Podcasts about austinites

Will That Thing Really Grow Hair? Raccoon and Owlet Updates!

Austin is officially the 39th happiest city in America to live in, according to a recent WalletHub survey. But what does that even mean? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Shaun Branigan, writer and actor at Esther's Follies; and City Cast Austin producer Elissa Castles to determine, using questionable scientific and math logic, just how happy is Austin?  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter..  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16th episode: Window Nation Downtown Austin Alliance

Public Armpits and Raccoon Whispers   “What would you do if a raccoon reached out and held your hand?” 

This week the State Board of Education met in Austin to propose and vote on newly rewritten K-12 history and English curricula that could include teachings from the bible and Texas-centric lesson plans. On this week's Friday News Roundup host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producers Eva Ruth Moravec and Elissa Castles to break down what these changes would mean for classrooms across the state and why Austinites rallied at the capitol in response. Plus, the team dives into a lawsuit filed by Texas businesses and industry groups challenging the state's recent hemp ban. And later, Dr. Ghassan Salman, the region's chief medical officer for Baylor Scott & White, joins the pod to share tips for runners running the Cap 10k this weekend and to discuss why Austin was recently ranked as one of the healthiest cities in the nation.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10th episode: City of Austin Taskrabbit Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce Window Nation Downtown Austin Alliance

Austin City Council members have a new plan to make downtown streets friendlier for pedestrians, cyclists, and mass transit-users — and think it will reduce vehicular traffic in the city's core. But it comes at a steep price at a time when many Austinites are wary and skeptical about council's spending. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to discuss the plan, plus the new rules now in effect for hemp retailers and a recent municipal payroll whoopsie. And, P.S., don't forget April Fool's Day is tomorrow. Text us or leave a voicemail about your favorite Austin prank.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

The Austin City Council has approved a plan to have new digital kiosks installed in busy areas around Austin to provide real-time transit information, wayfinding tools and emergency information, a rift is growing between Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra and Democrat State Rep. Erin Zweiner over high water-use developments such as A.I. date centers and many Austinites gathered over the weekend at the "No Kings Protest" to rally against Trump administration policies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark, Ed and Kenny discuss the City of Austin saying that Austinites can now run businesses from their home and saying that they overpaid employees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The City of Austin has redesigned its website, and Austinites have thoughts on the changes and the $1.48 million price tag. On this week's Tuesday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn talks with producer Elissa Castles and newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw about the website and what local Reddit users are saying. Plus, Hoover's Cooking, an east Austin staple for almost 30 years, is closing at the end of May, so we dive into the history and legacy of this Black-owned soul food restaurant. Finally, we open the mailbag to hear from a newsletter reader who weighs in on whether or not SXSW will survive without a convention center. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this March 24th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order Window Nation Austin Community Foundation UMLAUF Sculpture Garden + Museum

A mistrial has been declared on the first day of jury selection in the deadly conduct case against Army Sergeant Daniel Perry, transportation officials are hoping to move forward with a proposed expansion of the Mopac expressway as Austinites prepare to weigh in on the project this week and the Capitol Metro Police Department is weighing in on safety on its bus routes in the wake of multiple violent incidents.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark and Melynda discuss a vote for more funding for our war with Iran going to Congress, new statistics on how many Austinites use public transportation, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To most Austinites, the annual music festival at Willie Nelson's ranch in Driftwood is a mystery — one needs a bit of good fortune just to buy a ticket for the exclusive Luck Reunion. Before the festivities kick off, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by two people charmed enough to have attended last year's event: Tricky Jones, who sang with Jessica Simpson; and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec, to find out if Luck is really worth the hype.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter..  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  If you enjoyed today's interview with Michael Taylor, the Public Information Specialist with Austin Resource Recovery, learn more here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this March 18th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order Window Nation

Surveillance technology has played a big role in the investigation into the recent West Sixth Street mass shooting, and participants in this year's SXSW festival certainly understand they are being watched by law enforcement on downtown cameras. But how much surveillance technology is too much? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Mackenzie Rhine, a digital rights attorney and board member of the Electronic Frontier Foundation Austin, to talk about the Austinites who stopped the city from adding cameras to parks, Austin's new surveillance technology act, and if cameras can actually stop crime.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter..  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this March 16th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin Window Nation Downtown Austin Alliance

Austinites are concerned about police accountability, especially with the increased presence of federal troops in many cities. DC Council in Washington recently passed emergency legislation requiring local police to release body-worn camera footage of incidents involving federal forces they patrol with, and to collect the names of federal officers who make arrests. It's a big shift in local policy, partially motivated by the fact that local cops have damaged their reputation by patrolling with feds. City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host and executive editor Mike Schaffer about the political stakes involved, the effectiveness of body cameras, and how Washingtonians are dealing with the heavy federal law enforcement presence. Plus, Mike and Jacoby weigh in on public transit etiquette in their cities when it comes to people playing music out loud. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email us now! We're also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It's SXSW — and downtown Austin has been transformed like never before, with programming even more spread out than usual due to the lack of a convention center. So, what will SXSW's 40th year look like? Will running the innovation, music, film and TV, and comedy festivals simultaneously be a chaotic mess?  How can Austinites get involved without breaking the bank? And is SXSW ready for the crowds (they're expecting about the same as last year, when 200,000 people attended, down from a 2018 peak of 432,500) just weeks after the mass shooting on West Sixth Street? Executive Producer Eva Ruth Moravec sits down with Alex Casolaro, the director of credentialed sales for SXSW; and Wesley Lucas, the director of communications for Visit Austin, to find out. Plus, will SXSW go back to the convention center once the new one is built? Casolaro and Lucas say yes, while another company official hinted otherwise to Texas Monthly.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter..  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this March 12th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin TurboTenant Window Nation

Episode Description: “Did anybody else notice that giant gap… or was it just us?”

Last week, Austinites turned out to the polls in record numbers, eager to cast their ballots in this year's primary election. On this week's Tuesday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and Blaise Gainey, Texas Newsroom's politics reporter, to break down how Austin voted, what races are headed to runoffs, and what it could all mean for the general midterm election in November. Later, producer Elissa Castles joins the team to discuss the latest developments in the downtown mass shooting and what restaurants are worth a day trip out of Austin.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this March 10th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin Blanton Museum of Art TurboTenant Window Nation

As federal and local officials continue to investigate and look for a motive in Sunday morning's West Sixth Street shooting, friends and relatives of the victims are remembering their loved ones, and a memorial outside of Buford's Backyard Beer Hall continues to grow. Austin police have now identified two people who were killed in the shooting, Ryder Harrington, 19; and Savitha Shan, 21, and have said that another individual who was injured in the shooting is not expected to survive. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Austin City Councilmember Zohaib "Zo" Qadri to walk through the latest developments in the case, and talk about how his constituents who live downtown are especially impacted.  Edit: Austin police have now identified three people who were killed in the shooting, in addition to the suspect. Ryder Harrington, 19; and Savitha Shan, 21, died on Sunday, and Jorge Pederson, 30, died Monday evening. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this March 3rd episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order Downtown Austin Alliance City of Austin Blanton Museum of Art

With cooler temperatures falling further behind us, and a new local favorite's second location now open, it's time for a margarita. But with hundreds of options in town, Austinites might need a hand deciding where to go. We've got you covered! Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to narrow down the best margaritas in town.   This episode originally aired on July 16, 2025. Plus, don't forget — we're giving away a pair of SXSW music badges to a lucky City Cast Austin member. Become a neighbor today to be considered. We'll pick a winner at random on March 6.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 25th episode: Duer - get 15% off your first order City of Austin Downtown Austin Alliance

Everyone's talking about AI these days, including Austinites. And now, more data centers are popping up across the country, thanks in part to the AI revolution. But some cities are stemming the tide, including Madison, Wisconsin, who recently passed a one-year moratorium on new data center construction. City Cast CEO David Plotz feels strongly that this was the wrong choice! He's sitting down with City Cast Madison podcast host Bianca Martin to weigh the pros and cons of data centers, and debate the economic, ethical, and ecological considerations at the heart of this debate. Plus, David and Bianca share must-know tips for making it in Madison and DC.  We also mentioned this City Cast Madison episode. 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.

All eyes have been on the Twin Cities lately, including Austinites'. Operation Metro Surge is reportedly ending in Minnesota, with the withdrawal of immigration agents expected over the next week. Over the last two months, though, residents of the Twin Cities have organized a range of local collective action efforts including protests, mutual aid, and monitoring ICE — and they've done it quickly. In this inaugural episode of “Your City Could Be Better,” City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Twin Cities podcast host Sean McPherson about how his community self-organized, why these networks have been so successful, and what other cities can take away from Minnesotans' response to Operation Metro Surge. Plus, we have a D.C. vs. Twin Cities face-off on local cultural norms. We also mentioned this episode of City Cast Twin Cities. 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.

Have you ever wondered what animal you'd least want to run over—and why its only defense is its “liquid butt”?

The Texas Education Agency released new guidance this week outlining potential consequences for school districts if students participate in political activism deemed “inappropriate.” The move comes after Gov. Greg Abbott and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton called for investigations into the Austin Independent School District following viral videos of mass student protests. On this week's Friday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn and producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec break down what the state guidance entails and what it could mean for student expression going forward. Plus, a look at which Austinites appeared in the Epstein files, and a peek at our weekend plans. Where are you getting chicken wings for Super Bowl Sunday? Let us know! And don't forget to RSVP to our trivia night next week. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE Learn more about the sponsors of this February 6th episode: City of Austin Window Nation 

You might know that Austin got its name from Stephen F. Austin, the father of Texas, but chances are you drive on streets, bridges, and past buildings named after other Austinites, and you have no idea who they are. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined today by Adam Powell, the executive director of the Austin History Center Association, who shares the stories behind some of Austin's namesakes, like the newspaper man who helped bring The University of Texas to Austin, the World War II vet-turned magician who made incredible clothing, the man who successfully challenged the so-called Hollywood blacklist, and the alderman who died in the fight to rename 19th Street after Martin Luther King, Jr.  This episode originally aired on Sept. 5, 2025.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this February 5th episode: City of Austin Window Nation

A reality TV star recently announced her candidacy for Austin mayor, only to learn that the seat isn't quite open yet. Now, Farrah Abraham is set to run for city council — but can she? Plus, since voters shot down Austin City Council's request for more taxes, the city has shifted its focus to saving money. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Amy Stansbury of The Austin Common for the latest on Austin City Hall, including what the city's austerity plan actually looks like, and a new proposal to provide more affordable housing for middle-class Austinites.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 29th episode: The SAFE Alliance Window Nation Zach Theater Visit Brenham Texas

This episode of The JB and Sandy Show is a whirlwind of adrenaline, nostalgia, and Texas-sized storytelling. With Austin iced in, the crew dives into the perfect timing of streaming events, reliving the heart-pounding live climb of Taipei 101 by Alex Honnold. “Were there ever any moments you thought he was about to fall?” The team marvels at his focus, the dizzying heights, and the viral videos captured by onlookers. “He was just standing at the very, very top… I would fall from the fear of having to stand there like that!”

After 37-year-old Alex Pretti was shot and killed by the U.S. Border Patrol during an anti-ICE protest in Minneapolis on Saturday, Austinites are feeling increasingly anxious about the possibility of heightened immigration activity here at home. On our inaugural Tuesday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producers Elissa Castles and Eva Ruth Moravec to discuss how Austinites are responding, why there were concerns about ICE in town, and the local leaders including even Texas Gov. Greg Abbott who are calling on D.C. to rebuild public trust with ICE officials. Plus, we grade the city's response to Austin's winter storm and take a moment to hear directly from our listeners. If you're interested in learning more about LOVB Austin, like one of our listeners mentioned, find their schedule here. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 27th episode: The SAFE Alliance Window Nation Zach Theater Visit Brenham Texas

Not wanting to miss any Awards Season fun, the City Cast Austin team is out with our very first “Best Of” episode — but you won't find these categories anywhere else. Tune in to hear host Nikki DaVaughn, producer Elissa Castles and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec debate on Austin's best places to find hotties, scream or cry in public after a breakup, and — this is a tough one — our best outdoor space. And, spoiler alert: We need your help with that last one. Weigh in once you finish listening!  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 22nd episode: Jeremiah Program Austin

Is your New Year's resolution to make new friends? Don't worry Austinites, City Cast Austin has got you covered. Host Nikki DaVaughn gets the lowdown on how to make friends as an adult with Erinn Knight, co-founder of Where Y'all At Though; and Elle Beecher, who founded The Board Walks. With the loneliness epidemic still popping up in the news, it is more important than ever to build connection and community. So don't miss their tips on avoiding “energetic B.O.,” and rebuilding the social skills the pandemic atrophied. This episode originally aired August 20, 2025. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 14th episode: NAMI Central Texas Visit Brenham Texas

Over the weekend, President Donald Trump arrested and captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, vowing to seize control of the country's rich oil industry. But the impacts of this international escapade can be felt right here at home in Austin. Host Nikki DaVaughn chats with Hearst columnist Chris Tomlinson to dig into the long-standing relationship between Texas and Venezuela, how these developments could strain small local oil producers, and why Austinites should be paying close attention.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 7th episode: Zach Theater The SAFE Alliance New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway Moontower Comedy Festival

Austin's new million-dollar logo caused a lot of controversy this year and despite petitions to “stop” it, it is officially up and running on the city's social media accounts and website. The wavy A, in colors inspired by our “greenbelts, lakes, skyline sunsets, and bluebonnets,” replaces a seal that was designed as part of a contest back in 1916, as well as hundreds of department-specific logos. But will Austinites ever be okay with the exorbitant cost? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Jessica King, Austin's chief communications director; and Yasmin Wagner, the city's web and creative services manager, to discuss.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE 

For decades, Austinites have been known to live on the healthier side of life — Whole Foods was founded here, our greenbelts go on forever, and people cycle year-round. But in recent years, the health movement has changed somewhat, and is now represented in large part on popular podcasts, in a growing number of parent-requested vaccination exemptions, and increasingly, by politicians. On today's episode, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Isabella Cueto, a reporter with STAT News who recently reported that Austin is the heart of the Make America Healthy Again movement; and Travis McCormick, the founder of Make Texas Healthy Again, to dig into what being healthy in Austin means today, and how the MAHA movement is taking hold.   Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this December 18th episode: DUER - Get 15% off at shopduer.com/ccaustin Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST The SAFE Alliance

It's been a big year for Austinites with lots of highs and lows, from the very public back-and-forth over Cheer Up Charlies to the city's new $1.1 million logo and so much in between. In today's episode, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producer Elissa Castles and newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw to recap what they saw as hits and misses when it comes to Austin events, civics, and more.  Get more from City Cast Austin when you become a City Cast Austin Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Plus, if you join now, you could win a pair of tickets to the Paramount Theater for the Dec. 21 Rebecca Havemeyer and Stanley Roy show or for Bob Schneider's Great Big Spectacular New Years Eve Party! Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this December 10th episode: DUER - Get 15% off at shopduer.com/ccaustin Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST

The Austin Independent School District is urging Waymo to pause its autonomous vehicle operations during school pick-up and drop-off hours after footage showed the cars illegally passing school buses 19 times since the beginning of the school year. This comes after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a probe into Waymo's vehicles after similar incidents occurred elsewhere. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Hey Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshow and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to discuss the safety concerns these vehicles pose on our roads and what might happen next. Plus, the team digs into why Austin's bar sales are dropping and discusses Hope Gallery's new outdoor space.  Get more from City Cast Austin when you become a City Cast Austin Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this December 5th episode: New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway

The holidays in Austin are full-throttle and upon us, and it's time you made your plans. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by contributor Eric Webb and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to help Austinites fill out their calendars. We're talking about must-sees and must-dos this December in Austin, like movie screenings, shows, neighborhood lights, and volunteer opportunities; December goings-on that might be skippable (do you really need a new selfie from  the tunnel at Trail of Lights or that sugary boozy bev that's gonna make your head throb?); and things that we're looking forward to trying this year, like the Holiday Sing-Along and Stroll, treats from all of Austin's bakeries, and Chabad's South Austin Hanukkah party.    For even more tips on how to make the most of December in Austin, check out Hey Austin's take on what to do this month.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this December 1st episode: New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway Jeremiah Program Austin

After Elon Musk won the ear of President Donald Trump and made it his job to slash the federal government's budget, so-called Tesla Takedown groups sprouted up nationwide. Some grew less active after Musk was summoned back to his day job, but Austin's group is different. Here, a group of folks takes their job watchdogging Musk's business activities — and using very Austin-y tactics to protest them — very seriously, even if their demonstrations might make you laugh. And for good reason: Several of Musk's businesses have footprints in Central Texas, his technology is tested on Austinites, he's been active in state and local politics, and the county might owe his company millions of dollars.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 25th episode: DUER - Get 15% off at shopduer.com/ccaustin Cozy Earth - Use code COZYAUSTIN for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.

Texas' new congressional map is back in the news after a three-judge federal panel blocked it from being used in the 2026 midterm elections. Gov. Greg Abbott has already appealed the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Eleanor Klibanoff, law and politics reporter for The Texas Tribune to break down the ruling, what it means for candidates now staring down the fast-approaching December 8th filing deadline and what comes next. Plus, amid the scramble, Austin Congressman Lloyd Doggett has signaled he might not retire after all.   Get up to speed on how we got here with City Cast Austin's previous coverage from Democrats' quorum break this summer, the conservative case for redistricting, how the new map would redraw Travis County's districts, and what the new local districts would mean for Austinites.     Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 20th episode: DUER - Get 15% off at shopduer.com/ccaustin Simply Eloped

The six-week long federal government shutdown is over, but it is still affecting the 270,000 people in Central Texas who are a part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the 74,000 federal workers in the area. Without their typical amount of food assistance or even a paycheck, folks in the Austin region have turned to organizations for help. To find out more about how Austinites have been impacted, and how locals are filling in the gaps, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Tawana Barksdale, an organizer with the ATX Free Fridge Project; and Beth Corbett, vice president of governmental affairs and advocacy for the Central Texas Food Bank.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 17th episode: DUER - Get 15% off at Simply Eloped

It's finally time to get your cozy clothes out and start shopping for the holidays — but these days, money might be a little tight. You're in luck, though, since Austin has dozens of secondhand stores, estate sales, vintage popups, clothing swaps, and other opportunities to buy things used. On today's episode, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by expert thrifter Paula Cox and City Cast Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw, who loves a secondhand store, to share their favorite shops and tips to scoring some excellent preowned clothing, furniture, and more. And, it's not too late to help Paula's all-time favorite store and Austin icon, Treasure City, get into their new digs.  This episode originally aired on July 22, 2025.  And don't forget — become a City Cast Austin Neighbor today to win a free pass to the Texas Tribune Festival, taking place downtown Nov. 13 - 15. Join at membership.citycast.fm.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 13th episode: DUER - Get 15% off at shopduer.com/ccaustin Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST

Last Tuesday, Austin voters overwhelmingly rejected Proposition Q, the hotly debated proposal to raise property taxes to fund city services and projects. Now that the dust has settled, what do the results reveal about public trust in city government and local spending priorities? Host Nikki DaVaughn checks back in with two previous guests, Robin Rather, who opposed the tax rate increase, and Austin City Councilmember José “Chito” Vela, who supported it, to unpack the campaign messaging, the outcome and what comes next for Austin.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 10th episode: DUER - Get 15% off at shopduer.com/ccaustin Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST

Central Texas Food Bank told CBS that they are spending almost their monthly budget every week to keep up with the demands for food due to the government shutdown. Could Gov. Abbott do more to support Texans in crisis? On this week's Friday News Round Up, host Nikki DaVaughn chats with Hey Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw and producer Elissa Castles to unpack the growing food insecurity facing Austinites as SNAP benefits arrive late. Plus, we break down why AISD is pumping the brakes on some of its proposed changes to shore up their $19.7 million budget deficit, and what's next in the ongoing Cheer Up Charlie's saga.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 7th episode: DUER - Get 15% off at shopduer.com/ccaustin

As the holiday shopping season kicks into gear, chances are you'll find yourself heading out to The Domain. But let's be real, that place tends to spark some strong opinions among Austinites. We either love it or we really really don't. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Hey Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to unpack all things Domain: the good, the bad, and the downright cringe. From shopping and dining to people-watching and parking woes, we're diving into what this mixed-use mecca says about our city.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 6th episode: DUER

The results are in, and Austinites voted against Proposition Q, which would have raised property taxes by more than 20% and added $110 million to the city's budget. So what will happen now? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and Hey Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw to break down last night's election results and explore what lies ahead for City Council and the city programs now facing uncertainty. Plus, the team gets into which Texas constitutional amendments passed.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 5th episode: DUER

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As the federal government shutdown stretches past four weeks, its impact is hitting home in Austin. Starting tomorrow, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will be paused, leaving many families uncertain about how they'll put food on the table, and food banks racing to fill the gap. On today's Friday News Round Up host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producer Elissa Castles and senior account executive Dan Weinstock to discuss what this means for our community and how Austinites are stepping up to help. Plus, the team digs into reports of whooping cough spreading at an Austin middle school, why Elon Musk's company is removing safety crews from its Robotaxis, and of course our weekend plans. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 31st episode: Austin Food and Wines Festival

Austinites can now take improv classes from the Upright Citizens Brigade, further solidifying our fair city's spot as one of the country's funniest cities (at least if you ask us). While we once had only a handful of choices for venues to make us laugh out loud, Austin is now home to dozens of comedy clubs, including Joe Rogan's Comedy Mothership. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by local comedian Izzy Burger, who hosts Ladies Night at the Velveeta Room; and Dave Buckman of ColdTowne Theater to dig into what makes Austinites so funny, where to get started if you think you're funny, and what the New York Times got wrong about The Creek and The Cave's move down here during the pandemic.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 27th episode: Austin Food and Wines Festival

The fight over Austinites' vote in the city's tax rate election is going full-force, with early voting already underway and thousands of dollars raised and spent by the two sides. In case you hadn't heard, Austin City Council voted to ask you to pay more in property taxes in order to fund its $6.3 billion budget. The 5 cent increase per $100 valuation is set to bring in around $110 million. Yesterday, we dug into the case for the measure, known as Proposition Q. Today, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Robin Rather of the Zilker Neighborhood Association to discuss the case against Prop Q.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 23rd episode: Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off

The fight over Austinites' vote in the city's tax rate election is going full-force, with early voting already underway and thousands of dollars raised and spent by the two sides. In case you hadn't heard, Austin City Council voted to ask you to pay more in property taxes in order to fund its $6.3 billion budget. The 5 cent increase per $100 valuation is set to bring in around $110 million. To dig into the case for the measure, known as Proposition Q, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Austin City Councilmember José “Chito” Vela. And, make sure you tune in tomorrow for the case against Prop Q.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don't forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 22nd episode: Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off