City Cast Philly

The numbers are starting to roll in, and whether or not Philly cashed in on the summer festivities is a mixed bag. But Host Trenae Nuri, senior producer Abby Fritz, and Eric Marsh, director of The Philadelphia Center for Gun Violence Reporting, agree that the energy was electric. They also discuss the ongoing litigation that could shape how drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians share the road. Also, if you have some ideas for Market East, city planners are all ears at a new storefront pop-up.  We're doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Our Tuesday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Philadelphia's FIFA Fan Festival tops 500,000 visitors, generates estimated $770M impact The Eagles and Phillies boost business more than the World Cup did, Philly bar owners say Win, lose or draw: A breakdown of Philly's experience as a World Cup host CHOP doctor honored at Rittenhouse memorial 2 years after she was fatally struck by a drunk driver  Philly court declines to let city resume work on Pine and Spruce Bike Lanes New Market East engagement center is one more step toward corridor redevelopment 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Philadelphia Union Fitler Club 

We've got an exclusive! Coming soon to Philadelphia is a new museum all about the people living in this great city. The Museum of the Philadelphian is opening in Fishtown this fall. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Brain Adoff, the curator behind this project (who also created Join Philly), to talk about why Philly needs this space. Plus, they talk about the sorts of artifacts that are going to be displayed and what's not included. 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Philadelphia Union Fitler Club

Sometimes it can feel like the Philly government is two (or more) steps behind the needs of its neighborhoods. Enter the residents of Chattanooga, Tennessee. What Chattanoogans don't have, they make up for in advocacy, whether by showing up to city council and organizing for change or just doing things themselves. City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with creator and city lover Hope Henchey about how she and her neighbors are sneakily and secretly fixing up their city. You've heard of the Nashville bench builders — now get ready for the Chattanooga pothole fillers, sidewalk layers, and (literal) trail blazers. Mentioned on the show: Atlas Obscura feature on the community-built benches in Chattanooga Efforts by Strong Chattanooga to make a path through the woods in a sidewalk-less neighborhood Review of Hoboken's streak of zero traffic fatalities  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 hot, hazy, and hard to breathe outside, so check Breathe Philly for the latest air quality conditions in your neighborhood. Also, the Trump administration altered the exhibits at the President's House in the dead of night, and there's a guy in South Philly who's organizing a parallel parking competition. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk about these stories, and for our City Cast Philly Neighbors, we've got ways you can save on your utility bills.   Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Code Red Air Quality Action Day issued in Philadelphia region due to wildfire smoke | What to know Breathe Philly Dashboard Philadelphia plans to renew controversial contract with Reworld trash incinerators The Battle Over Burning Our Trash in Chester Panels replaced at slavery exhibit at President's House in Philly Slavery exhibits at the President's House have been swapped for the Trump administration's version Trump administration replaces Philly President's House slavery exhibit ‘under the cover of darkness' after monthslong legal battle Are You Philly's Best Parallel Parker? Now's Your Chance to Prove It 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. Sign up here.  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Brooklyn Bowl Philly Philadelphia Union

A Mexican food renaissance is happening in Philly. Chefs at restaurants like Amá, Condesa, and Sor Ynez are telling stories of culture through food by reimagining traditional dishes and curating unique restaurant experiences. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with food contributor Alisha Miranda to discuss why Philly has such a vibrant Mexican food scene. Then, they go on a tour around town to Miranda's favorite spots for Mexican food.  Read Alisha's full story for Condé Nast Traveler 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: Brooklyn Bowl Philly Philadelphia Union

After nearly two weeks of negotiations, Pennsylvania lawmakers passed a state budget. A $50.8 billion deal – sending more money to school districts and rape crisis centers. And while this spending plan came in 12 days after the constitutional deadline, the process wasn't as chaotic and dramatic as last year's record 135-day impasse. Host Trenae Nuri and Stephen Caruso, capitol reporter for Spotlight PA, also chat about other major (and majorly controversial) policy issues that lawmakers are still sparring over in Pennsylvania. By the way: We're doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. We'd be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it's only 7 minutes long. You'll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast Philly swag. 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Brooklyn Bowl Philly Philadelphia Union 

The National Weather Service confirmed four microbursts hit the area on Saturday, causing downed trees, building damage, and flooding. So, what's a microburst? Plus, new numbers show us whether we had a surge in visitors over July 4th. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Jay Vereen, content creator, and executive producer Matt Katz to talk about those stories and why tonight's MLB All-Star Game is a big deal.  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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Brooklyn Bowl Philly Philadelphia Union

Need to cool down this summer? How about swimming with horses or running through a Wissahickon-themed sprayground? The Philly region has all kinds of ways to lower your temperature by playing in water. Senior Producer Abby Fritz sits down with former City Cast Philly roving producer Selena Seay-Reynolds to talk about the best spots to swim, kayak, tube, and get your feet wet. Plus, some water safety tips and findings from the quest for the Famous River Hotdog Man. Also, don't swim in Devil's Pool, here's why. But you can find other recommendations for your next Jersey Shore trip 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: Brooklyn Bowl Philly Philadelphia Union

There's lots to love about Philly, but being able to get in and out of it easily and cheaply can be an underrated metric of its livability. Accommodating, accessible, and affordable local airports are a specific resource that many cities need. To find out which cities are leading the charge and the kinds of amenities that elevate an airport to gold status, City Cast CEO David Plotz chats with Scott Keyes, founder and Chief Flight Expert of Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) about everything he's seen in his work and travels. How does your airport stack up? 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.

Philly takes center stage as Freedom Fuel, the cheap gas stations promoted by President Trump, opened in the city this week. Executive producer Matt Katz and senior producer Abby Fritz also cover how convicted child trafficker Jeffrey Epstein tried to recruit women from the University of Pennsylvania. And they give context on the arson attack on a mosque in the Northeast. City Cast Philly Neighbors get a members-only segment on the hidden gardens of Philly and an upcoming Neighbors event at the historic Wyck Historic House and Garden. Want to join the City Cast Philly team at Wyck? Become a Neighbor and keep an eye out in your inbox for an invitation to sign up for the event.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Northeast Philly mosque damaged in arson attack, authorities say Delco man arrested after alleged antisemitic threats on Gov. Josh Shapiro Inside Jeffrey Epstein's attempts to recruit women from Penn Documents show how Jeffrey Epstein tried to court renowned Penn Psychology professor Martin Seligman Who was Jeffrey Epstein? The disgraced financier with powerful associates Trump-promoted Freedom Fuel gas stations are opening around Philly. Here's what we know. ‘Freedom Fuel': White House promotes network selling cheaper gas in Pa.  Delaware County man arrested for allegedly threatening Governor Josh Shapiro The White House's X Feed Freedom Fuel Announcement How young players are getting an All-Star spotlight in Philly The Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park: Philly's Best-Kept Family Food Secret Wyck Historic House and Rose Garden 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. Sign up here.  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's no secret that SEPTA is in need of stable, long-term funding. But the divided state legislature hasn't been too keen on allocating money to the public transit agency, and fares alone just aren't cutting it. So the agency's new creative way to boost its funds is to add mixed-use development to some of its vacant land holdings near transit stops. Senior producer Abby Fritz talks with Molly McVety, staff writer at PhillyVoice, about the money SEPTA stands to make off this venture.  Read Molly's full story for PhillyVoice 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Lauren Rinaldi's ascension to the No. 3 position in the city Democratic committee was seen as something of an olive branch to progressives after State Rep. Chris Rabb, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, beat establishment-backed candidates to win the party nomination for Congress. Rinaldi is a professional artist, progressive Democratic ward leader in Fishtown, and member of DSA. Can the Democratic party in Philly unify under both Democratic Committee Chairman Bob Brady and Rinaldi, the party's new second vice-chair?  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:  If you enjoyed this interview with Giavana Pruiti, Director of Promotions and Activations for Center City District and Skylar Carey, Marketing Specialist with Arah Agency, learn more here.

Did the Fourth of July semiquincentennial celebrations fall flat, given the too-hot and then too-wet weather, a cancelled parade, and pricey middle-of-the-night fireworks? At least many Ben Franklins provided a much-needed silver lining. Executive producer Matt Katz, senior producer Abby Fritz, and food contributor Alisha Miranda recap the wild July Fourth weekend, give updates on the PECO union worker strike, and drop some pro tips for dining out in Philly this summer.  This episode was recorded on Monday, July 6, before PECO and IBEW Local 614 reached a tentative deal to end the strike. 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

While all fireworks shows have ended, Philly is still a noisy place. Just listen to the El train rolling by, neighbors yelling at each other from across the street, and Mr. Softee's jingle playing on a loop. But are there noises that make the city's soundscape special? Host Trenae Nuri talks with executive producer Matt Katz and newsletter editor Siani Colón about which noises piss them off, which they love, and which ones they just have to live with.  This episode originally aired on July 29, 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Four Seasons Philadelphia Brooklyn Bowl Philly Philadelphia Union Arbor

See if your Philly knowledge serves you well! In the first-ever Your City Could Be Better trivia episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz goes head to head with journalist and historian Alexandra Petri to see who knows more about U.S. history, geography, and celebrities ahead of the country's semiquincentennial. Sean McPherson, trivia wiz and City Cast Twin Cities host, leads four riveting rounds of questions covering everything from The Declaration of Independence to the hottest college rivalries, and all 13 City Cast cities make an appearance. See how you stack up! Mentioned on the show: Trivia Mafia website and locations Alexandra Petri's US History: Important American Documents (I Made Up) Milwaukee's block of Frank Lloyd Wright - Atlas Obscura 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.   

Every celebration needs a beverage to pair with it. This weekend, as the city marks the semiquincentennial with fireworks, block parties, and parades, honor Philly's part in the nation's history with a cocktail created here. Host Trenae Nuri runs through these beverages, the history behind them, and where to get them with food contributor Alisha Miranda.  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: Four Seasons Philadelphia Brooklyn Bowl Philly Philadelphia Union Arbor

As America rings in its 250th anniversary on July 4, Philadelphia celebrates with free museum admission, concerts, and special events for the semiquincentennial. We also recommend celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Ben Franklin Bridge, the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, and a spaghetti-eating contest. In this episode, you'll hear our best tips for enjoying Philly, plus lots of activity recommendations you won't find elsewhere. And if you're hungry for more food content, don't miss Siani's lists of the best barbecue spots, farmers markets, and restaurants for outdoor dining.     For even more tips on how to make the most of July in Philly, check out our newsletter. City Cast Philly is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Four Seasons Philadelphia, Brooklyn Bowl Philly, Philadelphia Union, and Arbor. 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

Are you sticking around for the semiquincentennial celebrations this weekend? Host Trenae Nuri, senior producer Abby Fritz, and Fae Ehsan, a board member of the urbanist group 5th Square Advocacy, make a list of pros and cons to help you decide. Plus, they discuss the couple in City Hall taking advantage of a retirement incentive — without retiring — and the neighborhoods that could get more housing near public transit.  Our Tuesday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Fourth of July travel: Best and worst times to travel in Philly region This Philly City Hall power couple stands to reap up to $750K by briefly retiring — then continuing to work for the city Philly has a new law to boost development around transit. Which neighborhoods will benefit? The Other Way Mayor Parker is Stepping Up for Transit 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: Four Seasons Philadelphia Brooklyn Bowl Philly Philadelphia Union Arbor

Is 2026 the safest year in Philly's history? If you look at homicide rates, it just might be. In 2025, we saw the fewest number of homicides since the 1960s. And through the first half of this year, the murder rate is down about 30 percent from even that historic low. What's going on here? What story are these numbers telling us about crime in the city. And statistics aside, do people feel safe? Host Trenae Nuri talks with Mensah Dean, staff writer from the gun violence reporting newsroom, The Trace. Read Mensah'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 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Story Strolls Brooklyn Bowl Philly Fitler Club Philadelphia Union

Just how good are the sidewalks in Philadelphia? The state of a city's sidewalks can be a good indicator of how healthy that city is — and pedestrian safety is just the beginning. In Denver, voters approved a new fee a few years ago to fund much-needed sidewalk repairs, and after a lot of back-and-forth, those repairs are finally underway. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Denver podcast host Bree Davies about what drove this initiative, how it's going, and who's paying for it. And speaking of sidewalks, do bikes, scooters, and people playing music belong on public sidewalks? 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.

For today's Friday News Roundup, we're talking about our city's most popular and least popular politicians, why it seems like President Trump is trying to kick 6abc off the air, and South Broad Street's recent glow-up. And stick around with host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz as they talk about summer deals, exclusively for our City Cast Philly Neighbors. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  6abc is warning viewers about the FCC taking away its TV license. Here's what's going on. Tell the FCC to Keep WPVI-TV on the Air! Josh Shapiro is most popular politician among Philadelphia residents — by a long shot Poll: Philadelphians feel safe and see a cleaner city under Mayor Parker — but schools remain a major concern Philadelphia's Avenue of the Arts introduces South Broad Street's green future Where To Watch Free Movies Outdoors This Summer 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:  ArtPhilly Fitler Club Philadelphia Union Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Catching the sunrise in the morning or the sunset in the evening can be a magical Philly experience. Because the city is relatively flat, you can catch beautiful views in so many places. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz take us on a tour of some of their favorite places to watch the sun rise and set in the city.   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 Club Philadelphia Union

Pennsylvania's state budget is due next week. It's the state's plan on how to spend money and support the services we rely on – public schools, SEPTA, and roads and bridges. But last year's budget was more than three months late, which messed up the finances of cities and nonprofits in the state. Will lawmakers in Harrisburg come to an agreement by next Tuesday's deadline? Host Trenae Nuri talks with Stephen Caruso, capitol reporter for Spotlight PA, about some of the ideas to bring in revenue into the commonwealth.  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 Club Philadelphia Union

World Cup soccer fans are taking over the Rocky steps and Lemon Hill Fan Fest, but are small businesses feeling a boost? Host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz and Conrad Benner, host of the Streets Dept. podcast, to talk about whether Philly neighborhoods and small businesses are financially benefiting from all the fandom. Plus, on this Tuesday News Roundup we discuss the latest court ruling on the slavery exhibit at the President's House and the mysterious new tag you may have seen in South Philly: Meatball

The Schuylkill River flows 137 miles through Schuylkill, Berks, Montgomery, Chester, and Philadelphia Counties before reaching the Delaware River. Philadelphians fish, boat, and live next to these rivers, but what's below the water's surface? Can you eat fish from the rivers? Should you swim in them? Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Erin Mooney, executive director at The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education.  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: Story Strolls Brooklyn Bowl Philly Fitler Club Philadelphia Union 

From scenic riverfronts to car-free paths to wooded gravel roads, the Philly area has some amazing bike trails, whatever your experience level might be. Host Trenae Nuri talks with West Philly cycling enthusiast Julian Bender, who created a bikepacking route from 30th Street Station to the New Jersey Pine Barrens that he calls the Jersey Devil Hunt. Plus, we learn about other accessible bike routes in and around the city.  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: Story Strolls Brooklyn Bowl Philly ArtPhilly

Yet another thing that makes Philadelphia so great is that there are races, rowing competitions, and a random assortment of other special events that happen almost every weekend in the city. But it's gotten more expensive for event organizers to put these events on, and the city's permit process is so hard to navigate. Plus, security costs are reaching $20,000 to $40,000 per event. So organizers scale back, scrap the event, or move it out of the city. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Philly's chief auditor, City Comptroller Christy Brady, about her latest report: A City of Neighborhoods and Celebrations: Report on Special Event Management in Philadelphia. She has ideas for better ways to put on special events and keep them 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 If you enjoyed this interview with Bob Jaeger, President of Partners for Sacred Spaces learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Story Strolls Brooklyn Bowl Philly

Why are this summer's tourists the primary beneficiary of new stuff from the city, like bathrooms and bike racks and new open spaces? What about us? Host Trenae Nuri, newsletter editor Siani Colon, and politics contributor Lauren Vidas have some complaints on this Tuesday News Roundup. Plus: We also look at whether the slavery exhibits at the President's House will be back in place by July 4th and we take a dive into the all-important Democratic ward elections in the city, where progressives are taking the fight to Chairman Bob Brady.  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:  Story Strolls Brooklyn Bowl Philly ArtPhilly

The FIFA World Cup is in full swing, and soccer fans from around the world are here in Philly. But some countries have a different tipping culture from here in the United States. And recently, tipping in Philly has reached a new level. It's everywhere. So will international visitors this summer properly tip our service workers? Because even Philadelphians don't know when, who, and how much to tip. Here's a conversation from last fall with host Trenae Nuri, food contributor Alisha Miranda, and executive producer Matt Katz about Philly's tipping culture and how to tip in various situations.  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: Story Strolls Brooklyn Bowl Philly

Do you know how many parks Philly has? Residents of Salt Lake County have wondered about their parks for years — that is, until City Cast Salt Lake host Ali Vallarta set out to catalog them all. Over the course of two years, she visited all 511 parks in the county, seeking to record their amenities (e.g., bathrooms, playgrounds), write helpful summaries, and track down the people in charge. The resulting map has already become a valuable tool for locals, who now not only know who to call when trash cans are overflowing: they can also find outdoor spaces that meet their needs. Mentioned on the show: Every Park SLC - The First-Ever Guide to Every Park in Salt Lake County (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.

For today's Friday News Roundup, we're looking at how City Hall found $50 million to avoid teacher layoffs, we're discussing the aftermath of what one city councilmember described as police “brutality” in the gayborhood after Pride celebrations, and we're analyzing the real political meaning behind District Attorney Larry Krasner's unusual letter delivery to Mayor Cherelle Parker. And for our City Cast Philly Neighbors, in our bonus segment host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz tell you about four brand new public outdoor spaces in the city that you're going to want to check out this summer.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Philly schools will not cut 340 classroom jobs amid budget cuts, Mayor Parker says Philly School District will not make 340 classroom job cuts after all, mayor announces Philly DA Larry Krasner requests more money for funding from mayor and more meetings Market Street in Old City gets a $16 million glow-up in time for America 250 New public space that floats on the Schuylkill River arrives at Bartram's Gardens SEPTA reopens long-shuttered South Broad Concourse in Center City Philadelphia City officials respond to backlash against heavy police involvement at Philly Pride 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: Four Seasons Philadelphia ArtPhilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Odunde, the largest African American street festival in the nation, returns to Philly on Sunday, June 14, with hundreds of thousands expected to gather on 16 blocks. What started out as a simple idea to celebrate African and Caribbean culture has become a 51-year-old demonstration of the power of community. There will be arts, crafts, and food vendors, as well as dance performances and R&B music headliner Bell Biv DeVoe. In this conversation from just before the 50th anniversary of the event, Odunde CEO Oshunbumi Fernandez-West tells host Trenae Nuri about the roots of this extraordinary 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: Four Seasons Philadelphia

Gov. Josh Shapiro wants data centers in Pennsylvania, and he's got a plan to incentivize developers to build. But does the governor's proposal have a shot at making it through our divided legislature? Kate Huangpu, government reporter for Spotlight PA, joins host Trenae Nuri to talk about the appetite for data centers among lawmakers, business groups, and the labor force, and how the Keystone State could benefit from this booming industry.  Read Kate's full report on G.R.I.D. for Spotlight PA 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:  Four Seasons Philadelphia

What's one thing we would ban from Center City? Why is the police headquarters costing the city so much money to buy? And will Bob Brady be dethroned as chairman of the Philadelphia Democrats? That – plus what we're looking for in World Cup merch – on the Tuesday News Roundup with journalist Claudia Vargas, City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri, and our senior producer Abby Fritz.  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: Four Seasons Philadelphia ArtPhilly The Penn Museum

The FIFA World Cup is here! This weekend marks the first of the six matches that Philly is hosting for the most-watched sporting event in the world. We're revisiting a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and Meg Kane, host city executive and CEO for Philadelphia Soccer 2026, to talk about the rise of soccer in Philly and why hosting the World Cup is a game-changer.  This episode originally aired Dec. 9, 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: Four Seasons Philadelphia

Philadelphia recycles some of its water, but not as much as Las Vegas, where the water there stays in the city. How else could a desert city possibly have enough water for its year-round tourists, a metro area population of over 2 million, and all those pools? The process just might be grosser than you think. With innovative recycling, strict lawn rules, and infrastructure to monitor it all, Vegas has become a global leader in water reuse. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Las Vegas podcast host Jesse Merrick to learn how the city makes do with what it has and how its practices could save other cities' water supplies. Plus, are any Las Vegans actually going to the casinos? Mentioned on the show: "Reality Check - There are Big Fines If You Don't Change Your Watering Clock" (Southern Nevada Water Authority) "Federal Regulators Cut Lake Mead Water. Can Vegas Handle It?" (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.

Matt Katz and Abby Fritz are looking back at the week that was on today's Friday News Roundup. Mayor Parker's plan to raise taxes on Amazon, Airbnb, and Uber appears to have failed. Why? The plan to protect bike lanes on Spruce and Pine Streets in Center City is back in court. The Pride march and festival this weekend won't be centered in the gayborhood, and people aren't happy about that. Plus in our members-only City Cast Philly Neighbors segment, we give you the scoop on jury duty in the city.   Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Philly City Council rejected Mayor Parker's proposed taxes on Uber and Airbnb while advancing a $7.1 billion city budget Mayor Parker's proposals to tax tech companies falter as city budget deadline looms With Philly budget vote looming, Airbnb launches ad campaign against proposed tax hike on short-term rentals City asks court to let it strengthen bike lanes on Pine and Spruce Streets Meredith Elementary in South Philadelphia amends Pride celebration after conservative backlash Philly Pride365 March and Festival Gayborhood bars brace for fallout from Philly Pride move 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: Taskrabbit Fitler Club Brooklyn Bowl Philly ArtPhilly

When the TV cameras go live, interviews go viral. And that's how we end up meeting some of the most interesting Philadelphians. Local Philadelphia TV news has captured some of our city's most viral moments, turning ordinary people into celebrities overnight. What makes these interviews so memorable? And is there anything unsettling about the attention? Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz chat about some of Philly's most memorable TV news interviews.  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: Taskrabbit Fitler Club Brooklyn Bowl Philly

Philadelphia voted to create the Citizens Police Oversight Commission in the wake of high-profile police killings in 2020. But the commission's power has been met with resistance from the police union, which has blocked outside investigations into city officers. Yet the executive director of the commission, Tonya McClary, tells host Trenae Nuri that the commission still plays an important role in reviewing accusations of police abuse. Senior producer Abby Fritz dug into what oversight really looks like in the city and what will be needed to strengthen it.  If you enjoyed this interview with Giavana Pruiti, Director of Promotions and Activations for Center City District, and Skylar Carey, Marketing Specialist with Arah Agency, learn more 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: Taskrabbit Fitler Club Brooklyn Bowl Philly

In the next month, the city is expected to pass a budget, host major sporting events, kick off semiquincentennial commemorations, and eventually clean up from all the parties. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by senior producer Abby Fritz and Circa Systems co-founder and CEO Nic Esposito to talk through the proposed taxes and fiscal decisions driving discourse around how Philly will make and spend money. This past weekend, The Roots Picnic and Porch Fest kicked off festival season, and we created your next outdoor festival checklist. Plus, the city has a unique chance to rethink how our trash is disposed of.  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: Taskrabbit Fitler Club Brooklyn Bowl Philly ArtPhilly

Philadelphia is the best city to be in this summer. From FIFA Fan Fest to the Block Party Bonanza and select bars staying open until 4 a.m, there's so much to do. We also recommend annual celebrations like the Pride Festival, the Odunde Festival, and the Chinese Lantern Festival. In this episode, you'll hear our best tips for enjoying Philly, plus lots of activity recommendations you won't find elsewhere. And if you're hungry for more food content, don't miss Siani's list of the city's newest restaurants. For even more tips on how to make the most of June in Philly, check out our newsletter. City Cast Philly made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Taskrabbit, Fitler Club, and Brooklyn Bowl Philly. 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

Where would Philadelphia be without its libraries? Chicago is opening its 82nd public library branch in June, and loaning out books is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what these institutions offer residents. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran about how Chicago's libraries have evolved to meet community needs, from opening a food pantry inside a branch to turning student IDs into automatic library cards — and how they could be even better. Plus, are the Chicago Bears still the Chicago Bears if they move to Indiana? 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.