City Cast Nashville

and recorded his first “emergency burger review” video. Since then, views on his social media burger takes have soared into the tens of thousands, and tonight, he’s a judge at Battle of the Burger 2026 at the Yard at oneC1TY. He joins Marie Cecile Anderson to explain his methodology, rank his top 5 burgers in town, and give us great local burger options for almost any occasion. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 14th episode: Window Nation Centennial Park Conservancy Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

As part of our continuing series on Nashville’s affordable housing crisis, today we’re looking at the challenges older adults are facing. The city has partnered with a program called Nesterly to pair seniors with younger residents through home sharing. Nesterly’s Nashville community liaison Kay Bowers joins Marie Cecile Anderson to explain how, and why, the program works. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 13th episode: Window Nation Centennial Park Conservancy Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Six months ago, chef Margot McCormack announced that Margot Café & Bar would close its doors on June 5, 2026 — the 25th anniversary of the French-inspired farm-to-table restaurant that launched Nashville’s now-booming food scene. She joins host Marie Cecile Anderson for an exit interview to share her thoughts on the community she’s built, why she couldn’t open a restaurant like Margot today, whether she ever got the national attention her trailblazing food deserved, and what she’s doing next. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 12th episode: Window Nation Centennial Park Conservancy Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The Tennessee General Assembly wrapped last month, and here to help us understand the education bills passed this session is Melissa Brown, Tennessee Bureau Chief for Chalkbeat Tennessee. She joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to break down everything from voucher expansion, to the Ten Commandments in classrooms, to stricter internet policies in schools. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 11th episode: Window Nation Centennial Park Conservancy Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

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

Thursday afternoon, Republicans in the Tennessee General Assembly, at the urging of President Trump, successfully approved new congressional maps for the state, cracking Memphis into three separate districts in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to gut the Voting Rights Act. Holly McCall, editor in chief of the Tennessee Lookout, joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to share her on-site reporting from the Capitol this week. Plus, we’re breaking down the results of Tuesday’s Davidson County primary election, and finding some fun festivals for the weekend to cheer us up. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 8th episode: Greater Birmingham CVB Window Nation Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Dolly Parton shared this week that she’s canceling her planned Vegas residency after dealing with health issues that left her feeling, in her words, “swimmy headed.” (Don’t worry — she says she’s improving every day.) So let’s celebrate Dolly the best way we know how: With a trip to Dollywood! Stand-up comedian and Dolly enthusiast Lydia Popovich joins us to map out the perfect visit, from can’t-miss rides to must-see shows, and what makes this place feel so magical. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 7th episode: Greater Birmingham CVB Window Nation Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Get your hats ready, because the 85th annual Iroquois Steeplechase is happening this Saturday at Percy Warner Park. It’s one of the year’s biggest see-and-be-seen events, and it helps raise vital funds for the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Joining host Marie Cecile Anderson to walk us through the high fashion and high drama is fashion stylist and editor Milton White. ** This episode originally aired May 8, 2025 Learn more about the sponsors of this May 6th episode: Greater Birmingham CVB Window Nation Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Anyone who still thinks happy hour means pitchers of watery beer is missing out on the incredible variety of food and drink specials available across our fine city in the early evenings. Contributor Margaret Littman joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to share her current favorite spots, from downtown rooftops with free valet to neighborhood bars offering n/a drinks, enough food to fill you up, and great community vibes. We’ve got your spring dining calendar covered! Election Day is TODAY! Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 5th episode: Greater Birmingham CVB Window Nation Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The development situation on the eastern bank of the Cumberland River remains confusing, so D7 Councilmember Emily Benedict joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to help us untangle it all. From the amendments Council recently passed putting boundaries on the scrapyard neighborhood (a.k.a. Wasioto Bend) to why the state rerouted $300 million of surplus convention center cash to the East Bank, we’re hashing out the future of Nashville’s most valuable patch of land. When all is said and done, will it still be East Nashville — or are we creating a second downtown? Election Day is TOMORROW! Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 4th episode: Greater Birmingham CVB Window Nation Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Wednesday, where he outlined his vision for this fiscal year in Nashville, including a grocery tax cut that might require some “belt-tightening.” Host Marie Cecile Anderson is joined by contributor Nicole Williams and executive producer Whitney Pastorek for this edition of the Friday News Roundup, where she also brings first-hand reporting of the major ICE enforcement activity taking place in Antioch at the same time as the mayor’s speech. Plus, NDOT responds to our Vision Zero reporting, and in our bonus segment, why some Starbucks workers are saying “Hell Naw” to Music City. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Starting tomorrow, it’s gonna be May! Host Marie Cecile Anderson, producer of sponsored content Anthony Luciani, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are teaming up to bring you this month’s guide to everything you can eat, hear, and do in Music City, from Tennessee Renaissance Festival turkey legs to a boot-scootin’ boogie. Today is the FINAL DAY of early voting for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The Music City Food & Wine Festival took place this past weekend, and we’re proud to bring you an exclusive live playback of our favorite panel from the event. Moderated by Anas Saba from Nashville Hidden Gems, “First Generation Flavors: Stories From Nashville’s Immigrant Kitchens” brought together Vivek Surti from Tailor, Ana Aguilar from Tantisimo, and Shivani Darsinos from Cafe Babu for a candid conversation about the cultural impact of building their renowned immigrant-owned restaurants in our city. Listen to our conversation with Anas Saba here. Listen to our conversation with Vivek Surti here.  Early voting is open now for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

We are in the final year of Nashville’s Vision Zero plan, which set a goal of zero fatalities on our roads. But pedestrian deaths are rising, bike lanes and traffic calming keep disappearing, and the forthcoming East Bank Boulevard is looking more and more like a highway. Host Marie Cecile Anderson sits down with Charlie Weingartner, chair of the Vision Zero Advisory Committee, to try and figure out what’s going on. Early voting is open now for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The Tennessee General Assembly adjourned for the year last Thursday, and we’re digging into what they actually got done. Joining host Marie Cecile Anderson is WPLN power and equity reporter Marianna Bacallao. She’ll walk us through the major themes of this year’s session, and how the Republican supermajority’s bills concerning immigration and control over our city could shape Nashville’s future. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Early voting is open now for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. If you enjoyed this interview with Supriya Sundaram, the director of growth marketing for TaskRabbit, learn more here.  Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

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

This week, Metro Council passed two bills — and a whole bunch of amendments — that will shape the future of the development planned for the scrapyard site for years to come. (BTW: It’s Wasioto Bend now.) On Today’s Friday News Roundup, host Marie Cecile Anderson, newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are walking through those amendments. They’re also wondering how we’re supposed to breathe when our air quality just got a F, and NES is chopping away at trees. But hey! At least we get to vent about the Super Bowl in our new bonus segment, Hell Naw. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Early voting is open now for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 24th episode: Taskrabbit Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter. Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The nights are still cool, and the mosquitoes haven’t yet reached lethal proportions, so why not seize this magical moment in time and go camping! Former Patagonia Nashville store manager Matt Heinly joins executive producer Whitney Pastorek to talk about the best spots to check out, where to grab gear without breaking the bank, and how to not get eaten by a bear. ** This episode originally aired May 27, 2025 Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Early voting is open now for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 22nd episode: Taskrabbit Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Have you ever driven past the exit for Ben Allen Road and wondered who that guy was? By popular demand, local historian and Nashville Scene columnist Betsy Phillips is back to tell host Marie Cecile Anderson the tale of this beloved wealthy eccentric and Mason who used to hold seances in his house at the turn of the century to terrorize his fellow elites for fun. Early voting is open now for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 22nd episode: Taskrabbit Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Looking for art classes or creative things to do in Nashville? Longtime Metro Public Schools art teacher Linda Anderson joins her daughter, host Marie Cecile Anderson, to share the best places around town to get crafty. From pottery studios and beginner-friendly classes to affordable art supplies and creative reuse centers, we break down where to go and how to get started, no experience necessary.  Vote for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 21st episode: Taskrabbit Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

As renovations begin at Fort Negley, we’re looking back at the history many Nashvillians were never taught. Host Marie Cecile Anderson is joined by historian Dr. Angela Sutton and African American Cultural Alliance CEO Jeneene Blackman to talk about What Happened to Bass Street?, their documentary uncovering a once thriving Black neighborhood that grew up around Fort Negley after the Civil War.  Vote for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 20th episode: Taskrabbit Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Could public financing get more Nashvillians involved in local elections? For the last decade, the City of Seattle has issued $100 in vouchers to every voter to donate to the candidate of their choice in municipal elections. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Seattle podcast host Jane C. Hu about how these Democracy Vouchers work, how many people are participating, and what the impact on local elections has been. Plus, is the “Seattle Freeze” a real thing? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

On today’s Friday News Roundup, host Marie Cecile Anderson is joined by newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury and contributor Nicole Williams to give a refresher on what’s on the Davidson Country primary ballot, plus the latest from the state legislature and why they keep coming after Nashville. We’re also digging into why the Nashville Downtown Partnership may be replacing their security contract, celebrating Nashville SC’s historic international win, and rounding up the best events for your weekend. And don’t miss our members-only segment Hell Naw, where we sound off on what’s really grinding our gears in Music City. Early voting for the Davidson County primary election has begun, now through April 30th! Polls open at 8 a.m. across multiple locations, so you can choose a site near your home, work, or wherever you’ll be. Vote for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 17th episode: Visit Tupelo Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Looking for the best coffee shops in Nashville? Local coffee expert LaKeithea Nicole of Brewing with LaKeithea on YouTube joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to share her go-to spots across the city — from top roasters and cozy work cafés to perfect date spots and people-watching patios. Plus, we break down Nashville’s latest coffee trends, which spots are worth the hype, and what the city’s coffee scene might still be missing. Nashville coffee spots we shout out in this episode: Bongo Java, Cafe Babu, Crema Coffee Roasters, Dawn Cafe, Dose Coffee, Forevermore, Frothy Monkey, The Horn, La La Land, Land of a Thousand Hills, Merge Coffee Bar, Neighborlily, The Pink Hermit, Retrograde Coffee, Steadfast Coffee, Stompin’ Grounds, Sump Coffee, The Well Coffeehouse Vote for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16th episode: Visit Tupelo Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Nashville’s first official planting day of the season is here, and we’re celebrating with Margaret Renkl. The author and New York Times columnist joins us to talk about her new children’s book, The Weedy Garden, and what it means to be a good neighbor to the natural world around us. From birdwatching to backyard gardening, Margaret shares how slowing down and paying attention to nature can make Nashville a happier, healthier place to live. Early voting for the Davidson County primary election starts today, April 15th! Polls open at 8 a.m. across multiple locations, so you can choose a site near your home, work, or wherever you’ll be. Vote for select county judges, school board members, county clerks, and more. Here’s the list of candidates. Here is a sample ballot for the May 5 election with early voting locations and hours. If you haven’t yet registered to vote, you cannot vote in the May 5 primary election — but you can still register for the state and federal primary election on Aug. 6. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 15th episode: Visit Tupelo Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Nashville is home to people who speak many different languages, but most city services still operate primarily in English. The Metro Human Relations Commission, alongside the mayor’s office, has launched a language assessment survey to better understand how the city can break down those barriers. Community organizer Shun Ahmed joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to discuss what’s working, what’s not, and why equal language access for all Nashvillians is more important than ever. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 14th episode: Visit Tupelo Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

In 2017, Elon Musk announced the Hyperloop, a 35 mile tunnel that would connect Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, carrying passengers at speeds up to 700 miles per hour. As you may have noticed, this never happened. But what can the rise and fall of this early Boring Company project teach Nashville about the Music City Loop that’s supposed to go under our streets? Tech journalist Matt Ribel recently reported on the project’s history for Washingtonian, and he joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to explain. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 13th episode:Visit Tupelo Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Nashvillians, what do you do when your night life starts to dwindle? Nightlife is a huge economic driver for cities, but city offices are often closed when those businesses need help. That’s why Portland is considering hiring a Night Mayor. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Portland podcast host Claudia Meza about what this new position would do, and if it is the answer to the pandemic’s enduring negative impact on walkability, small businesses, and nightlife in cities everywhere. Plus, should your city be weirder? Mentioned on the show: "Can a Night Mayor Revive Downtown Portland?" (City Cast Portland) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

If you were counting on that $26 Metro Water credit to cover your costs from the ice storm, think again: Metro Council rejected it at their meeting this week. On today’s Friday News Roundup, host Marie Cecile Anderson, newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are digging into that meeting as well as the happenings in the state legislature, where the voucher expansion saga rolls on. We’re also talking about how gas prices are impacting food trucks and nonprofits, a slate of incredible festivals and events for this weekend, and getting you prepped for the May 5 Davidson County primary election, because early voting starts next week. Guess who’s running again! Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10th episode:Centennial Park Conservancy Taskrabbit Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The Nashville Comedy Festival takes over town starting tonight, so we’re checking in with the folks behind local independent improv venue Third Coast Comedy Club to learn about their scene and why they’re kicking off their next act in East Nashville. Host Marie Cecile Anderson sits down with co-founders Luke Watson and Scott Field to hear about their new space, where Nashville ranks on the list of great comedy cities, and why they think all of us should say yes to an improv class. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 9th episode:United Way of Greater Nashville Taskrabbit Centennial Park Conservancy Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

If you’re headed up to Madison for the Amqui Station farmers market, kicking off April 19th, why not make a day of it? Acclaimed musician and local treasure Ellen Angelico joins host Marie Cecile Anderson with their guide to the best places to eat, get a haircut, and see lots of cats in the still-affordable area just north of East. And hey! Don’t miss Uncle Ellen’s Bro Country Card Game Video Game Beta Test at Vinyl Tap this Sunday, April 12, from 6-8 p.m. Check out our Overlook map of Ellen’s favorites here. ** This episode originally aired August 14, 2025. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 8th episode: Centennial Park Conservancy Taskrabbit United Way of Greater Nashville Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Meet Lauren Pinkston — a 7th generation Tennessean who’s running as an independent candidate for Tennessee’s open gubernatorial seat. She sits down with host Marie Cecile Anderson to talk about what’s propelling her run, and how her experience living internationally changed her lens on our state. We’re getting her take on affordability, immigration, data centers, and why she wants to “humanize” our legislature. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 7th episode: Centennial Park Conservancy Taskrabbit Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Tomorrow night, the Metro Council is considering new legislation that could make it easier to open new child care centers in Nashville, by eliminating distance requirements and speeding up the permit process. Host Marie Cecile Anderson sits down with Shetika Davis from Bridging the Gap Learning Center to learn why our real child care crisis might not be affordability, but accessibility.Learn more about the sponsors of this April 3rd episode: Centennial Park Conservancy Taskrabbit United Way of Greater Nashville Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Both Denver and Nashville wanted, but didn't get, a WNBA team. While more and more people are embracing women’s sports, Denver is only the second city in the U.S. to build a stadium specifically for women’s soccer. Will betting on women’s sports drive Denver’s economy or will Denverites be left paying the price for another stadium? City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Denver podcast host Bree Davies about why Denver has invested so much into having sports downtown, how Denver has capitalized on repurposing old industrial spaces, and how bad traffic gets when all your sports are downtown. Plus, is it better to have a Mayor with or without aims for a greater political office? Mentioned on the show: The $tadium Game: Inside the lucrative world of Colorado’s pro sports stadiums [⁠The Denver Post⁠] Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? ⁠Email David now! ⁠ We’re also on Instagram: ⁠@yourcitycouldbebetter⁠ Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? ⁠Check out our options⁠.

Massive tech conglomerate Oracle is supposed to be building its worldwide HQ on Nashville’s East Bank, but this week, they laid off thousands of staffers — including some of our neighbors. On today’s Friday News Roundup, host Marie Cecile Anderson is joined by newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to dig into why at least one state rep is calling for immediate accountability. Plus, state Republicans are conflicted over voucher expansion, and at least two of them want to move our local elections back a year; great meals and activities for Passover and Easter; and what was that whole Kid Rock helicopter situation about? Please share the Metro Human Relations Commission language access survey far and wide! You can find it here.Learn more about the sponsors of this April 3rd episode: Freely Fest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

As the weather warms up, families are looking to get outside. So where are the best playgrounds in Nashville — and can they hold up to the scrutiny of a busy mom? Host Marie Cecile Anderson welcomes contributor Amelia Edelman and newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury to run down their favorite play spots in town, and tell us what Nashville really needs to make our playground scene great.Learn more about the sponsors of this April 2nd episode: Freely Fest United Way of Greater Nashville Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Get ready for great thrift shopping and outdoor festivals this month in Nashville! Host Marie Cecile Anderson, newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are saluting April in today’s monthly guide, from farmers markets to concerts at great indie venues, and even a Ladies Only Vinyl DJ Class.Learn more about the sponsors of this April 1st episode: Freely Fest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Today is International Transgender Day of Visibility, and who better to share Nashville’s untold queer history than historian and founder of Nashville Queer History, Sarah Calise? Joined by host Marie Cecile Anderson, they celebrate the lives of trans and queer Nashvillians who lived authentically and the ways their courage and joy paved the way for others. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 31st episode: Freely Fest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The Nashville area is already home to about a third of the AI data centers in the state, and more are headed our way — including a new facility in East Nashville. With other cities around the country rejecting data centers in their communities, what should Nashville be watching for? Mark Williams, founding co-director of the Vanderbilt AI Law Lab, joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to walk us through the pros and cons of this technology, and its place in our future. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 30th episode:Freely Fest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

More affordable housing is needed in places like Nashville. Some cities, however, are doing better than others at meeting this need. Austin, Texas, for example, is building more affordable housing than any other American city right now — 50% more, by some measures, than the second most successful city. However, this fast-growing city is also seeing a shortage in housing that middle- and lower-income residents can afford. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Austin podcast host Nikki DaVaughn about this paradox, the city’s affordable housing successes, and where Austin’s still falling short. Plus, how far is too far to walk to a neighbor’s house? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

The latest Vanderbilt poll was released yesterday, revealing that 56% of Nashville residents think the city is on the wrong track. On today’s Friday News Roundup, Host Marie Cecile Anderson is joined by contributor Nicole Williams and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to analyze the vibes. Plus: What’s with the CVS ad blitz? What bills died in the TN General Assembly this week? What does Cameron Sexton want to do with our money? And would owning a pet raccoon make it all feel better? Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode:Political Gabfest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

While we love our local brick n’ mortar restaurants, it could be argued that the heart of Nashville’s food scene is our incredible pop-up restaurants and food trucks. Comedian Eddie Ortiz joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to reveal his faves, from Lao BBQ to birria. Don’t forget to slide into his DMs if you’re wondering what to eat tonight!  Here is a list of the establishments discussed in this episode:@saapsaapbbq @connyandjohnny @taqueriaelgym_nashville @foxdenizakayaa @badluckburgerclub Taqueria El Dolar  @itzaphillything @bangkok_belly @maiz_dlvida @locustnashville @aytantisimo @billssandwichpalace Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode: United Way of Greater Nashville Political Gabfest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

The Nashville Humane Association is celebrating 80 years of rescuing animals this year. To celebrate, we’re revisiting a conversation with NHA community engagement director Taylor Spreitler. She joins host Marie Cecile Anderson (proud parent of an NHA rescue pup) to talk about their rescue process, why they’re pushing back against breed restrictions, and how our current economic uncertainty is impacting their work. ** This episode originally aired Aug. 27, 2025. If you enjoyed this interview with VITA Senior Manager, Bonnie Bowles, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode: Political Gabfest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

When Chef Sterling Wright left the reality show “Hell’s Kitchen” in 2014, he could have gone to work in any restaurant around the world. Instead, he came home to Nashville’s J.C. Napier Homes, launched Joy Kitchen, and started teaching the kids in the neighborhood how to cook. Host Marie Cecile Anderson sits down with Chef Sterling, alongside two of his young prodigies — Xavier Winston and Marianna Cokley — to learn more about Joy Kitchen, the culinary incubator Cooking the Wright Way, and what the program has taught them about confidence and community. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 24th episode: United Way of Greater Nashville Political Gabfest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Nashville was built on country music, and country music was built on drinking songs. Now that more people are choosing sobriety, what are we to do? Host Marie Cecile Anderson is joined by Joe Hudak, Rolling Stone senior music editor and host of the Nashville Now podcast, to discuss his recent RS article about the genre’s sober reckoning — and how the ripple effects could impact Nashville’s songwriters, music venues, and our country star-studded downtown binge-drinking tourism complex. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 23rd episode: ⁠Political Gabfest Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

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

Is 12 South just a mall now? Yesterday’s Tennessean headline had us laughing, while also pondering the future of our friendly neighborhood-turned-upscale shopping center. On today’s Friday News Roundup, host Marie Cecile Anderson, producer Daniel Sumstine, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are digging into a lot of development stories, including new NASCAR news, our new Live Nation venue, and the hilarious future of the improperly demolished former Groove record shop. Plus, an update on last week’s Dem on Dem violence, and HEY! Register to vote! Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

We all seek out delicious sandwiches, even when we make delicious sandwiches for a living. Host Marie Cecile Anderson sits down with Jason Eskridge, owner of Music City Sandwich Co. (and former host of Sunday Night Soul) to get his take on the best places in Nashville to get two pieces of bread with fillings between them. Remember: Hunger is not a game. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Late last summer, the Nashville Department of Transportation removed the benches lining Korean Vets Boulevard … but Pastor Robin L. Owen just happened to have one in her car. Since then, she and a team of volunteers have built dozens of benches to place at bus stops across the city, part of a nationwide movement; locally, the project is called “To Nashville, With Love.” She joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to talk about why these community-built benches matter, and share her reaction to last week’s news that NDOT was removing their benches, too. The next bench building party is this Saturday, March 21, at Riverside Commons in East Nashville. Volunteers are invited to join at 9 a.m. to build benches, or around noon if they’d like to drive a rescued bench back to its home. If you’d like to donate to the bench building project, you can do so here. If you enjoyed this interview with Cheekwood's Senior VP of Museum Affairs, Sarah Sperling, and artist Karen LaMonte, learn more here. Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Four regions, 16 destinations, one winner! Our favorite travel influencer, Andrea Giordano from BNA Cheap Flights, joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek for a little March Madness, travel edition. We’ve got a full bracket of picks for the best warm-weather destinations from Nashville this summer. Who will cut down the net in our big dance?  Get more from City Cast Nashville when you become a City Cast Nashville Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm/nashville Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our City Cast Nashville newsletter.  Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.