City Cast Pittsburgh

City Controller Rachael Heisler has been sounding the alarm on Pittsburgh's budget for actual years, and her latest report shows the city overspent by almost $45 million in 2025. How did we get here, and what can we do to get on better financial footing? Heisler joins host Megan Harris to explain why Act 47 isn’t in the cards and what it'll take to get our revenue on track. Notes and references from today’s show: Annual Comprehensive Financial Report [City of Pittsburgh] PODCAST: Is Pittsburgh Going Broke? [City Cast Pittsburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, May 14th episode: AIDS Free Pittsburgh Fulton Commons City Winery Pittsburgh PGH Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Let's be honest, the Pirates aren't always the main draw at PNC Park. Many of us go for the views, the pierogi race, and inventive ballpark food. So what's worth trying this season? Axios Pittsburgh's Ryan Deto and Alexis Johnson sampled the stadium's new offerings. They join host Megan Harris to share their picks for the best (and worst) new fare, from chipped ham fries and a foot-long corn dog to smoked turkey legs and Nutella beignets. Plus, don't miss John Oliver’s take on Pgh newscasters’ (poor) attempts to pronounce “boricua.” Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, May 12th episode: AIDS Free Pittsburgh Fulton Commons City Winery Pittsburgh PGH Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Power & Fitness Festival Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Our primary election is just around the corner on May 19, so it feels like a good time to take stock of how well our voting process actually works. There are lots of ideas for improving elections here in Pennsylvania, from opening our primaries to making Election Day a holiday. Host Megan Harris joins State Rep. Chris Rabb and Armin Samii, a volunteer with March on Harrisburg, to discuss some proposals — and learn what ranked choice voting has in common with Baskin-Robbins. Check out RCVis, Armin's ranked choice voting data visualization tool, and read up on the history of closed primaries in PA. **This episode originally published on October 20, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, May 11th episode: AIDS Free Pittsburgh Fulton Commons City Winery Pittsburgh PGH Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

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

Gov. Josh Shapiro is suing Character.AI, saying its chatbots are posing as doctors and offering medical advice. Executive producer Mallory Falk, producer Sophia Lo, and contributor Colin Williams dig into the jaw-dropping details from the lawsuit. Plus, we talk about a new teen curfew at Market Square, staffing cuts at the Post-Gazette, an exciting summer music festival lineup, and the city's plan to add chairs and loungers at its public pools. And in our members-only segment, we talk about the drama around PNC's return-to-office mandate. Want to unlock the bonus segment? Become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm. Don't miss it! Host Megan Harris is moderating a debate about Pittsburgh's brand on Wednesday, May 27 from 5-7pm at the Pittsburgh Foundation. Reserve your ticket for the free event here.  Notes and references from today’s show: Pittsburgh's pools get chairs, loungers for the first time ever [WTAE] 2026 Citiparks Lifeguard Survey [Citiparks Aquatics] New policy restricts when unaccompanied teens can enter Pittsburgh’s Market Square [WESA] Walnut Capital to take over The Terminal in the Strip District [P-G] Pennsylvania sues Character.AI over claims chatbot posed as doctor [NPR] Shapiro wants Pennsylvania to regulate AI chatbots. How would that work? [WESA] Newspaper Guild members allege anti-union discrimination in Post-Gazette offer letters [City Paper] More than 40 news sources remain in Pittsburgh’s fragmented media landscape [Public Source] As Spirit Airlines shuts down, businesses inside Arnold Palmer Regional Airport feel impact [KDKA] 15 Pittsburgh Music Festivals for Good Tunes and Community [City Cast Pittsburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, May 8th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh PGH Power & Fitness Fest Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

So many new restaurants are popping up in Pittsburgh this spring, each fulfilling a specific craving. Longing for gumbo and jambalaya cooked by a true New Orleans chef? Check out Roux Orleans. Want to try Austrian and Hungarian food all in one sitting? Make a reservation at Titusz. Curious to try dishes that blend New Mexican flavor with Buffalo comfort food? Grab a table at the Eastman. Local journalist and City Cast contributor Aakanksha Agarwal joins executive producer Mallory Falk to talk about the new spots she's most excited about — and pour one out for the dearly-departed Hemingway's, an Oakland staple beloved by generations of Pitt students. Read Aakanksha's roundup of new restaurants in NEXTpittsburgh. Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, May 7th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburghers have a lot of pride in our city, including our weird quirks and unwritten rules. Like why do neighbors keep putting old folding chairs in front of their houses? And why do drivers immediately turn left instead of yielding at a green light? The City Cast Pittsburgh team is running through all the essential rules for surviving and thriving here in the city.  **This episode originally aired on March 12, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, May 6th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Whether you're celebrating Mother's Day this Sunday or just want a weekend treat, there are so many great brunch options in Pittsburgh. Producer Sophia Lo and newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco are sharing some of our favorite brunch spots and items, including refreshing matchas, stuffed pancakes, and a croque monsieur with a Mediterranean twist.  Want the shortlist? Here are the four brunch spots we just don't want to live without. If you enjoyed today's interview with Luis Fabregas, Executive Editor at Trib Total Media, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, May 5th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust PGH Power & Fitness Fest Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh just proved we're able to throw a great party for the NFL Draft. Could the Super Bowl be next? Host Megan Harris talks with Sean Gentille, senior writer for the Athletic, about why the Steelers (and Pirates!) want taxpayer money for stadium upgrades; the prerequisites for hosting a Super Bowl; and the likelihood of that even happening if our stadium doesn't have a roof. Notes and references from today’s show: Pittsburgh talks upgrades of Acrisure, PNC in era of billion-dollar stadiums [Public Source] Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, May 4th episode: Bike PGH Union Project PGH Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh survived the NFL Draft! Executive producer Mallory Falk, interim social media manager Laura Tsutsui, and contributor Colin Williams are rounding up a few takeaways from the event, both good and bad. Colin's sharing what traffic enforcement could look like without the police, and after seeing Punxsutawney Phil throw the first pitch at PNC Park, we think his prognostication skills could be put to work year-round. In our Neighbors-only segment, we're bringing on former local journalist Jakob Lazzaro, and he's explaining why the public bathroom in the South Side's been abandoned after once being hailed as "the toilet of the future."  Notes and references from today’s show: Tell Us What You Love About Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh sets NFL Draft attendance record [Steelers] Small businesses in Pittsburgh report seeing far fewer customers than expected during NFL Draft [WPXI] NFL Draft food recovery effort exceeds 30,000 pounds [TribLive] Transit Talk: Separating traffic enforcement from police could curb Pittsburgh’s bad driving [City Paper] Pennsylvania Turnpike plans to text drivers about unpaid tolls, raising scam concerns [CBS Philadelphia] Environmental groups decry plans to burn more coal for data centers [City Paper] Allegheny County gets "F" for air quality [Axios Pittsburgh] The ghost toilet on Pittsburgh’s South Side offers lessons for Downtown's new public bathrooms [WESA] What was your impression of the NFL Draft? Should we host it regularly? Call or text us our DRAFT HOTLINE at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, May 1st episode: City Theatre Pittsburgh Opera PGH Cultural Trust Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh really comes to life in the spring, so don't miss out on exploring the city this month. We're looking forward to the 59th Carnegie International, food trucks at the park, neighborhood music festivals, and so much more. Plus, farmers market season is kicking off, and if you need help navigating the space, check out our etiquette guide to Pittsburgh farmers markets. For even more tips on how to make the most of May in Pittsburgh, check out our website. City Cast Pittsburgh's guide to May is made possible by our awesome sponsors, City Theatre, Pittsburgh Opera, PGH Cultural Trust, and Window Nation. And City Cast Pittsburgh is also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Reach us at [email protected].

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

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

May 4 is the deadline to register to vote in Pennsylvania's 2026 primary election. Register to vote, check your status, and find your polling place on Allegheny County's website so you're all set for the primaries on May 19. We're kicking off our election coverage with the biggest race at the state level: the governor's seat. Incumbent Democrat Josh Shapiro's facing off against Republican challenger Stacy Garrity, who currently serves as the state treasurer. Host Megan Harris is with Spotlight PA Capitol reporter Stephen Caruso, who's giving us each candidate's highlight reel and telling us whether Shapiro can make good on his promise to GSD if he wins reelection — and if the state Senate flips in favor of Democrats. Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, April 28th episode: City Theatre Pittsburgh Opera PGH Cultural Trust Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Local leaders hustled to fix sidewalks, fill storefronts, and revamp public spaces ahead of the NFL Draft. But what's in store for the Golden Triangle now that the party's over? How much will Pittsburghers continue to benefit from the big push to make everything pretty before company came to town? Host Megan met up with Jeremy Waldrup, president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, to talk about what's next for the neighborhood — including a roller skating rink in Market Square! — and why he'd like to regularly host the draft rather than court a Super Bowl.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, April 27th episode: City Theatre Pittsburgh Opera PGH Cultural Trust Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

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

The NFL Draft is finally here! Host Megan Harris, producer Sophia Lo and contributor Colin Williams share what we're looking forward to (a Pop-Tart sacrifice!), questioning (a crackdown on bootleg sports merch), and still waiting to see (a fully-open-to-the-public Arts Landing). Plus, we talk about a court ruling that strikes down a state ban on Medicaid-funded abortions, a hunger strike at PA's largest ICE detention center, and a new, costlier city budget. In our members-only segment, we discuss whether Heinz is trying too hard, in light of the news that it's offering a lifetime supply of ketchup to the 57th draft pick. Notes and references from today’s show: Pittsburgh International Airport is 'absolutely ready' to be the city's front door during the NFL Draft [P-G] Authorities seize counterfeit NFL merchandise in Strip District [TribLive] Pittsburgh has quietly started replacing colorful Wayfinder Signs with black and gold [P-G] Pennsylvania judges say blocking Medicaid for abortion violates state constitution [Spotlight PA] Commissioners respond to claims of hunger strike at Clearfield County immigration detention center [WTAJ] Council approves Pittsburgh city budget changes, including cuts to food justice program [WESA] As Trump proposes further cuts to science spending, this Pittsburgh researcher is moving to China [WESA] Popular convenience store chain plans to spend nearly $1 billion on 100 stores [PennLive] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, April 24th episode: Pittsburgh Opera Allegheny County Poll Workers Brew House Arts PGH Cultural Trust Serial Killer Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It's the season to celebrate great books and music! In honor of Record Store Day, Independent Bookstore Day, and National Library Week, the City Cast Pittsburgh team is sharing our favorite spots to find your next read or listen — from one of the best record stores in the entire country (according to Rolling Stone) to two new romance book shops. Plus, we discuss all the things you can get from our local libraries besides books, including cake pans, power tools, and adventure kits. Notes and references from today’s show: 6 Free Things You Can Get With Your Library Card in Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] Find Your Next Read at Pittsburgh's Best Independent Bookstores [City Cast Pittsburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, April 23rd episode: Pittsburgh Opera Allegheny County Poll Workers Brew House Arts PGH Cultural Trust Serial Killer Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The latest season of 'The Pitt' is a wrap! And we're still doing our best Nurse Dana, "Baby Jane Doe" impressions. City Cast's Megan Harris and Mallory Falk are with Josh Axelrod, a local film critic and comms director at the Lindsay Theater and Cultural Center. We're talking about our favorite moments of the season, how the writers room rep’ed Pittsburgh, and what we think just barely missed the mark. Plus, our City Cast colleagues from across the country are sharing their impressions of the city based solely on watching the show. Haven't caught up with the finale yet? Listen to our review of the first half of Season 2 here. Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, April 22nd episode: Pittsburgh Opera Allegheny County Poll Workers Brewhouse Arts PGH Cultural Trust Serial Killer Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Tomorrow is Earth Day, and we think the best way to celebrate is by visiting one of the city's 176 gorgeous parks. Plus, with so many parks in every corner of the city, there's sure to be one where you can escape into nature instead of sitting in traffic during Draft week! Producer Sophia Lo is with Matthew Hileman, the director of operations and visitor engagement at the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, to talk about the best parks for gorgeous views, a romantic date night, birdwatching, and more. **This episode originally aired April 17, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, April 21st episode: Pittsburgh Opera Allegheny County Poll Workers Brew House Arts PGH Cultural Trust Serial Killer Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Spring in Pittsburgh means one thing: it’s officially food fest season. From Vegan Restaurant Week and a mac-and-cheese marathon in the Strip to Greek festival favorites (yes, baklava sundaes included), host Megan Harris and producer Sophia Lo are sharing the can’t-miss spring food and drink events worth planning your weekends around right now. Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, April 20th episode: Pittsburgh Opera Allegheny County Poll Workers Brewhouse Arts PGH Cultural Trust Serial Killer Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Could public financing get more Pittsburghers 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.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is not shutting down after all! The Baltimore Banner's parent nonprofit just bought the paper from Block Communications Inc. Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor Colin Williams share the details. Plus, we celebrate Colin's return to the newly-revived City Paper, which started back up this week, and give an update on when to expect the alt-weekly's first print issue. (It's been a big few days for Pittsburgh media!) We also take a mail bag question about whether Mayor Corey O'Connor can do anything about our high utility bills, explain why Airbnb hosts aren't exactly making bank on the NFL Draft, and share some big wins for the Eat 'n Park smiley cookie and the old PIT terminal. Plus, in a members-only bonus segment, we share where you can find public bathrooms Downtown during the draft and all year round. Update! In our conversation we said a local McMansion was listed for $63k during the NFL Draft — but it's actually listed for an even more eye-popping $68k! We need your help! We're making a list of 1,000 things we love about living in Pittsburgh. Fill out this form to let us know your favorite things about the city.  It could be anything from your go-to breakfast order to your favorite feral animals (real example) — or maybe it’s the way the lights twinkle on the Sister Bridges. Notes and references from today’s show: “More things you should know before coming to Pittsburgh for the Draft: how to properly use a pothole.” [Instagram] Pittsburgh Post-Gazette to continue publishing after sale to nonprofit media group [Post-Gazette] The Baltimore Banner’s parent nonprofit acquires the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette [NiemanLab] PODCAST: Mayor O'Connor on Life After the Draft, Taxing Nonprofits & Public Bathrooms [City Cast Pittsburgh] PODCAST: Pittsburgh's Best Bagels [City Cast Pittsburgh] Allegheny County Council puts term limit questions on ballot this fall [WESA] Allegheny County Council proposes bill banning law enforcement — including ICE — from wearing masks [Post-Gazette] Pittsburgh Airbnb hosts seeing low demand for NFL Draft [Post-Gazette] Lights, camera, takeoff: Former Pittsburgh airport terminal rebranded as film set [TribLive] A cookie beat out central Pa. coffee as the coolest thing made in the state [PennLive] Downtown Public Restroom Directory [Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership] Learn more about the sponsors of this Friday, April 17th episode: Sustainable Pittsburgh Allegheny County Poll Workers Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers Taskrabbit AIDS Free Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Mayor Corey O'Connor just reached his 100th day in office, and he's sitting down with host Megan Harris to talk about his main accomplishments so far, opportunities during the NFL Draft, and what's in store for Pittsburgh after the big party. Plus, we're bringing the mayor YOUR questions, like whether voluntary donations from some of the Big Five nonprofits are just bandaids, how the city can support our unhoused communities, what it would take to get public bathrooms Downtown and in the Strip District, and even his favorite iced tea. Learn more about the sponsors of this Thursday, April 16th episode: Allegheny County Poll Workers Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers Taskrabbit AIDS Free Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Company is coming, and a lot of out-of-town drivers don't know how to zipper merge. But let's be honest, some of yinz don't either! Driving down steep hills and navigating tight streets can be a challenge, and people have been complaining about our city's layout for decades. In the 1930s, renowned journalist Erine Pyle wrote, "Pittsburgh is the cockeyedest city in the United States. Physically it is absolutely irrational. It must have been laid out by a mountain goat.” Before tens of thousands of visitors descend on our city, we're revisiting our conversation with friend of the pod and former Uber driver Jakob Lazzaro. Together, we're talking about why the streets are like this, share some very important rules for navigating our narrow, hilly streets, and – of course – debate the efficacy of the Pittsburgh Left.  **This episode originally aired September 4, 2024. Notes and references from today’s show: Topography and annexation shaped mismatched Pittsburgh streets [WESA] Drivers, you're not alone. Pittsburgh really does have frustrating and short on-ramps [WESA] Choose a color and buckle up: Allegheny County's belt system is low tech, but navigable [WESA] Rainbow Connections [City Paper] U.T.B.A.P.H. [99% Invisible] Learn more about the sponsors of this Wednesday, April 15th episode: Allegheny County Poll Workers Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers Taskrabbit AIDS Free Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It's one of our most contentious debates: Can you get a good bagel in Pittsburgh? The City Cast Pittsburgh team is entering the fray and taste testing offerings from some of the most recommended brick-and-mortar spots: Pigeon Bagels, Balena Bagels, Three Brothers Bagels, Phat Bagel, and Burgh's Bagels. We share which bagels have the best texture, are the most flavorful, and meet producer Sophia Lo's strict criteria for "all around" seasoning. Plus, we spread the word about our absolute favorite cream cheese. Your turn! Do you agree with our picks? What are your favorite bagel spots? Call or text us our Bagel Hotline to share your hot takes: 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this Tuesday, April 14th episode: Sustainable Pittsburgh Allegheny County Poll Workers Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers Taskrabbit AIDS Free Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The NFL Draft is taking over Pittsburgh, and even if you're not a football fan, there's still probably something up your alley. We've got concerts, brunches, happy hours, block parties, and so many more activities, and there's even plenty to do beyond Downtown and the North Shore. To help you navigate it all, content creator Brenasia Ward-Caldwell created the Pittsburgh Draft Week Guide. Brenasia tells host Megan Harris which events she's looking forward to the most, what's free to enter, and what she hopes visitors will take away from the big weekend. If you enjoyed today's interview with  Chelsea Kovak Senior Manager at Taskrabbit, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this Monday, April 13th episode: Allegheny County Poll Workers Window Nation Pittsburgh Steelers Taskrabbit AIDS Free Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburghers, 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.

The Michelin Guide is coming to Pittsburgh! The timing is kind of hilarious, since we just did an episode about why our city doesn't have — or need – Michelin star restaurants. Host Megan Harris and City Cast contributors Colin Williams and Hal B. Klein chat about this development, laugh about our clairvoyant conversation, and share which restaurants they think might (or might not) get a star. Plus, executive producer Mallory Falk joins to discuss a Washington Post editorial chiding Pittsburgh Public Schools for going remote during the NFL Draft. The team also gets into concerns about how our unhoused community might get treated during the draft, PA's first underground state park, and more bad news for Pittsburgh's brewery scene. Then, in a members-only fourth segment, we unpack a juicy profile of the Block brothers and share the latest gossip about the future of the Post-Gazette. Come celebrate Pittsburgh with us on 412 Day! We'll be at Southern Tier Brewing on the North Shore on Sunday, April 12 from 11am-2pm. Find all the details about the free event and RSVP here. We'll be cheering on everything we love about our city. Notes and references from today’s show: VisitPITTSBURGH Unveils “PicksBURGH” Downtown Celebrations Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft Presented by Bud Light [VisitPITTSBURGH] Schools are closing for the NFL draft. What does this teach students? [The Washington Post] Pittsburgh Public Schools to lease parking lots for NFL Draft as students move remote [WTAE] Advocates ask for Pittsburgh’s homeless to be treated humanely during 2026 NFL Draft [TribLive] PODCAST: Why Pittsburgh Doesn't Have (or Need) Michelin Star Restaurants [City Cast Pittsburgh] The Michelin Guide is Coming to Pittsburgh. How Does it Work? [City Cast Pittsburgh] PODCAST: ICE at PIT, Weird Heinz Products & Kennywood's (Almost) Open [City Cast Pittsburgh] “Go help save some lives”: Give blood with the Red Cross [American Red Cross] Penn Brewery closes Pittsburgh International location amid financial struggles [Post-Gazette] Inner Groove Brewing says its closing one of its taprooms in Pittsburgh [WTAE] With 2 more Pittsburgh-area locations set to close, Primanti Bros. looks to recalibrate [Post-Gazette] ‘I Will Destroy You’: The Battle Inside a Midwestern Media Dynasty [WSJ] The Nation’s Longest Ongoing Strike Is Over—but the Battle Isn’t [Columbia Journalism Review] Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust City Theatre Clearview FCU Sustainable Pittsburgh Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

While we have a growing number of delicious pizza joints in and around the city, our pizza scene just doesn't compare to New York — at least not yet. City Cast contributor and Post-Gazette dining critic Hal B. Klein is telling host Megan Harris how new technology and our collaborative culture makes Pittsburgh a "rising pizza powerhouse." Plus, Hal's sharing his favorite pizza places in Western Pennsylvania, including one inside a Greensburg Shop 'n Save. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 9th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust City Theatre Clearview FCU Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pennsylvania is one of the few states with a split legislature, which makes it extra hard for a bill to become law. The Democratic-controlled House recently passed a whole slew of bills, including ones to gradually raise the minimum wage from $7.25 to $15, require data centers to give more information to the state, and codify same-sex marriage. But do any of these proposals stand a chance in the Republican-controlled state Senate? Host Megan Harris and City Cast Philly’s Trenae Nuri are turning to Ian Karbal, government reporter for the Pennsylvania Capital-Star, to get the details about what the relationship between PA's House and Senate look like and where these ideas might land. Notes and references from today’s show: Pa. House passes bill to raise minimum wage to $15 by 2029 [Pennsylvania Capital-Star] A nonprofit linked to a combative PR firm is opposing a minimum wage hike in PA [Pennsylvania Capital-Star] Lawmakers advance bill to give state additional oversight of new data center water use [Pennsylvania Capital-Star] Learn more about the sponsors of this April 8th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust City Theatre Clearview FCU Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Rivers of Steel finally figured out who the Carrie Blast Furnace was named after! Roman Hladio, chief reporter at NEXTpittsburgh, joins host Megan Harris to spill the tea about Carrie Clarke's life, and explain the "polite sexism" behind naming local blast furnaces after women. Plus, they discuss why we just had a record-breaking year for film and TV spending in Pittsburgh, and how space exploration could lead to medical breakthroughs here on Earth, all thanks to a new research lab at the University of Pittsburgh. Notes and references from today’s show: Movie and TV projects spent a record-breaking $300 million while filming in Pittsburgh last year [NEXTpittsburgh] What can space exploration teach us about human health? New Pitt research lab to find the answer [NEXTpittsburgh] Who is Carrie of the Carrie Blast Furnace? Rivers of Steel finally has an answer [NEXTpittsburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this April 7th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust City Theatre Clearview FCU Window Nation Sustainable Pittsburgh Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Kennywood's almost open, and we're not talking about your fly! The amusement park's first day of the season is April 18. To celebrate, we're revisiting a conversation between host Megan Harris and historian Mark Houser about Kennywood's long and storied history. How did a picnic grove turn into the attraction we know and love today, and how do its stewards tow the line between preservation and modernization? Special thanks Pittsburgh Magazine for sharing their work and our guest Mark Houser for bringing Pittsburgh’s past back to life. Sign up for one of his June skyscraper tours, and listen to Mark and Megan's self-guided audio tour of Downtown. And check out the Kennywood episode of Defunctland here. It’s super fun and weird. Come celebrate Pittsburgh with us on 412 Day! We'll be at Southern Tier Brewing on the North Shore on Sunday, April 12 from 11am-2pm. Find all the details about the free event and RSVP here. **This episode originally published April 19, 2023. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 6th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust City Theatre Clearview FCU Window Nation Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Both Denver and Pittsburgh wanted, but didn't get, a WNBA team. 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.

City Council's getting in on the NFL Draft action. They've approved security agreements with 18 law enforcement agencies — and that includes bringing in lots of bomb-sniffing dogs. Council is also thinking about increasing the hourly rates for street parking while we have an influx of visitors. Contributor Colin Williams is here with a very hot parking take while host Megan Harris and producer Sophia Lo are excited about snagging free trees. Plus, they're talking about space exploration missions with a Pittsburgh connection and saying goodbye to Fat Head's.  Notes and references from today’s show: Trees being removed from Pittsburgh's North Shore to make room for NFL Draft setup [KDKA] Pittsburgh City Council looks to finalize NFL Draft security plans [Post-Gazette] Pittsburgh prepares for NFL Draft with extra police agencies, canines [TribLive] Pittsburgh leaders propose raising city parking meter rates during upcoming NFL draft [KDKA] Tow Pound [McGann and Chester] University of Pittsburgh pledges $5 million to city for parks, business districts, public safety [WESA] Spring 2026 Tree Adoption Events [Tree Pittsburgh] Astronaut’s Condition That Led to Space Station Evacuation Remains a Mystery [New York Times] Immigrant rights group plans 8-day walk from Pittsburgh to ICE facility in Clearfield County [TribLive] PODCAST: How To Join Pittsburgh's ICE Rapid Response Network [City Cast Pittsburgh] NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has no plans to scrap Rooney Rule, despite Florida AG pressure [WESA] Fat Head’s Saloon on South Side closing after 34 years [TribLive] Learn more about the sponsors of this April 3rd episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Quantum Theatre Allegheny County Poll Workers Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

We've got so many fantastic restaurants in the city, and our local chefs are regularly recognized by the James Beard Foundation. But the Michelin Guide hasn't made it to Pittsburgh, and City Cast Pittsburgh contributor and Post-Gazette dining critic Hal B. Klein thinks it should stay that way. Hal's telling host Megan Harris why Pittsburgh's dining scene doesn't fit neatly within the Michelin Guide's parameters and the accolades like StarChefs Rising Stars Awards we can point to instead. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 2nd episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Quantum Theatre Allegheny County Poll Workers Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

From outdoor dance parties and Easter egg hunts to spring fungi walks and cinnamon roll crawls, there are so many ways to get out in Pittsburgh this April. Plus, the weather's finally nice enough for a walking tour Downtown. The City Cast team is sharing our top recommendations, plus inviting you to party with us on 412 Day! And if you're excited to try some spring produce, don't miss our guide to local CSAs. For even more tips on how to make the most of April in Pittsburgh, check out our website. City Cast Pittsburgh's guide to April is made possible by our awesome sponsors, Lake Erie Wine Country, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Quantum Theatre, and Allegheny County Poll Workers. And City Cast Pittsburgh is also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Reach us at [email protected].

Episode Description: On this bonus sponsored episode by the Grable Foundation, we explore how learning is evolving in Pittsburgh and what it could look like in the years ahead. When you picture local schools 10 years from now, do you see students glued to tablets and receiving lessons from AI tutors, or do you imagine them building solar-powered backpacks in outdoor classrooms? A new report is imagining what learning could look like here by 2036 and whether we should be excited…or a little freaked out. Jason Swanson, Director of Strategic Foresight at KnowledgeWorks, and Taylor Samstang, Executive Director at Remake Learning, join Executive Producer Mallory Falk to break down the biggest trends shaping the future of education, how you can help shape what comes next, and and why all of this matters even if you don't have kids. Thank you for listening to this special bonus Sponsored Episode by The Grable Foundation. To learn about this episode sponsor visit Remakelearning.org, Grable.org, and knowledgeworks.org

It's Trans Day of Visibility! We're sharing some events and ways to mark the day in Pittsburgh, plus looking at where trans youth are going for gender-affirming care now that UPMC ended these services for patients under 19.  We're also discussing the latest population numbers, a new platform to rate local landlords, the newest PA "bird town," and a new outdoor music festival. Thanks to Hanna Webster, health reporter for the Post-Gazette, for discussing her reporting on gender-affirming care. Don't forget to tell us what you love about Pittsburgh to be entered into our $1,000 giveaway! And we're also inviting you 412 Day, a totally real holiday to celebrate what makes Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh.  Notes and references from today’s show: Population Change in the Pittsburgh Region [University Center for Social and Urban Research] Pittsburgh area loses population amid nationwide immigration crackdown [Post-Gazette] PODCAST: Pittsburgh Isn’t Growing. Is That Actually Bad? [City Cast Pittsburgh] PODCAST: UPMC Didn't Challenge Trump, So These Pittsburgh Families Did [City Cast Pittsburgh] Trans teens in Pittsburgh scramble to access care months after options were largely cut off [Post-Gazette] ‘Knowledge is power:’ Rate Yinz Landlord offers students a voice on Oakland landlords [The Pitt News] Richland Township named Pennsylvania’s 100th Bird Town [TribLive] Live osprey camera back on at Moraine State Park [Butler Eagle] First baby eagle of 2026 hatches at U.S. Steel Irvin Plant nest [WTAE] Pittsburgh eagle cam captures chilling coyote howls: "Never heard anything like this" [KDKA] New Pittsburgh music festival launches this summer in Frick Park [WESA] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 31st episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Quantum Theatre Allegheny County Poll Workers Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Long TSA lines and the arrival of ICE agents at airports around the country — including PIT — have some people on the fence about flying. If you're rethinking air travel plans but still want to unwind, consider a staycation. Freelance journalist Aakanksha Agarwal and City Cast contributor Meg St-Esprit join host Megan Harris to make the case for booking a room in your own city, share some of their favorite staycation spots, and help you plan the perfect itinerary. Check out Aakanksha's roundup of historic staycation spots in City Paper. **This episode originally aired on November 10, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 30th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Quantum Theatre Allegheny County Poll Workers Carnegie Library Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

More affordable housing is needed in places like Pittsburgh. 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.

A mystery search warrant targeting the City of Pittsburgh has sparked big questions and almost zero answers. What could the district attorney's investigation actually be about? Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor Colin Williams break down the most likely scenarios, what's rumored, and why this kind of move is so unusual. ICE is officially at Pittsburgh International Airport, even though staffing here wasn’t a problem — so why are they really here? Pittsburgh City Council is following the county's lead in proposing a bill to limit cooperation with ICE. The NFL Draft is bringing nice things but also transit detour chaos. Plus, the Midwife Center hit a big milestone, an attorney is accused of embezzling $1.4 million from the Duquesne Incline, there may be hope for the Pens and Pirates, and No Kings protests are returning on Saturday. Don't forget to tell us what you love about Pittsburgh to be entered into our $1,000 giveaway! And we're also inviting you 412 Day, a totally real holiday to celebrate what makes Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh.  Notes and references from today’s show: DA Zappala serves search warrant on city of Pittsburgh [Post-Gazette] Bills regulating city cooperation with ICE headed for discussion in Pittsburgh City Council [WESA] Pittsburgh's NFL Draft transportation plan: PRT schedules, phased road closures & parking [WTAE] Pittsburgh area 8th grader has the last remaining perfect women’s NCAA bracket [TribLive] Pittsburgh lawyer accused of embezzling $1.4 million from Duquesne Incline group [Post-Gazette] Western Pa.’s only stand-alone birthing center celebrates 10,000th baby [WESA] "No Kings" protests set for Pittsburgh [Axios Pittsburgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 27th episode: Fulton Commons Carnegie Library 412 Day Taskrabbit Political Gabfest Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Warmer weather is on its way, which means it's the perfect time to break out your bike and start taking leisurely rides around Pittsburgh's trails or even commuting on two wheels. But if you aren't sure where to start or are intimidated by car traffic and our hilly streets, we're here to help. Executive producer Mallory Falk is chatting with Ted King-Smith, education manager at Bike Pittsburgh, about how cyclists can smoothly navigate the city. Plus, he's sharing what bikers and drivers need to know to safely share the road. **This episode originally aired on September 24, 2025. If you enjoyed today's interview with Chelsea Kovak, Senior Manager at Taskrabbit, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 26th episode: Fulton Commons Carnegie Library 412 Day Taskrabbit Political Gabfest Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Do you enjoy the challenge of figuring out how to cook a meal with an ungodly amount of banana peppers? Prefer your eggs farm fresh and your fruit extra juicy and flavorful? Like supporting local farmers? Then you should consider a subscription to a CSA (community supported agriculture) share! Whether you're looking for something hyper specific like a cheese, meat or syrup share, or want a grab bag of seasonal produce, there are so many options in the Pittsburgh region. Host Megan Harris, producer Sophia Lo, and social media manager Laura Tsutsui are rounding up some of their favorites and explaining how to choose the right farm share for your budget, schedule, and cooking habits — plus what to expect before you sign up. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode: Fulton Commons Carnegie Library 412 Day Taskrabbit Political Gabfest Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Trump administration is sending ICE agents to 14 airports across the country, including Pittsburgh International, to help with security during the partial government shutdown. But it's not yet clear exactly what they'll be doing — and not everyone is thrilled with their arrival. Host Megan Harris and Sophia Lo share what we know so far, and explain why the airport opened a food pantry for its own employees. Plus, they give a status update on our city's preparations for the NFL Draft, get excited for the start of Kennywood and Pirates seasons (including the new menu items at PNC Park), and question Heinz's latest products. (Protein mac and cheese?! Electrolytes-infused Capri Sun?!)  Notes and references from today’s show: ICE agents arrive at Pittsburgh International Airport as funding stalemate hampers TSA nationwide [Post-Gazette] ICE agents deployed at Pittsburgh International Airport [TribLive] Pittsburgh International Airport sees longer lines but avoids TSA chaos [Pittsburgh Business Times] Pittsburgh Public Schools to transition to remote learning during NFL Draft [WTAE] PRT gets $350,000 to expand bus and light rail service for NFL Draft weekend [Post-Gazette] 11 Investigates: Pennsylvania has a problem with license plates, and it could cost drivers [WPXI] New outdoor plaza to open near PNC Park [Axios Pittsburgh] Kraft Heinz plans to unveil healthier versions of classics [Pittsburgh Business Times] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 24th episode: Fulton Commons Carnegie Library 412 Day Taskrabbit Political Gabfest Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Carnegie Museums are some of the standout attractions in the city, but there are lots of museums and hidden gems in and around Pittsburgh that are free or donation-based. We're bringing back a conversation with Discover the Burgh's Jeremy Jones and Spotlight PA's Asha Prihar, who are sharing some of their favorite attractions (including where you can see a singing tumor in a jar!) and how to make the most of a free exhibit. **This episode originally aired on June 25, 2025. Notes and references from today’s show: Free museums abound in Pa. Find the one for you with this guide. [SpotlightPA] 27 Unusual Pittsburgh Museums You Must Check Out [Discover the Burgh] 10 of the Best Free Pittsburgh Experiences Not to Miss [Discover the Burgh] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 23rd episode: Fulton Commons Carnegie Library 412 Day Taskrabbit Political Gabfest Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The unionization efforts of sex workers in Nevada might have implications for gig workers in Pittsburgh. At Sheri's Ranch, a legal brothel 45 minutes outside Las Vegas, some of the workers are seeking both recognition as employees and union representation. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with former City Cast Las Vegas podcast host, current contributor, and longtime Nevada attorney Dayvid Figler about why sex workers are considered independent contractors, what sparked this legal battle, and what happens if they win. Plus, what's different about neighborhoods in Las Vegas? Mentioned on the show: Could a Pahrump Brothel Union Set a New National Standard for Labor Laws? (City Cast Las Vegas) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Pittsburgh will finish its controversial $6 million master plan thanks to a contribution from the Heinz Endowments. But the city's still in rough financial shape — and it doesn't help that some police officers are spending big on premium car washes. Host Megan Harris, producer Sophia Lo, and contributor Colin Williams share the latest on the budget and talk about distressing body cam footage that emerged after a local ICE arrest. Plus, they celebrate the return of Pittsburgh City Paper, mourn a Downtown grocery store that never even opened, and discuss both fish (a potential North Shore aquarium) and fowl (a bird tornado). Notes and references from today’s show: Pittsburgh comprehensive plan to receive Heinz Endowments funding [WESA] POD: Why Pittsburgh's $6 Million City Plan Might Stall Out [City Cast Pittsburgh] Creative Math with Ed Gainey [Breathing Space] Pittsburgh council, caught off guard by depths of budget woes, blames data dearth [TribLive] Pittsburgh police spent thousands on premium car washes as city faces large deficit [WPXI] Pittsburgh police bodycam shows they assisted ICE, mocked the situation, and were ready to detain the victim's wife [Instagram] Pittsburgh police chief orders review of alleged order for officers not to intervene in ICE arrest [Post-Gazette] POD: How To Join Pittsburgh's ICE Rapid Response Network [City Cast Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh Zoo Exploring North Shore Aquarium [Pittsburgh Zoo] Entrepreneurs behind Well Well Market cancel plans for downtown Pittsburgh grocer [Pittsburgh Business Times] Boards of Pittsburgh Public Theater, Pittsburgh CLO approve merger [TribLive] Pittsburgh, City Paper is BACK! [City Paper] Goodness, gracious, great balls of fire: Meteor lights up sky over Pittsburgh [Post-Gazette] POD: UPMC Didn't Challenge Trump, So These Pittsburgh Families Did [City Cast Pittsburgh] UPMC: Some patient records may have been 'improperly accessed' [WTAE] Raucous bird tornado touches down as snow geese make annual flight to Arctic [AP News] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 20th episode: P3R The Westmoreland Carnegie Library Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pennsylvania could be getting two new ICE detention centers. The federal government quietly purchased two warehouses in Berks and Schuylkill Counties as part of a national move to build more immigrant detention facilities. Some local leaders, including Gov. Josh Shapiro, are pushing back against these sites. But do they have any power to block the facilities, or have a say in how they operate? We're sharing an episode from our friends at City Cast Philly, where host Trenae Nuri asks Spotlight PA's Gabriela Martínez and Kate Huangpu about the status of these detention centers and whether local officials can stop them. Read Gabriela and Kate's reporting on the ICE facilities here. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 19th episode: P3R The Westmoreland Carnegie Library Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893.