In this deeply personal episode of Focus Your Inner Bitch: The Mary Bratton Story, Mary recounts a formative chapter of her early adulthood marked by manipulation, workplace danger, and emotional control. Through faith, hard boundaries, and raw self-reckoning, she ultimately confronts what she calls "the devil" and reclaims her life on her own terms. This is a powerful story about discernment, survival, and the lifelong strength that comes from standing up for yourself.

Jim and Mary Bratton settle in for a warm, off-the-cuff time capsule of teenage Houston. Mary tells the story of cousins as first friends—mischief, "wrapping" houses, and the rules of making it back to the getaway car. Then it's straight to the Pan American Ballroom ("the PA"): live bands, smoky air, underage dancing, and the mystery of the legendary orange Tommy.

FYI-Orange Tommy
A tiny orange drink passed hand-to-hand at the Pan American Ballroom—sweet, slightly mysterious, and forever linked to teenage freedom.

This sound of surf was recorded December 9, 2025 at the 9 mile entrance point to the Galveston Beach.

Experience 27 uninterrupted minutes of natural Gulf of Mexico waves recorded on Galveston Island. This calming ocean soundscape is designed to help you relax, meditate, restore, or drift into a peaceful nap. No narration—just steady, soothing surf to ease your mind and body. Put your buds on for full experience.

Please Enjoy!

Best Regards,

Jim Bratton