Stories from Deep in the Heart, a project of Texas Folklife

The completed audio documentaries from the Stories from O Henry Middle School. Stories include celebrity musician profiles, an insider's look at the formation of the ACL music festival, and many other stories about local Austin artists, businesses and O Henry Middle School legends.

Students from Martin Middle School in Austin, Texas produced these radio stories with assistance from Texas Folklife for the Stories from Deep in the Heart program.

Students discuss international experiences; life as refugees; the cultures of Latin America, Africa, and Afghanistan; and coming to the United States. The students who participated in this program were mostly recent immigrants or refugees who were just beginning to learn English at the time of our program.

In May 2017, students at Fulmore Middle School worked with Texas Folklife producers to create a series of personal stories on their teachers and their lives. The resulting radio pieces explore Latinx culture and identity, growing up poor in rural Texas, and family legacy.

In May 2017, middle school students at Gus Garcia Young Men's Leadership Academy worked with Texas Folklife producers to create a series of personal stories. The resulting radio pieces explore stories that aren't what they first seem to be, featuring guest musicians and explorations of student talent.