City Cast Pittsburgh

You know you've messed up when both the National Weather Service and Mayor Corey O'Connor have to call you out for your lies! The City Cast Pittsburgh team is digging into the drama around country star Morgan Wallen's concert cancellation. Plus, we're discussing some new life for old spaces – including a slice of forest life at the North Side YMCA! – layoffs at UPMC, and new regulations for vape shops. And in today's members-only bonus segment, we're talking about an infamous Pittsburgher (who was an answer on this week's Jeopardy!), and why the people of our city don't claim her. Notes and references from today's show: 6 tornadoes confirmed in Western Pa. during weekend storms [P-G] O'Connor says city wasn't consulted on Wallen cancelation [KDKA Radio] PennDOT considers repurposing site of old Western Penitentiary [TribLive] How Western State Penitentiary went from a global role model to an undesired derelict [Public Source] There Were Big Plans For Former SCI Pittsburgh: What Happened? [WESA] Allegheny YMCA reopens with accessibility, public health benefits front and center [City Paper] Pitt backs out of using Hampton Inn for additional housing amid permitting questions [Post-Gazette] Virtual Climate Action Plan Feedback Event Registration [Allegheny County] Advocates make final push to influence Allegheny County's climate plan [Public Source] UPMC lays off 200 workers, cuts another 300 open positions [WESA] New vape shops banned from opening within 1,000 feet of Pittsburgh schools [TribLive] PODCAST: PIT Says No to Noem, City Paper Goes Online & IZ Drama Continues [City Cast Pittsburgh] Bari Weiss Knows Exactly What She's Doing [New York Times] Scott Pelley on His Firing and the ‘Massacre' at '60 Minutes' [The Daily] Bari Weiss is such an embarrassment for Pittsburgh [Reddit] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, June 12th episode: Pittsburgh CLO The Frick Pittsburgh Westmoreland Museum Athens County Visitors Bureau Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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. 

Ordering chicken when you're eating out doesn't feel like the sexiest option, but City Cast contributor and Post-Gazette dining critic Hal B. Klein is here to change your mind. He's telling host Megan Harris about the best chicken dishes at our fine dining restaurants and why it's time to pick chicken over steak. Have a recommendation for Hal? Call or text our WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER hotline at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, June 11th episode: Pittsburgh CLO The Frick Pittsburgh Westmoreland Museum Athens County Visitors Bureau Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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 you love scrolling through Pittsburgh's wildest Zillow listings, don't miss your chance to actually go inside some of those fancy homes. City Cast's Megan Harris and Francesca Dabecco are running through some of the best home and garden tours this summer, where visitors can peek through Victorian-style mansions, restored rowhouses, and edible gardens. Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, June 10th episode: Pittsburgh CLO The Frick Pittsburgh Westmoreland Museum Athens County Visitors Bureau Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Ever wanted to make public art or host an event in an abandoned lot? City Council is considering a proposal to let residents put vacant lots and underutilized park space to good use. Host Megan Harris and executive producer Mallory Falk explain the proposal, plus discuss the unannounced visit U.S. Reps. Summer Lee and Chris Deluzio made to Moshannon Valley Processing Center — the largest immigrant detention facility in the northeast, just a couple hours outside of Pittsburgh. Then City Cast's Elizabeth Kauma joins to diss the ruffed grouse as our state bird (game bird?) and make the case for why Pennsylvania should be repped by the scarlet tanager instead.  Notes and references from today's show: Pittsburgh seeks to turn its green space, vacant lots to productive uses [TribLive] Adopt-A-Lot Program [City of Pittsburgh] O'Connor to seek state funding to prep city's vacant lots for new housing [Business Times] Two Pa. Democrats become first members of Congress to access Pennsylvania's largest ICE detention facility [Philadelphia Inquirer] ICE detainee who spoke out about conditions in Moshannon was punished, transferred [Spotlight PA] How many people held by ICE in Pa. have criminal records? Fewer than you might think [PennLive] When Do 'Detention Centers' Become 'Concentration Camps'? Experts Look to History [Marshall Project] ICE has detained hundreds in Pennsylvania in ‘collateral' arrests, most of whom have no criminal record [P-G] Should the scarlet tanager be our official state migratory bird? [P-G] Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, June 9th episode: Pittsburgh CLO The Frick Pittsburgh Westmoreland Museum Athens County Visitors Bureau Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Is Pittsburgh's beer scene in trouble? Earlier this year, Fat Head's closed down, and now both Penn Brewery and the Abbey on Butler have filed for bankruptcy. With these beloved spots in limbo and Voodoo Brewing hitting the brakes on their once-rapid expansion, we're wondering if this signals a bigger shift in our brewhouse culture. Host Megan Harris is with City Cast's Owen Gabbey to explain what's behind the struggles and why the landscape might not be as bleak as it seems. Need a beer recommendation? Call or text us our OWEN GABBEY hotline at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, June 8th episode: Pittsburgh CLO The Frick Pittsburgh Westmoreland Museum Athens County Visitors Bureau Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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 recycles some of its water, but not as much as Las Vegas, where the water there stays in the city. How else could a desert city possibly have enough water for its year-round tourists, a metro area population of over 2 million, and all those pools? The process just might be grosser than you think. With innovative recycling, strict lawn rules, and infrastructure to monitor it all, Vegas has become a global leader in water reuse. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Las Vegas podcast host Jesse Merrick to learn how the city makes do with what it has and how its practices could save other cities' water supplies. Plus, are any Las Vegans actually going to the casinos? Mentioned on the show: "Reality Check - There are Big Fines If You Don't Change Your Watering Clock" (Southern Nevada Water Authority) "Federal Regulators Cut Lake Mead Water. Can Vegas Handle It?" (City Cast Las Vegas) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It's been a big week for Pittsburgh public hearings! People turned out to share their passionate takes on the city's revised affordable housing bill, the county's paid parental leave proposal, and a debate about whether to keep Serpentine Drive in Schenley Park car-free. Host Megan Harris, producer Sophia Lo, and contributor Colin Williams dig into the debates. Plus, we share the best local spots for watching the World Cup, some bittersweet Mister Rogers news, and the pickle "delicacies" we plan to avoid at this year's expanded Picklesburgh. (No offense to any vendors, it's tough to pull off an edible pickle ice cream!) And in our members-only bonus segment, Megan is sharing a dispatch from the first Costco in PA to sell alcohol — and whether it's worth a trip to Cranberry for some bulk booze. Notes and references from today's show: Pittsburgh planners swing behind optional affordable housing proposal [Public Source] Parents say paid leave would be a savior, but employers say costs could shut them down [Public Source] The long and winding history of Serpentine Drive in Squirrel Hill takes another twist [P-G] Steelers and Acrisure Stadium announce lineup for Pennsylvania World Cup Fan Zone [KDKA] U.S. Soccer World Cup Watch Party [Riverhounds] Top 6 Soccer Bars in Pittsburgh [Visit Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh City Council advances rules for new vape shops, though existing stores unaffected [WESA] Police warning Pennsylvania drivers before law banning cell phone use while driving goes into effect [WPXI] Pittsburgh jazz guitarist Joe Negri, known as Mister Rogers' 'Handyman Negri,' dies at 99 [WESA] ‘It's a loss for the street': Jam on Walnut summer concert series canceled in Shadyside [TribLive] 4-Day Picklesburgh Festival Expands to Include Market Square & Arts Landing [Picklesburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, June 5th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust - TRAF Bike PGH Athens County Visitors Bureau Pittsburgh CLO Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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's ice cream and soft serve shops are opening for the season! Host Megan Harris is with City Cast contributor Meg St-Esprit, and Meg's sharing which spots have the best soft serve, custard, hard scoops, and more. Plus, she's making the case for why it's always essential to visit Page's — even if it means waiting in line below the drippy bridge.  And if you're vegan or lactose intolerant, there's still lots of ice cream for you to enjoy. Check out our roundup of our favorite non-dairy ice creams around the city. **This episode originally aired on June 30, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, June 4th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust - TRAF Bike PGH Athens County Visitors Bureau Pittsburgh CLO Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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 your summer bucket list involves exploring more of Pittsburgh, consider making a visit to a set of our city steps, aka our first form of mass transit. Pittsburgh has the most public staircases in the U.S., but cataloging and preserving them is a relatively new priority. We're revisiting our conversation (and city step tour!) with the three authors of City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide, who share the history of these public gems and tips for scouting them for yourself. Thanks to Laura Zurowski, Matthew Jacob, and Charles Succop for taking us on a field trip to the Basin Street city steps! **This episode originally aired on July 16, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, June 3rd episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust - TRAF Bike PGH Athens County Visitors Bureau Pittsburgh CLO Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Heinz ketchup has a chokehold on Pittsburgh. From stadiums and museums to our own home pantries, it's the brand on the table and in any good Pittsburghers' fridge. But does Heinz actually taste better than the competition? Host Megan Harris put the City Cast Pittsburgh team to the test with a blind ketchup taste test, comparing Pittsburgh's hometown favorite against several rival brands.  **This conversation originally published June 6, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, June 2nd episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust - TRAF Bike PGH Athens County Visitors Bureau Pittsburgh CLO Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Summer in Pittsburgh means neighborhood festivals, yard sales, and so much more! This June, we're checking out movie series, signing up for summer reading programs, and celebrating Pride and Juneteenth. Plus, we're emceeing a 100th birthday party for the Andy Warhol Bridge! And if summer reading is on your list too, don't miss our episode about all the other cool things you can borrow with your library card. For even more tips on how to make the most of June in Pittsburgh, check out our website. City Cast Pittsburgh's guide to June is made possible by our awesome sponsors, PGH Cultural Trust - Liberty Magic, PGH Cultural Trust - Three Rivers Arts Fest, Bike PGH, Athens County Visitors Bureau, and Window Nation. 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.

Where would Pittsburgh be without its libraries? Chicago is opening its 82nd public library branch in June, and loaning out books is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what these institutions offer residents. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran about how Chicago's libraries have evolved to meet community needs, from opening a food pantry inside a branch to turning student IDs into automatic library cards — and how they could be even better. Plus, are the Chicago Bears still the Chicago Bears if they move to Indiana? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

After almost three years of debates and hearings, the Pittsburgh Public Schools board voted to close nine school buildings and make other big changes to the district. Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor Colin Williams are taking their questions about what's next to James Fogarty, the executive director of A+ Schools. Then, Megan, Mallory, and Colin dig into the latest on Pittsburgh's budget (which remains bleak) and wonder whether a proposed tax on skill games, pool tables, and jukeboxes will add much to the city coffers. Plus, we get into some brewery closures and bankruptcy filings, Pride celebrations, and a very special Mister Rogers stamp. And in today's members-only segment, we're talking about a local influencer who tries sketchy gas station pills so you don't have to. A+ Schools is hosting its 4th annual Pittsburgh Collaborative Learning Summit today! Learn more here. Notes and references from today's show: PPS approves plan to close and consolidate schools, reversing board's November rejection [Public Source] Allegheny County Council elects 1st female president following Pat Catena fallout [TribLive] Pittsburgh's finances are looking worse than expected [P-G] Deluzio rail-safety reforms find bipartisan support, advance to full House [WESA] Welcome Back to the Neighborhood, Mister Rogers [USPS] New Brookline LGBTQ+ community group builds plans for Pride Month and beyond [WESA] The Big Pittsburgh Pride Guide [City Paper] Meet the local taking gas station boner pills so you don't have to [City Paper] Gas Station Drugs: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO) [YouTube] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, May 29th episode: PGH Cultural Trust PGH Book Fest Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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. 

Want to get a little ambitious with your backyard this summer? Maybe you're thinking of getting a beehive or some chickens, or you've decided that this is the year to install a deck, sauna, or pool. Before you go to Home Depot or call a contractor, we're here to help you brush up on Pittsburgh's rules on everything from how many animals you can keep to when you need a permit. We're bringing back a conversation with host Megan Harris, newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco, and prize-winning gardener Kaydi Gratzer about 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.  **This episode originally aired on August 4, 2025. Still have questions about what you can and can't do in your backyard? Call or text our HELP ME Hotline at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, May 28th episode: PGH Cultural Trust PGH Book Fest Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Looking for a low-cost, easy getaway this summer? Look no further than Cleveland! From free art to giant pastrami sandwiches, there's a lot to enjoy just across state lines. We're revisiting host Megan Harris' conversation with City Cast contributors Colin Williams and Meg St-Esprit about all the sights the 'Land has to offer, plus sharing listener recommendations for making the most of the City of Trees. **This episode originally aired on July 29, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, May 27th episode: PGH Cultural Trust PGH Book Fest Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Love Indian food, but want to indulge beyond butter chicken and naan? You're in luck! City Cast contributor Aakanksha Agarwal is joining host Megan Harris to talk about the diversity of Indian cuisine, recommend her favorite local restaurants and food trucks, and share the best dishes to add to your repertoire. Plus, she brings some hot takes about Indian buffets. Whether you're looking to expand your palate or looking for a taste of home, Aakanksha's got a rec for you. Did we miss your favorite Indian restaurant? Call or text our INDIAN FOOD hotline at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, May 26th episode: PGH Cultural Trust PGH Book Fest Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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. 

A new iteration of Pittsburgh's contentious inclusionary zoning policy is headed back to the City Planning Commission. City Cast's Megan Harris and Sophia Lo are with contributor Colin Williams to talk about how we got here and what we expect at the public hearing June 2. Plus, primary election results, a new baby lion, and our hopes for the NFL Draft clock.  Stick around for the members-only segment, featuring our picks for our Pittsburgh summer bucket list. Not a member? Become one now at membership.citycast.fm.  Notes and references from today's show: Voters pass ballot referendum on Pittsburgh's public notice practice [TribLive] Primary loss by Allegheny County Council president a sign of the times [Public Source] Most Pittsburgh votes go to Democrats in PA primary election 2026 [USA Today] Write-in votes in four Allegheny County House races could have an impact in November [WESA] Citywide inclusionary zoning swapped for bonus program [Public Source] Pennsylvania fruit crops decimated by warm April and hard freezes [WESA] Lion Cub Born at Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium [Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium] Second Glen Hazel bald eaglet dies; avian flu suspected and testing nixed [P-G] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, May 22nd episode: PGH Cultural Trust PGH Book Fest Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers The Frick Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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. 

City Cast Twin Cities host Sean McPherson hosts this showdown where 12 City Cast reps, including City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris, compete head-to-head and debate which city is the best for a weekend trip this summer. From hot tub boats (exactly what they sound like) to epic outdoor summer festivals, our hosts are bringing the best of what their city has to offer this season. Can Megan beat out her competitors from Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Portland, Salt Lake, Seattle, and the Twin Cities? Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, May 21st episode: ⁠PGH Cultural Trust⁠ ⁠PGH Book Fest⁠ ⁠Window Nation⁠ ⁠Pittsburgh Steelers⁠ ⁠The Frick Pittsburgh⁠ Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning ⁠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.

Allegheny County could become the first in the U.S. to require 18 weeks of paid parental leave for all employees. County Executive Sara Innamorato tells host Megan Harris why she thinks it would improve outcomes for both growing families and the county's economy. Plus, hear how taxes helped land the new Loews hotel (20 years in the making!!), how we snatched someone's headquarters from New Jersey, term limits for several elected county officials, and why she's getting hyped up for Nelly's return to Pittsburgh this summer.  Have thoughts about the county's proposed parental leave policy? Submit a comment to the county or register to speak at a public hearing Downtown on June 2, and check out the Forward with Families child care tool here. Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, May 20th episode: PGH Cultural Trust PGH Book Fest Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers The Frick Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

It's primary election day! Local voters are being asked to weigh in on one ballot measure: If Pittsburgh loses its print newspapers, should the city be allowed to post some public hearing notices online instead? Host Megan Harris and executive producer Mallory Falk explain what's behind this measure, the arguments for and against it, and why it matters. (Spoiler: It's about the future of local journalism and how government agencies keep people informed.) Before you go vote, double check your polling place and take a peek at your sample ballot. If you requested a mail-in ballot, it's too late to actually send it via snail mail, but you can bring it to one of the county's ballot return sites. Notes and references from today's show: Pittsburgh's Ballot Question, Explained [Instagram] Pittsburgh's Guide To Voting in the 2026 Primaries [City Cast Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh ballot question asks voters for options if print newspapers go away [WESA] City of Pittsburgh ballot question explainer [League of Women Voters] Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, May 19th episode: PGH Cultural Trust PGH Book Fest Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers The Frick Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Measles is on the rise across the U.S., and experts say outbreaks aren't hypothetical anymore. At least 40,000 PA students are missing required vaccines, and many schools have dropped below the 95% herd immunity threshold that helps stop epidemic-like spread. (Some Pittsburgh-area schools are dangerously low in the 70% range.) Why are districts letting kids attend school without vaccines or valid exemptions, and why isn't the state consistently stepping in? Mike Wereschagin, a reporter and editor with the Post-Gazette's investigative team, joins host Megan Harris to discuss his revelatory investigation and where we go from here. Mike and his team built a database where you can look up the vaccination rate at any school in PA, something the state itself doesn't provide. Check it out here. Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, May 18th episode: PGH Cultural Trust PGH Book Fest Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers The Frick Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Would Pittsburgh be safer if there were more automated traffic cameras? In 2025, Washington, DC, brought in nearly $270 million from more than 500 automated traffic enforcement cameras — including a single camera that issued $9 million in tickets. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host Bridget Todd about how these cameras work, the congressional scrutiny they've been getting, and whether they make DC safer. Plus, is DC becoming the new rave capital?  Mentioned on the show: "The deadliest road in America" (Vox) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Allegheny County Council is taking steps to oust Pat Catena as the group's president, after his campaign sent out a mailer claiming his opponent is "supported by an extreme left group that advocates for transgender athletes in our sports." Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor and City Paper managing editor Colin Williams discuss the latest, plus the county's attempts to regulate tattoos and mandate paid parental leave. We're also opening up the mailbag and sharing your thoughts on local stories like the Market Square teen curfew, questioning how many Steelers fans can truly exist in Paris, and mourning one half of the duo behind our beloved Pamela's Diner. And in our members-only bonus segment, we're joined by Pittsburgh Business-Times reporter Jake Dabkowski to debate whether Sheetz is a gas station or convenience store — and explain why the answer could determine whether it can open in city limits. Notes and references from today's show: Angry crowd demands County Council president's resignation [P-G] WESA Voter Guide: 2026 Primary Election [WESA] Pittsburgh ballot question asks voters for options if print newspapers go away [WESA] Allegheny County is exploring how to regulate tattoo shops in the Pittsburgh region [WESA] Pittsburgh youth, community members question Market Square restrictions at forum [WESA] Youth Forum on Safety and Mental Health with 1Hood Media [Eventbrite] More than 180,000 used free transit for NFL Draft in Pittsburgh [P-G] Unwind by DollTrap [YouTube] Steelers to play Saints in 2026 NFL Paris Game [Steelers] Gail Klingensmith, co-owner of Pamela's Diner for nearly a half century, has died [TribLive] Riverlife's Shore Thing returning to Pittsburgh for second season [KDKA] Gas station or convenience store? Sheetz faces zoning dispute over first city location [Pittsburgh Business Times] Have a question for our county executive? Call or text our PARENTAL LEAVE Hotline at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, May 15th episode: AIDS Free Pittsburgh Fulton Commons City Winery Pittsburgh PGH Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Power & Fitness Festival PGH Book Fest Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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. 

City Controller Rachael Heisler has been sounding the alarm on Pittsburgh's budget for actual years, and her latest report shows the city overspent by almost $45 million in 2025. How did we get here, and what can we do to get on better financial footing? Heisler joins host Megan Harris to explain why Act 47 isn't in the cards and what it'll take to get our revenue on track. Notes and references from today's show: Annual Comprehensive Financial Report [City of Pittsburgh] PODCAST: Is Pittsburgh Going Broke? [City Cast Pittsburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, May 14th episode: AIDS Free Pittsburgh Fulton Commons City Winery Pittsburgh PGH Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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. 

Let's be honest, the Pirates aren't always the main draw at PNC Park. Many of us go for the views, the pierogi race, and inventive ballpark food. So what's worth trying this season? Axios Pittsburgh's Ryan Deto and Alexis Johnson sampled the stadium's new offerings. They join host Megan Harris to share their picks for the best (and worst) new fare, from chipped ham fries and a foot-long corn dog to smoked turkey legs and Nutella beignets. Plus, don't miss John Oliver's take on Pgh newscasters' (poor) attempts to pronounce “boricua.” Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, May 12th episode: AIDS Free Pittsburgh Fulton Commons City Winery Pittsburgh PGH Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Power & Fitness Festival Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Our primary election is just around the corner on May 19, so it feels like a good time to take stock of how well our voting process actually works. There are lots of ideas for improving elections here in Pennsylvania, from opening our primaries to making Election Day a holiday. Host Megan Harris joins State Rep. Chris Rabb and Armin Samii, a volunteer with March on Harrisburg, to discuss some proposals — and learn what ranked choice voting has in common with Baskin-Robbins. Check out RCVis, Armin's ranked choice voting data visualization tool, and read up on the history of closed primaries in PA. **This episode originally published on October 20, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, May 11th episode: AIDS Free Pittsburgh Fulton Commons City Winery Pittsburgh PGH Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Pittsburghers, would your city be better if the bars stayed open later? This summer, Philadelphia is anticipating a record-breaking number of tourists coming to town for World Cup games and semiquincentennial events, so the city is allowing its bars to stay open until 4 a.m. during most of June and July. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Philly podcast host Trenae Nuri about the city's nightlife, and the pros and cons of this extended hours experiment. Plus, how to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary without feeling like you're serving a Trump narrative. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Gov. Josh Shapiro is suing Character.AI, saying its chatbots are posing as doctors and offering medical advice. Executive producer Mallory Falk, producer Sophia Lo, and contributor Colin Williams dig into the jaw-dropping details from the lawsuit. Plus, we talk about a new teen curfew at Market Square, staffing cuts at the Post-Gazette, an exciting summer music festival lineup, and the city's plan to add chairs and loungers at its public pools. And in our members-only segment, we talk about the drama around PNC's return-to-office mandate. Want to unlock the bonus segment? Become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Don't miss it! Host Megan Harris is moderating a debate about Pittsburgh's brand on Wednesday, May 27 from 5-7pm at the Pittsburgh Foundation. Reserve your ticket for the free event here.  Notes and references from today's show: Pittsburgh's pools get chairs, loungers for the first time ever [WTAE] 2026 Citiparks Lifeguard Survey [Citiparks Aquatics] New policy restricts when unaccompanied teens can enter Pittsburgh's Market Square [WESA] Walnut Capital to take over The Terminal in the Strip District [P-G] Pennsylvania sues Character.AI over claims chatbot posed as doctor [NPR] Shapiro wants Pennsylvania to regulate AI chatbots. How would that work? [WESA] Newspaper Guild members allege anti-union discrimination in Post-Gazette offer letters [City Paper] More than 40 news sources remain in Pittsburgh's fragmented media landscape [Public Source] As Spirit Airlines shuts down, businesses inside Arnold Palmer Regional Airport feel impact [KDKA] 15 Pittsburgh Music Festivals for Good Tunes and Community [City Cast Pittsburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, May 8th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh PGH Power & Fitness Fest Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

So many new restaurants are popping up in Pittsburgh this spring, each fulfilling a specific craving. Longing for gumbo and jambalaya cooked by a true New Orleans chef? Check out Roux Orleans. Want to try Austrian and Hungarian food all in one sitting? Make a reservation at Titusz. Curious to try dishes that blend New Mexican flavor with Buffalo comfort food? Grab a table at the Eastman. Local journalist and City Cast contributor Aakanksha Agarwal joins executive producer Mallory Falk to talk about the new spots she's most excited about — and pour one out for the dearly-departed Hemingway's, an Oakland staple beloved by generations of Pitt students. Read Aakanksha's roundup of new restaurants in NEXTpittsburgh. Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, May 7th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Pittsburghers have a lot of pride in our city, including our weird quirks and unwritten rules. Like why do neighbors keep putting old folding chairs in front of their houses? And why do drivers immediately turn left instead of yielding at a green light? 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 Wednesday, May 6th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Whether you're celebrating Mother's Day this Sunday or just want a weekend treat, there are so many great brunch options in Pittsburgh. Producer Sophia Lo and newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco are sharing some of our favorite brunch spots and items, including refreshing matchas, stuffed pancakes, and a croque monsieur with a Mediterranean twist.  Want the shortlist? Here are the four brunch spots we just don't want to live without. If you enjoyed today's interview with Luis Fabregas, Executive Editor at Trib Total Media, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, May 5th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust PGH Power & Fitness Fest Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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 just proved we're able to throw a great party for the NFL Draft. Could the Super Bowl be next? Host Megan Harris talks with Sean Gentille, senior writer for the Athletic, about why the Steelers (and Pirates!) want taxpayer money for stadium upgrades; the prerequisites for hosting a Super Bowl; and the likelihood of that even happening if our stadium doesn't have a roof. Notes and references from today's show: Pittsburgh talks upgrades of Acrisure, PNC in era of billion-dollar stadiums [Public Source] Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, May 4th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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 survived the NFL Draft! Executive producer Mallory Falk, interim social media manager Laura Tsutsui, and contributor Colin Williams are rounding up a few takeaways from the event, both good and bad. Colin's sharing what traffic enforcement could look like without the police, and after seeing Punxsutawney Phil throw the first pitch at PNC Park, we think his prognostication skills could be put to work year-round. In our Neighbors-only segment, we're bringing on former local journalist Jakob Lazzaro, and he's explaining why the public bathroom in the South Side's been abandoned after once being hailed as "the toilet of the future."  Notes and references from today's show: Tell Us What You Love About Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh sets NFL Draft attendance record [Steelers] Small businesses in Pittsburgh report seeing far fewer customers than expected during NFL Draft [WPXI] NFL Draft food recovery effort exceeds 30,000 pounds [TribLive] Transit Talk: Separating traffic enforcement from police could curb Pittsburgh's bad driving [City Paper] Pennsylvania Turnpike plans to text drivers about unpaid tolls, raising scam concerns [CBS Philadelphia] Environmental groups decry plans to burn more coal for data centers [City Paper] Allegheny County gets "F" for air quality [Axios Pittsburgh] The ghost toilet on Pittsburgh's South Side offers lessons for Downtown's new public bathrooms [WESA] What was your impression of the NFL Draft? Should we host it regularly? Call or text us our DRAFT HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, May 1st episode: City Theatre Pittsburgh Opera PGH Cultural Trust Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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 really comes to life in the spring, so don't miss out on exploring the city this month. We're looking forward to the 59th Carnegie International, food trucks at the park, neighborhood music festivals, and so much more. Plus, farmers market season is kicking off, and if you need help navigating the space, check out our etiquette guide to Pittsburgh farmers markets. For even more tips on how to make the most of May in Pittsburgh, check out our website. City Cast Pittsburgh's guide to May is made possible by our awesome sponsors, City Theatre, Pittsburgh Opera, PGH Cultural Trust, and Window Nation. 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.

Pittsburghers can hold a real grudge. There are so many local personalities and entities that have drawn our ire, from a certain healthcare giant to the major airline that ditched us to the soon-to-be-former owners of the Post-Gazette. Host Megan Harris is joined by a very special guest — her husband and former political reporter and editor, Jeremy Boren — along with local historian and writer Virginia Montanez to debate who exactly counts as a Pittsburgh villain. The discussion gets way more nuanced than you'd think! Thanks to everyone who sent in suggestions for Pittsburgh's biggest villains. Think someone's missing? We're working on Part 2. Call or text the VILLAIN HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, April 29th episode: City Theatre Pittsburgh Opera PGH Cultural Trust Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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. 

On this bonus sponsored episode by the Grable Foundation, we're celebrating a Pittsburgh original. What if learning looked like meeting an alpaca, zip lining through a park, or building your first AR/VR game — and it was all free? Remake Learning Days is marking its 10th anniversary this year, and the festival has grown into something genuinely remarkable: 266 mostly free events, 240 organizations, and more than 50 school districts across Southwestern Pennsylvania, all opening their doors from May 1–23. Yu-Ling Cheng, co-producer, and Stephanie Lewis, director of relationships at Remake Learning Days, join Executive Producer, Mallory Falk to talk  through what's happening this year, from archaeology at Fort Macintosh to downtown fishing to performing arts — and why families keep coming back. They also share how the festival has become a way for Pittsburgh families to discover resources right in their own backyard, and how you can find or even host an event at remakelearningdays.org. Thank you for listening to this special bonus Sponsored Episode by the Grable Foundation. To learn about this episode sponsor visit Remakelearning.org and Grable.org,

May 4 is the deadline to register to vote in Pennsylvania's 2026 primary election. Register to vote, check your status, and find your polling place on Allegheny County's website so you're all set for the primaries on May 19. We're kicking off our election coverage with the biggest race at the state level: the governor's seat. Incumbent Democrat Josh Shapiro's facing off against Republican challenger Stacy Garrity, who currently serves as the state treasurer. Host Megan Harris is with Spotlight PA Capitol reporter Stephen Caruso, who's giving us each candidate's highlight reel and telling us whether Shapiro can make good on his promise to GSD if he wins reelection — and if the state Senate flips in favor of Democrats. Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, April 28th episode: City Theatre Pittsburgh Opera PGH Cultural Trust Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Local leaders hustled to fix sidewalks, fill storefronts, and revamp public spaces ahead of the NFL Draft. But what's in store for the Golden Triangle now that the party's over? How much will Pittsburghers continue to benefit from the big push to make everything pretty before company came to town? Host Megan met up with Jeremy Waldrup, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, to talk about what's next for the neighborhood — including a roller skating rink in Market Square! — and why he'd like to regularly host the draft rather than court a Super Bowl.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, April 27th episode: City Theatre Pittsburgh Opera PGH Cultural Trust Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.

Are DIY urban projects the key to improving the infrastructure in cities like Pittsburgh? The grassroots group To Nashville, With Love has built and installed 60 benches at bus stops around Nashville, all without government approval. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Nashville podcast host Marie Cecile Anderson about what this guerrilla campaign is doing, why it's gotten pushback from the city, and where Nashville's Tactical Urbanism program fits into all this. Plus, the unique challenges of Nashville tourism.  Mentioned on the show: "Who Put Benches at Nashville Bus Stops — and Why Did the City Remove Them?" (City Cast Nashville) "Guerrilla Public Service Redux" (99% Invisible) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

The NFL Draft is finally here! Host Megan Harris, producer Sophia Lo and contributor Colin Williams share what we're looking forward to (a Pop-Tart sacrifice!), questioning (a crackdown on bootleg sports merch), and still waiting to see (a fully-open-to-the-public Arts Landing). Plus, we talk about a court ruling that strikes down a state ban on Medicaid-funded abortions, a hunger strike at PA's largest ICE detention center, and a new, costlier city budget. In our members-only segment, we discuss whether Heinz is trying too hard, in light of the news that it's offering a lifetime supply of ketchup to the 57th draft pick. Notes and references from today's show: Pittsburgh International Airport is 'absolutely ready' to be the city's front door during the NFL Draft [P-G] Authorities seize counterfeit NFL merchandise in Strip District [TribLive] Pittsburgh has quietly started replacing colorful Wayfinder Signs with black and gold [P-G] Pennsylvania judges say blocking Medicaid for abortion violates state constitution [Spotlight PA] Commissioners respond to claims of hunger strike at Clearfield County immigration detention center [WTAJ] Council approves Pittsburgh city budget changes, including cuts to food justice program [WESA] As Trump proposes further cuts to science spending, this Pittsburgh researcher is moving to China [WESA] Popular convenience store chain plans to spend nearly $1 billion on 100 stores [PennLive] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, April 24th episode: Pittsburgh Opera Allegheny County Poll Workers Brew House Arts PGH Cultural Trust Serial Killer Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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. 

It's the season to celebrate great books and music! In honor of Record Store Day, Independent Bookstore Day, and National Library Week, the City Cast Pittsburgh team is sharing our favorite spots to find your next read or listen — from one of the best record stores in the entire country (according to Rolling Stone) to two new romance book shops. Plus, we discuss all the things you can get from our local libraries besides books, including cake pans, power tools, and adventure kits. Notes and references from today's show: 6 Free Things You Can Get With Your Library Card in Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] Find Your Next Read at Pittsburgh's Best Independent Bookstores [City Cast Pittsburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, April 23rd episode: Pittsburgh Opera Allegheny County Poll Workers Brew House Arts PGH Cultural Trust Serial Killer Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning 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.