Hi! I grew up in a one-stoplight town in rural Nebraska and my whole family still lives there with three churches, a bar, and a courthouse. I left because I like lots of people and taller buildings, and I don't like cold weather. On those rare days in Texas when it gets snowy and icy, you'll find me inside Googling beach vacations. I don't plan to leave Texas now that I've been here for most of my adult life because the barbecue and fajitas are just way too addictive. I've worked in radio from the moment I graduated from college at the University of Nebraska, and besides getting the hang out with cool people like you every day, I love sports, great restaurants, self improvement, and meeting new people. I love all movies starring Melissa McCarthy or Julia Roberts, and all TV shows with home improvements or food in them. You'll probably hear me talk about my three daughters on the air, along with the challenges of being a single mom. I'm on several of the dating apps, because trying to meet someone in person these days is way too creepy.
Jen Austin
Your East Texas Holiday Tipping Guide
Most of us don't live buildings with a doorman so we can skip that, but we should be tipping landlords, delivery drivers, and handymen this holiday season.
How much? And how do we get the tip into the hands of the trash collector without getting run over?
Celebrate National Cookie Day With Grandma’s Recipe
December 4th is National Cookie Day, and it's the perfect opportunity to whip up a batch of the peanut butter ones with the criss-cross marks like Grandma used to make.
The Story Behind Vander Esch’s Celebration Wolf Howl
When Dallas Cowboys' linebacker, Leighton Vander Esch has reason to celebrate, he does it with a wolf howl and it's not by chance. It turns out he's got a long history with wolves, and that makes a unique celebration even better.
The Best Trees Have Ornaments With a Story
We'll probably walk past a hundred Christmas trees this season and never know the full story behind each ornament. The ones that have been hand-made by a relative can probably tell an important story if we take the time to ask.
You Cannot Go Wrong With This Gift
People that are the hardest to buy for will love this gift, and those that seem to have everything can always use one more. This Christmas present idea could solve all of your gift-giving problems.
Try Making a Fast-Food Favorite At Home
Taco Bell is bringing back its tasty Rolled Chicken Tacos, and I may have stumbled upon an alternative version that we can make at home, without the deep fryer. See what you think.
5 Quick Things You Should Ask Alexa to Entertain Yourself
If you're only asking Alexa for the current temperature in Lufkin or the score of the most recent Texans' game, you're totally missing out. The possibilities are endless, and sometimes she fires back some pretty goofy surprises.
One Pacifier Could Send Your Baby to the Hospital
There is one certain food that babies under 1-year old should not have, so don't buy the pacifier that is filled with it! Four babies have been hospitalized with botulism because of it.
Your Odds Of Getting Punched on Black Friday Just Went Up
People in Texas are becoming a lot more ill-behaved over doorbuster deals. Our odds of seeing a fight break out on Black Friday just shot up, and at the same time, shoppers in Louisiana have become a lot more courteous and well-behaved. Prepare yourself.
Lufkin Salvation Army Needs Volunteers for Red Kettle Campaign
The official kickoff of the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign comes tomorrow at halftime of the Dallas Cowboys' Thanksgiving Day Game, but the Lufkin Salvation Army has already launched its efforts. And they need volunteers! This could be a great thing to do with your family this holiday season.
Impress Your People With The Perfect Cranberry Sauce
There's nothing wrong with slicing cranberry sauce into discs straight out of a can that makes that "schloop" sound when you slide it out. But if you're looking for a fresh option, this is a good one.
Thanksgiving Dinner is Healthier Than You Think
If you over-indulge on Thanksgiving Day, at least you'll get an extra dose of protein and Vitamin A. There are some nutritional advantages to pigging out, and this might make us feel a little better about it.