The Best Storyteller In Texas Podcast

Kent Hance
  • 4.9 (246)
  • COMEDY
  • UPDATED DAILY

Host Kent Hance shares insightful, educational and often hilarious stories from his legendary life as a lawyer, a former U.S. Congressman, a university chancellor, and most notably, a native Texan. With themes ranging from leadership to politics and great friendships with some colorful characters, this podcast is an opportunity for Hance to share some of his rare, behind-the-scenes experiences and to solidify his unofficial title as The Best Storyteller in Texas.

  1. 3D AGO · BONUS

    "From Cocktail Parties to Criminal Legends: The Untold Stories Behind America's Most Wanted"

    What sparked the creation of the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list—and why did one fugitive stay on it for 32 years without ever being caught? In this episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent dives into the fascinating origins and evolution of one of America's most iconic crime-fighting tools. From a casual conversation at a cocktail party with J. Edgar Hoover to the dramatic capture of Whitey Bulger after 16 years on the run, this episode is packed with jaw-dropping stories and historical insights. You'll hear about: The birth of the Ten Most Wanted list and how a simple idea changed law enforcement forever. Victor Garena's mysterious disappearance after a $7 million armored truck heist—and why he may have been killed over the loot. Whitey Bulger's shocking hideout and the TV tip that finally brought him down. How crime trends—from bank robberies to hijackings to cybercrime—have reshaped the list over decades. Colorful anecdotes about country music legends like Waylon Jennings and Roy Clark that remind us why Kent is the ultimate Texas storyteller. Memorable quote: "If the general public sees that someone, they'll be watching for that face." — Bill Hudson, on why the list works. This episode isn't just about crime—it's about culture, history, and the quirks that make these stories unforgettable. Don't miss it! Subscribe now, leave us a review, and share this episode with anyone who loves true crime, history, or great storytelling.

    19 min
  2. You Might Also Like: Dinner’s on Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson

    3D AGO · BONUS

    You Might Also Like: Dinner’s on Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson

    Introducing Allison Janney — on feeling like a rockstar during ‘The West Wing’ and behind-the-scenes of ‘The Diplomat’ from Dinner’s on Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson. Follow the show: Dinner’s on Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson ‘Palm Royale’ star Allison Janney joins the show. Over taglionlini al limone, we get into the iconic ‘Primary Colors’ moment that led to playing CJ, how she shaped an iconic scene from ‘I, Tonya,’ playing opposite my friend Keri Russell in Netflix’s ‘The Diplomat,’ and we get some hints at what’s to come on this season of the Apple TV + series ‘Palm Royale,’ which she stars in alongside Kristen Wiig and Ricky Martin. This episode was recorded at Angelini Osteria in Los Angeles, CA.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

  3. NOV 3

    "Brandon Gill's Battle Against the Swamp"

    📌"Do you know what values your tax dollars are promoting?" In this riveting episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent sits down with Congressman Brandon Gill, a rising conservative voice representing Texas' 26th District. From his humble beginnings in Clovis, New Mexico, to graduating from Dartmouth and leading the charge in Washington, Gill shares his journey, his convictions, and the battles he's fighting on Capitol Hill. Listeners will hear how Gill went from a small-town high school class of 24 to winning a crowded congressional race with 58% of the vote—without a runoff. He opens up about his time as president of the Dartmouth Review, his connection to political scholar Dinesh D'Souza, and the viral moment that put him on the national radar: grilling NPR's CEO over controversial tweets and taxpayer-funded bias. Gill doesn't hold back as he discusses: The government shutdown and the fight over healthcare benefits for illegal immigrants His work on the Judiciary and Oversight Committees, including the new DOGE subcommittee The push to defund NPR and PBS, and the shocking programs your tax dollars may be funding His vision for conservative leadership and reclaiming fiscal responsibility Notable quote: 🗣️ "She should've been prepared. She had an army of lawyers behind her—and still couldn't defend her own tweets." This episode is packed with insight, strategy, and a behind-the-scenes look at how one freshman Congressman is shaking up Washington. Whether you're a political junkie or just love a good story, this one's worth your time. 👉 Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Kent's storytelling and Gill's candor make this a must-listen.

    38 min

  4. OCT 31 · BONUS

    "From UFOs to White Christmas Again: Kent Hance's Greatest Hits of Wit and Wisdom"

    "What would you do if a UFO picked you up and flew you across the country in under an hour?" That's just one of the unforgettable stories in this special Greatest Hits edition of Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast. This episode is packed with Kent's trademark humor, candid reflections, and legendary anecdotes—from Bobby Bare's hilarious showdown over God Bless America Again to Kent's pivotal vote on the Fair Housing Act that changed history by a single vote. You'll hear about unexpected press conference zingers, armchair philosophers at the VFW, and Kent's belief that education is the ultimate weapon against hate. Along the way, Kent shares memorable quotes like: "It's hard to hate people that you know." "I may see a flying saucer someday…but I'll be dad gum if I tell anybody." Whether you're here for the laughs, the life lessons, or the behind-the-scenes political drama, this episode delivers it all. Call to Action: Don't miss out—subscribe now, leave us a review, and share this episode with friends who love a good story. New episodes drop every Monday!

    4 min

  5. OCT 30

    "Dream No Little Dreams: Kent Hance on Focus, Truth, and the Stories That Shape Us"

    "Does doubt kill more dreams than failure?" That question sets the tone for this powerful episode of Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast, where Kent dives deep into the art of dreaming big and staying focused in a world full of distractions. From dusty tractor rides in Dimmitt, Texas to the halls of power, Kent shares personal anecdotes that reveal how visualization and perseverance can turn aspirations into reality. You'll hear timeless wisdom like his father's saying, "Hold her head up, Luke, I think she smells alfalfa," a metaphor for staying focused when temptation looms. This episode also explores: The impact of misinformation—from the Gulf of Tonkin to the digital age—and why proximity to the source matters. The decline of investigative journalism and its consequences for democracy. The internet's permanence and what young people must know about social media, judgment, and job prospects. Political campaigns and unforgettable moments, including the infamous Dukakis tank photo and Louisiana's colorful political history. Kent's candid reflections on leadership, integrity, and resilience will leave you inspired—and maybe even laughing at some of the wildest stories from the political arena. Memorable Quote: "Doubt kills more dreams than failure will." Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends. Your support helps us bring more incredible stories and insights straight to your ears.

    18 min

  6. OCT 27

    "Privileges vs. Principles: Government Shutdowns, Wild Texas Tales, and Rattlesnake Hunts"

    "What happens when a nation values its privileges above its principles?" That's the powerful question that launches this episode of The Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast—and it sets the stage for a whirlwind of stories, sharp insights, and classic Texas humor. Kent Hance takes listeners on a journey through the latest government shutdown drama, breaking down the political gridlock, budget battles, and the real-life consequences for Americans. With his trademark wit, Kent explores why compromise is inevitable and why the stakes are higher than ever as deadlines loom. But the episode doesn't stop at politics. Kent delivers a treasure trove of unforgettable stories and practical wisdom: Surprising Polls: Did you know 29% of American adults are still afraid of the dark? Kent shares hilarious takes on what keeps us up at night and what we regret about our college days. Outrageous News: From a Florida man's dinner with a prostitute to an Ohio lawmaker's crusade against marrying AI chatbots, Kent's commentary is both laugh-out-loud funny and thought-provoking. Texas Legends: Discover the "Hands on a Hard Body" contest, where contestants stand for hours to win a truck—revealing the grit and psychology of true Texans. Life Lessons: "Don't ever hire a restaurant manager that hasn't waited tables." Kent's advice is peppered with memorable quotes, including: "Don't ever hire a plumber that bites his fingernails." Unbelievable Moments: From restroom etiquette statistics to a New Jersey knife fight over a slow line, Kent's stories are as wild as they are true. Heartwarming Endings: Hear about a North Carolina couple finally taking their honeymoon after 31 years, and a Louisiana woman who saved three lives with the Heimlich maneuver. Texas Entertainment: Kent shares why a magician is the perfect party theme—and why a rattlesnake hunt might just be the wildest family reunion idea ever.   Memorable Quotes: "People that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both." — Dwight D. Eisenhower "Don't ever hire a restaurant manager that's not waiting tables." "If you get in a war, you go all out to win and then you have a complete surrender. But that has fallen by the wayside." Call to Action: Love true Texas storytelling, political insight with a twist, and tales you won't hear anywhere else? Subscribe now! Leave a review and share this episode with friends who appreciate a good laugh and a dose of wisdom. Your support keeps the stories coming!

    18 min

  7. OCT 24 · BONUS

    "Texas Legends & Laughs: The Greatest Hits of Kent Hance's Best Stories"

    "What do a CEO, a peg-legged fire chief, and a political consultant with ten ideas a day have in common?" They're all unforgettable characters in this special "Greatest Hits" episode of Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast. This episode brings together the most beloved stories and interviews from the past four years, featuring Kent Hance's signature wit and wisdom. You'll hear highlights from his conversation with longtime friend Ed Whitacre, former CEO of AT&T and General Motors, as they reminisce about loyalty, business, and the importance of driving a Cadillac. Kent shares lessons from legendary Southwest Airlines founder Herb Kelleher, whose hands-on approach turned baggage claims into profit. Listeners will laugh at the tale of Big John Johnson and the mysterious closet mirror, and marvel at the resilience of a decorated World War II veteran and volunteer fire chief with a wooden peg leg—whose run-in with a reckless driver led to one of the episode's most memorable punchlines: "Ruben, you wanna go to the sawmill or the emergency room?" Kent also pulls back the curtain on the world of political consulting, recounting his experiences with Dick Morris, whose daily barrage of ideas could make or break a career. From clever car negotiations to the value of facts in business, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and the kind of Texas storytelling that keeps listeners coming back. Don't miss this celebration of Kent Hance's greatest hits—where every story is a testament to the colorful characters and life lessons that define Texas. Notable Quotes & Moments "If you want to loan us money, you buy our cars." "If you don't have all the facts, you can't make good decisions." "Ruben, you wanna go to the sawmill or the emergency room?" "Every day he had 10 new ideas, and you had to listen to him. Four get you elected, four get you defeated, one to ruin your career, and one to get you indicted." Call to Action Enjoyed these greatest hits? Subscribe to Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast, leave a review, and share your favorite episode with friends. New stories drop every Monday—don't miss out!

    8 min

  8. OCT 23

    "From Dumpster to Destiny: The Unstoppable Journey of Night Train Lane"

    Episode Description "What does it take to turn heartbreak into history?" That's the question at the heart of this unforgettable episode of Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast. Kent Hance dives deep into the remarkable life of Dick "Night Train" Lane—a football legend whose story begins with abandonment as a newborn in Austin, Texas, and ends with an NFL record that still stands over 70 years later. Lane's journey is one of resilience, grit, and the power of believing in yourself when no one else will. Listeners are treated to vivid tales of Lane's early days at Anderson High School, his time in the Army, and his serendipitous entry into professional football—where a simple bus ride and a bold request changed his life forever. Kent shares how Lane's nickname was born, recounting the legendary moment when "Night Train derails Choo-Choo Justice" became a headline, marking Lane's arrival as a force in the NFL. The episode explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and the changing landscape of sports, highlighting Lane's relationships with fellow players like Cloyce Box and Bobby Lane. Kent's storytelling brings to life memorable moments, such as Lane's dice-shooting prowess and his philosophy: "Sevens or elevens are gonna come back up again sometime"—a testament to his belief that good luck always returns. Notable quotes and moments include: "He was born here in Austin and some people off of East 12th Street, heard him crying. And he had been wrapped in some newspapers and put in a dumpster." "Night Train Lane derails Choo-Choo Justice." "Sevens or elevens are gonna come back up. Which, he's talking about good luck or bad luck. It's gonna come back up. One way or the other." Kent also reflects on Lane's impact off the field, from his work with underprivileged youth in Detroit to his trailblazing role in advertising, and calls for Austin to honor one of its greatest citizens. Don't miss this powerful episode that celebrates the enduring spirit of Night Train Lane—a man who overcame every obstacle to become a legend. Call to Action If you're inspired by stories of resilience and triumph, subscribe to Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast. Leave a review, share this episode with friends, and help spread the legacy of Night Train Lane. Your support keeps these incredible Texas stories alive!

    17 min
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4.9
out of 5
246 Ratings

About

Host Kent Hance shares insightful, educational and often hilarious stories from his legendary life as a lawyer, a former U.S. Congressman, a university chancellor, and most notably, a native Texan. With themes ranging from leadership to politics and great friendships with some colorful characters, this podcast is an opportunity for Hance to share some of his rare, behind-the-scenes experiences and to solidify his unofficial title as The Best Storyteller in Texas.

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