Hi! I grew up in a one-stoplight town in rural Nebraska and my whole family still lives there with three churches, a bar, and a courthouse. I left because I like lots of people and taller buildings, and I don't like cold weather. On those rare days in Texas when it gets snowy and icy, you'll find me inside Googling beach vacations. I don't plan to leave Texas now that I've been here for most of my adult life because the barbecue and fajitas are just way too addictive. I've worked in radio from the moment I graduated from college at the University of Nebraska, and besides getting the hang out with cool people like you every day, I love sports, great restaurants, self improvement, and meeting new people. I love all movies starring Melissa McCarthy or Julia Roberts, and all TV shows with home improvements or food in them. You'll probably hear me talk about my three daughters on the air, along with the challenges of being a single mom. I'm on several of the dating apps, because trying to meet someone in person these days is way too creepy.
Jen Austin
5 Reasons Why Little League is Great for Kids
Spring baseball and softball practices are underway and the games will start soon for kids across East Texas. For many parents like me that means lots of equipment shopping, meals on the go because practices always seem to be at dinner time, and usually a really bad case of bleacher butt. But it's so much fun. There are at least 5 reasons why little league is awesome, and I bet you can add to the list.
Celebrate Oreo Day March 6th With an Easy Treat
Some of those national and world holidays get a little weird, but this one we can totally get behind! Today (March 6th) is World Oreo Day, and I'm celebrating with Oreo Balls. This recipe is the easiest thing you'll ever make, and it's awesome. And addictive.
Craftsman Style Homes Are In High Demand in East Texas
When you're house shopping, do you pick a favorite based on the way the house looks from the outside, or is it all about the kitchen and living areas inside? It turns out that curb appeal is pulling people in right now, and front porches are top draws.
‘Thoughts and Prayers’ are better with action
In the wake of any tragic event, it seems pretty instinctive for people to say they're sending "thoughts and prayers" to victims. But as some of the survivors of the recent Florida school shooting eluded to, that's not cuttin' it anymore. It's time to do more.
5 Reasons Why the Library is Awesome
If you're not using the Kurth Memorial Library in Lufkin, or the Nacogdoches Public Library on a regular basis you're totally missing out. It's a great resource and it's free! Check out these 5 reasons why the library is awesome.
Chip and Joanna Gaines Open Their First Texas Restaurant
Their "Fixer Upper" show may be ending on HGTV, but Chip and Joanna Gaines have plenty of other projects in the works. One of those is a brand new restaurant that just opened this week in Waco. Road trip!
Texas Drivers With Unpaid Tolls Get a Break Starting March 1
If you've piled up some unpaid tolls from traveling around Houston, Dallas, or on Texas 49, there's a little financial break coming March 1st thanks to a new state law. But you can still end up in court if you don't pay up!
Vote for the Best Fast Food Restaurant in East Texas
One fast food taco restaurant is quickly rising through the ranks, and we want to know if it's one of your go-to spots when you get a fast food craving. Vote now from our list, or feel free to write in your own favorite fast food joint.
A Baby Changes Everything for the Rangers’ Elvis Andrus
Texas Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus became a father last summer, so the off season has been full of spit up, late-night feedings, and smelly diaper changes. Glamorous! But Rangers fans can be excited knowing that Elvis expects fatherhood to make him an even better player this season.
Of all the States, Texas Slang Wins
We've got some good slang in Texas, y'all. In fact, "Y'all" combined with another pretty amazing made-up contraction helps Texas beat all other states for the best slang in the US.
How to Get Free Pancakes on National Pancake Day
IHOP is doing it again. Free pancakes! They'll give us a free buttermilk short stack on National Pancake Day, which is coming up next week. And they just ask that we do one thing in return.
Make Whataburger Fries at Home With This Secret Ingredient
What is it about fast food french fries that makes them so darned addictive? One chef may have stumbled up on the secret ingredient, and he's spilling the beans so we can all try this at home. The magical concoction also causes us to lick our fingers between bites. See, we can't help it!