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 an upcoming event hoping to bring attention to Portland's bar scene. We're also looking into some recent food news coming out of a small stretch of Southeast Hawthorne that involves fires and a heart-breaking closure. Plus, Portland has been crowned No. 2 once again as America's foodie city, by a website that sells credit cards. Who's number 1? You really won't believe it. Joining host Claudia Meza are local food and culture reporter Alex Frane and Alex Caffal, one of the founders of Barmageddon, a grassroots, DIY showcase of Portland's bar and hospitality scene. It's our fall membership drive, and we're hoping 200 of you will join as City Cast Portland Neighbors! Get all the details and sign up here. Discussed in today's episode: Portland is (still) America's No. 2 foodie city, study finds [Oregonian] 'The internet is a strange place': The story of how a small-town 'COVID-conscious lesbian bar' went viral [Yahoo] Portland Cocktail Week Is Taking 2026 Off. The City's Bartenders Are Throwing a Festival in Its Place [Willamette Week] Portland Bar Coalition [Instagram] Support Likely Ivy Recover from Fire Damage [GoFundMe] Support Gol's Recovery and Staff [GoFundMe] 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 October 2nd episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre The Reser
Whether you're stuck in a corn maze, catching a local theatrical production, or drinking your weight in pumpkin cider, October is the start of the cozy season and we have some ideas for how to help you transition from the sun to the gray. To help you have the most memorable October, the team at City Cast Portland has rounded up their picks in food, entertainment and everything in between. It's our fall membership drive, and we're hoping 200 of you will join as City Cast Portland Neighbors! Get all the details and sign up here. Discussed in today's episode: Socktober with Street Books How to Waterproof Hiking Boots [REI] 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 October 1st episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre The Reser
Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking about one nonprofit's mission to open a grocery store in Old Town, and how two city councilors are proposing an increase in our city's existing CEO pay-gap tax. Plus, the story of Scout the hugging Golden Retriever. Joining host Claudia Meza are Bryan M. Vance (the founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly neighborhood grocery economy newsletter), and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. It's our fall membership drive, and we're hoping 200 of you will join as City Cast Portland Neighbors! Get all the details and sign up here. Discussed in today's episode: A sea of golden retrievers, a field of pumpkins and one very huggable legacy [Oregonian] 1st and Nourish Market [Stumptown Savings] Portland councilors seek major expansion of city's CEO pay-gap tax [Oregonian] 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 September 30th episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre The Reser Grand Central Bakery
Gov. Tina Kotek is running for reelection in a tight race against the same Republican opponent she faced back in 2022, former state Sen. Christine Drazan. She talks with host Claudia Meza about why she wants to keep her job and her agenda for her second term — including expanding universal preschool statewide, increasing affordable housing options, and fighting against Trump's funding cuts and policies. Editor's Note: Sen. Christine Drazan declined our invitation to appear on City Cast Portland. Discussed in today's episode: Gov. Tina Kotek Sen. Christine Drazan Oregon Governor Election 2026: Latest Polls [New York Times] 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 September 29th episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre The Reser
Today, we're continuing our coverage of the upcoming fall election with the three candidates running for Multnomah County chair. Joining host Claudia are current Multnomah County District 3 Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards, current District 2 Commissioner Shannon Singleton, and former District 1 Commissioner Dr. Sharon Meieran. Discussed in today's episode: Julia Brim-Edwards Shannon Singleton Sharon Meieran Fixing Multnomah County [Sharon Meieran] 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 September 28th episode: Oregon Ballet Theatre The Reser
What's a seemingly small project in Portland that's made a big difference? About 12 miles away in the Oregon suburb of Tualatin, a drinking water pipe has just been fitted with a seamless electrical turbine, so that an existing utility can now have a dual purpose. David is joined by Nic Westendorf, Tualatin's deputy public works director, to talk about the power of thinking local, using existing tools, and looking ahead to a sustainable future to inform what we do today. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Today we're finishing up our Portland City Council interviews for our fall election coverage with the second panel of candidates for District 3. Joining host Claudia Meza are current City Councilor Tiffany Koyama Lane, as well as Kellie Torres, who works as an external affairs and partnerships manager for Portland Parks & Recreation, and Tom Sollitt, who has a background in communications, programming, and events. Discussed in today's episode: Tiffany Koyama Lane Tom Sollitt Kellie Torres 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 September 22nd episode: PaintCare OMSI
We're looking into why a city campaign finance officer was lobbying city leaders in her free time — and just what might happen to roughly 20 school buildings if Portland Public Schools closes them. Plus, we're ripping open our mailbag and hearing from you, our listeners. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler, and Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel. Discussed in today's episode: Portland's airport watering hole has been nominated for best airport bar in America [Oregonian] A City Campaign Finance Officer Lobbied Councilors in Her Free Time Last Year [Willamette Week] What Will Happen to the School Buildings the District 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 September 22nd episode: PaintCare OMSI
Today we're continuing our coverage of the city's fall election with the first panel of candidates for Portland City Council District 3. Joining host Claudia Meza are current Portland City Councilors Angelita Morillo and Steve Novick as well as Esther León, a teacher and a physical therapist who works with incarcerated individuals. Discussed in today's episode: Angelita Morillo Steve Novick Esther León 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 September 22nd episode: PaintCare OMSI
Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking about a new book shop that's drawing hundreds of people to Hillsboro, and the mounting tension between protest groups outside of The Sports Bra. Plus, we're looking into a new report showing exactly how much energy Oregon's data centers are using, and unsurprisingly, it's a lot. Joining host Claudia Meza are KBOO news director Althea Billings and Bryan M. Vance, the founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly neighborhood grocery economy newsletter. Discussed in today's episode: Opposing protest groups clash outside The Sports Bra, mace used Oregon data centers by the numbers: 111 facilities consume nearly one-quarter of state's power, according to new report ‘Be a part of the story': Hillsboro's new fantasy bookstore brings ‘Hidden Worlds' to life 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 September 22nd episode: PaintCare OMSI
Portland City Hall is giving Dolly Parton her own day — and that's only the beginning of this chaos rodeo. Host Claudia Meza is joined by local food and culture reporters Alex Frane and Brooke Jackson-Glidden to unpack the Dolly proclamation, the alarming collapse of Oregon's pear industry, and where to catch the best horror films at Portland's most beloved independent theaters this October. Discussed in today's episode: Portland officials to proclaim ‘Dolly Parton Day' in honor of late country singer [Oregonian] As neglected orchards spread, Oregon's pear industry nears a breaking point [Oregonian] Clinton Street Theater Cinemagic Academy Theater Hollywood Theatre 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 September 21st episode: PaintCare OMSI
Would Portland be better with fewer vacant, blighted lots? In Philly, the answer is overwhelmingly yes, with significant drops in crime and depression recorded near newly transformed, “greened” neighborhood lots. But how did they do it? David talks with City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri and special guest Matt Rader, president of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, about how Philly prioritized revitalizing its abandoned outdoor space, the ways that having a nonprofit partner has made all the difference, and what still needs to be done. Mentioned on the show: Study showing 29% decrease in gun violence near transformed lots: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1718503115 Study showing 41% decrease in reported depression: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2688343 Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about how Northwest researchers are developing vaccines that could prevent opioid overdose deaths, and how things are shaking out at City Hall concerning the sale of the largest oil terminal in the state — located right on the Willamette River. Plus, we're previewing some of the best books to read this fall season and sharing a little preview of the upcoming Portland Book Festival. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel and senior artistic director of Literary Arts, Amanda Bullock. Discussed in today's episode: Northwest researchers develop vaccines to prevent opioid overdose and support addiction recovery [OPB] City Council Explores How It Might Impose New Conditions on a Firm Seeking to Buy Zenith Terminal [Willamette Week] Portland Book Festival 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 September 18th episode: Veganizer - Use code CITYCAST for $10 off festival tickets Oregon Ballet Theater D'Amore Law Grand Central Bakery
A Washington County board meeting turned into a viral moment when County Chair Kathryn Harrington silently flipped off Commissioner Nafisa Fai — the board's sole Black and Muslim member. Host Claudia Meza, KBOO news director Althea Billings, and Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler also dig into the Portland Public Schools recall chaos, where 43 laid-off educators are being asked back on a five-day deadline mid-school year. Plus. they unpack the resurfacing of District 4 Councilor Mitch Green's fiery 2020 tweets just as election season heats up. Discussed in today's episode: Trail Vigilantes Clear Paths When the Government Won't [Willamette Week] Washington County chair flips off fellow board member in public meeting [Oregonian] Portland Public Schools recalls half of laid off teachers. A handful of classrooms remain in limbo [Oregonian] Resurfaced tweets show Portland councilor's ‘pure hatred for the Portland police' [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 September 17th episode: Veganizer - Use code CITYCAST for $10 off festival tickets Oregon Ballet Theater D'Amore Law Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about the $2.2 million city councilors spent on pet projects — as well as how a Pearl District bar owner who once complained about crime is now being looked into for committing fraud. Plus, we have a new installment of Portland's pettiest gripes. Joining host Claudia Meza is Bryan M. Vance — founder of Stumptown Savings, your local food economy newsletter — and our very own senior producer Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in today's episode: Portland councilors directed funds to favored groups and projects, even as budget woes deepened [Oregonian] River Pig Saloon owner fraudulently obtained COVID-era business relief funds, federal lawsuit alleges [KGW8] A Secretive Push To Privatize Oregon Liquor, City Council Candidate's Embarrassing Website Mix-up, and Portland's Pettiest Gripes [City Cast Portland] 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 September 16th episode: Veganizer - Use code CITYCAST for $10 off festival tickets Oregon Ballet Theater D'Amore Law Grand Central Bakery
Today we have our second interview of the city's fall election with the second panel of candidates for Portland City Council District 4. Joining host Claudia Meza are current Portland City Commissioners Mitch Green and Eric Zimmerman as well as Jamey Evenstar, a former policy adviser to then city commissioner Chloe Eudaley and former chief of staff to current City Councilor Candace Avalos Discussed in today's episode: Jamey Evenstar Mitch Green Eric Zimmerman Learn more about the sponsors of this September 15th episode: Veganizer - Use code CITYCAST for $10 off festival tickets Oregon Ballet Theater D'Amore Law Grand Central Bakery
Today we're kicking off our interviews for the city's fall election with the first panel of candidates for Portland City Council District 4. Joining host Claudia Meza are current Portland City Council Vice President & District 4 Councilor Olivia Clark, Central Bike Squad supervisor & PPB Neighborhood Response Team officer Eli Arnold, and Portland State University capital projects and construction manager Jeremy Beausoleil Smith. Discussed in today's episode: Olivia Clark Eli Arnold Jeremy Beausoleil Smith 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 September 14th episode: Veganizer - Use code CITYCAST for $10 off festival tickets Oregon Ballet Theater D'Amore Law
It may not feel like it right now, but extreme heat is coming for Portland, and Las Vegas might have the answers you need. An already sizzling city, Vegas has continued to experience record-breaking heat in recent years, essentially forcing it to lead the charge in protecting residents from increasingly rising temperatures. City Cast Las Vegas host Jesse Merrick talks with David about the bold moves of Nevada's lawmakers, like mandating heat mitigation and giving away trees, and how some time-tested strategies still need to be tweaked as rising global temperatures present new problems every day. Mentioned on the show: Europe's 10,000 recorded deaths during June 2026 heatwave Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
With a two-mile stretch of southbound I-5 shutting down tonight, a county chair race that could reshape Portland's entire social safety net, and union electricians quietly packing up for Idaho, a lot is happening in the city right now that deserves your attention. Host Claudia Meza digs into all of it with Oregonian City Hall reporter Shane Dixon Kavanaugh and Willamette Week reporter Garrett Andrews. Discussed in today's episode: Authorities try to avoid ‘carmageddon' during 5-week closure of I-5 southbound [OPB] Endorsement battle takes shape in race for Multnomah County chair [Oregonian] Portland's Union Electricians Are Moving to Idaho at an Alarming Rate [Willamette Week] Get There Oregon [ODOT] I-5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project Website [ODOT] 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 September 11th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about the connection between a conservative PAC and some local chefs, as well as the new trend of local bars serving hot dogs and where to find the best ones. Plus, we're diving into our mailbag and hearing from you, our listeners. Joining host Claudia Meza are food and culture reporters Brooke Jackson-Glidden and Alex Frane. Discussed in today's episode: S&P 100 index to remove Nike's stock as turnaround work continues [Oregonian] Grassroots or Astroturf? “Go Portland Go” Campaign Backed By Conservative Donors [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 September 10th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation
Today on the podcast, we're talking about why shockingly few Portlanders think city government is effective, and why some tenants of Home Forward, the City of Portland's housing authority, could face rent hikes of more than ten percent. Plus, the owner of a roadside zoo in Bandon, Ore., is being sentenced to seven years in prison for animal neglect and other charges. Joining host Claudia Meza are Stumptown Savings founder Bryan M. Vance and Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel. Discussed in today's episode: Former Oregon zoo owner to be sentenced for severe animal neglect, drug offenses [Oregonian] Survey: Portlanders don't feel represented by newly representative form of government [OPB] Facing Budget Shortfall, Home Forward Plans to Increase Portion of Income Most Clients Pay on Rent [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 September 9th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation
We're talking about some newly opened restaurants to try out and a locally made game that is taking inspiration from our Portland foods scene. Plus, water rates are rising again, and this time it's Gresham's fault. Joining host Claudia Meza are food and culture reporters Brooke Jackson-Glidden and Alex Frane. Discussed in today's episode: Drawn Hungry 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 September 8th episode: Portland Bureau of Transportation Grand Central Bakery
Do you know what kind of surveillance technology is being used in Portland? In Nashville, the city government has blocked numerous measures to install and use it. From license plate readers to drone cameras, the technology is routinely rejected by the Metro Council and mayor, and locals are somewhat split on if that's for the better. City Cast Nashville host Rachel Iacovone joins “Your City Could Be Better” to walk through all the measures that the Nashville government has reviewed and rejected, why people have reason to fear the tech, and what the city may lose by saying no to surveillance. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza is talking with Portland Chief of Police Bob Day about everything from repairing community trust to stats pointing to a sharp decrease in homicides. We're also tackling the perception of a “blue flu” regarding increasing response times on high-priority calls. Chief Day started with the Portland police bureau in 1990 after serving with the Oregon state police and has over 29 years of law enforcement experience. He retired as deputy chief of the Portland police bureau in 2019, but much like Michael Corleone, just when he thought he was out, they pulled him back in — he's been our chief of police since 2023. Discussed in today's episode: ‘We are failing in many areas': Portland police report finds response times average 20 minutes [Oregonian] Portland sees sharp declines in shootings, homicides in recent years [KGTV] Complaints against Portland police rise in 2025, including 42% jump from within bureau [KATU] Portland ranks No. 7 among U.S. cities for its investments to prevent and reduce gun violence [Portland.gov] 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 September 4th episode: Rose City Comic Con Montavilla Jazz Salishan Coastal Lodge use promo code CITYCAST Portland Bureau of Transportation
Today we're talking about the opposition that's gathering against Portland's fall participatory budgeting ballot initiative and the latest on potential cuts and school closures at Portland Public Schools — and why, despite it, the superintendent is getting a raise. Plus, we're cracking open our listener mailbag. Joining executive producer John Notarianni are Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler, and Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel. Discussed in today's episode: Participatory Budgeting Measure Faces Organized Opposition, Including From the Mayor [Willamette Week] Portland School Board Will Weigh Contract Extension for Its Superintendent That Includes a Raise [Willamette Week] Portland Public Schools weighs raise for its superintendent as it faces budget cuts, school closures [Oregonian] In the Shadows: Records Show Labor Leader's Campaign to Influence City Councilors [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 September 3rd episode: Rose City Comic Con Montavilla Jazz Salishan Coastal Lodge use promo code CITYCAST
We all know Portland is a vegan food haven with all sorts of vegan-only spots, but what about when friends of all dietary preferences want to go out and share a meal? Today on City Cast Portland, vegan food enthusiast Sara Bahmanyar is sharing her picks with host Claudia Meza of the best spots in town for an easy communal eating experience to satisfy both vegans and meat eaters alike. Discussed in today's episode: Wajan Rangoon Bistro Thai Hot Pot Heaven Obon Shokudo Kate's Ice Cream Ice Queen Orange & Blossom 222 Pastry Akadi Coffee Beer This episode previously aired June 26, 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 September 2nd episode: Rose City Comic Con Montavilla Jazz Salishan Coastal Lodge use promo code CITYCAST
Whether you're picking apples by the gallon, listening to jazz on an extinct volcano, or sipping on a perfect Negroni, September is your gateway to fall while still squeezing out the last bits of summer. And to help you have the most memorable September 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: Montavilla Jazz Festival Biggest Clothing Swap Sunday Parkways Beilke Family Farms Skål! Negroni Week AppleRankings.com Get There Oregon 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 September 1st episode: Rose City Comic Con Montavilla Jazz Salishan Coastal Lodge use promo code CITYCAST
A couple of years back, we had a conversation with the always delightful Jane Kim and her son Ed Kim — the duo behind the social handle The Korean Mama. The Kims have nearly two million followers across platforms, watching as they enthusiastically dine at Portland-area restaurants. We talked with The Korean Mama and The Korean Son about what it's like being a mother-son food-influencer duo and asked for their top picks for where to eat in and around Portland. This episode originally aired August 29, 2024. Editor's note: Since this episode aired, Umma's Korean Restaurant and K-Food Grill have permanently closed. Discussed in today's episode: KKoki Korean BBQ Gabbiano's Prime Tap House Mosaic Taphouse Phở Nguyên The Chinese Cowboy (f.k.a Warsugai) Annam VL Ganesh Indian Cuisine Namaste Indian Cuisine 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 31st episode: Rose City Comic Con Montavilla Jazz Salishan Coastal Lodge use promo code CITYCAST
The Portland airport definitely has a lot going for it, but what it doesn't have is its own electrical grid, like Pittsburgh's does. For the past few years, Pittsburgh International Airport has been generating on-site electricity, more than it needs even at peak operation, to fortify itself against the kind of power outages that hit airports (unsettlingly often) across the world. City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris brings David into the little-known world of airport energy independence, showing how a one-time investment can bring the kind of peace of mind that both travelers and operators hope for every day. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about why the state is leading an ethics investigation into the travel spending of Home Forward's previous leader. Plus, the team behind the Safer Portland initiative to hire more police officers using PCEF money have hired a lawyer that's represented the Trump administration in court. And we're also covering what is known so far about local public school closures and consolidations heading into the new school year. Discussed in today's episode: Home Forward's Ex-CEO Did Not Get Authorization for Her Travel Spending—Including a Trip to a Portland Waterfront Hotel [Willamette Week] Portlanders Suing Local Elections Officials Hire Former U.S. Justice Department Attorney [Willamette Week] Which Portland Public Schools buildings could be candidates for closure? Early clues are emerging [Oregonian] Lake Oswego Modern Home [airbnb] 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 28th episode: Rose City Comic Con Northwest Children's Theater - Use code SUMMERSALE for 20% off tickets Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 Montavilla Jazz Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about why Portland area leaders are undoing a homeless shelter system they just developed — as well as the surprising and historic unanimous vote to expel a County Sheriff. Joining host Claudia Meza are Oregonian homelessness and mental health reporter Lillian Mongeau Hughes and Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler. Discussed in today's episode: Portland area leaders are dismantling a third of the homeless shelter system they just built [Oregonian] A photographer, chef and artist went from ‘living the high life' to sleeping on a cardboard box [Oregonian] ‘There's hope out there,' formerly homeless woman wants others like her to know [Oregonian] After a life spent largely on the streets, Portland shelter offered her stability [Oregonian] Oregon State Sheriffs' Association Votes to Expel Curry County Sheriff John Ward [Oregon Journalism 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 August 27th episode: Rose City Comic Con Northwest Children's Theater - Use code SUMMERSALE for 20% off tickets Stacked Piercing - Take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 Montavilla Jazz Grand Central Bakery
Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking about why there's a secretive effort to privatize Oregon liquor sales and what it would mean for prices. We're also looking at some of Portland's pettiest gripes. Plus, does a City Council candidate even know what our City Hall looks like? Joining host Claudia Meza are Bryan M. Vance (founder of Stumptown Savings, your friendly food economy newsletter) and our very own senior producer Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in today's episode: A mysterious duo is trying to get liquor privatization on the 2028 ballot [Stumptown Savings] Radiolab Presents: Dolly Parton's America 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 26th episode: Rose City Comic Con Northwest Children's Theater - Use code SUMMERSALE for 20% off tickets Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 Montavilla Jazz Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about Portland metro's growing home-based food scene, from donuts to birria to supper clubs — as well as the rise of Portland's tabletop gaming scene. Joining host Claudia Meza are food and drink reporters Brooke Jackson-Glidden and Alex Frane. Discussed in today's episode: Portland's Coolest Game Shop Hides in Black Water's Record Store [Willamette Week] Carmack's Maíz con Raíz Cooking with Rel Dark Future Guardian Games Everyone is John Shadowdark Into the Odd Thirsty Sword Lesbians Glitter Hearts Monster of the Week Mothership Dungeons and Drag Queens 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 25th episode: Rose City Comic Con Northwest Children's Theater - Use code SUMMERSALE for 20% off tickets Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 Montavilla Jazz Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about two Portlanders going all out for their cats, Mayor Keith Wilson picking favorites in the upcoming City Council election, and the plans for the fire-damaged Elephant's Delicatessen in Northwest. Joining host Claudia Meza are Oregonian City Hall reporter Shane Dixon Kavanaugh and Bryan M. Vance, founder of Stumptown Savings (your friendly neighborhood grocery economy newsletter). 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: This family built stunning replicas of Portland bridges in their backyard — exclusively for their cats [Oregonian] Portland mayor picks favorites in upcoming City Council contests [Oregonian] Possible plans emerge for fire-damaged Elephants Delicatessen [Portland Business Journal] 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 24th episode: Rose City Comic Con Northwest Children's Theater - Use code SUMMERSALE for 20% off tickets Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 Montavilla Jazz
Have you ever swam in the Willamette? Kayaked? Tiki toured? There are tons of opportunities to get in the river, yet lots of locals still avoid the water because of its (outdated) reputation of being polluted. The river is now safe and swimmable thanks to decades of work from advocates, journalists, and politicians to restore the ecosystem and cleanliness, and City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza joins Your City Could Be Better to talk about all the ways the Willamette can now be your urban playground. Mentioned on the show: Portland's riverfront park, named after former Governor Tom McCall Swiss residents using river to swim home from work RFK Jr. swimming (in jeans) in Rock Creek in Washington, D.C. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about the police officer suing an elderly woman for falling off her steps, the Portlanders being accused of using the most water, and a new city audit showing how bad the city is at hiring contract workers. 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 cop came to check on woman's welfare, then fell down her steps. Now he's suing her for $2M [Oregonian] Hydro Hogs [Willamette Week] Portland wasted $650k in tax dollars on contractors who couldn't do the job [KATU 2] 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 21st episode: Salishan Coastal Lodge Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 PaintCare Grand Central Bakery
We're talking about why our city is getting older, not figuratively but quite literally. We also have updates on the Grasshopper Wildfire and tips on how to be fire safe when recreating outdoors. 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 as well as outdoor educator and founder of Wild Solitude Guiding, Norther Emily. 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: 2 Portland spots make New York Times list of America's ‘greatest Mexican restaurants' [Oregonian] PSU Forecasts Multnomah County Could Lose More Than 17,000 School-Aged Children in the Next Decade [Willamette Week] Mt. Hood National Forest Fire Restrictions [usda.gov] 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 20th episode: Salishan Coastal Lodge Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 PaintCare Grand Central Bakery
Today on City Cast Portland we're rating local chains: which are our favorites, our guilty pleasures, and even the specific Portland locations of some sinful national chains our team enjoys. Joining host Claudia Meza are producers John Notarianni and Giulia Fiaoni. This episode originally aired on March 10, 2026. 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. 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 19th episode: Salishan Coastal Lodge Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 PaintCare Grand Central Bakery
Today we're talking about what happened when the state's human resources director violated their own policies, and how a Northwest tribe and local researchers are working to bring a sea star species back from the brink of extinction. Plus, we're picking the top local events you need to check out before the end of summer. Joining executive producer John Notarianni are our very own senior producer Rachel Monahn and our audience development manager, Grace Cohen-Chen. 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: Top Oregon state HR director violated HR policies before getting fired, report says [Oregonian] Billions of sea stars have died. A Northwest tribe is trying to save the species [NPR] 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 18th episode: Salishan Coastal Lodge Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 PaintCare Grand Central Bakery
Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking about why there's a wave of celebrity chefs hitting Portland's shores. We're also getting a sneak peek into Rose City Comic Con and Geek Week from a real-life nerd. Plus, a former Oregon congresswoman is now lobbying for data centers. Joining host Claudia Meza are food and drink reporters Brooke Jackson-Glidden and 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: Former U.S. labor secretary from Oregon lands job advocating for data center industry [Oregonian] Venice Meets the Pacific Northwest at Celeb Chef Michael Mina's New Portland Bar [Eater Portland] 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 17th episode: Salishan Coastal Lodge Stacked Piercing - take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20 PaintCare Grand Central Bakery
What will Portland do when it runs out of space for trash? Madison, WI, has a plan, and it's one that other cities could follow. What could've just been another county landfill, slated to open in 2027, will instead be a “sustainability campus”, where local businesses will unite to more intentionally sort incoming waste, increase recycling intake, and generally aim to slow the flow of trash. And Dane County has historically handled waste disposal in a savvy way, making big bucks off of trash collection that they then use to fund future projects like this forthcoming campus. City Cast Madison host Bianca Martin breaks this all down for David, and together they uncover the quirks — and opportunities — that come with talking trash. Mentioned on the show: Conversion of Dane County landfills into pollinator fields Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
We're talking about City Council approving the Moda Center term sheet and what that means heading into negotiations — as well as the wildfire risk within Portland City limits. Plus, Oregon is now the home of the last outpost in the world for two American chain stores. Joining host Claudia Meza are Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel and wildfire risk expert and principal of McCullough Research, Robert McCullough. 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: Council Approves Moda Center Term Sheet to Kick Off Negotiations With Blazers [Willamette Week] Could Portland handle an urban wildfire? Expert warns city isn't fully prepared [KGW8] 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 14th 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
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