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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

12 Things You Didn’t Know Your Library Card Could Do

From legal advice to helping start your garden, Boise’s public libraries are so much more than a place to borrow books. Library Branch Manager Huda Shaltry is here to help you unlock the full power of your library card, plus she tells host Emma Arnold why the Boise Comic Arts Festival coming up this weekend is a can’t miss. Want some more Boise intel? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Looking to advertise on City Cast Boise? Ch...

Sep 28, 202319 min

Celebrate Fall at These Nearby Farms

Grab your favorite local PSL: We’re driving to the farm for the third and final installment of our fall getaway series. From Boise newsletter writer Marissa Lovell is here with Emma to share her insider tips to the best pumpkin patches, corn mazes and apple picking. Plus, why being “basic” this fall is a compliment. Check out this chart for what’s in season in Idaho. Have a favorite farm for fall vibes we missed? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise a...

Sep 27, 202315 min

Idaho's Best Haunted Roadtrip

For the second installment of our 3-part fall getaway series, Graham McBribe joins host Emma Arnold for a haunted Idaho roadtrip to Silver City. They share history highlights, creepy hotel stories and why PBS once called this old ghost town the sixth most haunted site in America. Would you spend the night in Silver City? 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 every wee...

Sep 26, 202320 min

Where To Check Out Idaho’s Fall Colors

The scent of fall is in the air, and that makes us crave anything pumpkin-themed. It also makes us want to get away for a few days, to take it all in. Today’s the first in a 3-part series on fall getaways and lead producer Frankie Barnhill’s here to share our guide to the best leaf-peeping day trips from Boise. Plus, Emma asks for predictions of when the leaves will be at their peak showoff stage. For more info on a weekend getaway to Sun Valley for leaf peeping, check out this blog post. And he...

Sep 25, 202316 min

$5 Huskies, Quagga Mussels, and Portland Loo Pushback

Host Emma Arnold’s got Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter with her to dig into the week’s news. They’re talking $5 huskies, invasive mussels, and how neighbor pushback against ”Portland loos” feels awfully similar to a mayoral candidate’s campaign strategy so far. 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. Looking to advertise on City Cast Boise? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ...

Sep 22, 202326 min

The Best Mexican Bakeries in the 2C

Finding real Mexican sweet bread in Boise can be a challenge, so Evelyn Avitia and Mia Maldonado are here to tell us why the drive to the 2C is worth it. They break down everything you need to know about this sweet treat and why it tastes way better in the fall. Plus, Mia clues us in to her favorite Mexican bakery in Nampa. What’s your favorite spot for sampling pan dulce? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Treasure Valley food recommendations? Head over ...

Sep 21, 202317 min

Why We (Mostly) Love BOI Airport

Our airport used to be pretty sleepy, but like most of town, things are changing. There’s a new parking garage, plus, a couple more nonstop flights kicking off this fall. So today, we’re re-sharing my conversation with Boise-based NPR reporter Kirk Siegler. We chat through our BOI rants and raves, and drop our destination wishlist. And according to Boise airport officials, Southwest Airline’s weekly nonstop service to Midway in Chicago has returned. Southwest is expected to add a direct flight t...

Sep 20, 202318 min

Why the Kuna Caves Are Worth a Visit

The City Cast Boise crew loves a little day trip adventure but we have to admit, the entrance to the Kuna caves had us more than a little worried. One 50-foot steel cage ladder and a quarter mile of dust later, host Emma Arnold and brave contributor Graham McBride are back to decide if the Kuna caves are a don’t miss. What’s your take on the Kuna caves? Have another day trip you think we should try out? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise guides? Hea...

Sep 19, 202321 min

Is Boise a Good City for Young People?

About a decade ago, Boise was the place for young people, especially artists. But rising housing costs and low wages have us wondering: Is that still true? Ryan Marsh from the Backyardists is here to help us dig into the challenges facing young people, and whether or not Boise can still call itself “cool.” Do you think Boise is a city for young people, or not? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise info? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter for guides ...

Sep 18, 202314 min

Candidates on Police Shootings, Bus Survey, and a Jail Expansion?

Host Emma Arnold’s chatting with Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter about the week’s news. They’re talking a possible expansion for the Ada County jail, Boise’s mayoral candidates weighing in on recent police shootings, and where to get the new COVID-19 booster. Plus, Valley Regional Transit wants your input! 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 advertising with City Cast Boise? Find ...

Sep 15, 202326 min

Where To Party In Boise

Whether it’s sipping on fancy cocktails, enjoying live music, or dancing til the wee hours, Boise’s nightlife offers plenty of options. So today, 103.5 Kiss FM’s Mateo joins host Emma Arnold to sort through the best spots and plan the perfect night out in Boise. Let us know where you like to enjoy a night out 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 every weekday morning. Interested...

Sep 14, 202319 min

Why Dating In Boise Is A Nightmare

Swiping through Boise’s dating apps can feel like a never-ending nightmare, so Natalie DeWitt joins host Emma Arnold to set the scene. Natalie explains the different personalities you’ll find, red flags to be aware of and tells us about a smelly date night that made her never want to touch a dating app ever again. Have a nightmare dating app story? We want to hear it! Send 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 ch...

Sep 13, 202315 min

Is Boise in the PNW, or the Mountain West?

Today we’re getting out the map to decide once and for all: are we in the Mountain West, the Pacific Northwest, or another region entirely? Listen to find out which region gets to claim us. What’s your take? Are we more PNW or Mountain West, or something else entirely? 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 every weekday morning. Interested in advertising with City Cas...

Sep 12, 202320 min

These Landlords Are Most Likely To Evict You

Rent is up, and so are evictions. So which landlords are most likely to try to kick out renters, and what happens after you get a notice tacked to your door? Rachel Spacek with the Idaho Statesman has the facts. Plus, why your tax bill could go up if eviction lawsuits increase. Are you a landlord who has used eviction mediation in Boise? Or, are you a renter who has gone through the eviction process and want to share your story? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want s...

Sep 11, 202320 min

Idaho’s Labor History, OB-GYN Exodus, and It’s Pride Weekend!

Host Emma Arnold’s rounding up the news of the week with lead producer Frankie Barnhill. They’re talking Idaho’s surprising history in the labor movement, a recent New York Times article about our OB-GYN exodus, where Idahoans are getting abortions now, and why we were just rated one of the worst states for workers. Plus, it’s Pride weekend! 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?! W...

Sep 08, 202324 min

Is It Safe To Be Queer in Boise?

Since the first Pride in the Treasure Valley, there’s always been the same thread of hope: That life was steadily improving for LGBTQ people in Boise. But the last few years have been especially difficult for our queer community, and many people are questioning that hope now. Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter and comedian Sophie Hughes join host Emma Arnold today to answer a question that’s been circulating: Is Boise actually safe for queer people? What’s your perspective on whether Boise...

Sep 07, 202331 min

Boise Burgers To Eat Instead of In-N-Out

In-N-Out is finally coming to the Treasure Valley. But can the California chain compete with Boise’s beloved local drive-thrus? Burger fan Jimmy Dawson joins host Emma Arnold to talk about their most — and least — favorite spots in town to grab a patty. Plus, Emma shares why she’s nostalgic for the burgers of her youth. What’s your pick for the best local burger? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise food news? Head over to our daily Hey Boise newslett...

Sep 06, 202321 min

Is Boise the Most Dog-Friendly City?

We’ve covered some big hairy topics about our four-legged friends recently. In the final episode of our Dog Days of Boise series, we’re barking about the biggest question of all: Is Boise the best city in America to be a dog? Host Emma Arnold and lead producer Frankie Barnhill are digging through the doggy data to get an answer. For more on Boise’s animal code, click here. Want some more Boise intel? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday mo...

Sep 05, 202321 min

Wetlands Lose Protection, Dogs Setting Fires, and That Moon!

Host Emma Arnold’s got Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter with her to help wade through the week’s news. They’re talking about a recent rollback of EPA wetland protections, why Attorney General Raúl Labrador was just dismissed from a lawsuit, and Labor Day plans for cooler weather. Plus, dogs setting fires! 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 Instag...

Sep 01, 202328 min

Your Dog-Approved Guide to Boise

As part of our Dog Days of Boise series, we’re rounding up some of the best dog-friendly restaurants, coffee shops, and patios to hang out with your pup. Plus, our favorite trails and dog park recommendations! What’s your dog’s favorite places to hang out? Have a walk or hike we missed? 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 enough of ...

Aug 31, 202323 min

Why Does Boise Thrifting Suck Now?

Being blessed by the thrift gods is starting to feel rare, which leads us to wonder: Has the Treasure Valley’s secondhand fashion scene gotten worse in the last couple years? Evelyn Avitia and Rachel Spacek join host Emma Arnold to share their thrifting hot takes and why their love for the popular hobby might be fading. Have you made a surprising thrift haul lately? Let us know your thrifting tips by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Bo...

Aug 30, 202321 min

Lost Stuff in the River? This Guy Probably Has It

The official end of floating season on the Boise River is next Monday. So to mark the close of summer, we’re re-sharing a chat lead producer Frankie Barnhill had with a man whose hobby — and side hustle — is diving for lost phones, car keys, and wallets in the Boise River. Rocky Detwiler, aka the River Robin Hood, has quite the story behind his nickname. 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 eno...

Aug 29, 202321 min

Does Boise Care About Cars More Than Pedestrians?

This has been one of the deadliest years on roads in Ada County for cyclists and pedestrians. So, are Boise’s streets designed only for drivers, at the expense of everyone else? Road safety advocate Don Kostelec is here to help us understand why these tragic accidents are happening, and what steps officials could take to make our roads safer for everyone. How do you want to see Boise’s streets change to be safer? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise i...

Aug 28, 202319 min

Water Recycling, BIPOC Playwrights Fest, and Summer Bucketlists

It’s Friday! And our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter is with host Emma Arnold to float through the week’s news. We’re talking end of summer bucketlists, the city’s water recycling pilot, and the don’t miss BIPOC Playwrights Festival. Plus, turns out Harry Styles is not a Jonas Bro. 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 Instagram. Interested in adve...

Aug 25, 202322 min

The Most Surprisingly Fun Things To Do at the Fair

The iconic Western Idaho Fair runs through Aug. 27. But we wanted to know, is it actually a good time? After a rowdy night of side-eyeing hobbycrafts and petting pigs, Blake Hunter and Jodi Eichelberger are with host Emma Arnold to talk exhibitors, attractions — and of course — the food. What would you give a blue ribbon to at the fair? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more things to do in Boise? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get an even...

Aug 24, 202324 min

Genius Tips for Late Summer Gardening

It’s that time of year when home gardeners have so much squash, they’re sneaking zucchini into cakes, breads, and their neighbor’s kitchen. Luckily, master gardener Gretchen Anderson is here with some amazing and easy late season harvest tips. Plus, she rates host Emma Arnold’s “chaos” garden. Gretchen’s class on preserving tomatoes is Thursday, Sept. 14 at Hillside Junior High. Have a go-to recipe for zucchini or a tried and true method for using tomatoes? Share your harvesting hacks over voice...

Aug 23, 202321 min

What You Need To Know About Our Vet Shortage

Continuing in our Dog Days of Boise series, you may have heard there’s a national vet shortage. But how’s it hitting the Treasure Valley? Our lead producer Frankie Barnhill is here to tell us why finding a vet in town is becoming more difficult, and give us tips for finding a doc you love. Plus, is pet insurance a scam? For more on this topic, check out this article from the Idaho Capital Sun. Do you have pet insurance? Is it worth it, in your opinion? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or te...

Aug 22, 202318 min

Boise Republicans Could Be Screwed In 2024

The Idaho Legislature accidentally eliminated the state’s presidential primary election, so what happens now? Clark Corbin from the Idaho Capital Sun is here to give us a break down on how a proposed caucus could disenfranchise Boise voters and how the so-called “big tent” days of the Idaho Republican party could be a thing of the past. To read Clark’s reporting on this story, check out this first and second article. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll g...

Aug 21, 202322 min

Back To School, Climate Change Rage, and Hurricane Forecast?

It’s finally Friday! Emma’s got our Hey Boise newsletter editor, Blake Hunter, with her today to talk back to school bumps and blues, the Snake River dams, and Boise youths' climate change leadership. Plus, why a hurricane could affect Boise this weekend. Click here to learn more about the status of SB 1100 in the courts and what it means for trans students in Idaho. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. ...

Aug 18, 202322 min

Is This Rodeo Worth the Hype?

Often voted as one of the top five outdoor rodeos in the nation, the Caldwell Night Rodeo is a big deal! So host Emma Arnold, Evelyn Avitia, and Mia Maldonado grabbed their boots to find out what makes this rodeo so entertaining. And after a couple of buckets of beer on the rowdy side, they share their thoughts on the rodeo’s events, fashion, and food. Have a rodeo story to share? Let us know by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise n...

Aug 17, 202321 min
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