City Cast Boise

We're back with another edition of our Friday news roundup. Executive producer Frankie Barnhill joins host Lindsay Van Allen to discuss how federal budget cuts are already affecting our outdoor recreation options, with forest ranger stations closing just as summer begins to heat up. Then, they untangle Boise Pride rumors by setting the record straight on what's actually canceled and what folks can expect in September. Plus, come meet Lindsay this weekend at Canyon County Pride!  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Canyon County Pride is back, and it's bigger and bolder than in 2024. But after a year where LGBTQ rights have been under fire, this year's event is more than just a party. Executive Director Tom Wheeler joins host Lindsay Van Allen to give us a look inside how this year's festival is growing and evolving. They talk about safety, acceptance, and what it means to celebrate queer joy in a conservative stronghold.  Celebrate Canyon County Pride on Sunday, June 8 at Nampa's Lakeview Park!  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wolves were wiped out in Idaho nearly a century ago, then controversially reintroduced in the 1990s. Now, they are thriving — but the battle over the animal's future is fiercer than ever. So host Lindsay Van Allen is digging into the political and cultural divides around wolves with the hosts of a new podcast called “Howl”. Reporters Heath Druzin and Clark Corbin are helping us understand what it means to share the Mountain West with these creatures, and who gets to decide their fate. Follow “Howl” here or wherever you listen to podcasts. And mark your calendars for Clark and Heath's June 17 event featuring some of the people involved in wolf reintroduction 30 year ago.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Forget fiscal constraint and local control: Idaho's new wave of conservative lawmakers are pushing conspiracies and government overreach. Consultant Gregory Graf joins host Lindsay Van Allen to explain his viral, blistering critique of the state's far-right political machine. Because if banning vaccines, bullying librarians, and punishing dissent is the new conservative playbook — what exactly are they conserving?   Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Inama hung the poster intending to welcome every student to her West Ada School District classroom. Instead, when she was told to take the sign down by school administrators, it ignited a national firestorm. Now, the Meridian teacher is reflecting on the controversy she never wanted, and what spurred her to resign. What's next for her? Host Lindsay Van Allen is finding out.   Thanks to Brigade Screen Printing (who made the “Everyone is Welcome Here” t-shirt) for helping us out.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before we head into the hot weekend, we're taking a look at the local stories you need to know with Boise State Public Radio's George Prentice. First up: Idaho hit pause on all executions, but just to prep for our firing squad future. Next, host Lindsay Van Allen gets the inside scoop from George on his final interview with Boise State University President Marlene Tromp, and they speculate about who might get the top job next. Plus, summer movie nights return to Meridian, bringing the perfect excuse to lounge under the stars. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this May 30th episode:  Savor Idaho 2025 Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June in the Treasure Valley is stacked with good vibes and even better plans. Host Lindsay Van Allen and contributor Matthew Melton are here to help you make the most out of the month — from free riverside karaoke to joyful Pride celebrations and wild history tours. Plus, throw in a beloved restaurant reopening and a tasty new find, and you've got a month full of reasons to get out and explore. If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Boise community.  For even more tips on how to make the most of June in Boise, check out our Hey Boise newsletter for recommendations every weekday morning.  Learn more about the sponsor of this May 29th episode: Savor Idaho 2025 Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” is back for a second season. And while it's entertaining to watch these women fight for views, brand deals, and MomTok's survival — are they also showcasing some of Mormonism's most uncomfortable truths? We're re-sharing a chat our host Lindsay Van Allen had with City Cast Salt Lake's Ali Vallarta to find out. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this May 28th episode:  Savor Idaho 2025 Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Valley Regional Transit is one of the only public transit systems with zero dedicated annual funding from the state. So, how does it operate with such limited funding — and what would it take to make riding the bus more popular? Host Lindsay Van Allen finds out in her conversation with VRT CEO Elaine Clegg. They dive into what last year's route changes have meant for riders, why the City of Nampa is on the fence about funding, and how innovation is key to keeping things rolling.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this May 27th episode: Savor Idaho 2025 Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pride Month is around the corner, but one of Idaho's biggest health systems is making a quiet and controversial shift. Our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter joins host Lindsay Van Allen with the scoop on an internal memo that reveals why St. Luke's decided not to raise the inclusive Pride flag this year, even as the City of Boise stands firm. And, we're breaking down local election results on everything from libraries to ambulances. Plus, our favorite ideas for soaking up the sunny Memorial Day weekend.Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning.Learn more about the sponsor of this May 23rd episode: Savor Idaho 2025Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE.Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For years, Idaho quietly denied thousands of children the special education services that parents said they deserved, until a group of determined mothers decided to take a stand. Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by Decoding Dyslexia Idaho founder Robin Zikmund, and special education consultant Ashley Brittain. They explain how our state resisted reform and why parents had to take their fight all the way to the federal government.   Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the Arts & Entertainment section here.  Learn more about the sponsor of this May 22nd episode: Savor Idaho 2025 Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With everything getting more expensive, we wanted to know if it's still feasible to have fun in Boise on a budget. Our City Cast Boise team had $50 and one mission: to have the best day possible. While some of us splurged early, others hunted for deals — but was $50 enough for a great day in the City of Trees? Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the Arts & Entertainment section here.  Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Homes in Boise ⁠⁠have been⁠⁠⁠⁠ getting smaller⁠⁠ — but is that a sign of progress or just another form of shrinkflation? We're revisiting our conversation about this ongoing trend with Idaho Statesman reporter Nick Rosenberger. From zoning code changes to shifting lifestyles — what could these downsized houses mean for affordability in our city?  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our ⁠⁠Hey Boise newsletter⁠⁠ where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the ⁠⁠Arts & Entertainment section here⁠⁠.  Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've been named one of the best communities to raise a family, but are we actually creating a place our kids want to live? Boise City Council just launched a Youth Roadmap survey to find out. City Council member Jimmy Hallyburton joins host Lindsay Van Allen to explore how it could shape community initiatives for years to come and whether young people will really get a say in our future. Here's the Youth Roadmap survey. City officials are asking that teens, parents, community members, and even younger kids offer their input and suggestions.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to our city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the Arts & Entertainment section here.  Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We made it to Friday, and host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by political scientist Charlie Hunt to dig into the week's biggest local stories. Congressman Mike Simpson is making moves on public land protection, but can a bipartisan caucus hold back big development plans? And the Greater Boise Auditorium District elections could shape our city's event scene. Plus, Meridian is unveiling a new ninja course designed to make sure a little girl's dream lives on in a powerful way. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the Arts & Entertainment section here.  Learn more about the sponsor of this May 16th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boiseans take great pride in our state's iconic outdoor scenery, but host Lindsay Van Allen learns that not everyone is a fan. So, today on the show, Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter and contributor Rachel Spacek are taking a hike through the silliest one-star reviews of Idaho's most beloved outdoor locations and trying to guess where the complainers were. Do these critics have legit grievances, or were they expecting luxury in the Foothills? We learned Lower Hulls Gulch Trail does follow an odd/even separation of use strategy. Click here to learn more. Also, here's the article and podcast episode about Table Rock Cross that we mention in the show. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the Arts & Entertainment section here.  Learn more about the sponsor of this May 15th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When the Great Recession hit in 2008, Boisean Heather Wheeler turned clipping coupons into a big-time business, founding The Krazy Coupon Lady. Now, Heather is joining host Lindsay Van Allen with advice for weathering whatever's coming next. We're learning how to tell a real deal from a gimmick, what Gen Z can learn from millennials who weathered the last recession, and how to upgrade your coupon game in 2025.   Want some more Boise insider info? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the Arts & Entertainment section here.  Learn more about the sponsor of this May 14th episode:  Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off  Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring might just be the Foothills' finest season, if you know where to look. Luckily for us, contributor Heath Druzin has helpful insider tips to get you outside. He joins host Lindsay Van Allen to talk about the best hiking trails, where to find the blooming wildflowers, and what you need to know about trail safety and etiquette. Plus, he reveals a secret trail that has been gate-kept until today.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the Arts & Entertainment section here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this May 13th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wildfire season is just around the corner. And even though the Foothills are still green, fire seasons are getting longer, hotter, and more dangerous. Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by Idaho Statesman reporter Sarah Cutler, who breaks down what could happen when a major fire hits, what to do when it does, and whether Boise residents and insurance systems are truly prepared. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Help us win “Best Podcast” in the Boise Weekly's annual Best of Boise awards! Vote for us in the Arts & Entertainment section here.  Learn more about the sponsor of this May 12th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday, so host Lindsay Van Allen and executive producer Frankie Barnhill are diving into the week's biggest local stories. First, they chat through the Boise City Council's decision to make the Pride flag an official city flag, sparking heated conversations and making national news. Then, they remind us about the May 20 library board elections, which are becoming the next front in Idaho's culture wars. And to head into the weekend, we're celebrating the warm weekend forecast on a beloved restaurant's brand new patio.  For more on what will be on your May 20 ballot, check out our Hey Boise article. And here's where to early vote through Friday, May 16.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this May 9th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYBOISE for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is a certain beauty culture that has been expected in LDS circles in Utah for generations, but do those ideals actually have the same influence in Boise? Host Lindsay Van Allen and ex-Mormon Quincy Phillips are sharing their experience handling the pressure to be perfect. From MomTok to modesty, they unpack how Mormonism shaped their idea of what's beautiful in Idaho — and whether it's really different than the standards in Utah. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this May 8th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're thinking about a home remodel soon, tariffs could be changing your timeline — and your budget. So, we're checking in with a Treasure Valley-based contractor about what's going on at these job sites. Mary Peters is the CEO of Sasquatch Contracting, and she's sharing which home projects are most at risk of sticker shock, and some surprising intel about what raw home materials are still made in the U.S. Plus, she shares insider tips for avoiding tariff price hikes during your remodel.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this May 7th episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What makes a great Boise park? From relaxing hangouts to playground romps, parks in our city are top-notch. But besides the popular Camel's Back and Ann Morrison Parks — there are some secret green spaces you need to check out. So, to celebrate spring, we're resharing our top five park rankings with Becca Bailey from Boise With Kids and Marissa Lovell with From Boise. We're talking BBQ setups, ideal playgrounds, the best places to picnic or play volleyball — and the best places to enjoy a beer in a park.  Want some more Boise recommendations? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this May 6th episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYBOISE for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Old homes are coming down all over the city, with new denser housing often filling their place. But Idaho Statesman reporter Nick Rosenberger is here to talk about something invisible and dangerous that may be stirred up during demolition: asbestos. Contractors are worried about it, and other states in our region regulate it. So host Lindsay Van Allen wants to know — why is Idaho ignoring it? Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning.Learn more about the sponsor of this May 5th episode:Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCASTInterested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE.Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're back with another Friday news download, starting with a story about Cybertrucks in the Treasure Valley. Owners of the Tesla vehicles are being shamed, and the trucks are being vandalized. Is it justified backlash against Elon Musk and the Trump Administration, or does it cross the line? Meanwhile, state lawmakers quietly ended public pool inspections, raising questions about summer safety. And Idaho Gives is closing out strong, while a local foundation helps students thanks to… the Hokey Pokey. KTVB's Brian Holmes joins host Lindsay Van Allen, this week, to break down the latest Treasure Valley stories. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this May 2nd episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYBOISE for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's officially May, and it might be Boise at its best. Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by producer Evelyn Avitia and contributor Matthew Melton to bring you a guide this month packed with experiences that will make you fall in love with this city all over again. From how to take advantage of the spring weather, to a late evening market for the night owls, and can't-miss Treasure Valley festivals — we've got you covered. Click here to purchase your Taste of Wine Festival ticket!  If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Boise community.  Want some more intel on May in Boise? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get fresh recommendations every weekday morning.  Learn more about the sponsor of this May 1st episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First came the parking meters in downtown Caldwell, then came the outrage from local residents. The City of Caldwell's Mayor Jarom Wagoner and four council members are facing a recall effort that's exposing deep divisions over policing, growth, and trust in city leadership. Producer Evelyn Avitia joins host Lindsay Van Allen to break down who is behind the push, and what it would take to succeed.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 30th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a year of relentless political attacks on LGBTQ+ rights in Idaho, just existing as a trans or nonbinary person can feel exhausting. Trans Joy Boise co-founders Preston Pacey and Bonnie Violet Quintana are joining host Lindsay Van Allen to show how, even in the face of cruel policies and attacks, there's a local movement happening toward connection, joy, and resilience.  Want some more Boise stories and conversation? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 29th episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYBOISE for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The dust is settling on the 2025 Idaho legislative session, so what new laws will affect Boiseans? We're finding out how far-right lawmakers might have made our community a target with the City of Boise's Kathy Griesmyer. From a policy taking power away from the city over child care, to a bill that will penalize our homeless population, to a standoff over the Pride flag hanging at City Hall — there's a lot to parse. Plus, host Lindsay Van Allen asks whether diplomacy with the ultra-conservative legislature is still a viable strategy.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 28th episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another Friday is here, and Boise's showdown with the Idaho Legislature over the Pride flag flying outside City Hall continues. So our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter is joining host Lindsay Van Allen to ask big questions about what this standoff says about local power, inclusivity, and our city's identity. Meanwhile, Governor Little wants to reshape forest policy to fight wildfires, but will it yield the results he wants? And if you need a breather from everything that's going on, we've got weekend recommendations for yoga and a sound bath, plus a new art installation to check out.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 25th episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYBOISE for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Treasure Valley takes its sandwiches seriously, so our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter and host Lindsay Van Allen are diving into the city's best breaded options. From listener favorites to our own go-to orders—plus a new sandwich menu worth waiting in line for. We also get into sandwich pet peeves, picnic prep, and what flavors we think Boise's still missing.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 24th episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Idaho's teachers are gearing up to elect their next state union leader, and the stakes couldn't be higher. From the Trump Administration's dismantling of the Department of Education, to the Idaho Legislature targeting public education, to ongoing debates about DEI and politics in Treasure Valley classrooms — there's a lot going on. Candidate and special education teacher Alicia Purdy joins host Lindsay Van Allen to discuss her vision to create inclusive, welcoming spaces for every learner while also elevating educator's voices. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 23rd episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boise resident Matthew Allison has been described as a “goofy, local electronic music enthusiast” by those who have come across him. But how well did his friends actually know him? Last September, Matthew was arrested for creating and spreading violent extremist online content that led to real-world murders. ProPublica reporter James Bandler joins host Lindsay Van Allen to dig into the double life of the man behind a deadly propaganda ring called “Terrorgram” — and why he chose Boise as his home base. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 22nd episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYBOISE for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're sharing something a little different this time: it's our first show recorded in front of a live audience! Last week, host Lindsay Van Allen was joined on stage at the Boise Depot with Mayor Lauren McLean and Valley Regional Transit CEO Elaine Clegg — who is also on the Amtrak board. They tackled a big, thorny question: will passenger rail service ever return to the Treasure Valley? Or is train travel connecting us to Salt Lake, Portland, Denver, and beyond just a nostalgic pipe dream?  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 21st episode:  Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're rounding up the news of the week, beginning with a political rally that drew over 12,000 people to Nampa on Monday. Host Lindsay Van Allen and political scientist Charlie Hunt are discussing why Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-New York) stopped in Idaho. And in Boise, a back-and-forth over a new state law has made the Pride flag outside City Hall a political hot potato, with Attorney General Raúl Labrador weighing in. Meanwhile, Micron is making moves too — quietly deleting DEI language from its website.  We're also looking ahead to the Boise River Marathon and celebrating spring the Idaho way — with Mormon cheesy potatoes. To follow Lindsay's recipe, thaw out your hash browns first then mix all the ingredients below together in a bowl. Bake in a 9x13 pan uncovered at 350 degrees for 45 minutes: 2lbs of hash browns (frozen) 1 can of cream of chicken soup 1 pink of sour cream 1 C. Velveeta Cheese 1/2 C. grated onion 1/2 C. melted butter 1 teaspoon salt  1/4 tsp. pepper Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 18th episode:  Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off  Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some Boise residents have taken out loans and installed solar power panels on their rooftops in hopes of building equity. But now, Idaho Power has proposed changing the math — dramatically slashing the credits rates that many homeowners expected to rely on. Host Lindsay Van Allen and Idaho Capital Sun reporter Mia Maldonado are diving into the controversy and breaking down what's at stake for Idaho's energy future. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 17th episode:  Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off  Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meridian is drowning in chicken sandwiches — spicy, crispy, wrapped — this suburb is packed with poultry. So our host Lindsay Van Allen did what any irrationally curious person would do, and she tried them all. Today on the show, we're revisiting her ultimate guide to Meridian's chicken scene, originally recorded last spring.  Since this episode was initially published, The Chicken Shanty in Meridian has closed. Lindsay's since given the crown to Burnin' Mouth for their Nashville hot chicken sandwich.  Let us know who has your favorite chicken sandwich by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 16th episode:  Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off  Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After years of hustle and dreaming, the Treasure Valley has finally landed both a men's and women's professional soccer team. Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by Boise Pro Soccer co-founder Bill Taylor to take a look at how Boise is breaking records even before the first kickoff, and what these teams will mean for the City of Trees. Plus, Lindsay bats around potential team names ideas!  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 15th episode:  Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off  Cozy Earth - Use code COZYBOISE for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The spring housing market has long been considered the best time to buy a home in Boise — but is that still true in 2025? HomeFound Group realtor and co-founder Michael Miller joins host Lindsay Van Allen to break down the ripple effects of tariffs on new construction, what a recession could mean for local prices, and how much politics are shaping where people choose to live in the Treasure Valley.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 14th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The city unveiled some new flag designs, and Boiseans were not having it. Our producer Frankie Barnhill is joining host Lindsay Van Allen to break down the critiques and lessons community leaders learned from this experiment. Meanwhile, Avelo Airlines is ditching Boise flights and facing scrutiny for its work with ICE. And, choo choo! We're gearing up for our live show at the Boise Depot next Tuesday, where we'll find out if the future of passenger trains in Idaho is on track. See you at our live podcast taping on Tuesday, April 15 from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. as part of the City of Boise's centennial celebration of the Depot! Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Treasure Valley gardeners are feeling the heat as record high temperatures test their gardens.  Today on the podcast, we're revisiting our conversation with master gardener Gretchen Anderson to find out what the USDA's new hardiness zone map means for local planting. Plus, host Lindsay Van Allen gets Gretchen's tips on how to make your garden thrive, despite our changing climate.  Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're jogging on the Greenbelt or training in the Boise Foothills, local runners claim our town is the best running city. But Boise Run Club's Chandler Underwood explains it's not just about running — it's about finding community, discovering hidden views, and falling in love with Boise in a whole new way. From beginner tips to expert runs, we've got your spring guide to running around the Treasure Valley. Let us know where you like to run by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise insider tips? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you'll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more info HERE. Reach us at boise@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices