City Cast Pittsburgh

Good news, bad news: three major cultural institutions — Pittsburgh Public Theater, City Theatre, and Pittsburgh CLO — are considering a merger to stay open and the historic Hollywood Theater in Dormont is about to reopen. U.S. Rep. Summer Lee was turned away from our region's largest ICE detention center even though it's literally part of her job, and we're talking about Pittsburgh wins and losses, from new life for a closed RiteAid to the satirical outlet The Onion taking aim at the Pirates. Notes and references from today's show: Does @joemanganiello have the hottest hot take of all time???? [Instagram] Three venerable Pittsburgh theater troupes explore joining forces to survive [WESA] An unmatched contribution to the culture, obviously. [TikTok] US Rep Summer Lee denied access to ICE detention center at Moshannon [TribLive] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] A dozen Democrats sue ICE for preventing detention center oversight visits [Los Angeles Times] Immigrant detentions surge at Pa. center accused of abuse as Trump crackdown intensifies [Spotlight PA] ICE arrests rise across Pittsburgh region [Axios Pittsburgh] ICE denies U.S. Rep Mary Gay Scanlon entry to region's largest detention center [WHYY] Hundreds from across PA. protest in Philipsburg against the Moshannon Valley Processing Center [WPSU] ICE Arrests in Pittsburgh Are Up. Here's What To Know [City Cast Pittsburgh] Lo que realmente ocurre durante una redada de ICE [City Cast Pittsburgh] U.S. Steel: Gas-valve failure likely cause of deadly explosion at Clairton Coke Works [WESA] Gas valve that failed ahead of U.S. Steel plant explosion was "significantly overpressurized" by workers, union VP says [KDKA] White House plans to shut down board probing deadly steel mill blast [E&E News] Pirates Under Fire For Directly Marketing Team To Children [The Onion] Why Pirates Fans Want Bob Nutting To Sell the Team [City Cast Pittsburgh] Millvale Hardee's — chain's only location in Pittsburgh region — closes [TribLive] Sheetz is officially building their first Pittsburgh city limits location [WTAE] What's your favorite burger in the city? Call or text our BURGER HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 29th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Family House Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

A brewery is taking over an old Missile Command Center in Oakdale, the South Side's got a new showstopping patio on top of a six-story distillery, and cigar bars seem like they're having a moment in Pittsburgh. Host Megan Harris is with City Cast team members Francesca Dabecco and Zack Durkin to talk about new restaurant openings, a new Sunday Supper series, and a festival celebrating a divisive fruit.  What's your favorite burger in the Burgh? Tell us your favorite meat and veggie options! Call or text us our BURGER HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 28th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Family House Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

PA has millions of acres of state and local parkland, but none of them have that coveted national park status. Why doesn't Pennsylvania have a national park? And where should we go instead? Host Megan Harris brought these questions to PA's director of outdoor recreation, Nathan Reigner, who's part of a new department all about championing our outdoor spaces. He shares a few of his favorites, including national forests, trails, state parks, and more — plus his pitch for why everyone should get outside as often as they can. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 27th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Family House Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Upright Citizens Brigade — the world-renowned comedy group — just opened a full-scale training center in Pittsburgh, in partnership with Bottlerocket Social Hall. It's UCB's first location outside New York and LA, which has us asking whether the Steel City is the next big comedy hotspot. We're taking the question to Chris Copen, partner and owner at Bottlerocket. He explains how Pittsburgh became a destination for big name comedians and why UCB decided our city was the perfect place to expand. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 26th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Family House Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

We've heard that driving in Pittsburgh is like driving on "hard mode," and people have been complaining about our streets for decades. In the 1930s, renowned journalist Erine Pyle wrote, "Pittsburgh is the cockeyedest city in the United States. Physically it is absolutely irrational. It must have been laid out by a mountain goat.” That still rings true today, and we're joined by friend of the pod and former Uber driver Jakob Lazzaro  to talk about why the streets are like this, share some very important rules for navigating our narrow, hilly streets, and – of course – debate the efficacy of the Pittsburgh Left.  Want to dive deeper into the history behind our city's quirky layout and driving rules? Check out WESA's reporting on our mismatched streets, frustrating on-ramps and Beltway System. Pittsburgh City Paper also has a great look at our Beltway. And don't miss the 99% Invisible episode about trying to create a GPS that speaks Pittsburghese. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 25th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Family House Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Carnegie Museum of Art is in the spotlight for breaking its own rules about hosting political events. We explain why the $5,000-per-plate dinner with U.S. Senator Dave McCormick is back in the news. Plus, we talk about the first candidate to officially challenge Governor Josh Shapiro's reelection bid: Republican Stacy Garrity, Pennsylvania's two-term state treasurer. And we share some (potential) good news for Pittsburgh soccer and hockey fans. Vote for us for Best Podcast every day through midnight tonight. We're in the People & Places category. Notes and references from today's show: $5,000-per-plate dinner with McCormick at Carnegie museum spurs backlash [TribLive] Carnegie Museums Updating Rental Policies After Controversial Event [Pittsburgh Magazine] $5,000-Per-Plate Dinner Tests Museum Ban on Political Fund-Raisers [New York Times] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] Republican Stacy Garrity seeks to challenge Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's reelection bid [AP] Stacy Garrity launches bid to unseat Shapiro [Axios Pittsburgh] Bizzarro criticizes Garrity for endorsing Trump as she demands apology for ‘insurrectionist Barbie' post [Penn Capital-Star] Why PA's (Probably) Punting On Cannabis & Late With Our Budget [City Cast Pittsburgh] PRT Needs Millions. Will PA Step Up? [City Cast Pittsburgh] Building on strong attendance, the Riverhounds plan to triple Highmark's capacity [City Paper] Pittsburgh Airport Dog Named Steeler is Contender in Cutest Canine Contest [Pittsburgh Magazine] Top 50 Stadiums for Game-Day Eats [Yelp] Report: Lemieux-Burkle bid for Penguins falls short of Fenway's expectations [Pittsburgh Business Times] What's your favorite burger in Pittsburgh? Call or text our BURGER HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsor of this August 22nd episode: Family House Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Feeling snacky? The next time you're grocery shopping, pick up one of the many potato chips made right here in Pennsylvania! The City Cast Pittsburgh crew is crunching it up with our friends at City Cast Philly to taste test as many PA-made potato chips as we can find, explore how the commonwealth became the "potato chip capital of the world," and crown the tastiest snack in the first ever (maybe?) Chippy Awards. **This episode originally aired on March 13, 2025. Vote for us for Best Podcast every day through Aug. 22. We're in the People & Places category. If you enjoyed today's interview with Ohio Wine's Executive Director, Christy Eckstein, and Director of Agriculture, Brian Baldridge, learn more here. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

Pittsburgh knows its way around a natural disaster — snow and ice, tornadoes, landslides, sinkholes, and even the outer rings of hurricanes. But our No. 1 most frequent disaster? Flooding. And you don't need to live near a body of water to be at risk. We're with Penn State's Ben Reppert, a lecturer on meteorology and emergency management, to talk about what's at stake and whether any of us are really prepared.  Vote for us for Best Podcast every day through Aug. 22. We're in the People & Places category. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Smoothie King and Heinz's ketchup smoothie collaboration is now available in Pittsburgh! We're trying it today, along with City Cast friends across the country. Plus, we're talking about all the upgrades at our museums, cultural institutions, and outdoor spaces. Pittsburgh's bringing in new zoo animals, swapping out Andrew Carnegie's name to honor modern-day philanthropists, and looking forward to more bike rentals and POGOH stations. Vote for us for Best Podcast every day through Aug. 22. We're in the People & Places category. 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. Notes and references from today's show: A Baker's Dozen of New Humboldt Penguins Arrives at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium [Pittsburgh Magazine] Pittsburgh Zoo Announces $10 Million ‘Transformative' Gift [Pittsburgh Magazine] Carnegie Science Center to relaunch as Daniel G. and Carole L. Kamin Science Center [WTAE] Architects give first look at Heinz History Center expansion design [WESA] The Frick Pittsburgh's new leader looks ahead to its ‘people-focused' future [Next Pittsburgh] Get in Touch With Nature on Frick Park's New Sensory Trail [City Cast Pittsburgh] How to Rent Accessible Bicycles and Tricycles from POGOH [City Cast Pittsburgh] Heinz drops ketchup smoothie in Pittsburgh [Axios Pittsburgh]  Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh City Council is sitting on 168 acres of land that they bought for $1 from the federal government, and their plan is to build a training facility for police, fire, and EMS. But their proposal has been put on pause. Host Megan Harris is with PublicSource's Ember Duke, who explains what's at stake with this facility, why Pittsburghers have reservations about it, and what to look out for when City Council returns from summer recess. Vote for us for Best Podcast every day through Aug. 22. We're in the People & Places category. 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. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. 

If it feels like the grossest summer in city history, you're not wrong. And that could affect air quality in the Mon Valley after the explosion at Clairton Coke Works. Incoming college freshman will be moving in next week – to Oakland and also Downtown – and a lot of them will find themselves in hotels instead of dorms. And we're talking about a bunch of wins for Pittsburgh this week, like an impromptu All-American Rejects concert at Sheetz, the return of the beloved Terrible Trolley, and megastar chef Thomas Keller noshing at Casbah – plus registration is open for the 2026 Pittsburgh Marathon and the Garbage Olympics this September. Vote for us for Best Podcast in City Paper's Best of the Burgh contest every day through Aug. 22. We're in the People & Places category. 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. Notes and references from today's show: Is this really the muggiest summer in Pittsburgh history? Here's the data. [PublicSource] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [Hey Pittsburgh] Point Park University will move students into Wyndham Grand Hotel because of influx of freshman [WPXI] Pitt freshmen living in off-campus hotel frustrated about cost, distance [P-G] College move-in 2025: Dates, traffic plans at high-traffic Pittsburgh schools [P-G] Millvale Community Library's Back to School Bash [Instagram] Pittsburgh Public School's Back to School Bash [Early Learning Resource Center] Pittsburgh Brewing Takes Over Branding of Landmark South Side Clock [Pittsburgh Magazine] Pittsburgh's Trash Problem [City Cast Pittsburgh] John Wells Has Produced Four Decades of TV Hits, Including ‘The Pitt.' He Has Some Advice for Hollywood [Hollywood Reporter] Does 'The Pitt Get Pittsburgh Right? [City Cast Pittsburgh] Do you have a flooding horror story or a hack to keep all your stuff safe? Call or text our FLOOD HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. 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. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 15th episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Overlook Maps Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh has so many beautiful parks — 176 to be exact! — and each one offers something a little different. If you're looking for the perfect spot to soak up the last few weeks of summer, we've got you covered. City Cast producer Sophia Lo is with Matthew Hileman, the director of operations and visitor engagement at the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, to talk about the best parks for gorgeous views, a romantic date night, birdwatching, and more. **This episode originally aired April 17, 2025. Vote for City Cast Pittsburgh for "Best Podcast" in City Paper's Best of PGH contest! You can vote for us every day through August 22nd. Find us under the "people and places" category.  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. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 11th episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Overlook Maps Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It's Restaurant Week! When places all over the city offer special menus with three or four delicious courses. But choosing where to go can be tough – this week and any week, really – because there are so many great options. So we're tapping in food writer Emily Catalano, who's tried more than 80 spots for Pittsburgh Magazine, to share her personal favorites – most surprising, most perfect, where the chefs go, most splurge-worthy, best bang for your buck, and more! 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. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 13th episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Overlook Maps Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

An explosion at Clairton Coke Works in the Mon Valley killed and injured workers yesterday. We're talking about what we know and what questions still remain. Plus, we're sharing ways to support your neighbors as ICE raids pick up in the region and celebrating something we think Pittsburgh does surprisingly well. Notes and references from today's show: Explosion at U.S. Steel's Clairton Coke Works leaves one dead, one missing, 10 hurt [PublicSource] ICE Arrests in Pittsburgh Are Up. Here's What To Know [City Cast Pittsburgh] Spanish-language version available here ICE Returns to Emiliano's restaurants, detains 16 workers after aborted June sting [PublicSource] On the ground with volunteers tracking ICE across the Pittsburgh region [PublicSource] Help Emiliano's Reopen and Support Staff [GoFundMe] Support Tepache Staff [GoFundMe] A Love Letter to Music Listings [The Atlantic] Vote for City Cast Pittsburgh for "Best Podcast" in City Paper's Best of PGH contest! You can vote for us every day through August 22nd. Find us under the "people and places" category.  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. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 11th episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Overlook Maps Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you're at a Pirates game, the highlights are taking in the gorgeous view, eating some hot dogs, and cheering on your favorite pierogi. But most of us aren't actually expecting the Pirates to win. After all, it's been 45 years since we fielded a team that could make it past a single playoff series, and some Pittsburghers contend that it's all because of Bob Nutting. You've seen the billboards calling for Bob to abandon ship and maybe even heard the chants at PNC Park yourself. Host Megan Harris is sitting down with a few of the rabble-rousers behind Our Team, Not His who say the time is now to convince Pirates owner Bob Nutting to sell the team. Not just for fans, but for taxpayers and anyone else who wants to see the whole city succeed. Thanks to our guests Gabe Mazefsky, Marc Datz, and Canyon Swartz. **This episode originally aired on April 3, 2025. Notes and references from today's show: Dear Bob Nutting, please bring Dad and me a World Series — or sell to someone who can [PublicSource] Sister Sledge - We Are Family (Official Music Video) [Rhino/YouTube] David Rubenstein looks back on his first year as owner of the Baltimore Orioles [NPR]  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. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 11th episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Overlook Maps Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Downtown is in flux — a high and growing office vacancy rate, but also big goals for building conversions, more residential housing (market and affordable!!), and stunning new art. Your household bills like water and electricity are likely to rise soon, but it's not too late to invest in solar. And a bunch of companies headquartered here in Pittsburgh have found themselves in the news, from THAT American Eagle Sydney Sweeney ad to PNC making Project Runway more “boring.” Plus, some celebrities were spotted at Kennywood! City Cast's Megan Harris and Sophia Lo are talking about some of the biggest stories of the week. Can someone please get their hands on this Heinz x Smoothie King ketchup smoothie collab and tell us how it tastes??! Leave us a voicemail on the KETCHUP SMOOTHIE HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Notes and references from today's show: Best of Pgh 2025 [City Paper] Pittsburgh's Downtown Office Vacancy Still High at More than 18% [Pittsburgh Magazine] Downtown offices continue to empty, but efforts to reimagine them take hold [WESA] First round of artists named for Pittsburgh civic space Arts Landing [WESA] Market Square businesses are stable three months into construction, but brace for winter [Next Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership details "encouraging shift" in downtown office market [Pittsburgh Business Times]  Barrage of weekend violence not a bellwether for Pittsburgh or region, officials say [TribLive] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] Why Pennsylvanians may see higher electric bills this summer — and next [SpotlightPA] PA Power Switch  ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act' casts shade over Pennsylvania's solar boom [Allegheny Front] Public Input Meetings [Pittsburgh Water]  Health insurance in Pennsylvania may see biggest hike in years [WESA] Giant Eagle Pharmacy joins Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs discount program [WESA] Heinz Just Launched a Ketchup Smoothie and It Might Actually Be Good [Food & Wine] Pete Davidson spotted hitting the rides at Kennywood [TribLive] PNC's marketing strategy takes center stage on 'Project Runway' [Pittsburgh Business Times] American Eagle stock soars after Trump hails Sydney Sweeney ad [Axios] Learn more about the sponsors of this August 8th episode: Fulton Commons Overlook Maps Barrel & Flow Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh's the birthplace of American whiskey, and hundreds of years later, our local distilleries have branched out to make all kinds of spirits. While you can enjoy local brands at bars all over the city, you can also go directly to the sources themselves for samples and tours. Host Megan Harris is joined by City Cast team member Zack Durkin, who is sharing more about Pittsburgh's distilleries tours, from the big multi-million dollar facilities to the small mom-and-pop operations. Still feeling thirsty? The PLCB's running a lottery for the chance to buy top-shelf whiskey.  Learn more about the sponsors of this August 7th episode: Fulton Commons Overlook Maps Barrel & Flow Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Can a city truly go broke? City Controller Rachael Heisler has been sounding the alarm on Pittsburgh's “unsustainable” budget for months. Too much overtime. No more savings. It's happened before: In the early 2000s, City Council voted to let the state take over our budget through a process called Act 47, and it took us 15 years to crawl our way out. Are we headed there again? Heisler's here to talk about what's gone wrong and what that means for everyone who lives here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 6th episode: Fulton Commons Overlook Maps Barrel & Flow Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will Pittsburgh sweep the Emmys this year? This year's hottest new medical drama, "The Pitt" is up for 13 Emmy nominations, and Season 2 started filming this summer. While the City Cast Pittsburgh team doesn't get a say in the awards process, we can judge the show on how well it captures our city. The City Cast Pittsburgh team is sharing our favorite local homages and Easter eggs, guessing which neighborhoods the characters might live in, and discussing the authenticity of nurse Dana's yinzer accent. Plus, a local healthcare worker tells us whether the show feels true to life. **This episode originally aired on April 24, 2025.  Notes and references from today's show: How Real Doctors Brought 'The Pitt' To Life [Science Friday] Learn more about the sponsors of this August 5th episode: Fulton Commons Overlook Maps Barrel & Flow Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pittsburgh backyards aren't exactly known for being spacious, but there's still room to plant a bountiful garden, raise some animals, or build a deck. But there's a lot of rules about how many animals you can have, whether you can build, and what exactly requires a permit if you want to upgrade your home. Host Megan Harris is with newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco and prize-winning gardener Kaydi Gratzer to run through what's allowed and what's off limits in your Pittsburgh backyard. Need a refresh? We've put our do's and don'ts up on our website, and head over to OneStopPGH to apply for a permit for your next DIY.  Learn more about the sponsors of this August 4th episode: Fulton Commons Overlook Maps Barrel & Flow Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The owners of Pittsburgh Mills are getting some fresh comeuppance with nearly $2 million in new fines, and boat owners clogging up the North Shore have yet to face any consequences. The first group of notable Pittsburghers are getting their due on the Pittsburgh Walk of Fame, and we're sharing what you need to know about your water bill probably going up. Plus, y'all have had a lot of thoughts about Cleveburgh. Should we start a Fetterman book club? Call or text the UNFETTERED hotline at 412-212-8893. Notes and references from today's show: City of Pittsburgh honors Gus and Yiayia's with ceremonial street renaming [KDKA] 1st inductees named to Pittsburgh Walk of Fame [TribLive] Row House Cinema reopening Hollywood Theater this fall with help from design team behind ScareHouse [Pittsburgh Business Times] Pittsburgh Mills owners ordered to pay nearly $2M in fines; more citations to be heard [TribLive] Ethics panel says Rep. Mike Kelly violated code of conduct during investigation into wife's stock trades [The Philadelphia Inquirer] Tensions remain as long-term docking of boats on North Shore continues [KDKA] Abandoned boats haunt Pittsburgh rivers — a new law could help remove them faster [WESA] Steeler's Training Camp Tickets [Steelers] Pittsburgh Steelers Reprise 1933 Throwback Uniforms With New Gold Helmets [Sports Logos] 2025 Hall of Honor inductees [Steelers] Next up for Hazelwood Green: An athletic field with stands for 3,000 fans, coming next summer [WESA] Former Pittsburgh Steeler mentioned in note found on Manhattan shooter, police say [WTAE] Steelers 2025 Season Schedule [Steelers] Pittsburgh Pirates legend Dave Parker inducted into National Baseball Hall of Fame [KDKA] Why a Pittsburgher Just Officially Became Baseball's Best Hitter [City Cast Pittsburgh] Morning Roundup: Police accuse man of reckless driving in Mt. Washington; Pittsburgh Water rate hikes considered [TribLive] Public Input Hearing Regarding Pittsburgh Water's Proposed Rate Filing [Pittsburgh Water] Pittsburgh Symphony 25/26 Schooltime Call for Scores from Pennsylvania Composers [American Composer Forum] Better Maid Donuts Closing [Instagram] Who Makes the Best Donuts in Pittsburgh? [City Cast Pittsburgh] Unfettered [Penguin Random House] Radical Tenderness [Penguin Random House] Learn more about the sponsors of this August 1st episode: Downtown Cleveland Ohio Wines Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't let the heat stop you from experiencing all that Pittsburgh has to offer this month! August is time for some of the city's most beloved food festivals, and there's also a music festival benefiting our immigrant and refugee communities. Plus, if you're trying to squeeze in one more vacation before summer's over, check out these quick day trips that are no more than two hours away from Pittsburgh. If you're new here, welcome! We've put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Pittsburgh community.  For even more tips on how to make the most of August in Pittsburgh, check out Hey Pittsburgh's take on what to do this month.  City Cast Pittsburgh's Guide to August is made possible by our awesome sponsors: Downtown Cleveland, Ohio Wines and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. If you enjoyed today's interview with Ohio Wine's Executive Director, Christy Eckstein, and Director of Agriculture, Brian Baldridge, learn more here. And City Cast Pittsburgh is also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Reach us at pittsburgh@citycast.fm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pittsburgh is a beer destination, and it has a lot in common with Cleveland's scene! If you're tired of drinking the same brews over the same views here at home, Aadam Soorma from Trace Brewing and City Cast's own Owen Gabbey have some great suggestions for breweries worth the drive in Ohio.  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 30th episode: Downtown Cleveland Ohio Wines Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're all about weekend getaways, and we're making the case for why your next vacation should be in Cleveland. Host Megan Harris is chatting with City Paper's Colin Williams and City Cast Pittsburgh contributor Meg St-Esprit about all the sights the 'Land has to offer, plus sharing listener recommendations for how to best experience the City of Trees. We're talking about adventures in a national park, giant pastrami sandwiches, and why one Pittsburgher might be a Browns fan this fall.  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 29th episode: Downtown Cleveland Ohio Wines Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sure, the age-old Steelers-Browns rivalry makes us think we should hate on Cleveland, but the Mistake on the Lake has its champions, including a few who think it's in both our best interests to join forces. Chris Briem, a regional economist at the University of Pittsburgh's Center for Social and Urban Research, is here to pitch his vision for Cleveburgh: one combined metro region living in harmony. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 28th episode: Downtown Cleveland Ohio Wines Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While the statistics say crime is going down in the South Side, a few weekends of unruly crowds have leaders talking about a potential curfew for East Carson Street. After decades without a grocery store, Downtown's getting a full-service market with fresh and organic produce, a florist, and even a juice bar. Plus, we're talking about the tools our city has to check on the status of all those closed bridges — and see what construction's in the pipeline.  Notes and references from today's show: East Carson Street closure and checkpoints could be coming to South Side amid rowdy crowds crackdown [KDKA] 11 Investigates Exclusive: Pittsburgh considering closing East Carson Street on weekend nights [WPXI] South Side's late-night revelry prompts fresh scrutiny and familiar fears [TribLive] Pittsburgh Monthly Incident Dataset 2024 [Pittsburgh Police] Pittsburgh Monthly Criminal Activity Dashboard [Pittsburgh Police] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] Why does Pittsburgh have so many glass block windows? [WESA] More Pittsburgh bridges rated ‘poor' than before Fern Hollow collapse [PublicSource] City Bridge Projects [City of Pittsburgh] Bridges Dashboard [City of Pittsburgh] One in five Pittsburgh area roads rated poor for roughness; Route 228 tops the list [WTAE] New grocery store to open in Downtown Pittsburgh [WTAE] U.S. House subcommittee backs Rep. Summer Lee's effort to subpoena Epstein files [WESA] Pennsylvania 911 outage was caused by operating system issue, not cyberattack, preliminary report says [CBS News Philadelphia] Have thoughts about a potential curfew on East Carson Street? Call or text the SOUTH SIDE HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 25th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Bike PGH Quantum Theatre Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pennsylvania's state budget is late — for the fourth year in a row! And all the transit agencies, school districts, and local governments waiting for state funding are left in limbo. We're teaming up with City Cast Philly and Spotlight PA Capitol reporter Stephen Caruso to talk about why we're always running behind and when it's time to push the panic button. Plus, how the battle over legalizing cannabis fits into budget negotiations.  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 24th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Bike PGH Quantum Theatre Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In January, the City Cast Pittsburgh team made a list of restaurants we wanted to try in 2025. Now that we're halfway through the year, the team's checking in to see where we've eaten, what we'd order again, and what new spots we want to try next.  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 23rd episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Bike PGH Quantum Theatre Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking to get away from Pittsburgh? Whether it's just a day trip or an overnight stay, there are so many spots to choose from all within two hours. You don't need to spend big on a flight to find museums, great food, and more fun. We're with City Paper's Colin Williams to get his take on the most underrated day trip destinations in the area. If you enjoyed today's interview with VisAbility's President & CEO, Erika Petach, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 22nd episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Bike PGH Quantum Theatre Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buying a house for the first time can be stressful and overwhelming. How and when do you start the search? Should you line up the financial help first? How do you know what you qualify for? Anne Schwan, a homeownership counselor at NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania, is here to walk you through what you need to know before you start browsing Zillow and what kind of financial support is available for first-time homebuyers in our region. Plus, she explains how a Pittsburgher started a national housing movement. Check out NeighborWorks' resources for homebuyers and homeowners. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 21st episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Bike PGH Quantum Theatre Overlook Maps TurboTenant Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Donald Trump and U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick promised more than $90 billion in private sector investments for PA to become a hub for energy and AI at a CMU summit this week. We talk about potential projects like data centers, power plant upgrades, and natural gas pipelines — and how much of that cash is likely to affect us in Western Pennsylvania. Outside the summit, CMU students and environmental activists protested the visit, and at least a few were met with pepper spray and campus censorship. Meanwhile, someone recently went rogue on Rialto Street in Troy Hill, and the city had to cover up their mark. Plus, we share a few wins of the week, like Emmy nominations for “The Pitt” and an overhaul of our city streetlights — and losses, like the Kraft-Heinz breakup and PNC Park's big spending to make up for the Bucco Bricks disaster. Notes and references from today's show: Energy/Innovation Summit: An overview the $90B plus in investments announced Tuesday [Pittsburgh Business-Times] Trump promotes energy and tech investments at a summit in Pennsylvania [Associated Press] Dave McCormick, Donald Trump announce billions in AI and energy investments in Pa. at innovation summit [Philadelphia Inquirer] Trump pledges more power to match AI investments in Pennsylvania [Axios] Pittsburgh police use pepper spray on energy summit protesters [TribLive] Fence fight: CMU orders students' anti-Trump message painted over ahead of president's visit [TribLive] CMU community pushes back on AI summit with paint, petitions, and protests [90.5 WESA] Pittsburgh Leads While Demanding Better from Washington [City of Pittsburgh] Mike Rowe warns of a ‘will gap' as millions of men abandon workforce — here's why [Yahoo Finance] Trump and the energy industry are eager to power AI with fossil fuels [Wired] Google career certificates and AI courses [Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh] What's next for Pittsburgh after big-time summit? [Pittsburgh Business-Times] Trump administration taking new steps to block wind and solar projects, undisclosed memo says [Politico] TRIVIA: How well do you know Pittsburgh's ice cream history? [City Cast Pittsburgh] When and how did Rialto get a divider line? [Reddit] Climb Pittsburgh's 900+ City Steps [City Cast Pittsburgh] Safer city, brighter future [Pgh LED] Pittsburgh's Best Gift Shops for Any Occasion [City Cast Pittsburgh] ‘The Pitt' receives 13 Emmy nominations [New York Times] What ‘The Pitt' Gets Right About Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] Big buzz for zero-proof [Pittsburgh Business Times] Pirates release plans for permanent display at PNC Park with the Bucco Bricks messages [KDKA] Pittsburgh City Council gives thumbs down to historic designation for Donny's Place [90.5 WESA] Kraft Heinz to split, report says [TribLive] Independents ask Pa. Supreme Court to let them vote in closed, partisan primaries [SpotlightPA] Big-dollar donors are helping fund fixes at the governor's mansion [SpotlightPA] Learn more about the sponsors of this July 18th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pennsylvania's regulations around alcohol are complicated, but Trump's tariffs are adding another hurdle for all the good folks selling us our drinks. There's an especially enormous figure getting thrown around when it comes to European wine – a 200% tariff! While a hike that big might not come to pass, bottle shops are already navigating some higher prices. Freelance journalist Aakanksha Agarwal joins us to explain how local sellers are dealing with tariffs and how we can continue to support our small wine shops.  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 17th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pittsburgh has the most public staircases in the U.S., but cataloging and preserving them is a relatively new priority. The City Cast Pittsburgh team headed up into the hills with three authors of a new book, City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide, to get a fresh perspective on our city's first form of mass transit and the rundown on which of the hundreds of city steps should be on the shortlist for a visit. Thanks to Laura Zurowski, Matthew Jacob, and Charles Succop for taking us on the field trip! Learn more about the sponsors of this July 16th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you were trying to convince someone to invest in Pittsburgh — say, move their company here or build something new in our city — how would you make the pitch? That's what Stefani Pashman thinks about all the time. She's CEO of Allegheny Conference, one of the biggest economic groups in the Pittsburgh area, and describes her job as growing, selling, and fixing the region. She joins us to talk about courting power players, what it's like to market a city that's actively redefining itself, and why business leaders do — and don't — want to invest in Pittsburgh's brand. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 15th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Cultural Trust The Frick Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ICE arrests in Western PA have more than doubled since this time last year, and most of the people being detained have never been charged with or convicted of a crime. From a high-profile raid at Tepache Mexican Kitchen & Bar to arrests outside of courtrooms, ICE enforcement is causing fear and confusion in Pittsburgh's immigrant communities. Meanwhile, several local law enforcement agencies are signing up to partner with ICE, which is slated to receive an additional $75 billion under President Trump's "big, beautiful bill." With all of this underway, we're bringing back our conversation with Vanessa Stine, senior staff attorney for the ACLU of Pennsylvania. She joins us to explain what happens during an ICE stop or raid, what rights immigrants have regardless of their legal status, and how bystanders can help during an ICE encounter.  Read or listen to a summary of this conversation in Spanish. **This episode originally published on April 2, 2025. Looking for more help and resources?  The ACLU of Pennsylvania has Know Your Rights guides available in English and Spanish. If you believe you've witnessed ICE activity in the Pittsburgh area or have any other concerns, you can call the main line at Casa San José: 412-343-3111. If you are experiencing ICE detention, you can call their emergency response line: 412-736-7167. Find the latest data on ICE arrests and removals at TRAC. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 14th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Cultural Trust The Frick Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anthrocon smashed records over the weekend, while Picklesburgh's in hot (or briny) water over using AI for its artwork. City Council squashed a proposal to let neighborhoods decide whether they want inclusionary zoning, and Pittsburgh International Airport is looking for volunteers to test out the new terminal. Host Megan Harris and executive producer Mallory Falk dive into these stories, plus share some of Pittsburgh's recent wins (national recognition!) and losses (the return of spotted lanternflies). Sign up here to test drive the new airport terminal, and report spotted lanternfly sightings here. Notes and references from today's show: Anthrocon 2025 breaks records as furries take over Downtown [WESA] Anthrocon's "no-skin" rule stirs furry backlash [Axios Pittsburgh] Be the First to Sign Up To Test Pittsburgh's New Airport Terminal [Pittsburgh Magazine] Local firm TEN tapped for massive LED upgrade at Pittsburgh International Airport [Pittsburgh Business Times] Pittsburgh International Airport service workers urge unionization amid low wages and demanding conditions [Pittsburgh Business Times] Allegheny County Airport Authority approves settlement with Hyatt Regency as new terminal nears completion [Pittsburgh Business Times] What Will the New Pittsburgh International Airport Look Like? [Hey Pittsburgh] The 50 best airports in America, ranked [Washington Post] How to Book a Cheap Flight Out of Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh council rejects 1 of 2 competing zoning reform bills [TribLIVE] Can Inclusionary Zoning Fix Pittsburgh's Housing Crisis? [City Cast Pittsburgh] How Lawrenceville's Solving Its Affordability Problem [City Cast Pittsburgh] New city controller report on inclusionary zoning cites lack of data to measure program's success [Pittsburgh Business Times] Housing market shift: Pittsburgh home seller profits drop as national margins decline [Pittsburgh Business Times] Pittsburgh home prices are up, but still affordable [Axios Pittsburgh] Clemente, Warhol, and Carson bridges up for historic site status consideration [NEXTpittsburgh] Time picks the 100 Most Influential Companies in the World, 2 are based in Pittsburgh [Pittsburgh Business Times] Fortune 500 Pittsburgh market caps Pittsburgh Business Times Steele says bill to repeal Sunday hunting ban rooted in environmentalism [WESA] Stomp till they drop: Lanternflies return [Axios Pittsburgh] Allegheny County is home to the first electric street sweeper in the U.S. [NEXTpittsburgh] Federal court ruling could reactivate funds for electric vehicle charging stations [Union Progress] Why Trump's budget bill could mean 'America's electric vehicle surrender' [Allegheny Front] Learn more about the sponsors of this July 11th episode: Heinz History Center Bike PGH VisAbility The Frick Pittsburgh Crossover Colosseum - Use code: DIECAST for a 25% discount Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you live in Allegheny County, your taxes went up — slightly — this year, to help pay for all the services we rely on. But the extra money isn't going to be enough. A recent controller report found our finances are "unsustainable" long term, especially with looming budget cuts from the federal government. Host Megan Harris is sitting down with our top official, County Executive Sara Innamorato, to ask what it's been like to plan around the chaos, discuss her biggest achievements over the past year — including affordable housing and financial help for first-time homebuyers — and one idea she spotted in Wisconsin that she really wants to bring to the Burgh. If you enjoyed today's interview with Heinz History Center's Anne Madarasz, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 10th episode: Heinz History Center Bike PGH VisAbility The Frick Pittsburgh Crossover Colosseum - Use code: DIECAST for a 25% discount Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pittsburgh's got its fair share of quirks and unwritten rules. Like why is someone turning left instead of yielding at a green light? And why do you neighbors keep putting out old folding chairs in front of their houses? The City Cast Pittsburgh team is running through all the essential rules for surviving and thriving here in the city.  **This episode originally aired on March 12, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 9th episode: Heinz History Center Bike PGH VisAbility The Frick Pittsburgh Crossover Colosseum - Use code: DIECAST for a 25% discount Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pittsburgh's got so many new restaurants, and the summer is the perfect time to explore them all. Enjoy some Thai iced tea and lobster pad thai at a patio in East Liberty, or load up on grilled meats at all-you-can-eat Korean barbeque on the South Side. There's even a new café where you can bring your dog, and they've got a menu just for your furry friend. Producers Mallory Falk and Sophia Lo run through these new spots and more.  Plus, stay up-to-date on all these new openings with our running list of Pittsburgh's tastiest bites. Is there another new restaurant we should know about? Call or text our MUNCHIES HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 8th episode: Heinz History Center Bike PGH VisAbility The Frick Pittsburgh Crossover Colosseum - Use code: DIECAST for a 25% discount Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Still mourning the fate of Century III? The mall scene is Pittsburgh's in a weird space. We've got our fair share of dead malls, but Ross Park Mall's still bringing in luxury brands, and Walmart bought Monroeville Mall for a whopping $34 million. Meanwhile, we're watching Pittsburgh Mills hang on by a thread — while its owners are quietly looking to sell the property. To make sense of our mall landscape, host Megan Harris is talking with Matt Newton, who wrote the book Shopping Mall. He reminisces about the peak of Pittsburgh malls, explains whether local malls are in their flop era, and shares ideas for how our current shopping centers could still thrive. He also writes a weekly newsletter called Homesick about place, identity, and the complicated nature of home. Check out our previous episodes about the rise and fall of Century III Mall and what's next for the former home of Westinghouse Electric. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 7th episode: Heinz History Center Bike PGH VisAbility The Frick Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Megan Harris and all 12 other City Cast podcast hosts (from Austin, Boise, Chicago, DC, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Portland, and Salt Lake City) compete head-to-head in a high-stakes showdown to answer the question that's been burning up our company-wide Slack for weeks: which city is the best for a summer weekend trip? From naked bike rides to ‘the country's best farmers market,' pickle festivals to Elvis impersonators driving pink convertibles, our hosts are bringing the best of the best of what their city has to offer. Did your city win? Take our interactive quiz to see which city best fits YOUR vibe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're about to celebrate the 4th of July, and we all know that the US gets repped with stars, stripes and soaring bald eagles. But how well do you know Pennsylvania's own state symbols? Over the years, we've adopted all sorts of plants, animals, and even a drink to represent our Commonwealth, but not all of these symbols and the stories behind them are common knowledge. Producer (and game czar) Sophia Lo is putting the City Cast Pittsburgh team to the test, and we want you to play along! **This episode originally published on July 9, 2024. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 2nd episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices