City Cast Philly

Get ready for some seasonal fun because this month is packed with fall festivals, art exhibits — and, of course, haunted adventures. In this episode you'll hear our best tips for enjoying October, including lots of recommendations you won't find elsewhere. And if you love Spencer's pick for margaritas in this episode, don't miss our list of best new restaurants in Philly. For even more tips [LINK TO NEWSLETTER VERSION] on how to make the most of October 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 here.  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

We're talking about why this is an exciting time to be a Philadelphia sports fan (other than the Trump administration's questionable use of Eagles' highlights in an anti-immigration video. Plus, we take a look at some new changes to tailgating rules down at Lincoln Financial Field and how fans are reacting. Host Trenae Nuri is with creative producer Siani Colón and content creator Jay Vereen. Plus, they talk about a new space opening up in East Passyunk where people can get free dating advice.  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:  PMA Craft Show 

When you gotta go, you gotta go! Host Trenae Nuri is joined by senior creative producer Abby Fritz and Santiago Ortiz, founder of No Shorts, to talk about some of the best, worst, and confusing bathrooms in the city. They also talk about the Academy of Natural Sciences closure and the Philly experiences still on their bucket lists.  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

In recent weeks there's been online chatter about whether Philadelphians should patronize Blank Street, a New York coffee chain that opened this month in Rittenhouse Square. There are actually a lot of out-of-town businesses coming to Philly, especially when it comes to food. Why are they attracted to Philly? Host Trenae Nuri is talking with creative producers Abby Fritz and Siani Colón about some of their favorite out-of-town spots and if they conflict with Philly's culinary culture. This episode originally aired on May 18, 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: AACR 

What's a seemingly small project in Philly that's made a big difference? In the Oregon suburb of Tualatin, a drinking water pipe has just been fitted with a seamless electrical turbine, so that an existing utility can now have a dual purpose. David is joined by Nic Westendorf, Tualatin's deputy public works director, to talk about the power of thinking local, using existing tools, and looking ahead to a sustainable future to inform what we do today. 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.

We're talking about teen meet-ups stirring public safety concerns — where are the spaces for youth to hang out across the city? Plus, the Parker administration highlights hitting a milestone in the mayor's H.O.M.E. initiative. And for our Neighbors-only segment, we walk through the new Museum of The Philadelphian in Fishtown and chat with one of the colorful Philadelphians highlighted inside — The Chicken Man.  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: AACR GPHCC Dine Latino Chase  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

The Republican party faces an uphill battle as they try to win support in a hugely Democratic city. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by creative producer Siani Colón and reporter Claudia Vargas. They also talk about the four years of vacancy at the former police headquarters known as the Roundhouse, and a unique Air BNB listing for a houseboat on the Delaware River. 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: AACR GPHCC Dine Latino Chase

City Council held its first session last week introducing nearly 50 bills and resolutions ranging from keeping life affordable in the city to making updates to the city's zoning code on drag shows. Host Trenae Nuri talks with our political contributor Lauren Vidas and creative producer Abby Fritz about some of the other happenings in City Hall, including a hearing on the closure of the Academy of Natural Sciences. Plus, we dig into the best bar food 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: AACR GPHCC Dine Latino Chase

Pennsylvania has reported four measles deaths in the past month, marking the first deaths in the Commonwealth related to once-eradicated disease in 35 years. But state health officials haven't provided many details to the public. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by contributors Nic Esposito and Cassidy Leyendecker to discuss how information about the measles outbreak is being handled on local, state, and national levels. They also break down the city's soon-to-be-expiring waste disposal contracts and share ways to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety on one of Philly's most dangerous roads, Roosevelt Boulevard.  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: AACR GPHCC Dine Latino Chase

The Rocky statue has been playing musical chairs between the top, bottom, and inside of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It's now taking its permanent spot at the top of the Art Museum steps. It's been 50 years since the first “Rocky” movie debuted, and the statue of the fictional boxer is still a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of pride for Philadelphians. As the statue gets comfortable in its new home, we're revisiting a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and Paul Farber, co-founder of Monument Lab, host of WHYY's The Statue, and the curator of Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments, who explains why people are so fixated on Rocky and why monuments continue to matter in our culture. This episode originally aired on April 23, 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: AACR GPHCC Dine Latino Chase

Did you know that Philly neighborhoods have seen drops in depression and crime, all because vacant lots were revitalized? Thanks to the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), this could continue to be a reality. David is joined by Trenae Nuri and special guest Matt Rader, PHS president, to talk about a unique Philly program called LandCare, whose team steps in to fix blighted properties when no one else can. They discuss what's stopping other cities from adopting these practices, and how, with the right knowledge and tools, that could potentially change. Mentioned on the show: Study showing 29% decrease in gun violence near transformed lots: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1718503115 Study showing 41% decrease in reported depression: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2688343 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.

City Hall was evacuated Thursday morning during City Council's first meeting of the season after a suspicious package was found. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz to discuss new details in the investigation at a home in Olney that's linked to the disappearance of at least seven women. They also discuss why a federal judge wants District Attorney Larry Krasner investigated. Plus, for our City Cast Philly Neighbors, a ton of free classes that you can take in the city this fall. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  5 missing women now linked to massive investigation at Philadelphia home Police find more photos of women who appear dead in pornographer R.C. Horsch's home, bringing the number of missing to 7  Federal judge refers Philadelphia DA Larry Krasner to U.S. Attorney's Office over possible crimes  Who is the federal judge overseeing the case roiling Philly DA Larry Krasner's office? And what will he do next? A former prosecutor said DA Larry Krasner's Office colluded with defense attorneys to try to overturn a murder conviction 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: Penn Live Arts CraftNation Campus Philly - CollegeFest Fitler Club

A couple of Philadelphia restaurants are bringing back the pay-what-you-can model of customers ordering what they want and then just paying what they think their meal and experience were worth. Host Trenae Nuri, contributor Alisha Miranda, and creative producer Abby Fritz dig into this model. They also discuss the one-year contract between the Philadelphia Parking Authority and the Department of Homeland Security, and the creative ways that job seekers are getting hired beyond LinkedIn.  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 Thursday, September 17th episode: Penn Live Arts CraftNation Campus Philly - CollegeFest Fitler Club

Data centers are everywhere, but it's a booming industry that's created contentious conversations in communities – Philly included. This week activists held a rally outside of City Hall urging councilmembers to pass a moratorium on data centers. Mayor Cherelle Parker promised to create a task force to establish unspecified “guardrails” on data centers. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by contributors Jay Vereen, content creator, and Nic Esposito, tech founder and urban farmer, to talk about what a task force could do when AI technology continues to change at such a fast pace. They also discuss the public meeting to hear comments on whether the Keith Haring mural “We The Youth” should be added to the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places. Plus, they explain which non traditional sports are growing in popularity 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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Penn Live Arts CraftNation Campus Philly - CollegeFest Fitler Club

Our city's professional sports teams are on a roll — the Eagles won their home opener, the Phillies look like they're headed to the playoffs, the Union is on a 10-match undefeated streak, and the Sixers pre-season game with LeBron James is in just a few weeks. But not every sports-going experience is the same in this town. Host Trenae Nuri talks with creative producer Siani Colón and Fae Ehsan, nonprofit professional and board member at 5th Square Advocacy, about the best and worst Philly sports fans, stadiums, and performances. They also discuss this Grid Magazine article about civic spaces in the city and a Reddit post about best places to let out a scream.      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 If you enjoyed this interview with Elizabeth Class-Maldonado, associate vice president and Pennsylvania state director for Trust for Public Land, learn more here. And here's more about the sponsors of today's episode: Penn Live Arts CraftNation Campus Philly - CollegeFest Fitler Club

U.S. Senator John Fetterman is inching closer to President Trump and the Republican Party. Is he simply working across the aisle, or dramatically breaking promises with voters? Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk about Fetterman's appearance in a video at the Republican midterm convention. Then, City Cast Pittsburgh's Megan Harris and Mallory Folk do a deep dive into his appearances on Fox News, criticism from Democratic colleagues, and shocking allegations that former staffers have made about his work ethic.  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: Penn Live Arts CraftNation Campus Philly - CollegeFest Fitler Club Fringe Festival

It may not feel like it right now, but extreme heat is coming for Philly, and Las Vegas might have the answers you need. An already sizzling city, Vegas has continued to experience record-breaking heat in recent years, essentially forcing it to lead the charge in protecting residents from increasingly rising temperatures. City Cast Las Vegas host Jesse Merrick talks with David about the bold moves of Nevada's lawmakers, like mandating heat mitigation and giving away trees, and how some time-tested strategies still need to be tweaked as rising global temperatures present new problems every day. Mentioned on the show: Europe's 10,000 recorded deaths during June 2026 heatwave 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.

In an unexpected move, President Trump commuted former local labor leader John Dougherty's six-year sentence for bribery and embezzlement. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz give the details on what Johnny Doc is up to given his newfound freedom – and the $1.6 million in restitution he no longer has to pay. On the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Philadelphians grapple with the loss and honor the memory of victims. Plus, our City Cast Philly Neighbors are getting a curated selection of all the must-have Eagles merch to don this season.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Johnny Doc is a free man after President Donald Trump cut his six-year prison term short John Dougherty and Bobby Henon found guilty at federal bribery trial, upending city politics and organized labor John Dougherty found guilty in union embezzlement trial, his second felony conviction in as many years Former Philly union boss John Dougherty released from federal prison   This Philadelphia man lost a friend in the 9/11 attacks. He now offers hugs to the world in his friend's memory 25 years later: Philly events to commemorate 9/11 Memorial to honor Philadelphia's 9/11 victims  Where To Find Eagles Merch 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. Sign up here.  Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Fringe Festival

We're reacting to the renderings of the new Sixers, Flyers, and WNBA arena in South Philly. City Council will need to review and approve the designs and permits, but will they demand a community benefits agreement? Host Trenae Nuri is joined by senior creative producer Abby Fritz and content creator Jay Vereen. They also discuss the announcement that Shania Bennett, former director of the Office of Youth Engagement, is running for mayor. Plus, if we had to leave Philly, this is what we'd eat before we leave.  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:  Fringe Festival

Philly is home to 38 public gardens and historic landscapes, more than anywhere else in the country. Today we're revisiting a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and author Nicole Juday about the historic Woodlands public garden and cemetery, the 200-year evolution of Philly's gardens, and how to best enjoy one of the most elaborate gardens in the US (hot tip: on a bench with lunch).  You can find Nicole's book here.  This episode originally aired on Sept. 19, 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:  Fringe Festival

We're talking about friends and friendship in Philly. If you're a lifelong Philadelphian, you have friends from your childhood, but where in Philly can you go if you just moved here? What do you do if you've drifted away from old friends? Host Trenae Nuri chats with creative producers Abby Fritz and Siani Colón, and audience development manager Spencer Morris, about how they keep their friends close, and places where you can meet new people.  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 sponsor of this Tuesday, September 8th episode: Fringe Festival

Do you know what kind of surveillance technology is being used in Philly? In Nashville, the city government has blocked numerous measures to install and use it. From license plate readers to drone cameras, the technology is routinely rejected by the Metro Council and mayor, and locals are somewhat split on if that's for the better. City Cast Nashville host Rachel Iacovone joins “Your City Could Be Better” to walk through all the measures that the Nashville government has reviewed and rejected, why people have reason to fear the tech, and what the city may lose by saying no to surveillance. 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.

An apartment complex in Germantown illegally operated for two years without a license, leading to pushback from tenants when they found out. Host Trenae Nuri and senior creative producer Abby Fritz talk about how this happened, as well as the record-setting number of flood warnings the Philly area has been getting this year. Plus, in our final segment just for City Cast Philly Neighbors, we dive into the Labor Day events you should have on your radar if you'll be staying in the city for the long weekend. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Confrontation ensues as Germantown HS apartments found to be operating without license Philly tenant unions have quadrupled since the pandemic — and their political power is growing Philadelphia proactive rental-inspection plan takes shape ahead of Council vote West Oak Lane renters could receive cash refunds under new class-action settlement Common Landlord-Tenant Issues The Philly region has been a national hot spot this year — for flood warnings Renters' Rights 101 This Broad Street baked potato costs $88 Philadelphia region's Labor Day travel predictions  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 sponsor of this Friday, September 4th episode: CraftNation

We're talking about why the Academy of Natural Science Museum is planning to close its doors, and why PA lawmakers want to ban automated license plate readers. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by creative producer Abby Fritz and local community organizer Cassidy Leyendecker to talk about these stories and their favorite Philly food experiences: Which ones are really worth the price? Abby wrote about the 24-hour cheese vending machine in 2024. 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 sponsor of this Thursday, September 3rd episode: CraftNation

In this episode, we're talking about why the district attorney's office is being scrutinized, and how the new Supreme Court ruling removing federal spending limits for political parties could affect elections in Philly. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by creative producer Siani Colón and political contributor Lauren Vidas to talk about these stories, and what festive rideshares in Philly are like.  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 sponsor of this Wednesday, September 2nd episode: CraftNation

From food festivals and competitions to art exhibits and live poetry performances, Philly's September calendar is packed! In this episode, the team curates deep-cut recommendations, free events, and pro-tips for how to spend your free time this month. Plus, we have events and programs that can help all Philadelphians learn more about their city. Need more ideas for cheap dates? Check out this episode packed with options for $25 or less!  For even more tips on how to make the most of September in Philly, check out our newsletter. City Cast Philly is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like CraftNation.  We're powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show and other perks. Find out more here.  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

Soak up the last days of warm weather with a drink in hand and a dinner to remember. We're revisiting a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and City Cast Philly food contributor Alisha Miranda to celebrate National Eat Outside Day today with recommendations for the most memorable outdoor dining experiences. They dive into the reservations you should make now at restaurants, bars, and distilleries with patios, rooftop decks, and sidewalk seating.  This episode originally aired on Sept. 2, 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

The Philly airport definitely has a lot going for it, but what it doesn't have is its own electrical grid, like Pittsburgh's does. For the past few years, Pittsburgh International Airport has been generating on-site electricity, more than it needs even at peak operation, to fortify itself against the kind of power outages that hit airports (unsettlingly often) across the world. City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris brings David into the little-known world of airport energy independence, showing how a one-time investment can bring the kind of peace of mind that both travelers and operators hope for every day. 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.

We're talking about how a judge is finally taking on dysfunction in the Sheriff's Office, students and teachers across the commonwealth are waiting for test scores, and why an Old City movie theater is closed. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz talk about these stories and the thousands of athletes and spectators watching the Philadelphia Cycling Classic this weekend. Plus, for our final segment just for City Cast Philly Neighbors, we're chatting with the newest member of our team who's gonna share some deep Philly cuts.  Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  After six years of chaos in Philly Sheriff's Office, Rochelle Bilal must answer to judges The Phils Honored Rochelle Bilal?  Philadelphia's state test scores are delayed this year  Paying parents to become influencers and other priorities for Philly schools superintendent in 2026-27 Ritz Five movie theater shut down indefinitely due to fire code violation 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:  Fitler Club Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We're talking about the latest on the investigation of the 2025 jet rescue crash in Northeast Philadelphia and a proposed law allowing bicyclists to yield at stop signs and red lights instead of actually stopping. Host Trenae Nuri, senior creative producer Abby Fritz, and independent journalist Claudia Vargas talk about these stories and the creative ways that Philly grocery stores are engaging with customers and neighbors. For Claudia's reporting on the Northeast Philadelphia medical jet crash investigation, visit her Substack. 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

Whether you're aiming to keep the romance alive or thin out your roster before cuffing season, dating can be expensive! But workout classes, bike rides, and opera tickets don't have to break the bank. That's why we're revisiting a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and senior creative producer Abby Fritz sharing the best date ideas for $25 or less.   This episode originally aired on July,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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

School is officially back in session. Philly students may be returning to the classroom, but the same can't be said for all teachers. Host Trenae Nuri, creative producer Siani Colόn, and Eric Marsh Sr., director of the Philadelphia Center for Gun Violence Reporting, dig into the state of Philly schools and what's driving teachers out of the district. They also play a round of Real Estate Roulette to guess how much landlords are charging for rent. And they make their pitch on where the Philly Portal should move. Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Instagram: @citycastphilly If you enjoyed today's interview with Elizabeth Class-Maldonado, associate vice president and Pennsylvania state director for Trust for Public. Land learn more here. 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

Grandma says tap water is good for you, but a filter does make sink water taste better. When you turn on the shower or order tap at a restaurant, Philly's drinking water shapes your everyday life and health. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Christine Kirchhoff – associate professor of civil and environmental engineering, and law, policy, and engineering – at Penn State, about whether you should drink water straight out of the tap.  Read Christine's story in The Conversation 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 

How often are you out in nature in Philly? It's not always easy to know which natural resources are clean and safe to use in an urban setting, and city rivers get a particularly bad rap. It's true that cities have had eras of sewage mishandling and high boat traffic — but many have also cleaned up their act, through the tireless work of local advocates and politicians. Portland, OR, is one of those cities, and City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza joins this episode of Your City Could Be Better to debunk the assumptions and fears about her city's river, the Willamette. Learn all about how a journalist-turned-governor led the charge to clean up Portland's waterfront, and how a quirky organizer — and lots of enthusiastic swimmers — have carried the torch. Mentioned on the show: Portland's riverfront park, named after former Governor Tom McCall Swiss residents using river to swim home from work RFK Jr. swimming (in jeans) in Rock Creek in Washington, D.C. 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.

The Parker administration has seen more than half of its highest-level appointees leave their posts, according to a Philadelphia Inquirer analysis. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz discuss why there is a revolving door of people leaving City Hall, Gov, Josh Shapiro's pivot on data center development in Pennsylvania, and how much Philly parents are spending on back-to-school supplies. Also, what happens to the Indigo bike seats after this weekend's Philly Naked Bike Ride? Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:  Mayor Parker has seen higher turnover among her top appointees than her recent predecessors Philly kids have plenty of sway over back-to-school spending  In a major shift, Gov. Josh Shapiro restricts data center development in Pennsylvania  Gov. Josh Shapiro signs executive order placing guardrails on Pa. data centers Pennsylvania's new data-center rules aren't all bad for power companies Data center developers are pushing Pa. government officials to sign secrecy agreements. At least some are saying yes.  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:  Fitler Club

When's the last time a Philadelphian showed you a random act of kindness? We're asking because the Philly Money Hunt Instagram account depicts someone hiding what appears to be  wads of cash in random places around the city and films those who find the money and those who are too late. Host Trenae Nuri, creative producer Abby Fritz and host of the Streets Dept. Podcast, Conrad Benner, talk about other ways strangers have been kind in the city. Plus, they chat about how the police department is planning to use artificial intelligence for 911 calls and whether our city murals should be preserved as historic landmarks.  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:  Fitler Club

Earlier this month Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday said he wants Congress to put into effect a ban on hemp-derived products. Those products — like CBD gummies and THC drinks — are at your local corner stores and smoke shops. And that got us thinking about another intoxicating product that's available over the counter: magic mushrooms. Earlier this year, The Inquirer did an investigation looking into what's actually in those products. On today's show we're listening back to a conversation we had with investigative reporters for The Philadelphia Inquirer, Max Marin and Ryan Briggs, about why these products are on the shelves.  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. Sign up here. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club

The view down South Broad Street from Washington Avenue to City Hall is iconic. But an op-ed in The Philadelphia Inquirer criticizing the new planters smack in the middle of the street raises a host of questions about our beautiful thoroughfare. Host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, and Fae Ehsan, a nonprofit professional and board member at 5th Square Advocacy, discuss the view down Broad. They also talk about how QR codes are everywhere these days after being discovered by city agencies – and they guess the prices of Philly home listings.  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: Fitler Club

Today's episode asks an age-old question here in the city that continues to get debated on social media. Given the discourse about what really makes you from Philly, host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, creative producer Siani Colón, and audience development manager Spencer Morris talk through the criteria of who can say they're ”from Philly” – you don't just qualify by wearing an Eagles jersey.  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:  Fitler Club

What will Philly do when it runs out of space for trash? Madison, WI, has a plan, and it's one that other cities could follow. What could've just been another county landfill, slated to open in 2027, will instead be a “sustainability campus”, where local businesses will unite to more intentionally sort incoming waste, increase recycling intake, and generally aim to slow the flow of trash. And Dane County has historically handled waste disposal in a savvy way, making big bucks off of trash collection that they then use to fund future projects like this forthcoming campus. City Cast Madison host Bianca Martin breaks this all down for David, and together they uncover the quirks — and opportunities — that come with talking trash.  Mentioned on the show: Conversion of Dane County landfills into pollinator fields 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, and we're talking about questions over the city's hiring of ESM Productions to put on the July 4th concert this summer. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz discuss this story and the mysterious and grisly case unfolding at an Olney home. We also read more of your comments about e-bikes, e-scooters and e-motorcycles on our streets and sidewalks. Plus, only for our City Cast Philly Neighbors, free things to do in the city this weekend – including a way to win prizes.    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

Why does Philly still have an abandoned car problem? Host Trenae Nuri poses this question to executive producer Matt Katz and Nic Esposito, who once served as the city's zero waste and litter director. They also talk about how e-bikes and e-scooters have taken over city streets and proposed legislation to tackle these vehicles in Philadelphia and in Pennsylvania. Plus, there are more Lebron James sightings, well sort of, around town.  Do you have some feelings about e-bikes and e-scooters? Text us or leave a voicemail: 215-259-8170 Our newsletter has Philly news & events in your inbox every weekday morning. 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