Boise’s West End is filled with vacant lots, but not for long. The College of Western Idaho is teaming up with a private developer to bring its long-stalled Boise campus to life, sidestepping a major hurdle: voter approval. It’s a bold move, so host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by Idaho Statesman growth and development reporter Nick Rosenberger to break down what kind of ripple effect this development could have on the neighborhood. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter...
Jul 07, 2025•20 min
Lindsay Van Allen and all 12 other City Cast podcast hosts (from Austin, Chicago, DC, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Pittsburgh, Portland, and Salt Lake City) compete head-to-head in a high-stakes showdown to answer the question that’s been burning up our company-wide Slack for weeks: which city is the best for a summer weekend trip? From naked bike rides to ‘the country’s best farmers market,’ pickle festivals to Elvis impersonators driving pink convertibles, our hosts ...
Jul 03, 2025•48 min
Idaho’s strict abortion bans have made national headlines, and now a citizen-led initiative is fighting back. Idahoans United for Women & Families Executive Director Melanie Folwell joins host Lindsay Van Allen to explain what the campaign is doing to bring reproductive rights to the ballot, why the Idaho Supreme Court just sided with them, and how they’re trying to make up lost time in gathering signatures. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a ...
Jul 02, 2025•24 min
There is something magical about July in Boise: the days are long, the river is cool, and the sunsets are cinematic! Host Lindsay Van Allen, Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter, and friend of the show Rachel Spacek are here to help you make the most of the month. From Botanical Garden summer concerts, to breezy picnic hangouts, and the tastiest ways to beat the heat, their ideas are sure to kick off your summer bucket list. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter ...
Jul 01, 2025•29 min
Tucked between the river and the foothills, Barber Valley feels like Boise's backyard — where new high-density growth meets beloved trailhead living. Executive producer Frankie Barnhill turns the mic on host Lindsay Van Allen to see what all the hype is about and dig into what makes this area one of the city's most quietly compelling neighborhoods.Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Interested in ad...
Jun 30, 2025•25 min
It's been a news-packed week, so host Lindsay Van Allen and producer Frankie Barnhill are here to break down the biggest local stories. They dive into the controversial ‘Hetero Awesome Fest’ that raised more eyebrows than funds, thanks to a podcaster’s racist remarks. And a Utah senator seems set on pushing through a deeply unpopular public land sale proposal, while Idaho’s congressional delegation continues to catch flak for supporting “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Plus, Boise’s first professional ...
Jun 27, 2025•32 min
We’ve all heard the rumors that Hidden Springs is allegedly a hotspot for swingers, so we're separating fact from fantasy. Candice Cook and Erik Zink with the Impulsive Duo join host Lindsay Van Allen to pull back the curtain on everything you’ve wondered about non-monogamy in the Treasure Valley. She asks the couple how they navigate jealousy, misconceptions, and what the upside-down pineapple truly means.Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a ch...
Jun 26, 2025•24 min
Last week’s U.S. Supreme Court decision on trans rights has left many LGBTQ Idahoans wondering what the future holds, by exposing big questions about who gets to make deeply personal health care decisions. Jenna Damron from the ACLU of Idaho is breaking down what the decision means for trans kids in our state and what rights still exist after this ruling. Looking for more info? Jenna recommends checking out this site for info on patient support after the ruling, which includes resources for tran...
Jun 25, 2025•27 min
A proposal in Congress could force the sale of millions of acres of Idaho’s public lands, including parts of the Boise Foothills and some of the state’s most iconic peaks. That section of President Trump’s tax and spending cut bill is being framed as an affordable housing fix, but it’s not a guarantee that any of these acres would be used for housing—let alone affordable housing. Host Lindsay Van Allen is talking with Idaho Statesman opinion writer Bryan Clark to find out what could be lost if t...
Jun 24, 2025•30 min
When a protester engaged with a drag queen named Cookie Pusss at Canyon County Pride earlier this month, it seemed at first like any other video of a protester heckling a queer person. Instead, the queen asked a question that was so disarming, it completely flipped the script and even went viral on social media. JD Hawley, aka Cookie Puss, is joining host Lindsay Van Allen to unpack what led up to the tasty question, how that curiosity led to connection with the protester, and whether this appro...
Jun 23, 2025•20 min
City Cast hosts are on the pulse of what’s happening in our communities. So Lindsay Van Allen and all 12 other hosts sat down with City Cast CEO David Plotz to talk about creative local problem solving that might work in your hometown too and to commiserate about stressors affecting most of our cities, from unaffordable housing to bike lanes. Learn more about the sponsor of this June 20th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone...
Jun 20, 2025•1 hr 2 min
The Table Rock cross is a familiar part of our skyline. But its origins are tangled in an era of fear and secrecy, when city leaders targeted and arrested gay men — just for existing. So to help us mark Pride Month, we’re re-sharing a conversation our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter had with producer Frankie Barnhill — to peel back the curtain on this long forgotten scandal. Want some more Boise history? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a regular deep dive into the...
Jun 18, 2025•22 min
Driving in Boise feels like a constant whiplash between “after you” and “get out of my way!” So, what is behind all of this traffic chaos? Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by comedian and podcaster Matthew Melton and our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter to call out their most rage-inducing traffic gripes. From drivers being dangerously polite, to tailgaters on the connector, and Boiseans inability to manage a zipper merge — you might recognize these bad driver traits. Want some more Bois...
Jun 17, 2025•38 min
In a surprising development, the Idaho Democratic Party out-fundraised their Republican counterpart by a wide margin in 2024. Idaho Statesman reporter Sarah Cutler is sharing her reporting on fundraising gains in the party, and why rural districts are a new focus for them. Plus, how one Boise lawmaker with a legacy name is trying to reinvent the image of an Idaho Democrat. Want some more local political news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every w...
Jun 16, 2025•23 min
It’s Friday the 13th! So host Lindsay Van Allen is checking in with political scientist Charlie Hunt about President Trump’s fresh endorsement of Gov. Little, even though Little hasn’t announced whether he’s running in 2026. And the Idaho State Police gets cozy with ICE, just as pro-immigrant protests are popping off around the country. Meanwhile, another housing report ranked Boise as one of the worst cities for affordability and access. And we’re hyping up the West Valley Humane Society as the...
Jun 13, 2025•27 min
There's a restaurant in Caldwell where excellence simmers low and slow over an open fire. AMANO has redefined what is possible in the small town and is getting national attention for it, with James Beard Foundation nominations for four consecutive years. Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by owners Salvador and Becca Alamilla to dive into what makes a meal there so magical, and how the restaurant's new location is both modern and rooted in Mexican tradition. Want some more Boise news? Head over to...
Jun 12, 2025•22 min
This year’s college graduates are stepping into a tough job market, with recession rumors, AI-filtered interviews, and plenty of listings but few callbacks. So how are graduates feeling right now? Boise State University graduate Giselle Vega joins host Lindsay Van Allen to explain how she is navigating her job hunt, and why she’s looking for work in other states. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Inte...
Jun 11, 2025•21 min
There’s an art to navigating the Boise Farmers Market, and we’re letting you in on the secrets. From pre-order hacks, to things you need to grab before they sell out, to reasons to get in a long line — market executive director Amber Beierle is sharing her insider tips with host Lindsay Van Allen. Plus, we’re chatting about what this beloved weekly ritual reveals about our city’s changing identity. Come say hi to Lindsay and the rest of the City Cast Boise team this Saturday, June 14! We’ll be a...
Jun 10, 2025•27 min
When a teacher’s sign was deemed too political by the West Ada School District, Renaissance High School student Jeremiah Brenot decided he couldn’t remain silent — even if it meant risking his diploma. Today, he joins host Lindsay Van Allen to explain what pushed him to go off-script at graduation, why he challenged the administration, and what he hopes other students took away from his bold stance. For more on this story, listen to our interview with teacher Sarah Inama who resigned her West Ad...
Jun 09, 2025•20 min
We’re back with another edition of our Friday news roundup. Executive producer Frankie Barnhill joins host Lindsay Van Allen to discuss how federal budget cuts are already affecting our outdoor recreation options, with forest ranger stations closing just as summer begins to heat up. Then, they untangle Boise Pride rumors by setting the record straight on what’s actually canceled and what folks can expect in September. Plus, come meet Lindsay this weekend at Canyon County Pride! Want some more Bo...
Jun 06, 2025•28 min
Canyon County Pride is back, and it’s bigger and bolder than in 2024. But after a year where LGBTQ rights have been under fire, this year’s event is more than just a party. Executive Director Tom Wheeler joins host Lindsay Van Allen to give us a look inside how this year’s festival is growing and evolving. They talk about safety, acceptance, and what it means to celebrate queer joy in a conservative stronghold. Celebrate Canyon County Pride on Sunday, June 8 at Nampa’s Lakeview Park! Want some m...
Jun 05, 2025•26 min
Wolves were wiped out in Idaho nearly a century ago, then controversially reintroduced in the 1990s. Now, they are thriving — but the battle over the animal’s future is fiercer than ever. So host Lindsay Van Allen is digging into the political and cultural divides around wolves with the hosts of a new podcast called “Howl”. Reporters Heath Druzin and Clark Corbin are helping us understand what it means to share the Mountain West with these creatures, and who gets to decide their fate. Follow “Ho...
Jun 04, 2025•26 min
Forget fiscal constraint and local control: Idaho’s new wave of conservative lawmakers are pushing conspiracies and government overreach. Consultant Gregory Graf joins host Lindsay Van Allen to explain his viral, blistering critique of the state’s far-right political machine. Because if banning vaccines, bullying librarians, and punishing dissent is the new conservative playbook — what exactly are they conserving? Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get ...
Jun 03, 2025•30 min
Sarah Inama hung the poster intending to welcome every student to her West Ada School District classroom. Instead, when she was told to take the sign down by school administrators, it ignited a national firestorm. Now, the Meridian teacher is reflecting on the controversy she never wanted, and what spurred her to resign. What’s next for her? Host Lindsay Van Allen is finding out. Thanks to Brigade Screen Printing (who made the “Everyone is Welcome Here” t-shirt) for helping us out. Want some mor...
Jun 02, 2025•25 min
Before we head into the hot weekend, we’re taking a look at the local stories you need to know with Boise State Public Radio’s George Prentice. First up: Idaho hit pause on all executions, but just to prep for our firing squad future. Next, host Lindsay Van Allen gets the inside scoop from George on his final interview with Boise State University President Marlene Tromp, and they speculate about who might get the top job next. Plus, summer movie nights return to Meridian, bringing the perfect ex...
May 30, 2025•34 min
June in the Treasure Valley is stacked with good vibes and even better plans. Host Lindsay Van Allen and contributor Matthew Melton are here to help you make the most out of the month — from free riverside karaoke to joyful Pride celebrations and wild history tours. Plus, throw in a beloved restaurant reopening and a tasty new find, and you've got a month full of reasons to get out and explore. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to ...
May 29, 2025•35 min
“The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” is back for a second season. And while it’s entertaining to watch these women fight for views, brand deals, and MomTok’s survival — are they also showcasing some of Mormonism’s most uncomfortable truths? We’re re-sharing a chat our host Lindsay Van Allen had with City Cast Salt Lake’s Ali Vallarta to find out. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sp...
May 28, 2025•27 min
Valley Regional Transit is one of the only public transit systems with zero dedicated annual funding from the state. So, how does it operate with such limited funding — and what would it take to make riding the bus more popular? Host Lindsay Van Allen finds out in her conversation with VRT CEO Elaine Clegg. They dive into what last year’s route changes have meant for riders, why the City of Nampa is on the fence about funding, and how innovation is key to keeping things rolling. Want some more B...
May 27, 2025•26 min
Pride Month is around the corner, but one of Idaho’s biggest health systems is making a quiet and controversial shift. Our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter joins host Lindsay Van Allen with the scoop on an internal memo that reveals why St. Luke’s decided not to raise the inclusive Pride flag this year, even as the City of Boise stands firm. And, we’re breaking down local election results on everything from libraries to ambulances. Plus, our favorite ideas for soaking up the sunny Memori...
May 23, 2025•28 min
For years, Idaho quietly denied thousands of children the special education services that parents said they deserved, until a group of determined mothers decided to take a stand. Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by Decoding Dyslexia Idaho founder Robin Zikmund, and special education consultant Ashley Brittain. They explain how our state resisted reform and why parents had to take their fight all the way to the federal government. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter w...
May 22, 2025•26 min
