How Big is Texas

Episode 28 - My 2025 Road Trip Highlights in Texas

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.

Episode 27 - A Texas Thanksgiving: Brown Food, Sweet Tea, and Family Memories

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.

Episode 26 - Visiting All 254 Texas Counties: My Lone Star Journey

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.

Episode 25 - The Magic of Fall in the Lone Star State

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.

Episode 24 - Q&A with Diann: My Favorite Memories Growing Up in Texas and Memories Made Across the State

#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.

Episode 23 - Unveiling the Charm of the Texas Panhandle

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.

Episode 22 - Experiencing Buc-ee's: The Texas Mega Convenience Store

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.

Episode 21 - Devastating Floods: A Texan's Story of Loss and Hope

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.

Episode 20 - Exploring the Gulf Coast: Texas Summer Adventures

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.

Episode 19 - Exploring the Epic Journey around Texas: More than 3,300 Miles of Adventure

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.