Tara Holley's first on-air experience was at age 3 on a jingle in Temple, Texas. Radio has been a part of her life ever since. She received a BA in Theatre and Communication in 2004 from McMurry University. Her professional journey includes theatre, Neilsen media research, advertising and marketing, creative writing and scripting, and more. However, radio has always been her first professional love. Tara writes about all things East Texas -- including fantastic food, Texas legends and lore, and lifestyle topics. She loves conversation, comedy, coffee, animals, philosophy, and the arts. Her basic life philosophy can be summed up in the words of the great Bill and Ted: “Be Excellent to Each Other.” Tara received the Mayor's ROSE (Recognition of Service and Excellence) Award in 2021 and the President's Club Award for Townsquare Media Tyler in 2021 for Contributor of the Year. She served on the Heart of Tyler Board of Directors from 2017-2022, was a 2-year Chair for the Downtown Tyler Film Festival, and served on the Tyler Civic Theatre Board for several years, as well. She is currently on the Tyler Music Friendly Advisory Board.'
Tara Holley
BANNED: You’re Not Allowed to Eat These 15 Foods in Texas
Discover the surprising truth about banned foods in Texas and how these restrictions impact public safety.
Jobs in Texas That Can Make You Richer Than You Might Think
Education vs. Entrepreneurship: Explore alternate paths to wealth beyond a college degree when applicable.
10 ‘Nice’ Things You Do That Fast Food Workers Actually HATE
We're not talking about things that most of us would consider quite rude behaviors at our East Texas fast food establishments, such as throwing your garbage on the floor, not trying to clean up after yourself, or not keeping your eye on your kids if they are running wild around the restaurant.
After delving into the details, I have to say that as someone who worked in fast food as a young person, including the drive-thru, some of these are SPOT ON.
What? Did You Know Some People in Texas Do THIS to Their Ground Beef?
Some Texans do it because they see their parents or grandparents do it. Some people say they want to wash away some of the fat--but does this process even help with such a thing?
Other Texans say it is completely unnecessary, not to mention, possibly unwise to rinse ground beef after (or before) cooking it.
Shocking: Top 10 Most Stolen Cars In Texas Revealed – Are You Safe?
Be cautious! Thousands of vehicles are stolen in Texas annually. Don't be a victim!
Look at Which Country Music Icon Was Spotted at a Favorite East Texas Restaurant!
Can you imagine just going in for your shift at Circle M Crawfish in Big Sandy only to discover that one of the most iconic country stars was one of your customers?
Beware of the Most Dangerous Scorpions You Can Find in Texas Right Now
We have scorpions in East Texas and all over the Lone Star State. There are around 18 different species of these denizens of Hell, I mean scorpions, in Texas. But some are much more common than others.
We Love Our Fall Scented Candles in Texas–But is it True They are Toxic?
I was heartbroken when I ran across an article touting warnings about our beloved candles. Is your pumpkin spice candle wreaking physical havoc on you?
It’s (Almost) Back! Fan Favorite Returns Soon to Texas Starbucks–Plus a NEW Drink
This will be the 21st year the PSL has been a fan favorite on Starbucks' menu. Interestingly, over the last several years they've been getting it on the menu earlier and earlier due to popular demand. (Except for 2022, for some reason.)
Scary or Fascinating? The 5 Most Haunted Towns Here in Texas
I remember hearing stories about certain places in Texas being haunted, but never entire TOWNS. Until recently, that is.
Buc-ee’s, Baby! 12 Things You Didn’t Know About This Texas Fan Favorite
We've got much to discuss, my friend. From beaver nuggets and brisket to bathrooms and beverages--let's get started.
Make Sure You Keep a Tea Bag in Your Car if You Live in a Hot Place Like Texas
Despite the odd notion that Texas car owners should keep a tea bag in their cars, once we delve into it more it makes sense. And no, it's not so we'll have for on hand if we need a quick 'pick-me-up' in the afternoon.