Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025:
Uneven ICE notifications raise concerns
Some Texas cities get advance notice of Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. Others don’t. Law enforcement leaders say the inconsistency could create safety risks and strain community trust.
KUT News’ Mose Buchele, reporting for The Texas Newsroom, joins the Standard with the story.
Bryan Washington’s new novel explores family ties
In “Palaver,” a son living in Tokyo faces an unexpected visit from his estranged mother from Houston. The novel weaves themes of identity, belonging and the complexities of family across cultures.
Author Bryan Washington joins the Standard with more.
Teens, AI chatbots and online risks
Despite new rules and parental consent laws, teens still encounter unsafe content on social media – and now, younger kids are using AI chatbots.
Tech journalist Omar Gallaga joins Texas Standard with more on the new challenges for parents and policymakers.
Women redefining Texas barbecue and beyond
From pitmasters to restaurateurs, women are carving out space in a male-dominated culinary world. Two Austin business owners share their stories of resilience and tradition.
Mando Rayo, host of the Tacos of Texas podcast, joins the Standard with more.
The gang delivers another custom poem. Reach out to Texas Standard with your topic suggestions!
Texas Tribune politics editor Jasper Scherer joins the Standard with a recap of the week that was in Texas politics.
