City Cast Pittsburgh

Our fall campaign is happening now! It takes a lot to keep City Cast Pittsburgh and Hey Pittsburgh running strong. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. If you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh today. Every member makes a difference! It’s spooky season, and if you’re looking for creepy merch, you probably want to head to Allentown. Where else can you pick up an antique glass bottle that was used to hold embalming fluid? The strip along East Warrington is home to a bunch of offbeat businesses and has become a mecca for the goth kids, the misfits and the metalheads. In honor of Halloween season, we’re bringing back our conversation with Kelly Braden, owner of Grim Wizard Coffee and the Weeping Glass, and Zach Bellante, owner of Death Comes Lifting, about why the Hilltop became the perfect place to set up shop. **This episode originally published May 20, 2024. Learn more about the sponsor of this October 2nd episode: Pittsburgh Opera Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s officially October, which means it’s time to bundle up in a sweater and head out to a pumpkin patch — or dress up in an elaborate costume and sip a cocktail that looks like it’s made out of blood. Our team is sharing some of our favorite ways to enjoy Pittsburgh month, from fall hikes to haunted houses to Halloween dance parties. And if you’re looking for even more recommendations, don’t miss our recent episode about the best fall festivals in our region. Our fall campaign is happening now! It takes a lot to keep City Cast Pittsburgh and Hey Pittsburgh running strong. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. If you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh today. Every member makes a difference! 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 Pittsburgh community. City Cast Pittsburgh’s guide to October is made possible by our awesome sponsor, Pittsburgh Opera. We’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Reach us at [email protected].

Our fall campaign is happening now! It takes a lot to keep City Cast Pittsburgh and Hey Pittsburgh running strong. Your membership helps us cover the cost of bringing you the local stories you care about. If you believe in what we do, become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh today. Every member makes a difference! Debate moderators, the national press, and even the candidates themselves keep equating Pennsylvania voters with fracking, even as they say the commonwealth could be the electoral linchpin for the White House. But why? Why has fracking become the single issue we’re associated with? Today we’re with friend-of-the-pod Kiley Bense of Inside Climate News to talk about how 13 million Pennsylvanians really feel about natural gas extraction, and what the campaigns should maybe be talking about instead. Here are some notes and references from today’s show: MSNBC’s Chris Hayes talked about fracking with PA Lt. Gov. Austin Davis & former congressman and Republican advisor Charlie Dent, who explain it’s really more of a fear tactic. Today’s guest, Kiley Bense, wrote about fracking in context with our local U.S. Senate race between Democratic incumbent Bob Casey and his Republican challenger, Dave McCormick. The Ohio River Valley Institute shared a poll in 2021 that indicated more people are worried about the climate impact of fracking. Muhlenberg College also tracks polling pretty closely. The NYT published an excellent piece about low natural gas prices and how fracking ebbs and flows with price and demand. And check out this Inquirer column, which argues that if the candidates really wanted to woo us, they’d be talking less about fracking and more about the economy and reproductive rights. Learn more about the sponsor of this September 30th episode: Pittsburgh Opera Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Amtrak is offering a new way for Pittsburghers to get out of town, our local zoo re-upped an important accreditation, and a bunch of Pittsburgh sports are ramping up! Plus, we’re talking about the most recent Presidential candidate visits and ways to support our local Haitian community. We always cite our sources: Amtrak has a new temporary line that’ll connect Pittsburgh to Miami and Chicago. The Pittsburgh Zoo got an accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. The Trump campaign has put Charleroi in the spotlight. City council members are wary about Mayor Gainey’s commitment to spend $1 million of taxpayer money on the 2026 NFL Draft. The Oakmont Country Club’s ready to host the 2025 U.S. Open. Pennsylvania officially sanctioned girls’ flag football as a high school sport. Our city’s welcoming a new women’s soccer team, the Pittsburgh Riveters! Pitt’s women’s volleyball team is having a great season; they’re currently undefeated and ranked No. 1. Pirates fans are side-eyeing owner Bob Nutting after he cut two players from the team, saving himself at least $200k. Pittsburgh City Council approved a $500,000 payment to the victims who were injured in the Fern Hollow bridge collapse. The U.S. Steel sale is one step closer to being finalized. Need to catch up on the steel deal? We’ve talked about it on previous shows. The Pittsburgh Glass Center finished its $15 million refresh and expansion. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you love a good beer, a good brat, a nice soft pretzel — this is your season! There are so many ways to celebrate Oktoberfest in Pittsburgh and so many places to enjoy a great German meal. Doug Heilman, host of The Pittsburgh Dish and German food connoisseur, is here to share his favorite spots in the city for schnitzel, spaetzle, and more. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Political commercials are everywhere in Pennsylvania right now, to the tune of more than $430 million so far. So who’s paying for all of this, and why are they pouring so much of that money into Pittsburgh’s media market? We’re with PublicSource’s Charlie Wolfson talking about the men and masks behind the money, plus his series with WESA tracking whether the claims made in the ads themselves even hold up. Charlie’s “Spot Check” series will publish most Thursdays leading up to the November election. He also tracked many of the billionaires and concealed donors who’ve flooded Pittsburgh screens with attack ads, and helps explain how their ads differ from those explicitly endorsed by candidates and their parties. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s officially fall, which means leaf-peeping season is almost upon us. If you’re looking for outdoorsy autumn getaways, the City Cast Pittsburgh team has got you covered. Host Megan Harris, newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco, and producers Mallory Falk and Sophia Lo are here with our favorite trips within four hours of the ‘Burgh. **This conversation originally published September 26, 2023. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

There’s so much to experience in the city – we’ve got museums, shows, sports, and more. But the price of tickets can stack up quickly if you’re going out every week. Producer Sophia Lo is telling Executive Producer Mallory Falk about all the ways we can enjoy everything Pittsburgh has to offer on a budget. Need to grab some food while you’re out? Check out these $10 meals, and if it also happens to be your birthday, make sure you’re signed up for the right rewards programs to get your local birthday freebies. The Museums for All map lists the local museums where ACCESS and ACCESS EBT cardholders can get $3 tickets. If you enjoyed today's interview with Pittsburgh Opera's Director of Marketing and Communications, Chris Cox, learn more here. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! After a very slow start, the Pittsburgh Land Bank is making strides and launching a new residential rehab program. Nippon Steel has extra time to make its case for buying U.S. Steel, pushing the decision until after the election. And Pittsburgh City Council is poised to add more protections for medical cannabis users… with a new big exception. We always cite our sources: Happy Park(ing) Day! Find ways to celebrate in Pittsburgh and suggest ways to create safer streets. The Pittsburgh Land Bank is making more advances with investment in the Charles Street Valley. Learn more about Dorothy Mae Richardson. We talked extensively about the U.S. Steel deal on a previous Friday News Roundup, and the Biden administration is extending the review period for the sale. Pittsburgh City Council added a new amendment to a bill expanding protections for medical marijuana users. The Latin American Cultural Center has a new exhibit about Haitian culture. Learn more about the sponsor of this September 20th episode: City Theatre Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Spotted lanternflies are appearing around the city again, but they’re not just pests! These bugs are actually changing the flavor of local honey. Plus, it’s Negroni Week, and we’re talking about the reopening of one of our favorite bakeries and a new Beetlejuice-themed diner with boozy milkshakes. Thinking more about how to enjoy autumnal flavors? Check out our list of the best fall festivals and Oktoberfests around Pittsburgh. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 19th episode: City Theatre Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The opioid crisis has rocked Western PA, devastating our friends, neighbors and families. Now, companies like Walmart, Johnson & Johnson, and others that made, sold or distributed prescription painkillers have been ordered to pay $50 billion over 18 years to deal with the damage. Pennsylvania is supposed to eventually get more than a billion of that. But how that money will be spent — and who exactly gets to decide – is still in flux. Spotlight PA investigative reporter Ed Mahon and KFF Health News senior correspondent Aneri Pattani join us to share the latest and explain how members of the public can get involved. Want to learn more? Check out Ed and Aneri’s reporting on public voices getting ignored in opioid settlement money decisions, Aneri’s story about corporations benefiting from settlement money, and Ed’s coverage of money going toward county prosecutors and coroners. You can find Allegheny County’s opioid dashboard here. Learn more about the sponsor of this September 18th episode: City Theatre Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Heinz Ketchup has a chokehold on this city. From stadiums and museums to our own home pantries, it’s the ketchup brand on the table and in any good Pittsburghers’ fridge. We’re seeing if our team can actually tell the difference between our hometown brand and the competition. We’re pitting the local OG against a few other ketchups in a blind taste test – and hoping we don’t upset any yinzers along the way. Check out our episode on Heinz ketchup’s rise to prominence. **This conversation originally published June 6, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 17th episode: City Theatre Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Description: Mayor Ed Gainey recently announced his bid for re-election – much earlier than expected. (After all, he can’t officially become a candidate until January.) TribLive’s Julia Burdelski joins us to talk about Gainey’s track record, why he announced so soon, and who might decide to challenge him next year. Plus, she shares what we can expect from the mayor’s office over the coming months. Learn more about the sponsor of this September 16th episode: City Theatre Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! A beloved South Side music venue is closing at the end of the year, so we’re remembering some of our favorite shows there. Plus, we have updates on the proposal to close 16 Pittsburgh public schools — including ways you can share your feedback — and a checklist to make sure you’re registered to vote this November. We always cite our sources: Club Cafe is closing in December. We interviewed PublicSource’s Lajja Mistry and WESA’s Jillian Forstadt about the proposal to close and consolidate Pittsburgh public schools, along with other sweeping changes. Lajja and Jillian crowdsourced questions and brought them to the consultants behind the proposal. The consultants will share their final recommendations with the school board on October 15. Want to provide feedback on the PPS proposal? You can fill out the Facilities Utilization Plan Let’s Talk Form and/or sign up to speak at the school board’s next public hearing on Monday, September 23. (Just make sure you sign up by noon on September 22!) Need to register to vote, update your registration, or just want to make sure you’re actually registered? We’ve got a handy voter registration checklist for you! Allegheny County is setting up 10 ballot return sites and five satellite voting centers ahead of the November election. Western PA school districts are considering cell phone bans. Learn more about the sponsor of this September 13th episode: Fulton Commons Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Fall is just around the corner, and pumpkin spice has hit local menus. If you want more autumnal fun, we’re talking cozy cider and beer, apple picking, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, hayrides, and even a brand new Oktoberfest, including a hard-to-imagine Ferris wheel on the Roberto Clemente Bridge. Looking for even more to do this fall? Discover the Burgh rounded up their favorite Oktoberfest celebrations, and we spoke with some local haunt actors last year to find the ultimate spooky attractions. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 12th episode: Fulton Commons Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Just because you're not actively house hunting doesn't mean you can't be nebby and wonder what other people's homes look like. Annie Perri Cole, one half of the popular Instagram account @housesofpittsburgh, is an expert at going inside a Pittsburgh house and getting the good stories — from who it was built for to how the current owners got enormous furniture up a fancy spiral staircase. She joins us to share her itinerary for Pittsburgh’s North Side home tours this fall, plus explain how the Frick revamped its tour of the renowned Clayton House — and why the changes matter. Get tickets for the Mexican War Streets tour on September 15, the Observatory Hill tour on September 28, and the Bellevue tour on October 19. Plus, check out @housesofpittsburgh’s peek into a spectacular Bellevue home that’ll be part of this year’s tour. Learn more about the sponsor of this September 11th episode: Fulton Commons Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The Democrats have been camping out in Pittsburgh ahead of tonight’s Presidential debate, and they paused briefly to visit Penzeys Spices. We’re talking about how folks have responded to all the attention on PA, plus there are a bunch of new films and TV shows you can watch featuring the Steel City and its people right now. We’re even counting Cam Heyward on “Hot Ones” and Michael Keaton on “Late Night with Seth Meyers.” We always cite our sources: Steelers DT Cam Heyward took on “Hot Ones” and shared his favorite Pittsburghese. During her stay in Pittsburgh, pro-Palestine protesters demonstrated outside of VP and presidential candidate Kamala Harris’ hotel. Harris visited Penzeys Spices in the Strip District. Penzeys owner, Bill Penzey, is staunchly anti-Trump, and there’s even a section on the spice store’s website dedicated to criticizing the Republican Party. Watch the presidential debate on ABC News Live at 9 p.m. Eastern. Pittsburgh Film Office director Dawn Keezer is celebrating 30 years in the city. Check out the new sound stages being built in Rankin, and our No. 13 ranking in Movie Maker Magazine’s top places to live and work as a filmmaker. Dawn Keezer’s been on the podcast to talk about film tax credits, projects in Pittsburgh, and the film curse that we finally broke. Pittsburgh-born Micheal Keaton and super fan Seth Meyers talk about their “irrational confidence” as Pittsburgh sports fanatics. “The Pitt,” an upcoming medical drama is filming around Allegheny General this week, but the studio’s getting sued by the estate of “ER” creator Michael Crichton. The lawsuit alleges that “The Pitt” is a reboot of “ER” made without permission. Prefer reminiscing about old TV shows instead of watching new ones? City Paper looked back at some of Pittsburgh’s reality TV stars. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 10th episode: Fulton Commons Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Just a few days before the school year started, 9-year-old Courtney Carter was killed by a car while riding her bike along Rosedale Street in Homewood. Neighbors had long raised concerns about the stretch where she was hit, asking for traffic calming measures like speed bumps and stop signs. We’re revisiting a conversation from earlier this year — after another cyclist was struck and killed — about what’s going on and what still needs to happen to keep cyclists and pedestrians of all ages safe on Pittsburgh roads. **This conversation originally published May 13, 2024. Learn more about the city’s commitment to Vision Zero and traffic calming, including which projects are coming next. There’s also a petition for Homewood residents asking city officials to invest in better safety measures for the neighborhood. ​​Are you a bike person? Check out a few of our previous shows and articles: Will More Traffic Calming Money Make Pittsburgh Safer? City Cats, When To Call 311 & Wins for Monroeville and the South Hills Who Will Respect Bike Lanes If Even Police Won't? How To Get a Free Bike Light in Pittsburgh Gear Up for Pittsburgh's Best Biking Events Pittsburgh’s Best Bike Shops Learn more about the sponsors of this September 9th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Fulton Commons Babbel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! Things are heating up again over the potential sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel, based in Japan. As a federal review continues, President Biden looks poised to block the acquisition. Meanwhile, company executives are hosting rallies Downtown. Pittsburgh City Council signed off on a new eviction protection program for renters, former mayor Bill Peduto’s twitter got hacked, and with all the political candidates cycling through Western Pennsylvania, there were sure to be haters over Tim Walz’s recent MilkShake Factory order. If you have any U.S. Steel tea or want to add something we shared, please call or text us at 412-212-8893. We always cite our sources: While President Biden’s ready to block Nippon Steel’s acquisition of U.S. Steel, the CEO U.S. Steel said that without the sale, thousands of jobs will be at risk, and the company’s headquarters might need to leave Pittsburgh. In a recent visit, VP and presidential candidate Kamala Harris said that U.S. Steel should remain American-owned and American-operated. About 400 U.S. Steel employees rallied Downtown in support of the sale, but the union’s previously joined lawmakers in opposing the deal. The union supported a $7.3B offer from Cleveland-Cliffs, but U.S. Steel turned down the offer saying it was “unreasonable.” The union’s concerned about loopholes in the current agreement, including one that lets Nippon Steel abandon promises in the case of “unanticipated or significant downturn in business conditions.” But for now, Nippon Steel committed to making $2.7B in improvements to our steel mills. City Council approved $2 million from the Stop the Violence fund to assist renters facing eviction. This is an expansion of a pilot program that prevented evictions in about three out of four cases. If you’re looking for a new rental unit, there are six things you need to know before you sign a lease, and if you get in a dispute with your landlord, there’s other options besides going to court like mediation. Neighbors living in a Highland Park duplex have been in a battle to one-up each other’s political lawn signs, and it’s getting intense this election season. Political candidates are dropping big bucks in our state! AdImpact shows a combined $350M spent in PA. The most money was spent in Philly, but Pittsburgh came in second, with $83M put in our local market. VP candidate Tim Walz’s visit to Western PA included a stop at the MilkShake Factory and a farm in Fayette County. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 6th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Babbel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Whether you need the perfect spread for an upcoming family gathering or just want a sweet treat to enjoy on a cool fall weekend, there are so many great bakeries to choose from. The City Cast Pittsburgh team is rounding up some of our favorite baked goods, from cannoli cruffins to cakes with actual teeth. Need even more sweet treats in your life? Check out our episode about the best donuts in Pittsburgh or our conversation about the history of cookie tables, where to buy cookies to bring to a wedding, and our personal favorite recipes. Plus, if we missed your favorite baked goods in the city, let us know! Call or text us at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 5th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Babbel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

In the 1930s, renowned journalist Ernie Pyle defamed our city streets. “Pittsburgh is the cockeyedest city in the United States,” he wrote. “Physically it is absolutely irrational. It must have been laid out by a mountain goat.” If you’ve driven around the city lately, you know his assessment is still accurate. Friend of the pod and former Uber driver Jakob Lazzaro joins us to talk about why, share twelve very important rules for navigating our narrow, hilly streets, and – of course – debate the efficacy of the Pittsburgh Left. Want to dive deeper into the history behind our city’s quirky layout and driving rules? Check out WESA’s reporting on our mismatched streets, frustrating on-ramps and Beltway System. Pittsburgh City Paper also has a great look at our Beltway. And don’t miss the 99% Invisible episode about trying to create a GPS that speaks Pittsburghese. If you enjoyed today's interview with Pittsburgh Recovery Walk's representative, Rachel Shuster, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 4th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Babbel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

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 Pittsburgh community. Fall is almost here, which means it’s time to lace up your hiking boots and grab an apple cider donut — or lace up your Ren Faire outfit and grab a turkey leg. Whether you’re into stargazing, tailgating, or harvest festivals, we’re here with tips for enjoying September. If you love our food recommendations in this episode, don’t miss our recent episode about the best meals for $10 or less in Pittsburgh. For even more tips on how to make the most out of September in Pittsburgh, check out Hey Pittsburgh’s take on what to do this month. City Cast Pittsburgh is made possible by our awesome sponsors, like Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Recovery Walk, and Babbel. We’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Reach us at [email protected].

It’s the Friday news roundup! As Pittsburgh gets ready to celebrate Labor Day — and host presidential hopefuls again — we’re digging into our history as the birthplace of the modern labor movement. Plus, we finally know why the Peregrine moon lander failed, but we don’t understand why Pennsylvanians aren’t claiming their Powerball money. We always cite our sources: President Biden’s been to four of our Labor Day Parades here over the past 15 years, and he’s set to come to the area this year with presidential nominee and current VP Kamala Harris on Monday. We’ll see if he makes another parade appearance! Republican presidential candidates have been in our area too. VP nominee JD Vance was in Erie this week, and former president Donald Trump will be in Johnstown today. Labor Day weekend is going to be another busy time for the airport, so if you’ve got a flight early in the morning, make sure you build in extra travel time. Want to take a vacation when the airport’s not as hectic? Check out our interview with Scott Keyes, the founder of Going, where he gives us the insider scoop on how to find cheap flights from Pittsburgh. Astrobotic released a review of the Peregrine lunar lander’s mission, and Tech Crunch reports that one valve was the culprit in the $108M mission’s early end. Pittsburgh’s been on the frontier of space exploration since the Apollo missions in the 1960s. There are three unclaimed winning Powerball tickets in PA that are expiring soon – including one that’s worth $1 million. One study shows that winning the lottery can improve your life! While you can’t win the lottery anonymously in PA, for a while, we had more Powerball winners than any other state. Individuals aren’t the only ones getting cash from a winning lotto ticket. The store that sold the ticket also gets a bonus, which recently included an Allegheny County pizzeria. An Olympic gold medalist, aka pommel horse guy Stephen Nedorosick, is going to be on the next season of “Dancing with the Stars,” and he brought his cat to LA for filming. We spoke with local reporters Jillina Forstadt and Lajja Mistry about why 16 public schools might close, and they got answers for crowdsourced questions. Read more about what the consultants working on PPS’ closure plans have to say about their ideas for restructuring schools. September RAD Days have been announced! Check out the free events at Pittsburgh’s cultural institutions here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 30th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s pawpaw season in Pittsburgh, and we’re sharing everything you need to know about this tropical-tasting fruit, its native habitat, and how to forage its flavors for yourself. Plus, friend-of-the-pod Sarah McAlee (aka Brothmonger) is sharing big news for October, the beloved ice cream shop Dave & Andy’s has found new life thanks to a “sweet tooth family,” and there’s more pizza and coffee shops to check out in Pittsburgh. We hope you came hungry! Is there a new bar or restaurant you’re loving in Pittsburgh? Call or text us at 412-212-8893. If you enjoyed today's interview with Pittsburgh Recovery Walk's Representative, Rachel Shuster, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 29th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

As students return to school, Pennsylvania is still facing a dire teacher shortage, and experts say there aren’t enough qualified candidates to replace everyone who’s quit or moved away. We teamed up with City Cast Philly to unpack the problem, causes, and consequences — plus, share our take on a few potential solutions. **This episode originally published August 28, 2023. We always cite our sources: Check out PA’s teacher retention data for yourself, courtesy of Penn State’s Center for Education Evaluation and Policy Analysis. Chalkbeat did a great two-part breakdown on the problems and potential solutions. The Learning Policy Institute shared suggestions for how to improve teachers’ first years. The Hechinger Report wrote about a couple PR campaigns trying to change public opinion about teaching. The Center for Black Educator Development is based in Philly and does a lot of great work around recruiting teachers of color. Ten years ago, it wasn’t uncommon to see 3,000 to 4,000 applicants pop up for a single job listing on PA-educator.net, the PA’s main jobs board. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 28th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh is known for a lot of things — steel and shale, eds and meds, bridges and ball games — but did you know that our city once had its very own “Wall Street” Downtown? Author and historian Mark Houser is here to talk about our region’s first financial district and the iconic buildings that followed, all because someone struck oil (on purpose) 165 years ago today! Want to learn more Downtown history? Sign up for one of Mark’s antique skyscrapers tours. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 27th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

After Pittsburgh’s immigration court closed in 2022, Casa San Jose executive director Monica Ruiz transformed her space into a makeshift courtroom, but it’s not the most sustainable solution. City Cast’s Mallory Falk, who worked reported on immigration from the the U.S.-Mexico border before coming home to Pittsburgh, sits down with Ruiz to discuss the virtual court process and the enormous stakes for people making their case to receive asylum in the U.S. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 26th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Airport Corridor Transportation Association Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! We’re looking at both national political conventions to see how Pennsylvanians talked about local issues and celebrating the golden anniversary of an iconic Pittsburgh landmark. Plus, Covid cases are on the rise, and Giant Eagle is dropping GetGo — but another bird is swooping in. We always cite our sources: Giant Eagle is dropping GetGo but the new owners, Couche-Tard, will keep the myPerks loyalty program. Covid cases are on the rise in Pgh and elsewhere, and the new vaccine isn’t ready yet. The CDC tracks Covid levels in wastewater, and so does the state, which has a county by county dashboard. Only about a quarter of Allegheny County residents got the last Covid vaccine. The stakes are especially high for Allegheny County because respiratory illnesses don’t play well with poor air quality. A bunch of PA and Pgh folks spoke at their respective party conventions, including organizer Erin Koper and Senate candidate Dave McCormick at the RNC and Lt. Gov. Austin Davis and Gov. Josh Shapiro at the DNC. At the RNC, Koper talked about Pittsburgh police staffing levels, which are rising, and homicides, which have fallen since the year she cited on stage. Homicides rose in 2022 all over the nation. The Democratic roll call doubled as a dance party, featuring both “Motownphilly” and “Black and Yellow” for Pennsylvania. Aliquippa Mayor Dwan Walker, who welcomed VP candidate Tim Walz to talk to the Quips football team last week, gave the first remarks. Point State Park and our enormous fountain are celebrating their combined 50th birthdays. We talk about some of their most fun facts in this week’s news quiz. City Paper has a great deep dive into its history, too. Nurses at West Penn Hospital authorized a labor strike this week, and striking workers at the Post-Gazette are nearing two years off the job. The PSO is on its European tour. They’ll be back in Pittsburgh to open their new season in September. Besides baton diplomacy, there’s a lot of other ways we foster connections with other countries. Learn more about our sister cities in our conversation with the former director of the Sister Cities Association of Pittsburgh. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 23rd episode: U.S. Steel Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Pittsburgh Recovery Walk Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Eating out can get expensive fast! Thankfully, there are still a bunch of affordable and local bites all around Pittsburgh. And we’re not talking about buying a single slice of pizza. We’ve got recommendations for breakfast biscuits, sit-down meals, and sushi — all for $10 or less. Have another cheap meal you love? Let us know! Call or text us at 412-212-8893. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 22nd episode: U.S. Steel Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Want to go out dancing, but don’t want to club? Pittsburgh has a solution for you! We’re with 412Step and Pittsburgh West Coast Swing talking about getting started, finding community, and learning the groove in safe spaces all over the city. Looking for a class setting? Try out bachata at Los Sabrosos Dance Co.; Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre has a bunch of dance and fitness classes; and Level Up Studios offers hip-hop, ballet, heels, and Bollywood for a variety of ages. **This episode originally aired January 16, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 21st episode: U.S. Steel Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you’ve ever wanted to visit a Mormon temple before it’s closed to the public, now is your chance! A new temple just opened in Cranberry and guests can get a glimpse inside for a limited time. Host Megan Harris and producer Sophia Lo explain why this kind of access is so rare. Plus, they discuss what to do if a low-flying plane drops some treats in your neighborhood (TLDR: steer clear, they’re rabies vaccines for racoons!) and predict when and whether the Three Rivers Regatta could make a triumphant return. We always cite our sources: It’s not clear whether former President Donald Trump meant to say North Carolina when he was with supporters in Wilkes-Barre. Three Rivers Regatta leadership is shooting for a 2025 return — without help from an unresponsive pizza shop. Here’s a KDKA clip about an injury in the Red Bull Flugtag. A new Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cranberry is open for public tours for a limited-time. This is the second LDS temple in Pennsylvania, and the temple will serve around 29,000 people. Allegheny County’s leaving out 300,000 rabies vaccines for raccoons. If you spot any bait, make sure you know what to do so your kids and pets don’t go poking at it. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 20th episode: U.S. Steel Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Welcome to Steel Stories by U.S. Steel. This is a special edition of "Steel Stories by U. S. Steel" podcast. Tune in to get the inside scoop on the acquisition of U. S. Steel by Nippon Steel and what it means for our community. Hear from David Burritt, President and CEO of U. S. Steel, and Takahiro Mori, Vice Chairman of Nippon Steel to learn how this historic move is set to drive growth right here in Pittsburgh and across the U.S. Catch more episodes of Steel Stories on all major podcast platforms. Search for 'Steel Stories' and hit play.

Pittsburgh Public Schools released a penny-pinching plan that could drastically change our public school system. From building closures and consolidations to separating kids by age groups and changing magnet programs, the recommendations are sweeping and there’s not much time for stakeholders to weigh in. We’re with PublicSource’s Lajja Mistry and WESA’s Jillian Forstadt to explain what we know so far and how you can get involved. Read their great reporting series PPS’ Path Forward and share your questions and concerns with Lajja and Jillian here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 19th episode: U.S. Steel Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! Freelancer and City Cast contributor Meg St-Esprit joins City Cast’s Megan Harris and Mallory Falk to talk about increased tourism in the Strip District and Downtown and a new state law that could lead to more armed security guards in schools. Plus, they share their astonishment over how much trash is in our rivers and learn about a famous Pittsburgh architect whose mid-century modern dream homes are on the market (for enormous price tags). We always cite our sources: A recent Allegheny River dredge dug up 50,000 pounds of car parts — possibly from a long-gone Downtown parking lot. The Strip District will possibly double the number of visits over the next couple years. A new bill tied to the state budget requires one security officer per district to be trained and licensed to carry a gun, but the district can decide whether or not to have the officer bring it into the school. Wondering what else is part of this year’s PA state budget? Check out our interview with City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri and Spotlight PA reporter Stephen Caruso. The Catholic schools in the Diocese of Pittsburgh hired six armed guards and a few security officers this year. A Shadyside house by the famous architect and brief protege of Frank Lloyd Wright, Tasso Katselas, is up for sale. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 16th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Bike PGH Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pittsburgh Coffee Week just announced their dates for the fall, and in the meantime, the team is excited about some of the latest developments in the city’s coffee scene, from new stores to end-of-summer specials. Host Megan Harris and producer Sophia Lo share some of the spots they’re most excited to try. Plus, they try to make sense of the sudden closure of 40 North — the restaurant attached to City of Asylum. Check out Pittsburgh Summer Restaurant Week specials here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 15th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Bike PGH Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Fall is a big rental season in Pittsburgh — it’s the start of the school year, after all — but how can you tell whether that spot you’re eyeing will be the perfect new home or the apartment from hell? Adam DiBuo with Neighborhood Legal Services is sharing an essential checklist to help you sort through the details before you sign a lease. Plus, stick around for what to do if things with your landlord ever go south. This episode originally aired May, 15, 2024. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

In Pennsylvania, it’s easier to buy an assault rifle than a handgun thanks to a loophole in our state law – one that’s come under increased scrutiny since the assassination attempt at the Trump rally in Butler last month. Venuri Siriwardane, health reporter for PublicSource, joins executive producer Mallory Falk to Pennsylvania’s gun laws and loopholes, plus the push to create more statewide gun safety measures. You can read Venuri’s reporting on state gun laws in PublicSource. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 13th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Bike PGH Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

National Thrift Shop Day is this Saturday, so if you need a refresh for your fall wardrobe, it’s the perfect time to start looking for new outfits. Buying second hand can be tricky – it’s hard to figure out which shops have the best items to suit your style, how to sort through all the clothes, and how to tell if something fits without a dressing room. Thrifting expert and sustainable fashion advocate Hannah Horstmyer joins producer Sophia Lo to share their favorite thrift shops in the city and tips for leaving with a clothing haul you’ll love. Want even more thrift shop recommendations? Check out our list! Learn more about the sponsors of this August 12th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Bike PGH Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! Kamala Harris made her pick for vice president and it’s not our governor. We’re talking about what’s next for Josh Shapiro – plus what to make of JD Vance’s first campaign stop in Pennsylvania – with Kim Lyons, editor of the Pennsylvania Capital-Star. We also check in on a Pittsburgh-based company that’s raising millions to launch driverless trucks in Texas, and ask whether Neftlix’s Unsolved Mysteries reboot could help solve a Beaver County cold case. We always cite our sources: Gov. Josh Shapiro warmed up the crowd at Kamala Harris’ rally in Philly on Tuesday, before she and her running mate Tim Walz took the stage together for the first time. Some reporting suggests Harris had better chemistry with Walz than Shapiro during their meetings last weekend. JD Vance also held a rally in Philly on Tuesday – it was his first campaign stop in Pennsylvania since he became Donald Trump’s running mate. Aurora Innovation raised $483 million to launch a self-driving truck route between Dallas and Houston – the company, which is headquartered in Pittsburgh, initially asked for $350 million. Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries reboot is highlighting a Beaver County cold case from 2014. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 9th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Tree Pittsburgh Rivers of Steel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

A lot of us find comfort in cooking shows, but today we’re getting off the couch and going behind the scenes with a Pittsburgher who actually competed in one. Home cook Doug Heilman is bringing local dishes to the latest season of The Great American Recipe. He tells us how much prep time contestants really get, who washes the dishes, and how the Steel City inspired all of his delicious-looking food. Will Doug win The Great American Recipe? Tune into the finale next Monday, August 12 to find out! And don’t miss his local food podcast, The Pittsburgh Dish. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 8th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Tree Pittsburgh Rivers of Steel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you own an old home, there might be discriminatory language in your deed barring Black people from owning the property. It’s called a racial covenant, and even though this language isn’t enforceable anymore, it’s still on the books in the subdivisions of at least a few Pittsburgh neighborhoods — and especially in our suburbs. Local writer and historian David Rotenstein joins us to talk about what got us here, and a new law that could help homeowners address these ugly remnants of the past. You can read David’s reporting on racial covenants in PublicSource and Pittsburgh City Paper. **This episode originally published May 8, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 7th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Tree Pittsburgh Rivers of Steel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

A local teacher was left out of America’s latest prisoner swap with Russia, but his family isn’t giving up. Seven vending machines filled with free Narcan are popping up across the county, and Pittsburgh’s alcohol-free scene is more vibrant than ever. Plus, how a certain mayor added to the VP announcement drama. We always cite our sources: The mayor of Philadelphia posted a video last week calling for people to support “vice president Josh Shapiro,” but one source said this isn’t a formal announcement about Harris’ running mate. Oakmont resident Marc Fogel was left out of the US’ prisoner swap with Russia, and he shared how he’s feeling with his family. Vending machines filled with free Narcan are popping up around Allegheny County, and Prevention Point offers more harm reduction resources and instructions on how to administer Narcan. Looking for more alcohol-free spaces in the city? Stage AE recently introduced its sober sanctuary, and the Open Road is moving to Garfield. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 6th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Tree Pittsburgh Rivers of Steel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Pennsylvania’s getting millions from the federal government to build hydrogen hubs in the hopes of creating an energy source that’s cleaner than fossil fuels. Our state lawmakers think it’s a pretty good deal, but some environmental groups worry that without the right regulations in place, these hubs won’t actually be as environmentally-friendly as they seem. Now that the first phase of an Appalachian hub is kicking off, we’re revisiting our episode from last fall about the potential and pitfalls of these huge projects. Have more questions about our regional hydrogen hub? Its leaders are holding a virtual community meeting on August 16th. Learn more and register here. **This episode originally published September 6, 2023. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 5th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Tree Pittsburgh Rivers of Steel Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! We’ve got the latest on Pittsburgh’s so-called “jock tax,” how Pennsylvanians are showing out in the Paris Olympics, and what we know about a Pittsburgh-area teacher who was left off an historic prisoner swap with Russia. Plus, we’re checking in on the Trump rally investigation and decoding Kamala Harris’ choice to introduce her vice presidential pick in Philly next week. We always cite our sources: Pittsburgh’s “jock tax” is headed to the state Supreme Court. Kamala Harris will hold a rally with her running mate in Philadelphia next Tuesday Former President Donald Trump held a campaign rally in Harrisburg on Wednesday — his first time back in Pennsylvania after the assassination attempt in Butler County. Earlier in the day, he spoke at the National Association of Black Journalists’ annual convention. Trump says he plans to return to Butler County but has not released more details. As the investigation into the assassination attempt continues, the Butler County district attorney has been defending local law enforcement officers after the state police commissioner told Congress that they left their post at the rally. The prisoner swap between the U.S. and Russia does not include Oakmont teacher Marc Fogel. Fogel’s mother met with Trump the day of the Butler County rally and had been hoping he would draw attention to Fogel’s case during his speech. Senator Bob Casey is urging the Biden administration to prioritize Fogel’s release. Learn more about the sponsor of this August 2nd episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

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 Pittsburgh community. It’s officially August and there is so much to do in and around the city, from kayaking under a meteor shower to catching live music in a city park. The City Cast team is sharing our recommendations for making the most of Pittsburgh this month, whether you’re looking for a festival dedicated to banana splits or a chance to see the Steelers practice up close. And if you’re craving more food recommendations, check out our episode on the best food festivals to close out your summer. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Reach us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have a birthday coming up? Producer Sophia Lo rounded up some of the best birthday freebies and discounts for her birthday, and we’re bringing you all the local restaurant loyalty programs you need to sign up for so you can celebrate your big day with sweet treats and even full meals. Have a favorite local freebie that we didn’t mention? Let us know, and your answer might be featured on the show! Email us at [email protected]. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 31st episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

If you want to go camping, where should you start? We’re back with Marcus Shoffner, founder of the Outdoor Inclusion Coalition, talking about favorite destinations in and around the city, his tips and tricks for a good experience, ways to borrow and learn how to use the right gear, and other low-stress ideas to get you started. Plus, an update on the overnight camping pilot he started in Riverview Park! Want to hear more about inclusivity in outdoor spaces? Check out our previous conversation with Marcus. **This episode originally published April 24, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 30th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

The humble user review — taken alone, is just one person’s opinion. But put a bunch together, and that aggregated star rating can make or break a local business. So today, we’re going inside the minds of the people leaving one-star reviews for some of our favorite Pittsburgh places. Producer and quizmaster Elizabeth Kauma puts host Megan Harris and newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco to the test. Can they guess famous Pittsburgh landmarks based only on one-star reviews? Who knows Pittsburgh’s haters best? Check your answers as you play along. **This episode originally published March 11, 2024. Learn more about the sponsor of this July 29th episode: Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! With Gov. Josh Shapiro in the running to be Vice President, we’re bringing a critical eye to his record, his policies, his wish list, and his controversies to see what he could bring to a Democratic ticket — and what happens to PA if he vacates the governor’s office early. Plus, the 2024 Olympic Games start today, and there are a bunch of ways to root for Pittsburgh in Paris. We always cite our sources: Spotlight PA has a great rundown of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s achievements and controversies Almost 30 public education advocacy groups across the country sent a letter to Kamala Harris urging her not to select Shapiro as her running mate because of his support for school vouchers As governor, Shapiro has sought to regulate natural gas development while also embracing it Shapiro’s office paid almost $300,000 to settle a sexual harassment allegation against a top aide A bunch of Pittsburgh athletes are headed to Paris, including Calahan Young, who will play goalball in the Paralypmics Kyle Holbrook, a muralist from Wilkinsburg, will paint four murals in Paris during the Olympics. Sign up to stream the Olympic games for free. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 26th episode: Bike PGH Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST YWCA Equity Award Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Does your perfect weekend involve wandering through local food stalls and sipping on a giant lemonade? Then you're in luck! Host Megan Harris and producer Sophia Lo are rounding up the best food festivals through the rest of the summer, including spots for vegans, meat lovers, and beer aficionados. Plus, if you missed the first round of Greek food fests this year, we’ve got a fresh recommendation for you! Learn more about the sponsors of this July 25th episode: Bike PGH Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST YWCA Equity Award Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.