City Cast Madison

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Join us every weekday morning for can’t-miss conversations about what’s happening in Madison, with a dose of local news to keep you up to speed. Host Bianca Martin collects people wherever she goes, like an endless conga line. On City Cast Madison, she peers into our city’s soul with a journalist’s skepticism and an optimist’s heart.

City Cast


    • Jun 27, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 24m AVG DURATION
    • 621 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The City Cast Madison podcast is a delightful and informative podcast that offers an engaging look into the city of Madison. Hosted by Bianca, Dylan, and Molly, this podcast provides insightful stories, goofy commentary, and fun event reminders in each episode. With a runtime of less than 20 minutes, it's perfect for listeners who want to start their day with a dose of positivity and information about their local community.

    One of the best aspects of The City Cast Madison is the diversity of its episodes. The podcast features a good mix of discussions and fascinating interviews that cover a wide range of topics related to the city. Listeners can expect to learn something new in each episode, whether it's about local events, community initiatives, or interesting people in Madison. Additionally, the library card episode stands out as particularly revelatory, providing valuable information about an overlooked resource.

    Bianca's positivity shines through in every episode and is one of the highlights of this podcast. Her enthusiasm for all things Madison is infectious and helps set the tone for a great listening experience. Furthermore, her ability to draw people in and make them want to keep listening is commendable. Alongside Molly and Dylan's contributions both on and off mic, they form a dynamic power team that ensures a high-quality production.

    However, one area where The City Cast Madison falls short is in its lack of recognition for important events outside of Madison. While it excels at keeping listeners up-to-date with local happenings, there seems to be missed opportunities to acknowledge significant events such as International Women's Day. This could be addressed by incorporating episodes that celebrate amazing women from Madison or discussing broader topics that resonate with a wider audience.

    In conclusion, The City Cast Madison is a fantastic podcast that offers local insight into the vibrant city of Madison. With its enjoyable format, engaging host, and diverse range of topics covered, this podcast provides great value for listeners who want to stay connected with their community. Despite some missed opportunities, the overall quality and heart of this podcast make it a must-listen for anyone interested in learning more about Madison.



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    Latest episodes from City Cast Madison

    Summer Floodin', Education Budgets, and Supreme Court Roundup

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 44:41


    It's that time of the week again — time for the Friday news roundup! This week the City Cast Madison crew is here to give you the (soggy) details on this week's flooding, explain some highs and lows happening around education funding, and give you the scoop on the latest decisions from the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Plus, don't get stuck in Morgan Wallen traffic this weekend.  Mentioned on the show: Get Your Home in Tip Top Shape This Spring [

    Meet the Team Behind Madison's Smash Hit Food Truck

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 23:46


    Now that it's food truck season in Madison, keep an eye out for that big, purple truck that took the city by storm last year! This purveyor of smash burgers and churros, Cinn City Smash, is just starting its third year making the rounds at local bars and festivals. So, we're bringing back a conversation host Bianca Martin had with the truck's owners — and long-time friends — Rutger Schiesser and Maximus “Noodle” Perdomo, about how they got started, their secret to success, and why you should give their food a try. This show originally aired October 17, 2024. Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers.Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram! Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Go Beyond Picnic Point With These Madison Hiking Trails

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 29:03


    Water bottle? Check. Sunscreen? Check. Hiking shoes and thick socks?? Check and check. Summer is the best time to get outside and explore Madison's hiking trails. From the Lakeshore Nature Preserve to the UW-Madison Arboretum, there's no shortage of places to explore around the isthmus. To get the scoop on the best trails for every ability and occasion, we turned to local author and the new Madison Public Library naturalist-in-residence, Andrea Debbink.  Check out Andrea's guide to Madison's trails here and learn more about her residency events here.

    Your Guide to 2025 Concerts on the Square

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 32:18


    What do Motown, Mozart, and “Dark Side of the Moon” all have in common? The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra will be paying tribute to all of them in their annual six-week free outdoor concert series. Concerts on the Square is a Madison summer favorite that will attract thousands to the capitol each Wednesday through the end of July. Will you be one of them? To learn more, executive producer Hayley Sperling chats with WCO Music Director Andrew Sewell about what is in store this year, and what you should know before you go.

    Trump's ‘Big Beautiful Bill' Is Threatening Abortion Access in Madison

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 27:49


    As it stands, abortion access in Wisconsin is extremely limited. Of the 72 counties in the state, only three have abortion providers. That limited access hinges on the next few weeks. Any day now, the Wisconsin Supreme Court is expected to rule on the validity of an 1849 law which some interpret as an abortion ban. Meanwhile, national lawmakers are working on a budget reconciliation bill – One Big Beautiful Bill Act – which in part includes defunding Planned Parenthood.  To understand what is at stake, host Bianca Martin spoke with Planned Parenthood Wisconsin's CEO Tanya Atkinson and manager of Planned Parenthood - Madison South Health Center Tenisha Garner.  Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Here's What 13 US Cities Are Talking About This Summer | A City Cast Madison Special

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 62:09


    City Cast hosts are on the pulse of what's happening in our communities. So Bianca Martin and all 12 other hosts sat down with City Cast CEO David Plotz to talk about creative local problem solving that might work in your hometown too and to commiserate about stressors affecting most of our cities, from unaffordable housing to bike lanes. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 20th episode: Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C. Wisco Home Goods Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Merchant by Rule No. One Hospitality Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    What to Know About Protesting in Madison

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025 29:28


    An estimated 15,000 people flooded the streets of Madison in the “No Kings” protest last  weekend, pushing back against the Trump administration. But as tensions between law enforcement and demonstrators continue to escalate across the country, it's more important than ever to know your rights — and how to stay safe while making your voice heard. City Cast Madison executive producer Hayley Sperling talked with Ryan Cox, Legal Director for the ACLU of Wisconsin, about the DOs and DON'Ts of protesting. From knowing what to bring to understanding your legal protections, we've got you covered. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Can Madison Ditch Fast Fashion?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 30:12


    Have you ever looked at the tag on your shirt and stopped to wonder who grew your clothes? In a world where roughly 30% of the microplastics in our oceans come from synthetic clothing material, it's more critical than ever to build a connection to the fibers we wear every day. As the founder of the Midwest Linen Revival, Leslie Schroeder is leading a movement in Madison to make the fashion industry more sustainable. The Midwest Linen Revival is hosting a three-day event series called “Field To Frock” to build awareness for a local, sustainable fashion ecosystem. 

    One Madison Lawmaker's Fight To Protect Black Women

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 36:44


    Wisconsin is failing to protect Black women and girls from violence and murder, according to state Rep. Shelia Stubbs. And she has the numbers to back that claim up. In 2020, Black women in Wisconsin were 20 times more likely to be murdered than white women, according to a study from Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Columbia Mailman School of Public Health. So what's going wrong and how do we fix it? We spoke with Stubbs, who is pushing for legislation on the issue, to get to the root of the matter.  Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Special Election, Anti-Trump Protest, and Weekend Summer Fun

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 31:30


    It's Friday the 13th and you're in luck! The City Cast Madison team is here to round up the news of the week. Did you know there's a special election on Tuesday? Host Bianca Martin has the details for Dane County Supervisor District 1 residents. Speaking of politics, expect floods of people to hit the streets this Saturday as part of the worldwide “No Kings” protest. But wait, there's more! This weekend is bringing a host of festivities  and Madison Minutes newsletter editor Rob Thomas has you covered. 

    The Best Madison Patios For Drinking and Chilling This Summer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 31:13


    It's patio season y'all! Are you ready for rooftops, lake fronts, and hidden gems? Cap Times food and culture editor Lindsay Christians joins the show to dish on what's new around town and give her recommendations for every patio occasion. Plus, she's got the latest on what new cocktails and spirits you can expect to see at bars around town. Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Dive into Madison's Best Swimming Spots

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2025 17:18


    Warm weather is here and thankfully, the Madison area is full of beaches and pools that are perfect for cooling off on those hot summer days. To round up the best spots around town, we caught up with Alisa Sleep, co-founder of the Madison Family parenting site, formerly known as Madison Mom. Alisa shared her favorite spots and what she keeps in mind before getting in the water. Ready to dive in?

    How to Make The Most of Madison's Jazziest Week

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 39:23


    The Madison Jazz Festival is live! The decades-long running fest brings music from one end of town to the other all this week– most of it free. Host Bianca Martin talked to the two organizers of the event, Wisconsin Union Theater artist services manager Kate Schwartz and Arts + Literature Laboratory co-director Jolynne Roorda, about their vision for the festival. Then, as a special treat, Bianca talks to multi-Grammy winning pianist Arturo O'Farrill, who closes the festival on the UW Memorial Union Terrace on Sunday, about why jazz is good for the soul.  Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    What Pushed Meriter Nurses To Strike

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 30:21


    It's been just over a week since UnityPoint Health-Meriter nurses ended their strike and got back to work with a new contract in hand. Roughly 1,000 unionized nurses walked off the job May 27 to demand better safety measures, pay increases, and adequate staffing levels. To get a better picture of what conditions are like inside the hospitals and what the nurses were fighting for, executive producer Hayley Sperling spoke with Pat Raes, president of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Wisconsin and a nurse at the hospital. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Nurses' Historic Win, Pride Flag Controversy, and Ahan Plans Overflow Bar

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 24:52


    Happy Friday! The end of the work week means it's time for the Friday news roundup.  Striking Meriter nurses return to work after ratifying a new two-year contract. And controversy grows over the Wisconsin Historical Society's decision to break tradition and not fly the pride flag. Host Bianca Martin is joined by Madison Minutes newsletter editor Rob Thomas to discuss it all. Plus, if you've ever waited for a table at Ahan, you'll be excited about a new bar coming to Willy Street! We're also super stoked to be in the running for Madison Magazine's 2025 Best of Madison competition and would love your support! Vote for City Cast Madison in the Best Local Podcast and Local News Website categories. Mentioned on the show: Meriter nurses ratify historic contract after 5-day strike [WKOW]Wisconsin Historical Society won't raise pride flag, after years of flying it [WPR] Wisconsin Historical Society employees respond to decision not to raise Pride flag [Ch. 3000] Ahan co-owners to open new bar on Williamson Street [Madison Magazine]Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Who's Got the Best Ice Cream in Madison?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 37:27


    I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Wisconsin is America's Dairyland, so you can bet Madison knows a thing or two about ice cream. But with such an abundance of flavors to choose from, whose cream reigns supreme? The whole City Cast Madison crew is on a mission to find out. Listen in as we eat our way through Madison's best ice cream. You'll never guess who our favorite is.

    It's Crunch Time For the Wisconsin Supreme Court

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 26:57


    The Wisconsin Supreme Court is expected to issue a host of decisions on some major legal cases this month. What's the rush? Justice Ann Walsh Bradley is retiring and the justices must issue decisions on all of the cases they've heard arguments for before the term ends on June 30. The clock is  ticking. To get the details on the court's inner workings and the cases before it, we spoke with Erin McGroarty, the state government and disinformation reporter at the Cap Times.  ⚖️ Plus, the jury is still out on this year's Best of Madison winners and we're looking for your support! Vote for us in Madison Magazine's 2025 Best of Madison contest! We're in the running for best local podcast and news website.  Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    What To Expect From Madison's Newest Music Venue

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 30:46


    Been to any good shows lately? Madison is getting a brand new music venue in a historic east side building later this month. Atwood Music Hall opens June 13 with a star-studded show and continues the month with a nod to all the talent Madison has to offer. Ahead of the opening, host Bianca Martin sat down with venue owner Toffer Christensen to learn about the new space and get his takes on where Madison's music scene is thriving and where it's falling flat.

    How Queer Friendly is Madison, Really?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 33:17


    It's officially June, which means it's Pride Month, y'all! On paper, Madison is a pretty queer-friendly city. Many of our government officials, from City Council to the U.S. Senate, identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. The city and county are both self-proclaimed trangender sanctuaries. We also have tons of queer-owned businesses, several LGBTQ+ non-profits, and drag shows galore. But even with all of that, there's still room for growth. So today we're asking the question — how queer friendly is Madison, really?  Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Nurses Strike, Missing Boater Recovered, New Building Developments in Bloom

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 33:36


    It may have been a shortened week but that doesn't mean it wasn't a newsy one! The City Cast Madison team is here for the Friday news roundup to fill you in on the stories you need to know. Host Bianca Martin has the latest on the historic UnityPoint Health - Meriter nurses strike. Producer Jade Iseri-Ramos gives a sobering update on the search for a missing boater on Lake Monona. And executive producer Hayley Sperling gives the scoop on some new apartments popping up around town.  Mentioned on the show: Madison hotel with chronic police calls reopens as a studio apartment building [Wisconsin State Journal] First tenants enter Bakers Place, Madison's mass timber high-rise [Cap Times] Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Your Guide To June 2025 in Madison

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 33:54


    Summer is here! The city is buzzing with life and the City Cast Madison team is here with tips for how to make the most out of June in Madison. From festivals and flotillas to pinball and heavy metal, there's truly something for everyone. Are you ready for it? Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Don't Miss Morel Season in Madison

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 21:00


    It's mushroom season y'all! And more importantly, it's morel mushroom season. These coveted fungi can fetch $50 per pound at your local farmers' market. But they're free to pick in state parks and forests — if you can find them. So where do you look? We turned to expert Melissa Klotka to find out. This show originally aired on May 25, 2023. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Madison's Most Toxic Traits

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 37:36


    None of us are perfect. Everyone's got that thing they do as a Madisonian that could be considered toxic, whether it's actually hurting somebody else or not. It's time to spill the tea on Madison's most toxic traits, from bad manners on the bike trail to the sorry state of our lakes. The City Cast Madison team dishes on our hot takes, plus we hear from you! What's Madison's most toxic trait? Tune in to find out. Have toxic thoughts of your own? Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and you might hear it on the show: 608-318-3367 You can also email madison@citycast.fm and find us on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Nurses Set to Strike, Exciting Local Groundbreakings, and Election Season Already?!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 29:13


    Buckle up because it's time for another Friday news roundup! The City Cast Madison podcast team is here to break down the biggest local stories of the week. Producer Jade Iseri-Ramos has news on some exciting new construction around town, including a new 911 operations center and the Imagination Center. Executive producer Hayley Sperling has the latest on the impending nurses' strike. And host Bianca Martin brings us into election season with Judge Chris Taylor's announcement that she's running for the Wisconsin Supreme Court.   Mentioned on the show: Madison Public Library's 150th Anniversary Parties  The growing burden of workplace violence against healthcare workers: trends in prevalence, risk factors, consequences, and prevention – a narrative review [NIH] What To Do on Memorial Day Weekend in Madison [Madison Minutes] Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Madison's Hottest New Restaurants

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 29:14


    Madison's restaurant scene is growing, and fast. Blink and you just might miss your next favorite place to eat. To catch us up on what's new and notable in town, we chat with Lindsay Christians, food and culture editor at the Cap Times. Her latest article highlights 24 newly opened restaurants in Madison, as well as some recent closures. Hungry? Let's dig in.  Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    How the Mallards Threw Madison a Curveball

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2025 37:26


    The Madison Mallards are celebrating their 25th season this year! This is a pretty big deal, considering Madison historically has never had a taste for baseball. Today, we're taking a look back at the team's origin story, how they helped shape the world of collegiate summer baseball, and how they changed the city's attitude toward the sport. To get the details, we spoke with Tom Alesia, longtime local writer and author of the new book “Baseball Like It Oughta Be: How a Shoe Salesman's Madison Mallards and His Renegade Staff Ignited the Summer-Collegiate Baseball Revolution!” Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Take a Trip to Another Dimension at Dr. Evermor's Sculpture Park

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 30:27


    It's Tuesday, and we're taking Must See Madison on the road! Producer Jade Iseri-Ramos is on a mission to experience some of the best day trips Wisconsin has to offer. Her first stop? Dr. Evermor's Sculpture Park in Sauk County. Host Bianca Martin caught up with Jade after her trip to get the details. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Why These Bugs are Swarming Madison Right Now

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 29:28


    Warm weather is here and so are the bugs! If you've been to one of our beautiful lakes recently, or just stepped outside, you may have witnessed swarms of lakeflies filling the sky. Where the heck did they come from, and what other insects can we expect to see this season? To answer these questions and more, we caught up with the Wisconsin Bug Guy himself, PJ Liesch, who runs the UW-Madison Insect Diagnostic Lab. Grab your bug spray and dive in! Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Madison Libraries Celebrate 150 Years, School Shooting Arrest, and Metro Transit Highs and Lows

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2025 41:01


    Happy Friday, Madison! The City Cast Madison team is here to catch you up on yet another busy week of news. And this week, we have a special guest. Madison Public Library marketing manager Liz Boyd joins us to talk about the hottest party of the year: Madison Public Library's 150th birthday party! Plus, newsletter editor Rob Thomas has an update on the Abundant Life Christian School shooting. And executive producer Hayley Sperling and host Bianca Martin have good news and bad news from Metro Transit.  Mentioned on the show: String of attacks on bus drivers puts spotlight on Metro Transit [Wisconsin State Journal] Metro Transit Enacting New Safety Measures to Protect Drivers, Passengers [City of Madison] Want this Terrace chair? [Facebook] Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Welcome Back, Hạ Long Bay

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 22:30


    The moment Madison has been waiting for is finally here. Hạ Long Bay is back open on Willy Street! Officially, it's a soft opening, which means the restaurant is open for limited dine-in and takeout service and offering a preview of its new bar menu. The iconic east side restaurant is now under the ownership of Jacqueline and Stephanie Le, nieces of founder Jean Tran. Over the past year, the duo has been busy updating the restaurant while keeping the family's traditions and recipes alive. In honor of their soft opening, we're revisiting our conversation with the new owners about what folks can expect from this new evolution of Hạ Long Bay. This show originally aired April 4, 2024 Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    The Bounty Is the Coolest Spot in Madison You've Never Heard of

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 35:38


    Picture this. You're standing at a 1950s garden party and everyone around you is dressed perfectly on theme — polo shirts, khaki pants, and pearls galore. Then you turn your head and are transported to the ultimate Northwoods cabin, decked out with taxidermied animals, flannels, and vintage fireplaces. Confused? Welcome to The Bounty. The South Park Street shop and makerspace creates "environmental narratives” that tell stories. But what's the story behind The Bounty itself? We sat down with owner J Henley to find out. 

    Get Your Cream Puff on at Stoughton's 2025 Syttende Mai Festival

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 27:08


    Dust off that bunad and get ready to eat some lefse because Stoughton's annual Syttende Mai celebration is right around the corner! Festivals may be a dime a dozen in the summer, but this is the only one that will transport you to Norway without having to get on a plane. To get the scoop on what to expect from this year's fest, we caught up with Sarah Ebert, president of Stoughton Chamber of Commerce. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    A Madison Therapist's Tips For Boosting Your Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 32:11


    May is Mental Health Awareness Month and  more than ever, people are looking to take control of their mental well-being and find support through therapy and wellness. But sometimes it's hard to know where to start. Thankfully you don't have to go it alone. Today, we talk with Myra Renne, founder and executive director of Anesis Therapy, about mental health resources in Madison and steps you can take right now to give yourself a little more love.  Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Local Media Shakeups, Mother Fool's Hit by Car (Again), and It's Falcon Season!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2025 37:33


    Happy Friday, Madison! We've made it through another busy week and the City Cast Madison team is here to dig into the top stories. Host Bianca Martin talks about the impending layoffs at Wisconsin Public Radio amid federal budget cuts. Executive producer Hayley Sperling asks why people keep driving into buildings on Willy Street and beyond (!!!). And Madison Minutes newsletter editor Rob Thomas has a mixed bag of restaurant news. Plus, it's falcon time! Mentioned on the show: WORT-FM could see programming, staff changes without funding from Corporation for Public Broadcasting [News 3] Miko Poke on Monroe Street to become Baja-inspired HWY 1 [Cap Times] Touch of Ukraine closing, new restaurant set to open in its place [Wisconsin State Journal] Meet Madison's Favorite Falcons [Madison Minutes] Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Why This Madison Donut Shop Has a Cult Following

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 28:18


    Level 5 Donuts has taken the isthmus by storm. After getting started selling their vegan sweets at festivals and coffee shops around town, Level 5 is now leveling up its business with a brick-and-mortar store. We sat down with Caitlin Rockey, the co-owner and head baker at Level 5 to learn more about how their Atwood store came to be and what it's like to lead a donut cult. Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  Want more Madison news delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Why Minocqua Should Be Your Next Getaway {Sponsored}

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 18:36


    Ready for a getaway? In this special bonus episode, sponsored by the Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau, City Cast Madison's Hayley Sperling talks with Krystal Westfahl, CEO and president of the Greater Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau. From water sports and cold plunges to stargazing and silent sports, Krystal shares all the reasons Minocqua is the perfect place to recharge. Plus, a look at the area's rich Native American heritage and the warm, welcoming community that makes it feel like home. Want to plan a trip to Minocqua? Check out ⁠THIS LINK⁠ to learn more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Next Phase of Guaranteed Income in Madison

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 32:38


    The Foundation for Black Women's Wellness announced last month they're continuing the work of the Madison Forward Fund — Wisconsin's first guaranteed income program.The program gave $500 to a small group of Madison parents each month for a year for them to spend however they pleased. We chat with Dr. Michelle Robinson, chief programs and partnerships officer for the foundation, about the impact of guaranteed income and the current state of Forward Fund 2.0. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Who Can Afford To Represent Madison?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 34:26


    In April, voters in District 15 voted to reelect Alder Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford. The only catch? She had suspended her campaign. Ultimately Martinez-Rutherford decided to accept the win, and was recently sworn into her second term. After accepting the will of the people, she mentioned the struggle to find affordable housing in the district she represents as a reason she halted her campaign. We sat down with Alder Martinez-Rutherford to talk about her decision and how we can all better support each other.    Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Is Wisconsin Entering Its Nuclear Era?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 28:45


    It's rare for lawmakers in our statehouse to agree on just about anything these days. But recently, a group of Democrats and Republicans have come together to support a historically hot-button issue — nuclear energy. Momentum is building for Wisconsin to start investing more heavily in nuclear power. So what's next? We spoke with Cap Times state government reporter Andrew Bahl to find out. Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

    Student Visas Restored, BRT Charges Forward, and Henry Vilas Unveils an Adorable Secret

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2025 39:01


    It's Friday, which means the City Cast Madison team is back together to round up the news of the week. Host Bianca Martin talks about the latest twists and turns in the case of 27 UW-Madison students who had their international student visas suddenly suspended – and then just as suddenly reinstated. Executive Producer Hayley Sperling explains why the city sounds more optimistic about the future of a north-south BRT line. And Newsletter Editor Rob Thomas has a warm ‘n' fuzzy story on how a kids' show puppet was inspired by a real-life Madison hero! Plus, we love baby otters!  Mentioned on the show Got BRT questions? Ask the city at one of its upcoming events. Why the FBI Arrested a Milwaukee Judge [

    Your Guide to May 2025 in Madison

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 42:18


    Spring has sprung and May is here! This month is jam-packed with things to do, see, and eat around town. The City Cast Madison squad is here to give you our takes on what they're excited about this month. From night markets and plant sales to Brat Fest and theater mysteries, there's something for everyone to enjoy in May. Plus, we have a special sponsored interview with Greyley Wellness Owner and CCS Service Director, Nicole Moll. Don't miss it.  Mentioned on the show

    Get Your Home in Tip Top Shape This Spring

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025 35:16


    Mercury Stardust can fix just about anything. As a home maintenance professional with more than a decade of experience, she's got tips on how to keep your home in tiptop shape, whether you rent or own. And as an activist with millions of followers across her social media channels, she's taught countless people how to live life with more compassion. Host Bianca Martin sat down with Mercury to talk about her journey from growing up on a farm in northern Wisconsin to putting on weekly burlesque shows in Madison to becoming the sensation she is today. This show originally aired July 10, 2024. Mentioned on the show Safe and Sound by Mercury Stardust Handy Ma'am Hotline podcastWanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We're also on Instagram!  You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

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