Houston Daily

Texas native Shane McAuliffe, a University of Houston graduate, has spent over a decade highlighting unique stories and destinations across the state through his television program “The Texas Bucket List.” The show, which began as a local human-interest series, has grown into a nationally syndicated production recognized for its focus on the people and culture of Texas.

McAuliffe’s approach to storytelling is rooted in his background. Growing up in Round Rock and later moving to Houston, he developed an early interest in discovering hidden stories. After earning a degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Houston, McAuliffe worked at Space Center Houston as a tour guide before starting his career in television sports reporting.

His journey eventually led him to create “The Texas Bucket List,” inspired by the success of an earlier project called “Brazos Valley Bucket List.” The show now airs on multiple stations and features McAuliffe traveling throughout Texas, sharing stories about notable places and resilient individuals.

One memorable episode took place at Bluebird Fish Camp in Orange, Texas. During filming, McAuliffe met Oscar LeBlanc Sr., the camp’s owner who had survived a violent robbery. Reflecting on that meeting, McAuliffe said, “He told me he’d prayed about us coming to see him. And I’m sitting here going, ‘This guy almost died and he’s praying for me?’ That was a really emotional moment.”

McAuliffe emphasizes that while each episode may begin with expectations of routine storytelling, they often result in unexpected encounters with remarkable Texans. He notes that recommendations from locals frequently lead to some of the best segments.

Over the years, “The Texas Bucket List” has received several accolades. The episode featuring Bluebird Fish Camp earned a Gold Telly Award for General: Biography. Since its debut in 2013, the show has also won four Lone Star Emmy Awards.

In addition to visiting well-known landmarks like the McDonald Observatory and Galveston’s tall ship Elissa, McAuliffe highlights lesser-known establishments such as Antonini’s Subs & Steaks in Webster and Cream Burger near the University of Houston campus. He says Houston remains one of his favorite cities due to its diversity and abundance of unique locations.

Reflecting on his education at UH, McAuliffe credits professors Beth Olson and William Hawes for their influence on his career. “I was not the best student, and my grades reflected that, but there was a professor, Beth Olson, who recognized something in me,” he says.

Looking ahead to his 13th year producing “The Texas Bucket List,” McAuliffe plans to expand the studio experience for visitors. While there are no immediate plans for spin-offs or related projects such as podcasts or books, he hopes viewers take away an optimistic message: “Things are not as bad as you might think they are. The world is a great place. Go out there and experience as many experiences as possible. Because you only get one ride, and you might as well see it all before you kick the bucket.”