empire turned him into one of the most unlikely political figures in history—riding a wave of music, marketing genius, and populist charm all the way to the U.S. Senate.
Join us as we explore the whiskey-fueled rebellion, corruption, and country music that defined Prohibition-era Texas. It’s a tale of moonshine, music, and mayhem—and you won’t want to miss it!
