There is a podcast in Wise County Texas that I find entertaining and informative. It’s called “Whiskey Bros: Around the Table”. Which accurately describes the podcast’s simple format; good friends and neighbors talking. Subject matter is all over the map. Expect inquisitive “off the cuff” rabbit-hole exploration, old fashion horse sense, and unapologetic raw humor. Their podcasts with local Wise County elected officials is what got my attention. The information gleaned from these interviews is well worth your time. Below are links to some podcasts that I vote as being most relevant (government wise) to residents in our area. Links are newest to oldest.
#99 Save the water, save the world.
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“In this episode, the Whiskey Bros sit down with local officials to talk about the one thing flowing less than our whiskey—North Texas water!”
(Discussion topics are Wise County growth, water challenges, and the Wise County Mayor’s Coalition efforts to establish a Wise County regional water district. Guests are Paradise Mayor Amanda Black, New Fairview City Administrator John Cabrales, and Boyd Mayor Rodney Holmes.)
“From overworked aquifers to futuristic water-saving tech, we dive deep (pun intended) into the real challenges hitting Wise and Parker counties. Whether it’s water reclamation, aquifer recharge, or how your sprinkler system might be sipping the last drops from the Trinity Aquifer, this conversation hits harder than a dry Texas summer. Tune in to find out how you can help quench the region’s thirst while keeping your glass full!”
#79 Mailman with a Gun – What does a Constable do in the State of Texas?
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“Probably our most outgoing and dynamic episode so far featuring Constable Charles Applewhite and his Deputy Constable, Barney. It’s more than just educational. This episode covers the gamut of all emotions. Laugh and cry when you hear personal testimonies from experiences on the job. Also find out a little more about the sneaky TABC.”
#78 Making a Difference – Get to know a County Sheriff in Texas. Featuring Sheriff, Lane Akin.
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“The Point” by Lane Akin
“Sheriff Lane has a decorated and fulfilling career history of being a Texas Lawman. Before becoming sheriff, Lane served in multiple law enforcement positions such as Texas State Trooper, Texas Ranger and covered the entire state with missions related to his job. Hear his story including being security detail for former President George W Bush, Waco and get to know what the role of County Sheriff means to your community.”
# 76 What does a City Mayor Do? Featuring City Mayor – Amanda Black
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“It’s a great day to talk about the elected position of city mayor. Paradise city mayor, Amanda Black joins us for just that. Especially special guest mayor pro-tem, Cody Anderson aka, Ghost Bro, Ninja Bro, (CoCo) chimes in a tiny bit. Join us for the day to day duties of the city mayor and learn about the official capacity of what a city mayor does in the biggest and most important city leadership position.”
#75 What you need to know about your local city council.
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“The episode featuring Eddie W Allen is now available and we had a great time chatting with him! In addition to Eddies personal background, you’ll find out about the duties of your local city council including: What is the primary function of the city council? How do individual opinions sway objectives and overall goals? What’s the best way to engage people on a local level and keep their focus? Could most towns people even name their mayor? How to engage and involve youth for upcoming leadership, current city projects, infrastructure projects, population growth, and housing needs.”
#74 What does a County Commissioner Do?
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“We are continuing our series on understanding what elected officials do in their positions. This time we’re chatting with Kevin Burns, a Wise County Commissioner for over 20 years and still going strong. If you’ve ever asked “What does a county commissioner do?” , this is where you’ll find out. Bonus parts include trying home-brews from Miguel Loza and pairing homemade empanadas with fine whiskey!”
#72 What does a County Judge Do? – County Judge J.D. Clark.
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Apple Music “Wild Things” by Judson Clark
Spotify “Wild Things” by Judson Clark
“J.D. Clark is a 3 time elected County Judge, Teacher, former Town Mayor, Historian and Musician. Not surprisingly he’s got a story to tell and also fills us in on what his duties are as an elected County Judge. We’re also talking county courthouse restoration and what might become of an old historical museum.”