City Cast Philly

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.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! We’re talking about the recount that’s been ordered in the Pennsylvania Senate race between Dave McCormick and Sen. Bob Casey. We also cover what came out of this week’s City Council hearings on the proposed Sixers arena and why Philly is smelling smoke from New Jersey. 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: City Council hears testimony from Parker administration on proposed Sixers arena Philly City Council kicks off series of hearings devoted to Sixers’ arena proposal Pennsylvania Senate race headed to recount as Casey trails McCormick by less than half a point Bob Brady’s feud with the Harris campaign reignited long-held criticisms of the city party. But he says he’s not going anywhere. N.J. declares drought warning as conditions worsen; state’s biggest water supplier orders mandatory conservation South Jersey wildfires create hazy conditions in Philadelphia on Sunday 14-year-old charged with aggravated arson for allegedly starting 52-acre wildfire in South Jersey What does ‘John Wick’ have to do with the N.J. wildfires? See tips for how to conserve water during this dry spell 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 at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode: Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

SEPTA says it’s in a financial death spiral. The transit agency is about to increase fares on everything, across the board, by 25%. And cuts to service are on the way. Meanwhile, SEPTA’s CEO just quit, and in the backdrop of all of that, workers are threatening to strike. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Tom Fitzgerald, transportation reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer. They break down what this all could mean for your ride to work and school. Read more of Tom’s reporting here. SEPTA is holding an upcoming public hearing about fare increases. Find out more 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: Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

This summer the city embarked on an initiative to clean every block in every neighborhood. And last month the city announced results: Workers cleaned more than 18,000 blocks, cleared over 5,000 lots, towed about 2,000 vehicles, and removed 2,078 instances of graffiti. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Nic Esposito, director of policy and engagement at Circular Philadelphia, who says those numbers don’t tell the full story – because the citywide cleanup actually failed. Read Nic’s opinion article in Grid Magazine and check out Glitter, the street-cleaning service he mentioned. You can also read The Inquirer’s coverage of the issue. To find out where and when trash gets picked up by the city, go here and scroll to PickupPHL. And to find out when your block is due to get cleaned under the citywide cleaning program, go 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: Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Philadelphia Inquirer’s list of the 76 essential places to eat in Philly is here, and host Trenae Nuri is talking to the two editors who put it all together – Margaret Eby and Matt Buchanan. Here’s all of the restaurants referenced in this episode, in order of their mention: Doro Bet Villa di Roma Scannicchio’s Parc Barclay Prime Alpen Rose Borromini Suraya Kalaya Saad’s Zeppoli Li Beirut Fond Gabriella’s Vietnam Friday Saturday Sunday Little Walter Dinner House John’s Roast Pork 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.

There's been a lot of national political news filling our feeds this past week. Let's zoom into what's happening on the ground here in Philly and revisit a conversation host Trenae Nuri had with Shawna Smith, founder and owner of A Chance at Life, and Prentice Boone, founder of the Junior Barber Academy. They discuss how to create spaces for young people in our 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: Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! We’re talking about how it feels now that this election is over and what a Trump presidency will mean for Philadelphians. We also cover the latest on the Jason Kelce and Joel Embiid incidents. Plus, how we’re decompressing from the election. 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: To win Pennsylvania, Donald Trump did exactly what he needed to in Philly: Improve slightly. Philadelphia City Commissioners Unofficial 2024 Election Results Donald Trump’s growing support among Latino voters helped him clinch battleground Pennsylvania Kamala Harris campaign lashes out at Bob Brady for his lack of leadership after he claims no responsibility for Tuesday’s red wave Common Wealth of Pennsylvania Unofficial Election Results Jason Kelce on phone-throwing incident: ‘The thing that I regret the most is saying that word’ Joel Embiid suspended 3 games for shoving media member 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: The Philadelphia Citizen Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Donald Trump is now president-elect. Host Trenae Nuri speaks with Brian Rosenwald, political and media historian at the University of Pennsylvania, who writes about politics on Substack at The World According to Brian. They discuss how Trump did far better than previous Republican candidates in overwhelmingly Democratic Philly, and what his victory means for American democracy. 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: The Philadelphia Citizen Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The sun is rising in Philadelphia, and we’re here with the latest results in the presidential, senate and local elections. Host Trenae Nuri, executive producer Matt Katz, and producer Abby Fritz have reports from polling places and the most up-to-date results. Follow the latest vote in tally in Philly: Philadelphia City Commissioners Office Want some more Philly election news? 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: The Philadelphia Citizen Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

As America white-knuckles its way into one of the closest presidential elections in modern history, City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with the hosts of our shows in swing state cities. Our host, Trenae Nuri, joins a panel discussion with the hosts from Las Vegas, Madison, and Pittsburgh. In this special episode, our crew of hosts gives you a locals’ look inside how their cities are preparing for the presidential election and its aftermath. From a peek inside the Pennsylvania election warehouse where mail-in ballots will be counted, to a glimpse at how Dane County, Wisconsin’s early voting is going, you’re invited to hear what the swing states are talking about…with each other. 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 November 5th episode: The Philadelphia Citizen Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Tomorrow is the big day. And the Philadelphia City Commissioners – the three elected officials in charge of voting – have been busy preparing. So whether you voted by mail or plan to do so in-person tomorrow, what really happens after you vote? Host Trenae Nuri talks with City Commissioner Seth Bluestein, a Republican, about how voting works, whether voter fraud really happens, and why Philly hasn’t started counting mail ballots just yet. 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 with the team? Leave us a voicemail or send us a text at 215-259-8170. Learn more about the sponsors of this November 4th episode: The Philadelphia Citizen Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! All eyes have been on Pennsylvania – perhaps the most important swing state in the presidential election. Here in Philly, we haven’t had this much influence since the Founding Fathers met up in Independence Hall. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Matt Katz, executive producer of City Cast Philly, and Julia Terruso, political reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer, to break down the last days of this polarizing election and how Philly may hold the deciding votes. They discuss how Harris and Trump are basically tied, which celebrities are coming to town, and what’s happening on the campaign trail this weekend. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great journalism: Vice President Kamala Harris will hold an election eve rally in front of Philadelphia Museum of Art Harris and Trump are navigating Pennsylvania’s gender gap with bro podcasts and ladies’ room Post-its Bruce Springsteen and Barack Obama exhort Philly supporters to get out and vote for Kamala Harris The Interview: John Fetterman Fears Trump is Stronger Than Ever 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: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Tis’ the season for the return of the Giant Heart, a fake living room on fire, and lots of food! In this episode, you’ll hear our best tips for enjoying November in Philly, where to find the kale Caesar hoagie that’s breaking TikTok, how to cheer on runners during the Philadelphia Marathon and Rocky Run, and where to take the family to celebrate the holidays. For even more tips on how to make the most of November in Philly, sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly and read our picks for 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 also on Twitter 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. If you enjoyed today's interview with Luray Caverns Director of Marketing and PR, Bill Huffman, learn more here. And for more about the other sponsor of this episode: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

An estimated 25,000 people annually are released from prison and return to their communities in Philadelphia. But state data shows that two-thirds of those who are released end up back in prison. To reduce recidivism and better transition returning citizens back home, the city just opened its first reentry-focused Neighborhood Resource Center. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Pamela Superville, deputy director of the city’s Office of Reentry Partnerships, and Desmond McKinson, manager of Neighborhood Resource Centers in the city Office of Public Safety. They discuss the challenges of reentry for those involved in the justice system. The Hunting Park Neighborhood Resource Center is located at 2221 West Venango Street. Contact Desmond McKinson at [email protected] or call 267-331-1535 Pamela Superville will be speaking at Closing the Gender Wealth Gap: Incarceration as Wealth Extraction on November 13th at 4pm. Register here. 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 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 Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

We’re just one week away from Election Day. In a polarizing political climate, how do you know if the news you are consuming is accurate and reliable? We’re looking back at a conversation host Trenae Nuri had with Andrea Wenzel, author and associate professor at Temple University’s Klein College of Media and Communication, about the ways we can spot the difference between real news, fake news, and a kind of disinformation called “pink slime.” Wenzel also authored the book, Antiracist Journalism: The Challenge of Creating Equitable Local News. 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 Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

About a half-million Philadelphians use the SNAP program to buy food. But you can do way more than just buy food with your EBT card – anything from movie tickets to funding your education. Host Trenae Nuri talks about the ways to utilize this program with City Cast Philly producer Abby Fritz. For more info about SNAP go here, and for employment and training benefits go 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: BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST Luray Caverns Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday News Roundup! Today we’re talking about the race for state attorney general, state auditor and state treasurer. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris and capitol reporter from Spotlight PA, Stephen Caruso, to break down these PA races. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism: Pa. election 2024: A complete guide to the candidates for auditor general Meet Eugene DePasquale and Dave Sunday, the front-runners to be Pa.’s next attorney general Race to watch: Contested race for Pa. treasurer 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 with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Last week the Philadelphia Water Department announced that it made a deadline set by the Environmental Protection Agency to track all of its lead pipes. While much of this mapping of this service line material is still marked “unknown,” the department will have 10 years to replace all lead piping in the city, to be in compliance with a new law the Biden administration officially passed earlier this month. Back in May, host Trenae Nuri spoke with freelance journalist Zane Irwin about the plan to find these pipes and why the EPA wants to replace them. See PWD’s interactive service line material map here. Read Zane’s full story in Grid here. Resources mentioned in the episode: How to get your water tested. Find out if the water service line leading to your house is made of lead Check out the city’s Lead Guide 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 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.

Drastic cuts to SEPTA service and fare hikes loom after state Republicans held up funding that the transit agency says it needs to survive. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Democratic State Representative Ben Waxman, who represents Center City and parts of South Philly, about funding SEPTA, possible cuts, and how Philly can get its fair share from Harrisburg. 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 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 a Philly pop culture roundup! We’re talking about how the Kelce family is just … everywhere, plus a documentary about Wing Bowl and a question we can’t answer: Would you have a baby with the Phanatic? Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Johnny Goodtimes, Philly’s legendary quizzo host. They also chat about Philly sports, books, and the “Abbott Elementary”/“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” collaboration. Sign up for Johnny’s newsletter to stay up up-to-date on his events and Philly recommendations. 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 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.

Philly Music Fest starts this week. It’s seven nights of music from 23 Philly bands and artists representing rock, hip hop, bluegrass, jazz and more. Not only is PMF centered around music, it hopes to connect industry professionals to the city’s creative community. Host Trenae Nuri sits down with Greg Seltzer, founder and producer of the festival, to talk about the sounds of the city and how to keep a local music festival running for eight years. Check out the whole lineup on their website and reserve your spot for the Inside Hustle 2024 event here. 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 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! If you’ve recently tuned out all the election drama, we’ve got you covered. Since the race for president is now centered on Pennsylvania, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris – and Elon Musk! – have been campaigning in and around Philly. Our city might be the most significant in the country when it comes to determining who moves into the White House, but there are new complaints that the Harris operation isn’t properly organized and Trump is making inroads with Black and blue-collar voters. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Matt Katz, City Cast Philly executive producer, and Asha Prihar, Hey Philly newsletter editor. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local and national journalism: Inside Trump’s bizarre first town hall in the Philly suburbs, which included a 30-minute playlist party and election date flub Kamala Harris campaigns in Bucks County with former GOP lawmakers, ex-Trump aides Trump sways and bops to music for 39 minutes in bizarre town hall episode Musk Is Going All In to Elect Trump Philly officials criticize Kamala Harris’ campaign for overlooking their role in winning Pennsylvania: ‘They’ll blame us if we lose’ ‘Pennsylvania is such a mess’: Inside Team Harris’ unusual levels of finger-pointing The grieving mother who was caught off guard when she appeared in a Trump ad asks the former president to intervene In deep-blue Philly, working class voters are shifting toward Republicans Check your voter registration status here. 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 with the team? Leave us a voicemail at 215-259-8170. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.