The Smell of Death in Bastrop

“Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live in a town where the air itself becomes the talk of the community?” That’s the question that kicks off this lively episode of The JB and Sandy Show. Join JB, Sandy, and special guest Tricia as they dive into the quirky, sometimes pungent realities of life in Central Texas. The episode opens with a hilarious debate over the ultimate workout playlist—would yacht rock really get you pumped up?—before shifting to the headline-grabbing saga of Bastrop’s infamous animal byproduct rendering facility. Hundreds of residents are up in arms as the “smell of death and poop” drifts for miles, sparking memories of childhood odors and the oddities of growing up near factories and mills. But it’s not all about the nose! The show takes a dramatic turn with the story of the Vandegrift High School band’s semi-trailer, which was struck by a train en route to a state competition. Hear how the band community rallied, with other schools lending instruments so the show could go on—culminating in a triumphant third-place finish. Throughout, Tricia brings her signature wit and insight, sharing firsthand accounts and local news that keep the conversation fresh and relatable. Her background as a plugged-in Austinite and her knack for storytelling make her the perfect guide through these uniquely Texan tales. The hosts also riff on celebrity culture, from Glenn Powell’s rise as Austin’s new “ministry of culture” (with a little help from Matthew McConaughey) to the surprising roster of University of Texas alumni. Expect laughs, nostalgia, and a few unexpected facts that will have you texting your friends. Call-to-Action Love what you hear? Don’t miss a moment—subscribe to The JB and Sandy Show on your favorite podcast platform, leave us a review, and share this episode with friends who appreciate a good story (and maybe a good laugh about bad smells). Your support keeps the conversation going!