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© Diann Bayes
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I’m Diann, a proud fifth-generation Texan with a passion for exploring every corner of the Lone Star State. I’ve visited all 254 counties (yes, really!) and even drove the entire Texas perimeter in 2020. Join me as I share my favorite places, unforgettable adventures, and the fascinating people I meet along the way. This podcast is all about celebrating Texas heritage, big flavors, big stories, and the endless roads that make this state legendary. Buckle up—let’s hit the road, Texas style!
29 Episodes
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Join Diann Bayes, Founder and #1 Quester at How Big Is Texas, in Garland, Texas, to discover why the city is called the Cowboy Hat Capital of Texas, featuring the biggest cowboy hat and an on-street interview with the cultural arts director.
Hear the history from Mexican vaqueros to John B. Stetson, and learn about local manufacturers like Hatco, Dorfman Milano, and Master Hatters that make millions of hats a year.
Explore photo spots, local heritage, and how Garland’s working hats have served everyone from ranchers to presidents and country stars.
This episode is sponsored by Visit Garland.
Join Diann Bayes, founder of How Big Is Texas, as she recaps her 2025 adventures across the Lone Star State. From completing a quest to visit all 254 Texas counties and exploring state parks to seaside getaways in Rockport, this episode highlights the best places, foods, and festivals she discovered.
Hear about standout moments like the legendary chicken-fried steak at Mary’s Cafe in Strawn, a chocolate tasting in Cleburne, the Big Tree at Goose Island State Park, the Heritage Syrup Festival in Henderson, and Diann’s ongoing travel goals for the year ahead.
Host Diann Bayes of How Big is Texas shares warm memories of Texas Thanksgiving traditions, family recipes, and classic holiday dishes—from cornbread dressing and questionable salads to pecan pie and cranberry sauce.
She reflects on the colors, flavors, and quirks of Texas holiday tables, recounts nostalgic family anecdotes, and invites listeners to celebrate their own seasonal favorites.
Host Diann Bayes celebrates completing her quest to visit all 254 Texas counties after previously driving the 3,331-mile perimeter of the state. She recalls road trips, food trails, mispronounced towns, and Texas Heritage Trail explorations that shaped her journey.
Now tracking state parks with a scratch-off map (75 of 89 visited), Diann reflects on living life fully, shares inspiration to "live your dash," and invites listeners to join her in more Lone Star adventures.
Join Diann Bayes as she shares her favorite Fall adventures, highlighting the best seasonal sights and activities across the state — from East Texas foliage and Bigfoot lore to Panhandle sunsets, Hill Country drives, Gulf Coast beaches, and the Big Bend’s wide-open solitude.
Discover fall festivals, birding hotspots, chili cook-offs, harvest events, and local food traditions, plus tips for planning the perfect Texas road trip this autumn.
#1 Quester at How Big Is Texas, Diann Bayes shares her memories of growing up across East Texas and the Panhandle, family holiday traditions, and the flavors of small-town life.
She recounts her 3,300-mile perimeter road trip, discovering the Texas mountains, winter birding in the Rio Grande Valley, visits to the Alamo, and why Texas will always feel like home. Big miles. Big tastes. Big adventures.
Join Diann Bayes as she takes you on a captivating journey through the Texas Panhandle, unraveling the untold stories and hidden gems of this often-overlooked region. From the awe-inspiring Palo Duro Canyon to the charm of Route 66, discover the rich history and unique attractions that make the Panhandle a must-visit destination. Delight in detailed anecdotes, quirky local legends, and learn why Diann holds such a passion for this vast and diverse landscape.
Join Diann Bayes on an epic journey through Texas as she explores the massive and iconic Buc-ee's convenience stores. With a unique blend of big miles, big tastes, and big adventures, Diann invites listeners to experience the magic of Buc-ee's, from its humble beginnings in Lake Jackson to its colossal 75,000 square-foot location in Luling.
This episode takes you along for the ride as Diann and her friend Darla embark on a quest to visit every Buc-ee's in Texas over three and a half days, sampling a variety of mouth-watering foods and discovering the extensive selection of gifts and goods available at these over-the-top fun factories.
Whether you're a Buc-ee's novice or a seasoned fan, you'll learn why this Texas treasure is a must-visit destination, promising clean facilities, friendly staff, and an unforgettable shopping experience.
In this special episode of "How Big Is Texas," Diann Bayes focuses on the aftermath of the devastating floods that swept through Texas over the July 4th weekend. As homes and communities were ravaged by rising waters, Texans banded together in a spirit of resilience and support for those affected.
Bayes shares personal accounts of past flooding events, illustrating the recurrent nature of such disasters in Central Texas. While highlighting the heroism and courage of rescue teams, she encourages listeners from near and far to contribute to recovery efforts.
This episode serves as a somber reminder of nature's power and the humanity that shines through in times of crisis.
Join Diann Bayes, the adventurous founder of 'How Big is Texas,' as she takes you on a journey through the captivating Gulf Coast of Texas. In this episode, explore the scenic beauty of the coastline, from the sandy beaches of Rockport and Port Aransas to the historical charm of Galveston Island. Discover the unique wildlife, including birdwatching opportunities and sea turtle hatchling releases.
Diann shares her personal experiences and favorite spots along the coast, offering tips on where to relish the best seafood and enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Whether you're an avid traveler or a curious listener, this episode promises a delightful and insightful look into the wonders of the Lone Star State's coastal treasures.
Join Diann Bayes, the founder of 'How Big is Texas', as she takes you on a captivating journey through the vastness of the Lone Star State, celebrating the five-year anniversary of her first trip on her quest to answer the question, How Big Is Texas. In this episode, Diann shares the story of a remarkable nine-day road trip where she and two friends drove around the state's perimeter, covering more than 3,300 miles and discovering the unique wonders, cities, towns, and landscapes that make Texas truly special.
From exploring historic sites like the Judge Roy Bean Center to getting a taste of Texas hospitality in the many small towns along the way and enjoying the natural beauty of Big Bend National Park, this episode is a delightful recount of Texas's size and diversity. Diann's infectious passion for Texas invites you to relive her adventure and perhaps inspires you to embark on your own Texas quest.
In this special Mother's Day episode, Diann Bayes, founder of How Big is Texas, takes us on a heartfelt journey through the cherished memories of her Grandma Barney Althea Thompson Stone. Through tales of family recipes, homemade quilts, and timeless wisdom, Diann honors the legacy and warmth of her grandma, a Texas native, whose influence is still felt decades after her passing.
As Diann shares anecdotes of her grandma's love for cooking, her talents in quilting and painting, and her favorite sayings, listeners are invited to experience the deep connections and family traditions that shaped her life. Join Diann in celebrating the joy, laughter, and enduring influence of grandmothers everywhere, as she reflects on the lessons and love passed down across generations.
Join Diann Bayes, the founder of 'How Big is Texas,' as she takes you on an exciting journey through Brewster County, the largest county in Texas. In this episode, Diann shares her love for Texas and highlights her experiences exploring this spectacular region. Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Big Bend National Park, the charming towns of Alpine and Terlingua, and the quirky local culture, including the unique story of a beer-drinking goat, the Mayor of Lajitas. Diann paints a vivid picture of why this corner of Texas is a must-visit. Tune in and uncover the fascinating history and natural beauty of Brewster County.
Join Diann Bayes, founder of 'How Big is Texas,' as she takes you on an enchanting journey through the beautiful landscapes and vibrant stories of Texas.
In this episode, Diann shares heartfelt anecdotes, including an unforgettable encounter with the legendary Willie Nelson.
Delve into the story of honoring Willie Nelson with the 'Hill County Hall of Fame Citizen of the Year Award' amidst the quirky backdrop of a former Walmart and how it all came to be.
Join Diann Bayes, founder and #1 Quester, at How Big is Texas, as she takes you on a journey through the vibrant landscapes and agricultural wonders of the Lone Star State. From the blossoming azaleas and wisteria in East Texas to the sprawling produce across various regions, discover the diversity and richness of Texas farming. Diann shares personal anecdotes and insights from her travels, offering a glimpse into the local traditions and flavors that define Texas.
Learn about the thriving peach orchards, strawberry fields, and unique plants like agave and nopales that flourish in the varied climates of the state. Dive into the cultural significance of farming in Texas and celebrate the hardworking individuals who cultivate these bountiful lands.
Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a food lover, or simply curious about Texas, this episode invites you to appreciate the natural beauty and agricultural heritage that make Texas truly remarkable.
Explore the rich culinary landscape of Texas as Diann Bayes, founder and #1 Quester at How Big is Texas, dives into a spirited debate about the state's most iconic foods. From kolaches to chicken fried steak, this episode examines the dishes that define Texas and the passionate opinions they inspire. Travel through the diverse regions of Texas, uncovering the stories behind beloved foods and inviting listeners to reflect on their own culinary experiences in the Lone Star State.
It’s been a minute since I recorded a podcast so I’m reintroducing why I love the Lone Star State and my favorite road trips and stories along the way.
In which I share some holiday life lessons involving gingerbread, icing, and a plethora of bad decisions.
I share my favorite beach towns and cities in Texas.
Adventures and challenges on my 58th birthday weekend traveling the roads of Texas.
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