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City Cast Boise

City Castboise.citycast.fm
City Cast Boise is the award-winning daily news podcast that connects us to the city we love. With a companion newsletter, Hey Boise, it’s the place where curiosity and passion for Boise meet. Every weekday morning, our hosts will introduce you to your neighbors — from newcomers to born-and-raised Boiseans. It’s like eavesdropping on a great conversation overheard at your favorite downtown coffee shop, except in this case you’re invited to join in. We’ll engage with you online and on the podcast, with stories that spark passion and delight — but sometimes also frustration and anger. With a clear-eyed vision of the challenges and triumphs of our rapidly changing Boise, the podcast will make you feel more connected to this city we share. *1st place for “Best Interview” at Idaho Press Club 2024 Awards, in addition to 2nd place for "News Talk - Audio, and 3rd place for "Election Report - Audio".
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Episodes

Robocalls, Lawmakers Pack Up, and Don't Miss Boise on 'Antiques Roadshow'

It’s been a jam-packed week of news, so we’re breaking down the stories that stuck with us. Host Emma Arnold and lead producer Frankie Barnhill are getting the scoop on the final moments of the legislative session from contributor Jimmy Dawson. We’re talking out-sized influence of far-right groups, how we made national news (again), and why Antiques Roadshow in Boise is so delightful. Plus: Emma’s highly anticipated new comedy album is coming out Friday, April 28 and we’re celebrating at the VAC...

Apr 07, 202327 min

Against the Odds, This Boise Dance Studio Reopens

Ballet Folklorico Mexico Lindo Idaho has been sharing the art of Mexican folk dancing in Idaho for 20 years. But in 2020, Director Monique Michel made the difficult decision to close her studio, teaching classes in parks, garages and on Zoom. Now, the company is celebrating the grand opening of a dream studio in Boise. And despite the obstacles thrown her way, Monique shares how she worked to bring a safe space to her students wherever she could. Celebrate with Ballet Folklorico Mexico Lindo! Th...

Apr 06, 202320 min

How To Not Get Beat Up By A Goose This Spring

If you’ve ever had a close encounter of the goose kind, you know they can be real jerks. Our Hey Boise Newsletter Editor Blake Hunter is here to tell us why our geese are extra salty right now, and how to share the city with our Canadian friends without getting a wing to the face. Have you had a close encounter with a Boise goose? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city...

Apr 05, 202318 min

A Boise Novelist’s Take On Book Bans

Idaho politicians are targeting libraries and considering book bans, but plenty of Boiseans have rallied to support free access to books. One famous name in this effort? Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anthony Doerr. The novelist — whose recent book centers around libraries — spoke with Lead Producer Frankie Barnhill last fall. They talk about learning civic duty through borrowing public property, and why he thinks we need to do more to protect these public spaces. Want some more Boise stories? He...

Apr 04, 202322 min

Our Favorite Things About Boise Spring

It’s been a long, snowy and cold winter in Boise, so we’re ready to make the most of spring! Host Emma Arnold is chatting with Hey Boise Newsletter Editor Blake Hunter and Lead Producer Frankie Barnhill about our favorite springtime activities. We have takes on the best picnic spots, the prettiest blooms and where to be on Boise’s first 60-degree Saturday. What spring thing are you most excited about this year? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise tip...

Apr 03, 202319 min

Meridian Loves Libraries, ‘Abortion Trafficking’ Bill, and Boise Chefs Shine

All eyes are on the statehouse, as Idaho lawmakers hustle to wrap up the 2023 session. Things sped up quickly this week with a brand new bill that Republicans say will give doctors cover for giving life saving abortion care. Meanwhile, a bill that would define helping a minor get an abortion out of state as “human trafficking” made national headlines. And the Meridian Library District is safe, after a challenge to dissolve the system from a small conservative group was shut down. Plus, two Boise...

Mar 31, 202328 min

Is Boise’s Drought Finally Over?

It’s been a cold and snowy March. But what does that really mean for Boise’s water supply? Our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter is here to talk about how that extra snow and rain could impact our reservoirs, and whether we’re finally going to be out of our multi-year drought. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Can’t get enough of us?! We get it. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Interested in...

Mar 30, 202314 min

We Tried the ‘Idaho Potato Fry Ice Cream’ so You Don’t Have To

Everyone’s talking about it, so we had to know: is that Idaho Potato Malted Milkshake & Fries ice cream actually good? The City Cast Boise crew is taste testing it today so you can decide whether it’s worth the $12 a pint to purchase online. Plus, we decide what Boise-inspired flavor Van Leeuwen should make next. What do you think — would you try the milkshake and fries ice cream? Let us know what you think by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise food news? Head...

Mar 29, 202319 min

Lewiston Is Still Mad That Boise Stole the Capital

All eyes are on the statehouse in downtown Boise as lawmakers aim to wrap up the legislative session this week. But did you know that we actually stole the state’s seat of political power from Lewiston? We’re re-sharing our December chat with Boise State Public Radio’s James Dawson about why some North Idahoans are still feeling a little testy about this historical heist. Want some more Boise stories? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday m...

Mar 28, 202316 min

What Boise Gardeners Need To Know

The crocuses are coming out and the robins are back, so we’re ready to get serious about spring gardening! Master Gardener Gretchen Anderson is here to tell us what to plant now and what to wait on. Plus, we get the dirt on the “Shafer Butte rule”. Have more questions or tips about gardening in Boise? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise gardening inspo? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where we have a roundup of favorite local places to get your...

Mar 27, 202320 min

Boise Mayor’s Race Heats Up, and Meridian Shows Up for Libraries

The race for the next Boise mayor is officially on, the Meridian Library District gets a major boost from the public, and the legislative session is inching closer to an end. It’s been a busy week in local politics, so Lead Producer Frankie Barnhill’s getting up to speed with George Prentice from Boise State Public Radio. Plus, George makes us jealous talking about the upcoming Sun Valley Film Festival, while Frankie shares her must-see acts for this weekend’s Treefort Music Fest. Want some more...

Mar 24, 202328 min

What’s Up With Idaho’s UFO Sightings?

They say that the truth is out there. Could it be in Idaho? If it is, Jim Millard could be among the first to know. He’s in charge of the Idaho chapter of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), which investigates unidentified flying objects. Jim tells Host Emma Arnold why we regularly top the list of states with the most reported sightings — some of which MUFON can’t explain. Seen something unknown in the sky you want Jim and his colleagues to check out? Try and take note of your exact location and the...

Mar 23, 202318 min

Why This Superfan Made Treefort Her Wedding Venue

Treefort Music Fest starts today in downtown, and organizers are expecting a record number of attendees over the five-day event. This year there’s more going on than ever, including…a wedding?! Lead Producer Frankie Barnhill’s talking with Treefort superfan Jenny Hefner about why she and her fiancé are inviting festival-goers to celebrate their love this Saturday. Plus, she shares insider tips on how to do the weekend right. Check out Clark & Jenny’s Wedding at El Korah Shrine Saturday at 2:...

Mar 22, 202319 min

What Search Warrants Could Mean for Kohberger Case

It’s been a few months since Bryan Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania for the alleged murder of four University of Idaho students. What do we know about the case against the former Washington State University student, and what’s still a mystery? KTVB’s Alexandra Duggan is here to give us the latest on this story, including details on the planned demolition of the house where the tragedy occurred. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet t...

Mar 21, 202318 min

Your Boise Nightlife Guide

Just in time for spring break, we’re talking Boise nightlife! The scene has changed a lot in recent years, and Host Emma Arnold is trying to keep up. Luckily, our new friend Mateo from 103.5 KISS FM knows the hottest spots to hit. Whether you’re looking for a rowdy night out, a killer dance floor, or a chill evening — he’ll help you enjoy the best night out in Boise. What are your go-to spots for a night out? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485 Want some more Boise event ...

Mar 20, 202321 min

Amtrak Love, Boise Mayor Cries ‘Portland,’ and Free Press Intimidation

Attacks on a local reporter, Ada County says “nope” to homelessness relief funds, a bill that could cause problems for Boise cyclists surfaces, and ya’ll really want a train to SLC! Those are just a few of the topics on this week’s news chatter episode, featuring City Cast Boise Host Emma Arnold, contributor Heath Druzin, and Lead Producer Frankie Barnhill. Have a thought to share on this week’s news? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise news? Head ov...

Mar 17, 202330 min

Everything You Were Too Afraid To Ask About Boise

What’s Boise’s reputation to outsiders? What stereotypes are totally bogus, and which are actually true? We’re finding out with City Cast CEO and non-Boisean David Plotz. Back in December, David asked City Cast Boise Host Emma Arnold and Lead Producer Frankie Barnhill a bunch of questions about perceptions on the City of Trees. From militia membership to blue turf gatekeeping, there’s lots of myths to bust — or confirm. What have you always wanted to know about Boise, but never knew who to ask? ...

Mar 16, 202319 min

Will the Legislative Session Ever End?

This legislative session has been a lot, but at least it’s just about done. Or is it? Boise State Public Radio’s James Dawson is here to check in with us about when we can expect lawmakers to head home, what’s holding things up, and which proposals, if any, Gov. Brad Little might veto. And with the forecast bringing some sunny days later this week, you might be itching to hit the trails. Here’s another Boise Pro Tip: Before you head to the foothills, check out the Ridge to Rivers website and Fac...

Mar 15, 202318 min

Where To Party On St. Patrick’s Day

Looking for the best corned beef and cabbage this St. Patrick’s Day? Minerva Jayne is here with her picks for the best Irish fare in town. She shares her choice for the most authentic Guinness pour in Boise, and makes a really good case for a family-run Meridian pub. Because this week, everyone in the Treasure Valley is at least a little Irish. For more ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, check out our Hey Boise newsletter for updated events listings. Can’t get enough of us?! We get it. Follow ...

Mar 14, 202321 min

Boise’s Best Urban Legends

Creepy clowns, Chinese tunnels, and the Boise curse. Citizen historian Graham McBride is here to walk us through our city’s best urban legends and myths. How did cockroaches invade Borah High School, and what’s in the basement of Boise High? What’s up with the spell jars out at Fort Boise Cemetery, and was there really a murder at the Linden Murder House? And are the Bogus Basin trolls real? Have a Boise urban legend we missed? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want so...

Mar 13, 202324 min

Oscar Picks, Does Boise Need More Cops, and We Hate Daylight Saving

We’re talking about the stories that stuck with us this week. From Boise’s embattled police department wanting to grow, to why the city kicked out a mobile billboard promoting abortion pill access, to whether Idaho should ditch daylight saving time — there’s lots to cover. Plus: we get George Prentice’s Oscar picks ahead of the Sunday award show. Have a strong opinion about the time change? What are your thoughts on the Boise Police Department’s request for more officers? Let us know by sending ...

Mar 10, 202323 min

Does Salt Lake Want A Train To Boise?

Boise is stoked about the potential of Amtrak’s Pioneer Route coming back. The old train ran until 1997 from Salt Lake to Boise, and on to Portland and Seattle. With Boise’s Mayor McLean and city government flirting with Salt Lake partners to bring the train back — and federal Amtrak funding up for grabs — could passenger trains chug out of the Boise Depot once again? Emma and Frankie are talking to pal Ali Vallarta, host of the City Cast Salt Lake podcast to find out if the feeling is mutual. W...

Mar 09, 202323 min

Why The Meridian Library District Is Fighting For Its Life

The Meridian Library has been under fire from Christian Nationalists for months, and it’s about to get even uglier. Director Nick Grove is with us to talk about the upcoming public hearing to dissolve the Meridian Library District, and he explains that if it passes, it would mean scrapping everything at all four locations: computers, books, even the shelves. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Intereste...

Mar 08, 202320 min

A Hater’s Guide to Boise

We’re the first to say how much we love Boise, but it’s not perfect. So today, Host Emma Arnold’s favorite haters Julia Green and Frankie Barnhill are here to break down the best spots in Boise to take someone for a bad time. Where would you take your nemesis in Boise or the Treasure Valley? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise intel? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Can’t get enoug...

Mar 07, 202317 min

Why Landlords Support Limiting Rental Fees

If you’re a renter in Idaho, you’re less protected from fees than if you leased a storage unit. In some cases, people have to pay $500 dollars for being one day late on rent. State Sen. Ali Rabe wants to change that. She’s here to tell us why her bill that would limit how much a landlord can charge in fees has both bipartisan support, and the green light from landlords. What do you think about rental fees in Idaho? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise...

Mar 06, 202315 min

Fringe Politics, Restricted Driver’s Licenses, and March Is In Like a Lion

We made it to another Friday, Boise! Scott McIntosh with the Idaho Statesman is chatting with host Emma Arnold and lead producer Frankie Barnhill about the stories behind the headlines. They’re talking Scott’s recent piece on fringe politics, pro-militia proposals, the latest on a restricted driver’s license bill, and a potential drag and burlesque ban. Plus, apparently there are some pretty mixed feelings about March weather in Boise? And here’s your Boise Pro Tip for the day: it turns out putt...

Mar 03, 202320 min

Meet 2023’s National Miss Voice for Autism

It’s our first time having royalty on the show! Caldwell teen Kylie Welch was recently crowned the 2023 National Miss Voice for Autism. She and her mom Debbie are with us today to talk rodeos, representing the autistic community, and how she plans to spread awareness and acceptance during her reign. You can help Kylie travel the country promoting her story here. Want some more Treasure Valley stories? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday m...

Mar 02, 202315 min

Insider’s Guide to Boise Recycling

Recycling in Boise can be confusing, but we’ve got your back! From “wishcycling,” to what to do with those crinkly plastic water bottles and pizza boxes, we’re setting the record straight. We’re sorting through what can and can’t get tossed in the big blue bin, and asking the question — how full is our landfill? We recommend keeping these printables from the City of Boise handy. Still have more questions about reducing, reusing and recycling in the City of Trees? Let us know by sending us a voic...

Mar 01, 202319 min

‘Dante’s Peak’ Is Terrible (but We Kinda Love It)

James Bond, acid lakes, scalded skinnydippers, and coffee coffee coffee. Filmed right here in Wallace Idaho, “Dante’s Peak” is an eruption of disaster movie cliches and over-the-top local extras. So why do Emma and Frankie still kind of love it? What movie with an Idaho connection should we rewatch together next? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. And each day this week, we’ll share a Boise Pro Tip on recycling. Wonder what to do with all those glass bottles and jars pi...

Feb 28, 202325 min

Has Boise’s Music Scene Changed Forever?

Boise’s music scene has long been our city’s pride and joy but it hasn’t been an easy few years. Andrew Martin of Up is the Down is The and the Boise Phil is with Emma to talk about the health of the Boise music scene and why these days, some of Boise’s biggest bands are choosing to book smaller gigs. Want to check out Andrew’s music live? He and his band are playing Treefort Music Fest in March. And we’re sharing a bunch of info for how to recycle in Boise this week. Our first Boise Pro Tip on ...

Feb 27, 202314 min
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