Podcast “Tacos of Texas” Serves Up Culture, Community, and Complex Issues
AUSTIN, TX – A new podcast is using the worldwide appeal of tacos to explore the diverse communities and pressing issues facing Texas. “Tacos of Texas,” hosted by Mando rayo, delves into the state’s vibrant taco culture as a gateway to understanding the people, stories, and challenges shaping the Lone Star State.
The podcast isn’t simply a culinary guide; it’s a platform for examining the social and political landscape of Texas, notably as it impacts Latino communities. Rayo highlights the disproportionate impact of ICE raids on these communities,noting the complexities within the Latino population itself. “Latinos aren’t a monolith. Latinos have vastly different political views,” Rayo explained in a recent NPR interview.
“Tacos of Texas” features conversations with individuals representing a spectrum of perspectives,including Victoria Elizondo,a chef and DACA recipient,and Daniel Estrada,who identifies as a MAGA Latino. Estrada articulated a viewpoint focused on regulated immigration, stating, ”If they’re here contributing, say, getting the food for us or making it, let’s get the paperwork together…Let’s look up your background. Stay.”
rayo intends the podcast to be both engaging and thought-provoking.”We start with a taco. Let’s make you hungry.And let’s explore some of these issues that can go – you know, they all have different layers,” he said. The podcast aims to use the accessibility of taco culture to initiate conversations about deeper, frequently enough challenging, topics within Texas society.
“tacos of Texas” is available on all major podcast platforms.
