City Cast Salt Lake

Why are Utahns having fewer kids? Host Ali Vallarta and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Kate Groetzinger unpack The New York Times’ deep dive into Utah’s falling fertility rate. Plus, another dangerous heat wave is headed our way, where to cool off around Salt Lake, and local shoutouts.  Resources and references: RSVP for 801 Day on Saturday, Aug. 1! Even in Utah, land of ‘Big Love,’ families are getting smaller [New York Times] How to survive this week’s heatwave [City Cast Salt Lake] It’s so hot, even the low temperatures are record highs in Utah [FOX 13] Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

The 9th and 9th Whale is a Salt Lake icon, but it wasn’t always popular. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means dive into the whale’s lore and talk about what’s next for the sculpture.  RSVP for 801 Day on Saturday, Aug. 1! Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

It’s not a given that every Salt Laker will chip in to help their community. In this episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with writer Taylor Lahey about how functional incentives could be the missing link in traditional systems of donations and volunteering. Inspired by a waste exchange program in Curitiba, Brazil, Lahey is working to create circular systems that effectively incentivize donations and just as effectively get them into the hands of those who need them. When investment and morale are low, sometimes an unconventional approach is the right way to go. Want to hear your question on an upcoming episode of Your City Could Be Better? Submit your city dilemmas for our upcoming call-in show by using our Google Form: https://forms.gle/45X33jhGHf8BYDM5A  Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Can Cafe Rio be restored to its former glory? Host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Molly Miloscia talk about the new menu item that's a love letter (or apology) to Utahns. Plus, Salt Lake homes cost more than ever, picks of the week, and in our members-only segment: copy/paste coffee shops and unique alternatives. Resources and references: RSVP for 801 Day on Saturday, Aug. 1! Salt Lake home costs just hit a new record. See how much they’re going for in your neighborhood. [Salt Lake Tribune] The tyranny of the algorithm: why every coffee shop looks the same [The Guardian] Gluten-free Pie & Beer Day event. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Are you ready for a long Pioneer Day weekend? Host Ali Vallarta, producer Ivana Martinez, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Andy Larsen talk about what's going on around town. Plus, how worried should we be about getting struck by lightning on a hike? And what neighborhoods are "unmistakably Utah"? Resources and references: After a Utah man was killed by lightning, should other hikers be worried? [Salt Lake Tribune] Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union

Is 900 South in Salt Lake City too cool to fail? We think so, which is why we're hosting our annual 801 Day party there on Saturday, Aug. 1 at the Milk Block! Host Ali Vallarta asks Maven co-founder Rocky Donati how the street has evolved and what makes it such a success. RSVP for 801 Day on Saturday, Aug. 1! This episode first aired Oct. 23, 2025. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union

Can Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall pull off a third term? Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and audience development manager Angie Treasure talk about who's already eyeing the 2027 mayoral race and what’s at stake ahead of the 2034 Winter Olympics. Plus, the hot chocolate trend is here and local shoutouts. Resources and references: Salt Lake City mayoral field emerges as Mendenhall weighs third term [Axios Salt Lake]  Knoops to open first US store as expansion gathers pace [City AM]  We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. You'll be doing us a big favor if you take it at citycast.fm/survey — it only takes seven minutes. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card and City Cast City swag. Thank you! Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

Utah's premier conservative think tank, the Sutherland Institute, has a new CEO: state Sen. Todd Weiler, a frequent guest of this podcast. Host Ali Vallarta asks Weiler about his goals, 1-star reviews of his organization, and why he won't be stepping down from the Legislature. We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. You'll be doing us a big favor if you take it at citycast.fm/survey — and it only takes seven minutes. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card and City Cast City swag. Thank you! Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Sometimes it can feel like the Salt Lake City government is two (or more) steps behind the needs of its neighborhoods. Enter the residents of Chattanooga, Tennessee. What Chattanoogans don’t have, they make up for in advocacy, whether by showing up to city council and organizing for change or just doing things themselves. City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with creator and city lover Hope Henchey about how she and her neighbors are sneakily and secretly fixing up their city. You’ve heard of the Nashville bench builders — now get ready for the Chattanooga pothole fillers, sidewalk layers, and (literal) trail blazers. Mentioned on the show: Atlas Obscura feature on the community-built benches in Chattanooga Efforts by Strong Chattanooga to make a path through the woods in a sidewalk-less neighborhood Review of Hoboken's streak of zero traffic fatalities  Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Should Utah adopt permanent daylight saving time? Host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Chandler Rosenberg weigh the pros and cons. Plus, our state's future in farm tourism, picks of the week, and in our members-only segment: where to see "The Odyssey" this weekend, and why Utah doesn’t have a 70mm theater. Resources and references: RSVP for 801 Day on Saturday, Aug. 1! How would permanent daylight saving time impact Utahns? [ABC 4]  Agritourism is growing in Utah but it hasn’t reached its full potential, new study says [Utah News Dispatch]  We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. You'll be doing us a big favor if you take it at citycast.fm/survey — it only takes seven minutes. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card and City Cast City swag. Thank you! Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union Salt Lake Sewciety

A new ranking gives Utah an F for quality of life. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Jack Stauss dig into it. Plus, what you need to know about Trump shrinking two Utah monuments, and the best places to eat wings while watching the World Cup. Resources and references: President Trump drastically shrinks 2 Utah national monuments — again [Salt Lake Tribune] Why is Utah on the 'Worst States to Live In' list? [FOX 13] We’re doing our annual survey to learn more about our listeners. You'll be doing us a big favor if you take it at citycast.fm/survey — it only takes seven minutes. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card and City Cast City swag. Thank you! Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union Salt Lake Sewciety Central 9th Market

The Sexuality Information and Education Council just gave Utah’s sex ed syllabus an F. Host Ali Vallarta asks Ocean Candler, a Colorado-based sexual health expert, what gold star sex education would look like in our city. Plus, tips for discussing sex at home or school, from porn to pleasure.  Here are some resources for parents and adults:  Sex Positive Families  Amaze  Planned Parenthood National Sex Education Standards  The Porn Conversation This episode first aired Jan. 21, 2025  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union Salt Lake Sewciety

A new federal policy may be putting Utah wildland firefighters' lives at risk. Host Ali Vallarta, producer Ivana Martinez, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Kate Groetzinger talk about the change and its impacts as wildfire season rages on. Plus, Salt Lake gets a rebrand and local shoutouts. Resources and references: Trump administration seeks to stomp out all fires quickly, reviving policy that has been discredited [Colorado Sun]  Sign up to volunteer at Liberty Park on Saturday, July 25. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union Salt Lake Sewciety Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

Salt Lake City's new council member, Jennifer Napier-Pearce, got her seat due to a coin toss. Host Ali Vallarta asks her about the challenges and opportunities facing her downtown district, plus the one thing she would ask from her former boss, Gov. Spencer Cox, to make the capital city better. Listen to our conversation with the SLCPD chief on the 999 Ride, drones, and ICE.  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union Salt Lake Sewciety

There’s lots to love about Salt Lake City, but being able to get in and out of it easily and cheaply can be an underrated metric of its livability. Accommodating, accessible, and affordable local airports are a specific resource that many cities need. To find out which cities are leading the charge and the kinds of amenities that elevate an airport to gold status, City Cast CEO David Plotz chats with Scott Keyes, founder and Chief Flight Expert of Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) about everything he’s seen in his work and travels. How does your airport stack up? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

It’s been nearly a week of hearings in the Charlie Kirk case. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Andy Larsen break down the biggest developments. Plus, what locals are buying at the liquor store (and what it says about us), and in our members-only segment: Are Utahns actually rude? Resources and references: Read Salt Lake Tribune reporter Jessica Schreifels' Charlie Kirk hearing coverage. RSVP for 801 Day on Saturday, Aug. 1! Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. If you enjoyed this interview with Eric Haymond, the SVP of Business Development for Taskrabbit, learn more here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  The Shop

Salt Lake temps are hitting triple digits this weekend. Host Ali Vallarta and newsletter editor Terina Ria discuss ways to stay cool and ideas for having fun in this heatwave.  Find a Salt Lake County cooling zone near you.   Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  The Shop

We know fox squirrels are taunting Salt Lake dogs, but are they taking over our city? Natural History Museum of Utah Citizen Science Manager Ellen Eiriksson tells host Ali Vallarta why these critters are worth studying. Submit your fox squirrel and firefly sightings. This episode first aired on Jan 30, 2023.  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  The Shop

Poplar Grove’s neighborhood peacocks are turning up dead. Host Ali Vallarta and producer Ivana Martinez talk about a distressing local situation. Plus, some feel good news bits and shoutouts. Resources and references: Salt Lake City police investigate deaths of peafowl, as residents push for charges [KSL] Find out about free mariachi classes in Ogden.  Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm.Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  The Shop Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off Questionable Productions

A weeklong court hearing in the killing of Charlie Kirk starts today in Provo. Host Ali Vallarta and Salt Lake Tribune politics reporter and astrologer Addy Baird talk about what to expect. Plus, an astrological reading for Salt Lake while Mercury is back in retrograde. Resources and references: Charlie Kirk’s widow, parents to attend first Utah court hearing since his killing [Salt Lake Tribune] Find Addy’s book, The Magical Game, at all local bookstores. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  The Shop

See if your Salt Lake knowledge serves you well! In the first-ever Your City Could Be Better trivia episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz goes head to head with journalist and historian Alexandra Petri to see who knows more about U.S. history, geography, and celebrities ahead of the country’s semiquincentennial. Sean McPherson, trivia wiz and City Cast Twin Cities host, leads four riveting rounds of questions covering everything from The Declaration of Independence to the hottest college rivalries, and all 13 City Cast cities make an appearance. See how you stack up! Mentioned on the show: Trivia Mafia website and locations Alexandra Petri's US History: Important American Documents (I Made Up) Milwaukee's block of Frank Lloyd Wright - Atlas Obscura Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Salt Lake City is changing the rule around who gets to live together. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Kate Groetzinger discuss the neighborhood chatter around the change. Plus, things to do over the long weekend and in our members-only segment: gamifying Katherine Heigl’s Utah home listing. Resources and references: SLC may tweak its definition of ‘family.’ Here’s why some residents are upset. [Salt Lake Tribune]   Check out continuing education classes at the University of Utah. Request to remove graffiti in your neighborhood.  Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Canyon View Credit Union

July has us fine-tuning our Salt Lake summer bucket list. Host Ali Vallarta, producer Ivana Martinez, and newsletter editor Terina Ria bring you a guide to making the most of this month, from gelato bikes to running with shelter dogs to patriotic symphonies. Plus, if you're donating blood this month, listen to our episode with ARUP. Sign up to volunteer for Pie and Beer Day. For even more tips on how to make the most of July in Salt Lake, check out our daily newsletter.  City Cast Salt Lake is made possible by our awesome sponsor, Rocky Mountain Power. We’re 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 Salt Lake. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Check out our options. Reach us at [email protected].

Wildfires are burning across Utah, from the Wasatch Front to the southern corners of the state. Host Ali Vallarta talks to state forester Jamie Barnes about reactions to the fireworks ban and the response to this dangerously unprecedented moment.  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

For the first time in eight years, Utah is almost certainly sending a Democrat to the U.S. Congress: former Congressman Ben McAdams. Host Ali Vallarta asks him about key issues impacting the state.   ICYMI: Listen to our primary election results breakdown. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Just how good are the sidewalks in Salt Lake City? The state of a city’s sidewalks can be a good indicator of how healthy that city is — and pedestrian safety is just the beginning. In Denver, voters approved a new fee a few years ago to fund much-needed sidewalk repairs, and after a lot of back-and-forth, those repairs are finally underway. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Denver podcast host Bree Davies about what drove this initiative, how it’s going, and who’s paying for it. And speaking of sidewalks, do bikes, scooters, and people playing music belong on public sidewalks? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Have you heard of  “alpine divorce?” A reopened murder case in Utah has host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Molly Miloscia connecting the dots to a disturbing trend happening in the great outdoors. Plus, the feds back off SLC’s ICE detention center, picks of the week, and in our members-only segment: summer travel hacks.  Resources and references: Alpine divorce: When a lovers' stroll goes off a cliff [Axios] Small Lake City Dating Stories 2026 [City Cast Salt Lake]  ICE backing off plans for Utah detention center months after buying SLC warehouse, report says [Salt Lake Tribune] Utah leaders respond to new ICE facility developments in Salt Lake [KSL] Check out Delta’s policy on their 20 minute bag guarantee.  Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

St. George, Utah is having a moment, earning national praise as a must-visit destination. But some Salt Lakers know it as the “Florida of Utah.” Host Ali Vallarta and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Shireen Ghorbani unpack the reputation of one of Utah’s fastest-growing cities. This episode first aired on Aug. 7, 2025  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. If you enjoyed this interview with Eric Haymond, the SVP of Business Development for Taskrabbit, learn more here.

Yesterday was the 2026 primary election in Utah, and we’ve got all the big results for you. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means offer some analysis on how your neighbors voted, and a sense of where we go from here. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Fire season in Salt Lake is off to a scary start. Host Ali Vallarta, producer Ivana Martinez, and audience development manager Angie Treasure talk about the blazes burning close to home and some precautions worth taking. Plus, Crumbl's new dirty soda and local shoutouts. Resources and references: Still haven't filled out your ballot? Use our Congressional District 1 voter guide, and turn in your ballot by 8 p.m. Tuesday. Stay up to date on wildfires with Utah Fire Info. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

Two different outlets published stories about The Other Side Academy, an organization that’s getting taxpayer money to work on homelessness and addiction in our community. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means talk with Salt Lake Tribune reporter Jose Davila IV about the big takeaways.  Resources and references: The Other Side Academy network keeps expanding, bolstered by Utah taxpayers and unpaid labor [Salt Lake Tribune] Intensity is the core of The Other Side Academy’s process. It’s not for everyone [Utah Investigative Journalism Project] Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

A pro-AI super PAC spent $450,000 on campaign ads for Ben McAdams. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Jack Stauss talk about how it could impact the primary election. Plus, Sandy City Council cut funding for the Wasatch mountains, picks of the week, and in our members-only segment: ideas for Father's Day this weekend.  Resources and references: Check out our City Cast Salt Lake voter guide.  The national AI policy showdown is being decided in Utah's backyard. [KSL] Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. If you enjoyed today's interview with Tess Rowser, the marketing manager of the Water Lantern Festival, learn more here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Salt Lake Sewciety Utah Arts Festival

Think you know all the best spots in Salt Lake? Host Ali Vallarta asks local explorer Darienne Debrule about the underrated experiences, shops, and restaurants to visit this summer. This episode first aired on May 14, 2025.  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Salt Lake Sewciety Utah Arts Festival

We're a week out from the primary election; will Gen Z vote? Ignite Utah executive director Jenessa Jimoh tells host Ali Vallarta what’s shaping young voters' political habits. This episode first aired on March 25, 2026.  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Salt Lake Sewciety Utah Arts Festival Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

The Salt Lake City Police Department wants $142 million this budget season. Host Ali Vallarta asks Police Chief Brian Redd how our money is being used, from the 999 ride to drones. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Salt Lake Sewciety Utah Arts Festival

As residents of Salt Lake County, you may have wondered about your parks for years — that is, until City Cast Salt Lake host Ali Vallarta cataloged them all. Over the course of two years, she visited all 511 parks in the county, seeking to record their amenities (e.g., bathrooms, playgrounds), write helpful summaries, and track down the people in charge. The resulting map is a valuable tool, as you now not only know who to call when trash cans are overflowing: you can also find outdoor spaces that meet your needs. But what else can we do with the map? Ali breaks it down for City Cast CEO David Plotz, on this episode of “Your City Could Be Better”.

Salt Lake City and County are joining forces to sue ICE. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Andy Larsen discuss the strategy. Plus, the best places to watch the World Cup, picks of the week, and in our members-only segment: Why does Utah rank 6th in the nation for income? Resources and references: Former adviser to Spencer Cox picked to replace Eva Lopez Chavez on SLC Council [Salt Lake Tribune] SLC, S.L. County sue to stop ICE detention center; feds say they want to be ‘good partners’ [Salt Lake Tribune] The best places to watch the World Cup [City Cast Salt Lake]  Check out the beavers on horseback [Utah DWR]  Utah among states where people have the highest income, study says [ABC 4]  Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Woodward PC Utah Arts Festival Rocky Mountain Power

School is out, the temperature's up — summer has hit Salt Lake. Host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor Austin Whitehead made you a guide to nearby getaways, where to simulate a European vacation, and some volunteer opportunities. Resources and references: Sign up to volunteer to help the Pando Tree.  Public Lands Calendar Volunteer for Pie and Beer Day and the Junior League Care Fair.  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Woodward PC Utah Arts Festival

Think you know how to keep your energy bill down this summer? Think again. In this bonus sponsored episode by Rocky Mountain Power, Executive producer Emily Means asks Bianca Velazquez, senior communications specialist at Rocky Mountain Power, to bust some of the most common energy myths out there. Plus, Emily and Bianca dig into Rocky Mountain Power's Wattsmart program, break down the case for smart thermostats (yes, renters too), and share the highest-impact changes you can make starting tomorrow. Head to RockyMountainPower.net to explore rebates and energy-saving tips — and give them a follow at @rockymountainpower on Instagram, Facebook, and X. Thank you for listening to this special bonus sponsored episode by Rocky Mountain Power. To learn about this episode sponsor visit RockyMountainPower.net.

For dog owners and swimmers, summer can be a trap: the algal bloom trap! Host Ali Vallarta asks Ben Holcomb from the Utah Division of Water Quality what's in the water this season, where it's dangerous, and how to stay safe. Check the map for algal bloom updates. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Woodward PC Utah Arts Festival

The cops are chasing down the 999 ride and getting a liquor license has never been easier. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means and our new audience development manager, Angie Treasure, break down the news of the week. Plus, shoutouts and a sponsored chat to get you up to date on the Utah Arts Festival. Resources and references: Relatively quiet DABS meeting bookends May [Gastronomic SLC] Following complaints, police step up presence at popular 999 Ride through Salt Lake City [FOX 13]  Check out Visit Salt Lake’s volunteer hub. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. If you enjoyed this interview with Aimee Dunsmore, executive director of the Utah Arts Festival, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off Woodward PC Utah Arts Festival Questionable Productions

Can Josh Romney save the Great Salt Lake? The son of former U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney says his new organization, Great Salt Lake Rising, is getting the whole state on board. Host Ali Vallarta asks Josh about raising $3.5 billion to actually move the needle on this source of panic for Salt Lakers. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Woodward Park City Utah Arts Festival

Salt Lake City recycles some of its water, but not as much as Las Vegas, where the water there stays in the city. How else could a desert city possibly have enough water for its year-round tourists, a metro area population of over 2 million, and all those pools? The process just might be grosser than you think. With innovative recycling, strict lawn rules, and infrastructure to monitor it all, Vegas has become a global leader in water reuse. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Las Vegas podcast host Jesse Merrick to learn how the city makes do with what it has and how its practices could save other cities’ water supplies. Plus, are any Las Vegans actually going to the casinos? Mentioned on the show: "Reality Check - There are Big Fines If You Don’t Change Your Watering Clock" (Southern Nevada Water Authority) "Federal Regulators Cut Lake Mead Water. Can Vegas Handle It?" (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.

Primary ballots are out, and four Democrats are gunning for Utah’s Congressional District 1 seat. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Cassie Bingham analyze the candidates’ responses to our voter guide. Plus, ideas to celebrate Pride Month, picks of the week, and in our members-only segment: Why do Salt Lakers simp hard for chain restaurants? Resources and references: Check out our City Cast Salt Lake voter guide. Not a registered Democrat? Request a Democratic primary ballot by June 16.  Utah governor declares June ‘Fidelity Month’ as red states find conservative alternatives to Pride Month [Deseret News] Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Arts Festival Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden

Hot temps have us looking toward the mountains for a cool escape this summer. Executive producer Emily Means talks with Urban Trails author Ashley Brown and local hiker Brandon Miller about ideas for your next hiking adventure. Plus, safety tips for when you run into wildlife on the trail. Check out Wild Aware Utah for more info before heading into the great outdoors.  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Arts Festival Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden

When news broke that hundreds of Salt Lake City Public Library were being incentivized to leave their jobs, questions quickly followed. Are layoffs coming? Is the library OK? Executive producer Emily Means talks with SLC Public Library CEO Noah Baskett about the decision and what it means for the library’s future.   Listen to our episode where we first discussed the SLC public library staff buyouts. [City Cast Salt Lake]  Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.  Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Arts Festival Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden

Public outcry over the Box Elder County data center seems to be working. Executive producer Emily Means, social media manager Molly Miloscia, and Stewardship Utah co-director David Garbett break down state leaders' latest response and updates. Plus, ex-Mormons are getting more Republican and local shoutouts.   Resources and references: Check out our City Cast Salt Lake voter guide for the CD1 Democratic primary.  ‘Rejected’: Voters won’t get a say on Box Elder data center, county attorney says [Salt Lake Tribune] Cox orders ‘higher bar’ for data centers, says public input ‘absolutely matters’ [Utah News Dispatch] Ex-Mormons have gotten more Republican over the last decade [KUER] Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Arts Festival Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

June is here, and it's summertime in Salt Lake City. Executive producer Emily Means, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Jack Stauss bring you a guide on how to make the most of this gorgeous month, from the downtown farmers market to the best spot for cheap, cold beer, to some feel-good volunteer opportunities. For more patio inspo, listen to this episode. For even more tips on how to make the most of June in Salt Lake, check out our daily morning newsletter. City Cast Salt Lake is made possible by our awesome sponsor, the Utah Arts Festival. We’re 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 Salt Lake. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Check out our options. Reach us at [email protected] Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Utah Arts Festival Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden

Where would Salt Lake City be without its libraries? Chicago is opening its 82nd public library branch in June, and loaning out books is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what these institutions offer residents. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran about how Chicago’s libraries have evolved to meet community needs, from opening a food pantry inside a branch to turning student IDs into automatic library cards — and how they could be even better. Plus, are the Chicago Bears still the Chicago Bears if they move to Indiana? 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.

How does Trump want to spend $1 billion to save the Great Salt Lake? Executive producer Emily Means and City Cast Salt Lake contributors Chandler Rosenberg and Kate Groetzinger break down what "saving" the lake actually looks like. Plus, takeaways from the Congressional District 1 debate, picks of the week, and in our members-only segment: Do three Utah communities hold the secret to long life? Resources and references: Here is what’s in Donald Trump’s $1B plan to save the Great Salt Lake [Salt Lake Tribune] Nate Blouin vows to exit Utah’s CD1 primary if progressive rivals poll higher [KUER] Democratic candidates spar in 1st Congressional District primary debate [FOX 13] Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Canyon View Credit Union