City Cast Portland captures the one-of-a-kind creative spirit of this place and tackles who we are and where we’re going — from big deals, like equity and livability, to tiny delights, like the city's most wonderful doughnut. Our home is teeming with creativity and controversy, natural beauty and impossibly good food and drink. Host Claudia Meza is so over the notion that ‘Portland is over.’ On the show, she’ll revive your civic pride and stir you to help create local change — through conversations with neighbors, newsmakers, artists and entrepreneurs about our ever-changing city.Â
The City Cast Portland podcast is a fantastic addition to the podcasting world, especially for those who live in or have an interest in the city of Portland. The hosts bring a conversational tone and cover a mix of important and serious topics as well as fun and leisure topics, making it feel local and loved. The podcast provides valuable local information without the negativity of regular newscasts, offering a refreshing perspective on the city.
One of the best aspects of The City Cast Portland podcast is the excellent mix of hosts and guests who bring great personalities and relevant topics to the table. The discussions are engaging and informative, providing listeners with insights into local politics, events, and more. It's a great way to stay up-to-date with what's happening in Portland while also learning about its history, culture, and offerings.
Another positive aspect is the thoughtful approach taken by the producers to see multiple sides of important issues. This level of curiosity and thoughtfulness sets this podcast apart from others in its genre by truly connecting with the community. The variety of topics covered is also commendable, ensuring that listeners get a well-rounded view of all things Portland.
While it's challenging to find any major faults with this podcast, one minor drawback could be that it may not appeal to those outside of Portland or who have no interest in the city. However, for locals or individuals looking to learn more about Portland specifically, this is an outstanding resource.
In conclusion, The City Cast Portland podcast is an exceptional source for all things related to Portland. With its conversational tone, engaging hosts, diverse range of topics, and commitment to digging deep into local issues, it offers a unique perspective on this vibrant city. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to Portland, this podcast will deepen your knowledge and appreciation for all that the city has to offer. Highly recommended!
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We're talking about our city's best food carts, Portland Mercury's Burger Week, and the best places to eat on your way to the coast. Joining host Claudia Meza are Portland Mercury managing editor Katherine Chew Hamilton and local food reporter Alex Frane. Become a member of City Cast Portland! Join today, and we'll send you some exclusive City Cast Portland swag, while supplies last. Get all the details and sign up here. Discussed in today's episode: Portland's Top 20 Food Carts [Portland Mercury] Burger Week [EverOut] Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 12th episode: Portland Spirit Rose City Comic Con Burger Week Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20
We're talking about the Lloyd Center's bittersweet final weekend. We're also looking ahead to this week's big deadline for Moda Center negotiations and breaking down the latest in the aftermath of the Centennial Mills warehouse fire. Joining host Claudia Meza are KBOO news director Althea Billings and our very own executive producer John Notarianni. Become a member of City Cast Portland! Join today, and we'll send you some exclusive City Cast Portland swag, while supplies last. Get all the details and sign up here. Discussed in today's episode: 5 things to know before Wednesday's vote on Moda Center negotiations [OPB] Portland officials push back on Union Pacific's plan to resume rail traffic near Centennial Mills [OPB] 'High likelihood' of human remains in burned-out Centennial Mills building, officials say [KGW] Areas of Pearl District test positive for asbestos after Centennial Mills fire [KATU] Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 11th episode: Portland Spirit Rose City Comic Con Burger Week Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 Grand Central Bakery pFriem Beer
We're talking about a Portland city councilor who was caught burning yard waste during the worst wildfire season on record and a proposal to ban right turns on red at certain intersections. Plus we're also sifting through Portland's biggest online gripes. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week City Hall reporter, Sophie Peel, and our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Become a member of City Cast Portland! Join today, and we'll send you some exclusive City Cast Portland swag, while supplies last. Get all the details and sign up here. Discussed in today's episode: Portland to consider banning right turns at red lights in certain areas [KOIN] City Councilor Mitch Green Violated Burn Ban by Starting Backyard Brush Fire [Willamette Week] Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 10th episode: Portland Spirit Rose City Comic Con Burger Week Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20
As much as you love Portland, city living inherently means sharing space and resources with your neighbors, and y'all certainly have complaints, questions, and quandaries. On today's very first call-in episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz is joined by Bridget Todd, host of City Cast DC, and Jane C. Hu, host of City Cast Seattle, to respond to your dilemmas, from when it's acceptable to intervene on a bike path to what to do about that neighbor who really lets it all hang out. Have more city dilemmas? Send them in for our next call-in show. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We've got updates on the I-5 Rose Quarter renovation, the climate cash for cops ballot initiative, and Portland's toxic air quality as we bring back our news lightning round. Plus, we're looking at big incentives being paid to bring tenants downtown, and we're digging into our mailbag to hear from you, our listeners. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler, and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Become a member of City Cast Portland! Join today, and we'll send you some exclusive City Cast Portland swag, while supplies last. Get all the details and sign up here. Discussed in today's episode: As Oregon burns and gamblers bet, lawmakers push back against wildfire betting markets drawing millions [Oregonian] Portland had worst air quality in the world among major cities as wildfire smoke envelops area [Oregonian] Price tag of Portland's Rose Quarter road project jumps past $3B as funding gap balloons, records show [Oregonian] Effort to Send Climate Dollars to Cops Won't Qualify For November Ballot [Portland Mercury] To Attract Tenants, Desperate Downtown Building Owners Roll Out Rich Broker Incentives [Willamette Week] Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 6th episode: D'Amore Law
We're talking about a lawsuit alleging a nearly year-long cockroach infestation at a Home Forward property. Plus, an insider's look at this year's Helium Comedy Club Portland's funniest person competition, and we're also looking into how the Parkrose neighborhood is coming together to fight food insecurity. Joining host Claudia Meza are local comedian Jay Flewelling and Bryan M. Vance, founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly neighborhood grocery economy newsletter. Discussed in today's episode: Tenant Sues Home Forward Over Cockroach Infestation [Willamette Week] Portland's Affordable Housing ‘Cleanup Guy' on Why Things Are So Effed [City Cast Portland] The 2026 Portland's Funniest Person Competition [Helium] Parkrose Lost Its Grocery Store. Now the Community Is Building the Store It Wants [Stumptown Savings] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 5th episode: D'Amore Law
Today we're talking about how Oregon's wildfires are the largest in our state's history. Plus, Salem is standing up against encroaching data centers, and there's a more probable reason that our airport's trees are dying. And no, it's not dog pee. Joining host Claudia Meza are KBOO news director Althea Billings and Zach Urness, outdoors editor and host of the "Explore Oregon" podcast at the Statesman Journal. Become a member of City Cast Portland! Join today, and we'll send you some exclusive City Cast Portland swag, while supplies last. Get all the details and sign up here. Discussed in today's episode: A Horticulturist Weighs In on the Struggling Trees at Portland International Airport [Willamette Week] Oregon wildfires set record for acres burned, new fires spark evacuations [Statesman Journal] Oregon Gov. Kotek stops state from selling land for Salem data center [OPB] Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 3rd episode: D'Amore Law
Today on City Cast Portland, can Portland snag the world-famous James Beard food awards from Chicago? And could Pioneer Place become the new Lloyd Center? Plus, The Malarkey steakhouse opened, and so have some bars that are a good place to party. Joining host Claudia Meza are food and drink reporters Brooke Jackson-Glidden and Alex Frane. Discussed in today's episode: Velvet booths? Stripper poles? Meet The Malarkey, celebrity chef's over-the-top Portland steakhouse [Oregonian] As the sun sets on Lloyd Center, key tenants are moving to Pioneer Place. Could it become Portland's next ‘indie' mall? [Oregonian] Portland's New Eastside Cocktail Haunt Delivers Jucy Lucys and Refined Hotel Bar Vibes [Eater PDX] Belmont's Famed Aalto Lounge Enters a New Era [Eater PDX] Cliff's Hums With Community Spirit at Its New Alberta Home [Eater PDX] Good Girl Is the Central Eastside's New “Slutty Goth Dive Bar” [Eater PDX] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 3rd episode: D'Amore Law
Do you know how zoning laws affect Portland's housing costs? New Haven, CT, has been governed for years by restrictive zoning that made it physically impossible to build tall buildings downtown, even for housing — that is, until the local government finally aligned to overturn it. City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with Eli Sabin, a New Haven native and one of the alders (aka city council members) responsible for passing this change in recent months. Eli spent years working toward this goal, and he talks with David about what now needs to happen to fully realize its potential and increase affordability for locals. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about why efforts to fund cops with climate dollars aren't going as smoothly as some had hoped, and we have updates on our state hospital's troubling patient care record. Plus, why City Hall is shutting down a beloved, nearly half-century-long summer tradition at a Brooklyn neighborhood park. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel and Oregonian homelessness and mental health reporter Lillian Mongeau Hughes. Discussed in today's episode: City Orders Citizen-Run Youth Program to Discontinue Popular Waterslide [Willamette Week] Initiative to Hire Cops With Climate Dollars Fails First Signature Verification Step [Willamette Week] Secretary of State Read to City Auditor: Tighten Up Your Elections Division [Willamette Week] Family says patient who died was ‘tortured' at Oregon State Hospital. Now they're suing [Oregonian] Oregon State Hospital admitted dead man, held another in filthy room, leaked investigation finds [Oregonian] If you have information about the Oregon State Hospital and would like to reach out to Lillian, her email is lmhughes@oregonian.com. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 31st episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation Rose City Comic Con Pickathon
Whether you're riding bikes to the cutest curated public art galleries, roller skating to some local hip-hop, or trying delicious Hawaiian shaved ice for the first time, August is the month that reminds you that summer is ready when you are. To help you have the most memorable August ever, the team at City Cast Portland has rounded up their top picks in food, entertainment, and everything in between. Discussed in today's episode: Camp Sage PDX Sidewalk Joy Ride Pioneer Court House Square Concerts PDX Hip Hop Week Piano.Push.Play. Portland Fruit Tree Project Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 30th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation Rose City Comic Con Pickathon
We're talking about how a single tree cost the city over $700,000 and a new local alternative to Nextdoor promising less snark and more community. Plus, we're gonna try to figure out what all those big booms people are constantly posting about online are all about. Joining City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza are Bryan M. Vance — founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly food economy newsletter — and Hays Witt, community steward of Roundabout Southeast PDX. Discussed in today's episode: Is this the culprit for those ‘WTF level' booms echoing across Portland? [Oregonian] City Ordered to Pay $717,000 to Portland Family Whose Home Was Crushed by a Tree in 2024 [Willamette Week] Roundabout Southeast PDX (to join, click here) Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 29th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation Rose City Comic Con Pickathon
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson is joining host Claudia Meza to talk about how things are going nearly halfway through his term. We'll be chatting about his efforts to keep the Blazers in Portland and to address growing homelessness. Plus, why police response times are climbing to a historic high. Discussed in today's episode: Tempers flare after Portland mayor casts first tie-breaking vote and councilors trade ‘daddy' jabs [Oregonian] Portland city councilors hold Moda Center town hall, discuss city's ‘gun-to-head' negotiations [Oregonian] Portland police response times are climbing to troubling levels [Oregonian] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 28th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation Rose City Comic Con Pickathon
Today, it's Portland vs. Seattle. Which city is actually better? We're listening back to a conversation with Jane C. Hu, host of City Cast Seattle. Stay tuned as we try to settle the question once and for all. This episode originally aired on December 2, 2025. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 27th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation Rose City Comic Con Pickathon
It's not a given that every Portlander will chip in to help their community. In this episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with writer Taylor Lahey about how functional incentives could be the missing link in traditional systems of donations and volunteering. Inspired by a waste exchange program in Curitiba, Brazil, Lahey is working to create circular systems that effectively incentivize donations and just as effectively get them into the hands of those who need them. When investment and morale are low, sometimes an unconventional approach is the right way to go. Want to hear your question on an upcoming episode of Your City Could Be Better? Submit your city dilemmas for our upcoming call-in show by using our Google Form: https://forms.gle/45X33jhGHf8BYDM5A Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about a Portland renter beating his landlord in court and Mayor Wilson's tie-breaking vote on a City Council ordinance and why some are not happy about it. Plus, we're looking into why our state systemically undercounts our poorest students. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel and Oregonian education reporter Julia Silverman. Discussed in today's episode: After refusing a $287 repair bill, Portland renter beats his landlord in court, wins $32K verdict [Oregonian] Council Passes Ordinance to Preserve 30 Jobs and Reverse Some Public Safety Cuts Across the City [Willamette Week] To fix the systemic undercount of its poorest students, Oregon may need to start from scratch [Oregonian] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 24th episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre PaintCare Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about the latest in the ongoing Moda Center negotiations, and why Preschool for All might need fewer seats in the coming year. Plus, we're diving into our mailbag and hearing from you, our listeners. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week reporter and author, Brianna Wheeler, and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in today's episode: 2 Pacific Northwest spots rank among the most dangerous in the U.S [Oregonian] Top Blazers official trashes Portland's draft term sheet: ‘If they don't want us, then that's fine' [Oregonian] With Blazers arena deal teetering, county leaders eye big changes to Moda Center funding [Oregonian] Preschool for All Needs 3,000 Fewer Seats Than Expected [Willamette Week] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 23rd episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre PaintCare
We're talking about the Guinness World Record our city just broke, why an energy expert is sounding the alarm that Portland is at risk of an LA-style wildfire, and layoffs at Oregon's largest private-sector employer. Joining host Claudia Meza are Bryan M. Vance — the founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly neighborhood grocery economy newsletter — and Oregonian technology and economy reporter, Mike Rogoway. Discussed in today's episode: Portland breaks GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the largest electric bicycle ride! [Portland.gov] Is Portland at risk for urban wildfire? A local expert who analyzed Los Angeles fires thinks so [Oregonian] Oregon's chip industry risks becoming ‘insignificant' globally, state report says [Oregonian] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 22nd episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre PaintCare
We're talking about our city's most overrated and underrated summer activities. Yes, we've got gripes but also tips about how to get the most out of a fleeting Portland summer! Joining host Claudia Meza are City Cast Portland producers John Notarianni and Giulia Fiaoni. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 21st episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre PaintCare Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about the news that Portland's housing authority, Home Forward, is in a bigger financial shortfall than previously reported. And as we hit another heat wave, we're also sharing the best places to enjoy a refreshing cold drink. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel and local food and drink reporter Alex Frane. Discussed in today's episode: Portland Pickle's Napoleon Dynamite Night Presented by City Cast Portland Home Forward Said Its Budget Shortfall Had Improved. That Was Wrong, Agency Now Says [Willamette Week] Portland's Affordable Housing ‘Cleanup Guy' on Why Things Are So Effed [City Cast] Rum Club Farag's Tope Landmass Wonderly Wayfinder Beer Blank Slate Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. 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 Portland swag. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 20th episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre PaintCare
Sometimes it can feel like the Portland government is two (or more) steps behind the needs of its neighborhoods. Enter the residents of Chattanooga, Tennessee. What Chattanoogans don't have, they make up for in advocacy, whether by showing up to city council and organizing for change or just doing things themselves. City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with creator and city lover Hope Henchey about how she and her neighbors are sneakily and secretly fixing up their city. You've heard of the Nashville bench builders — now get ready for the Chattanooga pothole fillers, sidewalk layers, and (literal) trail blazers. Mentioned on the show: Atlas Obscura feature on the community-built benches in Chattanooga Efforts by Strong Chattanooga to make a path through the woods in a sidewalk-less neighborhood Review of Hoboken's streak of zero traffic fatalities Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about miniature horses in classrooms and why one Portland EMT's fight against cameras in ambulances has gotten national attention. Plus, we've got a family-friendly guide to Seaside, Oregon. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week arts and culture reporter Rachel Saslow and our very own senior producer Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in today's episode: Hay, did you know: Mini horses can be service animals in Portland Public Schools classrooms [Oregonian] Cameras are starting to record patients in ambulances. Oregon EMT says she was fired for turning them off [Oregonian] Embrace Kitschy Family Fun at the Coast With a Trip to Seaside [Willamette Week] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. 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 Portland swag. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 17th episode: SAIF Grand Central Bakery pFriem Beer
We're checking in on how our county's drug deflection program is faring. Plus, we've got ideas for last-minute outdoor summer adventures and we're also digging into the best of Portland's missed connections. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week reporter and author, Brianna Wheeler, and Norther Emily, a wilderness skills educator, writer, and the founder of Wild Solitude Guiding. Discussed in today's episode: Meet the Portland teen whose $3 ‘one in a billion' Goodwill find could soon sell for $250K [Oregonian] After Anemic Early Results, Multnomah County Updated Its Program to Divert Drug Users Into Treatment. Is It Working? [Willamette Week] Recreation.Gov /Last Minute Camping Alerts /Camping This Weekend Missed Connection Portland [Instagram] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. 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 Portland swag. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 15th episode: SAIF
We're talking about the thousands and thousands of tires illegally dumped on an unsuspecting property owner and Portland Police's troubling response times. Plus, we're digging into Oregon's surprisingly competitive governor's race. Joining host Claudia Meza are Bryan M. Vance — the founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly food economy newsletter — and our very own senior producer Rachel Monahan. Discussed in today's episode: Man feels hopeless after someone dumps hundreds of tires on his Portland property [KATU] Portland police response times are climbing to troubling levels [Oregonian] Early signs suggest Oregon governor's race is competitive [OPB] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. 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 Portland swag. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 15th episode: SAIF
We're talking about the possible end of the psilocybin industry here in Oregon and the legality around the use of AI in local political ads. Plus, we're remembering Nutmeg, the cat who was affectionately known as the mayor of Sellwood. Joining host Claudia Meza are KBOO news director Althea Billings and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in today's episode: Nutmeg, beloved Sellwood CVS cat known as the ‘unofficial mayor,' dies at 19 [Oregonian] Over-the-top AI campaign ads will test Oregon disclosure law [OPB] ‘I don't think the industry can survive this': Oregon regulators propose steep psilocybin fee hikes [Oregon Capitol Chronicle] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 14th episode: SAIF Grand Central Bakery pFriem Beer
We've got ideas on where to build a new ice rink once the Lloyd Center mall is gone. Plus, we've got picks for the best new wine bars and local drive-thrus in town to check out right now. Joining host Claudia Meza are local food and drink reporters Brooke Jackson-Glidden and Alex Frane. Discussed in today's episode: Portland City Council rejects appeal, clearing Lloyd Center redevelopment project [KATU] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 13th episode: SAIF
There's lots to love about Portland, but being able to get in and out of it easily and cheaply can be an underrated metric of its livability. Accommodating, accessible, and affordable local airports are a specific resource that many cities need. To find out which cities are leading the charge and the kinds of amenities that elevate an airport to gold status, City Cast CEO David Plotz chats with Scott Keyes, founder and Chief Flight Expert of Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) about everything he's seen in his work and travels. How does your airport stack up? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about an incoming ballot measure aimed at giving the public more say in city budget matters, City Hall's newest efforts to increase affordable housing ownership. And the surprising championship a Portlander just won. Joining host Claudia Meza are OPB city politics reporter Alex Zielinski and Bryan M. Vance, the founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly food economy newsletter. Discussed in today's episode: Portlander spins to national Yo-Yo championship [Oregonian] Portland ballot measure for more public say in city budget clears hurdle [OPB] Portland councilors to consider lifting income limits for some affordable homes [OPB] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 10th episode: D'Amore Law Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about massive rate hikes coming for data centers across our state, where our Oregon students are lagging and where they are thriving. Plus, we're opening our mailbag to hear from you, our listeners! Joining City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler and our very own executive producer John Notarianni. Discussed in today's episode: Another Portland bar just closed. Are we in the midst of a new ‘barmaggedon'? [Oregonian] Oregon approves PGE's 29.7% rate hike for data centers under landmark law [Oregonian] Oregon governor says state is a ‘cheap date' for data centers [OPB] National report: Oregon great for giving kids health insurance, bad for teaching them how to read [OPB] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 9th episode: D'Amore Law
We're talking some of the best hidden perks you can get with your library card, the proposed ballot measure that would redirect money from the city's climate fund to the police bureau, and what to expect now that the decade-long $2 billion renovation is finally finished at PDX. Joining City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza are KBOO news director Althea Billings and City Cast Portland senior producer Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in today's episode: Planning a trip to an Oregon state park? Your library card might score you free parking [Oregonian] Controversial Portland proposal to redirect climate cash to cops moves closer to November ballot [Oregonian] Portland police response times are climbing to troubling levels [Oregonian] Increased police budget and staffing does not prove to decrease crime [Street Roots] Portland airport has finished its 11-year, $2.15B renovation. Here's what it looks like now [Oregonian] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 8th episode: D'Amore Law
Today on City Cast Portland, we're embracing the dreamy summer weather we're having by revisiting a conversation host Claudia Meza had with Eden Dawn, author of The Portland Book of Dates, about planning the perfect summer date. Whether in town, on a day trip, or an overnighter somewhere magical — with a friend, lover, or anything in between — she's got plenty of date ideas, from picnicking to horseback riding on the beach. This episode originally aired on July 21, 2025. Hug Point has been temporarily closed since the taping of this episode. You can check for updates here. Mentioned in today's episode: Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden Villa Catalana Cellars Sauvie Island Topaz Farms Lost Lake Hood River Fruit Loop Tunnel Beach Oswald West State Park Short Sand Beach Oysterville Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 7th episode: D'Amore Law Grand Central Bakery
Today we're talking about the legacy of one of the winemakers who helped put Willamette Valley on the map. We also have recommendations for the best summer reads and cool treats that are not technically ice cream (but are delicious). Joining host Claudia Meza are local food and drink reporter Alex Frane and senior artistic director at Literary Arts, Amanda Bullock. Discussed in today's episode: Joe Campbell, co-founder of Elk Cove Vineyards, dies at 87 [Oregonian] Phelp's Creek Vineyards Summer reads: Scavengers by Kathleen Boland Homebound by Portia Elan Famous Men by Julie Buntin Icy treats: Kulfi Cornet Custard Ice Queen Kate's Ice Cream Pinolo Gelato Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 6th episode: D'Amore Law
See if your Portland knowledge serves you well! In the first-ever Your City Could Be Better trivia episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz goes head to head with journalist and historian Alexandra Petri to see who knows more about U.S. history, geography, and celebrities ahead of the country's semiquincentennial. Sean McPherson, trivia wiz and City Cast Twin Cities host, leads four riveting rounds of questions covering everything from The Declaration of Independence to the hottest college rivalries, and all 13 City Cast cities make an appearance. See how you stack up! Mentioned on the show: Trivia Mafia website and locations Alexandra Petri's US History: Important American Documents (I Made Up) Milwaukee's block of Frank Lloyd Wright - Atlas Obscura Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking about how over a thousand Portland-area shelter beds are closing before the end of the year and what that means to our Mayor's efforts to end unsheltered homelessness, why a leading psilocybin therapy center is no longer treating patients. Plus, we're weighing in on Portland's pettiest gripes. Joining host Claudia Meza are Oregonian homelessness reporter Lillian Mongeau Hughes and Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler. Discussed in today's episode: Report Fireworks in Portland More than 1,100 homeless shelter beds to close in Portland area by year's end [Oregonian] In Change of Tack, Major Portland Psilocybin Service Center Closes [Willamette Week] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 2nd episode: pFriem Beer
Whether you're watching fantastical kinetic sculptures race each other, catching some live music, or slurping down a slushie, July is when our Portland summer hits its peak. And to help you have the most memorable July ever, the team at City Cast Portland has rounded up their top picks in food, entertainment and everything in between. Discussed in today's episode: Stumptown Savings Farmers Market Directory Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.
We're talking with District 3 Portland City Councilor Angelita Morillo about the interpersonal dynamics of City Council, the Moda Center renovations, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and much more. Councilor Morillo is the youngest councilor currently serving in Portland and is also part of the six-member City Council progressive caucus known as Peacock. Discussed in today's episode: Avatar: The Last Airbender Dueling Plans to Restore Public Safety Services and Jobs Emerge in City Council [Willamette Week] Reporting Live: City Council's Contentious Budget Meeting [Portland Mercury] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 30th episode: pFriem Beer
A Clackamas County official is accused of stealing over $200,000 of tax payer money. Plus, we have picks for the best summer food events and a highly scientific comparison of the Portland and Chicago dining scenes. Joining City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza are local food reporters Brooke Jackson-Glidden and Alex Frane. Discussed in today's episode: Fired pest control official accused of stealing $200K to buy drones, other goods to keep or sell [Oregonian] 6th Annual Tomato Fest Summer Supper 2026 9th Annual PDX Hot Sauce Expo Donald Daze Hazelnut Festival North Plains Elephant Garlic Hermiston Melon Fest Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.
Just how good are the sidewalks in Portland? The state of a city's sidewalks can be a good indicator of how healthy that city is — and pedestrian safety is just the beginning. In Denver, voters approved a new fee a few years ago to fund much-needed sidewalk repairs, and after a lot of back-and-forth, those repairs are finally underway. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Denver podcast host Bree Davies about what drove this initiative, how it's going, and who's paying for it. And speaking of sidewalks, do bikes, scooters, and people playing music belong on public sidewalks? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about improved wait times for emergency calls, what happened at the big Moda Center renovation business summit, and why it's getting more and more expensive to live in Portland. Joining City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel and Oregonian City Hall reporter Shane Dixon Kavanaugh. Discussed in today's episode: Portland 911 call wait times improving, audit finds [OPB] Dundon Offers Brief Remarks and Elected Officials Urge Moda Center Renovation at Business Summit [Willamette Week] Portland's cost of living is ballooning as city tax, fee increases pile up. Residents feel the pain [Oregonian] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 26th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation SAIF Grand Central Bakery
A Portland church is giving its land back to a local indigenous organization, and why consumer advocates are concerned about digital price tags hitting our grocery stores. Plus, we're sharing the most Portland missed connections we could find on the internet. Joining City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler, and the founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly local food economy newsletter, Bryan M. Vance. Discussed in today's episode: Four Amazon electric vans destroyed in Portland fire [OPB] After church closes, Oregon Lutherans return land to Portland Indigenous organization NAYA [OPB] Kroger is doubling down on a controversial price tag technology, including in Oregon [Oregonian] MCPDX [Instagram] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 25th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation SAIF Grand Central Bakery
We're revisiting a conversation about the essential neighborhood bars holding our city together. These community hubs are our third spaces, our therapist offices, and our quick bite options when we don't want to cook dinner but can't really decide on where to eat. Joining City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza to discuss their and our listener's favorite neighborhood bars are producers John Notarianni and Giulia Fiaoni. This episode originally aired on February 10th, 2026 Editor's Note: Le Bistro and The Garrison are no longer in business and closed after the taping of this episode. Mentioned in today's episode: LaVerne's The Old Gold Mosaic Taphouse Lucky Horseshoe Lounge Prost! Wilder Dear Sandy Dream House Tulip Shop Tavern Side Eye Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 24th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation SAIF Grand Central Bakery
A homeless services provider on the verge of shutting down could owe Multnomah County millions of dollars, and Mayor Keith Wilson's home-sharing pilot program that pays Portland homeowners to take on roommates is surprisingly not popular. Plus, we weigh in on Portland's pettiest gripes. We also remember a fantastic reporter and frequent guest, Zane Sparling. Joining City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza are KBOO news director Althea Billings and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in today's episode: Collapsing homeless services provider may owe Multnomah County as much as $3.6M, financial report finds [KGW] Mayor's Home-Sharing Pilot Program Receives Five Applications in Four Months [Willamette Week] Home Sharing Pilot Program [Portland.gov] Remembrances in Zane Sparling's name can be made here: Fight EHE and Oregon High School Journalism Institute Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here. Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram. Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 23rd episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation SAIF Grand Central Bakery
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