City Cast Philly

City Cast Twin Cities host Sean McPherson hosts this showdown where 12 City Cast reps, including City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri, compete head-to-head and debate which city is the best for a weekend trip this summer. From hot tub boats (exactly what they sound like) to epic outdoor summer festivals, our hosts are bringing the best of what their city has to offer this season. Can Trenae beat out her competitors from Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Portland, Salt Lake, Seattle, and the Twin Cities? ⁠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: ⁠Visit Philadelphia

Results are in! The City Cast Philly team stayed up late to get the results of last night's Democratic primary election for the Third Congressional District. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz discuss how the most progressive candidate, State Rep. Chris Rabb, won the Democratic nomination and what this surprising victory says about Philly Democrats (and democratic socialists). Plus, they break down the next big campaign between Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro and his challenger, Republican State Treasurer Stacy Garrity. 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: Visit Philadelphia

Ona Judge was one of nine enslaved Black people forced to work and live at President George Washington's Philadelphia home before her escape to freedom in 1796. The current president has tried to suppress her story and the story of other enslaved people who were held in Philadelphia. Now, there's an extraordinary and permanent response: This Thursday is the first-ever annual Ona Judge Day in the city. Host Trenae Nuri talks through this history with  Ronnie Polaneczky, senior editor at Philadelphia Magazine, and Carl Singley, retired lawyer and co-founder of the Ona Judge Coalition.  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: Visit Philadelphia

Philly's food and beverage landscape is constantly expanding. New businesses are popping up all the time, and many originate from other places across the country – particularly New York City. In the past few years, restaurants have expanded out of Texas, New York, California, and many other states. Host Trenae Nuri is talking with senior producer Abby Fritz and newsletter editor Siani Colón about what these restaurants bring to Philly, and how some just don't get Philadelphians.  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: Visit Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries 

Would Philadelphia be safer if there were more automated traffic cameras? In 2025, Washington, DC, brought in nearly $270 million from more than 500 automated traffic enforcement cameras — including a single camera that issued $9 million in tickets. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host Bridget Todd about how these cameras work, the congressional scrutiny they've been getting, and whether they make DC safer. Plus, is DC becoming the new rave capital?  Mentioned on the show: "The deadliest road in America" (Vox) 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! Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk through whether City Council has the power to regulate driverless vehicles. Also, there are new $10 bus rides going to over 50 northeastern cities and a new hotel cocktail program is inspired by the country's 250th anniversary. Plus, City Cast Philly Neighbors can play along in the members-only segment as Trenae's knowledge on the upcoming primary election is tested.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Concerns over driverless cars in Philadelphia Philadelphia officials question city's lack of power over driverless cars City Council committee hearing on Waymo OurBus to offer $10 bus fares out of Philadelphia for nearly three weeks Philly unveils parking crackdown near World Cup Fan Festival  Lemon Hill Temporary Residential Parking Permits John Fetterman casts deciding vote against limiting Trump's war in Iran Spirit of 76 Cocktails  The boozy business of the American Revolution went down in Philly bars So Much Madeira What To Know Before You Head to the Polls on May 19 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: Free Library of Philadelphia

It's that time of year when Philadelphians are making their summer plans. And that means it's time to book those weeks and weekends down the shore. But with several dozen towns along the New Jersey coastline, where are we supposed to go? Which boardwalk is the best? Where do we take the kids? Where do we party? That's why we're listening back to our conversation with journalist and Jersey Shore expert Jen Miller about some of her hacks for navigating the beaches, boardwalks, and partying along the coastline.  This episode originally aired April 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: membership.citycast.fm Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Free Library of Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries 

The 2026 Pennsylvania primary is next week, on May 19. Do you know what's on your ballot? Host Trenae Nuri runs through what you're voting on with City Cast Philly politics contributor Lauren Vidas. They explain everything from the hot congressional race to the obscure race with dozens of candidates that you probably didn't know anything about. Plus, there are two intriguing ballot questions.  For more information on the 3rd Congressional District contest, listen back to this deep dive. If you want a written voter guide to take with you to the voting booth, 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: Free Library of Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries

Chocolate bars like Polka Dot Mushroom Magic Blend and tablets like Ms. Molli Cule's have a few things in common: You can get these over the counter in local smoke shops, and both are psychedelics – unregulated drugs sold over-the-counter in our neighborhoods. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with two investigative reporters for the Philadelphia Inquirer, Max Marin and Ryan Briggs, about why psychedelics can stay on shop shelves and what's actually in them. Read Max and Ryan's full report for the Inquirer 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: Free Library of Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries

After over 60 years, the PGA Championship ー basically the Super Bowl of golf ー is back in the Philly area. The professional men's championship starts today and runs through May 17 at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square. Philly's history with the sport runs deep, and the region continues to expand with opportunities to play. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Maya Satya Reddy, a former professional golfer and founder of both the Queer Asian Social Club and Open Fairways, about exploring golf in the region and how it can become more inclusive.  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: Free Library of Philadelphia Philly Foodworks - use the code CITYCAST to receive 20% off your first three orders, plus enjoy a free pound of strawberries

It's a big year for Philly! This summer, the city is anticipating a record-breaking number of tourists coming to town for World Cup games and semiquincentennial events, so Philadelphia is allowing its bars to stay open until 4 a.m. during most of June and July. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri about the city's nightlife, and the pros and cons of this extended hours experiment. Plus, how to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary without feeling like you're serving a Trump narrative. 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. Catch up on the controversial 'no' vote that State Representative Chris Rabb, a 3rd Congressional District hopeful, got heat for this week. Also, Mayor Cherelle Parker signed six of seven bills that that will restrict immigration enforcement in Philly starting in July. Host Trenae Nuri and senior producer Abby Fritz talk through all of this, plus how Knicks fans are getting petty over the Eastern Conference Semi-finals. At the end of the episode, City Cast Philly Neighbors get exclusive low-cost and free last-minute Mother's Day recommendations.  Come say hi to the team this weekend at the Art Star Craft Bazaar on Saturday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Mayor Parker signs sweeping restrictions on immigration enforcement, cementing Philly's sanctuary policies into law Pa. House committee passes suite of six bills to combat child sex trafficking Chris Rabb takes controversial vote against sex trafficking legislation two weeks before congressional election House Judiciary committee criticizes Philly law enforcement over sanctuary policies, demands immigration records and correspondence Mayor Parker signs sweeping restrictions on immigration enforcement, cementing Philly's sanctuary policies into law Nick Nurse rejoins Sixers after brother's funeral, says Steve Nurse would want him to coach Defiant NYers to take Philly by storm despite Sixers' attempt to keep Knicks fans out NY eateries, bars ban ‘Philly' cheesesteaks from menu as Knicks-Sixers fight gets greasy 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 Art Star

Philly is giving its neighborhood parks some TLC this weekend with the start of Love Your Park Week. Running from May 9 through 17, this annual celebration brings volunteers together to clean up some of the 10,000 acres of parkland across the city. However, some people aren't giving our parks the flowers they deserve. So we're revisiting a conversation with the team, host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, senior producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Siani Colón, where we read one-star reviews of the city's green spaces. This episode originally aired on Aug. 19, 2025. Parks we mentioned in the episode:  Washington Square Park  Matthias Baldwin Park Pastorius Park John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge FDR Park  The Woodlands Fairmount Park  Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse  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 Art Star

A heated Philadelphia School Board meeting ended in a 6-3 vote, which approved a $3 billion facilities plan that would close 17 schools and renovate 169 more. Not before city council members disrupted the meeting with chants and shouting, to protest the plan. Although this didn't stop its initial passing, city leaders are pushing back. Councilmember Isaiah Thomas was present at the board meeting and has been outspoken about some of the schools on the closure list. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with the councilmember, who's also the chair of the Education Committee, about his opposition and what would need to change in the facilities master plan to get his support.  Listen back to Monday's episode with School Board President Reginald Streater to hear why he voted 'yes' on this plan. 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 Art Star

It seems like a crack in the sidewalk or broken curb should be an easy fix. However, in Philly these issues get complicated because it isn't the city that's responsible, it's property owners. That's why our sidewalks look the way they do. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Malcom Burnley, a staff writer at the Philadelphia Citizen, who's looked to cities across the country for answers on how to fix our sidewalks ASAP. Read Malcolm's 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: Taskrabbit Art Star

Despite an extraordinary and emotional confrontation with City Council last week, the Philadelphia School Board voted 6-3 to approve a $3 billion facilities plan that would close 17 schools and renovate 169 more. Parents, teachers, and students still have many questions. So joining host Trenae Nuri to talk about the controversial facilities plan, and the justification behind it, is School Board President Reginald Streater.  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 Art Star

It's the Friday news roundup. We're talking about this week's congressional debate – and which candidate was a no-show. Plus, the strange origin of some tables at Philly restaurants, and could Passyunk Avenue ever be totally car-free? Host Trenae and executive producer Matt Katz also dish for a bonus segment only for our City Cast Philly Neighbors about where to get tacos and free margaritas.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Sen. Street and Rep. Rabb spar over experience and policy in WHYY 3rd Congressional District debate after Dr. Stanford drops out of event 3rd Congressional District Democratic primary debate Congressional hopeful Ala Stanford's Black Doctors Consortium was fueled by $13 million in public funding Philadelphia's Please Touch Museum has a new $4.2M marble floor. The old marble is making a comeback in Center City restaurants Please Touch Museum to build new permanent exhibit Passyunk should be car free—prove me wrong 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: Heiler Painting Free Library of Philadelphia Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

May kicks off festival season in the city. From music to food, we couldn't be more excited to check out the festivals Philly is offering this month. We also recommend exploring the exhibit about monuments and Philly's boxing legacy at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a restaurant serving falafel hoagies, and an ACME where you can win prizes for singing. For the Broad Street Run on May 3, our team and our City Cast Philly Neighbors will be stationed at a water station at Broad and Spruce Streets, near the Kimmel Center, cheering on runners and keeping them hydrated. The team will also have a table at the Art Star Craft Bazaar on Mother's Day weekend, May 9 and May 10, at Cherry Street Pier. And read up on local civics with Siani's election guides for the May 19 primary.  For even more tips on how to make the most of May 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 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Heiler Painting Free Library of Philadelphia

The school district is broke, and the mayor has a controversial plan to solve the problem. Meanwhile the Center City bike lane saga continues. And what's going to happen with the anti-ICE bills on the mayor's desk? Our political contributor Lauren Vidas is here with Trenae Nuri to give us a round-up of what's going on in City Hall.  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: Heiler Painting Free Library of Philadelphia

Nightlife seems to be getting earlier in Philly, and that's given rise to a new trend – aperitivo hour. Think small plates, small bites, and low-ABV cocktails. Host Trenae Nuri talks with  City Cast Philly food contributor Alisha Miranda about how Philadelphians are maximizing aperitivo hour this spring – and where you should be going to have the ultimate aperitivo experience.   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: Heiler Painting Free Library of Philadelphia

A congressman representing about half of our city is retiring, so Philly is getting the rare chance to fill an open seat with a new congressional representative. In recent weeks the campaigning in Pennsylvania's 3rd Congressional District has gotten heated, and the issue that keeps coming up again and again is Gaza, Israel, and the use of the word “genocide.” Today on City Cast Philly, Anna Orso, political reporter at the Philadelphia Inquirer, explains how a war halfway around the world came to dominate the May 19th Democratic primary in Philly.  If you enjoyed the interview with Amy Zhang, chief financial officer of TaskRabbit, ⁠learn more here.⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, April 27th episode: ⁠Heiler Painting⁠ ⁠Free Library of Philadelphia 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: Task Rabbit Free Library of Philadelphia  Heiler Painting

Are DIY urban projects the key to improving the infrastructure in cities like Philly? The grassroots group To Nashville, With Love has built and installed 60 benches at bus stops around Nashville, all without government approval. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Nashville podcast host Marie Cecile Anderson about what this guerrilla campaign is doing, why it's gotten pushback from the city, and where Nashville's Tactical Urbanism program fits into all this. Plus, the unique challenges of Nashville tourism.  Mentioned on the show: "Who Put Benches at Nashville Bus Stops — and Why Did the City Remove Them?" (City Cast Nashville) "Guerrilla Public Service Redux" (99% Invisible) 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! We're talking about the big fight over funding the School District of Philadelphia, given the $300 million structural deficit and expected teacher cuts. We'll break down Mayor Parker's push for the $1 tax on ride-share. Also: Are rats returning to Mayfair? And in today's show City Cast Philly Neighbors get an extra segment on everything you need to know about jumping on the playoff bandwagon for the Sixers and the Flyers. All of this and more with host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, and newsletter editor Siani Colon.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Parker renews plea for rideshare tax to skeptical council Philly School District officials say they won't need to cut 340 classroom jobs if Mayor Parker's Uber tax passes City Council clashes with superintendent over school closure plan, Uber tax Philly Council advances bills restricting ICE in the city as Mayor Parker signals she won't stand in the way ‘Protect us': Activists demand end to ICE arrests outside Philly courts 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:  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Rocky Balboa never actually lived in Philly (since he is the fictional character portrayed by actor Sylvester Stallone). But if you take a look around the city, he definitely has a home here. Rocky is on posters, shirts, and mugs. He's even quoted in a mayonnaise billboard along the highway. The pinnacle of the character's influence can be seen in the long lines at the Philadelphia Museum of Art leading up to a statue of his likeness. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Paul Farber, co-founder of Monument Lab and the curator of Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments – a new exhibit exploring why people are so fixated on Rocky and what this lore says about the impact of monuments on culture.  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

In just about six months, voters go to the polls in our politically divided state to vote for either incumbent Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro or the state treasurer, Republican Stacy Garrity. Neither of them have opponents in the party primary elections, which are next month, so this face-off is in November – but the campaigning and fundraising are well underway. Stephen Caruso, capital reporter for Spotlight PA, is here to talk about what issues separate Shapiro and Garrity and where they've been getting their money. Read more of Stephen's reporting on the governor's race 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: City Fitness Women Against Abuse Free Library of Philadelphia 

As Philadelphians feel the squeeze of rising costs, the Free Library of  Philadelphia is offering something that's always been free, and it's a lot more than books. In this sponsored bonus episode, Trenae talks with Kelly Richards, President and Director of the Free Library of Philadelphia, about how the library serves as the city's "people's university." From computers and job certification prep to professional headshots, language learning, and even borrowing musical instruments, Kelly walks through the resources available at no cost to every Philadelphian.  They also get into rare historical collections, a live beehive, expanded branch hours, and what's coming up this summer, including Philly 250, Summer Quest, and a Franklin Institute partnership on the science of soccer. Thank you for listening to this special bonus Sponsored Episode by The Free Library of Philadelphia. To learn about this episode sponsor visit freelibrary.org

Philadelphians are spending their own time and resources to maintain vacant and neglected land in their neighborhoods. These vacant lots can become community gathering spaces, such as gardens and playgrounds, thanks to the stewardship of these neighbors. Then the owners of the lots can take them back when they want to build. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Ryan Gittler-Muñiz, land security organizer for Iglesias Garden and organizer of the Philadelphia Land Stewards Union, about the new union and how it's pushing for people who live around vacant land to have a say in what happens to 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: 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

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