City Cast Twin Cities

Minneapolis parks are ranked among the best in the country, so what happens when the mayor proposes cutting their funding nearly in half? Park Commissioner Jason Garcia of District 4 breaks down the budget standoff between Mayor Jacob Frey and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, and what's actually at stake for rec centers and green space across the city. Then, guest Nisi Collins talks about joining the Children's Theatre's first-ever Core Company and starring in the upcoming production of Pinocchio. Then, only our members will find out what Executive Producer Anna Weggel will not be buying for $10,000 at the state fair this year. If you don’t want to miss this hot tea, Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor today. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Pinocchio at Children’s Theatre  Minneapolis mayor, park board at odds over consolidation [KSTP] A message to the city of Minneapolis: Consolidation would hurt our parks [MinnPost] Frey’s proposed budget gives Minneapolis Park board less than half of what it asked for [MinnPost] New Foods for 2026 | Minnesota State Fair  Learn more about the sponsors of this August 21st episode: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Science Museum of Minnesota Xcel Energy Paddle & Portage Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

This weekend, Minneapolis becomes home to the very first Midwest Black Book Fair. Dr. Terresa Hardaway shares how she built it (and how to get your free tickets!). PaviElle French joins guest host Tiffany Bui to talk about their experiences as people of color in the suburbs – before and after some burbs “became even more racially diverse than the Twin Cities”. And Carrie Openshaw at The Bond Between tells us about the adoptable dog who currently has her heart, and how the region rallied to care for the pets of people displaced by Operation Metro Surge.     ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Midwest Black Book Fair⁠ ⁠The Bond Between⁠ ⁠These Twin Cities suburbs are more diverse than Minneapolis or St. Paul⁠ (Star Tribune) Learn more about the sponsors of this August 20th episode: ⁠Ordway Center for the Performing Arts⁠ ⁠Science Museum of Minnesota⁠ ⁠Xcel Energy⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

Good pop-ups are restaurant quality. We’ll talk about the ones worth waiting down the block for. Election Day is closer than you think, and with all the big-ticket races you might miss the ones that really matter close to home. Here’s why you should pay attention to who's your county commissioner. Finally, we’re joined by Francesca Fiorentini, host of the podcast The Bitchuation Room. Catch her at the Parkway Theater with special guests Sen. Zaynab Mohamed and comedian Lizz Winstead. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ ⁠The Bitchuation Room LIVE⁠ Pop-ups to follow: ⁠@_fish_food812⁠, ⁠@bangkoksweetheart.mn⁠, ⁠@ratio.matcha.mpls⁠, ⁠@cafecitohouse⁠, ⁠@brookefaudree⁠ for Tatin Learn more about the sponsors of this August 19th episode: ⁠Ordway Center for the Performing Arts⁠ ⁠Science Museum of Minnesota⁠ ⁠Xcel Energy⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

Today we are revisiting a conversation about what makes Duluth punch so far above its weight in music and arts. We’ll head north with Kristi Olson, publisher of the biweekly print zine On the Record, who maps out the Duluth arts scene and shares what's worth catching this summer. Then, Duluth fiddle artist and NPR Tiny Desk Contest winner Gaelynn Lea joins to talk about her debut memoir “It Wasn't Meant to Be Perfect”, a candid look at music, disability, and life as a touring artist. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode:It Wasn't Meant to Be Perfect (Gaelynn Lea) On the Record Zine (Kristi Olson) Duluth Homegrown Music Festival Magic Smelt Parade (Visit Duluth) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this August 18th episode: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Science Museum of Minnesota Xcel Energy Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Today, we dig into Minneapolis's long-running and expensive ShotSpotter gunshot detection program with Ella Stern of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, then historian Drew M. Ross joins to unpack the swindles, land grabs, and bitter rivalries that explain why Minneapolis and St. Paul never merged into one city. Plus, hear guitarist Conor Lee perform an original composition on the White Squirrel patio. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Following policing and surveillance concerns, Minneapolis to receive audit of ShotSpotter technology ⁠(MSR) ⁠Becoming the Twin Cities⁠ (Minnesota Historical Society) ⁠Conor Lee⁠ ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this August 17th episode: ⁠Ordway Center for the Performing Arts⁠ ⁠Science Museum of Minnesota⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

With the State Fair just around the corner, Minnesota and Ramsey County are taking an unusual legal step – suing two local gangs to stop a brawl that one of them literally advertised on social media. We’ll break down what the civil gang nuisance law actually does and why the Somali community has real reason to be nervous, then we’ll sit down with Eric Harris Bernstein, vice president of the Minneapolis Board of Estimate and Taxation, to untangle a $32 million budget gap, a double-digit property tax hike, and what it means that a police department keeps blowing past its budget. Plus, a rousing game of Hot Dish Hushhh (for members only!), and find out why Sean thinks “squash is trash”. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Bauhaus Brew Labs will reopen on August 15, 2026 Injunctions banning Somali gangs from State Fair receives support from community members (Sahan Journal) State, Ramsey County sue gangs to prevent MN State Fair violence (Pioneer Press)   Minnesota State Fair assistant police chief sues Ramsey County sheriff for retaliation (MPR News)  Twin Cities Somali leaders criticize Ramsey County sheriff's approach to youth gang violence (MPR News)  Minneapolis mayor proposes millions in cuts, over 100 job cuts and 11.3% property tax increase (Star Tribune) Frey outlines new approach to Minneapolis police spending for 2027 city budget (MPR News)   Eric Harris Bernstein on police spending (Instagram) Judge: St. Paul ‘right to repair’ measure must appear on November ballots (Star Tribune) New Twin Cities LGBTQ magazine set to launch this October (Star Tribune) Learn more about the sponsors of this August 14th episode: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Have you ever watched a primary election this closely? From the voter turnout to the candidates, Tuesday’s election was historic. We run down the results and what they mean. Plus, theater critic Wesley Hortenbach and Racket editor Jessica Armbruster have watched a lot of shows at Fringe Fest. Here’s what’s worth seeing. A new way to get farm-to-table produce has arrived in the Minneapolis Lynnhurst neighborhood. Lily Gross opened Radish Farm Stop, which makes it easier for small farmers and producers to reach customers.  Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor The latest: Minnesota primary election (MPR News) Minnesota Primary Results 2026: Senate, House and Governor  (Associated Press) Ramsey County to get a new commissioner, replacing 30-year veteran (Pioneer Press)Watership Down Magical Athlete Stadium Showdown 1 Hour Left to Live: A One Puppet Show by That Felt Good I Will Become The Silver Surfer. I Will Protect You. First Bite: Radish Farm Stop (Mpls - St. Paul Magazine) Meet Your Candidates: City Cast Twin Cities' 2026 Election Interviews  Learn more about the sponsors of this August 13th episode: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Minnesota's thriving THC beverage industry is under threat of a looming federal ban that is set to go into effect on November 12. Indeed Brewing Chief Business Officer Ryan Bandy is on the podcast today to talk about how that would impact breweries, and why a proposed 30-day delay on the ban is actually a pretty big deal. Also, Sean chats with contributor Tane Danger about a tenants' "Right to Repair" ballot measure that will go to St. Paul voters after advocates collected over 5,300 signatures and won a lawsuit against the city. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: State Supreme Court denies St. Paul's last ditch effort to remove right to repair ballot measure (MPR News) Judge orders St. Paul to put Tenant Right to Repair initiative on November ballot (KARE 11)   What a federal ban on THC-infused drinks and snacks could mean for the hemp industry (MPR News) Senate Continues Spending Bill Talks Today—Here's The Hemp Ban Holding It Up (Forbes) Spending Bill with Hemp Extension Passes the Senate (Amy Klobuchar) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this August 12th episode: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Late-night hangs don’t have to center alcohol. Writer Ali Elabbady tells us about how Yemeni, Egyptian, and Somali coffee shops are bringing back third spaces. Plus, it’s primary day, where voters decide which party candidates will compete in the general election. We sit down with two more candidates; Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan is running for the U.S. Senate seat, and Kendall Qualls is running for governor. Hear each candidate’s top priorities for Minnesota.  Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Slow Down! Cultural Cafes Are Offering Places to Settle in With Friends (Racket) Qualls and Lindell pitch ‘radical change’ in vision for governor’s office (Star Tribune)  Learn more about the sponsors of this August 11th episode: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Minnesota's Office of Restorative Practices funds and coordinates restorative approaches across pretrial diversion, juvenile justice, schools, and community violence prevention. Alica Nichols leads the office, and she joins the podcast today to talk about what restorative justice looks in violence prevention and in healing communities after violence has taken place. Later, Rep. Angie Craig talks about what she would prioritize if elected as a U.S. Senator, and state Rep. Cedrick Frazier discusses how he would lead if elected as Hennepin County Attorney. Minnesota's primary elections are tomorrow – find your polling place here, and make a plan to vote. You can see transcripts of all of our interviews with candidates this election season here. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Minnesota's Office of Restorative Practices Angie Craig Cedrick Frazier  Meet Your Candidates: City Cast Twin Cities' 2026 Election Interviews  Become a City Cast Twin Cities NeighborWant to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

As much as you love the Twin Cities, city living inherently means sharing space and resources with your neighbors, and y’all certainly have complaints, questions, and quandaries. On today’s very first call-in episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz is joined by Bridget Todd, host of City Cast DC, and Jane C. Hu, host of City Cast Seattle, to respond to your dilemmas, from when it’s acceptable to intervene on a bike path to what to do about that neighbor who really lets it all hang out. Have more city dilemmas? Send them in for our next call-in show. 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.

What’s new at the State Fair? Maria Hayden from the Minnesota State Fair tells us about the ‘America Wheel’ for the country’s 250th birthday and more things to check out when you go. Thomas Berry, vice president of the Minneapolis NAACP, says the city has yet to relocate residents who want to leave Heritage Park. Cat Polivoda-Grae of Cake Plus-Size Resale and Fat Beach Day has created welcoming spaces based on fat liberation. Finally, we’re interviewing primary candidates for state and local offices. Our first is Hao Nguyen, who is running for Hennepin County Attorney.  Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ ⁠Minnesota State Fair app⁠ ⁠Residents frustrated with slow pace of repairs, relocations from troubled Mpls housing complex⁠ (MPR News) ⁠Fat Beach Day⁠ - August 9  ⁠Hao Nguyen⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

We are less than a week away from the primary elections in Minnesota which are happening next Tuesday. Early voting is already open, and TPT Almanac's political reporter Mary Lahammer is on the podcast today to give us a rundown about the races to watch and what makes this year's primaries so unusual for Minnesota politics. Later, reporter Clint Combs joins the conversation to discuss recent developments in the case against the Cities Church protesters that could open up weaknesses in the federal government's case.  Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Minnesota Voting Information Portal (Minnesota Secretary of State) Judge restricts travel of ICE protester charged with disrupting Minnesota church service (The Guardian)Righteous 39, Minnesota 15 defendants speak out as judge orders grand jury disclosure in Fort case (Spokesman-Recorder) Become a City Cast Twin Cities NeighborWant to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Tomorrow, St. Paul begins clearing one of its biggest unsheltered encampments. Where will people go next? The city doesn’t have a clear answer. Fringe Festival begins this week, a roving consortium of 100 plus performances under 60 minutes. For 11 days, we all become theatre critics. Finally, the 1989 abduction of Jacob Wetterling in St. Joseph changed childhoods across the country. Director Chris Newberry of “Echoes in the Night: The Search for Jacob Wetterling” tells us how he walked with the Wetterling family as they pushed for answers – and finally got them.  Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor St. Paul: Shelter providers scramble ahead of Aug. 5 deadline to clear homeless camps (Pioneer Press) Minnesota Fringe Festival  Discounted MN Fringe Fest tickets through SmART Pass Echoes in the Night: The Search for Jacob Wetterling Jacob Wetterling Resource Center  Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Today, we revisit two of the Twin Cities' most beloved pastimes: secondhand shopping and learning things the hard way. Producer and vintage enthusiast Tiffany Bui breaks down the difference between a thrift store and a true vintage store and shares her top picks across the Twin Cities, including one shop she visits specifically when she's sad. Then, contributors Em Cassel, Denzel Belin, Winter Keefer, Pavielle French, Sam Choo, Kirstie Kimball, and Tane Danger – along with executive producer Anna Weggel – confess their most memorable Twin Cities rookie mistakes, from $400 in State Fair food to a kayak trip into a pitch-black tunnel beneath Minneapolis that may have awakened something. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Top 5 Vintage Stores (City Cast Twin Cities) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her is under investigation after being accused of sexual harassment by police chief Axel Henry, and it's not the first time she has been accused of making inappropriate comments to coworkers and others. Also, Elon Musk's xAI is suing Minnesota to stop the implementation of a new law that bans nonconsensual AI-generated porn. At the end of the episode, we get a palate cleanser after those stories when The Video Store MPLS founder Eric Knobel joins the conversation to talk about his vision to bring physical media back to the Twin Cities. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠St. Paul Mayor Her investigated for sexual harassment allegations involving police chief⁠ (Star Tribune) ⁠St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her says she intends to stay in office amid harassment investigation⁠ (Star Tribune) ⁠Elon Musk’s company X.AI sues Minnesota over new law to bar manipulated images to fake nudity⁠ (MPR News)  ⁠Keith Ellison posts on X that he'll "see X in court"⁠ (X) ⁠xAI's official complaint⁠ (KSTP)    ⁠The Video Store MPLS⁠ ⁠The Video Store MPLS: Bringing Brick-and-Mortar Movie Rentals Back to the Twin Cities⁠ (Racket)  ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this July 31st episode: ⁠Minnesota Orchestra⁠ - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets ⁠Sailor Sensuals⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

What would you spend more than a decade fighting for? After much debate, stalling, and protests, the East Phillips Neighborhood Institute bought the Roof Depot site. EPNI’s Priscilla Trinh shares how they’re planning to transform the area into an urban farm and community space. Plus, Nate Dungan has been booking the State Fair’s free stages for 20 years. He recommends up-and-coming artists you shouldn’t miss. Finally, what to do in August (besides go to the fair).  Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Roof Depot renderings (East Phillips Neighborhood Institute)  Your August Guide to the Twin Cities (City Cast Twin Cities) How to get to the State Fair (Minnesota State Fair) Learn more about the sponsors of this July 30th episode: Minnesota Orchestra - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets Sailor Sensuals Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

An iron foundry in St. Paul and a shingle factory in Minneapolis are both under scrutiny for polluting their once-redlined neighborhoods. Sahan Journal environmental justice reporter Andrew Hazzard joins the show to share why these facilities ended up in such densely populated areas, and a new law that aims to prevent further pollution of our neighborhoods. Later, Frogtown Community Radio station co-director Katey DeCelle and Frogtown Tuned In president Phillip Gracia join to talk about WFNU hitting 10 years on the air and their upcoming ⁠celebration⁠ on Saturday Aug. 1. Composer and producer Adrian Younge of ⁠Jazz is Dead⁠ also joins the show to run down his top five Twin Cities records of all time ahead of his ⁠Big Show at Indeed Brewing⁠, which is also on Saturday. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Minnesota Orchestra⁠ - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets ⁠Sailor Sensuals⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at⁠ citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

The iconic fist sculpture that usually stands in George Floyd Square is now in Madison, Wisconsin. It’s a symbol of solidarity between Minneapolis and Madison, after local police fatally shot a Black man last Wednesday. Six years after the murder of George Floyd, the site of a burned-down Wells Fargo will now be home for at least 100 new tenants. Karla Henderson, president and CEO of Project for Pride in Living, tells us how she marshaled millions of dollars from every level of local government and from corporations who didn’t always believe in the project. Plus, the Rondo Block Party celebrates its fourth year. Come on out. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Chris Juhn: "Part of George Floyd Square now resides at the memorial for Corey Ruiz." Opportunity Crossing opens on site of Wells Fargo branch burned in 2020 uprising (Spokesman-Recorder)  Rondo Block Party Learn more about the sponsors of this July 28th episode: Minnesota Orchestra - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets Sailor Sensuals Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

A St. Paul coffee shop turns 15, and we sit down with Mary Hogan-Bard, the original owner of Claddagh Coffee, to talk about what it takes to anchor a neighborhood for a decade and a half. Then, Kat Turner from Rising Waters Mutual Aid breaks down what the city's plan to clear encampments starting at Pig's Eye Park actually means for the people living there, followed by Julia McColley, Executive Director of the West Seventh/Fort Road Federation, on how to grow a community without losing its soul. Then we close things out with a St. Paul-themed round of Hot Dish Hush. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this July 27th episode: Minnesota Orchestra - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets Sailor Sensuals Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

The Boundary Waters wilderness is closed through July 29, and it’s serious over there. Though many people have been safely evacuated, outfitters and other businesses are struggling. Joe Friedrichs of Paddle and Portage shares other things you can do in the area. Plus, Bauhaus Brew Labs has been revived through new owner ABV Technology. CEO Ben Jordan talks about what Bauhaus 2.0 will look like in a low-alcohol era. Finally, who’s got the better raccoon: Seattle’s Jimothy, or MPR’s skyscraper-climbing critter of 2018? Only members get to hear about the raccoon wars today. Sign up today to hear the full episode! Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Boundary Waters wildfires bring grief over forest loss, but hope for long-term renewal (MPR News) Bauhaus Brew Labs will reopen and serve much more than beer (Star Tribune)   Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this July 24th episode: Minnesota Orchestra - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets Paddle & Portage Sailor Sensuals Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

A South Minneapolis sex store used their virality and social media reach to fundraise hundreds of thousands of dollars in mutual aid during Operation Metro Surge. We dive deep into the story of Smitten Kitten, and how they went from almost closing forever to rallying a community behind them. Their partnership with a nonprofit serving Somali women shows how perceived differences fall away in moments of crisis, and why anyone can answer the call to service. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Smitten Kitten Isuroon Learn more about the sponsors of this July 22nd episode: Minnesota Orchestra - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets Sailor Sensuals Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

It was a deadly weekend, as gun violence injured 14 people and took the life of one. Is this a summer cluster, or an outlier? Also, if you’ve been thinking about explosive diarrhea as much as we have, don’t worry. Annalisa Hultberg, an educator at University of Minnesota Extension, assures us Minnesota produce is safe from the multi-state cyclospora outbreak. Plus, if you’re in the mood for food that unexpectedly mixes two cultures, check out Roseanne Pereira’s latest edition of Keep It Local. She talks about a Japanese-Peruvian spot in Hopkins, and a catering company that blew her mind. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to Keep It Local⁠ ⁠Triple Homicide Under Investigation in St. Paul’s Highland Park⁠ (Pioneer Press) ⁠After a Weekend of Gunfire, Minneapolis again searches for solution to summer violence⁠ (Star Tribune) Learn more about the sponsors of this July 22nd episode: ⁠Minnesota Orchestra⁠ - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets ⁠Sailor Sensuals⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

Minneapolis was just ranked the third fittest city in the U.S. by the American College of Sports Medicine – what do you think pushed us near the top? Owner of Solcana Fitness Hannah Wydeven joins the show to talk fitness and to share about the nearly-sold-out Lake Street Food Walk she is organizing this weekend. Later, Kirstie Kimball of beyond beurre blanc talks about what makes a good french fry and shares some of her favorite spots after eating fries over 100 different restaurants in Minnesota. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠PLEASE TAKE OUR SURVEY PLEASE PLEASE⁠ (City Cast Twin Cities) ⁠American Fitness Index⁠ (American College of Sports Medicine) ⁠I Tried Over 100 Minnesota French Fries. Here are My Top 6.⁠ (beyond beurre blanc) ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this July 21st episode: ⁠Minnesota Orchestra⁠ - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets ⁠Sailor Sensuals⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

A routine errand turned into a police stop for automotive journalist Joel Feder, who was wrongly flagged as a car thief by an AI-powered license plate surveillance network. He joins us to break down how a typo in a national database cascaded into four squad cars boxing him in at a Kohl's parking lot. Then, contributor Winter Keefer walks us through Minnesota's high-stakes primary season, from the governor's race and Trump's endorsement of Mike Lindell to the Flanagan-Craig Senate showdown. Plus, we've got your week planned: a Bernie Sanders rally at First Ave, free fishing lessons at Lake Phalen, the Twin Cities Tattoo Festival, and more. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this July 20th episode: Minnesota Orchestra - Use code CITYCAST26 for up to four $25 tickets Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

It's bad out there, folks. With wildfire smoke from Canada and northern Minnesota blanketing the Twin Cities at unprecedented levels, Extension Educator with the University of Minnesota's Climate Adaptation Partnership Seth Spencer is on the show today to give us all some advice on how to stay safe and healthy. Later the team runs down the candidates that you need to know about for the upcoming Hennepin County Attorney primary and celebrates some Twin Cities Wins from the week. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Wildfire smoke concentration is now record-setting. Air quality alerts cover most of Minnesota.⁠ (Star Tribune) ⁠Hazardous air quality forecast for much of Minnesota Thursday⁠ (MPR News) ⁠Smoke Floating Far From Canada’s Wildfires Will Darken Skies Again on Thursday⁠ (NYT) ⁠Stay safe and healthy during bad air days with these DIY air purifiers⁠ (UMN Climate Adaptation Partnership) ⁠Meet Your Hennepin County Attorney⁠ (Sahan Journal) Quiz ⁠Frazier claims labor backing in wide-open Hennepin County Attorney race⁠ (insightnews.com) ⁠Political lawyer Matt Pelikan is third candidate to announce run for Hennepin County Attorney⁠ (Star Tribune) ⁠Twin Cities Retro Boats on Lake Harriet⁠ (KSTP) ⁠Rondo Days⁠ ⁠Recovery Bike Shop⁠ ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this July 17th episode: ⁠The Cedar Cultural Center⁠ ⁠Studio J-Bo⁠ ⁠Twin Cities PBS⁠ ⁠Minnehaha Falls Art Fair⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

Neighbors of Heritage Park have experienced the worst – black mold, rats, squatters, and so much more. The city of Minneapolis is looking to spend $2.5 million to fix some of the issues and even relocate some residents. We talk about how the city’s attempt to fix segregation only led to more broken promises. In response to the heat dome hovering above us we rattle off our top five favorite beaches. Plus, skip the line at Sea Salt Eatery and try making po’boys at home with their new cookbook. “Sea Salt Eatery: Recipes to Enjoy Year-Round” is a labor of love between co-owner Kait Ziemer-Davis and her mother-in-law/former Star Tribune editor Gail Rosenblum. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ ⁠Minneapolis mayor and council member want $2.5M to help relocate Heritage Park residents⁠ (Star Tribune) ⁠The broken Hollman promise⁠ (Peall Warren) ⁠'The Cruelty of Nice Folks' in Minneapolis, Minnehaha Art Fair Tips, and Remembering Harry Singh⁠ (City Cast Twin Cities) ⁠Sea Salt Eatery⁠ (University of Minnesota Press) Learn more about the sponsors of this July 16th episode: ⁠The Cedar Cultural Center⁠ ⁠Studio J-Bo⁠ ⁠Twin Cities PBS⁠ ⁠Minnehaha Falls Art Fair⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

What happens to a pop star when the world moves on? Andrea Swensson and Denzel Belin join the show today to talk about the rise and fall of Lizzo, who used to call Minneapolis home. Then, we break down the latest in the state's investigation into the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and we open up a spicy hot mailbag which is filled to the brim with positivity and filled to at least the half brim with negativity about bike lanes! Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor How Lizzo Became One of Pop Culture’s Great Flops (The Atlantic) An Oral History of Lizzo's Rise to Fame from Minneapolis (Mpls.St.Paul Magazine) Feds share evidence in Good, Pretti shootings with state investigators months after stonewalling (Sahan Journal) Feds turn over evidence in killings of Renee Good, Alex Pretti by immigration agents (Minnesota Reformer) ICE Agent Charged in Minnesota Shooting Does Not Agree to Leave Texas (New York Times) Learn more about the sponsors of this July 15th episode: The Cedar Cultural Center Studio J-Bo Twin Cities PBS Minnehaha Falls Art Fair Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Lyndale Avenue needs a facelift, but the issue has been overshadowed by a fight over whether to install bike lanes. Star Tribune columnist Eric Roper says while the plan (bike lane and all) is all but set in place, local government should focus on keeping small businesses afloat during construction. The feds are relying on Signal messages to indict 15 protesters on conspiracy charges but reporter Clint Combs asks: how did they get those secure, private chats? Plus, local TikTok influencers called out a homebuilder for allegedly botching their $1 million home. The company tried to silence them. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Roper: Lyndale Avenue bike lane fight misses the real problem (Star Tribune) Lyndale Avenue reconstruction public meeting (Taylor Dahlin) Government Says Terabytes of Signal Chats are Central to the Case Against Minnesota 15 (Unicorn Riot) Minnesota Social Media Stars’ Legal fight with local homebuilder goes viral (Star Tribune) @momchats (Tik Tok) Learn more about the sponsors of this July 14th episode: The Cedar Cultural Center Studio J-Bo Twin Cities PBS Minnehaha Falls Art Fair Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Workers at the Northeast Minneapolis Kings Road Merch warehouse have provided merch for some of the biggest names in punk music. But after they voted to unionize, parent company Sony Music announced plans to close their warehouse for good. Tim Lunning, a representative from the Kings Road Merch Union, joins the podcast to talk about why he believes Sony's actions amount to unionbusting, and how the workers are fighting back. Later, legendary musician and producer Gary Hines joins the conversation to talk about why he made the decision to pull his Black drum corp, the Sabathanites, out of the Aquatennial parade in the 1960's – and why he eventually returned to the festival in 2010. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: minneapolis punks voted to unionize a merch warehouse. sony music plans to shut it down. (see/saw) Paradox: Echoes of Reform & the Minneapolis Police (PBS) Sabathanites return to Aquatennial (Insight News) Sabathanites Drum Corps (MNopedia) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this July 13th episode: The Cedar Cultural Center Studio J-Bo Twin Cities PBS Minnehaha Falls Art Fair Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

You don’t have to rewind time to rent physical copies of movies. Contributor and Racket co-owner Em Cassel tells us about Saturn Video, which hopes to combine video rentals with a cafe for the ultimate third space. We also pick our top five vintage stores to fit any aesthetic you’re looking for. Plus, the Trader Joe’s vs Aldi rave at First Ave is an April Fools’ joke turned real. We play a game with the (also real) DJ Hampster Dance. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ ⁠Saturn Video Instagram⁠ ⁠Does Minneapolis have a 'Video Rental Guild'? If So, Saturn Video Is Its Newest Member.⁠ (Racket) ⁠The Video Store MPLS: Bringing Brick-and-Mortar Movie Rentals Back to the Twin Cities⁠ (Racket) ⁠Trader Joe’s vs. Aldi Rave ★ First Avenue⁠ ⁠Love Token⁠ ⁠B. resale⁠ ⁠Moth Oddities⁠ ⁠The Mall of St. Paul⁠ ⁠Time Bomb Vintage⁠ If you enjoyed this interview with Sam Holt, the Senior Partner Development Manager for TaskRabbit, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 10th episode: ⁠The Cedar Cultural Center⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

Harry Singh brought previously unheard of levels of spice to Minnesota when he opened his Caribbean restaurant in Minneapolis over 40 years ago, and he was a pillar in the community until passing away peacefully in his home last Friday. On today's episode, Sean and contributor Tane Danger reflect on their experiences with Harry and his food. They also interview Justin Ellis, author of "The Cruelty of Nice Folks", about Minneapolis' complicated history and how we tend to fall short of effecting real progressive change in the long run. Later, events manager Nichole Showalter joins the conversation to talk about the upcoming Minnehaha Falls Art Fair, which runs from July 17 through 19. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Twin Cities Caribbean food 'trailblazer' Harry Singh dies at 81 (MPR News) The Cruelty of Nice Folks: Why Minneapolis Is the Story of America (Harper Collins Publishers) Minnehaha Falls Art Fair (Homespun Events)  Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this July 9th episode: ⁠⁠The Cedar Cultural Center⁠⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

Minnesota may be a blue state, but our House and Senate races are looking purple-y. MinnPost reporter Matt Blake tells us how these nailbiter races might affect everything from gun reform to data centers. Speaking of, Eagan is getting sued by a data center owner over their moratorium. The case could set a precedent for other cities looking to regulate these sprawling developments, sometimes shrouded in secrecy. Finally, country music is on the rise; the Minnesota Country Club Festival, sibling to the popular Yacht Club, comes to Harriet Island this week. But the headliners show the definition of “country” is getting blurry. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Minnesota legislative battlegrounds⁠⁠ (MinnPost) ⁠⁠Data center company sues Eagan over development pause⁠⁠ (Pioneer Press) ⁠⁠Making sense of Minnesota Yacht Club’s new ‘country’ offshoot festival⁠⁠ (Star Tribune) ⁠⁠Minnesota Country Club Festival⁠⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this July 8th episode: ⁠⁠The Cedar Cultural Center⁠⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, or email us at ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠⁠.

What makes Duluth punch so far above its weight in music and arts? Today we head north with Kristi Olson, publisher of the biweekly print zine On the Record, who maps out the Duluth arts scene and shares what's worth catching this summer. Then, Duluth fiddle artist and NPR Tiny Desk Contest winner Gaelynn Lea joins to talk about her debut memoir “It Wasn't Meant to Be Perfect”, a candid look at music, disability, and life as a touring artist. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: It Wasn't Meant to Be Perfect (Gaelynn Lea) On the Record Zine (Kristi Olson) Duluth Homegrown Music Festival Magic Smelt Parade (Visit Duluth) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this July 7th episode: The Cedar Cultural Center Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

A St. Paul ballot initiative wants to give renters the power to fix what their landlords won't, so we talked to Cole Hanson, political coordinator for the Safe Homes Saint Paul campaign, to break down how the right-to-repair measure would actually work, who's signing the petitions, and whether a $500 cap is enough to make a real difference. Then, Clint Combs of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder joins to unpack why Minneapolis is considering a drone first-responder pilot program, why activists are raising alarms about the company behind it, the lack of cost transparency, and the fact that it's being tested exclusively on the Northside. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Cole Hanson: St. Paul, give renters the tools to fix what’s broken (Pioneer Press) Minneapolis Considers Drone Pilot Program for North Minneapolis, Activists Push Back (Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this July 6th episode: BidFTA Online Auctions Paddle & Portage The Cedar Cultural Center Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

See if your Twin Cities 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.

A new chapter in Indigenous cuisine has arrived in Minneapolis. Today, we talk with James Beard Award-winning chef Sean Sherman about Indígena by Owamni, his just-opened restaurant at the Guthrie Theater and what it means to put Indigenous ingredients and culture at the center of a menu. Then, Sahan Journal reporter Joey Peters breaks down how contracts for deed are being used to exploit Somali homebuyers in Minnesota, and what a recent court verdict means for accountability. Finally, Tane Danger reflects on moderating an onstage conversation between Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and City Council President Elliott Payne at the Granada Theater. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Indígena by Owamni Indígena by Owamni opens a new chapter for Sean Sherman's Indigenous cooking (MPR News) How Contracts for Deed Put Families at Financial Risk (ProPublica / Sahan Journal) Political foes Minneapolis mayor and City Council president partner in unlikely improv show (Star Tribune) The Future of Minneapolis show (Theater of Public Policy) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Upcoming Theater of Public Policy shows: July 14: Hennepin County with Commissioners Angela Conley, Irene Fernando, and Marion Greene July 28, Infectious Disease with U of M public health expert Dr. Michael Osterholm August 11, Closing the Racial Wealth Gap with GroundBreak CEO Adair Mosley August 25: Global Affairs with Mary Curtin, Thomas Hanson, and Arshad Muhammad September 9: The Future of St. Paul with Mayor Kaohly Her and City Council President Rebecca Noecker *Tickets at dangerboat.net/upcoming Learn more about the sponsors of this July 2nd episode: Vida y Deportes Twin Cities PBS BidFTA Online Auctions Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

July will happily remind you that summer is a marathon and a sprint. There’s a lot to do and you can’t do it all. Let us plan your month for you with tips on where to float, pick berries, see shows, and enjoy a picnic with a view. Then, our entire cast of contributors will share their greatest Twin Cities regrets. Don’t be like us! Avoid these rookie mistakes! Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Your Guide to the Twin Cities in July (City Cast Twin Cities) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor If you enjoyed today's interview with Brandon Savela, Co-Founder and CEO at North Canna, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 1st episode: Vida y Deportes Twin Cities PBS BidFTA Online Auctions Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

A heat dome has settled over the Twin Cities, and we’re sharing recommendations to beat the beat. Also tune in for a full roundup of the best spots Northeast has to offer. Food critic Kirstie Kimball and Midwest Excellence Newsletter writer Randball’s Stu share their survival strategies for the week ahead, while a backstage conversation with Sean Kershaw and Timothy Hawkins reveals how a backyard wedding singalong in West 7th quietly became one of the most beloved concert series in the city. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: The Future of Minneapolis event (Theater of Public Policy) The Midwest Excellence Guide to Beating the Heat (Randball Stu) Grand Oak Opry Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this June 30 episode: Vida y Deportes Twin Cities PBS BidFTA Online Auctions Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

It’s our first ever live show! We take the stage at Pilllar Forum to talk about the state of indie venues with owner Corey Bracken. FYI, don’t bring your George Foreman grill into the green room. We prognosticate on the big issues facing the Twin Cities and play Hot Dish Hushhhhh. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this June 29th episode: Vida y Deportes Twin Cities PBS BidFTA Online Auctions Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Today we head to Northeast Minneapolis – recording live at Pillar Forum – to dig into what's really happening with the neighborhood's beloved brewery scene and where the Northeast neighborhoods are headed next. Contributor Hans Buetow and the Northeaster’s Davis Steen break down which breweries are closing, what might fill those massive spaces, and whether Northeast can hold onto the artists and communities that made it worth caring about in the first place. And to hear our conversation about an extremely niche singles club, all you have to do is become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor! Join today. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Buckthorn Removal Singles Club Chimborazo is still open Momo Sushi Rises Again (MSP Mag) Northeaster If you enjoyed today's interview with Jill Hornbacher, the Senior Director of Public Relations at Comcast, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 26th episode: North Canna - get 30% of your first purchase at northcanna.com Indeed Brewing Company Studio J-Bo Twin Cities PBS Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill implements new work requirements for Medicaid recipients. That could disrupt or disappear addiction treatment for many Minnesotans. MinnPost’s Andy Steiner tells us what’s at stake. As America prepares to celebrate 250 years, we’re looking to the past to understand how the future can be different. “Summer of ‘76” is a documentary remembering how Minnesotans celebrated the bicentennial. Executive director Daniel Pierce Bergin tells us about how Black artists and Native leaders influenced the moment, and why we can do better than a wrestling match on the White House lawn. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ ⁠Medicaid covers treatment for thousands of Minnesotans with substance use disorder. Is that about to change?⁠ (MinnPost) ⁠Summer of '76⁠ (TPT) If you enjoyed this interview with Sam Holt, the Senior Partner Development Manager for TaskRabbit, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 25th episode: ⁠North Canna⁠ - get 30% of your first purchase at northcanna.com ⁠Indeed Brewing Company⁠ ⁠Studio J-Bo⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

Minneapolis and St. Paul are both set to see some major developments along the Mississippi River in the coming years, and there's already plenty of great amenities to check out on the riverfront in North Minneapolis. There's also a lot of talk about bringing data centers to downtown Minneapolis as the city council is voting on whether or not to implement a six-month moratorium on new data center development in tomorrow's meeting. And St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her posted a video about how she's currently learning to swim via a program offered by St. Paul Parks, so we wanted to highlight some of the great adult education offerings available in the Twin Cities. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Few people realize how amazing the North Minneapolis riverfront is about to become (MinnPost) Ramsey County wants to spend $170M on park and housing in downtown St. Paul (Star Tribune) Data Centers Pushed as a Solution for Rampant Downtown Minneapolis Office Vacancies (Star Tribune) Browse Minneapolis community education offerings (Minneapolis Public Schools) Browse St. Paul community education offerings (St. Paul Public Schools) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this June 24th episode: North Canna - get 30% of your first purchase at northcanna.com Indeed Brewing Company Studio J-Bo Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

The Minneapolis Park Board is decommissioning the Minnehaha Off-Leash Dog Park, but there are plenty of other places to let your doggy roam. But…should you? If you’re looking to start (or end) a night on the town, we have recs for best restaurants open late. Finally, don’t break the bank buying berries. We talk about the best places to pick your own. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: ⁠Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor⁠ ⁠Minneapolis Park Board votes to close Minnehaha Dog Park amid intense public debate⁠ (Sahan Journal) Best late night restaurants: ⁠Mickey’s Dinner⁠, ⁠The Nicollet Diner⁠, ⁠Mac’s Industrial⁠, ⁠Juche⁠, ⁠Baba Saj⁠, ⁠Nightingale⁠, ⁠Meteor⁠ ⁠Stillwater Colorado Peaches⁠ Where to pick berries: ⁠Rod’s Berry Farm⁠, ⁠Little Hill Berry Farm⁠ For kids: ⁠Afton Apple⁠ If you enjoyed today's interview with Lindsey Atherton, Chief Communications Officer at Vida y Deportes, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 23rd episode: ⁠North Canna⁠ - get 30% of your first purchase at northcanna.com ⁠Indeed Brewing Company⁠ ⁠Studio J-Bo⁠ Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on ⁠Instagram⁠, or email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠.

As the national media has largely moved on from ICE's actions in the Twin Cities, Minneapolis council member Jason Chavez has continued to spread awareness of ICE's ongoing presence. Sean and contributor PaviElle French sit down with Chavez to talk about what he is seeing in his neighborhood and hearing from his constituents. Sean and PaviElle also talk about a recent Star Tribune poll that found only about 30% of Minnesotans statewide approve of our state flag design. Listeners and readers share their comments when Sean opens up the mailbag. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Minnesota Poll: New state flag deeply unpopular (Star Tribune) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsors of this June 22nd episode: North Canna - get 30% of your first purchase at northcanna.com Indeed Brewing Company Paddle & Portage Studio J-Bo Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

We’re spotlighting Northeast Minneapolis this June, which includes our week-long residency at music venue/coffee shop Pilllar Forum. Proprietor Corey Bracken tells us why the shop name has three ‘L’s.’ Treat your dad to a Father’s Day buffet without getting sick thanks to host dad Sean’s tips. We hop on a bike tour with Minneapolis Council President Elliott Payne, who talks about everything from the 140-year quest to complete the Grand Rounds Missing Link to the dynamics of hypercharged City Council meetings. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Our Week-Long Residency at Pilllar Forum (City Cast Twin Cities) CocoJoey and Anita Velveeta (Pilllar Forum) Bike Ride at Pilllar Forum Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and the City Council have entered couples counseling (Star Tribune) If you enjoyed today's interview with Lindsey Atherton, Chief Communications Officer at Vida y Deportes, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 18th episode: Make Music Madison Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

Federal prosecutors announce charges against people connected to anti-ICE demonstrations in Minneapolis, and the indictment may have implications far beyond the defendants. We dig into what happened at the DOJ press conference, what's in the indictment, and what community members are already doing to respond. Plus, Lisa Martelly joins to make the case for signing up your porch for Uptown Porchfest, and Hennepin County Library Director Scott Duimstra and St. Paul Public Library Deputy Director Rebecca Ryan reveal just how much you can do with a library card – from state park passes to live music to a vinyl listening room. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Live: Federal prosecutors to announce charges against anti-ICE demonstrators (Star Tribune) Read the federal indictment National Lawyer's Guild Minnesota Hotline: 612-444-2654 First Defense Hotline: 612-200-0844 Can You Be Arrested for Posting ICE Locations Online? (CTM Legal Group) Uptown Porchfest Kingfield Porchfest smART Pass (available to all Twin Cities metro area library card holders) Become a City Cast Twin Cities NeighborOur Week-Long Residency at Pilllar Forum Learn more about the sponsors of this June 17th episode: Make Music Madison Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

The best sports bar in America focuses on women’s sports, and it’s right here in Minneapolis. That’s according to USA Today Sports Reader’s Choice Awards. Owner Jillian Hiscock tells us the secret behind her 88% staff retention and the bar’s nonprofit helping women and girls afford sports. We also mark a year without Rep. Melissa Hortman – what local politics lost, and how we move forward. Plus, Minnesota Reformer reporter Madi McVan printed out 1,100 habeas corpus petitions to discover immigration agents detained hundreds of people with work permits, aka people here “the right way.” Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor A Bar of Their Own: 2026 USA TODAY Sports Readers' Choice Awards The government gave these Minnesota immigrants permission to live and work here — then detained them (Minnesota Reformer)  A year after the Hortmans were killed, legislators are still looking over their shoulders (Star Tribune) Boelter pleads guilty in lawmaker attacks, agrees to two life sentences (MPR News) If you enjoyed today's interview with Brandon Savela, Co-Founder and CEO at North Canna, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 16th episode: Make Music Madison Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

The owners and operators of Har Mar Mall are finally thinking about putting the dead mall out of its misery. But what should replace it? Also, it's another big week of summer events in the Twin Cities, and we got you covered with insider scoops on where to hang out and what festivals you should hit up around town. One festival you definitely need to check out is Soul of the Southside, a Juneteenth celebration of Black creativity, education, community wealth, and health and wellness. Festival director Fancy Lanier-Duncan joins Sean and City Cast contributor PaviElle French to talk about what to expect at this year's festivities. Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Har Mar Mall could be headed for the wrecking ball (Axios Twin Cities) What Should We Do With Har Mar Mall? (Racket) World Cup Fever (The Black Hart of St. Paul) No Brains, No Lightbulbs Live Podcast Taping (Bryant Lake Bowl) Go Your Own Way ⏤ A Fleetwood Mac Sing-along (Turf Club) Twin Cities Jazz Festival (Mears Park) Kingfield PorchFest (Kingfield neighborhood) Fierce: Pride Party (Eat Street Crossing) Soul of the Southside (E. Lake Street and Minnehaha Avenue) Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Learn more about the sponsor of this June 15th episode: Make Music Madison Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

The local brewery scene is going through a lot. It’s not just declining beer sales; just this week, 56 Brewing had to demolish their 9-year-old patio because it was built on Xcel Energy’s land. Fortunately, there’s other silver linings. We also talk to Mikki Morrissette of Minnesota Women’s Press and Jackie Renzetti of MinnPost about how they’re making local journalism accessible to all. We also celebrate some Twin Cities wins, featuring our brave class of 2026 graduates and some delicious coffee. Become a member today to hear us gripe and praise our Twin Cities Devils/Angels.  Learn more about the topics discussed in today's episode: Become a City Cast Twin Cities Neighbor Who we are and why we are building a consumer-owned media co-op  (Minnesota Women’s Press) Twin Cities Documenters (MinnPost) Last call for deck drinks: Minneapolis brewery forced to demolish patio on Xcel Energy land (Star Tribune) Minnesota craft breweries see steep declines in 2025 (Axios Twin Cities) Resilience at Roosevelt: Students graduate after year that brought ICE to their doorstep (Sahan Journal)  A unique coffee shop is brewing in the former Kopplin’s space, by the founder of Five Watt (Pioneer Press)  Twin Cities Pride Festival preview (Kare 11) Learn more about the sponsors of this June 12th episode: Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Vida y Deportes North Canna - get 30% of your first purchase at northcanna.com Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastTwinCities on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 612-217-0637. For more Twin Cities news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Twin Cities. Looking to advertise on City Cast Twin Cities? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.