Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025.
Texas braces for shutdown fallout
The federal government has shut down, and Texans are already feeling the effects – from delayed services to uncertainty in vulnerable communities. With negotiations stalled in Washington, the political blame game is heating up.
Karen Tumulty, chief political correspondent for the Washington Post, joins the Standard with more.
Dry fall raises wildfire concerns
Despite the calendar’s fall-time claims, much of Texas remains hot and dry – conditions that raise the risk of wildfires. Space City Weather managing editor and meteorologist Matt Lanza breaks down the forecast, explains why hurricane season may be over for Texas, and highlights which regions face the greatest fire danger.
Buc-ee’s isn’t just a gas station – it’s a phenomenon. From its sparkling bathrooms to branded pajamas, the Texas-born chain has built a cult-like following. YouTuber Phil Edwards explores the company’s unusual business model and what it reveals about branding in America.
The pop culture analyst and creator joins Texas Standard with the story.
‘I have befriended grief’: A daughter finds clarity and direction
After losing loved ones, many turn to storytelling to keep their memories alive. That’s what inspired children’s book author Phuong Palafox to write about her family’s journey from Vietnam.
She shared her story with Melissa Nguyen as part of NPR’s Next Generation Radio Project.
Football and the myth of integration
Texas high school football helped drive school integration in the 1960s and ’70s, but has that progress stalled? A new book argues that the sport now reflects growing racial and economic divides.
Don Albrecht, author of “Blinded by the Lights: Texas High School Football and the Myth of Integration,” sits down with the Standard.
What’s ahead for the Supreme Court
The U.S. Supreme Court kicks off a new term today. Major cases on the docket touch on immigration, voting rights and campaign finance. What’s at stake – and what should Texans watch for?
Seth Chandler, law professor at the University of Houston, joins Texas Standard with a preview.
