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City Cast Pittsburgh

City Cast Pittsburgh

1,093 episodes — Page 7 of 22

The Best Brunches in Pittsburgh

This weekend, treat your mom, caretaker, or even yourself to brunch! Whether you want dippy eggs and homefries or a towering stack of pancakes, there's a spot in the city for you. City Cast's Megan Harris, Mallory Falk, and Francesca Dabecco are running through some of their favorite brunch menus and which dishes they recommend, plus the places they can't wait to try next. Want the shortlist? Here are the four brunches we just don't want to live without. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 8th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Liberty Magic 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.

May 8, 202527 min

Taste Pittsburgh History on a Culinary Trail

When you think of a food tour in Pittsburgh, you might picture bar crawls on the South Side or Friday pierogi around Lent. But there is another, more nuanced way to taste our region — by following one of PA Tourism’s six official culinary trails. These curated road trips include lots of tasty stops and local history, including boozy options, overnight stays, and family-friendly inspiration. Food historian Mary Miller, the mastermind behind several of our state trails, shares her inspiration and offers tips for anyone hoping to design their own crawl, tour, or trail. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 7th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Liberty Magic 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.

May 7, 202519 min

What’s Inside the the $700M+ Esplanade

The Esplanade development project planned for the North Side is inching closer to fruition, but it could be 10 years before the multi-phase plan — including everything from a Ferris wheel to a marina — takes its final form in Chateau. Turning a partially empty space into a busy, beautiful waterfront site is exciting for many, but it also raises questions about whether existing neighbors can grow in tandem with its success. We’re bringing back a conversation with PublicSource’s Rich Lord and Eric Jankiewicz to talk about its history and all the hurdles it still has to go. **This episode originally published Feb. 11, 2025. Notes and references from today’s show: Ahead of Esplanade, Manchester now has two groups with development standing [PublicSource] As $740 million Esplanade approaches Tuesday hearing, Manchester residents unsure of their voice [PublicSource] Esplanade development takes first spin through City Planning process [PublicSource] Learn more about the sponsors of this May 6th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Liberty Magic Fulton Commons Perrico Gardens Cozy Earth - Use code COZYPITTSBURGH for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, 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.

May 6, 202524 min

Why Tony Moreno Wants To Be Pittsburgh's Next Mayor

Four candidates are running to lead Pittsburgh, and we're asking each of them why they think they're the right person for the job. This week, Host Megan Harris is talking to Tony Moreno, a retired police detective who served for more than 20 years. He's making his second consecutive bid for mayor. This is the final installment in our "Mayoral Mondays" series. Listen to our previous installments: Incumbent Democrat Ed Gainey Democratic challenger Corey O'Connor Republican business owner Thomas West Learn more about the sponsors of this May 5th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Liberty Magic Fulton Commons Perrico Gardens 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.

May 5, 202552 min

Power Outages, a Pens Shakeup & What To Do for Marathon Weekend

Thousands of people are still without power after a big storm blew through the Pittsburgh region. City Cast Pittsburgh host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor Meg St-Esprit are sharing the latest on the recovery efforts. Plus, they're discussing the return of a certain giant duck and a beloved music venue, marathon lore, and sad news for anyone who associates summer in Pittsburgh with the Point State Park Fountain. Notes and references from today’s show: Emergency declaration issued for Allegheny County, Shapiro addresses efforts in western Pa. [WTAE] Western Pa. buildings offer charging stations, supplies, shelter after storms [TribLive] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] The World's Largest Rubber Duck Is Returning to Western PA [Pittsburgh Magazine] No flow: The Point's iconic fountain to stay dry in 2025 amid upgrades [TribLive] New outdoor space 'Arts Landing' breaks ground in Downtown Pittsburgh [90.5 WESA] Yinz Run Club's Marathon Events [Yinz Run Club] Penguins, 10-year coach Mike Sullivan mutually agree to part ways [The Athletic] Club Cafe bought by Keystone Artist Connect, will reopen this summer [NEXTpittsburgh] CMU international students restored, as Pittsburgh higher ed responds to Trump moves [PublicSource] Chatham University President to Depart, Interim Named [Pittsburgh Magazine] Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 2nd episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic Union Project 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.

May 2, 202544 min

Your Guide to May 2025 in Pittsburgh

If you're into weird Pittsburgh history, women's soccer, or local music, this is the month for you! The City Cast Pittsburgh team is sharing our favorite ways to explore the city in May, from snagging a free beer on your bike ride to work to trying strawberry pretzel salad-inspired dishes. And if you're looking for even more to do this spring, check out our roundup of the best food and drink festivals. 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. Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. City Cast Pittsburgh's Guide to May is made possible by our awesome sponsors: Pittsburgh Opera, Liberty Magic, Union Project, and Aura Frames (get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST). Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here. Reach us at [email protected].

May 1, 202534 min

Why Independent Voters Don't Get a Say in Pittsburgh's Mayoral Primary

The mayoral primary is right around the corner, but just because you're registered to vote doesn't mean you'll get to choose a candidate. Pennsylvania is one of only 10 states with a closed primary system, which means independents and third-party voters get left out of the process. Spotlight PA's Kate Huangpu shares a few theories about why we're seeing such a sharp rise in independent voters and whether the state legislature might consider opening up our primaries. Want to learn more? Tune into SpotlightPA's webinar about our closed primary system on May 6. Check your voter registration status and party affiliation on Allegheny County's voter registration page or through PA Voter Services. Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.Learn more about the sponsors of this April 30th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic Union Project 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.

Apr 30, 202518 min

Your Etiquette Guide to Farmers Markets in Pittsburgh

It's time to grab your reusable tote bags and head over to the local farmers market! The Bloomfield Saturday Market opens this weekend — it's a go-to spot for fresh seasonal produce, artisanal cheese, and delicious baked goods. But farmers markets offer more than just goodies. They're also gathering places where you can connect with vendors to get the most out of your shopping experience. To kick off the season, we're bringing back a conversation with Christina Howell, executive director of the Bloomfield Development Corporation and former market manager. Host Megan Harris asks all your burning etiquette questions, like if it's appropriate to haggle for a tomato or ask vendors for recipes. The Bloomfield Saturday Market runs weekly May 3 through November 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Find the full list of vendors at Bloomfield, and check out the city's website for more markets around Pittsburgh. **This episode originally published on May 4, 2023. Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 29th episode: Cozy Earth - Use code COZYPITTSBURGH for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic Union Project 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.

Apr 29, 202521 min

Why Thomas West Wants To Be Pittsburgh's Next Mayor

Welcome back to "Mayoral Mondays!" We're asking all four mayoral candidates why they're the right person to lead Pittsburgh. This week, Host Megan Harris is talking to Thomas West, the only candidate who's a newcomer to politics. West has owned TRIM, a clothing store in Lawrenceville, for 11 years, and he's also worked as a producer for WPXI and WTAE. This episode is the third installment in our "Mayoral Mondays" series. Next week, we'll be talking to the final mayoral candidate, former police officer Tony Moreno. Plus, listen to our previous installments. Incumbent Mayor Ed Gainey makes his pitch for why he deserves a second term, and Democratic challenger Corey O'Connor explains why he wants to be Pittsburgh's next mayor. Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 28th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Liberty Magic Union Project 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.

Apr 28, 202545 min

NFL Draft Jobs, a New Rail Trail & Bringing Small Biz to Downtown

What will it take to get a grocery store downtown? Maybe Gov. Josh Shapiro has ideas!! He was in town a week after the arson attack on the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion touring coffee shops and other pop-up businesses as part of a collection of incentive programs championed by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, which is hoping to fill space in over 60 vacant retail spaces between now and next year’s NFL Draft. Halfway through our Mayoral Mondays series, we’re taking stock of Pittsburgh’s primary election for mayor, including our takeaways so far from talking to the Democratic candidates, plus the latest on our city’s financial position and an anti-Gainey mailer that some call a dog whistle. We’ve also got good news for outdoor lovers: a new pedestrian rail trail over the Allegheny River into Aspinwall and the return of Venture Outdoors’ kayak launch — this time, Downtown near the convention center. Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Notes and references from today’s show: Get To Know Pittsburgh Candidate and Mayor Ed Gainey [City Cast Pittsburgh] Get To Know Pittsburgh Mayoral Candidate Corey O'Connor [City Cast Pittsburgh] Gainey, trailing O’Connor in polls, tries to nationalize the race for Pittsburgh mayor [WESA] Pittsburgh community leaders denounce controversial mayoral campaign mailer [WTAE] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] Shapiro says he plans to return to Pennsylvania Governor's Residence after firebombing attack [KDKA] Exclusive: Shapiro talks Downtown progress and NFL draft [Axios] Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership: State of Downtown Pittsburgh Q2 [YouTube] 2026 NFL Draft Source Program Application [NFL Draft Suppliers] Former Brilliant Branch rail line a 'blank canvas' for public trails, economic growth [TribLive] Pittsburgh’s Venture Outdoors to Launch a Downtown Community Kayak Hub [Pittsburgh Magazine] Learn more about the sponsors of this April 25th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Perrico Gardens Allegheny County Cozy Earth - Use code COZYPITTSBURGH for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. 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.

Apr 25, 202536 min

What ‘The Pitt’ Gets Right About Pittsburgh

The hottest new medical drama is set in Pittsburgh! Max's "The Pitt" just wrapped its first season, which follows a 15-hour shift at the fictional Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center (aka Allegheny General Hospital). But just how "Pittsburgh" is the show? The City Cast Pittsburgh team is sharing our favorite local homages and Easter eggs, guessing which neighborhoods the characters might live in, and discussing the authenticity of nurse Dana's yinzer accent. Plus, a local healthcare worker tells us whether the show feels true to life. "The Pitt" is coming back to town later this year to film its second season. What Pittsburgh storylines or references would you like to see? Leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Note: If you haven't already watched the Pitt, we save spoilers for the second half of the episode! Notes and references from today’s show: How Real Doctors Brought 'The Pitt' To Life [Science Friday] Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm Learn more about the sponsors of this April 24th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Perrico Gardens Allegheny County 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.

Apr 24, 202547 min

Will PA Legalize Cannabis in 2025?

This past weekend, Pittsburghers had a lot to celebrate. Easter, Passover, and of course, the other high holy day: 4/20. And we like to think that some of our state lawmakers got in on the fun too! A couple of representatives, including Pittsburgh rep. Emily Kinkead, wrote a new memo about how recreational cannabis could get legalized. This debate over legalization has come up over and over again here in Pennsylvania, so we're revisiting host Megan Harris' conversation with SpotlightPA reporters Ed Mahon and Stephen Caruso to figure out the political climate, the potential hurdles, and exactly how cannabis sales could even work. **This episode originally aired on January 27, 2025. Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Notes and references from today’s show: A handful of Pa. doctors approved 1/3 of medical pot cards in a single year. Experts question the quality of care. [Spotlight PA] Prior misconduct rarely an obstacle for doctors in Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program [Spotlight PA] Spotlight PA investigation spurs call for more oversight of who can be a medical marijuana doctor [Spotlight PA] Thousands more Pennsylvania medical professionals could approve cannabis patients under proposals [Spotlight PA] Legal cannabis likely won’t be in this year’s budget, but supporters say there’s a silver lining [Spotlight PA] Learn more about the sponsors of this April 23rd episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Perrico Gardens Allegheny County 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.

Apr 23, 202528 min

25 Festivals and Markets to Kick Off Your Pittsburgh Spring

It's spring market and festival season! There are so many great options around town, from crop swaps to vintage clothing markets to a donut-fueled bike fest. Host Megan Harris and newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco are sharing their favorites, including a market where everything — and we mean everything — is free. Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 22nd episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYPITTSBURGH for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Perrico Gardens Allegheny County 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.

Apr 22, 202527 min

Why Corey O'Connor Wants To Be Pittsburgh's Next Mayor

There are four candidates in Pittsburgh's mayoral race, and we're asking each person why they think they're the right person to lead our city. This week, Host Megan Harris is talking with Corey O'Connor. He's served as Allegheny County Controller — the county’s top financial watchdog — since 2022, and was an elected member of City Council for over 10 years in District 5. He's also the son of our late former Mayor Bob O'Connor. This is the second installment of our "Mayoral Mondays" series. Stay turned over the next month as we talk to the Republican candidates — former police officer Tony Moreno and Lawrenceville small business owner Thomas West. Plus, listen to part one, where incumbent Mayor Ed Gainey makes his pitch for why he deserves a second term. Get more from City Cast Pittsburgh when you become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 21st episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Pittsburgh Opera Perrico Gardens Allegheny County 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.

Apr 21, 202556 min

Shapiro Attack, Paid Sick Leave & Why Data Centers Matter to Pittsburgh

What exactly is a data center, and why does Pittsburgh have so many? We're sharing the latest on the arson attack against Gov. Josh Shapiro at the official mansion in Harrisburg; why the two men who jumped off PPG Place didn't break any records; and how you can (hopefully) get your Bucco Brick replaced by the Pirates. Plus, the city is considering expanding paid sick leave, and the ACLU is suing the University of Pittsburgh over alleged violations of students' First Amendment rights. Thanks to Axios Pittsburgh reporter Chrissy Suttles for joining us! Notes and references from today’s show: Tracking data centers in Pittsburgh [Axios Pittsburgh] Data centers to test limits of grid and growth [Axios Pittsburgh] Fracking rebirth powers more data centers [Axios Pittsburgh] Energy demand powers appetite for grid gear [Axios Pittsburgh] Police seek pair who parachuted from PPG Place rooftop [TribLive] ON THIS DAY: May 18, 1986, Two BASE jumpers arrested after leaping off U.S. Steel Tower [WPXI] What to know about Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and the alleged arson at his official residence [AP News] Arson suspect was angry with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro over Palestinian stance, search warrants say [NBC News] Independent expert will review security at Gov. Josh Shapiro’s official residence after arson attack [Spotlight PA] Pittsburgh City Council will consider bill to expand paid sick days [WESA] Pittsburgh EMS union sues city over residency requirement [TribLive] Pennsylvania Supreme Court hears oral arguments in 'jock tax' case [WESA] ACLU sues Pitt, alleging free speech violations against pro-Palestinian student group [WESA] Students for Justice in Palestine at Pitt v. University of Pittsburgh [ACLU of Pennsylvania] Pirates to offer owners of "Bucco Bricks" a free replica of their keepsake [KDKA] 'Bucco Bricks' controversy continues after sidewalk replacement project is approved [WTAE] Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Franklin Street Market Liberty Magic 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.

Apr 18, 202537 min

How To Explore Pittsburgh's 176 Parks

Pittsburgh has 176 parks, and each one offers something special. City Cast producer Sophia Lo is with Matthew Hileman, the director of operations and visitor engagement at the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, to talk about the best parks for gorgeous views, a romantic date night, birdwatching, and more. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Franklin Street Market Liberty Magic 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.

Apr 17, 202525 min

Can a Shot-and-a-Beer City Also Be a Wine Town?

Pittsburgh's wine scene is growing and improving, thanks to dedicated sommeliers, importers, and educators. Whether you're a newbie or a wine connoisseur, there's a spot for you to soak in the vibes while sipping from a fancy stemmed glass. Host Megan Harris is running through a few of our region's best wine bars with Discover the Burgh's Jeremy Jones and culinary educator Kanika Rautji, aka The Indian Somm. And if you don't even know where to get started, Kanika's got a few questions to help you decide what wine you might like to try. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 16th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Franklin Street Market Liberty Magic 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.

Apr 16, 202528 min

The 13 Types of People Who Might Not Make It in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a prideful place. The skyline, the pierogi, the claim to ketchup development and the steel that built the U.S.! But if you're the kind of person who enjoys sunshine or thinks Mr. Rogers is creepy, we might not be the place for you. Host Megan Harris is with Pittsburgh City Paper’s Ali Trachta and Stacy Rounds to talk about the 13 people who ain’t gonna make it in Pittsburgh. **This episode originally aired November 18, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 14th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Cozy Earth - Use code COZYPITTSBURGH for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Franklin Street Market Liberty Magic 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.

Apr 15, 202517 min

Why Ed Gainey Wants To Stay Pittsburgh's Mayor

Four men are vying to lead the city of Pittsburgh, so ahead of the primary on May 20, we're asking each of them to tell us why they think they're the best person for the job. We're kicking things off with our current mayor, Ed Gainey. He served in the state house for almost a decade and, in 2021, became the only challenger to ever beat out an incumbent mayor. We talk to Gainey about his biggest achievements and challenges in office so far, and why he believes he deserves another term. This is the first installment of our new "Mayoral Mondays" series. Stay turned over the next month as we talk to Gainey’s Democratic challenger, County Controller Corey O'Connor, as well the Republican candidates — former police officer Tony Moreno and Lawrenceville small business owner Thomas West. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 14th episode: Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Franklin Street Market Liberty Magic 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.

Apr 14, 202545 min

Bucco Bricks, Trash Emergencies & Great News for 'The Pitt' Stans

Should Governor Shapiro declare a state of emergency to deal with Pittsburgh's trash? One city councilor sure thinks so. Pirates' leadership keeps finding ways to enrage fans and the new airport terminal got a little more expensive. Plus, some international students at Pitt and CMU had their visas revoked and the twists and turns keep coming in Nippon's bid to buy U.S. Steel. All that and more on the Friday news roundup. Notes and references from today’s show: Trash talk leads to discussion at Pittsburgh City Council on illegal dumping and litter [WESA] Ew! Pittsburgh council member warns skeptics trash emergency is not rubbish [TribLive] How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] US Steel hits 52-week high after Trump orders new security review of Nippon Steel bid [AP News] Trump's changing stance on Nippon Steel bid adds confusion, sends US Steel shares lower [Reuters] Activist Ancora drops U.S. Steel campaign after Trump orders review of Nippon Steel bid [Reuters] 2 students, 5 recent grads from Carnegie Mellon University have visas revoked [WPXI] University of Pittsburgh student, 2 recent graduates have visas revoked [WPXI] Suspended by Pitt, SJP and the ACLU weigh legal action [Pittsburgh City Paper] CMU president pens letter addressing federal funding turmoil, China ties [WESA] ACLU demands University of Pittsburgh lift suspension of student group supporting Palestine [TribLive] ‘The Pitt’ Season 2 Reveals A Surprisingly Close Release Date [Forbes] New Pittsburgh Airport terminal cost now pegged at $1.7B as project nears completion [TribLive] Big Fight Aht: Video shows brawl in stands of Pat McAfee's Pittsburgh appearance [TribLive] Removed Bucco Bricks from Pittsburgh's PNC Park found dumped at recycling facility [KDKA] Big News: Page's Ice Cream Truck Coming Soon [Instagram] Learn more about the sponsors of this April 11th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra 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.

Apr 11, 202536 min

Your Guide to Mexican Food in Pittsburgh

The Mexican food scene in Pittsburgh is growing, and you have so many options whether you want to stop by a taco truck or sit down for brunch and chilaquiles. We're revisiting host Megan Harris' conversation with Oscar Zapata, who moved here from Mexico City for grad school. He's sharing his go-to spots when he craves a taste of home, and he rounded up some of these restaurants for the Pittsburgh Independent. **This episode originally aired on July 13, 2023. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra 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.

Apr 10, 202515 min

The Pittsburgh Job No One Wants

Five different people have led the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police over the past two and a half years — all under a single mayor — and it's still not clear when we're getting a new, permanent, top cop. What's going on with the police department, and what does this “revolving door” of local chiefs say about the city? We're with University of Pittsburgh law professor David Harris, who’s served on multiple committees to choose Pittsburgh’s police chief, to talk about the leaders from our recent past; recruitment and retention challenges facing us in the present; and how a new process passed by City Council could influence us well into the future. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 9th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra 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.

Apr 9, 202530 min

How Billions in Medical Cuts Would Hurt Pittsburgh

Our region is facing billions of dollars in cuts to medical care and research by the Trump administration. The decisions made today will have far-reaching effects for decades to come — for the patients who rely on Medicaid, for the scientists researching medical treatments and cures, and for a city whose identity is built around eds and meds. We're joined by three local doctors to talk about the very real impacts if funding goes away and the work they're doing to try and prevent that from happening. Thank you to our guests: Dr. Gabriel Cisneros, pediatrician with UPMC Children Community Pediatrics Dr. Marian Jarlenski, professor of public health at the University of Pittsburgh Dr. Adam Mueller, assistant professor of radiation oncology at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center Learn more about their group: PGHerS - Pittsburgh Healthcare Workers and Scientists. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 8th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra 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.

Apr 8, 202528 min

Why are Potholes So Bad in Pittsburgh?

Potholes are a plague this time of year in Pittsburgh, but what does it take to fill them? How many get patched, and what can regular people do to speed the process along? We’re taking all your nebby questions to Bill Crean, deputy director for the city’s Department of Public Works – including the worst neighborhoods and weirdest requests he’s gotten in his 40ish years on the job! Call 311 to report a pothole to the city, or use their mobile app. For the county, call 412-350-INFO (4636) or visit CallCenter.AlleghenyCounty.us. If you need to report a hole in a state-owned road, use PennDOT’s Customer Care Center or call 1-800-FIX-ROAD. And if you don’t know who owns your road, both the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County have maps to help you out. Learn more about the sponsors of this April 7th episode: Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra 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.

Apr 7, 202517 min

AI Parking Tickets, A Braddock Comeback & City Council’s Snoozefest

America’s first Carnegie library is nearing the end of a $21 million renovation, and we got to neb nose all over the 45,000-square-foot space. Hear all about the history of the Braddock Carnegie Library, plus what they’ve got in store for their own opening day in May. Plus, we’re catching you up on big stories from the week: for the first time in a century, city voters won’t have any choices on their primary ballots for City Council; the trial began to determine who’s responsible for paying settlement money after the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio; Nippon Steel has upped its offer to buy U.S. Steel, while an activist investor tries to oust the U.S. Steel board and CEO; local health and safety NIOSH workers have been hit by federal layoffs; Steelers legend Cam Heyward laughs off an offer to hang out with QB Aaron Rodgers; Homer City is turning an old coal plant into a natural gas-powered facility to help feed the local power grid; and with the return of street-sweeping season comes new AI tools to issue tickets to anyone who doesn’t get their car out of the way. Notes and references from today’s show: Braddock Carnegie Library renovations near completion [90.5 WESA] Braddock Carnegie Library capital campaign [BCLA] Check out the “Free for All: The Public Library" screening in Cranberry. [CPL] Test your knowledge of Pittsburgh history and current events. [Hey Pittsburgh] Judge boots off ballot 2 Dems running for Kail-Smith's Pittsburgh council seat [TribLive] Make Your Voice Heard! 2025 Funding Crisis [Pittsburgh Regional Transit] ACT NOW: Stop Catastrophic Service Cuts [Pittsburghers for Public Transit] Nippon, US Steel offer increased investment to Trump officials to close deal [Semafor] President Biden Blocks US Steel Sale to Nippon Steel. What Does This Mean for Pittsburgh? [Hey Pittsburgh] Trial will determine who pays settlement money for Norfolk Southern train derailment [AP] How the Train Derailment Changed East Palestine [City Cast Pittsburgh] The Curious Case of Aaron Rodgers [The Ringer] Cam Heyward on Aaron Rodgers and a darkness retreat [Instagram] Federal HHS layoffs hit NIOSH mine-safety research facility near Pittsburgh [90.5 WESA] Homer City site: Large gas-fired power plant to support data center [TribLive] Three Mile Island Returns, Primanti’s Gets Political & How PA Unbanned Pittsburgh Rodeos [City Cast Pittsburgh] Street sweeping resumes in Pittsburgh using cameras, AI to issue parking tickets [KDKA] Learn more about the sponsor of this April 4th episode: History UnErased 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.

Apr 4, 202534 min

Why Pirates Fans Want Bob Nutting To Abandon Ship

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You may have seen the billboards, the T-shirts, that one angry dude sitting behind home plate at another team’s playoff game — because there are some really frustrated Pirates fans out there. With the new season already off to a slow start and our home opener against the Yankees set for tomorrow, we’re sitting down with a few of the rabble-rousers behind Our Team, Not His who say the time is now to convince Pirates owner Bob Nutting to sell the team. Not just for fans, but for taxpayers and anyone else who wants to see the whole city succeed. Thanks to our guests Gabe Mazefsky, Marc Datz, and Canyon Swartz. Notes and references from today’s show: Dear Bob Nutting, please bring Dad and me a World Series — or sell to someone who can [PublicSource] Sister Sledge - We Are Family (Official Music Video) [Rhino/YouTube] David Rubenstein looks back on his first year as owner of the Baltimore Orioles [NPR] Pittsburgh fans get in Johnny Cueto's head… [8-Bit Sports/YouTube] Learn more about the sponsor of this April 3rd episode: History UnErased 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.

Apr 3, 202528 min

Lo que realmente ocurre durante una redada de ICE

Desde que asumió la presidencia en enero, Donald Trump ha priorizado la ejecución de la ley migratoria y la deportación, estableciendo cuotas de arrestos a nivel nacional y provocando un creciente pánico entre las comunidades inmigrantes de Pittsburgh. City Cast Pittsburgh habló con Vanessa Stine, abogada sénior de la ACLU de Pensilvania, para saber qué sucede durante una detención o redada de ICE, qué derechos tienen los inmigrantes independientemente de su estatus legal y cómo los testigos pueden ayudar durante un encuentro con ICE. Para más información, se puede consultar esta guía – "Conozca sus derechos" – de la ACLU de Pensilvania. Para más ayuda, se puede contactar a Casa San José: 412-343-3111.

Apr 2, 202510 min

What Actually Happens During an ICE Raid?

Since taking over in January, the new Trump administration has made immigration enforcement and deportation a priority — even orchestrating high profile arrests of university students — leading to growing fear and confusion in Pittsburgh's immigrant communities. Vanessa Stine, senior staff attorney for the ACLU of Pennsylvania, joins us to explain what happens during an ICE stop or raid, what rights immigrants have regardless of their legal status, and how bystanders can help during an ICE encounter. Looking for more help and resources? The ACLU of Pennsylvania has Know Your Rights guides available in English and Spanish. If you believe you've witnessed ICE activity in the Pittsburgh area or have any other concerns, you can call the main line at Casa San José: 412-343-3111. If you are experiencing ICE detention, you can call their emergency response line: 412-736-7167. Find the latest data on ICE arrests and removals at TRAC. Learn more about the sponsor of this April 2nd episode: History UnErased 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.

Apr 2, 202529 min

Your Guide to April 2025 in Pittsburgh

The days are longer, we’re starting to see pink blooms and green buds, and Pittsburgh is coming to life for the spring! There’s so many ways to get out and about, from watching 10,000 rubber ducks bob around Lake Elizabeth to doing yoga with pigs. Plus, you can pick up mini Heinz ketchup bottles, drink tomato beer, and meet your favorite mascots on 412 Day. And if the nicer weather has you wanting to grab food for a picnic in the park, don't miss our episode about the best pizza in Pittsburgh. 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 March is made possible by our awesome sponsor, History UnErased. 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].

Apr 1, 202530 min

6 Freebies You Can Snag With Your Library Card

National Library Week starts April 6, but there are so many reasons for checking out our county’s libraries all year long. Obviously, you can check out books, but your library card also gets you everything from power tools to ukuleles to lawn games. We’re bringing back a conversation between City Cast’s Mallory Falk and Francesca Dabecco, where they dive into the catalogues to explore all the collections and services available at our local libraries. **This episode originally published May 30, 2023. Learn more about the sponsor of this March 31st episode: History UnErased 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.

Mar 31, 202514 min

New Park Toilets, County Wins & One Scandalous PA Judge

Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato gave her quarterly address to County Council, and while there’s a lot of uncertainty around funding, there are also things to celebrate. Like more bathrooms in the parks! But if you see any downed birds, be mindful of bird flu and please don’t touch. Biden’s outgoing pardons are back in the news — including one granted to a judge convicted in the ‘Kids for Cash’ scandal — and we’re taking a dive into autopen lore. Plus, we’re recapping Pennsylvania’s special elections, celebrating the start of the Pirates new season and fewer potholes at Pittsburgh Mills, and it’s time to apply to be a lifeguard for both city and county pools. Notes and references from today’s show: Allegheny County Council Regular Address — March 25, 2025 [YouTube] ACT NOW: Stop Catastrophic Service Cuts [Pittsburghers for Public Transit] What's an autopen, and does it void Biden's pardons? [NPR] The Autopen: How the Robotic Pen Has Changed Presidential History [Shapell] Biden’s Commutation in ‘Kids for Cash’ Scandal Angers Some Pennsylvania Families [AP] Justice in ‘Kids-for-Cash’ Scheme & PA’s Trip to Legalize Psychedelics [City Cast Pittsburgh] The MySpace Misdemeanor [Crime Show] Democrats keep control of Pennsylvania House with election win; GOP Senate district sees close race [AP News] Site of former Donny’s Place gay bar isn’t historic, Pittsburgh planners agree [PublicSource] Pittsburgh Mills pothole patching underway, but legal troubles seem unlikely to disappear [TribLive] Multiple families of trans kids denied gender-affirming medications at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh [The Pitt News] Tell UPMC: Stop Doing Trump’s Bidding Rally [Instagram] Pittsburgh parks department hopes to open all 18 pools this summer [WESA] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 28th episode: Pittsburgh Opera History UnErased 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.

Mar 28, 202540 min

Did Fetterman Dupe Progressive Voters?

Everyone knows John Fetterman here in Western PA — he was the Democratic mayor of nearby Braddock, rose to lieutenant governor under Tom Wolf, and now he’s the commonwealth’s senior U.S. Senator — in part, because he rode a progressive blue wave. But these days, the Harvard-educated AmeriCorps alum is increasingly aligned with MAGA Republicans. Ahead of a ticketed event in Pittsburgh this weekend, we’re teaming up with City Cast Philly’s Matt Katz and Philadelphia Inquirer political reporter Julia Terruso to talk about Fetterman’s evolving priorities and what they could mean for us here in Pennsylvania. Fetterman’s event will be co-hosted by fellow U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick (R-PA) to promote McCormick’s new book about mentorship, “Who Believed in You.” The location is still TBD, possibly because some groups in Pittsburgh are planning to protest. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Free Store, founded in 2012 by Gisele Barreto Fetterman, who is also on the schedule to attend. Former Congressman Conor Lamb, who lost the Democratic primary against Fetterman in 2022, has been a vocal critic of Fetterman’s lately. He’s holding his own town hall in State College on Saturday with the Centre County Democratic Committee. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 27th episode: Pittsburgh Opera History UnErased 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.

Mar 27, 202525 min

Who Wants To Be Pittsburgh’s Mayor?

Four men are vying to be Pittsburgh’s next mayor – two Republicans and two Democrats – and there’s a lot of money in the mix. City Cast Pittsburgh’s Megan Harris is hanging with PublicSource political reporter Charlie Wolfson to talk about who is spending on which candidate, who isn’t fundraising at all, a funny new campaign ad, and what we should all be watching for with just eight weeks until the primary. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 26th episode: Pittsburgh Opera History UnErased 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.

Mar 26, 202522 min

Pittsburgh’s Best Local Gift Shops & Stores

When you need a present for someone, sure, you can grab a gift card or go to a big box store, but where’s the fun in that? City Cast Pittsburgh’s Megan Harris and Francesca Dabecco love shopping local and believe any business can be a gift shop! They’re sharing some of their favorite area gift shops and stores where you can both support small businesses and find a Pittsburgh-perfect present in a pinch. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 25th episode: Pittsburgh Opera History UnErased 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.

Mar 25, 202525 min

Pittsburgh’s Barely Growing. Could That Be a Good Thing?

New census data just dropped and the Pittsburgh region actually grew this year…by 0.001%. But does it really matter whether or not our city and metro area grow? And could there even be benefits to staying the same size? We’re revisiting a conversation with Chris Briem, a regional economist at the University of Pittsburgh's Center for Social and Urban Research, to find out. **This episode originally published October 16, 2023. If you enjoyed today's interview with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Director of Audience Experience, Erin Lynn, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 24th episode: Pittsburgh Opera History UnErased 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.

Mar 24, 202526 min

BONUS: Where to Run in Pittsburgh

Picking up a new habit can be scary! Especially if that new activity has you panting up Negley. But not every run in Pittsburgh has to be long, treacherous, or up a hill. We’ve got suggestions for flat spots to run, places where you can take a bathroom break, and trail runs that’ll make you feel like you’re way out of the city. Thanks to our guests: Donald Robinson, owner and coach at Global Human Performance in Point Breeze; and Dan Lampmann, founder and president of Yinz Run Club. Missed our first episode full of Donald and Dan’s tips? Listen to their advice 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.

Mar 21, 202515 min

Big Transit Cuts, PA’s Special Election & Dollywood Meets Kennywood

Pittsburgh’s got a lot to lose! If more state funding doesn’t come through, PRT announced they’ll have to make huge service cuts, like fully shutting down 41 bus routes and ending service after 11 p.m. Plus, the Trump administration’s threatening to close Pittsburgh’s HUD field office. Executive producer Mallory Falk and producer Sophia Lo discuss the latest. Plus, they explain why there might not be any competitive city council races on the primary ballot, how a special election will determine who controls the PA House, and why Kennywood and Dollywood are (kind of) having a crossover moment. Notes and references from today’s show: Information on PRT’s proposed service changes [Pittsburgh Regional Transit] What if Pittsburgh's Public Transit Went Away? [City Cast Pittsburgh] Stop Catastrophic Service Cuts [Pittsburghers for Public Transit] Chipped Ham Empanadas, Fancy Spaghetti O’s & More Food to Try This Spring [City Cast Pittsburgh] Can Inclusionary Zoning Fix Pittsburgh’s Housing Crisis? [City Cast Pittsburgh] Petition challenges mean Pittsburgh could have no contested Council races this spring [WESA] Who’s running in Pittsburgh, Allegheny County elections in 2025? [PublicSource] Majority control of Pennsylvania House hinges on special election in steel region near Pittsburgh [AP News] Pittsburgh’s HUD Field Office Could Be at Risk [City of Pittsburgh] Kennywood, Sandcastle, Idlewild set to be bought by Dollywood owners [TRIBLive] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 21st episode: Pittsburgh Opera Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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.

Mar 21, 202530 min

Chipped Ham Empanadas, Fancy Spaghetti O’s & More Food to Try This Spring

If you’re looking for new places to eat out this spring, tons of restaurants have been opening (or re-opening) around town! Executive producer Mallory Falk and producer Sophia Lo are sharing our shortlist of places we’re most excited to try, serving up everything from soup dumplings to vegetarian sloppy joes. Plus, we discuss the new lineup of deep-fried delights at PNC Park. Want more recommendations for what to eat at a Pirates game? Check out our episode about the best food at PNC Park. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 20th episode: Pittsburgh Opera Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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.

Mar 20, 202518 min

What if Pittsburgh's Public Transit Went Away?

Pittsburgh Regional Transit is meeting this week to talk about a proposal that could overhaul our entire local transportation system. Adam Smeltz, reporting for PublicSource, found the agency may increase fares, cut service, and scrap its Bus Line Redesign to address a possible $100 million deficit. He joins us to discuss how we ended up here and whether it’s still possible to stave off changes. PRT is releasing its official proposal tomorrow at 8:30am. Register here to watch online or catch it in person on the 5th floor of the Heinz 57 Center Downtown. If you enjoyed today's interview with Pittsburgh Opera's Director of Marketing and Communications, Chris Cox, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 19th episode: Pittsburgh Opera Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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.

Mar 19, 202526 min

Your Guide to Running in Pittsburgh

If you’re new to running, jogging, or even walking in and around the city — or trying to restart an old routine — we’ve got some great suggestions from a couple of local runners ready to help you get laced up and out the door. Thanks to our guests: Donald Robinson, owner and coach at Global Human Performance in Point Breeze; and Dan Lampmann, founder and president of Yinz Run Club. Hear their best insights about warm-ups, footwear, flat routes, running apps, expensive watches, races, trails, and why they think being a runner in Pittsburgh is one of the best things you can be. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 18th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens Pittsburgh Opera Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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.

Mar 18, 202525 min

Rooftop Tours, Terracotta Lions & Pgh’s Oil Boom

Everyone knows about New York City’s Wall Street, but back in the day, individual cities had their own stock exchanges. Our version of Wall Street was on Fourth Avenue, where City Cast Pittsburgh’s very own offices are! We're revisiting our conversation with author and historian Mark Houser about how we got that Wall Street in the first place and why those grand banks turned into those parking lots that we see today. **This episode originally published August 27, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 17th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens KESEM Pittsburgh Opera Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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.

Mar 17, 202516 min

Grumpy Bus Pickles, Vintage Kennywood & How To Get a Real ID

Make room in your wallet for your Real ID and your season passes for our local amusement parks, including Kennywood, Sandcastle, and Idlewild. We’re making the case for both — plus how and when to get them — and introducing yinz to Kennywood’s new-old mascot, Jeeters. Pittsburgh Regional Transit is using pickle cartoons to shame us for bad behavior on the buses and T stops. The University of Pittsburgh has issued a hiring freeze, and officials say it’s not entirely because of changes in federal policy and funding. Pittsburgh technology startups KEF Robotics and Swan are working with Ukraine on drone technology and testing on the front lines against Russia. The National Labor Relations Board is reviewing claims by the United Steelworkers union against U.S. Steel, but it’s not clear whether they can make an official ruling. And Pittsburgh’s Fringe Fest is coming! We’re sharing a bit about its history and how you can get involved. Notes and references from today’s show: How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [Hey Pittsburgh] How to Get Your Real ID in Pittsburgh [City Cast Pittsburgh] REAL ID Document Check [Commonwealth of Pennsylvania] Kennywood's Steel Curtain roller coaster won't be ready for 2025 opening day [WTAE] Kennywood knew Steel Curtain would be closed before asking people to buy season passes: lawsuit [KDKA] Jeeter’s Instagram Account [Instagram] Rider Etiquette Pickle Campaign [PRT] America Turns to Ukraine to Build Better Drones [Wall Street Journal] Steelworkers' union accuses U.S. Steel of discouraging workers from speaking out against company sale [KDKA] How Trump’s Firings “Paralyze” the NLRB [Mother Jones] The University of Pittsburgh orders a hiring freeze for faculty, staff [WESA] Pitt says hiring freeze not entirely Trump’s fault [PublicSource] Pittsburgh Fringe Festival 2025 Shows [Pittsburgh Fringe] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 14th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens KESEM 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.

Mar 14, 202533 min

Who Makes PA's Best Potato Chips?

National Potato Chip Day is this Friday! So the City Cast Pittsburgh crew is crunching it up with our friends at City Cast Philly to taste test as many PA-made potato chips as we can find, explore how the commonwealth became the “potato chip capital of the world,” and choose our favorites in the first ever (maybe?) Chippy Awards. Special thanks to all the PA brands we tried, including nationally distributed Wise, Utz, and Herr’s, plus more regionally available Rap Snacks, Dieffenbach’s (or Uglies), and Snyder of Berlin. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 13th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens KESEM 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.

Mar 13, 202527 min

10 Pro-Tips for Living in Pittsburgh

Just like every other city, we have our quirks and unwritten rules. Like why is someone turning left instead of yielding to me at the green light? And what’s up with that rickety old chair sitting in front of my neighbor’s house? The City Cast Pittsburgh team is sharing our essential rules for surviving and thriving in the city. If you enjoyed today's interview with Pittsburgh Opera's Director of Marketing and Communications, Chris Cox, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 12th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens KESEM 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.

Mar 12, 202529 min

How To Run for Office in Pittsburgh

Today is the deadline to declare yourself an official candidate in Pennsylvania, and it’s never too soon to start planning for future elections. We’re with Spotlight PA’s Min Xian to talk about what you need to know if you want to run for elected office here in Allegheny County, plus why it’s so important for regular people to bring an “amateur” spirit to the more than 13,000 elected positions in the commonwealth, including hundreds that go unfilled or unopposed every election cycle. Want to run before the May 20 primary? There’s still time for a write-in campaign. Check your eligibility with the Allegheny County Board of Elections and your registration — that deadline is May 5 — with PA.gov. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 11th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens KESEM 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.

Mar 11, 202521 min

The Best Spots in Pittsburgh To Take Visitors

Got spring breakers coming to visit you soon? You may have already taken your friends and family to the Carnegie Museums and admired the skyline from Mt. Washington, but there’s so much more for tourists to take in. We’re bringing back our conversation with City Cast Pittsburgh contributor and travel writer Meg St-Esprit, who’s sharing all the spots she takes visitors — from the first-timers to the folks who come by every year. Check out Meg’s City Paper story about Pittsburgh boat tours. **This episode originally aired November 27, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 10th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens KESEM 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.

Mar 10, 202521 min

Potholes, Political Football & Federal Cuts Hit Home

Pittsburgh’s acting police chief, Christopher Ragland, is stepping down just a few months after taking over the bureau (and just a few weeks after he was nominated to become permanent chief). Host Megan Harris and producer Sophia Lo discuss the latest development in the ongoing saga. Plus, they share how the state and county are trying to help federal workers who’ve been laid off, why public library use is up while public transit use is down, and one crafty and extremely Pittsburgh way people are measuring potholes at a local mall. Notes and references from today’s show: Federal workers: US announced job cuts surge 245% in February on federal government layoffs [Reuters] How NIH cuts could stall Pittsburgh's economy [Axios Pittsburgh] At Steelworkers HQ, Deluzio and Lee speak with Pitt researchers about impact of NIH funding cuts [WESA] 3 Western Pa. federal buildings listed, then removed, to be closed or sold [TribLive] Employees cut by feds could get Pa., Allegheny County jobs [TribLive] From psychosis to sleep to drug resistance, these Pittsburgh research efforts are threatened by Trump spending cuts, orders [PublicSource] Trump administration plans to cut 80,000 employees from Veterans Affairs, according to internal memo [AP] JOBS: Career Opportunities for Impacted Federal Workers [Allegheny County] JOBS: Continue Your Public Service with the Commonwealth [Commonwealth of Pennsylvania] Acting police chief resigns: Mayor Ed Gainey's pick for Pittsburgh police chief, Christopher Ragland, is withdrawing name, leaving force [KDKA] Leadership vacuum: Ragland withdraws as Pittsburgh police chief candidate, plans to retire [TribLive] Pittsburgh City Council members say 'good riddance' to former acting police chief in ethics debate [WESA] Police Chief Out, Broken Vending Machines, & Big Bucks for Downtown [City Cast Pittsburgh] Library & PRT: Pittsburgh's Carnegie Library sees rise in patrons, but worries about balancing books in the future [WESA] Pittsburgh Regional Transit service report shows minor ridership drop [Pittsburgh Union Progress] Annual Service Report [Pittsburgh Regional Transit] What else we’re thinking about: How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh? Take This Quiz! [City Cast Pittsburgh] Pittsburgh Mills potholes — much frustration, few answers [TribLive] A young great horned owl is rescued after falling down 100 feet from its Pittsburgh nest [KDKA] Waddle-ful News: The National Aviary is overjoyed to share the arrival of not one but TWO African Penguin chicks! [@national_aviary] Learn more about the sponsors of this March 7th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens City Theatre Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra KESEM 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.

Mar 7, 202539 min

Your Guide to Pittsburgh Fish Fries

Fish fry season is back! There are hundreds of fish fries in Pittsburgh and just a few short weeks to visit as many as possible. If you’re struggling to decide where to go, Pittsburgh hero Hollen Barmer has an idea for you: the Pittsburgh Lenten Fish Fry Map. With the help of Pittsburgh Code for Good volunteers, they’ve been updating it every year so the whole city can see at a glance who’s returning; which fries are open for lunch; which serve handmade pierogi, desserts, or vegan items; and so much more. **This episode originally aired February 22, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 6th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens City Theatre Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra KESEM 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.

Mar 6, 202517 min

Why Zombie Fans Care About Monroeville Mall

The retail giant Walmart bought the Monroeville Mall, and while it’s not clear what their plans are for the property, the mall holds a very important place in the hearts of George Romero fans who hope at least part of the building gets preserved. Host Megan Harris is with Axios Pittsburgh reporter Chrissy Suttles to talk about why the Monroeville Mall is an important zombie landmark and how folks are planning to honor our local film legacy for years to come. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 5th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens City Theatre Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra KESEM 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.

Mar 5, 202520 min

Free Thrift Store, De-ICE Ball & More Ways to Support Our Neighbors

While families all over our region try to make sense of big, potential funding cuts to local schools, it’s also not clear how refugee children and parents — many already in our region — will fare, thanks to freezes in federal resettlement money. The City Cast Pittsburgh team is talking about how folks have stepped up and ways you can funnel your frustration into some great local organizations, including a new, (free!) thrift store serving our LGBTQ community. Have another group that should go on our growing list of organizations that could use support right now? Let us know! Email us at [email protected]. Learn more about the sponsors of this March 4th episode: The Frick Pittsburgh Museums and Gardens City Theatre Fulton Commons Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Kesem 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.

Mar 4, 202521 min