City Cast Philly

We are less than a month into the second Donald Trump presidential term, but it’s been impactful and chaotic. So how are local Democrats – Senator John Fetterman, Mayor Cherelle Parker, and Governor Josh Shapiro – handling Trump 2.0? Because while Republicans completely control the federal government, in Philly the Democrats are completely in charge. So Trenae Nuri asks political scientist, Brian Rosenwald, to look at the different ways that Fetterman, Parker, and Shapiro are dealing with Trump. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here

As the city gears up for Super Bowl LIX, host Trenae Nuri talks about superstitions, the biggest storylines, and what could be in store for the Eagles down in Louisiana. Joining Trenae for this Eagles pep rally is O.J. Spivey, sports correspondent for The Philadelphia Tribune, and Johnny Goodtimes, quizzo host here in Philly and co-owner of Shibe Vintage Sports. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170 Go Birds! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here

A medical jet exploded and crashed just a minute after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport on Friday night, leaving all six on board, including an 11-year-old girl, dead. One person in a car near Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard also died, and 22 were reported injured. Trenae Nuri, City Cast Philly host, and Matt Katz, City Cast Philly executive producer, bring you the latest information on the tragedy and the stories of Philadelphians trying to save their neighbors. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here

It’s the Friday News Roundup! The team is talking about the Trump administration mandates that have touched Philly, like the aggressive immigration enforcement that may have led to ICE arrests this week and the federal funding freeze that was ultimately rescinded. Also: Kevin Hart announced a new TV series set in Philly and the team prepares for the Eagles’ Super Bowl rematch with the Kansas City Chiefs. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz and producer Abby Fritz. Go Birds. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Temple student dies after falling from light pole during Eagles celebrations in Philadelphia 8 injured after driver strikes crowd of celebrating Eagles fans in Spring Garden neighborhood Philly migrants skip work, school, and shopping amid fears of ICE enforcement Philly restaurant owners say ICE showed up without warrant 'because it's a Puerto Rican restaurant' Medicaid payment systems restored in Pa. as Trump administration rescinds federal funding freeze memo BET+ Orders First Animated Series ‘Lil Kev,’ Based on Creator Kevin Hart’s Childhood; Wanda Sykes, Deon Cole Also Star We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly. We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly. Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

February is packed with events this month, from Lunar New Year celebrations in the streets of Chinatown, Black History Month exhibits under $20 to ideas to celebrate Valentine’s Day. In this episode, you’ll hear Abby’s recommendations of local tattoo artists offering love themed flash sales, Trenae’s idea of a progressive dinner in West Philly, plus free activities for the kids to do. And if you’re cheering on the Birds in the Super Bowl, you’ll love Matt’s watch party idea and Siani’s picks for where to get Eagles merch. For even more tips on how to make the most of February in Philly, check out Hey Philly’s take on what to do this 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 Philly community. We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s our Wednesday politics show. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Lauren Vidas, our new politics contributor. Lauren works in government relations in the city and writes the City Hall Roll Call newsletter for the Committee of Seventy. They talk about what issues council is taking on now that they’re back in session for 2025, how the city’s preparing to protect immigrants and other marginalized groups during the Trump Administration, and why Philadelphia’s Democratic Party won’t endorse District Attorney Larry Krasner. We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here

Take it from us, Philly is a great place to live – the joy at the Linc and on Broad Street and at Cottman and Frankford Avenues on Sunday night after the Eagles’ NFC championship victory is evidence of that. Today Trenae Nuri talks about heading to the Super Bowl and then replays a show about how it may be wonderful to live here (especially when we’re winning), finding an affordable place to rent is a growing challenge. Our rent is too damn high – and getting higher. So Trenae talks with Justin Forte, realtor for KW Empower & ForteLiving, about where to find the best rentals, what questions to ask, what you should know before signing your lease agreement, and how to avoid scams. Please take our listener survey! Are you a podcast listener? We could really use your help! We’re doing a survey to learn more about podcast listeners. Even if you don’t listen to City Cast, we still want to hear from you! Please take the survey — it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor, and you’ll also get the chance to win a $250 Visa gift card. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts about THE EAGLES GOING TO THE SUPER BOWL? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Bennington College, a small college in Vermont, took over the University of the Arts’ dance program after the Philly university closed without warning last year. Why? And how? Host Trenae Nuri talks with Laura Walker, president of Bennington College, and Donna Faye Burchfield, director of the dance program, about how this tiny college hundreds of miles away saved a storied dance program in Center City. We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here

It’s the Friday News Roundup! The team is talking about the new court opening in Kensington, how President Trump just let Philly’s top Proud Boy out of prison, and Mayor Parker’s spelling slip-up. Plus, if the Eagles win Sunday we get a Super Bowl. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Matt Katz, executive producer of City Cast Philly, and Siani Colon, newsletter editor of Hey Philly. Go Birds! Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: New ‘wellness court’ in Kensington for drug users launches Wednesday, as police prepare to ramp up drug enforcement Trump commutes sentences of Jan. 6 rioters, including former Philadelphia Proud Boys leader ICE has been freed to make arrests at churches. More immigrants took sanctuary in Philadelphia than anywhere else. Mayor Parker’s administration says Philly’s sanctuary city policy remains despite threats from Trump We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly. We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly. Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Philadelphia School Superintendent Tony B. Watlington sits down for his first interview on City Cast Philly. He talks about student safety, especially given the recent killing of a student on his way to school; the new process for closing schools, which has not gone well in the past; and how the district is beginning to implement the mayor’s plan for year-round schools. We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly. We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly. Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Representative Rick Krajewski, who represents West and Southwest Philly, says now is the time to legalize cannabis. For our weekly Wednesday politics show, Host Trenae Nuri talks with Krajewski about his proposed bill to legalize cannabis, create state-run dispensaries, and repair harms done by the war on drugs. He also shares his thoughts on how the University of Pennsylvania, his alma mater, handled pro-Palestinian protests. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170 Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here

It’s the first year of The Tasties, an award ceremony celebrating Philly’s food scene. There’s categories like Restaurant of the Year, Next Level Neighborhood Spot, and Best Emotional Support Sandwich. The Tasties come from the group behind the Delicious City Philly podcast. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Eli Kulp, co-host of the Delicious City Philly podcast and host of The Chef Radio Podcast, about The Tasties and his extraordinary personal journey. To get tickets to The Tasties: https://www.deliciouscitypodcast.com/the-tasties Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here

It’s the Friday News Roundup! The team is talking about the new district attorney race challenger and how Philadelphians feel after the Sixers arena switch-up. Also, a Philly incident that got national attention in 2018 spurred Starbucks to change its open door policy – that policy is now trashed! Host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz and producer Abby Fritz. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Former Philly judge announces run for district attorney, setting up likely Democratic primary challenge Former Philly judge campaigning to replace Larry Krasner as DA Starbucks ditches open-door policy spurred by arrests at Philly store in 2018 Buy or leave, Starbucks tells nonpaying customers in policy reversal Here’s how some Philly high school students built a library from scratch. ‘Kids just kept coming, renewing books.’ Billionaires Dunk on Mayor & Council in Sixers Arena Deal Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Everyone loves a fighter’s story, especially a fighter from Philly. Host Trenae Nuri talks with David Feldman, founder of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, which comes to Philly on Jan. 25. David’s a former pro boxer with a Rocky-esque life story who’s now turning bare-knuckle fighting into a global empire. Get your tickets to the BKFC Knucklemania V here Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

In our weekly politics episode, host Trenae Nuri talks with Ernest Owens, political writer for Philadelphia Magazine, who was the first reporter to break the news that the Sixers shockingly scrapped a plan to build an arena downtown next to Chinatown. They discuss what this says about who’s in control of the city – billionaires, not elected officials – and the political implications of it all. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly. We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly. Have a question or comment about the arena switcheroo? Call or text us at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

“Universal Basic Guys,” the animated and extremely Philly show on Fox, just wrapped up its first season – and it’s been renewed for Season 2. Host Trenae Nuri revisits a conversation from October with creators Adam and Craig Malamut, two brothers and self-taught animators who are bringing the culture and accents of the Philly region to a national audience. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our daily newsletter, Hey Philly. We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly. Have a question or comment? Call or text us at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Podcasts are everywhere, and Philly’s ecosystem for podcasts is thriving. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Alex Lewis, creative director and co-founder of Rowhome Productions, about how he’s running a Philly-based audio production company and building a community of audio creatives. Come hang with City Cast Philly and other podcasters! We’re co-sponsoring an event with Rowhome Productions and the Association of Independents in Radio on Thursday, Jan. 16, 6 p.m., at Solar Myth. Trenae is moderating a panel, “The State of Philly Podcasting,” and there’ll be tomato pie. The event is free. RSVP here. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Instagram @citycastphilly. Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! We’re talking about why tenants at Locust Towers still don’t have heat, now Philly police are no longer arresting kids for low-level crimes, a new drug treatment center in the Northeast, and the playoff game between the Eagles and the Green Bay Packers. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Matt Katz, executive producer of City Cast Philly and Abby Fritz, City Cast Philly producer. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: West Philly tenants say they’ve had no heat — and no answers – for months Philly’s new drug rehabilitation center will open this month as part of Mayor Parker’s Kensington plan Snow, not even a whole inch, is expected Saturday morning in Philly Philadelphia police won't arrest kids for some low-level crimes starting next week. Here's what to know. Early numbers suggest a slight decline in juvenile crime in Philadelphia in 2024 For more Philly news, sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. Follow us on Instagram @citycastphilly. Thoughts on local news or The Birds? Leave us a text or voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

New year, new you! If you’re looking for ways to prioritize your wellness and develop new self-care practices in 2025, we’ve got you. We’re revisiting a conversation host Trenae Nuri had with Imani Harris, a local lifestyle content creator on TikTok and Instagram, about the best spas, yoga classes, and wellness experiences located right here in Philly. Here’s a list of wellness destinations mentioned in this episode: Joseph Anthony Spa and Salon (multiple locations) AWAY Spa at the W Hotel (Center City) The Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel (Center City) Heyday (Rittenhouse) DTXFY (Manayunk) Nirvana Wellness Medspa (Northern Liberties) Soul Haum Yoga (Brewerytown) Muse Yoga & Fitness (Fairmount) Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

This week in our politics episode, host Trenae Nuri chats with Pat Loeb, City Hall Bureau Chief for KYW, about Mayor Cherelle Parker’s second year in office and big policy objectives she has for 2025. They also talk about the mayor and city council dynamics, and possible opponents running against District Attorney Larry Krasner in the primary election. Listen to Pat’s full interview with Mayor Parker here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The city’s homicide rate dropped 35% in 2024 compared to the previous year. And shootings have dropped by almost half in the last two years. But are Philadelphians safer? Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Ellie Rushing, law enforcement reporter at The Inquirer, and Mensah Dean, Philadelphia staff writer at The Trace, about the stories behind these numbers and what their work means to them. Thoughts on the murder rate and the stories behind these deaths? Leave us a voicemail or text us: 215-259-8170. For more Philly news, you gotta sign up for our morning newsletter: Hey Philly. We’re also on Instagram @citycastphilly. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

On November 2nd, 2014, Carlesha Gaither Freeland was abducted off a street in Germantown at knifepoint, shoved into a car and held against her will for three days. It was all caught on camera! Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Claudia Vargas, investigative reporter at NBC10, about her new true-crime documentary, ‘Finding Carlesha’, detailing this gripping Philadelphia story. You can stream ‘Finding Carlesha’ on Peacock and YouTube. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today the team is talking about the possibility of snow next week and how some renters have been living without heat. And while Philly is feeling good about the city’s homicide rate dropping more than 30% last year, the city is heartbroken over the fact that a 14-year-old is struggling to recover after being shot in the face at the Christmas Village. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz and producer Abby Fritz. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Arctic air blast to bring frigid weather to Philly region in early 2025 More than 100 Philly rentals don’t have heat during the holidays, records show Philly saw a historic drop in murders in 2024. What changed? The 14-year-old shot in the face in Dilworth Park lost an eye and barely survived, but is improving each day, his mother said Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel speaks about the decline in gun violence New Year babies: Meet the first Philadelphia-area babies born in 2025 Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. We’re also on Instagram @citycastphilly. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Let’s start this year off right by getting in the fast lane at the Philadelphia Auto Show, trying lunch deals during Center City District’s Restaurant Week, and seeing the 1,000-pound butter sculpture at the Pennsylvania Farm Show. And for even more tips on how to make the most of January in Philly, check out Hey Philly’s take on what to do this 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 Philly community. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Justyn Myers is known for antics: Back-flipping into a flooded Vine Street Expressway, turning a dumpster into a pool, and leading one of the most innovative and outrageous Mummers brigades out there – The Lobster Club. In advance of the Mummers Parade on New Year’s Day, host Trenae Nuri sat down with Myers to get the story behind these antics and a preview of the Lobster Club’s Mummers performance. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Feeling that post/mid-holiday slump? What better way to get out of the doldrums than by playing along with our Pennsylvania state symbols quiz? Over the years, we have adopted all sorts of plants, animals, and even a drink to represent our Commonwealth, but not all of these symbols and the stories behind them are common knowledge. Former Hey Philly newsletter editor Asha Prihar put the City Cast Philly team to the test over the summer, and we’re bringing this game back so you can do the same with your friends and family. (And special thanks to Sophia Lo, City Cast Pittsburgh producer, for sharing their research and putting together many of these questions.) Here's the ruffed grouse recipe we mentioned in the episode. In case you’re sick of turkey or ham? Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Step aside Wisconsin, the Keystone state is coming for your cheese crown! Pennsylvania is home to 5,000 dairy farms, and the Philly area is chock full of artisan cheese shops and creameries. Today, we’re revisiting a conversation host Trenae Nuri had with Tenaya Darlington — also known as Madame Fromage — about what makes Philly a dairy destination, and how to create the ultimate local cheeseboard. Darlington is the cheese curator at Tria, as well as the author of “Di Bruno Bros. House of Cheese” and “Madame Fromage’s Adventures in Cheese.” Here’s a list of the local cheese shops/markets mentioned in this episode: Birchrun Hills Farm Perrystead Dairy Merion Park Cheese Co. Clark Park Farmers Market Headhouse Farmers Market Valley Milkhouse Conebella Farm Di Bruno Bros. Downtown Cheese Weavers Way Co-Op Tria Talula’s Garden Third Wheel Cheese Co. Want to hear about our sister city Pittsburgh’s cheese scene? Check out their episode with Pgh’s Cheese Queen here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today the team is talking about the big Philly stories that caught their attention this year. They also cover a recently launched city-run data website, Philly Stat 360, the City Council full vote on the 76ers arena, how Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel deployed more law enforcement at Christmas Village after three teens were shot last week, and more. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz to break all this down. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Mayor Parker’s New Website Has Us Feeling … Optimistic? Spate of shootings, including incident at Christmas Village, are ‘not the norm,’ Mayor Parker and law enforcement officials say Philadelphia police boost security in Center City after violent weekend Scoop: Parker helped advance Wanda Sykes' bid for a Philly WNBA team Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Spring Garden brewery Triple Bottom Brewing is churning out very Philly beers (like Pilsadelphia Pilsner and Lawn Chair Parking Spot West Coast IPA.) Also, this company is training Philadelphians who need a second chance after incarceration or house insecurity with a 16-week apprenticeship program. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Tess Hart, co-founder and CEO of Triple Bottom Brewing, and Chenoah McDonald, soon-to-be graduate of the program, about building a community around beer. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

On Thursday, City Council will vote to officially allow the Sixers to build a new arena in Market East, right next to Chinatown. There’s still many questions like how did Mayor Cherelle Parker muscle this deal through, and why did City Council fail to negotiate to get more money from the Sixers for the community? Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Denise Clay-Murray, co-host of Philadelphia Hall Monitor, to break this down and talk about other storylines to follow in Philly politics for 2025. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Don’t worry, there’s still time for you to get the perfect holiday gifts. Let your favorite local podcast help you with your holiday anxiety. Host Trenae Nuri talks with City Cast Philly executive producer Matt Katz, producer Abby Fritz, and newsletter editor Ava Wojnowski about their favorite places to shop locally. Here are all the gift ideas mentioned in the show: Renew Head Spa Philadelphia Flower Show Bird Gang LeSean “Shady” McCoy Kentucky Bourbon South Fellini Philadelphia Runner Cheese and Wine Monthly Membership Candlelight Concert Caphe Roaster Vault & Vine Phully Rooted Goldbelly Le Souk Market Project HOMEmade Movement Callowhill Armed With Good Intentions Books and Blooms booked. Grand National Tour: Kendrick Lamar and SZA Tyler, The Creator - CHROMAKOPIA: THE WORLD TOUR Big Ass Stadium Tour Nick Castellanos Phillies Headband Shibe Vintage Sports Urban Exchange Project Carry the Difference Duffle Bag Youth Astronaut Helmet Animal Umbrellas What’s Next Lifesize Game Philly Onesies Drawn Jawn Coloring Book Philadelphia Zoo Membership Elite Sports Factory Moon + Arrow Philadelphia Diamond Company The Philadelphia Experiences Collection can be purchased at Independence Visitor Center, LOVE Park Visitor Center, Parkway Visitor Center, City Hall Visitor Center until December 24th. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Every year restaurants in Philly push the boundaries of culinary excellence — and 2024 was no exception. Host Trenae Nuri sat down with The Infatuation’s senior editor Alison Kessler and senior staff writer Candis McLean to talk about their favorite restaurants of the year and which ones excite them for 2025. Read more about Candis and Alison’s favorite restaurants on The Infatuation. Restaurants mentioned in the episode: Provenance CJ & D's Trenton Tomato Pies El Mictlan Amy's Pastelillos Nepali Momo Kitchen Royal Tavern Little Walter’s Middle Child Pearl & Mary My Loup Jaffa Bar Little Water Best Cannoli Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today the team is talking about the City Council vote on the 76ers arena, which came after multiple delays. Also, MOVE members ask for newly identified remains of the Africa family to be returned as well as their Osage Avenue home. To break all this down, host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz. Plus, they cover some good news about Kylie Kelce’s new podcast “Not Gonna Lie.” Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: ‘It is criminal’: Africa family wants MOVE bombing victims’ remains returned and Osage Avenue home back Penn says it has found more human remains from the MOVE bombing at its museum Kylie Kelce Knocked Joe Rogan Off the Top Podcast Slot, In Just One Episode Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

John Chin, executive director of the Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation, grew up in Chinatown. He’s spent his career preserving, promoting and protecting this neighborhood. Now, he’s the face of the opposition to the proposed 76ers arena slated to move in next door. Host Trenae Nuri talks with John about why he says he’s not against the idea of an arena – he’s just against it hurting Chinatown. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Wednesday politics roundup! First-year City Councilmember Rue Landau is anticipating the changes that could come to Philly in the new year. Host Trenae Nuri talked with the councilmember about hearings she's planning to address how to protect residents from policies that might come out of the new Trump administration. They also talk about how she's one of just a few councilmembers publicly opposed to the proposed 76ers arena in Center City. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Your SEPTA Key card does more than just get you on your train, bus, or trolley. It comes with a load of discounts to restaurants, museums, and shops. Host Trenae Nuri and Abby Fritz, City Cast Philly producer, dish on the ways you can save just by flashing your SEPTA Key card. Here are the discounted spots referenced in the show: Federal Donuts Greene Street Coffee Company The Franklin Fountain and The Franklin Fountain Ice Cream Bar Kismet Bagels Campo’s Hatch & Coop The Franklin Institute Philadelphia Museum of Art Museum of the American Revolution The Academy of Natural Sciences Wilma Theater Arden Theater Beyond the Bell Tours Betsy Ross House Ghost Tour of Philadelphia Philadelphia Zoo Ten Pennies Florist SEPTA Store A Novel Idea New Era Phillies Team Store Rothman Orthopedics Ice Rink- Christmas Village Find out about more SEPTA perks here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the perfect time of year to get cozy and watch a movie…a Philly movie. Host Trenae Nuri talks to Len Webb and Vincent Williams from The MICHEAUX MISSION podcast as they delve into a list of essential Philly films, analyze the ways that actors portray fictional Philadelphians, and discuss how Hollywood portrays our city. Films mentioned in this episode: Creed Trading Places Philadelphia A Night Catches Us The Sixth Sense Unbreakable Rocky Concrete Cowboys 12 Monkeys Brotherly Love Beloved Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jones Dairy Farm Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! We talk about why City Council delayed the vote on the Sixers arena proposal and how a new law bans stopping, even for a minute, in bike lanes. Also, Caroline LeCount gets a street named after her, finally, and Philly has a first snow, already. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Matt Katz, executive producer of City Cast Philly. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Philly may get its first (barely) measurable snowfall of the season Thursday Philly City Council postpones vote on the proposed 76ers arena as negotiations continue Drivers can no longer stop, stand or park in bike lanes in Philly Philly Mayor signs bill to rename Taney Street to honor civil rights champion Why Philly Residents Want to Rename Taney Street Listen to Your Guide to December 2024 in Philly. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X & Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

You bring a date to some coffee shops, and a laptop to others. Some coffee shops offer fantastic meals, and others sell you…sneakers? Since Philly has such a variety of independent coffee shops, we made a guide to help you sort through them. Host Trenae Nuri sat down with executive producer Matt Katz and producer Abby Fritz at Mr. Rabbit Coffee in Fitler Square to break this all down. Coffee shops mentioned in the episode: Mr. Rabbit Last Drop Satellite Coffee Càphê Roasters Jezabel’s Cafe Arterial Coffee iMUNCH Cafe Tela’s Market and Kitchen Rival Bros Coffee Red Hook Coffee and Tea Alif Brew and Mini Mart Elixir Coffee THANK YOU THANK YOU Persimmon Coffee OX Coffee Enswell Two Persons Coffee High Point Cafe Encanto Kicks & Coffee Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee and Books The Monkey & The Elephant Herman’s Coffee vernick coffee bar Gleaner’s Cafe Caffé Ida Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The powerful sound of The Crossing Choir — a multiple-Grammy award winning chamber choir based in Philadelphia — just hit a new record: The 25-member group received its 10th consecutive nomination this year. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Donald Nally, conductor; Nate Barnett, tenor; and Chelsea Lyons, alto and the group’s community engagement manager, about their latest album Ochre, their soulful sound, and the secret to winning big in the music industry. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Bagels, omelettes and home fries seem to be standard breakfast items, but more Philly restaurants are adding breakfast tacos to their menus. We’re revisiting a conversation with host Trenae Nuri and Jenn Ladd, food reporter at the Inquirer, about what breakfast tacos are, why they deserve the hype they’ve been getting, and some of the best breakfast taco spots in Philly. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s starting to get colder, so why not warm up near the fire pits at Dilworth Park, sip mulled wine in the Christmas Village, or get cozy with a bowl of spaghetti rusticana (and a side of opera) at Victor’s Cafe? In this episode you’ll hear our best tips for enjoying December in Philly, like eating sweets from Beyonce’s baker and shucking oysters for just a dollar. And for even more tips on how to make the most of December in Philly, check out Hey Philly’s take on what to do this 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 Philly community. City Cast Philly is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like BetterHelp. And we’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Generations of Philadelphia children have walked through The Franklin Institute’s 18-foot-high Giant Heart. The heart was recently renovated as the centerpiece of a new $8.5 million Body Odyssey exhibit featuring three rooms of high-tech interactive activities. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Matt Katz, executive producer of City Cast Philly, and four kids who they both know very well. Sadie and Reuben are Matt’s kids. Nabi and Yahara are Trenae’s kids. And each has an opinion about the exhibit. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts about the Giant Heart or anything else? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X & Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Rocky is a beloved character in Philly and beyond. Millions of people come to visit the Rocky statue and run up the steps at the Art Museum each year. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Kathryn Ott Lovell, president & CEO of Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation, who’s behind the first-ever RockyFest. This festival is eight days of fun, from a bus tour, yappy hour to date night ideas and a movie marathon! Read more about RockyFest here. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The hottest Christmas album in America is as Philly as it comes. “A Philly Special Christmas Party” from the group known as The Philly Specials features Eagles greats Lane Johnson, Jordan Mailata, and the recently retired Jason Kelce, plus guest tracks from Boyz II Men and Stevie Nicks. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with album producer Charlie Hall, the drummer from Philly's own War on Drugs. They talk about why Philly is the perfect inspiration for Christmas music and how a song about a stoned Santa driving down Broad and Pattison is both climbing the holiday charts AND raising money for Philly kids. Need more Philly news? Sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. Have thoughts about The Philly Specials or why Philly in so special? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. We’re also on X & Instagram: Follow us @citycastphilly. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! We’re talking about the hearings on the proposed Center City basketball arena, the deal that averted a SEPTA strike, and the questions surrounding the shooting death of Robert Jones by an off-duty cop. We also have news on behind-the-scenes drama with the Sixers and a loud karaoke taxi driving around town that’s bringing both joy and distress. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Matt Katz, executive producer of City Cast Philly, and producer Abby Fritz. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Chinatown advocates tell City Council 76ers arena would push neighborhood 'toward the precipice' City Council needs to take the Sixers arena proposal seriously | Editorial Man shot and killed by off-duty Philly homicide detective was unarmed, sources and family’s lawyer say A karaoke taxi has come to town but some want the plug pulled on the Center City attraction SEPTA strike averted in last-minute deal with transit workers union How is SEPTA funded? Inside the Philadelphia transit agency's budget – and what's behind the "death spiral" Shapiro says he won’t let SEPTA ‘fail’ as struggling transit agency warns of looming cuts Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Has the weather been throwing you off lately? Between the historic lack of rain and mild fall temperatures, it’s hard to imagine what the climate will look like in the coming months. So Host Trenae Nuri sat down with Tony Wood, a reporter for the Inquirer who focuses on weather, to get a breakdown of what’s causing these conditions and what to expect next. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Luray Caverns If you enjoyed today's interview with Luray Caverns Director of Marketing and PR, Bill Huffman, learn more here." Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Last week we talked about criticisms of the city’s ambitious initiative to clean every block in every neighborhood. Today we sit down with Casey Kuklick, deputy director of the office that runs the citywide clean-up, about the trash-clearing efforts now and going forward. Kuklick reveals that some of us are getting twice-weekly trash pick-ups! Have complaints or concerns (or compliments) about trash in the city? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X & Instagram. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

What’s up with all the dog poop around the city? Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Shaunice Ajiwe, associate editor at Philadelphia Magazine, about her article: "How Did Philly Dog Culture Get So Out of Control?" They wonder why dogs are now in the grocery stores, and they ask how pooches, pups, and dog owners can live together in harmony in the City of Brotherly Love. We expect you probably have some thoughts one way or another about today's show. Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Let us know if we can use your name on the air. Want some more Philly news? Sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re on X & Instagram. Follow us @citycastphilly. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Thanksgiving dinner is delicious, sure, but it can be a hassle to prep and cook. So if you’re prioritizing ease this Thanksgiving, and therefore you want someone else to do the cooking, there are plenty of Philly restaurants where you can make a reservation. Host Trenae Nuri spoke with Maddy Sweitzer-Lammé, a local food reporter and founder of Tiny Table Tours, about the best places to dine on the 28th. Pro tip: Get those reservations ASAP! Restaurants mentioned in the episode: Dim Sum House The Twisted Tail Bridget Foy's Fork Parc a. kitchen Le Cavalier Sapori Trattoria Italiana Assembly Rooftop Lounge Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly. We’re also on X and Instagram! Follow us @citycastphilly. Have a question or just want to share some thoughts with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.