How Big is Texas
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!
Episodes
Diann Bayes, founder of How Big Is Texas, drives Route 66 on its 100th anniversary with her Aunt Ruth, covering nearly 2,500 miles from Wilmington, Illinois, to San Bernardino, California, and more miles to and from the start and finish line.
The trip highlights changing landscapes and quirky roadside stops across Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California and features historic sites, classic d...
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 sp...
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, t...
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 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 roa...
#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 ...
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...
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 high...
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 experienc...
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 ...
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 ...
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 bee...
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...
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 traditi...
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 o...
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.
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