​It's safe to say that only a handful of people may know more about the history of Houston than Mike Vance. He's done lots of work and research on other facets of Texas and American history, as well. That includes creating and producing the celebrated Birth of Texas Series of feature length documentaries that chronicle our state from Texas Indians and Spanish settlement through the American colonists in Mexico, the Texas Revolution and the journey to join the United States. His popular HAM Slices of History series were a staple on Houston's Channel 8 and HISD-TV, and his work on Texas in WWII spans over 12 years. His new Postcards from Texas series bring the same compelling storytelling to the entire state, and Night Heron Media's Texas History Initiative targets 7th grade Texas history curriculum with engaging videos that adults will love, as well. Coupled with his longtime background in media, production and stage performance, that means that Mike is uniquely qualified to create richly-detailed history videos and other media or to deliver an engaging talk on a variety of history topics. His U.S. History podcast Prick the Balloon brings all of his skills together to create compelling and complete stories. Use the drop down menu to learn more about certain projects. And don't forget to visit the site store to order Mike's captivating books on Texas history.

Telling the Stories of Texas

​Mike is a member of the Austin County (Texas) Historical Commission. That follows 12 years as an active member of the Harris County Historical Commission and a year and a half of service to Washington County (Texas), too. During that time he has been responsible for five state and county historical markers and been part of the process for a dozen more. One of those markers is for his beloved Astrodome, and Mike has also worked with multiple groups as part of the effort to save and reimagine Harris County's most iconic building. Among other accolades, his Houston Arts and Media organization won the Houston Press Genius Award. There are also the history books, including two exciting true Texas crime histories. All of his work continues, either directly or through Night Heron Media.