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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

Your Dog Training Questions, Answered

Training your dog doesn’t have to be a challenge. As part of our Dog Days of Boise series, we asked listeners to submit dog training questions and struggles. Allison Bittner from Clever Paws Dog Training is here with the answers! Plus, she tells us why trying to dominate your dog into doing what you want, means you’re barking up the wrong tree. We’re working on an episode about Boise veterinarians. Have you had trouble finding a vet for your dog? Or want to rave about a particular doctor who’s t...

Aug 16, 202322 min

Where To Find the Best Tacos

One of Nampa’s most beloved taco trucks is celebrating their new storefront location in Boise this week. But not everyone is happy with the move. We’re revisiting a chat host Emma Arnold had with taco-aficionados Evelyn Avitia and Rebecca De León, who argue Boise has a long way to go in the taco department. Plus, we learn about where to get the best authentic tacos in the Treasure Valley. Want to check out Birrieria Garnacha Que Apapacha’s soft opening at the Boise Spectrum Center? Tacos and oth...

Aug 15, 202320 min

Why Goatheads Are Really an Equity Issue

This time of year, it feels like goatheads are everywhere. In your bike tires, your shoes, even your pet’s paws! Murphy Woodhouse from the Mountain West News Bureau is here to tell us about new research that could help in the battle against this invasive plant. Plus, how to become a “weed warrior” in your own neighborhood. Want to check out Boise Goathead Fest this Saturday Aug. 19? Pre-register and learn more here. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll ge...

Aug 14, 202314 min

Vibe Check, Heat’s Returning, and Dog Adoption Joy

Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter is here to break down the stories of the week with lead producer Frankie Barnhill. They’re talking climate change in context, the newest lawsuit around Idaho abortion laws, and why waiting in line at the Boise Soul Food Festival is so worth it. Plus, an exciting dog adoption update! Let us know your Boise Soul Food tips 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 chea...

Aug 11, 202325 min

Essential Rules for WinCo Shopping

The potential merger of Albertsons and Kroger is still making headlines. But there’s another Boise-based grocery giant that has City Cast Boise lead producer Frankie Barnhill reaching for her debit card. We’re re-sharing her chat with WinCo fan and contributor Jimmy Dawson, who has tips on how to save money during your next grocery run. Plus, what not to miss in WinCo’s bulk section. What’s your go-to grocery store in Boise? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some ...

Aug 10, 202321 min

Why Young Boiseans Are Having Fur Babies

Younger generations in the Treasure Valley are putting off or choosing not to have kids, and let’s be honest: They have plenty of reasons to wait. In the latest edition of our Dog Days of Boise series, dog moms Frankie Barnhill and Rosie Piper are with host Emma Arnold. They chat about why millennials and Gen Z are perfectly happy raising fur babies instead of human ones. Plus, they share why being a DINKWAD is where it’s at. Are you waiting or choosing to not have human children, and instead ra...

Aug 09, 202326 min

How Skate Friendly Is Boise, Really?

Boise has a long history of churning out skateboarding stars, but are our show pony days behind us? Push and Pour’s Lucas Erlebach joins host Emma Arnold to talk about the opening of a new skatepark in west Boise. Plus, he let’s us in on why the Boise scene is special to skaters from around the world. Click here to access the GoFundMe link In Memory of Jadin “Bird” Zurawski. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday m...

Aug 08, 202316 min

Our Biggest Peeves About Boise Pet Parents

We’ve been glowing all month about Boise for being the best, most dog-friendly city, but what’s the downside? Boise State Public Radio contributor and dog dad Jimmy Dawson is with Emma today to talk biggest pet peeves, and they’re digging into off-leash dogs, party poopers, and a safety tip that could save you from a serious headache. Let us know what Boise dog owners do that makes you barky by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise ne...

Aug 07, 202320 min

Another City Council Appointment, Police Love Masterson, and Supermoons

It’s Friday! Host Emma Arnold’s debriefing on the news with Boise State Public Radio host George Prentice. We’re talking August supermoons, yet another city council seat appointment is coming, and why the police union is endorsing Mike Masterson for mayor. Plus, Emma shames George because he still hasn’t watched “Barbie.” 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 ...

Aug 04, 202326 min

Why Other States Send Their Dogs to Our Shelters

In today’s episode of our Dog Days of Boise series, Jennifer Adkins with the West Valley Humane Society is here to talk to us about the challenges of being a no-kill shelter. She shares why they’re running specials on dogs this summer, and how to know if you’re ready to become a pet parent. Plus, she tells host Emma Arnold about a couple of the extra special pups ready for their forever home! Have a pesky pet training question? Or want to know why your dog yawns, and what’s up with his digging o...

Aug 03, 202321 min

Are Boise Renters About To Get a Break?

Boise renters can’t seem to get a break, but change could be coming. The Idaho Statesman’s Ian Max Stevenson is here to tell us about proposals that could improve things for those of us who aren’t homeowners. But do the protections go far enough and how do landlords feel about it? Do you think these proposals could help renters in Boise? 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 t...

Aug 02, 202311 min

Your Boise Farmers Market Etiquette Guide

We love the vendors and volunteers at the Boise Farmers Market, but how’s the vibe? Contributor and ag-kid Jocelyn Robertson is here to tell us what not to miss at the market right now, plus she shares how NOT to act while you’re shopping. 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 advertising with City Cast Boise? Find more ...

Aug 01, 202322 min

Boise Loves Dogs, But...Do They Love Us Back?

Here in the Treasure Valley, we love our dogs, but do we love them a little too much? Today, we’re starting our new Dog Days of Boise series with some social science. Dog parent and host Emma Arnold is chatting with Shelly Volsche, a Boise State University anthropologist who specializes in pet-human relationships. Volsche tells us why babying your dog might not be a bad thing. Plus, she shares why a cave in France shows that our bond goes back thousands of years. What do you think: Is Boise the ...

Jul 31, 202324 min

Boise at the World Cup, Planned Parenthood Billboards, and How Heat Kills

Host Emma Arnold’s rounding out the news with lead producer Frankie Barnhill and Boise State Public Radio’s George Prentice. They’re talking Idaho women’s soccer being repped at the Women’s World Cup, how heat kills, and Planned Parenthood’s bold new billboard campaign. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter, where you’ll get a cheat sheet to the city every weekday morning. Can’t get enough of us?! We get it. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Interested in advertising...

Jul 28, 202329 min

What To Pack in Your Boise Go-Bag

Do you have a go-bag ready in case of emergency? With climate change and an ever-extending wildfire season, it’s best to plan for the worst — and remember your neighbors, too. Idaho has long been a place known for individualism and “preppers,” but where does community fit in this conversation? Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter is here with a helpful guide to disaster preparedness, and they tell host Emma Arnold that the most important item in your go-bag might be less tangible than you th...

Jul 27, 202322 min

Does Boise’s Basque Food Live Up to the Hype?

Boise’s Basque community is vibrant and thriving, but how’s the food? We sent City Cast Boise producer and self-professed “not very adventurous eater” Evelyn Avitia out to try some Basque Block favorites for the first time. She finds out why the Basque say “to know how to eat and to drink is to know enough.” Heading to the San Inazio festival this weekend? What are you excited about? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. The festivities kick off this Friday and wrap up Sun...

Jul 26, 202318 min

Why Does Boise Give Everything a Standing Ovation?

Summer is primetime for live performance in Boise, but are we a little too eager to show our love? We’re revisiting a chat we had with Story Story Night’s Jodi Eichelberger about how Boise gives everything — and we mean everything — a standing ovation, and how that impacts our arts communities. Have a concert or a play you can’t wait to clap for this summer? 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...

Jul 25, 202318 min

What To Do if You Meet a Rattlesnake

It’s rattlesnake season again and chances are, you’re going to come across one eventually around Boise. Luckily, snake wrangler and expert Kristina Parker is here to warm us up to this cold-blooded desert dweller. We’re talking snake urban legends, how to keep your pets safe. Plus, we learn what to do (and what not to do) if you get bitten by a rattlesnake. 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 ...

Jul 24, 202317 min

Triple Digit Heat, City Council Shakeup, and Retro KTVB Was a Vibe

Idaho’s unofficial #1 news dad Justin Corr from KTVB is here to sift through the week’s headlines with lead producer Frankie Barnhill. We’re talking shakeups at city council, some encouraging mental health data, and a record breaking start to both our heat, and our river floating season. Plus, big hair and a big anniversary. For more mental health resources, check out NAMI and be sure to share the 988 phone number. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get...

Jul 21, 202328 min

These Ice Cream Shops Will Keep You Chill, Boise

Summer heat is officially here. To add to your keep-cool toolkit, we’re ranking the best ice cream joints in Boise. From classic parlors to trendy twists on chilled desserts, contributor Jimmy Dawson and lead producer Frankie Barnhill we have you covered. Plus, we share our hot takes on some overrated cones. What Boise ice cream spot did we miss? Disagree with our hot/cold takes? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise guides? Head over to our Hey Boise ...

Jul 20, 202322 min

Beat the Heat in Boise’s Public Pools

Boise is feeling the summer heat as we hit triple-digit temperatures, so Graham McBribe joins host Emma Arnold to help us dive into Boise’s most refreshing public pools. They talk best places to cool off, where to take the kids and why Boise needs a bunch more pools. What’s your favorite place to cool off in the summer heat? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise summer vibes? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the ci...

Jul 19, 202319 min

Meet the Michelin Star Chef Reviving a Boise Gem

Chef Cal Elliott grew up here, but moved to New York City to learn how to cook. Thirty years and a Michelin Star later, he’s back in town with a big dream. Along with his wife Ashley, he’s restored the historic downtown building that most recently housed the Blues Bouquet, replacing it with a restaurant aimed at elevating Boise’s taste buds. The Avery restaurant and Tiner’s Bar is open, with the 39-room boutique hotel upstairs opening soon. Host Emma Arnold and Elliott talk “sexy bathrooms,” att...

Jul 18, 202320 min

A Stargazer’s Guide to Boise

If you missed the northern lights over Idaho last week, have no fear. Our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter is here to tell us about what’s coming up in the night sky and all the best places to stargaze in Boise. Plus, we find out, is Boise a good spot for stargazers? What’s your favorite spot to stargaze? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise insider info? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every wee...

Jul 17, 202313 min

Abortion Trafficking Lawsuit, New Dress Code, and Coyotes on the Bench

It’s Friday! Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter and lead producer Frankie Barnhill are digging into the week’s news with host Emma Arnold. We’re talking school dress codes in Boise and Canyon County, a new lawsuit against the abortion trafficking ban, and why watching people fall off paddleboards is the most relaxing Boise activity. Looking to help your neighbors most vulnerable to the heat that’s coming this week? Check out this group, along with this one, and also this one. Want some mor...

Jul 14, 202323 min

This 1987 Cold Case Killing Was Just Solved

Thirty six years after Joyce Casper was found murdered in Boise, her case has finally been solved. KTVB’s Alex Duggan is here to walk us through how detectives cracked the case using new DNA technology, and why one retired detective said the case impacted him like no other in his career. 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. Intereste...

Jul 13, 202315 min

Could This Housing Program Help First Time Homebuyers?

Housing keeps getting more expensive, and our once-more-affordable sister cities are now out of reach for many. But a new program in Caldwell could be a model for creating more affordable housing around the Treasure Valley. Mia Maldonado from the Idaho Capital Sun is here to tell us who qualifies for the program, and how it could help first time home buyers. Are you a first time home buyer trying to buy in the Boise metro? Let us know what the experience has been like by sending us a voicemail o...

Jul 12, 202314 min

Surprisingly Sweet Boise Date Nights

Whether you’re going on a first date or have been with your partner for years, planning the perfect date can be frustrating! That’s why host Emma Arnold is talking with local expert Rosie Piper. She shares her viral date night advice and helps us plan Boise dates that will save you a lot of stress. Plus, we find out, is Boise a good dating city? Have a special Boise date night? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise intel? Head over to our Hey Boise new...

Jul 11, 202315 min

What We Know About the Abrupt End to the BPD Probe

An investigation of systemic racism within the Boise Police Department was ended early by the city, leaving a lot of unanswered questions. Ian Max Stevenson from the Idaho Statesman is here to walk us through what evidence was left out, and why the the lead investigator delivered the partial findings [quote] “without a high level of confidence.” 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...

Jul 10, 202317 min

No More Emission Tests, Bundy’s Latest Standoff, and Twilight Criterium

Emission testing is dead, crazy landlord fees are no more, and Ammon Bundy’s “barbecue standoff” was a bust. Host Emma Arnold’s rounding up the week’s news with contributors Jimmy Dawson and Heath Druzin. Plus, Heath tries to convince Emma and Jimmy to attend Saturday’s Twilight Criterium in downtown Boise. 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 ...

Jul 07, 202326 min

What Not to Do in Boise This Summer

Boise is great, but we all have our gripes. As the temps in the city heat up, we’re revisiting a conversation about where we would take our enemies if we were their Boise guides. Think of this as your list of what not to do this summer, with host Emma Arnold and resident haters Julia Green and Frankie Barnhill. What where would you take your worst enemy in Boise? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll ...

Jul 06, 202316 min
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