"What if your biggest career breakthrough started with a failed dream?"

In this compelling episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent sits down with Vicki Hollub, the trailblazing CEO of Occidental Petroleum (Oxy) and the first woman to lead a major U.S. oil company. From her humble beginnings in Bessemer, Alabama, to commanding global energy operations, Vicki shares a deeply personal and inspiring journey of grit, perseverance, and vision.

Listeners will be captivated by stories of:

• Her father’s relentless pursuit of carpentry perfection and how it shaped her work ethic.
• Her mother’s magnetic personality and GED triumph, teaching Vicki the power of human connection.
• A surprising pivot from music to mineral engineering, sparked by a French horn and a brutally honest professor.
• Her eye-opening assignments in Russia, Venezuela, and Ecuador, revealing the universal values shared across cultures.
• The bold moves that led to Oxy’s dominance in the Permian Basin, and the visionary leadership of Steve Chazen and Armand Hammer.
• Facing gender bias head-on in the field, and the importance of having advocates—not just mentors—in your corner.

With memorable quotes like, “Sometimes we don’t tell people how impactful they are to us until they pass away,” and “Trust is such a powerful thing,” this episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and staying true to your values.

Whether you're a student, a professional, or just someone who loves a good story, this episode will leave you inspired and energized.

📢 Call to Action:

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a dose of inspiration today. Follow us on Instagram @beststorytellerpodcast and send your thoughts to [email protected] — we love hearing from you!

 

"What do you do when oil prices crash, a pandemic hits, and your boardroom turns into a battlefield?"

In this gripping continuation of Kent Hance’s conversation with Vicki Hollub, CEO of Occidental Petroleum, listeners are taken behind the scenes of one of the most turbulent chapters in energy industry history. From navigating the high-stakes Anadarko acquisition to surviving a price war and global pandemic, Hollub shares how she led with resilience, strategy, and heart.

This episode dives deep into:

• The moment Oxy’s stock plummeted and how Hollub responded within hours.
• The emotional toll of cutting dividends and the tough calls that followed.
• Boardroom drama with Carl Icahn, and the importance of knowing who’s truly on your team.
• Her candid conversations with Warren Buffett, and what she’s learned from one of the world’s greatest investors.
• Oxy’s bold climate strategy, including the groundbreaking direct air capture technology and the acquisition of Carbon Engineering.
• Why leadership means putting people first, even when the stakes are high.

With powerful reflections like, “You’ve got to be there when your employees need you the most,” and “Crises can either break you or bring you closer,” this episode is a masterclass in leadership under pressure.

Whether you're in business, energy, or just love a good story of grit and innovation, this episode will leave you inspired and informed.

📢 Call to Action:

If this episode moved you, subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who values strong leadership and bold ideas. Follow us on Instagram @beststorytellerpodcast — we love hearing from you!

 

What do a one-man riot squad, a tattoo framed by a mortician, and a triple play in Little League have in common? They’re all part of this wildly entertaining episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast.

In this episode, Kent Hance shares the larger-than-life story of Lone Wolf Gonzaullas, a legendary Texas Ranger who brought law and order to oil boomtowns with a pearl-handled .45 and a white Stetson. From walking criminals through town in chains to advising Hollywood on authenticity, Gonzaullas’ story is one for the ages.

Kent also reflects on:

• 🎓 A law school hopeful who made a U-turn on the interstate after a last-minute acceptance call.
• 🍕 A pizza delivered by submarine.
• 🚂 Teenagers who stole a train using YouTube—but forgot to learn how to stop it.
• ⚾ His own unassisted triple play in Little League.
• 💪 Jessica Caldwell, a janitor at Texas A&M who earned four degrees while raising four kids.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Ralph Hall’s run-in with Bonnie and Clyde—and the sheriff who wasn’t too eager to chase them.

With stories of grit, gratitude, and good old Texas charm, this episode is packed with humor, heart, and history.

Notable Quotes:

“One riot, one Ranger.” “You ever seen a bumper sticker on a Bentley?” “If you leave it unlocked, I’ll catch the last train through Rockwall.”

Call to Action:

If you love Texas history, unforgettable characters, and storytelling that makes you laugh out loud, this episode is a must-listen. Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who appreciates a good tale. Follow us on Instagram @BestStorytellerPodcast and stream every episode on your favorite podcast platform.

 

 

📘 "What issues are going to impact me and my family in America for the next five years—and the next twenty?"

In this compelling episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, originally published in November 2024, Kent dives deep into the heart of American democracy with a timely and passionate reflection on Election Day. From international perspectives on U.S. elections to the razor-thin margins in battleground states, Kent offers a candid look at the political landscape and why voting matters more than ever.

But it’s not all politics—Kent brings his signature storytelling flair with hilarious and heartfelt tales of his childhood friend Snake Adams, whose antics at Texas dances and quick wit in sticky situations are pure gold. These stories, rich with Texas charm, remind listeners why Kent Hance truly is the best storyteller in the Lone Star State.

Listeners will also hear Kent’s insights on:

• The global impact of U.S. elections, including anecdotes from Ireland and Argentina.
• Senate and House races that could reshape the future of American politics.
• The evolution of voting systems and how early voting affects campaign strategy.
• Lighter moments in politics—from Trump at McDonald's to Saturday Night Live skits.

Notable Quote: "They may not like some of the policies, but they like America." — Kent Hance

Whether you're a political junkie, a fan of Texas storytelling, or just curious about the quirks of American elections, this episode delivers insight, humor, and heart.

📢 Call to Action

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves great stories and sharp political insight. Visit hancepodcast.com for more episodes and exclusive content.

 

 

📘 “How do Camp David, cockfighting, and gerrymandering all connect?” That’s the question Kent Hance playfully poses in this eclectic and thought-provoking episode that spans presidential retreats, outlawed blood sports, and the political chessboard of congressional redistricting.

Kent opens with a reflection on Camp David’s storied history—from FDR’s Shangri-La to Reagan’s horseback rides and Bush’s 487-day escape from Washington. With vivid storytelling, Kent shares personal memories of visiting the retreat, including the signing of the Camp David Accords and a mole-recognizing moment with Senator Chuck Grassley.

Then, the episode takes a sharp turn into the world of cockfighting—its brutal legacy, global popularity, and firm illegality in the U.S. Kent makes it clear: “Don’t waste your time writing me a nasty letter—we’re against it.”

Finally, Kent dives into the controversial world of gerrymandering, breaking down how both parties manipulate district lines to gain power. With sharp political insight and a dose of humor, he explains how redistricting could reshape Texas politics and why hypocrisy runs deep on both sides of the aisle.

Key Themes & Highlights:

• 🏞️ Camp David’s evolution and its role in diplomacy
• 🎂 A presidential retreat turned political strategy session
• 🐓 The global culture and cruelty of cockfighting
• 🗺️ Gerrymandering explained—who benefits and why it matters
• 🐊 A 10-foot alligator in Fort Worth and a fiery $7 feud in Maryland
• 🎬 Eisenhower’s movie nights and Khrushchev’s pinball obsession
• 🏛️ Predictions on redistricting, court battles, and primary delays

Notable Quote: “Life is like riding a bicycle—you gotta stay balanced and keep moving.”

📣 Call to Action:

If you enjoy history, humor, and hard-hitting political insight, subscribe to Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast. Be sure to leave a review, share this episode, and explore the archive for more unforgettable stories from the Lone Star legend.

“If you don’t have time to do it right, what makes you think you’ll have time to do it twice?” That timeless quote from legendary coach John Wooden sets the tone for this episode, where Kent Hance explores the power of preparation, the importance of keeping your word, and the consequences of ignoring common sense.

In this wide-ranging and deeply engaging episode, Kent shares stories that span decades—from a birthday cake that won political loyalty to a cherry bomb prank that nearly ended in a shootout. He reflects on the value of small gestures, the wisdom of West Texas bankers, and the kind of leadership that earns respect across party lines.

Kent also dives into the hot-button issue of immigration, offering candid insights into the political tug-of-war between federal authority and sanctuary cities. With sharp commentary on recent polling data, the role of Tom Homan as border czar, and the evolving stance of mayors in cities like Chicago and Denver, Kent doesn’t hold back.

Key Themes & Highlights:

• 🎂 A birthday cake that turned into campaign support
• 💣 Cherry bombs, teenage mischief, and a life-changing oath
• 🏦 Old-school banking wisdom and community trust
• 🧊 Inauguration memories and political unity
• 📊 Gallup poll breakdown on Trump’s approval across key issues
• 🧱 Immigration, sanctuary cities, and the future of border enforcement
• 🔥 Stupid criminal of the week: chimney escape gone wrong

Notable Quote: “You knew I’d keep my word—because you knew I’d shoot you if you didn’t.” – WW Jones, Chief of Police

📣 Call to Action:

If you love Texas tales, political insight, and stories that stick with you, subscribe to Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast. Don’t forget to leave a review, share this episode, and tune in weekly for more unforgettable moments from the Lone Star legend himself.

 

📘“Would you have dropped the bomb?” That’s the question Kent Hance wrestles with in this riveting episode, as he dives into one of the most consequential decisions in world history—President Truman’s call to end WWII with atomic force. With the 80th anniversary of Hiroshima looming, Kent reflects on the gravity of leadership, the cost of war, and the legacy of the Manhattan Project, all through his signature lens of wit, wisdom, and West Texas storytelling.

But this episode isn’t just about history—it’s packed with colorful tales and sharp insights. From the grit of Red Raiders like Jody Arrington and Cody Campbell to the revival of the Presidential Fitness Test, Kent celebrates Texas pride and perseverance. He shares unforgettable anecdotes, including a $100 enchilada hustle, a root beer-fueled tip chase, and a divorce case cracked by bathroom scales.

Listeners will laugh, learn, and reflect as Kent blends humor with hard truths, reminding us that “there’s never been a horse that can’t be rode, and never been a cowboy that can’t be thrown.”

 

🔑 Key Moments & Themes:

• Truman’s atomic bomb decision and its global impact
• The Manhattan Project’s secretive operations and Texas ties
• Jody Arrington’s legacy of historic tax cuts
• Revival of the Presidential Fitness Test and youth wellness
• Customer service stories that prove hustle pays
• Geography quirks like the Panama Canal’s surprising orientation
• NFL team rankings and the power of parity
• College football nostalgia and stadium quirks
• Legal revenge and clever courtroom wins

 

💬 Notable Quotes:

• “Luck never hit a guy sitting in the shade.” – Coach Darrell Royal
• “If they ever hang me, I want that group to go get the rope.” – Kent Hance on bureaucracy
• “You don’t rob a Little League stand and expect sympathy from the jury.”

 

📣 Call to Action:

If you love Texas tales, historical deep dives, and stories that make you laugh out loud, subscribe to Kent Hance, The Best Storyteller in Texas Podcast. Don’t forget to leave a review, share this episode, and tune in weekly for more unforgettable moments from the Lone Star legend himself.

 

 

📘 What do you get when you mix a Texas Tech law class, a childhood talent show, and a Grammy-winning country music career? You get Rudy Gatlin—one-third of the legendary Gatlin Brothers—and the unforgettable stories that shaped his life.

In this heartwarming and hilarious episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent sits down with his former student and longtime friend, Rudy Gatlin, for Part 1 of a two-part conversation that spans decades of music, family, and fame. From humble beginnings in Abilene to the bright lights of Nashville and Johnny Carson’s couch, Rudy shares the Gatlin Brothers’ 70-year journey in music, including their first big break, their Grammy-winning hit “Broken Lady,” and the story behind their chart-topping anthem “All the Gold in California.”

Listeners will hear about Rudy’s Texas roots, his time at Texas Tech, and the family values that kept the Gatlin Brothers grounded through decades of success. With Kent’s signature humor and Rudy’s natural charm, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes stories from the golden age of country music.

👤 Guest Background:

Rudy Gatlin is the youngest member of the iconic country trio Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers. With a career spanning over 70 years, the brothers have earned Grammy Awards, chart-topping hits, and a place in country music history. Rudy’s deep Texas roots and early start in music make him a perfect guest for Kent’s storytelling spotlight.

💬 Notable Quotes & Moments:

• “We’ve been singing together for 70 years—and we’ve got the pictures to prove it.”
• “I couldn’t even spell B Law until I took your class.” – Rudy, joking about Kent’s influence at Texas Tech.
• “Larry and Johnny hit it off on the couch… wait, that doesn’t sound right!” – Rudy, on their appearance on The Tonight Show.
• “If you say something bad about beef, I’m gonna sue you every time.” – Kent, recounting the Oprah vs. Amarillo lawsuit.

📣 Call to Action:

Enjoyed this trip down memory lane? Don’t miss Part 2 of Rudy Gatlin’s interview—subscribe to Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas on your favorite podcast platform. Leave a review to let us know your favorite moment, and share this episode with fellow country music fans and Texas history buffs. New episodes drop weekly!

 

📘What do chicken wire, gospel hymns, and a canceled real estate course have in common? They’re all part of Rudy Gatlin’s unforgettable journey in Part 2 of his conversation with Kent Hance.

In this episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Rudy Gatlin—of the legendary Gatlin Brothers—returns with more behind-the-scenes stories from a life spent on stage and on the road. From dodging beer bottles in rowdy honky-tonks to singing gospel in Oak Cliff churches, Rudy shares the highs, lows, and hilarious moments that shaped his 70-year music career.

Listeners will hear about Rudy’s deep Texas roots, his admiration for gospel greats like the Blackwood Brothers, and his encounters with country legends like Roy Clark, Johnny Cash, and Roger Miller. He also opens up about the moment he finally earned his Texas Tech degree—and why he didn’t get to walk the stage until 50 years later.

👤 Guest Background:

Rudy Gatlin is the youngest member of the Grammy-winning country trio Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers. With a career spanning over seven decades, Rudy brings heartfelt stories, humor, and wisdom from a lifetime in music, making him a perfect guest for Kent’s storytelling spotlight.

💬 Notable Quotes & Moments:

• “We’d have needed chicken wire if we kept singing ballads in that honky-tonk.”
• “God just said, ‘Y’all sing.’” – Rudy on the family’s musical gift.
• “I was free as a bird in my ‘68 Volkswagen headed to Lubbock.”
• “There’s no gatekeeper anymore.” – Rudy on the challenges of today’s music industry.
• “I think my parents had the best seat in the house.” – On finally walking the graduation stage.

📣 Call to Action:

Love hearing stories from the golden age of country music? Don’t miss an episode—subscribe to Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas on your favorite podcast platform. Leave a review to share your favorite moment, and tell a friend who loves Texas tales, music legends, and a good laugh. New episodes drop weekly!

 

 

In this captivating episode of Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas, Kent takes us on a nostalgic and thought-provoking journey through two of the most ambitious technological marvels of the 20th century: the Apollo moon landings and the supersonic Concorde jet. With his signature wit and wisdom, Kent reflects on the boundless optimism of the 1960s and 70s, when Americans believed we’d be living on the moon and flying across the globe in under three hours.

Kent revisits the excitement and eventual disillusionment surrounding these innovations, exploring how high costs, political hesitations, and public indifference grounded dreams that once soared. He also shares personal anecdotes—from flying the Concorde to humorous misunderstandings in Congress—and even touches on modern parallels with artificial intelligence.

This episode is a rich blend of history, humor, and insight, reminding us that sometimes, “the juice just isn’t worth the squeeze.”

👤 Guest Background:

While this episode doesn’t feature a formal guest, Kent references past guest Ginger Kerrick, a NASA veteran who trained astronauts for the International Space Station and speaks four languages. Her story adds depth to the discussion on space exploration and international collaboration.

💬 Notable Quotes & Moments:

• “Luck never hit a guy sitting in the shade.” – A classic Daryl Royal quote that sets the tone for the episode.
• “The juice just wasn’t worth the squeeze.” – Kent’s summation of why the Concorde and moon colonization never took off.
• “If there are other people in the universe and they see Animal House, they’re not gonna wanna invade us.” – Kent on the enduring hilarity of the 1978 comedy classic.
• “Red is dead.” – Kent’s vivid description of flying through dangerous weather.

📣 

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to Kent Hance: The Best Storyteller in Texas on your favorite podcast platform. Leave us a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with friends who love great stories, Texas charm, and a good laugh. New episodes drop every week—don’t miss out!