What I Like About Texas

In this episode of What I Like About Texas, host Erika Boyd, president and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, explores how Texas wine has become a major driver of statewide tourism, with Texas ranking fourth in number of wineries and second in total wine economic impact at $24.39 billion. She is joined by Kim McPherson, owner and winemaker at McPherson Cellars in Lubbock, Amanda Koone, vice president of marketing and public relations with the Fredericksburg Convention, and Paul W. McCallum, executive director of the Grapevine Convention of Visitors Bureau. From Lubbock’s high-elevation vineyards and multigenerational winemaking legacy to Fredericksburg’s booming Hill Country wine scene and curated visitor experiences, to Grapevine’s walkable wine culture, signature festivals, and immersive wine trails, the episode showcases how diverse regions are shaping Texas into a nationally recognized wine destination. Along the way, guests share how partnerships, storytelling, and evolving visitor demographics are fueling growth and creating new opportunities for tourism across the state. This episode is sponsored by Visit Lubbock.   What I Like About Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of What I Like About Texas, host Erika Boyd, president and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, kicks off 2026 with a road-trip-ready conversation celebrating some of the Lone Star State’s most memorable routes and roadside attractions. Erika is joined by Diann Bayes of How Big Is Texas and Kashion Smith of Visit Amarillo for a tour of destinations that showcase Texas’ unmistakable character. From iconic stops like Cadillac Ranch and the George W. Bush Presidential Library to the sweeping landscapes of Big Bend National Park, the conversation highlights the state’s mix of history, creativity, and natural beauty. The guests also spotlight lesser-known gems and regional traditions—from Laredo’s George Washington celebration to Route 66 centennial events in Amarillo—and share travel tips for birdwatchers, families, and adventure-seekers alike. It’s an inspiring invitation to hit the road and experience Texas in all its quirky, expansive glory. This episode is sponsored by Visit Amarillo.   What I Like About Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

In this festive edition of What I Like About Texas, host Erika Boyd, president and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, highlights the can’t-miss holiday celebrations that make the Lone Star State sparkle. She kicks things off with Elizabeth Schrack from Visit Grapevine, who shares why Grapevine truly earns its title as the Christmas Capital of Texas—with more than 1,400 seasonal events, including Santa’s North Pole Express and the dazzling ICE experience at the Gaylord Texan Resort. Next up, Dee Dee Poteete from Visit San Antonio unwraps the magic of the Alamo City, from the iconic Ford Holiday River Parade to festive fun at Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld San Antonio. Then, Aileen Ramos from Visit Laredo shines a spotlight on unique South Texas traditions like Navi Fest and the city’s towering Christmas tree. Packed with additional travel tips, regional highlights, and holiday inspiration from across the state, this episode is your guide to celebrating the season—Texas style. This episode is sponsored by Visit Laredo.   What I Like About Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of What I Like About Texas, host Erika Boyd, president and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, takes listeners on a tour of Texas towns that shine in the fall. Diann Bayes of How Big Is Texas highlights the charm of small towns and their lively downtowns. Patricia Moore from the Bandera County CVB shares what makes Bandera the ultimate destination for authentic cowboy culture. Dustin Sternbeck from the City of Denton explains how Denton earned its title as the Halloween Capital of Texas. And Tanya Moody, executive director of Texas Downtown, explores how local events and revitalized downtowns bring communities to life. Packed with travel tips, local stories, and festive recommendations, this episode is your guide to autumn adventures across the Lone Star State. This episode is sponsored by Discover Denton. What I Like About Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

In this high-energy, home-run-hitting episode of What I Like About Texas, host Erika Boyd, president and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, dives into the powerhouse that is sports tourism in the Lone Star State. She’s joined by all-star guests Matt Wilson (Arlington Sports Commission), Josh Dill (Visit Frisco), April Walker-Davis (Visit Cedar Park Texas), and Drew Hays (Austin Sports Commission) for a lively look at how sports tourism is driving serious economic impact and fueling local pride. From packed hotels to booming restaurants, discover how sports tourism keeps Texas communities thriving—and why teamwork makes the dream work when it comes to sustaining success in this dynamic industry.   This episode is sponsored by Visit Cedar Park Texas.   What I Like About Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

In this splash-worthy episode of What I Like About Texas, host Erika Boyd, President and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, dives into some of the Lone Star State’s most popular waterparks, just in time for summer. Later in the episode, she's joined by Richard Pretlow II, President of Morgan's Wonderland, who shares the inspiring story behind the world’s first ultra-accessible waterpark, designed for individuals of all abilities. Together, they explore the importance of inclusive fun, the magic of Texas attractions, and essential water safety tips as temperatures rise. This episode is sponsored by South Padre Island.   What I Like About Texas is produced by Association Briefings.

In the premiere episode of That's What I Like About Texas, host Erika Boyd, president and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, explores some of the Lone Star State’s top coastal destinations. She’s joined by tourism leaders Brett Stawar (Port Aransas Tourism Bureau & Chamber of Commerce), Tony Lyle, CTA (Visit Galveston), Meredith Darden, CDME, CTE (Visit Corpus Christi), and Cindy Trevino (South Padre Island Convention & Visitors Bureau) to uncover the best beach activities, local festivals, birdwatching hotspots, and must-try eats. From family-friendly fun to rich history and resilient communities, this episode is your go-to guide for planning the perfect Texas coastal getaway! This episode is sponsored by the Port Aransas Tourism Bureau & Chamber of Commerce.   That's What I Like About Texas is produced by Association Briefings.  

The Texas Travel Alliance, the primary advocate and voice for the Texas travel industry, is excited to announce the launch of What I Like About Texas, an original podcast series created to spotlight unique destinations, travel tales and tourism news from the great state of Texas. Check out the trailer for season one!