Boomtown (podcast)

Boomtown is a narrative podcast focusing on the energy industry and its impact on the Permian Basin region of West Texas and Southeast New Mexico. Produced by Texas Public Radio (TPR), it examines the complex interplay of oil and gas production, community life, economics, environment, and politics in this rapidly changing area.

The podcast offers in-depth reporting, interviews, and analysis of the booms and busts inherent in the oil industry, exploring the social, cultural, and environmental consequences of these cycles. It delves into topics such as housing shortages, infrastructure challenges, the impacts of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) on water resources and seismic activity, and the efforts to balance economic growth with sustainable practices.

Boomtown aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the Permian Basin beyond simple narratives of economic prosperity, highlighting the diverse voices and perspectives within the community and the challenges they face. It seeks to explore the region’s history, its present realities, and its potential future in the context of the global energy transition. Past seasons have investigated topics such as the rise and fall of oil prices, the impact of climate change, and the ongoing challenges related to labor and workforce development in the Permian Basin. The podcast is generally available on major podcast platforms.