City Cast Philly

Inside Pennsylvania's largest women's state prison, those serving life or long-term sentences battle chronic illnesses like diabetes, arthritis, and cancer, from as young as 35 years old. By 50, their health has declined even further. "Dying On the Inside" is a new five-part podcast series that digs deep into what medical care, justice, and health disparities really look like for women behind bars. Host Trenae Nuri talks with executive producers on the project, Cherri Gregg and Yvonne Latty, about this often forgotten population here in Pennsylvania: women serving life or long-term sentences. Cherri and Yvonne are hosting a live launch event at WHYY on April 22, from 6–8 pm, featuring a listening experience and panel discussion with justice-impacted voices, advocates, and policymakers.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: City Fitness Women Against Abuse Free Library of Philadelphia

Could public financing get Philly more involved in local elections? For the last decade, the City of Seattle has issued $100 in vouchers to every voter to donate to the candidate of their choice in municipal elections. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Seattle podcast host Jane C. Hu about how these Democracy Vouchers work, how many people are participating, and what the impact on local elections has been. Plus, is the “Seattle Freeze” a real thing? 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.

It's the Friday news roundup! Today, we bring you the latest in the battle between landlords and renters' rights advocates over a package of bills that aim to protect tenants. We'll break down the budget Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel has requested. And: could a beloved Philly sports tradition be under threat this summer? Plus, members get an extra segment with our hot takes on upcoming changes to Philly Pride. All of this and more with host Trenae Nuri and senior producer Abby Fritz. An earlier version of this episode said the Philadelphia Police Department asked for an increase of $1 billion in its budget for the 2027 fiscal year. That was inaccurate. Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel is requesting a total of about $1 billion for the department in the 2027 fiscal year. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Philly police tout homicide decline, request nearly $1B for next year's budget  Philly police to produce annual report for city officials on drone use Philadelphia police expand drone use, but with little oversight from above Some cities are raising transportation fares for FIFA, will SEPTA? Tailgating will be allowed at Lincoln Financial Field during 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, source says Pride festivities relocate to Benjamin Franklin Parkway this June Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Women Against Abuse Heiler Painting

Mayor Cherelle Parker recently inked a deal with the genealogy research company Ancestry.com, allowing the website to add Philadelphia's public records to its database. Now, the trove of documents stowed at City Hall and the City Archives will be scanned, digitized, and easily searchable online, but if you want to browse from your home, it'll come with a price. The deal has sparked questions over how data about our ancestors, from marriage licenses to death certificates, can find new life online. Host Trenae Nuri is talking with Chelsea Cox, a content creator for Technical.ly Philly, about how this move could change who has access to your family history. Read more of Chelsea's full story here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Women Against Abuse Heiler Painting

We've been following the progress of a bill that aims to limit how Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers can operate in Philadelphia. If passed, the bill would prohibit ICE from wearing masks and using unmarked vehicles, forbid them from using public spaces to stage operations, and limit how Philadelphia police can aid ICE. The bill has passed out of a committee meeting and will face a final vote in City Council as soon as tomorrow. And Mayor Cherelle Parker has put an end to months of speculation over her support for the bill, saying she will allow it to pass if it comes across her desk – despite lingering concerns from her administration that some language in the bill could pose legal issues. Council members Kendra Brooks and Rue Landau, who introduced the legislation, told us that they aim to make Philadelphia as safe and welcoming as possible. As council members get ready to vote on the bill, we're revisiting host Trenae Nuri's conversation with Landau and Brooks.  This episode originally aired on Feb. 4, 2026.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Women Against Abuse Heiler Painting

Philly is known as the mural capital of the world. But murals are just one form of public art – and our city is teeming with many more. Through his blog Streets Dept, lifelong Philadelphian Conrad Benner has made it his mission to help denizens notice the art all around them – from wheatpaste posters to stickers slapped on the back of PPA signs to graffiti art and more. Now, Conrad is re-launching the Streets Dept podcast, talking with the artists, thinkers, lawmakers, and ordinary people who shape Philly's culture. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Conrad about how he's built a following documenting the everyday magic in Philly's streets. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Women Against Abuse Heiler Painting

Can you walk to the grocery store or commute to work on foot? For many Philadelphians, this isn't possible. But the city keeps receiving high ranks from publications for being pedestrian-friendly, and is often referred to as a walkable city. So host Trenae Nuri, senior producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón discuss what makes a city walkable –  and better yet, what could make our city more accessible by foot.  For a list of walking groups in Philly, check out today's newsletter.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Women Against Abuse Heiler Painting

Philadelphians, what do you do when your night life starts to dwindle? Nightlife is a huge economic driver for cities, but city offices are often closed when those businesses need help. That's why Portland is considering hiring a Night Mayor. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Portland podcast host Claudia Meza about what this new position would do, and if it is the answer to the pandemic's enduring negative impact on walkability, small businesses, and nightlife in cities everywhere. Plus, should your city be weirder? Mentioned on the show: "Can a Night Mayor Revive Downtown Portland?" (City Cast Portland) 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.

It's the Friday news roundup! First, we have the latest on a deadly parking garage collapse in Grays Ferry. We'll talk about the most recent developments in the fight over recognizing the history of enslaved people at the President's House. And, how to prepare for new guest parking rules in Philadelphia. Plus, neighbors get a special bonus segment this week! Listen to our episode with Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler here. This episode was updated on April 10 after initial publication with more information regarding the Grays Ferry garage collapse and the two missing workers, who are now presumed dead. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Search for missing workers on hold after deadly collapse at Grays Ferry parking garage The Trump administration wants to sanitize George Washington's role in slavery at President's House Trump Targets Philly Slavery Memorial for Removal The PPA's temporary parking pass system has gone digital. Here's what to know. 'For what? For greed?': Philly bar owners debate wisdom of staying open until 4 a.m. this summer Philly's 'Night Mayor' On Partying — And Sleeping — Better Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler 

Baltimore Avenue has beloved coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and bookstores, like Little Bean, a new addition to the corridor. But things are changing; some shops lie vacant, and adored, long-time businesses are closing. So we're listening back to a conversation with host Trenae Nuri and freelance writer (and events newsletter writer) Jen Kinney, who points out that storefronts are staying empty longer and vape shops are replacing neighborhood favorites. They discuss the different feeling along the corridor and where else this is happening in Philly.  This episode originally aired on Nov. 17, 2025.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has passed a slew of bills that would reshape some aspects of life in the state. Lawmakers voted to raise Pennsylvania's minimum wage – currently stagnating at $7.25 an hour – to $15 an hour over the next few years. They advanced a bill that would require controversial data centers to submit to additional oversight from the state. They approved legislation that would codify marriage equality at a time when federal protections feel shaky. If passed, these laws could have big impacts for Pennsylvanians. But do they stand a chance in the Republican-controlled State Senate? Today, we're joining forces with City Cast Pittsburgh to bring you the latest from the Capitol. Host Trenae Nuri and Pittsburgh host Megan Harris talk with Ian Karbal, government reporter for the Pennsylvania Capital-Star, about the changes that could be in store for our state. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Fitler

Philadelphia boasts dozens of clubs, civic organizations, and communities that can help denizens get connected and stay engaged. But finding those groups, especially as a busy adult, can be a real challenge. That's why Brian Adoff started Join Philly, an organization that helps people join groups that matter to them – everything from volunteering at the Free Library to connecting with fellow succulent lovers at Cactus Club. Host Trenae Nuri sat down with Brian to talk about the second annual activities fair, a free event where Philadelphians can meet representatives from more than 40 clubs and sign up for something new. Think of it like club day at school – but for grown-ups! City Cast Philly is proud to be the official host and media partner of the Philadelphia Activities Fair. Join us this Sunday, April 12, from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Philadelphia Ethical Society. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler

As the weather warms up, it's time to ditch winter clothes for shorts and skirts. But how can you build the perfect summer wardrobe without breaking the bank, and find places to donate things you no longer need? Host Trenae Nuri, senior producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón have you covered. We'll let you in on all our favorite thrift stores in Philly, from warehouse-sized outlets to hidden gems; pay-by-the-pound bargains to discerning vintage finds. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler

While Philly will be getting a WNBA team in 2030 and Denver will not, Denver is the second city in the U.S. to build a stadium specifically for women's soccer. Will betting on women's sports drive Denver's economy or will Denverites be left paying the price for another stadium? City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Denver podcast host Bree Davies about why Denver has invested so much into having sports downtown, how Denver has capitalized on repurposing old industrial spaces, and how bad traffic gets when all your sports are downtown. Plus, is it better to have a Mayor with or without aims for a greater political office? Mentioned on the show: The $tadium Game: Inside the lucrative world of Colorado's pro sports stadiums [⁠The Denver Pos⁠t] 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.

It's the Friday news roundup! PECO says it wants to raise prices again – here's how it could affect your bill, and where the money would go. Northeast Philly just saw its second small plane crash in as many years – here's what happened. What's behind the semiquincentennial-branded benches and planters popping up around the city. And, pour one out for Philly's lacrosse team, the Wings, who announced that this season will be their last. See host Trenae Nuri speak at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 4 during the 2026 WHYY News Civic News Summit.   Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  ‘It's an atrocity': PECO workers file unfair labor practice claims, may strike PECO proposes rate hike of 12.5% to take effect next year Bill No. 26016100 New Art at PHL Philadelphia Wings announce they're ceasing operations  Shibe Vintage Sports About the Philadelphia Wings These Are the 2026 James Beard Finalists for Philadelphia One Book One Philadelphia Kickoff Event: A Conversation between Celeste Ng and Trenae Nuri Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

This fall, Philadelphia voters will send a new lawmaker to D.C. to represent Pennsylvania's 3rd Congressional District. For the first time in decades, there's a tight primary. Three major candidates are dominating this phase of the race: public health expert Dr. Ala Stanford, three-term State Senator Sharif Street, and progressive State Rep. Chris Rabb. Host Trenae Nuri talks with our political correspondent Lauren Vidas about how these candidates pulled ahead of the crowded field, and how voters can learn more about them. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Spring is now in full bloom, and so is the city. There are so many events, places to eat, and free things to do in Philly this April. Make sure to join us at the Philadelphia Activities Fair with Join Philly on Sunday, April 12, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Philadelphia Ethical Society. And if you liked Trenae and Siani's picks for coffee shops in this episode, here are some other coffee shops in the city. If you're looking to sip on something after work, but want alcohol-free spaces, we have an episode for that.  For even more tips on how to make the most of April in Philly, check out our newsletter. We're powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show and other perks. Find out more at membership.citycast.fm.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

While students and families wait for the School Board to vote on the Facilities Master Plan, a plan that could close 18 public schools and merge others, they have voiced concerns about what this means for students' safety during the transition.  While the timeline for the decision is uncertain, city officials and the school district are thinking about how to mitigate any tension that could come from these big changes. Senior producer Abby Fritz talks with Sammy Caiola, a gun violence solutions reporter for Chalkbeat Philadelphia, about what our city officials and the school district are doing, and could be doing better, to prepare for school closures. Read more of Sammy's reporting on safety during this transition here and here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

For residents of Port Richmond in the Northeast, the Franklin Slag Pile is a familiar sight. It's a huge black mound at the corner of Castor and Delaware Avenues, covered in a tarp, fenced off behind chain link. The pile may not look like much, but the Environmental Protection Agency has deemed it one of the most hazardous sites in Philadelphia. Now, more than 20 years after declaring the Franklin Slag Pile a Superfund site, the EPA says it's going to start cleanup in the coming months. Reporter Jordan Gass-Poore joins senior producer Abby Fritz to talk about why this effort has taken so long and how climate change is making toxic sites in Philadelphia even more dangerous. Read Jordan's full report about the Franklin Slag Pile here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

More affordable housing is needed in places like Philadelphia. Some cities, however, are doing better than others at meeting this need. Austin, Texas, for example, is building more affordable housing than any other American city right now — 50% more, by some measures, than the second most successful city. However, this fast-growing city is also seeing a shortage in housing that middle- and lower-income residents can afford. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Austin podcast host Nikki DaVaughn about this paradox, the city's affordable housing successes, and where Austin's still falling short. Plus, how far is too far to walk to a neighbor's house? 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.

It's the Friday News Roundup! This week, we're talking about why Mayor Cherelle Parker just increased her proposed tax on Uber and Lyft rides from twenty cents to a whole dollar – and who's going to get stuck with the bill. We talk about why the Sheriff's office is facing multiple lawsuits over one of its most basic jobs. And, we asked you what you think about ICE agents at PHL airport – and you had a LOT to say. Senior producer Abby Fritz and newsletter editor Siani Colón get into all of this – and more. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Mayor Parker wants to add a $1-per-ride tax to all rideshares in Philly to help fund the city's financially struggling school district https://www.inquirer.com/politics/philadelphia/city-council-critical-mayor-cherelle-parker-rideshare-tax-20260324.html https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/rocky-statue-temporarily-moving-inside-philadelphia-museum-of-art/4373762/ https://www.inquirer.com/news/sheriff-rochelle-bilal-deed-delays-lawsuits-20260322.html#loaded https://6abc.com/post/ice-agents-arrive-site-philadelphia-international-airport/18761216/ https://whyy.org/articles/philadelphia-airport-phl-ice-agents-government-shutdown/ https://www.phl.org/newsroom/Longestlinecheesesteaks Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Political Gabfest

Are you making a dinner reservation for your vegan bestie's birthday? Maybe your aunt has a seafood allergy but wants to explore Philly restaurants when she visits. Navigating the culinary scene can be daunting when you have special diets to consider. Senior producer Abby Fritz taps City Cast Philly food contributor Alisha Miranda to talk through the best restaurants and practices for dining out with specific dietary requirements.  Find a list of Kosher-certified restaurants here.  Listen to another episode with Alisha about affordable tasting menus and dining experiences here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Political Gabfest

The debate over two bills that seek to expand renters' rights has reached a breaking point. Two landlords sued City Council over its handling of the bills, halting the legislative process just as the bills were expected to pass. Senior producer Abby Fritz talks with Aaron Moselle, a housing and community development reporter at WHYY, about this unusual move by opponents of the bills and what it means for the ongoing showdown between landlords and renters' rights advocates. Read Aaron's full story on this lawsuit here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Political Gabfest 

Philly's skyline has everything from the oldest residential homes in the country on Elfreth's Alley to the skyscrapers in Center City to the twin houses of West Philly. As redevelopment of old buildings reshapes the city, we're revisiting a conversation about what makes Philly architecture unique – and how to notice it. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Chris Hytha, a Philly artist who has been studying and documenting Philly's built world, about the city's most iconic architecture and how to appreciate it. Also, he's rehabbing a rowhome from the 1800s and learning why you never waive inspections. Follow Chris' rowhome rehabilitation journey here.  This episode originally aired on Nov. 4, 2025.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Political Gabfest  

Germantown Town Hall, the three-story century-old building with a clock tower at 5928 Germantown Avenue, sits vacant. Over the years, there have been rumblings about a renovation, and recently, there's been some action on that front: developers have a proposal to breathe life back into the building. But a debate between developers and community members over how to use the space could leave plans up in the air. Host Trenae Nuri and Kyle Bagenstose discuss this project and what it means for both preservation and progress in Philly neighborhoods.   Read Kyle's full story here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Political Gabfest

The unionization efforts of sex workers in Nevada might have implications for gig workers in Philly. At Sheri's Ranch, a legal brothel 45 minutes outside Las Vegas, some of the workers are seeking both recognition as employees and union representation. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with former City Cast Las Vegas podcast host, current contributor, and longtime Nevada attorney Dayvid Figler about why sex workers are considered independent contractors, what sparked this legal battle, and what happens if they win. Plus, what's different about neighborhoods in Las Vegas? Mentioned on the show: Could a Pahrump Brothel Union Set a New National Standard for Labor Laws? (City Cast Las Vegas) 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.

It's the Friday News Roundup! In the wake of nationwide protests over the police killing of George Floyd, the Philadelphia Citizens Police Oversight Commission promised to investigate alleged wrongdoing by Philly police. But reporting from the Philadelphia Inquirer reveals that its power to do that has been limited. Plus, if it feels like lately water mains are bursting all over the city – that's because they are. We'll get into what's causing it. And, SEPTA's long-promised bus system overhaul is finally set to begin. Here's what to expect, and how to find out if your route is changing or being cut. Host Trenae Nuri and senior producer Abby Fritz get into all of this and more. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Citizens Police Oversight Commission sees progress with ‘live audits,' but independent authority remains elusive SEPTA Announces Proposed Implementation Schedule for New Bus Network Water main break shuts down intersection in North Philadelphia Philadelphia Water Department truck falls through part of road after water main break in Kensington It's 'unusually early' for a tornado watch in the Philly area, but the National Weather Service just issued one Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Lots of big music news out of Philly – Queen Latifah, Philly's own Eve, and Idina Menzel are set to headline concerts, before July 4th, during Wawa Welcome America week this summer. Jay-Z will headline Roots Picnic, while Jill Scott continues to sell out dates on her world tour. Meanwhile, “World Stage” — the West Philly venue formerly known as World Cafe Live — is still booking shows amid ongoing turmoil. Dan DeLuca, pop music critic at The Philadelphia Inquirer, joins us to break it all down. Read more of Dan's reporting here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

The Trump administration is pushing for the creation of more immigrant detention centers and is eying Pennsylvania for this expansion. The Department of Homeland Security purchased two warehouses for these efforts. But communities and politicians across the Keystone State are pushing back on these plans. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Spotlight PA reporters Gabriela Martínez and Kate Huangpu about why these plans have been so unclear and if local municipalities and the state have a say in how these facilities operate.  Read more of Gabriela's reporting on the quality of life across the commonwealth here.  Read more of Kate's reporting on Pennsylvania government here. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Security checkpoints at the Philadelphia International Airport continue to be plagued with long lines due to the partial government shutdown. It's definitely not the best way to start off your spring break if you're flying out of Philly. And to make matters worse, PHL airport was ranked dead last in a customer satisfaction survey for similar-sized airports last year. So, we're relistening to a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and newsletter editor Siani Colón, who have hacks to make your PHL airport experience a little bit better. This episode originally aired on December 22, 2025. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

The team is covering a grab bag of Philly news today. Host Trenae Nuri and senior producer Abby Fritz are diving deeper into the mayor's budget proposal and how federal funding is impacting it. After the politics, they talk about running into food delivery robots and how a new lesbian bar is finally opening in Philly.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philadelphians are concerned about police accountability, especially with the increased presence of federal troops in many cities. DC Council in Washington recently passed emergency legislation requiring local police to release body-worn camera footage of incidents involving federal forces they patrol with, and to collect the names of federal officers who make arrests. It's a big shift in local policy, partially motivated by the fact that local cops have damaged their reputation by patrolling with feds. City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host and executive editor Mike Schaffer about the political stakes involved, the effectiveness of body cameras, and how Washingtonians are dealing with the heavy federal law enforcement presence. Plus, Mike and Jacoby weigh in on public transit etiquette in their cities when it comes to people playing music out loud. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email us now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It's the Friday News Roundup. Host Trenae Nuri and senior producer Abby Fritz talk about Mayor Cherelle Parker's nearly $7B budget, including her ambitious plan to address homelessness. Plus, SEPTA's planning to roll out a new bus network, and we take a look at District Attorney Larry Krasner's latest social video warning the city to stay safe when the weather gets warmer. Once you're done listening to this episode, go check out ⁠Your City Could Be Better⁠, City Cast's newest podcast, where CEO David Plotz chats with different hosts and producers from the 13 City Cast teams. So far, they've touched on anti-ICE protests, homelessness, and creative plans to revitalize downtowns. Listen every Friday on the Your City Could Be Better Feed or on this feed on Sundays.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  https://www.inquirer.com/politics/philadelphia/cherelle-parker-city-budget-proposal-uber-amazon-fees-20260311.html  https://6abc.com/post/septas-market-frankford-line-service-impacted-blown-transformer-center-city/18703720/ https://wwww.septa.org/news/proposed-implementation-schedule-new-bus-network/ Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Pretty Little Gathering

What started as a job working for a small, city-run youth arts program has led Jane Golden into a career advocating for creatives in the city. She has spent years adding murals to our homes, businesses, and even bridges to reflect the beauty within. As the founding director of Mural Arts Philadelphia, Golden transformed Philly into the “Mural Capital of the World." Now, Golden has announced that she will retire as head of the organization this year. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Golden about her 42 years of being Philly's art champion.   Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We're also on Instagram: @citycastphilly You can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Philly Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Pretty Little Gathering

It's our weekly politics episode. Host Trenae Nuri talks with our political contributor, Lauren Vidas, about the “ Super Bowl for city finance nerds”: Mayor Cherelle Parker's budget address. Plus, we cover city council's plan to hold a hearing next month to limit ICE operations and new proposals for tenant protections.  Read more about the happenings in city hall from Lauren here.  Find out more about how to sign up to testify at City Council hearings here. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Pretty Little Gathering

Chef Marc Vetri is a lifelong Philadelphian who made his mark in this city with Vetri Cucina, an intimate, game-changing restaurant in a historic townhouse on Spruce Street. He has continued to elevate Philly's food scene by opening Osteria, Amis, Pizzeria Vetri, Lo Spiedo, Alla Spina, and Fiorella. Plus, he's championing community through nutrition education with Vetri Community Partnership. At a live event last week at the Fitler Club, City Cast Philly Neighbors and Fitler Club members had the opportunity to hear host Trenae Nuri and Marc Vetri discuss his new book, "The Pasta Book: Recipes, Techniques, Inspiration." He divulged the secret to great homemade pasta with a cooking demonstration, then let us try his famous rigatoni ragu. Everyone went home with a signed copy of the cookbook to round out the night. Listen to the conversation between Trenae and Marc, and sign up to become a Neighbor, so you don't miss the next members-only event. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Pretty Little Gathering 

We love to say we live in Philly, but when someone asks what neighborhood we live in, what do we say? In this city, neighborhood names are always changing. And saying you live in “West Philly” doesn't always tell people exactly where you live. So today, we're revisiting a classic Philly debate: what do we actually call our neighborhoods? And we're putting City Cast Philly's Trenae Nuri, Siani Colon, Abby Fritz, and Matt Katz to the test to see if they know the sometimes weird names for Philly's neighborhoods. Plus, City Cast Philly contributor Johnny Goodtimes is quizzing us on how well we all know Philly.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Pretty Little Gathering 

Homelessness is one of the major issues that cities like Philadelphia are trying to solve. The state of Utah is planning to build a 16-acre homeless campus on the outskirts of Salt Lake City, where unhoused people with mental illnesses or addiction issues could be sheltered and in some cases involuntarily committed. This controversial idea is the brainchild of conservative think tanks, and it's one that's very much being embraced by the Trump administration and the Utah legislature. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Salt Lake podcast host Ali Vallarta about how this plan is meant to work, the concerns about forced institutionalization, and why the state is pushing for this even though it goes against the recommendations of local experts and service providers. Mentioned on the show: Interrogating Controversial Homeless Policy Proposals (City Cast Salt Lake) 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.

It's the Friday News Round-up, with host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz. We're discussing joy in Philly schools, and how new rules on bathroom breaks and half-days might affect that. Also, why was Marsha's on South Street – a queer-owned women's sports bar – inspected by the police on a busy night? And the World Cup is less than 100 days away: Time to pick which team playing in Philly you're going to support.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Philly kids get guaranteed recess, bathroom, and water breaks for the first time under a new school wellness policy These parents want a ‘chief of joy' for Philly schools. Here's why. Philadelphia schools eliminate half days, guarantee bathroom breaks ‘Abbott Elementary' Renewed for Sixth Season on ABC Owner says South Street bar unfairly targeted after anonymous, unfounded tips prompt police response City Cast Philly: A Women's Sports Renaissance in Philly Philadelphia gearing up for 2026 FIFA World Cup with "'How Do You Phan?" campaign City Cast Philly: The One Book Philly Is Reading, Starting Now Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise And 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 episode features City Cast Salt Lake's Ali Vallarta.

You don't have to be a career politician to help make zoning decisions, or add a speed bump on your block, or even move the intercity bus stop out of your neighborhood. And if you're frustrated about potholes and trash, there are ways to get involved in your community to fix that. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Violet Comber-Wilen, a reporter at Billy Penn, about how surprisingly easy it can be to learn and get involved in the inner workings of your Philly neighborhood.  Read more of Violet's reporting here. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

The school district is proposing major changes to its schools. And it could dramatically impact neighborhoods in the process. Philadelphians have not been quiet about their feelings. District officials say this is all in an effort to address lower enrollment, dilapidated buildings, and overcrowded classrooms. But are parents, students, and teachers' concerns being heard? Carly Sitrin, bureau chief at Chalkbeat Philadelphia, is here to explain all the shifting parts of the school district's master plan. Read more of Carly's reporting about the school district's Master Plan here.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We've got a grab bag of news about the way Philly sports affect our culture. Listen for predictions about A.J. Brown's future with the Eagles and his heartfelt message to other NFL players. We also discuss which boxer statue should be at the top of the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps, and why. Host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, and City Cast Philly sports contributor O.J. Spivey bring you all this, plus their list of the most Philly athletes, past and present.  Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly Support our show and get great perks as a City Cast Philly Neighbor: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise