City Cast Austin

A new ruling from a federal appeals court is allowing Senate Bill 12 to move forward after a district judge declared the law unconstitutional in 2023. The bill restricts drag performers from "dancing suggestively" or "wearing certain prosthetics" on public property. On this week's Friday News Roundup host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw to discuss the new ban and its impact on drag performers across the city. Plus, the team breaks down a new poll showing Representative Jasmine Crockett with a 12-point lead over Texas State Representative James Talarico, and why the Austin Police Department is increasing enforcement of traffic violations.  And, don't miss the chance to enter our giveaway for all City Cast Austin members for a pair of SXSW music badges — all you have to do is become a neighbor before March 6, when we'll pick a winner at random.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 27th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin Downtown Austin Alliance

For years, Austin's homicides have been declining though the population has increased, and our homicide rate is now lower than other major Texas cities, at five murders per 100,000 population. Assistant Chief Angie Jones attributes that in part to a new place-based focus that looks for patterns and elements of crime, and shares more with executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec in today's episode. Plus, a look at crime on Sixth Street, and advice for having a safe spring festival season.   And, don't miss the chance to enter our giveaway for all City Cast Austin members for a pair of SXSW music badges — all you have to do is become a neighbor before March 6, when we'll pick a winner at random.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE Learn more about the sponsors of this February 26th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin Downtown Austin Alliance 

With cooler temperatures falling further behind us, and a new local favorite's second location now open, it's time for a margarita. But with hundreds of options in town, Austinites might need a hand deciding where to go. We've got you covered! Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to narrow down the best margaritas in town.   This episode originally aired on July 16, 2025. Plus, don't forget — we're giving away a pair of SXSW music badges to a lucky City Cast Austin member. Become a neighbor today to be considered. We'll pick a winner at random on March 6.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 25th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin Downtown Austin Alliance

Early voting is halfway over for the Travis County primary elections, and Democrats are casting ballots in big numbers. In today's Tuesday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to talk about the turnout, the latest in the saga over Austin's painted crosswalks, the local campus where a student says another student violated the state's new bathroom bill, and what our readers and listeners love about Austin. Plus, don't miss the chance to enter our giveaway for all City Cast Austin members for a pair of SXSW music badges — all you have to do is become a neighbor before March 6, when we'll pick a winner at random.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 24th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin Downtown Austin Alliance

A $1 million increase in funding from President Donald Trump's administration — plus a record-setting $150 million donation from the Moody Foundation — is empowering Huston-Tillotson University to make significant changes to its campus on the East Side in the coming years. But more than 150 years after the city's oldest higher education institution was founded, the East Side looks dramatically different than it used to. So, should H-T relocate? And if not, what is its role in a modern-day gentrified Austin? And, why is enrollment at H-T and other historically black colleges and universities growing while it's declining at other institutions? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by H-T President Melva K. Wallace to discuss.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter..  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 23rd episode: Window Nation Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin Downtown Austin Alliance

Everyone's talking about AI these days, including Austinites. And now, more data centers are popping up across the country, thanks in part to the AI revolution. But some cities are stemming the tide, including Madison, Wisconsin, who recently passed a one-year moratorium on new data center construction. City Cast CEO David Plotz feels strongly that this was the wrong choice! He's sitting down with City Cast Madison podcast host Bianca Martin to weigh the pros and cons of data centers, and debate the economic, ethical, and ecological considerations at the heart of this debate. Plus, David and Bianca share must-know tips for making it in Madison and DC.  We also mentioned this City Cast Madison episode. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

A Travis County District Court judge has declared four men innocent in the infamous Yogurt Shop Murders, a case that has haunted Austin for more than three decades. The ruling follows new DNA evidence linking the murders to another man. On this week's Friday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn breaks down the latest developments with executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw, exploring what justice means for these men after so many years. Later, the team digs into the growing fight against Central Texas' data center boom, and a look at the Texan who just brought home an Olympic gold medal.   Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 20th episode: Window Nation Duer - get 15% off your first order

Let's face it, Austin is a foodie town — for better or worse. On today's episode, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to share their Austin restaurant scene roses, thorns, and buds, or things that they love, hate, and are hoping to see grow. Plus, tips on how to actually get a last-minute reservation in this town, the social media food scene darlings that might be overrated, and more.   Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter. And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 19th episode: Window Nation Duer - get 15% off your first order

Early voting is officially underway for the Democratic and Republican primaries and Austin voters are weighing in on some high-profile races in Texas. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to discuss the latest primary developments, including a new voter tipline aimed at protecting "the voting process," and why The Late Show with Stephen Colbert pulled an interview with Texas State Representative James Talarico. Plus, the team dives into the buzz on MML Hospitality's newest get and why a picture of a highway flyover is going viral. Click here for more information on Austin Public Library's centennial celebrations.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 18th episode: Window Nation Duer - get 15% off your first order

Will this be the year that Texas turns blue? Or is it more likely that Austin turns slightly more red? Early voting begins today in the run-up to the March 3 Democratic and Republican primaries, which are the precursors for the November midterm elections. And while the big race on everyone's mind is the Democratic primary race for U.S. Senate, lots of local and state-wide races will be on Travis County voters' ballots, too. In this two-part episode, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by KUT state capital reporter Blaise Gainey and the Austin American-Statesman's Alex Driggars to get you primary-ready.  This episode was mistakenly published yesterday while we were off. We're sorry for the confusion. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 17th episode: Window Nation Duer - get 15% off your first order

All eyes have been on the Twin Cities lately, including Austinites'. Operation Metro Surge is reportedly ending in Minnesota, with the withdrawal of immigration agents expected over the next week. Over the last two months, though, residents of the Twin Cities have organized a range of local collective action efforts including protests, mutual aid, and monitoring ICE — and they've done it quickly. In this inaugural episode of “Your City Could Be Better,” City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Twin Cities podcast host Sean McPherson about how his community self-organized, why these networks have been so successful, and what other cities can take away from Minnesotans' response to Operation Metro Surge. Plus, we have a D.C. vs. Twin Cities face-off on local cultural norms. We also mentioned this episode of City Cast Twin Cities. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Dating in Austin isn't easy, and for some of y'all, dating here can be downright brutal. In honor of Valentine's Day, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and account executive Dan Weinstock to share some of our listeners' best, worst, and most chaotic attempts at finding love in our city. Plus, the team unpacks the student newspaper investigation into a former UT professor's connection to Jeffrey Epstein (quick note: this discussion contains adult topics), and explains why a group is still fighting to halt construction on the new convention center. Running the Austin Marathon this weekend? Don't forget to check out these events happening around town! Check out our new City Cast podcast "Your City Could Be Better" on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by CEO David Plotz, this week's inaugural episode features the host of City Cast Twin Cities talking about how Minneapolis and St. Paul mobilized so quickly and broadly against the months-long ICE operation there. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 13th episode: City of Austin Window Nation Jeremiah Program Austin New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway

Is Austin still weird? The jury may be out these days. But to one visiting superstar, Austin's groovy — and that may be even better. Suzy Eddie Izzard extended her run at The Paramount Theater after five sold-out shows, and is performing all 23 characters in “The Tragedy of Hamlet” for local audiences through this weekend. But why did Austin make the cut on the activist and marathon runner's world tour? Izzard joins host Nikki DaVaughn to explain.  And don't forget — tonight is our City Cast Austin Trivia Night! Join us for a night of fun for all, with special perks for our City Cast Austin Neighbors (it's not too late to join and get said perks at membership.citycast.fm!). RSVP here.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.   Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 12th episode: City of Austin Window Nation Jeremiah Program Austin New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway

Austin is a Gen Z hotspot, ranking 8th in the U.S. in a recent report, with tens of thousands of the 20 to 24-year-olds in town. So, what is it about Austin that attracts these young adults, who celebrated milestones of their senior high school years on screen during the COVID-19 pandemic? And why are they throwing raves in coffee shops on Saturday mornings? Shouldn't they still be hungover? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Meher Yeda, a fact-checker with Texas Monthly who wrote about Gen Z, to better understand. Plus, Yeda fills us in on the real reason Gen Zers don't drink (hint: It's less IRL than you might think) and shares her predictions for what they'll be into in their 30s.   Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 11th episode: City of Austin Window Nation Jeremiah Program Austin New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway

If you were watching the Super Bowl in Austin on Sunday, you probably missed State Representative James Talarico's Senate campaign ad. That's because the Texas Democrat, raised money and purchased a $100,000 spot that aired exclusively in Houston. So was it money well spent? On this week's Tuesday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec to talk about the money fueling the Senate primary race, including why Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is coming up short on big-donor support. Plus, the latest construction headaches on I-35 and the reason Police Chief Lisa Davis was booed by community members last week.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 10th episode: City of Austin Window Nation Jeremiah Program Austin New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway

Austin has largely been spared the sweeping ICE raids seen in other U.S. cities, but incidents like a recent ICE chase that ended in a crash suggest enforcement activity is becoming more visible here. Did you know that a quarter of all ICE arrests happen in Texas? Executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec sits down with Krystal Gomez, managing attorney at Texas Immigration Law Council, to discuss what ICE operations look like on the ground and what to do if you're involved in or witness an ICE arrest. Remember: you have the right to remain silent.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our  City Cast Austin newsletter. And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 9th episode: City of Austin Window Nation Jeremiah Program Austin New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway

The Texas Education Agency released new guidance this week outlining potential consequences for school districts if students participate in political activism deemed “inappropriate.” The move comes after Gov. Greg Abbott and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton called for investigations into the Austin Independent School District following viral videos of mass student protests. On this week's Friday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn and producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec break down what the state guidance entails and what it could mean for student expression going forward. Plus, a look at which Austinites appeared in the Epstein files, and a peek at our weekend plans. Where are you getting chicken wings for Super Bowl Sunday? Let us know! And don't forget to RSVP to our trivia night next week. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE Learn more about the sponsors of this February 6th episode: City of Austin Window Nation 

You might know that Austin got its name from Stephen F. Austin, the father of Texas, but chances are you drive on streets, bridges, and past buildings named after other Austinites, and you have no idea who they are. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined today by Adam Powell, the executive director of the Austin History Center Association, who shares the stories behind some of Austin's namesakes, like the newspaper man who helped bring The University of Texas to Austin, the World War II vet-turned magician who made incredible clothing, the man who successfully challenged the so-called Hollywood blacklist, and the alderman who died in the fight to rename 19th Street after Martin Luther King, Jr.  This episode originally aired on Sept. 5, 2025.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 5th episode: City of Austin Window Nation

Citrus season is in full swing, which means H-E-B and other local grocery stores around Austin are bursting with juicy grapefruits, sweet tangerines, and plenty of other can't-miss-snacks. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by snack expert Emily Hill of Texas Grocery Finds, to fill you in on what items to add to your grocery list and why. From healthy finds like chili lime carrot shakers to indulgent treats like milk chocolate coconut truffles, they've got some ideas on how best to fill your fridge (and snack stash) right now.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 4th episode: City of Austin Window Nation

After testing a pilot security camera program for three years, Austin parks have seen a drop in crime. This week, the Austin Parks and Recreation Department will ask City Council for approval to expand the program. But amid concerns about mass surveillance and data privacy, what will council do? On today's Tuesday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec to break down the potential benefits and risks of the program. Plus, the team discusses a Texas task force gearing up to combat a deadly invasive fly, and why Gov. Greg Abbott and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton are investigating student protests. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 3rd episode: City of Austin Window Nation

It's officially February in Austin and that means love is in the air! But we know love comes in many forms. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and Aira Jay, host of Austin's favorite Queer Trivia, to bring you the best events around the city this month. Whether you're getting crafty with friends, learning something new with family, or rom-com-ing it up with a special flame, we've got you covered. And in case you missed it, Waffle House is now taking online reservations for Valentine's Day. What's more romantic than a plate of heart-shaped waffles? For even more tips on how to make the most of February in Austin, check out Hey Austin's take on what to do this month.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 2nd episode: City of Austin Window Nation

On Tuesday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott instructed all state agencies and public universities to pause new H1-B visa applications as he launches an investigation into the potential misuse of the federal program. For now, the directive applies only to those institutions but, could the crackdown eventually ripple out to private employers here in Austin? On this week's Friday News Roundup host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw to unpack what the move could mean for our city's workforce. Plus, with the deadline to register to vote in the March 3 primaries quickly approaching, the team shares everything you need to know about the upcoming election. And, of course, we get into our weekend plans. Want to sing Wicked with a group of strangers on Saturday? We've got you covered.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 30th episode: The SAFE Alliance Window Nation Zach Theater Visit Brenham Texas

A reality TV star recently announced her candidacy for Austin mayor, only to learn that the seat isn't quite open yet. Now, Farrah Abraham is set to run for city council — but can she? Plus, since voters shot down Austin City Council's request for more taxes, the city has shifted its focus to saving money. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Amy Stansbury of The Austin Common for the latest on Austin City Hall, including what the city's austerity plan actually looks like, and a new proposal to provide more affordable housing for middle-class Austinites.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 29th episode: The SAFE Alliance Window Nation Zach Theater Visit Brenham Texas

As Austin keeps getting bigger, so does its comedy scene, and lately it feels like everyone's talking about it. From national media attention to local comics breaking out and making it big, Austin comedy really seems to be having a moment. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by local comedian Izzy Burger, who hosts Ladies Night at the Velveeta Room; and Dave Buckman of ColdTowne Theater to discuss what's driving the boom, how the scene is changing, and the types of comics coming on the scene. Turns out, Joe Rogan's Comedy Mothership isn't the only force shaping Austin comedy right now, and it may not even be the most important one.  This episode originally aired on October 27, 2025.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 28th episode: The SAFE Alliance Window Nation Zach Theater Visit Brenham Texas

After 37-year-old Alex Pretti was shot and killed by the U.S. Border Patrol during an anti-ICE protest in Minneapolis on Saturday, Austinites are feeling increasingly anxious about the possibility of heightened immigration activity here at home. On our inaugural Tuesday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec to discuss how Austinites are responding, why there were concerns about ICE in town, and the local leaders including even Texas Gov. Greg Abbott who are calling on D.C. to rebuild public trust with ICE officials. Plus, we grade the city's response to Austin's winter storm and take a moment to hear directly from our listeners. If you're interested in learning more about LOVB Austin, like one of our listeners mentioned, find their schedule here. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 27th episode: The SAFE Alliance Window Nation Zach Theater Visit Brenham Texas

It's a new year, and even in Texas, that means there are new laws that can catch the unaware in a crime. But how well do you know our existing statutes — like our oyster-related felonies or the ordinance that says it's illegal to throw things off of Mount Bonnell? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Geoff Burkhart, Travis County Executive for Community Legal Services, to talk about new crimes for 2026 and the weird, wacky, and painful laws of Texas' past, including some that are still on the books and could come back to inflict more harm. Plus, Burkhart explains why Travis County is one of only a few in Texas that ensures people have legal representation at their first court appearance.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 26th episode: The SAFE Alliance Window Nation Zach Theater Visit Brenham Texas

You've probably heard that Austin is bracing for a winter storm this weekend. But, with posts circulating online exaggerating the severity, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. Fear not! On this week's Friday News Round Up, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Austin's own Avery Tomasco, meteorologist at CBS News, to break down the truth on what we can expect and how to best prepare for the freezing weather ahead. Plus, producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec weigh in on the local businesses suing the Trump Administration and share the best spots to try around town for mocktails before Dry January wraps up.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 23rd episode: Jeremiah Program Austin

Not wanting to miss any Awards Season fun, the City Cast Austin team is out with our very first “Best Of” episode — but you won't find these categories anywhere else. Tune in to hear host Nikki DaVaughn, producer Elissa Castles and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec debate on Austin's best places to find hotties, scream or cry in public after a breakup, and — this is a tough one — our best outdoor space. And, spoiler alert: We need your help with that last one. Weigh in once you finish listening!  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 22nd episode: Jeremiah Program Austin

As the climate has changed, Austin's allergy seasons have morphed into more of a year-round suffer fest, do-si-do-ing smoothly from cedar or juniper, to grass, then ragweed, and oak. And right now, we're in the thick of cedar season, which is absolutely loving this weather. Host Nikki DaVaughn, a victim of allergies herself, is joined today by Dr. Neha Reshamwala, doctor and founder of Frontier Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, to talk about why cedar is thriving this year, if it's actually getting worse from year to year, and how to treat cedar fever.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 21st episode: Jeremiah Program Austin

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis is changing the department's policy after a 5-year-old girl and her Honduran mother ended up in federal custody and then deported upon calling 9-1-1 for help. The incident has thrown into question exactly how local police interact with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which local city council members are insistent on keeping at a minimum. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Latino Communities reporter for the Austin American-Statesman, to get into the details of the recent case, the new policy, and what might come next.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 20th episode: Jeremiah Program Austin

After Renee Macklin Good was shot and killed by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent in Minnesota last week, protests erupted across the nation, including right here in Austin. Local protesters have flooded not only the Texas Capitol and Austin City Hall but also out in the suburbs, in Cedar Park, Round Rock, and Pflugerville. On this week's Friday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and Leslie Rangel, deputy managing editor at The Barbed Wire, to break down the ongoing demonstrations and what they signal about the growing resistance to federal immigration enforcement. Later, they dig into the sad passing of the Hole in the Wall founder, new ordering rules at Alamo Drafthouse, and why a group of incarcerated women were determined to raise money for a stray cat.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 16th episode: NAMI Central Texas Visit Brenham Texas

Kendra Scott rose to fame right here in Austin, building what is now a billion-dollar jewelry company. But there's more to her story than business success. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Texas Monthly contributor Dina Gachman, who recently wrote about Scott, to talk about her power and influence in Austin, why the city was fertile ground for growing her brand, and why giving back has always been a core part of the Kendra Scott business. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 15th episode: NAMI Central Texas Visit Brenham Texas

Is your New Year's resolution to make new friends? Don't worry Austinites, City Cast Austin has got you covered. Host Nikki DaVaughn gets the lowdown on how to make friends as an adult with Erinn Knight, co-founder of Where Y'all At Though; and Elle Beecher, who founded The Board Walks. With the loneliness epidemic still popping up in the news, it is more important than ever to build connection and community. So don't miss their tips on avoiding “energetic B.O.,” and rebuilding the social skills the pandemic atrophied. This episode originally aired August 20, 2025. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 14th episode: NAMI Central Texas Visit Brenham Texas

At the end of every year, major dictionaries crown an official “Word of the Year.” This year's picks included “slop,” “rage-bait,” and “parasocial.” So naturally, the team started wondering, what would Austin's word be? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec to peer into their crystal balls and decide which word will best define Austin in the year ahead. Do you have thoughts on what the word should be? Let us know, text us or leave a voicemail.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 13th episode: NAMI Central Texas Visit Brenham Texas

About 10 people and 200 homes were lost in the July flooding on Sandy Creek, many of which were in Travis County. After millions of dollars spent and earmarked for recovery efforts, and nearly six months have gone by, how are the flood survivors faring? KXAN's Grace Reader joins host Nikki DaVaughn to talk about her recent reporting on Travis County's 9-1-1 call logs from the July 5 emergency, and what the calls revealed about how calls for help were answered and addressed. Plus, they discuss what's different about flood victims in Travis County compared to Kerr County, where more than 100 people were killed and one Camp Mystic camper remains missing. And, catch up on KXAN's investigation into warning systems along the Guadalupe River here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 12th episode: NAMI Central Texas Visit Brenham Texas Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Austin city staff has settled on a recommendation for redesigning Sixth Street, and there's one thing missing in this bicycle-friendly town: Bike lanes. In today's Friday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw and contributor Eric Webb to talk about the new plan. And, in a new lawsuit filed in federal court in Austin, the Texas American Federation of Teachers is challenging the state over investigations tied to social media posts in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's death. Plus, of course, we've got options for your weekend plans — which should include supporting local musicians and venues at Free Week — and just so you know, the weather should be delightful.  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 9th episode: Zach Theater The SAFE Alliance New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway Moontower Comedy Festival Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

On January 8, 1969, two University of Texas students were brutally murdered and the city of Austin barely noticed. Amid the nation's first modern mass shooting, political violence littering the end of the decade, and the escalating Vietnam War, this shocking crime slipped through the cracks. But why was such a violent act erased from public memory? Host Nikki DeVaughn sits down with Texas Monthly contributor Stephen Harrigan to investigate the forgotten murder, explore why it remained hidden for decades, and uncover the story Austin never knew it had. This episode originally aired on April 21, 2025 Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 8th episode: Zach Theater The SAFE Alliance New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway Moontower Comedy Festival

Over the weekend, President Donald Trump arrested and captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, vowing to seize control of the country's rich oil industry. But the impacts of this international escapade can be felt right here at home in Austin. Host Nikki DaVaughn chats with Hearst columnist Chris Tomlinson to dig into the long-standing relationship between Texas and Venezuela, how these developments could strain small local oil producers, and why Austinites should be paying close attention.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 7th episode: Zach Theater The SAFE Alliance New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway Moontower Comedy Festival

From fancy New Year's Eve celebrations to setting intentions and resolutions, and participating in Dry January, traditions abound this time of year in Austin. So, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec to debate which annual celebrations of the passage of time we love, and which we hate. Plus, the City Cast Austin team shares a few 2026 resolutions for the City of Austin — including one that appears to already be underway.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 6th episode: Zach Theater The SAFE Alliance New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway Moontower Comedy Festival

Nobody understands a city's pulse quite like a City Cast host — and that makes them the best predictors for 2026's biggest local stories. City Cast Austin host Nikki DaVaughn joins CEO David Plotz and the other 12 hosts from across the network to talk about the big changes coming to our cities, from political shifts to data centers. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our ⁠Hey Austin newsletter⁠.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠  Follow us ⁠@citycastaustin⁠ You can also ⁠text us or leave a voicemail⁠.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info ⁠HERE⁠  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 5th episode: ⁠Zach Theater⁠ ⁠The SAFE Alliance⁠ ⁠New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway⁠ ⁠Moontower Comedy Festival⁠

Austin really does have it all: stage shows and live music, scenic hiking trails, and a food scene that never stops surprising. The variety the city has to offer is next level, and this month, the mix is especially on point. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and guest J. Summar to guide you through the plates, places, and performances worth checking out right now. From Austin's Free Week to Comadre Panadería's Earl Grey concha, we're serving up a wide-ranging look at what to see, what to eat, and where to be around Austin this month.  For even more tips on how to make the most of January in Austin, check out Hey Austin's take on what to do this month.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 2nd episode: NAMI Central Texas Simply Eloped

Austin's new million-dollar logo caused a lot of controversy this year and despite petitions to “stop” it, it is officially up and running on the city's social media accounts and website. The wavy A, in colors inspired by our “greenbelts, lakes, skyline sunsets, and bluebonnets,” replaces a seal that was designed as part of a contest back in 1916, as well as hundreds of department-specific logos. But will Austinites ever be okay with the exorbitant cost? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Jessica King, Austin's chief communications director; and Yasmin Wagner, the city's web and creative services manager, to discuss.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE