
City Cast DC
959 episodes — Page 6 of 20
Progressives Prep for Budget Battle, Streetcar Failure, and Restaurant Reality Checks
DC officials are about to start hashing out the budget. Today, we’re wondering if progressives have the muscle to push back. Plus: The end of the H Street Streetcar, and the problem with Gordon Ramsay’s visit to DC. And in a member’s only fourth section, we’re looking at the downturn in spending on going out to eat, and whether it is yet another sign of economic apocalypse for our city. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 30th episode: Mosaic Theater District Bridges Williamstown Theatre Festival Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Your Guide to June 2025 in DC
June in DC can be tricky, there’s a lot going on, and the FOMO is real. But don’t stress! City Cast’s Julia Karon and Ashe Durban are here with your guide to the best events, from films to parties, so you can make the most of the month. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast community. For even more tips on how to make the most of June in DC, check out Hey DC’s take on what to do this month. If you enjoyed today's interview with our sponsor District Bridges, check out the summer bucket list challenge here. Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. If you enjoyed today's interview with District Bridges' Director of Storytelling and Marketing, Anna Claire, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 29th episode: Mosaic Theater District Bridges Williamstown Theatre Festival Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
DC's 2026 Budget Reflects DOGE's Impact
With fewer job postings being listed and people eating at home more – DC is on edge money-wise! It’s had us all anxiously awaiting more information about DC’s 2026 budget. Now, Mayor Bowser has finally unveiled her proposal. WAMU’s Alex Koma is here to tell us what’s in it and what’s not. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 28th episode: Mosaic Theater District Bridges Williamstown Theatre Festival Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
What Trump's Military Parade Will Cost DC
There is a massive military parade planned for DC on June 14. Though the city is built for mass gatherings, this kind of military display is actually rare — and comes with a lot of challenges, like whether DC’s streets can handle the weight of modern tanks. Cuynet Dil from Axios has been covering it and he’s here to tell us what he knows. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 27th episode: Mosaic Theater District Bridges Williamstown Theatre Festival Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Shooting Near Jewish Museum, Metro Tap to Ride, and DC's First Mahjong Parlor
We’re talking about the shocking shooting of a pair of Israeli embassy employees and what it means for DC. We’re talking about more big changes coming to Metro. Plus, how DC ranks in the latest rating of park systems, Mahjongg in Chinatown, and — for members only! — some of our personal hot takes about DC. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 23rd episode: Folger Shakespeare Library PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Mosaic Theater Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Are Tenant Protections Making DC Rent Higher?
For decades, DC’s laws have been built to give tenants some muscle against landlords who might try to sell their buildings. But now that’s changing — with proposals before the DC Council that would shrink TOPA, the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act. In the old days, the politics of this would have been pretty clear, but nowadays there’s a twist, since some progressives have come to worry more about the supply of housing than the fate of individual tenants. Emilia Calma from the DC Policy Center has studied the issue and she’s here to explain. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 22nd episode: Folger Shakespeare Library PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
The Best Local Wines to Beat the Tariffs
It’s late spring, which means it’s the perfect time to get outdoors and head to a vineyard. But this year, there’s something else in the air: the threat of tariffs driving up the cost of imported wine. Dave McIntyre from the Washington Post is here to tell us which local wineries are worth the drive, and how to not break the bank. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 21st episode: Folger Shakespeare Library PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Best DC Summer Trips for Under $150
Memorial Day is right around the corner! If you’re watching your budget but still dreaming of that summer getaway, City Cast contributor Tim Ebner is here with the best summer trips you can take from D.C. for around $150. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 20th episode: Folger Shakespeare Library PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Dupont Circle’s Controversial New Public Plaza
Construction is expected to begin this fall to “deck over” a busy section of Connecticut Avenue NW in Dupont Circle — transforming it into a vibrant new public plaza. But some residents and local businesses say they’re not getting enough information about how the project will affect them. NBC4 Transportation Reporter Adam Tuss breaks down what this all means for Dupont Circle — and the city beyond. We’ll be talking to DDOT about the details of the project in a couple weeks. So if you have questions or concerns you'd like us to raise, give us a call at 202-642-2654. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 19th episode: Folger Shakespeare Library PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Will Bowser Get a 4th Term? Plus, Stadium Updates, and RFK Jr’s Rock Creek Plunge
We’re talking about the prospect of a fourth term for Muriel Bowser, a poll of where the public stands on the RFK Stadium site, and also some news about the other RFK — Junior, who took an odd dip in Rock Creek this week. And today our fourth topic is by our sponsor PaintCare, and if you’re looking to tackle your spring cleaning we’ve got you! Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 16th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Williamstown Theatre Festival Folger Shakespeare Library PaintCare Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Why DC Keeps Flooding And How To Make It Stop
Do you feel like you’re hearing a lot of reports about flooding in DC these days? You’re not alone. A lot of the city sits atop what used to be creeks and streams. Charlotte Taylor Fryar wrote a whole book about Washington and water. It’s called “Potomac Fever”. Charlotte is here to explain the water that sits beneath your sidewalk. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 15th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Williamstown Theatre Festival Folger Shakespeare Library Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Everything to Know about WorldPride 2025
WorldPride, the largest global LGBTQ+ celebration, is coming to DC. The festivities start this weekend, with the headline events from May 28 to June 8. The Washington Blade’s Joe Reberkenny is here with what you need to know from heightened travel concerns for trans visitors to increased security city-wide. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 14th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Williamstown Theatre Festival Folger Shakespeare Library Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
1 in 5 Residents Consider Leaving DC
The Trump administration is already deeply impacting DC’s way of life. And now, a new Washington Post poll says a huge portion of the local population is considering leaving DC altogether as a result. The Post’s Olivia George is here to put voices behind the data. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 13th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Williamstown Theatre Festival Folger Shakespeare Library Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Why Trump Picked a Fox News Icon as DC's Top Prosecutor
At the end of last week, there was a big switcheroo in an office that’s really important to local DC: The US Attorney, which in our city also acts as the local prosecutor. Donald Trump abruptly pulled the nomination of Ed Martin, the January 6 firebrand who’d been the most controversial appointee in memory. But the replacement was also quite a shock: Jeanine Pirro, the bomb-throwing Fox News personality. What does this mean for us? NBC4’s Ted Oberg covers the office and he’s here to explain. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 12th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Williamstown Theatre Festival Folger Shakespeare Library Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
ICE at DC Restaurants, Tourism Struggles, and Nats Park Taste Test
We’re talking about ICE raids at restaurants, we’re talking about what plummeting international tourism means for DC, and we’ve got some results from City Cast’s highly unscientific Nats Park taste test. Plus, our members-only fourth topic: The strange story of the LGBT exhibit the Smithsonian just canceled. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 9th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Gala Theatre Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Is Bowser's New Growth Plan Too Pro-Development?
DC’s Mayor is slowly rolling out her budget — and it’s all about trying to brace the city for the unprecedented Trump-era challenges that are hitting Washington’s biggest employer, the government. For Muriel Bowser, the answer seems to be giving business a freer hand to do what it wants. Until recently, that would have been a nonstarter for the DC Council. Axios’ Cuneyt Dil is here to explain why it could be different this time. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 8th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Mayor Bowser Wants to Repeal DC’s Tipped Minimum Wage ... Again
Mayor Bowser announced Monday that she wants to repeal initiative 82, the hugely popular DC plan to eliminate the tipped minimum wage. Three out of four voters were in favor in 2022, so how do people feel about the mayor potentially overriding them? Jessica Sidman from Washingtonian is here to explain why this is happening now and how all the stakeholders feel about it. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. If you enjoyed today's interview with District Bridges' Executive Director, Brianne Dornbush, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 7th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Best Free Things to Do in DC This Summer
Let's face it - a lot of us in the DMV area are tightening our belts in preparation for an uncertain economic climate. BUT that doesn't mean you can't still have a good time, especially with the nice weather returning. Be sure to mark your calendars because we have your guide for fun FREE things to do in DC this summer. https://dc.citycast.fm/dc-life-hacks/the-best-washington-dc-birthday-freebies-discounts-deals https://dc.citycast.fm/best/the-best-free-workouts-in-dc Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 6th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Gala Theatre Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
The Conversation No One Wants to Have About Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton
DC’s Congressional Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton has an impressive 35 year track record of being an accomplished fighter for DC. But at 87, she’s also the second oldest member of Congress. Washingtonian reporter Ike Allen spent time with Eleanor Holmes Norton while investigating a complicated question — does Eleanor Holmes Norton still have what it takes to fight for DC? Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for just $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 5th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Council vs RFK Stadium Deal, Ed Martin vs Weed, and an Exclusive MAGA Club
We’re talking about the RFK deal, Ed Martin’s moves against a DC medical-marijuana dispensary, and an ultra-pricey new private club for Trump allies. Plus, our special members-only fourth topic: The investigation of the DCA crash. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 2nd episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST District Bridges Gala Theatre Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden Tour Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Your Guide to May 2025 in DC
May is one of the BEST times in DC. We have that narrow window of perfect springtime weather. There’s a lot going on and people actually seem…excited to be out and about. To help you stave off FOMO, the City Cast DC gang has your guide to making the most of May in DC, including a Hong Kong-style night market, a flower festival, and camping recommendations. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast community. For even more tips on how to make the most of May in DC, check out Hey DC’s take on what to do this month. City Cast DC’s guide to May is made possible by our awesome sponsor, District Bridges. And get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 1st episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST District Bridges Gala Theatre Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden TourInterested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
How Trump’s First 100 Days Changed DC
Donald Trump has been in office for 100 days. And with all the big changes his administration has brought to the DMV, it’s easy for the actual impact of it to get lost in the deluge of stories. The City Cast team is here to break down what the first 100 days of his administration has meant for DC. Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 30th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST District Bridges Gala Theatre Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden TourInterested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
The $3.7B Deal to Revive RFK Stadium
The Washington Commanders announced plans to build a stadium on the RFK site, and a whole neighborhood around it. But there are still a few hurdles to jump before this stadium actually becomes a thing. Axios’ Cuneyt Dil was at the announcement, and he’s here to tell us if we should be excited or skeptical. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 29th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. District Bridges Gala Theatre Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden Tour Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
The Local LGBTQ Backlash with National Implications
Last week, the Supreme Court heard arguments in a local case involving a group of conservative Montgomery County parents who want to be able to yank their kids out of classes where they talk about LGBTQ themes. It could set a precedent that frightens a lot of locals. Nicole Asbury, who’s been covering it for the Washington Post, is here to tell us about it. Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 28th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST District Bridges Gala Theatre Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden Tour Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
DC's Hated Top Prosecutor, Local War on Encampments, and Kristi Noem's Stolen Purse
The Washington Post’s Marc Fisher joins our roundup to talk about the controversies around DC’s US Attorney nominee, the city’s efforts to dismantle homeless encampments, and the very weird theft of Kristi Noem’s purse. Plus, a members-only fourth section about the surprising local history of Toys R Us, soon to be a major motion picture. Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 25th episode: Roda - Use code POD50 for $50 off your first service of $200+. Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Adams Morgan PorchFest Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Your Guide to Porchfest in DC
It’s almost one of the most fun times of the year — porchfest season! Petworth’s is this Saturday, Adams Morgan’s is next week. City Cast’s own Mark Kulkosky and Priyanka Tilve are Porchfest pros, and they’re here with everything there is to know to do this years festivals right. Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 24th episode: Roda - Use code POD50 for $50 off your first service of $200+. Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Adams Morgan PorchFest Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Why Everyone's Mad About Rock Creek Parkway
If you’ve driven on Rock Creek Parkway, then you know it has those reversible lanes - it’s actually had that traffic pattern since the 1930s. But now the National Parks Service wants to change up the roads and people both for and against the change are all yelling pretty loudly about it. The Washington Post’s Rachel Weiner has been following the controversy. Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 23rd episode: Roda - Use code POD50 for $50 off your first service of $200+. Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Adams Morgan PorchFest Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
DC’s Most Underrated Brunch Spots
We love our brunches in DC. It’s kind of our thing here. But what about brunches that might be a little off the beaten path? Cornelia Poku of the popular food blog Black Girl Explore DC is here to share her menu of the best DC brunches. Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 22nd episode: Roda - Use code POD50 for $50 off your first service of $200+. Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Adams Morgan PorchFest Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Is the New Tipped Minimum Wage Killing DC's Restaurants?
Are DC’s restaurants in trouble thanks to DOGE cuts? According to a new report in the Washington Post, a startling number of places have closed. But Tim Carman, one of the authors of the report, says it’s a bit more complicated than just Trump-era chaos. He’s here to explain what’s going on — and what it means for your next meal. Get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 21st episode: Roda - Use code POD50 for $50 off your first service of $200+. Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Adams Morgan PorchFest
DC Close to $3B RFK Deal, New Bus Map, and Local ASMR
We’re talking about the big Commanders stadium news, some serious changes coming to Metro, and a podcaster who reads DC menus to help put you to sleep. Plus, members get a bonus segment today, about the Kennedy Center going full patriotism. In case you missed our episode with sports economist JC Bradbury, listen to learn whether stadiums are worth what they cost cities. And here’s the new WMATA bus map, which goes live June 29. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 18th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Alliance Francaise Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
The Best DC Day Off, For Every Type of Washingtonian
With everything going on in DC, maybe you’re in need of a mental health day. Whether you’re playing hooky from work, school, or endless job apps, there’s actually a ton to do in DC on a weekday when you just need some me time. In this rerun from last year, the City Cast team plan out the ultimate mental health day for cinephiles, sports buffs, and every type of Washingtonian in between. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 15th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Alliance Francaise Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Bowser's Loophole For Avoiding $1.1B Cuts from Congress
Yesterday, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced spending freezes and city cuts because of a massive crater that Congress created in DC’s budget and then never fixed. There’s a bill in the House that could immediately resolve this budget crisis, but the lawmakers have stalled on voting, and now they’re on break until April 28. Local reporter Martin Austermuhle is here to tell us how the cuts could affect life in DC right now. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Alliance Francaise Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
DC’s Best Parks for Kids
With the weather improving, it’s a great time to explore DC’s many great parks to entertain little ones! City Cast DC contributor and dad, Jacob Fenston, is on a quest to visit all 697 parks in the District and he’s here to tell us the best ones to take your kids to. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 15th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Alliance Francaise Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
What RFK Stadium Could Cost DC
There hasn’t even been a vote on a new Washington commanders stadium in DC, but a lot of folks already talk about it as a done deal. JC Bradbury is an expert on the economics of stadiums, and he thinks they’re almost never worth it. Bradbury is here to walk us through his research and what he thinks it ought to mean for DC’s looming decisions about RFK. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 14th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Alliance Francaise Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Trump’s Parade, GOP & DC Activists' Common Ground, and Hidden Cash
It’s our Friday News Roundup! We’re talking about Trump’s birthday military parade, Congress targeting a couple of DC laws where they might actually have some local allies, and an epic scavenger hunt. Plus in our member’s-only fourth topic, we’ll talk through the way the new war on globalism is affecting DC’s local culture. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 11th episode: PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
DC Prides Itself on the Smithsonian. Now, Trump's Changing It.
The Smithsonian is front and center in one of Donald Trump’s most controversial executive orders. But what does his campaign against “inappropriate ideology” mean on a day to day basis for the museums — and for the city where they’re a big part of the cultural mix? Manuel Roig-Franzia from the Washington Post is here to give us the lay of the land. If you’ve been personally affected by Trumps tariffs, we want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected] or leave a message at 202-642-2654. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10th episode: PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Do Streateries Still Belong in DC?
Spring has sprung, which means streateries are back! But do people really use them and like them? Senior producer Julia Karron talked to business owners and food journalists to get to the bottom of it. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 9th episode: PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
How Trump’s Policies Are Devastating DC Schools
The Trump administration is pressuring public schools to abandon any programming related to what they call DEI, or else those schools will lose federal funding. And earlier this month, there was ICE activity at HD Cooke Elementary School in Adams Morgan. Scott Goldstein, the Executive Director of EmpowerEd, is here to share how schools are handling these threats and what it all means for local students. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 8th episode: PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Will Driverless Cars Make DC More Dangerous?
WayMo, Google’s driverless taxi service company, says they want to expand to DC next. But are they safe? Would they work with DC’s many road quirks? We talked to Andrew Hawkins, who covers transportation at The Verge, to find out what driverless taxis would mean for the city. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 7th episode: PaintCare The Pew Charitable Trusts Nace Law Group Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
DC Council Shuts Out Public, Zuckerberg’s New DC Home, and April Fools’
The DC Council passed a new law to keep more meetings secret, and Mark Zuckerberg joined a whole bunch of oligarchs buying houses in D.C. Plus: the best April Fools articles in D.C. this year. And for members, a special bonus topic: Trayon White, the expelled member of the DC Council, is running to win back his old seat. Can they re-expel him? NBC4’s Mark Segraves joins the team to discuss. Want the full episode? Become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. And make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC for more news from around the city. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 4th episode: District Bridges Awesome Con Mosaic Theater Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
The Craziest Buildings DC Never Built
What are the coolest buildings in DC? Chances are your list doesn’t include the Lincoln Pyramid, the Washington Pedestal, or something called Dolphin America — precisely because they never got built. We sat down with architectural historian Martin Moeller last year to discuss the big ideas that, sometimes luckily, shaped our city by never getting off the drawing board. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 3rd episode: District Bridges Awesome Con Mosaic Theater Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Why Won’t The House Just Pass DC’s Budget Fix?
Mayor Bowser was scheduled to unveil her 2026 budget today but she’s delayed that while waiting for the House to pass its budget fix bill, restoring $1B to DC’s budget. Trump has signaled his support for the bill — so what’s the holdup? The Washington Post’s Meagan Flynn explains where we're at with DC’s budget and what’s next. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 2nd episode: District Bridges Awesome Con Mosaic Theater Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Your Guide to April 2025 in DC
They say April showers bring May flowers. The City Cast squad is here to give their top tips and recommendations, from getting your winter coats dry cleaned and stored for the winter, to hitting up a Smithsonian exhibit throughout the month. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a whole guide for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to our City Cast DC community. Once you’re done listening, check out our newsletter article for even more tips about how to make the most of April in D.C. City Cast DC’s guide to April is made possible by our awesome sponsor, District Bridges. We're also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast DC. If you enjoyed today's interview with District Bridges' Community Navigator, Edward Wycliff, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 1st episode: District Bridges Awesome Con Mosaic Theater Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Trump's New Executive Orders Come for DC
A new executive order by Donald Trump targets D.C. — but doesn’t, at least not yet, take it over. Mark Segraves from Channel 4 is here to explain the president’s new “"D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force", and why the city leadership feels like it doesn’t have much choice other than staying mum. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 31st episode: District Bridges Awesome Con Mosaic Theater Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Can DC Outlast Trump? Plus, Tesla Vandalism and Nats Park Deals
We’re talking about DC’s economic plans to move beyond the federal government. Also, some people who allegedly wrote mean graffiti on Teslas are being investigated for hate crimes. And we’re talking about how to get the most out of a trip to Nats Park. Plus, stick around for an exciting member’s-only fourth segment about local DC’s endearing ability to memeify national news events like this week’s Signal scandal. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 28th episode: The Pew Charitable Trusts Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
What It Would Take To Eliminate Crime in DC
A new plan would consolidate the District's competing violence interruption programs under a single agency after a bribery scandal last year. But just what are these programs? The University of Maryland’s Thomas Abt has spent years studying violence prevention and he’s here to explain how these efforts can and can’t nudge violence down. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 27th episode: The Pew Charitable Trusts Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
The Secret to Beating DC’s Summer Camp Rush
A reminder for the parents out there: if you are wanting to get your kid into summer camp, it’s time to make some plans. City Cast contributor Austin Graff is here to explain why March is a critical time for summer camp planning and everything you need to know to do it right. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 26th episode: The Pew Charitable Trusts Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Ranking DC's E-Bikes Best to Worst
It’s spring in DC, which means it’s e-bike season. Last year, we systematically tested four different e-bike brands — Capital Bikeshare, Lime, Spin, and Veo — to figure which ones are worth the price. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode: The Pew Charitable Trusts Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
How Safe Are Immigrants in the DMV Right Now?
The DMV is front and center in the Trump administration’s campaign to deport undocumented immigrants. Atenas Burrola Estrada of the Amica Center for Immigrant Rights is here to tell us what it means for the region and what people need to know about their rights in this legal landscape. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 24th episode: The Pew Charitable Trusts Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Purple Line Delays, USIP v DOGE Showdown, and Community Stew. Plus, a Members Bonus
We’re talking about why the Purple Line is taking so long to arrive. We’re talking about the takeover of DC institutions — and whether it's cool for Washington audiences to boo JD Vance. Plus, a story about stew that warmed our hearts. And this week there’s a fourth topic for members only: Is the DMV economy headed for a crater? Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $8 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 21st episode: Urban Pace The Pew Charitable Trusts Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.