Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Friday, June 13, 2025. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Young Texans find their voice, even without a vote
They may not be able to cast a ballot, but that doesn’t mean young people can’t shape the world around them. We meet two teens who are already speaking out and stepping up – including one who testified before the Texas Legislature at age 13.
CALF inks another chapter in its Abilene history
Jeff Nelson of the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature joins us to talk about CALF’s impact on the city, and how a small West Texas town became a global destination for lovers of books for kids.
Insect expert Wizzie Brown answers kid-submitted questions in the first of a summer series on bugs.
Keeping kids curious without screens
We ask tech expert Omar Gallaga for summer activity ideas that go beyond the algorithm. He says tech isn’t the enemy – if you use it right, it can even foster creativity.
The gang delivers another custom poem.
Storybooks come to life in Abilene
Matt Phelan’s characters are the stars of this year’s CALF, and the author-illustrator is making his first trip to see it all in person. We catch up with him about “Sweater Weather,” peacocks, and how it feels to see your drawings walk around town.
What it’s like being 10 in Texas
Commentator W.F. Strong teams up with his daughter Scarlett for a look at life through the eyes of a Texas fourth grader. From school to screen time to Whataburger, she’s got thoughts.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Gabby Muñoz with the Talk of Texas.
