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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Kent Hance Podcasts
The People of Texas podcast, hosted by TPPF Distinguished Senior Fellow Sherry Sylvester, explores the stories of modern-day Texas icons.
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šļø āAssassination, Adversity, and the American Spirit: Kent Hance Reflects on a Tumultuous Weekā
22:52
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22:52šļø āAssassination, Adversity, and the American Spirit: Kent Hance Reflects on a Tumultuous Weekā š Episode Description: āWhat happens to a movement when its leader is taken too soon?ā In this gripping episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent unpacks a week filled with tragedy, reflection, and unexpected humor. From the shocking asā¦
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āDonāt Hang Up on the First Lady: Politics, Little League, and Bo-Weevilsā
25:25
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25:25šāWhat happens when you hang up on the First Ladyātwice?ā In this unforgettable episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent dives into a whirlwind of stories that span politics, parenting, and peculiar medical diagnoses. From the halls of Congress to Little League fields in small-town Texas, Kent shares heartfelt tributes, hilarious ā¦
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āFrom Truman to Trump: Congressman Roger Williamsā Unforgettable Presidential Handshakes and Texas Talesā
29:17
29:17
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29:17āWhat do Harry Truman, Ronald Reagan, and Donald Trump all have in common?ā Theyāve all shaken hands with Congressman Roger Williamsāand each handshake comes with a story you wonāt forget. In this captivating episode of Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent sits down with longtime friend and Texas Congressman Roger Williams, a man whose lā¦
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šļø āStone Cold Values & Southern Grit: Senator Katie Brittās Journey from Lower Alabama to Capitol Hillā
39:13
39:13
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39:13š āWhat do you do when youāre polling at 2% and your opponent has a presidential endorsement?ā If you're Katie Britt, you pray, you fight, and you win. In this inspiring and deeply personal episode of Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent welcomes U.S. Senator Katie Britt of Alabama, the youngest Republican in the Senate and a rising starā¦
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āChainsaws, Pit Bulls & Parade Floats: Kent Hance Unleashed at the Salesmanship Clubā
33:28
33:28
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33:28Hereās a full episode package for Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, based on the transcript from Trans Hance Salesmanship Speech.txt: š£ What do a chainsaw-wielding presidential candidate, a sock thief in a nursing home, and a misspelled parade float have in common? Theyāre all part of Kent Hanceās unforgettable keynote address to the Salesā¦
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āSaving College Sports: Cody Campbellās Fight for Fairness in the NIL Eraā
22:14
22:14
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22:14What happens to college sports when the money runs out for everyone but football and basketball?" In this powerful and timely episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent welcomes Cody Campbell, Chairman of the Texas Tech Board of Regents, former NFL player, and co-CEO of Double Eagle. Cody shares his front-line perspective on the seiā¦
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āFrom the White House to Crisis Command: Merrie Spaethās Masterclass in Communicationā
38:12
38:12
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38:12"Whatās the one thing people remember from your messageāand is it what you intended?" In this compelling episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent sits down with Merrie Spaeth, a trailblazing communicator whose career spans journalism, television, the Reagan White House, and crisis management for Fortune 500 companies. From her Quaā¦
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āDiesel-Burning Linemen, Texaco Fires & Useless Jobs: Kent Hanceās Labor Day Wisdomā
25:47
25:47
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25:47š£ āWhatās the most valuable math youāll ever learnāand how does it shape your future?ā In this Labor Day edition of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent kicks off with a powerful saying: āThe most valuable math you can learn is how to calculate the future cost of your present decisions.ā From there, itās a whirlwind of stories, insights,ā¦
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āThe Man Who Knew Everyone: Jack Copeland, UFOs, and the Art of the Big Swingā
20:27
20:27
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20:27āIf you see the Pope, tell him hello.ā Thatās what Jack Copeland would sayāand he just might have meant it. In this unforgettable episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent dives deep into the wild, colorful life of Jack Copeland, a larger-than-life character from Dimmitt, Texas, whose name-dropping was only outmatched by the truth ā¦
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āIgnore Them and Move On: Kent Hance on Nixon, Ford, and the Power of Letting Goā
25:27
25:27
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25:27Thanks, Sandy! Based on the transcript, here's a compelling podcast episode package for Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast: šļø Episode Title āIgnore Them and Move On: Kent Hance on Nixon, Ford, and the Power of Letting Goā š Episode Description "Did Jimmy Carter worry too much about what others thought of him?" In this thought-provokā¦
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From French Horn to Oil Fields: Vicki Hollubās Unstoppable Rise to CEO
46:04
46:04
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46:04"What if your biggest career breakthrough started with a failed dream?" In this compelling episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent sits down with Vicki Hollub, the trailblazing CEO of Occidental Petroleum (Oxy) and the first woman to lead a major U.S. oil company. From her humble beginnings in Bessemer, Alabama, to commanding gloā¦
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Crisis, COā, and Carl Icahn: How Vicki Hollub Led Oxy Through the Storm
26:19
26:19
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26:19"What do you do when oil prices crash, a pandemic hits, and your boardroom turns into a battlefield?" In this gripping continuation of Kent Hanceās conversation with Vicki Hollub, CEO of Occidental Petroleum, listeners are taken behind the scenes of one of the most turbulent chapters in energy industry history. From navigating the high-stakes Anadaā¦
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āLone Wolf Gonzaullas, Fastball Walker & Bonnie and Clyde: Texas Legends and Unforgettable Talesā
19:48
19:48
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19:48What do a one-man riot squad, a tattoo framed by a mortician, and a triple play in Little League have in common? Theyāre all part of this wildly entertaining episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast. In this episode, Kent Hance shares the larger-than-life story of Lone Wolf Gonzaullas, a legendary Texas Ranger who brought law anā¦
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āTalk Is Cheap, But Voting Is Freeā: Kent Hance on Elections, Snake Adams, and the Power of Political Trends
25:03
25:03
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25:03š "What issues are going to impact me and my family in America for the next five yearsāand the next twenty?" In this compelling episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, originally published in November 2024, Kent dives deep into the heart of American democracy with a timely and passionate reflection on Election Day. From international ā¦
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āCamp David, Cockfighting & Congressional Maps: Kent Hance Unpacks the Unexpectedā
27:32
27:32
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27:32š āHow do Camp David, cockfighting, and gerrymandering all connect?ā Thatās the question Kent Hance playfully poses in this eclectic and thought-provoking episode that spans presidential retreats, outlawed blood sports, and the political chessboard of congressional redistricting. Kent opens with a reflection on Camp Davidās storied historyāfrom FDRā¦
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šļø āCherry Bombs, Border Battles & Birthday Cakes: Kent Hance on Loyalty, Law, and Leadershipā
21:34
21:34
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21:34āIf you donāt have time to do it right, what makes you think youāll have time to do it twice?ā That timeless quote from legendary coach John Wooden sets the tone for this episode, where Kent Hance explores the power of preparation, the importance of keeping your word, and the consequences of ignoring common sense. In this wide-ranging and deeply enā¦
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"Atomic Decisions, Cowboy Wisdom, and $100 Enchiladas: Kent Hance Unfiltered"
28:44
28:44
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28:44šāWould you have dropped the bomb?ā Thatās the question Kent Hance wrestles with in this riveting episode, as he dives into one of the most consequential decisions in world historyāPresident Trumanās call to end WWII with atomic force. With the 80th anniversary of Hiroshima looming, Kent reflects on the gravity of leadership, the cost of war, and tā¦
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āFrom Talent Shows to Grammys: Rudy Gatlinās 70-Year Journey in Country Musicā
22:32
22:32
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22:32š What do you get when you mix a Texas Tech law class, a childhood talent show, and a Grammy-winning country music career? You get Rudy Gatlināone-third of the legendary Gatlin Brothersāand the unforgettable stories that shaped his life. In this heartwarming and hilarious episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent sits down with hisā¦
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šļø āBeer Bottles, Gospel Roots, and the Road to Nashville: Rudy Gatlinās Backstage Storiesā
15:59
15:59
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15:59šWhat do chicken wire, gospel hymns, and a canceled real estate course have in common? Theyāre all part of Rudy Gatlinās unforgettable journey in Part 2 of his conversation with Kent Hance. In this episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Rudy Gatlināof the legendary Gatlin Brothersāreturns with more behind-the-scenes stories from a liā¦
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āMoon Dreams, Sonic Booms, and the Juice That Wasnāt Worth the Squeezeā
21:16
21:16
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21:16In this captivating episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent takes us on a nostalgic and thought-provoking journey through two of the most ambitious technological marvels of the 20th century: the Apollo moon landings and the supersonic Concorde jet. With his signature wit and wisdom, Kent reflects on the boundless optimism of the ā¦
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āMoon Landings, Mickey Mouse & Mamaās Prayer: Lessons in Life, Business, and Beerā
30:20
30:20
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30:20āWhy did Walt Disney borrow against his life insuranceāand what does that have to do with a pink pistol, a serial butt slapper, and a college freshman named Larry?ā In this wildly entertaining and insight-packed episode, Kent Hance weaves together stories that span from the moon landing to Mickey Mouse, from late-night TV to freshman orientation atā¦
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In this episode, host Kent Hance continues his engaging conversation with retired federal judge Lee Yeakel. Judge Yeakel shares memorable stories from decades of following University of Texas baseball, recalling standout athletes and legendary games. The discussion then turns to his judicial career, highlighting notable and sometimes humorous casesā¦
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In this episode, host Kent Hance interviews Judge Lee Yeakel, a former federal judge in Austin, Texas. Judge Yeakel discusses his upbringing, education at the University of Texas, and early legal career, sharing insights into the Texas legal market of the late 1960s. The conversation covers notable legal and sports figures, memorable anecdotes, andā¦
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The Greatest Flood Disasters in U.S. History: Lessons Learned
24:24
24:24
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24:24In this episode, host Kent Hance discusses the most significant floods in U.S. history, comparing river and flash floods, and discussing their impact on communities and infrastructure. Hance highlights events like the 1927 Mississippi River flood and Hurricane Katrina, while also sharing stories of resilience, government response, and advances in wā¦
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Flood Safety in Texas Hill Country: 'Turn Around, Don't Drown' and Stories from Kent Hance
21:12
21:12
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21:12Join Kent Hance on "The Best Storyteller in Texas" as he dives into the crucial topic of flood safety in the Texas Hill Country. In this episode, Kent shares gripping personal stories and recent events, including the July 4th floods, emphasizing the life-saving message: "Turn around, don't drown." Discover why this advice is vital for Texans, hear ā¦
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Young Leaders in Action: Andrew Hughes' Leadership Journey to Deputy Secretary of HUD
20:43
20:43
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20:43In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," host Kent Hance dives into the inspiring journey of young leaders, spotlighting Andrew Hughes and his path to becoming the deputy secretary of HUD. Through engaging storytelling, Kent shares personal anecdotes and insightful reflections on leadership, history, and the art of political ā¦
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From the Shah to the Ayatollah: A Historical Perspective on U.S.-Iran Tensions
28:19
28:19
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28:19In this episode, host Kent Hance discusses recent U.S. military actions against Iran, providing historical context on U.S.-Iran relations and the Iranian revolution. Hance analyzes the effectiveness of a recent bombing operation, contrasts it with the Afghanistan withdrawal, and considers the implications for regional stability and U.S. foreign polā¦
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āWhat He Really Wanted Was My Parking Spotā
21:02
21:02
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21:02In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," host Kent Hance shares insights from his time in Congress and discusses a range of topics, including the recent tragic shooting of officials in Minnesota, security concerns for public servants, and the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. The conversation also toucheā¦
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In this episode, host Kent Hance interviews renowned pollster Mike Baselice about the evolving world of political polling. Together, they discuss the intricacies of polling methods, the impact of question wording, and the challenges of collecting accurate data in todayās media landscape. Bass shares stories from high-profile campaigns, including Riā¦
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Kent welcomes pollster Mike Baselice for a wide-ranging conversation on political strategy, polling, and the changing media landscape. Baselice shares stories from his early career, insights into Texas politics, and the evolution of polling methods, including the shift from landlines to digital targeting. The episode highlights the importance of unā¦
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Sam Middleton, Brokering West Texas Part 1
29:07
29:07
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29:07In this episode of Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast, Kent sits down with Sam Middleton, a titan of Texas real estate and the owner/broker of Chas. S. Middleton and Son. Known for brokering some of the most iconic ranch sales in American history, Sam takes us behind the scenes of his legendary career. From orchestrating the $725 milā¦
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Sam Middleton, Brokering West Texas Part 2
30:20
30:20
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30:20Kent is joined by Sam Middleton, the seasoned West Texas ranch broker from Chas. S. Middleton and Son, who orchestrated the blockbuster sale of the 266,000-acre Four Sixes Ranch to a group led by āYellowstoneā creator Taylor Sheridan. Sam walks us through the grit and glory of brokering one of Texasā most storied land deals, a testament to his decaā¦
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Inventions That Changed the Game: From the Wheel to Social Media
27:13
27:13
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27:13In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," Kent explores the theme of invention and innovation. He discusses how necessity drives the creation of significant inventions like fire, the wheel, the printing press, gunpowder, and the internet. The conversation highlights the profound impact these inventions have had on society, comā¦
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Bridging the Gap: Stories of Education, Politics, and Global Relations
31:45
31:45
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31:45In this episode, Kent shares his reflections on the profound impact of teachers, the nuances of effective communication, and the complexities of foreign policy under President Trump. Hance emphasizes the significant role of educators, the importance of clarity in communication, and the strategic aspects of Trump's diplomatic efforts in the Middle Eā¦
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The Dust Bowl: A Historical Perspective on Farming, Migration, and Resilience
27:48
27:48
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27:48In this episode of "Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas," host Kent shares compelling stories about the Dust Bowl's impact on the Great Plains. Kent provides a detailed narrative on the history of farming in the region, the severe challenges faced during the Dust Bowl, and the government's response to the crisis. He recounts personal anecdoteā¦
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Dream Big and Act Bold: The Power of Belief
27:14
27:14
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27:14In this episode of the "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas" podcast, host Kent Hance shares a series of engaging stories and insights. The episode begins with a motivational quote from Wes Kitley, leading into a discussion about Roger Bannister's historic four-minute mile. Hance emphasizes the power of self-belief and dreaming big. He recounā¦
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The Perils of Political Dissent: Stories of Exile and Survival
18:39
18:39
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18:39In this episode of the "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas" podcast, host Kent Hance discusses the theme of political exile, focusing on figures like Leon Trotsky, Idi Amin, and the Shah of Iran. Hance provides historical context, detailing their lives in exile and the political ramifications of their actions. The conversation also addressesā¦
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Jury Trials, Derby Hats, and the Quirks of Human Nature
22:02
22:02
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22:02In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," Chancellor Kent Hance shares engaging stories and insights on various topics. The episode kicks off with the unpredictability of jury decisions, sharing amusing anecdotes from his legal career. The conversation also explores the cultural significance of events like the Kentucky Derby, ā¦
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In this episode, Kent discusses historical events, including the Iranian Revolution, the U.S. embassy hostage crisis, and the Tiananmen Square protests. He shares insights on the political climate of the late 1970s and early 1980s, reflecting on key figures like the Shah of Iran and President Jimmy Carter. Speaking from firsthand experience, Kent sā¦
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Part 2: United States Congressman Jodey Arrington
29:51
29:51
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29:51In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," host Kent Hance continues his insightful conversation with Congressman Jodey Arrington, chairman of the House Budget Committee. They discuss the complexities of the federal budget, the urgent issue of national debt, and the broader implications of fiscal policies on future generations.ā¦
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United States Congressman Jodey Arrington
29:31
29:31
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29:31In this episode, Kent visits with Congressman Jodey Arrington, who is serving his fourth term as chairman of the Budget Committee and is a member of the Ways and Means Committee. Arrington shares his journey from his upbringing in Plainview, Texas, to his education at Texas Tech, and his early career with Governor George W. Bush. The conversation cā¦
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Lessons from the Iron Lady: Kent Hance Reflects on Margaret Thatcher's Legacy
21:12
21:12
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21:12In this engaging podcast episode, Kent Hance shares captivating anecdotes about historical figures, particularly Margaret Thatcher, reflecting on her impactful leadership and memorable quotes. He humorously recounts personal stories, including interactions with notable individuals like Boone Pickens and Autry Stephens. The episode blends humor, perā¦
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Drayton McLane Jr. is an American businessman. He is chairman of the McLane Group, a holding company with a portfolio of various diverse enterprises. He was, until 1990, the CEO of the McLane Company, a grocery and food service warehouse, supply, and logistics firm, and was, from 1993 until 2011, the chairman and CEO of Major League Baseball's Housā¦
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A Look at Howard Hughes: Genius, Eccentricity, and the Complexity of Life
18:01
18:01
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18:01In this episode of the "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas" podcast, Chancellor Kent Hance shares a variety of engaging stories and reflections. He discusses the excitement surrounding the NCAA basketball championship, expressing support for Houston and humorously recounting his own golf experiences. Hance addresses the serious issue of distā¦
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When Pigs Fly: Hilarious Lessons from the Basketball Court to the Farm
22:56
22:56
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22:56In this episode, Kent shares personal anecdotes and reflections on basketball, coaching, and the historical significance of Texas Western (now UTEP) under coach Don Haskins. Chancellor Hance recounts thrilling moments from high school sports and discusses the broader impact of sports on integration and social change. He also touches on his experienā¦
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Sam Middleton, Brokering History in West Texas Part 2
30:20
30:20
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30:20Kent is joined by Sam Middleton, the seasoned West Texas ranch broker from Chas. S. Middleton and Son, who orchestrated the blockbuster sale of the 266,000-acre Four Sixes Ranch to a group led by āYellowstoneā creator Taylor Sheridan. Sam walks us through the grit and glory of brokering one of Texasā most storied land deals, a testament to his decaā¦
…
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1
The Irony of Alcatraz: Freedom Just Out of Reach
28:06
28:06
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28:06In this episode of "Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas," Chancellor Kent Hance shares a variety of stories and insights. He begins with an inspiring saying about striving for excellence and recaps an interview with Sam Middleton, highlighting Middleton's book "Swapping Dirt." Hance then reflects on the history and challenges of Alcatraz prisā¦
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Sam Middleton: Brokering History in West Texas
29:07
29:07
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29:07In this episode of Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast, Kent sits down with Sam Middleton, a titan of Texas real estate and the owner/broker of Chas. S. Middleton and Son. Known for brokering some of the most iconic ranch sales in American history, Sam takes us behind the scenes of his legendary career. From orchestrating the $725 milā¦
…
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1
The Origins and Impact of the FBI's Ten Most Wanted List: A Historical Perspective
22:47
22:47
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22:47In this episode of Kent Hance's podcast, the discussion centers around the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list, notable criminals, and law enforcement anecdotes. Kent provides historical insights into the list's creation and shares stories about infamous criminals like Victor Gerena and Whitey Bulger. The conversation also touches on the FBI's current stateā¦
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Scoring Big: The Connection Between Sports, Education, and Career Satisfaction
22:23
22:23
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22:23In this podcast episode, Kent shares captivating stories and insights about basketball, particularly the NCAA March Madness tournament. The discussion covers notable players, high school experiences, and the influence of teachers. He also reflects on career burnout, emphasizing the importance of finding fulfillment and balance in one's professionalā¦
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