City Cast Philly

The looming threat of a teachers’ strike and upcoming school closures are just two challenges facing the School District of Philadelphia. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Carly Sitrin, bureau chief of Chalkbeat Philadelphia, to find out which neighborhood schools might close and which might get year-round classes. To attend a district meeting on the closures and get more information, go here: https://www.philasd.org/operations/ Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel Framebridge Scribe Video Center Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

There’s been continued ICE arrests in Philly and around the region. The Northern Liberties Night Market scheduled for July 23rd is canceled. And provisional ballots get a redesign. Host Trenae Nuri, producer Abby Fritz, and Hey Philly newsletter editor Siani Colon discuss these stories and our readers’ comments on Philly pretzels, run clubs, and queer-friendly sports organizations in the city. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: South Philly block rattled after ICE sought one migrant with criminal charges and arrested four others 14 undocumented immigrants arrested in ICE raid at Norristown, Pennsylvania, supermarket Germantown mom wants out of Philly after ICE deported her husband to Belize The Northern Liberties Night Market is canceled after the costs of required police patrols and sanitation services have more than doubled Department of State Introduces Redesigned, User-Friendly Provisional Ballot Envelopes SEPTA to cut bus routes day before school begins, unless new funding is found What To Know About ICE in Philly Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Scribe Video Center Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Money is tight these days, but your love life shouldn’t suffer! We’re listening back to a list of creative, fun and cheap date ideas all under $25 that host Trenae Nuri and Abby Fritz, City Cast Philly producer, came up with to impress that special someone. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Scribe Video Center Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

City Councilmember Mark Squilla’s district stretches from Chinatown to South Philly and up to the River Wards. He’s joining host Trenae Nuri on our weekly politics episode to talk about the latest on the projects and controversies in his district, from Market East to SEPTA funding, from the Chinatown Stitch to a new bus station. There’s more good news here than you might expect. More Philly news & events in your inbox comes in our daily newsletter, Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this July 16th episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Scribe Video Center Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We know some of you listen to City Cast Philly (and other podcasts) while you run. Maybe you’re running right now! Or maybe you want to start running and even try a race? If so, now’s the time to start training for the Philadelphia Marathon (or Half Marathon) later this year. Executive producer Matt Katz sits down with Michelle Quirk – a run coach, podcaster, and primary care doctor at CHOP – to get tips and tricks for moving your running game in Philly to the next level. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this July 15th episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Scribe Video Center Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Host Trenae Nuri talks with Marquise Davon Richards – assistant director of Upward Bound Math & Sciences at Temple University and the host of the "Keepin' It a Bean"podcast, and Josh Okyne, a Philadelphia high school student, about why higher education matters and what it takes to support Black boys in college and beyond. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Scribe Video Center Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday News Roundup! We're talking about how the city is starting to clean-up from the “Parker Piles” of trash that accumulated during the eight-day District Council 33 strike. Our attention now turns to the fate of SEPTA, which is in Harrisburg’s hands. We also take a sobering look at the recent mass shootings in the city. And as always, we dish on what we’re up to this coming weekend. Executive producer Matt Katz is joined by producer Abby Fritz and Hey Philly newsletter editor Siani Colón. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Why the Strike Ended & When Your Trash Is Getting Picked Up How much trash piled up in Philly during the DC 33 strike? Penn workers authorize strike, demanding higher salaries After months of declining gun violence, shootings surge in Philly South Philly lounge ordered to shutter after 8 hurt in mass shooting I met Azir Harris after he was paralyzed in a shooting in 2018. Gunfire early Monday claimed his life. What you need to know about the city work stoppage Waymo to test, but not offer, self-driving cars in Philly this summer It’s Officially Live Aid Week in Philadelphia Check out more cooking classes in Philly here. To throw out your trash before garbage pick-up begins Monday, find your six Sanitation Convenience Centers here. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

The strike is over, Philly, and now the clean-up begins. The District Council 33 strike – the Great Garbage Strike of 2025 – lasted eight days and led to a work stoppage that resulted in closed libraries, a shortage of 911 operators, and, most noticeably, no residential trash pick-up. Those piles of trash – dubbed “Parker Piles” for Mayor Cherelle Parker – will now get picked up, eventually. Executive producer Matt Katz and producer Abby Fritz tell you everything you need to know about how the agreement was struck between the union and the city, and what it all means for your garbage. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

As the strike by District Council 33 stretches into a second week, the garbage situation in the city is only getting worse. Since residential garbage pick-up is suspended while sanitation and other city workers hit the picket lines, the city has set up dozens of dumpsters around the city. But does taking your own trash to a city dumpster make you a scab? That’s an argument union supporters are making. Matt Katz, executive producer of City Cast Philly, sits down with Danny Bauder, president of Philadelphia Council AFL-CIO, which counts DC 33 as a member, to ask about scabs, contract negotiations, and when (and how) this strike will finally end. This episode was released on July 9 at 3 a.m., just before District Council 33 and the city announced a preliminary agreement to end the strike. Get more Philly news & event listings in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us here: 215-259-8170 We’re on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Summer in Philly means your neighbors or co-workers are down the Shore. Whether it’s for the beaches, boardwalks, or one of those parties that Jason Kelce has been drinking at, Philadelphians young and old look forward to any excuse to get down to Shore. So it’s the perfect time to listen back to a conversation between host Trenae Nuri and Jen Miller, a Jersey Shore expert, about where and how to vacation by the salty ocean waters. What’s your Jersey Shore town? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We're taking a hike! The team is trying out a Philadelphia Inquirer tool that helps you figure out which Philly-area hikes fit your needs. Host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, and Hey Philly newsletter editor Siani Colón get recommendations from two Inquirer reporters who have hiked all over our region – Frank Kummer and Jason Nark. Listen for recommendations for your next hiking adventures. Check out the Inquirer's Take A Hike tool here. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Eastern State Penitentiary Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Trenae Nuri and all 12 other City Cast podcast hosts (from Austin, Boise, Chicago, DC, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Pittsburgh, Portland, and Salt Lake City) compete head-to-head in a high-stakes showdown to answer the question that’s been burning up our company-wide Slack for weeks: which city is the best for a summer weekend trip? From naked bike rides to ‘the country’s best farmers market,’ pickle festivals to Elvis impersonators driving pink convertibles, our hosts are bringing the best of the best of what their city has to offer. Did your city win? Take our interactive quiz to see which city best fits YOUR vibe! Learn more about the sponsors of this July 3rd episode: Eastern State Penitentiary Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group

More than 9,000 city workers from the District Council 33 union went on strike Tuesday — and that means there’s no residential trash pick-up until the union comes to terms on a contract with Mayor Cherelle Parker. Striking city workers keep the city running in a variety of ways, so in addition to sanitation the work stoppage means longer wait times for 9-1-1, earlier closing times for rec centers, and so much more. Host Trenae Nuri talks the latest on the strikers’ demands with executive producer Matt Katz and producer Abby Fritz. Plus, news on Congressman Dwight Evans’ retirement and the ongoing budget crisis that could slash SEPTA service. Plus some good news: The WNBA is coming to Philly in 2030, and we’ve curated a list of potential team names. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter:⁠ Hey Philly⁠ Call or text us: ⁠215-259-8170⁠ We’re also on Instagram:⁠ @citycastphilly⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠Eastern State Penitentiary⁠ ⁠Rothman Orthopaedic Institute⁠ ⁠Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group⁠ Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠

Philly’s bringing the heat, so we’ve curated a list of ways to have fun and beat these sizzling summer temperatures. In this episode you’ll hear about a new casual outdoor eating experience in Fishtown, the fairy festival in Roxborough, dancing on the Delaware River, and a burlesque cabaret show in Callowhill. For even more tips on how to make the most of July 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 Eastern State Penitentiary, Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, and Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We all have been feeling the sweltering heat and humidity. The average summer temperatures in Philly have creeped up over the last few years, and that affects our health in surprising ways. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Tony Wood, the Philadelphia Inquirer’s weather reporter, about his new book, “Something in the Air: A Four-Season Guide to Weather and Health,” about Philly’s role in the history of climate science research. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Eastern State Penitentiary Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It’s the Friday News Roundup. This week, we’re talking about the city agreeing to pay $3 million to the family of Thomas “TJ” Siderio, the 12-year-old boy fatally shot in the back by a Philly cop, why artists canceled their performances at World Cafe Live and several Center City bars pull out of SIPS. Plus, after two years, there still isn’t a Greyhound bus station. Host Trenae Nuri, producer Abby Fritz and Hey Philly newsletter editor Siani Colon dish about these topics, the happiest places in the city and ways to stay cool during a heatwave. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: City agrees to pay $3 million to family of 12-year-old boy shot and killed by cop Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest ‘Philly’s a sporting town, isn’t it?’ Club World Cup has introduced fans from around the world to our city 1 arrested, 7 ejected at Wydad AC-Juventus FIFA Club World Cup match after fans spotted setting off smoke bombs Phillies fans say it’s suddenly ‘impossible’ to get an Uber from Citizens Bank Park How rowdy crowds on one stretch of Sansom Street caused 3 bars to pull out of Center City Sips Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Eastern State Penitentiary Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Philadelphia Canoe Club Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We head over to Sharswood—just off Ridge Avenue and Master Street—to explore a new affordable housing development prioritizing its youngest neighbors. Play is no longer limited to parks and playgrounds. That’s because of a collaboration between community members and the Playful Learning Landscapes Action Network to design interactive spaces that are opportunities for learning. Host Trenae Nuri joined the celebration on the International Day of Play to meet the people behind this innovative project. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this June 26th episode: Fitler Club Eastern State Penitentiary Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Philadelphia Canoe Club Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

In our weekly politics episode, we discuss how with major funding sources like the National Endowment for the Arts and Humanities facing cuts, many cultural organizations around the region are feeling the strain. City Council recently approved $5 million for the Philadelphia Cultural Fund in the 2026 fiscal year budget – a big win for the arts and cultural sector. In Harrisburg, Pennsylvania state lawmakers are going through budget negotiations; will they support our region’s creative community? Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Patricia Wilson Aden, president and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, about this funding. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Eastern State Penitentiary Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Philadelphia Canoe Club Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Summer in Philly brings some of the best weekly deals on your favorite cocktails. SIPS in Center City is a popular Wednesday happy hour. There's also Passyunk Passegiata on Thursdays in East Passyunk, and Fishtown Taps offers drink discounts on Tuesdays. But you don’t have to drink alcohol to have fun. We’re bringing back this conversation with Nikki Graziano, Bar Palmina's owner and bartender, about the drinks she’s shaking up and why she opened a nonalcoholic bar in Philly. This episode mentions sexual assault and suicide, so please take care when listening. If you or anyone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, you can always call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. There's help available 24 hours a day. This episode originally aired on March 17th, 2025. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Eastern State Penitentiary Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Philadelphia Canoe Club Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philly loves its dogs, but there’s a plan to make some parks, playgrounds and rec centers “animal-free zones.” City Council passed a bill that would fine owners $2,000 if their dog is in a public park – whether on a leash or not. Host Trenae Nuri, who isn’t a dog owner, speaks with Johnny Goodtimes, a Philly dog owner and City Cast Philly contributor, about city canines, dog parks, and whether politicians are barking up the wrong tree. Check out these eight dog parks. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Fitler Club Eastern State Penitentiary Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Philadelphia Canoe Club Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

City Cast hosts are on the pulse of what’s happening in our communities. So Trenae Nuri and all 12 other hosts sat down with City Cast CEO David Plotz to talk about creative local problem solving that might work in your hometown too and to commiserate about stressors affecting most of our cities, from unaffordable housing to bike lanes. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 20th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group

In our weekly politics episode, we’re talking about the near unanimous passing of the $6.8 billion city budget that includes eliminating a tax break for small businesses and green-lighting new housing initiatives. Host Trenae Nuri and City Cast Philly political contributor Lauren Vidas break down the winners and losers in this budget and the political relationships that Mayor Cherelle Parker is navigating. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

When you think of ice cream innovation, 19th-century Philadelphians might not come to mind—but they should. We listen back to the sweet and surprising history of Philadelphia-style ice cream with host Trenae Nuri and food historian Sarah Lohman, who is host of City Cast Las Vegas. They dig into how women and Black culinary professionals revolutionized the ice cream-making process—and why their contributions have been largely overlooked. Get ready to rethink what you know about America’s favorite dessert. Check out Sarah’s latest book, “Endangered Eating: America's Vanishing Foods.” We also mentioned the Netflix series “High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America” based on the book by Jessica B. Harris. Where do you eat ice cream in Philly? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

SEPTA is in trouble. The transit agency faces a $213 million budget deficit, and without an infusion of funds from the state in the next two weeks, service will be cut by 45% and fares will increase more than 20%. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz break down what’s at stake for our region if SEPTA has massive cuts, what lawmakers are saying, and what you can do right now to make your voices heard about this. For more information on SEPTA’s fiscal history and what you can do to voice your concerns, check out our article in the Hey Philly newsletter here. How will SEPTA cuts affect you? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Jeff D'Ambrosio Auto Group Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday news roundup! We’re talking about the $6.8 billion city budget approved by Council, the anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ rally this weekend, a new poll taking the pulse of Philly, and a slumlord’s vacant West Philly apartment building that was deliberately set on fire. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz dig into all this (and into our weekend plans, of course). Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Final Budget, HOME Bills, Ready for Final Passage Pew Poll: Philadelphians Concerned About Public Safety and Financial Well-Being No Kings protests, Army parade to hit Philly streets this weekend Army 250 - Philadelphia Road closures, rallies and routes: What to know about Philly’s June 14 ‘No Kings’ protest Four-alarm fire at West Philly apartments tied to landlord Phil Pulley was set deliberately, police say Mayor Cherelle Parker silent on Los Angeles protests Business tax cuts and housing bonds: Mayor Cherelle Parker and Philly Council reach $6.8 billion deal for the next city budget Pew Poll: Philadelphians Concerned About Public Safety and Financial Well-Being Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Happy Father’s Day, Philadelphia! On today’s show we have a roundtable with three Philly dads talking about fatherhood in 2025 and how to be a great dad in Philadelphia. City Cast Philly Executive Producer Matt Katz, father of two and creator of the Inconceivable Truth podcast, is joined by Joel Austin, father of seven and founder of Daddy University, and Joe Gidjunis, father of one and host of Grown Up Dad on PBS. For information about Daddy’s University 13th Annual Daddy Daughter Dance on June 14 & Dad’s At Play Family Engagement Event on July 26: https://daddyuniv.com/17yearanniversary/events/ For information on Grown Up Dad’s Dadcathalon on June 14: https://grownup.dad/dadcathlon To watch Grown Up Dad on PBS: https://www.pbs.org/video/changing-role-of-fatherhood-Xs6K5o/ Dads, call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

City council will vote tomorrow on Mayor Cherelle Parker’s plan to borrow $800 million to create and preserve housing in Philly. This is one of her biggest priorities for the city. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz break down a conversation with Jon Geeting, the engagement director at the political action committee Philadelphia 3.0, about the challenges of maintaining and building homes — and the price tag that comes with it. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

The City Cast Philly team spent a day at the Art Star Craft Bazaar at the Cherry Street Pier on Mother’s Day weekend talking to Philadelphians about Philly. We asked what you love about Philly – and what you don’t. In today’s show we’re sharing some of the smart, funny, and real feelings you all have about this city. Philly, you are raw and beautiful and eloquent and thought-provoking and good! Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Philadelphia Rugby Football Club has been hitting the pitch since the 1970s, making it one of the oldest teams in the country. It is now championing the push to make rugby a welcoming space for all. When producer Abby Fritz isn’t helping make City Cast Philly, she plays for PRFC. She sat down with teammates May Shuter, Rachel Miller, and Linnae Allen to discuss how current federal policies targeting transgender athletes impact the trans-inclusive team. Check out PRFC's website to learn more about the team and attend upcoming games. Find out about other Philly sports clubs open to queer and non-binary athletes in our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday news roundup! We’re talking about SEPTA buses on fire in the Nicetown-Tioga neighborhood, more details on the transit agency’s funding troubles, and Center City residents who filed a bike lane lawsuit. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz dig into all this (and our weekend plans). Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Josh Shapiro and top Democrats say SEPTA and mass transit funding is a priority, but won’t say whether they’ll hold up the budget over it Judge says contractor’s bribing of Amtrak manager with $320,000 in luxury watches, vacations represents a ‘tear in the fabric of society’ Residents suing Philadelphia to stop bike lane upgrades in Center City neighborhood Coyote sightings at Wissahickon Valley Park prompt reminder that it’s ‘a wild place’ Thoughts on bike lanes, coyotes, or SEPTA Funding? Holler at us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We’re chatting about how we shop in (and maybe out of) the city for the best deals on groceries. Some on the City Cast Philly team are bargain hunters and others just love niche markets and farm-to-table products. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz, producer Abby Fritz and Hey Philly newsletter editor Siani Colon to let you in on grocery shopping hacks – like where to find the best eggs, fresh produce, and cheap snacks. Also: Grocery store karaoke?!? Where do you shop? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

This week’s politics episode takes you into the Pen & Pencil Club, Philadelphia’s press club since 1892. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by NBC10’s Lauren Mayk, KYW Newsradio’s Pat Loeb, The Inquirer’s Ellie Rushing, and Cherri Gregg, co-host of WHYY’s Studio 2. They break down last month's primary election for district attorney, what incumbent Larry Krasner’s landslide win in the Democratic primary means, and how Philadelphians are thinking and talking about public safety in the city. Feeling safe in the city, or not? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

June marks the start of wedding season, and what better place to kick things off than at McGillin’s Olde Ale House — Philly’s oldest bar and maybe the best place to find love. Tucked down an alleyway in Center City, this historic pub has been the backdrop for countless love stories – 200 couples and counting. We’re revisiting a conversation our host, Trenae Nuri, had with Chris Mullins Jr., the owner of McGillin's, about the bar’s “Love Letters Book,” a collection of names and memories from the hundreds of couples who met here. Plus, you’ll hear three meet-cute stories from couples who found their partners in the City of Brotherly Love. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

On Sunday, June 8, hundreds of thousands are expected to gather for the milestone celebration of the Odunde Festival. It turns 50 this year – a testament to the years of work from its founder, the late Lois Fernandez. Now, Oshunbumi Fernandez-West spearheads the festival. She tells host Trenae Nuri about how a simple idea morphed into the largest African American street festival in the continent, and how she’s keeping Odunde a family business. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Centre County Highway Revolt Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's the Friday news roundup! This week host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz are discussing the gun laws, or lack thereof, that may have been a factor in the Memorial Day shooting in Fairmount Park. They also cover a new workers’ rights bill signed by Mayor Cherelle Parker and the possible SEPTA funding cuts that could make your commute longer. Plus, a Pride event at the Philadelphia Zoo was suddenly cancelled – why? Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Two dead, nine wounded in ‘heinous’ Memorial Day shooting in Philly’s Fairmount Park A rise of gun switches in crimes prompts a push for stricter laws against them Gun safety bills fail in Pa. House by razor thin margin Philly mayor signs ‘POWER' bill in effort to provide new worker protections SEPTA cuts equal longer commutes Talking (and scrolling) on the phone while driving will be illegal in Pa. starting next week The Philadelphia Zoo Has a Drag Queen Problem Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Centre County Highway Revolt Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It's summer in the city of Brotherly Love, and if you’re like us, you’re looking to get out and enjoy the warm weather before the heat really sets in. So we’ve got the best tips for enjoying June in and around Philly, from where to meet The Famous River Hot Dog Man to which street festivals and movies-under-the-stars to check out. For even more tips on how to make the most of June 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. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 29th episode: Centre County Highway Revolt 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.

There’s no other elected official in Philly getting more scrutiny right now than Sheriff Rochelle Bilal. Some even want her office abolished. Just this week, The Philadelphia Inquirer’s editorial board called for her fellow elected Democrats to take her to task for a range of alleged mismanagement, corruption, and security problems uncovered by reporters. So on today’s show host Trenae Nuri goes down to the Sheriff’s Office on Broad Street and hears directly from Philly Sheriff Rochelle Bilal. She argues that she fixed a broken office, denies that there have been security problems on her watch at the courthouses, and calls for a huge increase in her budget. Thoughts on the sheriff and her office? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get more Philly news (plus event listings!) in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Centre County Highway Revolt Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

A year ago this week, the University of the Arts in Center City announced that it was suddenly closing its doors, forever, due to financial problems. The decision shocked its students, faculty, and the city at large. But there was one bright spot: The UArts dance program was saved by a tiny college in Vermont. And now we’re told that the dance program is expected to return to Philadelphia from its current location at Vermont’s Bennington College in the 2026-2027 academic year. So we’re revisiting our conversation between host Trenae Nuri, Laura Walker, president of Bennington College, and Donna Faye Burchfield, director of the dance program, about how, and why, Bennington saved this Philly jewel. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Centre County Highway Revolt Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

It’s the Friday News Round Up. Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz are talking about Larry Krasner’s landslide win in the Democratic primary for District Attorney. Plus, Mark Dial, former Philly police officer, was convicted of manslaughter for the killing of Eddie Irizarry, a man he pulled over and shot in 2023. And the Tush Push survives a vote to ban it. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: A Philadelphians Guide to the Jersey Shore The best times to travel from Philly for Memorial Day vacation The former Philly cop who shot and killed Eddie Irizarry is on trial this week for murder Mark Dial convicted of voluntary manslaughter in 2023 killing of Eddie Irizarry How Jeffrey Lurie, Jason Kelce and the Eagles saved the tush push Despite Philly DA primary loss, Pat Dugan may still challenge Larry Krasner in November Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

City Cast Philly contributor O.J. Spivey joins host Trenae Nuri to talk about his recent column in The Philadelphia Tribune about how sports radio call-in shows in Philly – a powerful and important medium in this town – don’t have any full-time hosts who are Black and not former professional athletes. How does this affect our understanding of sports in this very sports oriented town? Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

District Attorney Larry Krasner defeated Pat Dugan in the Democratic race for district attorney. Dugan spent more money on the campaign than Krasner, but the two-term incumbent leaned on his record as a progressive prosecutor and the city's lowest murder rate in a half-century. With no one running on the Republican ticket, this paves the way for Krasner to secure a third term as D.A. in the November general election. Tune into today’s episode of City Cast Philly as host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz breakdown the results of the primary election. The episode was recorded at 11p.m. on Tuesday May 20th. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Within two hours of Philly you can find theme parks, novelty museums, and even the biggest buffet in the county. With Memorial Day less than a week away, get inspired to fill the long weekend with a day trip somewhere in the Commonwealth. To help you plan your excursion, we're revisiting a conversation with host Trenae Nuri and Asha Prihar, former Hey Philly newsletter editor, about the adventures she's taken throughout Pennsylvania. Check out Asha’s day trip guides for more things to do in Lancaster, Harrisburg, and Doylestown. This episode originally aired August 8th, 2024. Where are you headed this weekend? Call or text us: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

We can’t stop laughing over Philly comedian Lauren Daniels – aka Comedian LSD – and her bits and skits on social media. So we brought her on the show. She tells us how she got into comedy from rap, how to curse in that Philly accent, and how young buls drawn. Call or text us with something funny: 215-259-8170 Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Next week Philly will vote on district attorney, city and state judges, and three ballot questions. We tell you everything you need to know before the primary election. Plus: Philly remembers the May 13th, 1985 MOVE bombing, and there’s a new way to travel from Center City to Grays Ferry. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: City Cast Philly interview with District Attorney Larry Krasner City Cast Philly interview with Krasner’s opponent, Pat Dugan City Cast Philly covers the judicial elections DA Larry Krasner has a fundraising advantage among Philly residents. Challenger Patrick Dugan is dominating the suburbs. Here’s what to know about Philly’s three ballot questions New $48M pedestrian bridge connects Schuylkill Banks in Center City to Grays Ferry Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Centre County Highway Revolt Williamstown Theatre Festival Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Our host Trenae Nuri is taking us into the world of professional circus arts. We tour the halls, workshop, and practice spaces of Philadelphia School of Circus Arts in the former St. Madeleine Sophie Church out in West Mount Airy. And after operations director Shana Kennedy shows us around, it’s Trenae’s turn to swing, jump, and hang upside down (with help from professionals, of course). Check out the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts offerings here. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Centre County Highway Revolt Williamstown Theatre Festival Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Big election coming up next week, Philly. And while you may know the candidates in the race for district attorney, unless you are an extremely informed voter, you cannot name any of the people on the ballot running to be judge – and you don’t even know how you’re supposed to decide which candidates you favor. To help us understand how to make sense of all of the judicial candidates for four different courts listed on the May 20th primary ballot, we’re bringing in an expert: Matt Olesh is the chair of the Philadelphia Bar Association’s Campaign for Qualified Judges. See which judges the Philadelphia Bar Association recommends here. Get more election news (plus things to do) in your inbox with our Hey Philly newsletter Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Centre County Highway Revolt Williamstown Theatre Festival Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Forty-years ago today – May 13, 1985 – the Philadelphia Police Department dropped a bomb on its own residents. Inside a West Philly rowhome, 11 people, including five children – all members of the Black-led group MOVE – died. How did this happen? Reporter Linn Washington Jr. has covered MOVE for 50 years. Now, he’s the host of a new podcast series from Temple University’s Klein College’s Logan Center for Urban Investigative Reporting and The Philadelphia Inquirer called “MOVE: Untangling the Tragedy.” He’s joined in this conversation by the podcast’s executive producer, Yvonne Latty. Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Centre County Highway Revolt Williamstown Theatre Festival Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

Top Dog, Pond Lehocky, and Morgan & Morgan: If you've driven on any Philly highway, you know these lawyers' names. But why are personal injury lawyers buying up all the billboard space? We're revisiting a conversation with host Trenae Nuri and Tom McGrath, contributing writer at Philly Mag, about why our highways (and buses) are covered in billboards for personal injury lawyers and what that says about Philly. Read Tom’s full story here. This episode originally aired on February 18th, 2025. 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 Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Centre County Highway Revolt Williamstown Theatre Festival Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

A cop was shot during a brawl outside of Overbrook High School, an antisemitic sign at a Sansom Street bar became national news, and federal DOGE cuts are hitting all corners of Philly, from Chinatown’s reunification plan to anti-violence efforts in Kensington to a play in South Philly. On today’s Friday News Roundup, City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz break down the week that was. Plus: Are we gonna meet up at The X? Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Cancer screenings, contraception, and other sexual health services for uninsured patients in the Philly region are impacted by a Trump funding freeze Patrick Dugan’s campaign claimed — and then removed — endorsements from wards that have not yet backed him for Philly DA ‘Kind of a heartbreaker’: Kensington gun violence prevention group takes funding hit following federal cuts Philly theaters reel from sudden loss of NEA funding Philly lost $10.2 million in the latest round of DOGE funding cuts to AmeriCorps National Endowment for the Arts grant cancellations cut deep in PhillyTrump’s Budget Cuts Reach the Front Lines of Philly’s Fight to Reduce Shootings Philadelphia tutoring program focused on student literacy cut by DOGE Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Fitler Club Art Star Cozy Earth - Use code COZYPHILLY for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise

The weather forecast is clear: It's ice cream weather! Cool down with host Trenae Nuri and Dave Wez, City Cast Philly’s food contributor/co-host of Delicious City Philly podcast, as we revisit a conversation about their favorite spots for ice cream, water ice, and gelato in Philly. This episode originally aired May 8th, 2024. Here’s a list of the spots recommended in this episode: 1-900-ICE-CREAM Milk Jawn Rita’s Ice Mister Softee Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Cold Stone Creamery Fairmount Flavors John's Water Ice Pop's Water Ice King’s Water Ice and Ice Cream George’s Water Ice Chuck’s Philly Vita Philly Fiore Fine Foods Gran Caffè L'aquila The Franklin Fountain Get Philly news & events in your inbox with our newsletter: Hey Philly Call or text us: 215-259-8170 We’re also on Instagram: @citycastphilly Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Fitler Club Art Star Advertise on the podcast or in the newsletter: citycast.fm/advertise