City Cast Pittsburgh

We love when Pittsburgh is first at something — but not this. A Redfin study says we have the highest percentage of large houses owned by Baby Boomers without children living at home, making it tough for Millennials to find homes to accommodate their growing families. But is it actually Boomers’ fault? We’re digging into the local market with journalist Matt Petras, who covered the trend for Pittsburgh City Paper. 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! The proposed Esplanade development on the North Side has generated a lot of buzz, but what are its odds of actually Ferris wheeling above the Ohio? We’ve got good news and bad news about a bunch of Pittsburgh animals, and PPG Industries is considering a change. Plus, we have a winner on the PA River of the Year! We always cite our sources: The Allegheny River was declared PA’s 2024 River of the Year, which includes a $10,000 prize to its nominating agency, Three Rivers Waterkeeper. The Esplanade development was first proposed for Chateau in 2019, and it resurfaced recently with a few new features. Lisa Freeman wants to build a local grocery store in Manchester. PPG Industries announced an internal systemic review to consider whether their architectural coatings division still makes sense for their portfolio. The company has a wide collection of industrial grade products, in addition to their sometimes better known paints. PPG’s Tim Knavish told Yahoo! Finance that the homebuying and selling boom was really good for business. If you’re curious about his favorite PPG color, check their YouTube. About 70 animals died in a fire at Nate’s Reptile Rescue in South Park, but over 100 were saved. KDKA had a really informative report. Per our recent conversation about the Pittsburgh Zoo, an official review found nothing awry. WPXI got an AZA official on the phone this week, and he confirmed we have not reapplied for accreditation yet. The National Aviary in the North Side got a new Andean Condor, a little boy chick named Bud. Today is National Pig Day. Celebrate tonight with the Pittsburgh Squealers at Voodoo Brewing in New Kensington. 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.

What’s new to eat and drink in the Burgh? Novo Asian Food Hall is finally opening in the Strip District Terminal; Girl Scout Cookies are inspiring drink pairings; Page’s will soon kick off ice cream season; and Pittsburgh is getting festivals for kosher eats, desserts, and vegan fare. Plus, why did Necromancer Brewing close in Ross Township? Get a taste of it all in today’s roundup. We always cite our sources: The owner of Necromancer Brewing spoke about why the brewery shut down. His quote was updated, and you can find the original quote through the Wayback Machine. A brewer from Hitchhiker Brewing shared his thoughts on dealing with the PLCB. East End Brewing drops its YOU ARE HERE Highland Park beer March 1 Want to drink beer and win prizes? Listen to our episode with Pittsburgh Brewers Guild. It’s Girl Scout Cookie season! Check out Wigle Whiskey’s pairings. Novo Asian Food Hall opens in the Strip District Terminal March 1 The DorStop in Dormont reopened under new ownership Sweet Alchemy’s Sweet Horror is at VooDoo Brewing in New Kensington on March 24 Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle’s Big Nosh festival is April 7-9 The national Dessert Wars stops at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center April 27 VegFest’s new VegFair takes place May 4 in Point Breeze’s Rockwell Park For more weekend events, visit our website and be sure to subscribe to the Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. 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.

Looking for fun places to go? Interesting stuff to do? Yummy noms to eat? Yinz, we’ve got five weekends to celebrate this month, plus an extra hour of daylight to do it! The City Cast team is here to help you make the most of every second in Pgh. Here are a few of the City Casty things we mentioned in today’s show: Find your perfect fish fry during Lent with this interactive map Get your garden ready and select plants that will thrive in Pittsburgh. The exhibit “A Woman’s Place: How Women Shaped Pittsburgh” opens on March 23 at the Heinz History Center. 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.

On her first day in office, Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato raised wages and improved the benefits for thousands of county employees. But she still has another 1,000+ open positions to fill. We’re talking about what she can do to make those jobs more attractive, big open leadership roles, new ballot options for the upcoming primary, how property tax assessments may change, and how she’s feeling about signing her first couple pieces of county legislation. 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 USDA updated its plant hardiness map, and the Pittsburgh area is 2.5 degrees warmer than we were a decade ago. So what does that mean if you’re getting ready to plant for spring? Meg Graham, the owner of May Apple Gardening, has a few recommendations for plants to add to your garden and some tips for how to take care of what’s already in your yard. 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! The National Transportation Safety Board released its findings into the cause of the 2022 Fern Hollow Bridge collapse, the zoo closed for a day out of respect for recent animal deaths, and Presidential election season is heating up in Pittsburgh. We’re talking about our improved water quality and what, if anything, it means to have so many national political leaders darken our regional door. We always cite our sources: You can watch the animation summarizing what led up to the Fern Hollow Bridge collapse. PublicSource did a great job explaining what caused the collapse, and the Pittsburgh Union Progress shared ways the city has improved its bridge care since the collapse. Check the Trib for a good summary of recommendations for future bridge maintenance. The Trib, WESA, and the Penn Capital-Star covered VP Harris’ visit to Pittsburgh. You can get a free lead testing kit if you are a PWSA customer. The zoo recently closed for a day, shortly after announcing the deaths of 2-year-old elephant calf Tsuni and 18-year-old sea lion Hawk. The Pittsburgh Zoo forfeited AZA accreditation in 2015, but new leadership says they’re reapplying — in part, to fulfill the terms of their lease with the city of Pittsburgh. 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! Learn more about the sponsors for this episode: Steel City Beerfest is coming up on February 24! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s fish fry season! Whether you’re in it for the fish sandwiches, pierogi, coleslaw, or dessert, there are literally hundreds of options to make your perfect plate. But with all these fish fries, how do you decide where to go? Hollen Barmer had the same question back in 2012, so she made a Google map to keep track. Today her homespun idea has ballooned into an official Pittsburgh Lenten Fish Fry Map, all updated and verified every year by a team of 18 Code for Pittsburgh volunteers. We’re talking old favorites, new additions, and new this year — fish fry playlists! — to get you in a chummy mood. 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. Learn more about the sponsors for this episode: Steel City Beerfest is coming up on February 24! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson says he's keeping a campaign promise — the nation’s third largest city announced last week it’s ditching ShotSpotter, the controversial policing technology trained to identify and locate the sound of gunshots. But as other cities disinvest, Pittsburgh is doubling down. We’re with University of Pittsburgh policing scholar David Harris to talk about how the Steel City’s multi-year, multimillion dollar deal came together, what cops and lawmakers here like about it, and why Harris thinks they need better data. Check out PublicSource’s reporting for a good primer on Pittsburgh’s history with Sound Thinking, the makers of ShotSpotter, plus the Trib’s recent reporting on a new $85,000 expansion into Carrick. 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.

Last year, Pittsburgh (quietly) got a lot bigger — not because some huge influx of people moved here, but because the White House decided to redraw the boundaries of our metro population. Now we’re eight counties instead of seven. But despite the new boundaries, Pittsburgh as a city isn’t growing. And that got us wondering why growth is so important, and whether it might actually be a good thing to be a city settled in its size. We took our questions to Chris Briem, a regional economist at the University of Pittsburgh's Center for Social and Urban Research. **This episode originally aired October 16, 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. Learn more about the sponsor of this show Steel City Beerfest is Saturday Feb. 24th

It’s the Friday news roundup! A few weeks ago, Mayor Ed Gainey told us he wants to bring a professional basketball team to Pittsburgh, and now the city’s officially exploring the idea. The Monroeville Convention Center is becoming a massive Hobby Lobby, and municipal leaders are really worried about the economic impact from an abrupt loss of business. And former Adda Coffee & Tea workers withdrew their NLRB complaint after management offered severance. Plus, we’ve got a bunch of free resources for folks who need help preparing their taxes. We always cite our sources: Former employees at Adda Coffee & Tea got a compensation package that includes severance pay. The Monroeville Convention Center is closing down, and Hobby Lobby’s slated to move into the building later this year. But local officials are saying they weren’t informed about the lease and will try to save the convention center. The Sports and Exhibition Authority is doing a feasibility study to see if Pittsburgh could be home to a pro basketball team. Pittsburgh is also hoping to host an NFL Draft in the next few years. Last year, we talked with The Athletic’s Tyler Batiste about why Pittsburgh can’t score an NBA team. Looking for help with your taxes? Newsletter Editor Francesca Dabecco rounded up a few organizations offering tax help for free. 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’re looking for a full meal out with friends or just a few snacks for the table, the food scene inside Pittsburgh’s breweries and taprooms has gotten really good lately. Today we’re with the newest addition to the City Cast Pittsburgh family, Owen Gabbey, talking about the best taproom food around, plus the city’s latest restaurant openings and closings. 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 fun to go out with friends and loved ones, but do you know what can be even more fun? Doing exactly what you want on your own for a whole dang day. Today City Cast’s Marylee Williams and Francesca Dabecco are helping yinz take yourselves on a perfect solo date in Pittsburgh! Here are a few places and ideas mentioned in the show today: Check out the City of Pittsburgh’s trail map to find a new hiking spot. Pittsburgh Center of Glass offers classes and one-time workshop sessions. Take yourself dancing! We spoke with 412Step and Pittsburgh West Coast Swing about their dance groups and how to get started as a beginner. 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.

Century III Mall closed its last store in 2020, got condemned in 2023, and now, its owners are facing criminal charges. A few days ago, District Attorney Stephen Zappala called the 90-acre property “a monument to blight.” So if it can’t be fixed, what should happen next? Writer, publisher, and shopping mall enthusiast Matthew Newton is here to share our nostalgia and explain exactly what went wrong. Check out Newton’s beautiful tome “Shopping Mall,” which is usually available at White Whale Bookstore in Bloomfield. The Trib covered Moonbeam’s latest legal trouble, including an upcoming hearing April 18. **Editor’s note: This episode originally published Aug. 14, 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.

Gov. Josh Shapiro shared a lengthy wish list in his latest spending plan, including more funding for K-12 and higher education, public transit, gun violence prevention, workforce readiness, and more; but he’s also got his heart set on legalizing recreational cannabis and raising the state’s minimum wage. We’re with Spotlight PA reporter and friend of the pod Stephen Caruso to talk about what’s possible in 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.

It’s the Friday news roundup! Attorneys released police body camera and cell phone footage from the night Pittsburgh police officers repeatedly tased Jim Rogers in 2021. The 54 year old died shortly after. City Council is proposing a tiny home village as one possible solution to houselessness, and the city’s free spay and neuter program is being paused because of suburbanites. Plus, there’s a new full-time emergency medical training program for city residents that pays homage to the city’s past. We always cite our sources: Jim Rogers was 54 in October 2021 when he died shortly after an interaction with police, which led to several officers receiving disciplinary action, and a few firings, though a few have since returned to work. The city settled a lawsuit with the family for $8 million. A law firm representing the Rogers’ family released body camera and cell phone footage this week. WESA’s Kiley Koscinski explains why that’s so unusual, and why it may not happen again. Also in 2021, WHYY reported that “While Pennsylvania’s restrictions on police footage aren’t necessarily worse than other states, advocates say access could and should be improved.” All states have right-to-know laws, but here in PA, there’s a carve out for law enforcement footage under Act 22. There’s a proposal for tiny homes as a solution for homelessness in the works, and Pittsburgh City Council members showed off a prototype of what a home could look like. Wondering what tiny homes look like in other cities? Here’s how a large community has impacted homelessness in Austin. In November, a bill was introduced in Council that would create a zoning use called a “Temporary Managed Community” to allow for proposals like this, under certain conditions. Mayor Gainey announced a new EMT training program earlier this month. Freedom House EMT Training is named in honor of Freedom House Ambulance Service, which was primarily staffed by Black paramedics and set the standards for EMT care we now. Interested in becoming an EMT? Apply to the EMT training program on the City of Pittsburgh’s career website; the deadline is February 22. Listen to our past pod about how Black Pittsburgh revolutionized emergency healthcare services. Pittsburgh is pausing the free spay and neuter program after learning that pet owners from the suburbs have been accessing services meant for city residents. 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.

National Pizza Day is tomorrow, and it’s the perfect excuse to get some ‘za. Not sure what pie to pick up? Pittsburgh’s pizza journalist, Dan Tallarico has recommendations that will satisfy any craving. You can subscribe to Dan’s newsletter on Substack and find more of his pizza expertise on pizzawalkwithme.com. 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.

When you imagine someone having a heart attack, it can seem dramatic. Big symptoms. Big response. But for women and people who’ve been pregnant, their symptoms can look so different that they might not know for sure that a cardiac event is even happening. For American Heart Month, we’re checking in with a Pittsburgher to talk about what a heart attack really looks like and how to spot your own risk factors. Follow Dr. Katie Berlacher’s work at UPMC Magee here. She’s accepting new patients and has pledged to practice LGBTQ+ affirming care. If you’re interested in getting screened elsewhere, start with your doctor, or consider one of these upcoming heart health screenings shared in our Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. 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 our Tuesday news roundup! We’re catching up on where things stand one year after a train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio. The big Iron City billboard is back, and we’re diving into the history of this Pittsburgh hillside. Some local kids were featured in the Pro Bowl, plus we’re wondering why the new Downtown Pittsburgh potties are already going away. We’re working on an upcoming show about where to take yourself on a perfect Pittsburgh date. Call or text us with your solo date ideas at 412-212-8893 and leave your name and neighborhood to be featured on the pod! We always cite our sources: Pittsburgh’s removing its mobile trailer bathrooms and opening up more permanent bathrooms Downtown. Read Oliver Morrison’s work about how residents of East Palestine feel a year after the Norfolk Southern train derailment. As part of a series on the train derailment, The Allegheny Front published a story about a stream in East Palestine that remains polluted. Ohio’s Attorney General released a statement focusing on the answers they’re looking for in the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation into the root cause of the derailment. The Iron City sign is back, and of course, Pittsburghers weighed in on what they want to see on Mount Washington. Hey Pittsburgh covered the history of the IC Beer billboard — it was once the largest neon sign in the world! Have kids interested in flag football? Pittsburgh Elite’s tryouts are coming up on Feb. 17 and 18. 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 has one of the oldest city flags in the U.S., but the design leaves something to be desired — at least, according to Ted Kaye. He's the nation's leading flag scholar and author of the flag design bible "Good Flag, Bad Flag." Kaye joins City Cast’s Mallory Falk to explain what makes a good flag, where Pittsburgh ranks compared to other cities, and whether we should be considering a new look. Want to check out some proposed alternatives to our current flags? Artist Lucy Chen designed a couple Pittsburgh flag options for Pittsburgh City Paper, and Tara Stark came up with a new design for the Pennsylvania flag. **This episode originally aired on July 12, 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.

It’s the Friday news roundup! US Steel has reached a historic settlement in a lawsuit brought by Allegheny County and environmental groups. We found out what happened with the proposed volcano at a South Side restaurant. We discuss federal dollars coming to Pittsburgh and how flooding impacted our unhoused neighbors. And it’s Gertrude Stein’s 150th birthday. We always cite our sources: Celebrate our groundhog overlord with some Phil Phacts. Yes, a South Side restaurant redesign proposal included a volcano. (but volcano or not, it serves one of our favorite mac and cheeses in Pittsburgh.) Learn about the settlement reached with US Steel. A study from 2021 looked at how nearby residents were impacted by the 2018 fire. WESA and the AP got into the specifics. You can read US Steel and PennEnvironment’s statements. The Trib covered the flooding of the Mon Wharf and the closure of the encampment. You can help some of the unhoused folks impacted. Scared of landslides? Us too! We talked about it on the pod. Explore the complicated life and legacy of Pittsburgh native Gertrude Stein. 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.

Looking for a perfect date spot? Whether you’re with friends, family, or partners, we’ve got a bunch of fun suggestions for a perfect Valentine’s week, including flowers, snacks, and a few spots that don’t require reservations. Need more? Listen to our episode with Apteka’s co-owner and co-chef, Kate Lasky, digging into the phenomenon that is Crapteka. Check out our treats guide in the Hey Pittsburgh newsletter! Plus, if you want to bake your own treats, try these oatmeal butterscotch cookies. They’re the best thing Producer Sophia Lo’s eaten this week! Your turn! Call or text us at 412-212-8893 with your favorite date night spots. 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 has always had its problems, and complaining about them is one of our favorite sports. But there’s also a long tradition of outsiders coming here — or even just reading about our town — and thinking it’s OK to add their two cents. Local writer Virginia Montanez rounded up some of the funniest and most creative insults lobbed at Pittsburgh over two centuries. She joins us to share her favorites and explain why our city drew so much ire from outside writers, newsmakers, and prominent figures. Can’t get enough old-timey insults? Check out Virginia’s column for Pittsburgh Magazine. **This episode originally aired on October 4, 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.

A ruling Monday about the limits on Medicaid funding to cover reproductive care in Pennsylvania sent shockwaves across the Commonwealth, but it could still be years before there’s full clarity on whether abortion should be a fundamental right. We’re with Sue Frietsche, co-executive director of the Women’s Law Project and a journalist with the Philadelphia Inquirer to talk about what happened and what’s coming next. Check out Gillian McGoldrick’s Inky work here, plus the litigation documents 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. ** Editor's note: In the episode, we called The Women's Law Project a plaintiff. They represented plaintiffs in this case.

February might be the shortest month of the year, but there’s a lot going on in Pittsburgh. From Black History Month to Valentine’s Day and more, we’ve got a lot of holidays to celebrate along with exciting ways to experience the best of the Burgh. The City Cast team is here to be your guide to Pittsburgh in February. 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! One city councilor wants to update the zoning code for some residential properties, a new record number of Pennsylvanians are enrolled in SNAP, and there’s a bill in our state legislature that would require kids to learn cursive writing. We’re comparing our handwritten notes, plus diving deep into the history and lore of Punxsutawney Phil. We always cite our sources: Pittsburgh City Council person Bobby Wilson introduced legislation that would update the city’s zoning code. We’ve previously chatted on the pod about how the city’s zoning rules can sometimes throw a wrench in development. There’s a record number of Pennsylvanians enrolled in SNAP. In 2022, the SNAP income eligibility requirements were raised, and the PA Department of Human Services lists the maximum gross monthly income by household size. You can apply for SNAP benefits online through COMPASS or find a county assistance office near you. Organizations like Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and Just Harvest also offer help with filling out SNAP applications and more. There’s a bill in the state legislature that would require PA schools to teach cursive writing. Instead of having Phil predict the weather with his shadow, PETA suggested using a coin flip this year. In the past, they’ve also offered alternatives like an animatronic groundhog or even having someone wear a groundhog costume and live in Phil’s enclosure. The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club has answers to questions about the Feb. 2 celebration at Gobbler’s Knob, and answers to questions you didn’t realize you had about Phil himself! Listen to our crossover episode with City Cast Philly about Groundhog Day. 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.

This icky weather has us feeling like staying in, curling up with a movie, and ordering some comfort food. Today, we’re revisiting one of our favorite power rankings about one of our favorite Pittsburgh foods – the classic mac and cheese. **Editor’s note: This episode originally published July 6, 2023. Here are all the macs referenced in today’s convo: The Rear End GastroPub and Garage in Etna has a classic mac meal. Kelly’s Bar and Lounge’s mac and cheese is an East Liberty staple. Bigham Tavern in Mt. Washington has highly customizable mac and cheese. South Side’s Spork Pit BBQ, formerly known as Double Wide Grill, still has great brisket mac. Smoke in Lawrenceville was an overall winner for both their classic and specialty dishes. Urban Tap’s smoked gouda mac is fantastic. The food truck Blowfish BBQ has a mac and cheese entree. Crafty Jackalope has a build-your-own option. Fortuitea Cafe & Bakery has a ton of vegan mac and cheese options. Carmi Soul Food has a mac and cheese side dish. And one more- a belated plug for Dive Bar and Grille, which boasts a pulled pork mac and cheese quesadilla at its many Pgh locations. 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.

We’re taking a peek behind the curtain with the man whose job is going backstage. For a few years now, Boaz Frankel has made it his mission to be nebby — an aspiration we align with deeply. Today, we’re finding out what it takes to create the web series' Yinzer Backstage Pass, plus what to expect from the big anniversary party at Bottlerocket Social Hall coming up on Thursday. Meet Boaz as he showcases never-before-seen footage, previews upcoming episodes, chats with Rick Sebak and more. Tickets are available for $10 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.

For a city full of universities and colleges, what’s one more? And what makes a DO different from an MD? We’ve got the scoop on the latest from Duquesne University, plus we’re wondering why one of our beloved inclines can’t stay open and what to look out for when Pittsburgh Pride hits a new park later this year. We always cite our sources: Duquesne University opened up their new College of Medicine for students to earn DO degrees. Here’s what being a doctor of osteopathic medicine means. The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania figures that by 2030, the state will be short more by than 1,000 primary care docs. The Association of American Medical Colleges estimates a potential shortage of primary care physicians between 17,800 and 48,000 by 2034. A study published in December asked about 500 third- and fourth-year med students across 125 schools about the considerations they’d take when thinking about residencies, and 58% said they’d be unlikely to apply for a residency program in a state with abortion restrictions. The NYT explained how abortion restrictions have changed the landscape for people who previously wanted to study reproductive care. Comedian Hannah Gadsby talks about being introduced to “her people” via Mardi Gras in her special “Nanette.” This year’s Pittsburgh Pride celebration will be held at Point State Park. Keep your eyes peeled on QBurgh for more Pride events as more gets announced. The Mon Incline is still closed, but you can check out what other funiculars look like around the world, like this one in Verona, Italy. 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.

Allegheny County’s Jail Oversight Board has been in the news a lot the last few months over lawsuits, lengthy meetings, and an ongoing disagreement about whether the County Executive needs to attend. But what does the group actually do? Who’s on the board? How often do they meet? And what’s at stake when its members and jail employees aren’t getting along? We're with Tanisha Long of the Abolitionist Law Center, who says she hasn't missed a meeting in the last two years. We always cite our sources: You can read through the state statute on county jail oversight boards. You can submit public comments for Jail Oversight Board meetings and view the monthly agenda on the Allegheny Courts website. Plus, previous meetings are posted on the oversight board’s YouTube page. The Jail Oversight Board's meeting minutes from May 2022 include more information about the mental health tier system. Members of the Jail Oversight Board have raised concerns over the jail violating rules around solitary confinement, and the jail gives out monthly segregation housing reports. TribLive has reported on issues at the jail, including solitary confinement and use of non-lethal weapons. 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! The lunar lander Peregrine is gone, a city tax that brought in a lot of money for the city was upheld as unconstitutional, and Steelers coach Mike Tomlin was made into a meme. Plus, we’ve got a few home maintenance ideas for yinz — from landslide awareness to checking your space for radon. We always cite our sources: The Commonwealth Court upheld a ruling that declared Pittsburgh’s 3% facilities usage tax, or “jock tax,” for nonresidents is unconstitutional. We love a good meme on City Cast Pittsburgh. This first one from NFL Memes had us in stitches, and then Eat'n Park jumped in the mix. PublicSource published a story about how the city is using money from FEMA to buy homes that are at risk for being affected by landslides. PA has a long history of mining, which could impact your home! Learn about mine subsidence insurance, and you can find if your home is located on top of a former mining site. If you need help analyzing the results from your at home radon test, you can call the state Department of Environmental Protection’s hotline. Kansas State University offers radon test kits you can buy. Also, if you need someone to help you mitigate radon in your home, the state offers a list of providers. 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.

After employees announced a new union last week, Adda Coffee & Tea immediately closed all four locations. Employees say they were blindsided; the owner says the shops have been losing money for years. We’re sharing what we’ve learned and our favorite alternatives for where to get your next cup of coffee — plus a few fun restaurant and store openings we’re excited to check out. We always cite our sources: Adda Coffee & Tea employees filed an official petition to unionize. After Adda stores closed, employees shared a petition for severance pay and set up a GoFundMe to raise money for a former worker’s surgery. Aside from Adda, other Pittsburgh coffee shops have closed after organized labor efforts. Redditors crowdsourced some local coffee shops which treat employees well after Adda announced store closures. City Cast Pittsburgh founding member Zach Lucas visited a Pgh coffee shop for every letter of the alphabet and shared some of his favorites on the podcast. 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’s going into 2024 with more money for traffic calming, which today’s guest hopes means fewer crashes, injuries, and deaths for pedestrians and bicyclists in the coming years. We’re with Scott Bricker, executive director of BikePGH, to talk about his hopes for the new county administration, the problem with official crash report data, expensive new infrastructure, and what it’ll take to slow Pittsburgh drivers down. Find out how to report an issue with our roads here, and check out BikePGH’s full calendar of upcoming events. 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.

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. 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 week with a few hints of winter, the team got curious about how Pittsburgh’s recent snowfall compares to previous years. Today we’re chatting through a few local winter retreat ideas, the latest on Audacy’s bankruptcy filing and how it may affect a bunch of local radio stations, and the unfortunate fate of our favorite Pgh-made, would-be, moon lander. Poor little Peregrine! Are yinz loving any mocktails lately? Call or text us at 412-212-8893. We always cite our sources: Follow what’s happening with Astrobotic’s Peregrine. The Verge covered Audacy’s bankruptcy filing, and here is one of Audacy’s recent statements. The Philly-based behemoth is trying to fast-track court proceedings. Check out more on Audacy’s Pittsburgh radio market data. Phipps wrote about how 2023 had the second-lowest snowfall on record. The Trib reported that between 1991 and 2020, the average yearly snowfall was a little over 44 inches. NextPittsburgh shared a roundup of ice skating rinks in the area. Pittsburgh Magazine wrote about a few driveable winter getaway ideas. Check out the Great Wolf Lodge’s wonderfully fluffy local commercial. 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 our birthday! City Cast Pittsburgh is celebrating two years making podcasts for yinz — 458 so far — plus well over 500 newsletters! So we’re celebrating by popping a bottle with our city’s pioneering nonalcoholic space. The Open Road in Allentown is the oldest (still open) NA specialty retailer in the nation, lined with zero-proof spirits, botanical and CBD seltzers, and even dry versions of your favorite classics. We visited the shop to talk to owner Mel Babitz about how this booze-free business is growing, the toughest alcoholic drinks to recreate, and how to pick your perfect NA adult beverage. Plus, we’re sharing a few of our favorite strategies for folks like us who are trying out Dry January, or just feel sober curious for 2024. **Editor’s note: A portion of this episode originally published Thursday, July 27, 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.

If you want to go out and party this weekend, Pittsburgh has some solid options — maybe you’ll hit Spirit, Cavo, or Club VIP — but the ‘Burgh used to have way more clubbing options that catered to a wider diversity of party-goers. We talk to City Paper’s Colin Williams about what happened to Pittsburgh’s nightlife scene. To keep up with pop-up parties, we recommend following Jellyfish, Hot Mass, and Slappers N Bangers on Instagram. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also 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 Tuesday news roundup! Astrobotic's lunar lander is in space, but it’s unclear if it’ll complete its mission. And we’re headed to the NFL playoffs. City Cast’s Megan Harris and Marylee Williams are talking through turnpike fees, a Pennsylvania river contest, some local ties to national stories, and the funniest anecdotes about pet appetites we’ve heard all year. We want to know the best mocktails you’ve had in Pittsburgh! Call or text us at 412-212-8893 and include your name and neighborhood to be mentioned on the show or in our Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. Here are some notes and references from this week’s show: NASA shared a live stream of Monday’s rocket launch carrying Peregrine. Skip ahead to about 50 minutes to see the launch and how the rocket falls apart as it exits Earth’s atmosphere. We dove deep on the podcast into the history of how Pittsburgh helped with America’s space program. Check out Ed Blazina’s reporting on the PA Turnpike, it explains more about these rate hikes. Cast your ballot for Pennsylvania’s River of the Year. Voting ends January 19th. If you like going out on the river, sign up to get Alcosan alerts on sewer overflows! Politico interviewed a conservative activist about his efforts to push Harvard’s president to resign. The PG is the only outlet we could find that reported Pitt professor George Reid Andrews’ comments on former Harvard president Claudine Gay. Reminder: Some employees there have been on strike for well over a year. Check out more of professor Andrews’ here. It’s paywalled, but The Athletic’s Rob Rossi did a great job explaining Ron Burkle and his role for the Penguins. Keep up with what’s happening with the Jeffrey Epstein court records. While a Pittsburgh pooch may have eaten a lot of cash, his owners got most of the $4,000 back. 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.

Eat more veggies, see more art, maybe even build something – whatever your New Year’s intention, we’re here to help. City Cast’s Megan Harris and Sophia Lo are sharing their 2024 wishes, upcoming events, and ways to celebrate a few January holidays, real and imagined. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want some more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s the Friday news roundup! Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato took office this week and enacted a slew of changes to the pay and benefits offered to non-union county workers, which she says will be necessary to fill more than 1,000 open jobs. Pittsburgh International Airport increased their parking fees again for the second time in less than a year. And we’re sharing everything you need to know to recycle your live Christmas tree. Plus stick around to the end to hear Megan fangirl over Pennsylvania butter. Special thanks to our guest today, socially conscious journalist and City Cast Pittsburgh contributor Natalie Bencivenga. We always cite our sources: Check out the new changes to county jobs, including a long overdue update to the vacation policy Read more about Innamorato’s goals and the inauguration here Fill out the All in Allegheny community survey to share your priorities for the county executive’s office over the next four years Airport parking lot price increases are already in effect at PIT Listen to our Insider’s Guide to Flying Out of PIT for more on parking and travel hacks when flying through Pgh’s airport Redd up on the Pennsylvania Christmas Tree Growers Association and its more than 1,400 Christmas tree farms statewide Read Francesca’s guide for how to recycle your Christmas tree with Pittsburgh or Allegheny County And follow the Pennsylvania Farm Show, including this and past years’ butter sculpture, on their Facebook page 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.

Can you keep a secret? We’re going behind the scenes of an exclusive Pittsburgh dinner party! Chef Alekka Sweeney has been hosting Secret Menu Social with one-night-only menus from rotating chefs, live music, and drink pairings. If you’re hoping to get an invite, here’s how to get your name on the list and what to expect at an extraordinary meal. Follow @secretmenusocial on Instagram for updates! 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 few years ago, a recent Pitt grad started an ambitious project — document as many Pittsburgh neighborhoods as possible and make it fun. Dean Bog became a local sensation, enticing people to care about places they’d never visited and peppering local history and flavor into every edition. And then, the YouTube series stopped. After a three year hiatus, Neighborhoods returned a few months ago with a very different point of view. What happened to the beloved Pgh filmmaker? Why the switch? And where is he going from here? Fans can also support Dean Bog on Patreon. Want more Pittsburgh news? Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh. 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.

Wondering what’s in store for the new year? So are we! From the upcoming election to ways the city is actually growing, we’re placing our bets on the biggest stories to follow in 2024. Thanks to our guests, PublicSource’s Rich Lord and Casa San José’s Monica Ruiz. We always cite our sources: Local groups and initiatives are pushing for better affordable housing solutions. Learn about arts and advocacy group 1Hood. 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.

Can you believe it’s almost NYE? If your resolutions include getting to know Pittsburgh, there’s no one better than Hey Pittsburgh newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco. She’s got suggestions for where to donate unused items, get local handmade soaps, and snap up some delicious treats to keep you cozy into 2024. Explore zero waste cleaning products The Refillery. Donate your old clothes to Free Store 15104. Light a candle-- Francesca loves Cinnamon and Rosemary from Chez Lapin. Francesca plans on reading Pride & Prejudice and Pittsburgh by Rachael Lippincott and finding books at City Books. You can catch up on Francesca's neighborhood guides. (Here is her Millvale one) The City Cast Pittsburgh Episodes Francesca will be revisiting are: The Wildest Pgh Insults from the Past 200 Years and Is Pittsburgh the Midwest? Or Part of Appalachia? Cook up local grub with goods from the local delivery service Harvie. Francesca wants to try Fun-Gal Farms mushrooms and Forma Pgh Pasta. Write Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Collage Collective hosts a variety of events. Want some more Pittsburgh news? Become a founding member at membership.citycast.fm Make sure to sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

We’ve got a few more months of miserable, gray, cold weather to get through, but someone on our team has a plan to beat the winter blues. City Cast producer and lifelong Pittsburgher Elizabeth Kauma shares her love of ski season, crafting, and a few surprise gifts for her Pittsburgh team. You can find out more about Elizabeth's old ski racing team: WPRC. Hit the slopes at Seven Springs, Blue Knob, and Boyce Park. Get crafty at McWalker Yarns in Millvale and Yarns by Design in Oakland. Get hiking at Riding Meadow Park and the Schenley Park. The City Cast Pittsburgh Episodes Elizabeth recommends are: The Legend of Pittsburgh’s Glowing ‘Green Man’, The Most-Hated Parker in Pgh Breaks His Silence, and Paczki, Parades and a Very Yinzer Mardi Gras. Become a founding member at membership.citycast.fm You too can level up your thrift flips at Cut and Sew Studio's Alter, Repair, Remake Class. Want some more Pittsburgh news? Make sure to sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

More than one City Caster calls herself an “indoor cat,” but producer Sophia Lo elevates it to a high art. Hear her suggestions on ways to bake away a quiet week and maybe even kick off your Hibernation Hottie Winter. For books, Sophia plans on going to: White Whale bookstore, City of Asylum Bookstore, Beyond Bedtime Books, and The Cozy Corner Bookstore in Shadyside Get cooking with Sophia's top 5 holiday cookie recipes. The City Cast Pittsburgh Episodes Sophia will be revisiting are: A New Way to Celebrate Queer Romance in Pgh, Pittsburgh’s Best Mac and Cheese, Brothmonger’s Tips for Making the Tastiest Soup and, A Definitive Ranking of Pittsburgh’s Pools. You can also go to Carnegie Science Center's 21+ nights — if you're of age, of course! Become a founding member at membership.citycast.fm Want some more Pittsburgh news? Make sure to sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

We’re in that liminal space between Christmas and New Years when most of us aren’t working in the usual ways and, depending on your situation, time can feel like an accordion. So this week, we’re exploring different ways to keep busy. First up is City Cast Pittsburgh executive producer Marylee Williams with a cautionary tale about biking next to the river at night. If you also want get your ears pierced, Marylee recommends Saints and Sinners and Six16. Explore the Three Rivers Heritage trail but don't bike into the river. Find your local library or visit one of Marylee's favorites: Mt. Washington Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. Get to know the big three Pittsburgh Parks: Frick, Schenley, and Highland. Hike inside the city on the Emerald View Trail. You can read more about Pittsburgh Babes on Bike's Frigid Bitch alleycat race. Become a founding member at membership.citycast.fm Want some more Pittsburgh news? Make sure to sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

It’s a special edition of the Friday news roundup! There’s a lot we could say about this year, but we’ve decided to focus on the good. We’re wrapping up 2023 by highlighting the best stories in the Burgh, including the return of McCutchen and grilled stickies, a bunch of milestone anniversaries, improvements to city landmarks, and a few funny mishaps along the way. Only happy news to close out the year! We always cite our sources: Virginia Montanez wrote about the best things that happened in Pgh in her newsletter, Breathing Space. Some big things we didn’t touch on in this episode include last month’s election, smoke from the Canadian wildfires, conversations about mental health sparked by Fetterman’s hospital stay, the East Palestine train derailment, and the verdict of the synagogue shooting trial. For their 125th anniversaries, friend of the pod Mark Houser talked about the opening of the zoo and how Kennywood became the roller coaster capitol of the world. We interviewed the city’s first openly gay police chief, and he shared his coming out story on the podcast. Dr. Jonas Salk was a key figure in developing the polio vaccine, and you can learn more about this work at an exhibit at Pitt Public Health. For another comprehensive list, check out KDKA’s lengthy roundup of their biggest stories in 2023. Become a founding 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 has a brewery or craft beer for just about any craving, and we also have a Brewers Guild that supports that more than 40 craft breweries the create these libations. We’re with incoming executive director Mel Larrick to talk about how modern beermakers honor the city’s nostalgia, plus she walks us through the city’s growing brewery trails, the guild’s new code of conduct, and how to get prizes for supporting local spots. Become a founding member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want some more Pittsburgh news? Make sure to sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.

Did we just become best friends?! Making new connections as an adult in Pittsburgh can be really hard, but hobbies can help! Writer and City Cast Pittsburgh contributor Meg St-Esprit has a bunch of great ideas to help you find a fun new pastime, plus tips for breaking the ice among your soon-to-be best pals. **Editor’s note: This show originally aired Sept. 19, 2023. Become a founding member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want some more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.