City Cast Madison

Thoroughly checking yourself for ticks is a must-do after spending time outdoors in the spring and summer. Tick season has already been bad this year, and the number of Lyme disease cases in Wisconsin has quadrupled over the past 20 years. Host Bianca Martin chats with executive producer Hayley Sperling about the problem with ticks. We also get into the latest around the Watertown High School band’s banned song, and how Madison is supporting the band with a concert at the Barrymore Theatre this Thursday. Plus, Bianca was named the recipient of Urban Triage’s Reclaiming Our Voice Award! Mentioned on the show: Tips to avoid tick and mosquito bites [🎧 City Cast Madison] Wisconsin Tick Bite Tracker [WI Department of Health Services] What is the Wisconsin Academy? [🎧 City Cast Madison] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

We think one of Madison’s best qualities is its ability to transform with the weather, and we argue that in the summer, Madison becomes a beach town. To make the case, host Bianca Martin is joined by executive producer Hayley Sperling and producer Jade Iseri-Ramos. From Madison’s 12 beaches to all the places you can rent a boat, we think Madison has beach town vibes. 🌊 What do you think? Is Madison really a beach town? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

This week, the Madison Metro School District school board approved a 12-week paid parental leave policy for all district staff. Meanwhile, the interim independent police monitor found that Madison police officers violated department policy when arresting Madison School Board member Maia Pearson in December. Plus, Dane County will donate 165 acres of land to the Ho-Chunk Nation. Host Bianca Martin and producer Jade Iseri-Ramos break down these stories, and in the Neighbors-only segment we talk about American Players Theatre’s latest national recognition! 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 22nd episode: Telsaan Tea Clean Lakes Alliance Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

City Cast Twin Cities host Sean McPherson hosts this showdown where 12 City Cast reps, including City Cast Madison host Bianca Martin, compete head-to-head and debate which city is the best for a weekend trip this summer. From hot tub boats (exactly what they sound like) to epic outdoor summer festivals, our hosts are bringing the best of what their city has to offer this season. Can Bianca beat out her competitors from Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Nashville, Philly, Pittsburgh, Portland, Salt Lake, Seattle, and the Twin Cities? 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram! 📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 21st episode: Telsaan Tea Clean Lakes Alliance

The Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters connects Wisconsinites at the intersection of science, art, and culture. And their biggest event of the year is happening TOMORROW, May 21. They’re bringing the 23rd U.S. Poet Laureate, Joy Harjo, to speak at the Overture Center and our very own Bianca Martin will be moderating. Ahead of the big event, Bianca speaks with Tiffany Rodriguez-Lee, the Academy’s director of arts and fellows, who explains the Academy’s statewide mission, its “Finding Home” series, and why centering Indigenous perspectives is essential to understanding Wisconsin.  🎟️ Learn more about Joy Harjo: Inhabiting Home on Earth and get tickets here. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 20th episode: Telsaan Tea Clean Lakes Alliance

Data centers have become a hot-button issue across the state. Newly released public documents show that Alliant Energy has received proposals for at least 12 centers in its service area. Host Bianca Martin chats with executive producer Hayley Sperling and contributor Emily Winter about the secrecy surrounding data centers and why a majority of Wisconsinites disapprove of them. Plus, Vegan Sausage Fest is returning to Madison, and the Madison Public Market has announced a grand opening date! 🎵 P.S. Listener Wendy wrote in with a kind note about our Smart Studios episode. Her dad’s band Unchained Mynds’ hit song can be heard on Youtube. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.Learn more about the sponsors of this May 19th episode: Telsaan Tea Clean Lakes Alliance

Did you know that Nirvana recorded demos for their breakthrough album “Nevermind” here in Madison? It’s true. They recorded with Butch Vig (of Garbage fame) in an unassuming red brick building  on East Washington Avenue. In the documentary film “The Smart Studios Story,” local filmmaker and former Smart Studio engineer Wendy Schneider shows just how influential the recording studio was on ‘90s alternative rock. Host Bianca Martin chats with Wendy about the film and the studio’s legacy.  This episode originally aired on July 7, 2025. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 18th episode: Telsaan Tea Clean Lakes Alliance

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

State lawmakers put together a bi-partisan spending package this week that would have sent much needed funding to Wisconsin schools as well as provided tax payers with $300 to $600 stimulus checks. But the “blockbuster” deal died in the senate. So what happened? Host Bianca Martin dives into the story with executive producer Hayley Sperling and producer Jade Iseri-Ramos. Plus, the team talks Madison home prices and the possibility of a nuclear fusion research facility taking over the Oscar Mayer plant.  Plus for Neighbors, we discuss an accident at a local construction site.  Mentioned on the show: Why is Madison So Obsessed with Brandi Grayson [🎧 City Cast Madison]Explaining Wisconsin’s nuclear energy incentive bills  [🎧 City Cast Madison] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 15th episode: Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

Memorial Day is right around the corner, which means it’s grilling season! Whether you’re heading to a cookout or barbecuing at home, we all want to level up our grill skills. Host Bianca Martin chats with Meat People Butcher co-owner Pip Freeman about how to select quality meats and tips for cooking a perfect brat.    🥕 Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The National Alliance on Mental Illness takes this month as a chance to stand in community, recognize that no one struggles alone, and destigmatize mental illness and mental healthcare. To learn more about NAMI and the help that is available in Madison, host Bianca Martin spoke with NAMI Dane County executive director Jamie Mulry. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Soon Madisonians won't have to drive for an hour to get some Swedish meatballs. That’s right, Ikea is coming to town! The opening date and details are still being worked out, but the excitement is growing. Host Bianca Martin and executive producer Hayley Sperling share thoughts and well wishes to this year’s grads. Plus, the two are joined by Cap Times reporters Erin Gretzinger and Will Briggs to talk about their newsroom’s unionization efforts.  👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Brandi Grayson isn’t one to shy away from conflict. She gained notoriety as a leader of Madison’s Black Lives Matter movement and is now the CEO of the ⁠nonprofit Urban Triage⁠, where she helps some of Madison’s most vulnerable populations find housing. But Brandi and her work have been subjected to a level of ⁠extreme criticism and scrutiny ⁠that most other nonprofits in town never have to deal with. Today, host Bianca Martin talks to Brandi about the backlash she’s faced, her 2025 arrest, what’s new at Urban Triage, and what it means to be a Black leader in Madison. ♻️ If you enjoyed today's interview with Amy Barrilleaux, communications director at Clean Wisconsin,⁠ learn more here⁠. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at ⁠608-318-3367⁠ or email ⁠[email protected]⁠. We’re also on ⁠Instagram⁠!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the ⁠City Cast Madison morning newsletter⁠.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. ⁠Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for ⁠podcast and newsletter ads⁠.

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

On Wednesday, the long-awaited Center for Black Excellence and Culture opened to the public. The 37,000-square-foot building on West Badger Road is designed to be a multipurpose space that will host live events, youth and elder programming, health programming, and more. Host Bianca Martin was there, and she tells executive producer Hayley Sperling and newsletter editor Rob Thomas all about it. Plus, we react to the news of brewery owner Kirk Bangstad joining the governor’s race, and the latest in addressing safety on Park Street. And exclusively for our Neighbors, we give our takes on a proposed downtown curfew for youth. Mentioned on the show: FBI interviews Kirk Bangstad [WPR]Hundreds of drivers cited on Park Street [CapTimes] Sneak Peak in the Center for Black Excellence and Culture [CapTimes] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 8th episode: Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

Supper clubs and Wisconsin go together like fried walleye and beer. It’s a classic pairing, and for good reason. Whether you’re new to Madison, or just want to be reminded of the best spots to get French onion soup and a brandy old fashioned, we’ve got you covered. Host Bianca Martin chats with former Madison Magazine editor-in-chief Andrea Behling about the magazine’s definitive list on what makes a true Wisconsin supper club. This episode originally aired on March 13th, 2025 🥕 Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Have you ever wondered about all those sporty folks who gather to throw frisbees on fields across Madison? They are probably ultimate players, and they likely play for MUFA. The Madison Ultimate Frisbee Association boasts thousands of members who play all year round. City Cast Madison executive producer Hayley Sperling chats with MUFA executive director Pete Schramm about what is arguably Madison’s cultiest sport.  Want to try your hand at ultimate frisbee? MUFA summer registration is currently open. This episode was originally published on Aug. 19, 2025. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.  If you enjoyed this interview with Sarah Valencia, CEO of Journey Mental Health Center, learn more here.

Did you know that nearly a million birds flew over Madison last night? Warblers, orioles, thrushes, and so many more bird species are migrating through our region right now, and many stop in Madison to refuel and rest. Plus, our cranes and waterfowl are coming back home for the season. This means now is a great time to get out and look and listen for the birds! To celebrate peak migratory bird season, host Bianca Martin chats with the Wisco Birder himself, Dexter Paterson. Plus, get tickets to see Bianca talk with former U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo about what it means to inhabit our home on Earth.  This episode originally aired on April 23, 2025.  👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Now we’re not gatekeeping the title of “Madisonian,” but we want to know — what makes a Madison resident a Madisonian? If you’ve lived here your whole life like our special guest, you’ve got the street cred, but for the transplants, we’re asking when do you know that it’s real? Host Bianca Martin chats about iconic Madison experiences with executive producer Hayley Sperling and WORT host and MMSD school board member Ali Muldrow. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Today, the May Day 2026: Day Without Immigrants demonstration is expected to draw thousands to the Capitol, including many Madison area teachers and students. Host Bianca Martin talks with executive producer Hayley Sperling and newsletter editor Rob Thomas about the planned protest. Plus, a big update on the Ridglan Farms beagles and possible layoffs at UW Extension. And exclusive for City Cast Madison Neighbors, the team is breaking down the new paid parking rules for Madison’s near east side. Mentioned on the show: Our interview with Centro Hispano executive director Karen Menéndez Coller [🎧City Cast Madison]  Help DCHS rehome Ridglan Farm beagles [Dane County Humane Society] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 1st episode: Journey Mental Health Center Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

May in Madison means tulips, UW commencement, rooftop bars, and getting outside to enjoy it all! The City Cast Madison team is here with how to take advantage of the UW-Madison campus when many students leave for the summer, plus our top picks for things to do and eat!  👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.Learn more about the sponsors of this April 30th episode: Journey Mental Health Center

Last year, federal lawmakers closed the so-called loophole created by the 2018 Farm Bill that has allowed Wisconsin’s hemp-derived THC market to boom. Wisconsin state lawmakers failed to pass a bill to regulate these products, leaving them susceptible to the federal ban that will take place in November. To understand what’s at stake, City Cast Madison executive producer Hayley Sperling speaks with Phillip Scott, president and founder of the Wisconsin Hemp Farmers and Manufacturers Association, and owner of Crone Apothecary. This show originally aired on January 6, 2026.  👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 29th episode: Journey Mental Health Center

There’s a new tattoo parlor opening in the former Short Stack Eatery location. And if that sentence wasn’t weird enough, get this: it’s a global franchise. It will be Cleopatra Ink’s first shop in Madison, but some people are wary of the business after allegations of shady business practices and human trafficking surfaced online. Executive producer Hayley Sperling digs into this story with local comedian and contributor Emily Winter and producer Jade Iseri-Ramos. The trio also talk about the best lakes for dogs (and humans) and Emily’s upcoming adult show and tell event.  Mentioned on the show: 🏆 Our roundup of some of Madison’s best tattoo shops 🌊 Podcast: Toxic Lakes Hurt More Than Just Madison Swimmers 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 28th episode: Journey Mental Health Center Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

Did you know Wisconsin is home to the world's largest collection of circus artifacts? Well it is! Circus World in Baraboo is a 64-acre Wisconsin Historical Society site and it just reopened for its 2026 season! On today’s show, host Bianca Martin talks with Circus World attractions director Scott O’Donnell about the history and magic of the circus.  Plus, O’Donnell details what folks can expect at the circus this year. Hurry hurry hurry!  🎪Want to support OUR circus? (By circus, I mean this podcast and newsletter.) Sign up to become a City Cast Madison Neighbor! Our membership campaign ended last week, BUT there is still time to help us reach our goal and get the limited edition Oxford Pennant. Become a Neighbor today! 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 27th episode: Journey Mental Health Center

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

Tuesday, Madison’s City Council heard hours of public comment and debate before ultimately punting a proposal to tighten regulations for the Office of the Independent Police Monitor to the Police Civilian Oversight Board for further review. Also on Tuesday, interim independent police monitor Aeiramique Glass released a 31-page memo in which she said city leadership and local media have spread false statements about her office. Host Bianca Martin chats with newsletter editor Rob Thomas and producer Jade Iseri-Ramos about this story. Plus, we recap the escalating conflict over animal testing at Ridglan Farms, delays for the Madison Public Market, and, for Neighbors only, the proposed overhaul of San Damiano Park in Monona. 👂Want to hear what we had to say in the Neighbors-only segment? Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! If you join tuh-day, we’ll also send you a special gift!  👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 24th episode: Madison Opera The Madison Writers' Studio Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

Here in Madison, we’re blessed with dozens of great coffee shops. Whether you’re looking for a quick jolt of caffeine or a spot to hang out and work, there’s a coffee shop waiting for you. Host Bianca Martin chats with newsletter editor Rob Thomas and producer Jade Iseri-Ramos about their favorite spots for a caffeine fix.  ☕ Have you ever wanted to buy us a coffee? Well for the price of a coffee (or two) a month, you can support the work we do here at City Cast Madison. Join this week to get all the sweet perks AND a special wool pennant! 🥕 Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 23rd episode: Madison Opera The Madison Writers' Studio

Last month, WalletHub released a study that ranked Madison the 12th happiest city in the US. Is Madison actually that happy? We asked YOU to chime in, and let’s just say the reactions were mixed! Y’all love the parks and lakes, but are less excited about the property taxes. Host Bianca Martin reacts to your messages with Mike Tarby, founding member of the local advocacy group Strong Towns Madison.  🩵 And hey, we are in the final days of our spring membership campaign and need your help to reach our goal! Become a City Cast Madison Neighbor today. Neighbors who join this week get a special wool pendant to hang with pride! 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 22nd episode: Madison Opera The Madison Writers' Studio

What does it take to lead young people through anxious, high-stakes times? City Cast Madison host Bianca Martin talks with Miss Wisconsin Willow Newell and Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County CEO Michael Johnson about what youth support looks like on the ground.  They dig into rising anxiety and financial stress facing families, why leadership opportunities matter, and how representation has resonated with kids as Newell serves as the first Black Miss Wisconsin. Plus, they discuss the reality of the harassment experienced by Black leaders in Madison.  Mentioned on the show:  All White Party Michael Johnson’s Audacity to Lead 🏠Become a City Cast Madison Neighbor during our spring campaign to receive a special gift! You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 21st episode: Madison Opera The Madison Writers' Studio Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

Oh hey der. Did you know that comedian and Wisconsin legend Charlie Berens will be performing on May 7 and 8 at the Overture? He is known for his viral comedy videos poking fun at Wisconsin and Midwestern culture. On today’s show, host Bianca Martin talks with Berens about Midwest humor and the less funny topic of data centers.  Mentioned on the show Your City Could Be Better debate on data centers 🚩 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Plus, Join this week to snag our oxford wool pennant! Become a City Cast Madison Neighbor today!! 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 20th episode: Madison Opera The Madison Writers' Studio

Could public financing get more Madisonians involved in local elections? For the last decade, the City of Seattle has issued $100 in vouchers to every voter to donate to the candidate of their choice in municipal elections. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Seattle podcast host Jane C. Hu about how these Democracy Vouchers work, how many people are participating, and what the impact on local elections has been. Plus, is the “Seattle Freeze” a real thing? 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.

Madison was just hammered by extreme weather — flooding, high winds, hail the size of baseballs, and possibly (maybe) even a tornado?! Host Bianca Martin, producer Jade Iseri-Ramos, and newsletter editor Rob Thomas chat about where the city was impacted and how they weathered the storm. Plus, a big shakeup in the UW Athletics department has some concerned about what comes next for the university's struggling football program, and neighbors push back on proposed changes at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. And an exciting new bonus segment just for Neighbors: A conversation about a UW workplace rivalry that turned poisonous … literally. Mentioned on the show Stay safe in extreme weather conditions [🎧City Cast Madison] 🏠 Get access to the ad-free members-only free (and so, so much more) by becoming a City Cast Madison Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm/madison. We're in our first membership drive of the year, so if you sign up today, we'll send you a super cute wool Oxford pennant to show off your love for this city. Get yours today at membership.citycast.fm/madison. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 17th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra Madison Opera Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

Madison has no shortage of cocktail bars and dives to satisfy your need to imbibe. But there’s something extra special about those neighborhood bars that foster a deep sense of community and connection with the people they serve. Today, host Bianca Martin talks to bartender and the (unofficial) Queen of Willy Street Colleen Hayes about the bars that keep us coming back time and time again. 🥕 Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. ✨ PLUS, will you be our Neighbor? In case you missed it, we JUST kicked off our spring membership campaign! Join by April 24 to get an exclusive wool felt pennant and access to perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra Madison Opera

Longevity in the media industry is hard to come by. Longevity for a local alternative weekly is an even tougher task. But Isthmus has managed to survive and thrive for 50 years. Of course, it wasn’t without a few bumps along the way. To mark this momentous accomplishment, host Bianca Martin chats with editor Judy Davidoff and publisher Jason Joyce about Isthmus’ past, present, and future. 🎉 You can celebrate with Isthmus this weekend at the Atwood Music Hall! ✨ PLUS, today marks the start of our spring membership drive and we’ve got an exclusive felt pennant as a thank you to all who sign up by April 24. Members also enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 15th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra Madison Opera

How safe are Madison’s streets? After several high profile crashes this year, including one that resulted in the death of a 17-year-old high school student, there’s been a renewed effort to make our city’s streets safe for all who use them. The UW-Madison Traffic Operations and Safety Laboratory is using data to learn more about and make Wisconsin’s streets safer. Today, host Bianca Martin talks to Traffic Safety Engineer Research program manager Andrea Bill about the lab’s work and what the data tells us about Madison’s roads. 🔎 Do some digging! You can check out the TOPS Lab interactive map here. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 14th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra Madison Opera Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE.

Did you know we wouldn’t have Earth Day if it wasn’t for the efforts of a Wisconsin senator? And that’s not all. The UW-Madison has been home to some of the most prolific environmentalists of the last two centuries, and the work of Wisconsin’s Tribal Nations has kept the state an environmental leader. To celebrate Earth Month and learn more about Wisconsin’s conservationist history, we’re bringing back host Bianca Martin’s interview with Curt Meine, a senior fellow with the Aldo Leopold Foundation. This episode originally aired on April 22, 2025. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 13th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra Madison Opera

Madisonians, what do you do when your night life starts to dwindle? Nightlife is a huge economic driver for cities, but city offices are often closed when those businesses need help. That’s why Portland is considering hiring a Night Mayor. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Portland podcast host Claudia Meza about what this new position would do, and if it is the answer to the pandemic’s enduring negative impact on walkability, small businesses, and nightlife in cities everywhere. Plus, should your city be weirder? Mentioned on the show: "Can a Night Mayor Revive Downtown Portland?" (City Cast Portland) 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.

This week, the Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents voted to fire its president, Jay Rothman. The regents say this has been a long time coming, Rothman says he was shocked by the move. So what’s going on? City Cast Madison host Bianca Martin digs into this story. Plus, producer Jade Iseri-Ramos has the latest on when we can expect the city’s new homeless shelter to open and newsletter editor Rob Thomas has some good news for those who love German food and drinking beer out of a glass boot. (Which is all of us.) And — for City Cast Madison Neighbors only — the team talks about why DoorDash spent millions of dollars lobbying our state legislature and what they would do if they had that much influence in the Capitol.  🍺 And we want to hear from you! We’re working on a show about the neighborhood bars that hold Madison together. What’s your favorite? Do you have a particularly fond (or foul) memory to share? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul UW-Madison Science Expedition Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE

From Ba Lao to Friends Applaud, there are so many new restaurants in the Madison area to check out this spring. In her recent Cap Times cover story, food and culture editor Lindsay Christians laid out what food and drink spots have newly opened and which are yet to come. Executive producer Hayley Sperling chats with Lindsay about what new restaurants you should check out, including which ones have patio seating. Subscribe to the Cap Times Food & Culture newsletter to get more local food news. 🥕 Join us every Thursday as we explore Madison's food culture, from the brewers and bakers to the chefs and cheesemakers. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram! 📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter. 🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 9th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul UW-Madison Science Expedition Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras

Last night’s election results are in! More than 50% of registered voters in Dane County turned out to the polls, and it was a good night for most area incumbents. Host Bianca Martin and executive producer Hayley Sperling are here to break down the winners and losers of Tuesday’s 2026 spring election.  👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 8th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul UW-Madison Science Expedition Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras

Happy Election Day, Madison! We’re wrapping up our election primers today with a breakdown of the contested Madison City Council races. Plus, we have the need-to-know information for Madison rec sports this spring and summer. Host Bianca Martin chats with executive producer Hayley Sperling and local comedian and writer Emily Winter about all of this, plus the legacy that the indie news website Tone Madison leaves behind. P.S. Which neighborhood bars do you think make Madison, well, Madison? We’re working on an upcoming episode and we want to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. Mentioned on the show: Election guide [City Cast Madison] Madison School & Community Recreation sports signups Madison Area Ultimate Frisbee (MUFA) Madison Sports and Social Club 💸 Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 7th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul UW-Madison Science Expedition Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE

Back in the 1990s, it was normal, if not expected, that big-name bands would stop in Madison. From Metallica to Bon Jovi to Reba McEntire and beyond, the Veterans Memorial Coliseum at the Alliant Energy Center hosted them all. These days, big acts often pass over Madison in favor of Milwaukee, Chicago, and the Twin Cities. But the county is betting that updating the Coliseum could change that. Today, host Bianca Martin talks to Alliant Energy Center executive director Kevin Scheibler about this grand plan and what it means to bring a massive $100 million private investment to a public entity.  Listen to our past show on this topic with Nick Pjevach, chair of the Madison Arts Commission. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 6th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul UW-Madison Science Expedition Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras

If you are a fan of the Madison's professional women's volleyball team LOVB, you already know how incredible women's sports are! While more and more people are embracing women’s sports, Denver is only the second city in the U.S. to build a stadium specifically for women’s soccer. Will betting on women’s sports drive Denver’s economy or will Denverites be left paying the price for another stadium? City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Denver podcast host Bree Davies about why Denver has invested so much into having sports downtown, how Denver has capitalized on repurposing old industrial spaces, and how bad traffic gets when all your sports are downtown. Plus, is it better to have a Mayor with or without aims for a greater political office? Mentioned on the show: The $tadium Game: Inside the lucrative world of Colorado’s pro sports stadiums [⁠The Denver Pos⁠t] Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? ⁠Email David now! ⁠ We’re also on Instagram: ⁠@yourcitycouldbebetter⁠ Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? ⁠Check out our options⁠.

After nearly 30 years, the City of Madison is revising its pedestrian plan to make Madison safer and more walkable. Plus, UW’s largest student organization, Wisconsin Hoofers, is getting a $2.7 million expansion. And the race for Branch 1 of the Dane County Circuit Court is in its final days. Host Bianca Martin chats with executive producer Hayley Sperling and newsletter editor Rob Thomas about all this news. Plus, did you get got on April Fool’s Day? Mentioned on the show: In person absentee voting hours (City of Madison) April election guide (City Cast Madison) Interview with Judge Lazar (🎧City Cast Madison) Interview with Judge Taylor (🎧City Cast Madison) 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 3rd episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul UW-Madison Science Expedition Sauced Night Market Oak Bank - Do you have questions for Oak Bank? Submit them HERE

Happy April, Madison! It’s a new month, which means the City Cast Madison team is here to share our tips on how to make the most of it. The days are finally feeling longer, it’s getting greener out there, and it’s finally time for the Dane County Farmers’ Market on the Capitol Square! Grab your headphones and tote bags, because this month is packed with goodness.  If you enjoyed today's interview with Amy Barrilleaux, Communications Director at Clean Wisconsin, learn more here. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 2nd episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul UW-Madison Science Expedition Sauced Night Market

Wisconsin’s spring election is less than a week away — and that’s no April Fools joke! On April 7, voters across the state will cast their votes for candidates in local city councils, county boards, school boards, and the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Today, we’re once again zooming in on the supreme court race. Host Bianca Martin speaks with Judge Chris Taylor, the Madison local and liberal-leaning candidate, about why she wants a seat on our state’s highest court and the role of partisanship in this nonpartisan election. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 1st episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul UW-Madison Science Expedition Sauced Night Market

We’re exactly one week away from Wisconsin’s spring election. On April 7, voters across the state will vote on an array of candidates, running for offices ranging from local city councils and county boards to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Today, we’re zooming in on the race for Wisconsin Supreme Court justice. Host Bianca Martin speaks with Judge Maria Lazar, the conservative-backed candidate, about why she wants a seat on our state’s highest court and the role of partisanship in this nonpartisan election. 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 31st episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul Dane County Humane Society UW-Madison Science Expedition Sauced Night Market

Here at City Cast Madison, we’ve lost count of how many times we’ve had to pause our podcast recordings to let a F-35 fighter jet fly by. The jets are loud, there’s no question about that. But just how loud? One retired Madisonian has made it his mission to document and collect data on just how much noise these warplanes make. Today, host Bianca Martin chats with Scott about his findings and how much louder Madison has gotten since the jets arrived in 2023.  ✈️ Check out Scott’s website here.  👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 30th episode: Society of St. Vincent de Paul Dane County Humane Society UW-Madison Science Expedition Sauced Night Market

More affordable housing is needed in places like Madison. Some cities, however, are doing better than others at meeting this need. Austin, Texas, for example, is building more affordable housing than any other American city right now — 50% more, by some measures, than the second most successful city. However, this fast-growing city is also seeing a shortage in housing that middle- and lower-income residents can afford. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Austin podcast host Nikki DaVaughn about this paradox, the city’s affordable housing successes, and where Austin’s still falling short. Plus, how far is too far to walk to a neighbor’s house? 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.

Airports across the country are struggling as TSA agents go without pay. While things remain stable at the Dane County Regional Airport, officials are bracing for a potential airport shutdown. Meanwhile, gas prices in Madison creep toward $4 per gallon. Executive producer Hayley Sperling breaks down this news with newsletter editor Rob Thomas and producer Jade Iseri-Ramos. Plus, what’s on your spring election ballot, and why is UW-Madison’s Space Place shutting down? Mentioned on the show: How to beat high gas prices in Madison [City Cast Madison]Kwik Trip unveils a new mascot [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel] But what happened to Urge? [Facebook] 👋 Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email [email protected]. We’re also on Instagram!  📧 You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the City Cast Madison morning newsletter.  🏠 Get more from City Cast Madison when you become a City Cast Madison Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events, and more. Join the City Cast Madison Neighbors program! Looking to advertise on City Cast Madison? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 27th episode: Dane County Humane Society