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
Win Halloween With Self-Serve Trick-or-Treating
If you're going to be out trick-or-treating tonight with your own kids but you still want to pass out candy to the neighborhood, this self-serve method will solve your dilemma. And with no potential downsides, this is a total Halloween win.
Are Black Cats Really Bad Luck?
If a black cat crosses your path up ahead and you trip and fall on your face, can you blame the cat? Black cats have a rep for being bad luck, but maybe it's time we debunk that myth once and for all.
The Most Reliable Vehicle in Texas is Not the Most Common
We love the Ford F-150 in Texas, and it's hard to drive on Highway 59 without seeing one or twelve. But it's not the most reliable vehicle, according to Consumer Reports. So what is?
Early Voting Took 8 Minutes
It won't turn out this way for everyone, but my early voting experience was so quick I couldn't believe it. Even with this record turnout so far in Texas, I was in and out in no time. Next week will be a busy one so vote today if you want to save time. You've got four locations in Angelina County to choose from.
The 3 Biggest Reasons Texans Wear Shorts All Year
You know it's going to happen. A couple of months from now when most of us are bundled up head-to-toe battling the wind and cold rain with hats, thick coats, and cozy lined pants, some other brave soul will walk by in shorts. What possesses these people?
Chickenpox Parties Are Still Happening
Even though the CDC says it's not the best idea, parents are still throwing parties to get their kids in the same room with another child who has the chicken pox, to expose them and boost immunity down the road. Is this a good idea?
Texans’ QB Took The Bus to Jacksonville
The rest of the team traveled to Jacksonville by plane, but quarterback Deshaun Watson took a 12-hour bus ride to avoid having cabin pressure on his bruised lung and injured ribs. And JJ Watt is totally jealous!
Average Life Expectancy in Texas is Under 80
People are living longer around the globe, but in Texas, not so much. Many of us won't even make it to 80!
If we want to live longer, apparently we need to move to Spain. Here's why.
Bugs on the Christmas Tree Can Hatch Inside Your House
It may be too early to put up the Christmas decorations, but digesting this little tidbit now can help us ward off problems in December. And if you're on the fence about which kind of tree to put up, this may convince you to go for fake one over the real thing.
Boy Donates $11,000 to Fallen Deputy’s Family
The family of the Nacogdoches deputy killed earlier this month in the line of duty has received an outpouring of support, but this may be the most powerful instance so far. An 11-year old boy took what could have been college money, and gave every bit of it to Brad Jimmerson's family.
Early Voting Starts Monday
Early voters can go to any location without worrying about the precinct, and the lines may be shorter than they will be on election day. If you're planning on casting an early ballot, you've got four locations to choose from in Angelina County.
Kids Who Grow Up Around Books Have An Advantage
If you haven't been to the Kurth Memorial Library lately, here's some incentive to head that way. There's a big advantage to growing up around books, and it sticks with us for life. But is it the tangible copies or the digital ones?