The Drag: Stories

The Drag: Stories showcases excellent audio storytelling from students at the University of Texas at Austin.

The power of the vinyl record 04/18/2025

The power of the vinyl record Erin Aaliyah examines how vinyl continues to make its mark. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/35255790

A day in the life of a Longhorn Band member 04/04/2025

A day in the life of a Longhorn Band member You know the songs, beats and lyrics by heart, but what goes into making a Texas Longhorn Band tune so memorable? I followed a band member around for a day to get the scoop and learned a lot about grit, determination and leaving a legacy. This episode was hosted, written and produced by Hasina Shah. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/35255775

A fitness reset: Breaking myths and building confidence 03/21/2025

A fitness reset: Breaking myths and building confidence Have you ever walked into a gym and felt completely out of place? You're not alone. In this episode, we explore the overwhelming world of fitness with expert insights, personal stories and a fresh perspective on building a routine that works for you. Hear from CieCie Leonard, Assistant Director of Fitness and Wellness at UT Rec Sports, as she busts fitness myths, breaks down trends like Pilates and strength training and shares practical tips for injury prevention and sustainable movement. Also, listen to real-life stories and learn how to embrace fitness without fear. This episode was hosted, produced and written by Gabriella Gonzales. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/35255735

Trailblazing: The story of Austin's first female firefighter 03/07/2025

Trailblazing: The story of Austin's first female firefighter When the Austin Fire Department announced in 1975 that they were going to start hiring women, Lucy Hough, a recent graduate from the University of Texas, decided she was going to become a firefighter. Almost 50 years later, Lucy reflects on her time as the first female firefighter in Austin, Texas. This episode was produced and hosted by Garrett Bohannan. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/35255705

Austin's very real Neverland 02/21/2025

Austin's very real Neverland This podcast episode dives into the story of an Austin icon: Peter Pan Mini Golf. For 76 years, this beloved miniature golf course has created special memories for locals and visitors. Listen as Jack Friedman uncovers the secrets behind its lasting charm and how it's been placed in the heart of the city's history. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/35255690

Introducing: A new season of 'Darkness' 02/01/2025

Introducing: A new season of 'Darkness' On the evening of April 16, 1960, a young woman from McAllen, Texas named Irene Garza went to church for confession. She never returned home. A week later, her body was found floating in a canal. Decades would pass before the priest who murdered Irene was brought to justice in a historic case for the church and the Rio Grande Valley. In Season five of “Darkness,” host Talisa Treviño details the decades-long fight for justice for Irene. Hear from the investigators who tackled the case and Irene’s loved ones, as well as survivors of abuse in the Catholic church. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/35069640

Indie bookstores: Dead or alive? 01/10/2025

Indie bookstores: Dead or alive? Most people don’t think twice before buying their books from Amazon or Barnes and Noble, so how do local bookstores stay open? Are they struggling to make ends meet or are they thriving against the odds? /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32800137

Oprah vs. Amarillo: The beef battle 12/27/2024

Oprah vs. Amarillo: The beef battle Did you know Oprah had beef (pun intended) with the beef industry in the '90s? Katelyn Sadd takes you on a journey of the great beef battle of 1997. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32800052

A glimpse into the world of college radio 12/13/2024

A glimpse into the world of college radio In this episode, get a glimpse into the unique world of college radio stations with Fernanda Loeza, aka DJ Grafiter. You'll learn how college radio stations differ from other radio stations and how they impact alumni at their respective universities. Not only will you hear from DJ Grafiter, but you'll also get to listen to experiences from other DJs across the United States, from Austin, New York, and North Carolina. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32799892

Deep in the Junk of Texas 11/29/2024

Deep in the Junk of Texas Visit and meet South Austin's local legend, the Junk King, as we explore his 60-ton masterpiece: The Cathedral of Junk. In this episode, host Matt Kut takes you on a journey through this unbelievable creation, where every corner tells a story. From colorful sections of painted debris, to towering sculptures that defy gravity, discover the magic of this eclectic sanctuary. Featuring exclusive interviews with creator Vince Hanneman himself and special guest Bella Kent, who shares her nostalgic connection to this iconic landmark. Join us as we uncover the secrets and charms of the Cathedral of Junk, a true testament to Austin's eccentric spirit. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32799777

The Yoakum Railroad 11/15/2024

The Yoakum Railroad Join Bowen Jacobs on a journey through his hometown of Yoakum, Texas, as he looks at the impact of the railroad (and other factors) that led to the decline of the town, as well as similar stories from towns nearby. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32799667

We Luv Physical Media 11/01/2024

We Luv Physical Media UT Austin film student Kaitlyn Gomez delves into the seemingly soon to be lost art of physical media, interviewing students and the co-founder of Austin based non-profit DVD rental store, We Luv Video. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32799547

What it's like for the men who work at an all-girls dorm 10/18/2024

What it's like for the men who work at an all-girls dorm Randy Duncan takes a step inside Scottish Rite Dormitory, an all-girls University of Texas off-campus dorm where most of the employees are male students. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32799497

Hog wild 10/04/2024

Hog wild Patrick Dionne takes a look at the history and complexities behind the growing number of wild hogs throughout Texas and the broader United States. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32799442

Keep Austin Weird? 09/20/2024

Keep Austin Weird? Historical businesses that culturally contribute to the identity of Austin are closing down seemingly out of nowhere. Follow as Olivia Carter tries to take a look at the missing parts of the story. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32799397

Data Dives: Fraternity culture at the University of Texas at Austin 09/06/2024

Data Dives: Fraternity culture at the University of Texas at Austin In the third episode of a series about Greek life at UT, Data Dives host Carolyn Parmer discusses fraternities on the Interfraternity Council. These 22 chapters make up just over one-third of students in Greek life and deal with hazing, sexual assault, homophobia and more. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32484077

Data Dives: Sorority culture at the University of Texas at Austin 08/23/2024

Data Dives: Sorority culture at the University of Texas at Austin In the second episode of a series about Greek life at UT, Data Dives host Carolyn Parmer sheds light on some of the large issues within the community of sororities on the University Panhellenic Council. Members of these 13 chapters face low ethnic and LGBTQ+ diversity, a ranking system, negative effects on mental health and more. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32484052

Data Dives: All about Greek life at the University of Texas at Austin 08/09/2024

Data Dives: All about Greek life at the University of Texas at Austin In this pilot episode of a series about Greek life at UT, Data Dives host Carolyn Parmer gives an overview of the university’s sororities and fraternities with a focus on the two largest governing bodies: the University Panhellenic Council and the Interfraternity Council. Whether you can name every Greek organization or remain baffled by this institution, this episode will help you understand what it’s like to join it. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/32484022

Moving together: How fitness studios foster community 08/02/2024

Moving together: How fitness studios foster community Boutique studios and fitness classes are popular, but what do they actually have to offer? Sofia Vargas Karam sits down with Lindsay Howe Ruth and Laura Gilhman-Jones to explore the benefits of fitness classes, how they became instructors and most importantly, how they've built a community from it. They'll talk about how fitness isn't just about sweating it out; it's about making real connections, feeling empowered, and finding some lifelong friends along the way. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667418

Milkweed and monarch migration 07/19/2024

Milkweed and monarch migration If you’ve ever sat through an elementary science class, you’ve probably learned about monarch butterflies – their obsession with milkweed, stages of metamorphosis, and annual migration. But how does this migration actually play out in today’s industrialized world? Host Sara Kinney walks through all the struggles these little creatures face on their annual journey southward and talks to one group, called , that is currently trying to help them on their path. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667403

So...what's the deal with pigeons? 07/05/2024

So...what's the deal with pigeons? Pigeons. They’re everywhere. Surely they can’t be endangered. Right? Right…? Delve into the feathery world of our neighborhood fowl with Olivia Dilley as she breaks down everything about the wild world of pigeons and why we should care about them. In this episode, we hear from Joe Wood, co-chair of the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Pigeon and Dove Specialist Group, as he tells us about the wonders of pigeons and the things that threaten their very existence. We’ll also hear from Hayley Hudnall, executive director of Austin Wildlife Rescue in Austin, TX, as she tells us about the woes of pigeons in America and why people dislike the “rats of the bird world.” /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667388

How a unique German dialect is staying alive in Texas 07/05/2024

How a unique German dialect is staying alive in Texas For generations, German descendants have carried on their traditional language and cultural practices. But as the last speakers die out, so does the language. In this episode, Molly-Jo Tilton explores the various groups keeping these traditions alive. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667363

Is college really just like the movies? 06/21/2024

Is college really just like the movies? Before entering college, expectations and a vision of college life are conveyed through interactions with movies and the media. But what happens when those expectations aren’t met and things go differently? Miriam Belmonte tells her story, along with Guido Peluffo’s, about a side of college that goes untold. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667308

How a small plot can bring people together 06/07/2024

How a small plot can bring people together In growing cities like Austin, Texas, neighborhood development is a hot topic of conversation — new high-rise apartments and retail options appear in what feels like each week. In the midst of this urban growth, a less concrete addition to neighborhoods is gaining popularity: community gardens. Shared gardening can foster community, promote sustainability and provide emotional support, and many garden enthusiasts are advocating for more of these spaces in growing cities. In this episode from Sarah Brager, you’ll hear from college students who eagerly await workdays in their community garden, and a longtime Austin resident who’s been cultivating her plot for decades, to learn why they chose to get their hands dirty each week. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667278

Finding community in cultural grocery stores 05/24/2024

Finding community in cultural grocery stores Bring your grocery bags and roll in the shopping carts because in this episode, we’ll be delving into how international grocery stores can serve as safe havens for those who seek out cultural communities. From the experiences of a young girl transitioning from the Philippines to America because of political tensions, to a Japanese woman moving to San Diego for her love of the ocean, each journey tells a story of longing, love, acceptance and community. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667263

Data Dives: What it’s like to seek mental health help at the University of Texas at Austin 05/10/2024

Data Dives: What it’s like to seek mental health help at the University of Texas at Austin In this special episode from Data Dives, host Carolyn Parmer explains the existing mental health services and barriers to these resources at UT. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/31215727

The Drag says goodbye to the class of 2024 05/09/2024

The Drag says goodbye to the class of 2024 Four of The Drag's graduating seniors -- Leni Steinhardt, Tamara Rodriguez, Mackenzie Matwick and Heather Stewart -- share their goodbyes to The Drag and UT. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/31215712

This is your brain on kratom 04/26/2024

This is your brain on kratom Health and wellness company Botanic Tonics has become one of the largest brands to specialize in kratom-based drinks with their popular Feel Free tonic. However, Feel Free tonics are marketed and labeled as “sober-alternatives”. Since 2020, Botanic Tonics has grown to become the official sponsor of multiple college sports teams, including The University of Texas at Austin. In this episode, Hope Gullatt looks into the misleading promotion of kratom and its long lasting effects on the brain. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667208

More than just an object 04/12/2024

More than just an object Matthew Held, Kaiya Little, and Ella Barnes all have something in common: Inanimate objects. They’ve all got a special connection to their possessions. For Matt, it’s hunting knives. For Kaiya, it’s a dream catcher. Ella, who hosts this episode, explores these connections we have with inanimate objects – inspired by her love for her grandparents’ dark side of the moon vinyl. /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667063

Highways suck. What can we do about it? 03/29/2024

Highways suck. What can we do about it? Being stuck on a highway during rush hour traffic is no one’s idea of a good time, but adding more lanes should help. Right? is currently expanding the section of I-35 that runs through Austin, TX, which might sound like a good thing. But adding more lanes actually just makes traffic worse over time. So why do we keep doing it? And what’s the alternative? Aislyn Gaddis talks to a and two local advocacy groups — and — to try and find out. SHOW NOTES /episode/index/show/ca77f3b8-d4d4-4fb4-866b-efc53e4c121c/id/29667043

The Drag: Stories

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