When “Going Outside” Meant Disappearing All Day: The Country Kid Survival Guide

What was it like growing up in rural East Texas before smartphones, video games, and helicopter parenting?In this episode of Made in Nacogdoches, we sit down with Keith Fuller, head of communications for Memorial Hospital in Nacogdoches, to hear incredible stories about growing up near Melrose, Texas.Keith shares what life was really like as a kid in the country—riding horses bareback, roaming dirt roads all day, collecting Coke bottles for spending money, and growing up in a small East Texas community where kids had freedom most people today can hardly imagine.This conversation is a fascinating look into the culture, history, and character of Nacogdoches County and the kind of childhood that shaped generations of East Texans.If you enjoyed this episode of Made in Nacogdoches with Brad Maule, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss a story from the oldest town in Texas. Your support helps this podcast reach more people who love great stories, rich history, and the magic of East Texas.Host Brad Maule is an accomplished American actor, director, and educator best known for his 22-year run as Tony Jones on General Hospital. With a career spanning television, film, and stage, Maule has worked across classical theater, contemporary drama, and musical performance, earning respect for his range, discipline, and longevity in the industry. Beyond acting, he is a dedicated teacher and mentor, shaping the next generation of performers through his work in higher education.Listen to the Podcast Anywhere You Get Your ShowsFind Made in Nacogdoches on:– Apple Podcasts – Spotify– Amazon Music– iHeartRadio– And all major podcast platformsThanks again for being part of the journey. See you in the next episode!