Do you know what happened to the first person to discover gold in the Boise Basin? Or what structures were knocked down to make room for the Idaho State Capitol building? IdaHistory founder Mark Iverson puts host Lindsay Van Allen to the test. They dive into the wacky and uncanny stories that led to the Boise we know and love today. 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...
Aug 28, 2024•25 min
For years, people have said to keep an eye on the Boise Bench, because it’ll be the next big thing. Idaho Statesman reporter Nick Rosenberger is talking with our host, Lindsay Van Allen, about a newly proposed development on Latah Street, what changes it could bring to the area, and whether or not it would mean having to trade convenient parking for housing. Plus, we discuss other challenges that have made it tricky to revitalize the Bench. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise n...
Aug 27, 2024•17 min
After a failed school levy in the spring, the Caldwell School District implemented a pay-to-play system for student sports and activities. Cross country coach Alexis Martinez is talking with our host Lindsay Van Allen about how this new system is affecting students, and why he thinks the district fell short on getting the levy passed. Plus we find out how he’s using the nearly $10,000 he raised for student athletes there. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you...
Aug 26, 2024•16 min
Host Lindsay Van Allen and our executive producer Frankie Barnhill are rounding up the news you need to know this week. Parents in the Boise School District now have to give written consent for teachers to administer basic first aid, after a new parental consent law went into effect. A shocking report about inconsistencies among Idaho coroners has us raising our eyebrows about a high-profile murder case. Plus, a local banned book club celebrates two years of subversive reading — and the City of ...
Aug 23, 2024•29 min
Boise has so many fabulous parks, sometimes we take them for granted. So today, we’re resharing our ultimate ranking of locals parks to help you make the most of the last weeks of summer. Have a Labor Day BBQ in mind but not sure where to go? Or maybe you’re looking for screen-free play that will keep your kids entertained. We have just the park for you! Host Lindsay Van Allen is talking with Becca Bailey from Boise With Kids and Marissa Lovell with From Boise — two locals who take “park time” s...
Aug 22, 2024•28 min
The Boise School District recently announced the upcoming closure of a Bench elementary school, which has led to backlash from parents. Idaho Ed News reporter Ryan Suppe is talking with host Lindsay Van Allen about the decision to close Owyhee Elementary and convert it to a preschool next year. What is the school board’s reasoning, and how does it fit into the context of other school closures in the Treasure Valley? We’re finding out. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newslet...
Aug 21, 2024•19 min
The Treasure Valley hasn’t been a place that comes to mind when people picture sophisticated gallery shows, despite having a thriving art scene. Boise painter Elijah McNeely wants to change that. As a former real estate agent, he’s sharing his vision for building accessible — but elevated — gallery spaces. Plus, he explain why he thinks that exposure to abstract art could change Boise for the better. Want some more Boise stories? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatshee...
Aug 20, 2024•20 min
A movement to restore abortion access in Idaho has achieved a major milestone. Idahoans United for Women and Families recently filed four voter initiative proposals with the state, aiming to let voter’s have a say about reproductive rights in 2026. So we’re re-sharing our April conversation with organizer Melanie Folwell to break down what it’s going to take to get this issue on the ballot — and what’s at stake. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a ...
Aug 19, 2024•20 min
We’re rounding up the news you need to know this week, featuring our host Lindsay Van Allen and Boise State Public Radio’s George Prentice. They’re chatting about a brand new strategic reproductive rights proposal that could change Idaho law and guarantee access to birth control, in-vitro fertilization, and abortion. They also dive into a recent legal victory for a local pro-Palestinian demonstration that has been protesting for over 100 days. Plus, Lindsay shares the foods you need to eat at th...
Aug 16, 2024•27 min
The Caldwell City Council and Mayor recently rocked the community when they installed parking meters in the small downtown. Our producer Evelyn Avitia is here to explain the impact the meters are having on businesses and the community, and why so many people are unhappy with the city’s decision. Could Caldwell reverse course on this parking policy? Want some more Boise area news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more abo...
Aug 15, 2024•16 min
Eating out is so expensive in Boise these days. But, we’ve cracked the code! Our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter has compiled an epic list of $10 meals that support local restaurants and keep you within your budget. From breakfast sandos, to lunch specials and downtown dinners — these tips are worth every penny. Want some more Boise food intel? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this Augu...
Aug 14, 2024•22 min
Tater tots are a mainstay on every local drive-thru and bar menu. And while Napoleon Dynamite forever linked Idaho with the fried snack, turns out they were actually invented in (gasp!) Oregon. So today, we’re re-sharing our conversation with food writer Heather Arndt Anderson about the surprising history of the mighty tot. Want some more Boise history? Subscribe to our free Hey Boise newsletter where we share stories sure to impress guests at your next locals-only dinner party. Learn more about...
Aug 13, 2024•19 min
Classrooms are unlocking Wednesday for students around the valley, with summer break in the rearview for the Boise and West Ada School Districts. But at Eagle High, allegations of racism and inaction hang over the administration there. Idaho Statesman reporter Sarah Cutler recently exposed accusations of harassment that were allegedly ignored by school officials. She spoke with our host Lindsay Van Allen about the claims, and why one family is considering legal action. Want some more Boise news?...
Aug 12, 2024•17 min
We’re rounding up the news of the week, starting with a new parental medical consent law that just went into effect. Host Lindsay Van Allen and our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter are discussing how this policy could be dangerous for sexual assault survivors in Idaho. We also chat about the Roman Catholic Diocese going toe-to-toe with the Boise City Council on a controversial North End development project. Plus, how to best view this weekend’s meteor shower. Want to submit your writing ...
Aug 09, 2024•31 min
School starts next week in the Boise and West Ada School Districts, and this year parents are spending an average of $700 per child to get them ready for school! Nearly half of these families are sacrificing necessities to try and afford to get their kids back to the classroom. So, host Lindsay Van Allen is getting advice from local couponing legend Heather Wheeler, co-founder of Krazy Coupon Lady. She shares back-to-school tips and tricks to save your budget. Plus, we find out exactly where Hea...
Aug 08, 2024•18 min
There are so many local businesses and insider spots in Boise to celebrate. But despite their popularity, it seems like no one is immune to the rantings found in a 1-start online review. So host Lindsay Van Allen is poking fun at some of the funniest things reviewers have written about Boise institutions with contributor Minerva Jayne and executive producer Frankie Barnhill. Buckle up, it’s going to be a wild ride of rants and haters! Want some more local Boise info? Head over to our Hey Boise n...
Aug 07, 2024•24 min
Boise Mayor Lauren McLean is on the podcast explaining why she chose Chris Dennison of the Tucson Police Department to be Boise’s next police chief. The city’s two highest profile offices — mayor and police chief — caused each other grief during McLean’s first term. So how did she make her decision, and will Dennison be able to repair rifts between the department, the city and the community? Host Lindsay Van Allen is asking Mayor McLean all about this in an exclusive interview. Want some more Bo...
Aug 06, 2024•33 min
Homelessness is a persistent and growing struggle for Boise. Between a new deadline to wind down funding for temporary housing, and a U.S. Supreme Court decision that allows criminalization of outdoor camping — there are a lot of challenges we need to overcome. Plus, will a new, larger shelter be built in time to keep our most vulnerable residents off the street? Interfaith Sanctuary’s Executive Director Jodi Peterson-Stigers is here to share what keeps her up at night, and what gives her hope. ...
Aug 05, 2024•26 min
We’re rounding up the news of the week with Boise State Public Radio’s George Prentice. We’re digging in to a federal report on the deadly airport hangar collapse earlier this year, and asking whether a meat-free world could mean less wildfire smoke in the Treasure Valley. Plus, host Lindsay Van Allen gets a must-see movie suggestion from George. 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 ...
Aug 02, 2024•27 min
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 Boise community. August is here, and we have your ultimate guide to maximize the last weeks of summer. From a new festival in Meridian, to an iconic small town rodeo, to an indoor dance party celebrating Brat girl summer, and the Western Idaho Fair — our team has your calendar planned out. Plus: listen for our secret river spots, the best place to see the stars, and ...
Aug 01, 2024•35 min
Buying a starter home in Boise continues to be tough for so many people, even years after our real estate market exploded. But there’s another side to this red hot housing market: the luxury homes going for millions of dollars. So what exactly does seven figures buy you in the Treasure Valley? We’re re-visiting our conversation with Idaho Statesman reporter Nick Rosenberger, who gives us a peak inside the most extravagant homes in our area. Want some more Boise housing news? Head over to our Hey...
Jul 31, 2024•15 min
Boise’s lucky: Not every city can boast about hiking trails just a few minutes from downtown. But for beginners, getting into hiking can be intimidating! Colton Gerhart is with the Boise Trails Challenge, and he’s joining us to share his recommendations. Colton has a trail in mind for every level and every season — plus, he shares his insider tips on getting those killer views. Want some more Boise recreation intel? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city ...
Jul 30, 2024•17 min
Human trafficking has become a hot button issue throughout the country. But a bombshell investigation revealed that a local safe house was allegedly committing Medicaid fraud. And, survivors say they were not provided services they needed. Investigate West reporter Wilson Criscione spoke with our host, Lindsay Van Allen about who was benefitting financially and why survivors said that being at the safe house felt like being trafficked all over again. And a quick warning: this episode discusses t...
Jul 29, 2024•17 min
We’re rounding out the week with news that has a lot of the Treasure Valley fired up. Host Lindsay Van Allen and executive producer Frankie Barnhill discuss the new City of Boise budget and what it means for your property taxes, and reactions to our first-ever forced power outage. Plus, we’ve got a cost effective way to build your own air purifier to help combat our terrible air quality. Want to stay up on wildfire news in the region? Frankie recommends this app. And Lindsay recommends checking ...
Jul 26, 2024•35 min
The San Inazio festival kicks off tomorrow on the Basque Block. So, we’re getting insider tips from festival chairman Joseba Criswell at the Basque Center. He shares the forgotten history of this Basque celebration with host Lindsay Van Allen, which started at a park in the 1930s. He also discloses the location of a secret, underground handball court. And, he teaches us some helpful phrases to help you order your first kalimotxo. Want some more Boise festival info? Head over to our Hey Boise new...
Jul 25, 2024•18 min
Our city is home to some pretty incredible athletes, some of whom will soon be able to add “Olympian” to their resume. With the Paris Olympics officially kicking off this Friday, who are these hometown competitors? Our executive producer Frankie Barnhill has the lowdown on four local athletes you‘re going to want to cheer for. Plus, a local celebration at JUMP to mark the opening ceremonies. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the cit...
Jul 24, 2024•26 min
This unending heat wave has us sweltering, so our City Cast Boise team is digging in to our favorite cold and icy treats from around the Treasure Valley. From where to get the best frozen mangonadas, the fluffiest shaved ice, and the most delicious ice cream in the area — we have your sweet tooth covered. Plus, we’re sharing our insider secret treats that we’ve been gatekeeping. Spots mentioned: Thirsty Shack Jack’s Drive In 2C Wine Down Nekter Juice Bar Slay the Snow Truffles, Etc. The STIL Fra...
Jul 23, 2024•24 min
It’s notoriously difficult to get successful traction on voter initiatives. So, we’re talking with Luke Mayville, co-founder of Reclaim Idaho. His group just managed to get the Open Primaries Initiative on the November ballot. Luke explains to host Lindsay Van Allen why over 97,000 Idahoans signed on, and why he thinks people want more of a say in our local elections. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning....
Jul 22, 2024•18 min
The heat‘s not the only thing rising in the Treasure Valley: eviction filings jumped significantly, according to a new report. Our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter joins host Lindsay Van Allen to discuss what this means after the city council announced plans to spend $436,000 more on temporary hotel housing for families — but with a one-year time limit. Plus, a local company is booming after reports of toxic chemicals found in tampons — and Latah Street is getting a carless makeover (for...
Jul 19, 2024•25 min
Boise is not getting away from the heat anytime soon, but if you’re looking to cool down host Lindsay Van Allen has a decade’s worth of tricks to take on a day at Roaring Springs Water Park. From when the lines are shortest, to the lowdown on their new cocktail menu, she’s sharing her essential tips. Want some more local tips on how to embrace the heat? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday morning. Learn more about the sponsor of this July...
Jul 18, 2024•21 min
