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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

Eerie Tales of Boise’s Cemeteries

Boise’s cemeteries might seem quiet and peaceful during the day. But they hold some creepy, sinister stories from our city’s past. IdaHistory's Mark Iverson joins host Lindsay Van Allen to share where you can find the gravestones of the Treasure Valley’s most notorious criminals, and which is the most haunted. Plus, Mark’s sharing the wild story behind Boise’s infamous mummy. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city every weekday ...

Oct 10, 202420 min

Short-Term Rentals Get a Bad Rap. Should They?

Everyone’s looking for answers about why our housing is so expensive. So we’re exploring whether short-term rentals could be the culprit with KTVB’s Justin Corr. Are out-of-state investors and their Airbnbs the reason rent is so high? Our host Lindsay Van Allen is diving into this question, and Justin explains why Boise’s housing shortage problem is so complex. 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 ...

Oct 09, 202420 min

Eat These Dumplings Now, Boise!

We love talking about local food on City Cast Boise, so thankfully our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter is back with another scrumptious food guide. This time, we’re talking dumplings. Blake expands host Lindsay Van Allen’s palate with the best places to find this Asian delight. From a new downtown spot that’s making our mouths water, to some classic Chinese joints that are great for sampling, you’ll be equipped the next time a dumplings crave hits you. Want some more Boise news? Head ov...

Oct 08, 202420 min

Your Guide to Buying Your First Home in Boise

Boise-area housing prices have been skyrocketing, leaving local residents unsure if homeownership is even a possibility for them. Today, HomeFound Group realtor Tom Wheeler joins host Lindsay Van Allen to discuss what the realities for prospective home buyers actually are. He offers his insider tips and tricks for first-time buyers, and explains how he’s helping local residents get into homes. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the c...

Oct 07, 202425 min

Red Light Cameras, Viral Police Arrest, and Sheep Hit the Trails

Prentice are rounding up the news of the week. They dive into a local controversy surrounding a former Meridian police officer whose viral arrest video and transfer to the Boise Police Department has been making headlines. Then, they weigh the pros and cons of red light cameras potentially being installed on Boise traffic lights. Plus, USA TODAY 10Best names the Trailing of the Sheep Festival as one of the best fall festivals in the U.S. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise news...

Oct 04, 202426 min

Sex, Alcohol, and Coffee: A Boise Ex-Mormon’s Journey

Mormon reality TV is really having a moment, but something that isn’t in the spotlight is what happens when people make the decision to leave the Latter-day Saints faith. Despite Idaho having the third-highest Latter-day Saints population in the country, Boise has a large and thriving ex-Mormon community. Today, host Lindsay Van Allen and comedian Brittany Hargis are diving into why our city is such a great place for people who have left the religion. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our ...

Oct 03, 202427 min

Is the Clash Between Big City and Boise State Over?

Big City Coffee’s $4 million victory over Boise State left the community with some unanswered questions. Today, host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by Idaho Ed News senior reporter Kevin Richert to break down what this legal win means for Boise State, what comes next, and how it could affect the university’s reputation. 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? Fin...

Oct 02, 202421 min

Your Guide to October 2024 in Boise

It’s October, and we’ve got your guide to make the most of spooky season in the Treasure Valley! Hey Boise’s newsletter editor Blake Hunter has the inside scoop on where to grab the best seasonal drinks, while From Boise’s Marissa Lovell gets us hyped for the can’t-miss food event of the month. Plus, host Lindsay Van Allen makes the case for why you should take a walk through a cemetery this month — and the best ones to visit. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for yo...

Oct 01, 202427 min

West Bench Needs Community. This Coffee Shop is Building It.

Laurie Pearman and Sarah Keck dreamed of a space where they could bring people together and encourage community vitality on the West Bench. Today, host Lindsay Van Allen is speaking with two friends who instantly connected when they both realized they had a common vision to open a coffee shop. We’ll learn what it took to get that dream off the ground and how the neighborhood has responded to Common Ground Coffee & Market. Click here to learn more about Common Ground’s grand opening on Octobe...

Sep 30, 202420 min

Idaho’s Voter Guide, Understanding BPD’s New Chief, and Fall Films

We’re rounding up the news of the week with Boise State Public Radio’s George Prentice. He gives us a sneak peak into his latest interview with Chris Dennison, Boise Police Department’s new chief. We’re also breaking down Idaho’s voter guide and why it’s a good start, but still needs some work. Plus, host Lindsay Van Allen gets must-see film suggestions 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. I...

Sep 27, 202427 min

Boise Sports Bars To Watch Your Favorite Teams

If you missed out on your Boise State versus Washington State tickets, or you want to replicate the feeling of a Vandals game, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered! Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by 103.5 KISS FM’s Mateo with your guide to the best local sports bars, from who has the best TV screens, to where you can go to score the best food and drinks. Spots mentioned: The National Parrilla Grill The Shed The Curb Bar and Grill Mulligans Cactus Bar The Silly Birch The Refuge Restaurant and Lou...

Sep 26, 202418 min

Boise Schools Fight Back Against Youth Suicide Spike

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and despite best efforts to curb the trend, Idaho’s youth are facing rising rates of suicide. As many as 29% of junior high students and 34% of high school students had had thoughts of suicide in the past six months, according to an Idaho Ed News report in 2023—which puts our state in the top 10 states for highest for teen suicidal ideation. Idaho also ranks 4th, nationally, for teen suicide rates. In this episode, host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by Andrea...

Sep 25, 202421 min

Is Boise vs. Spokane the Ultimate Sibling Rivalry?

Boise and Spokane have been described for decades as sister cities. They share riverside communities, a love for the outdoors and good food. But do people in Spokane actually think about Boise? In today’s episode, host Lindsay Van Allen, executive producer Frankie Barnhill and Spokesman-Review reporter Alexandra Duggan dive into that sibling relationship to find out if it’s a family rivalry, or a friendly competition. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll ...

Sep 24, 202424 min

Why Idaho Needs More Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners

Idaho State Police is working to train about 250 sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE) by the end of the year despite our state’s nursing shortages. Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by Idaho Reports’ Ruth Brown to break down what a SANE nurse is trained to do, and how they can potentially help the citizens of Idaho. Plus, Brown outlines some of the challenges victims of sexual assault currently face, including the unexpected issue minors have when trying to access sexual assault exams without pa...

Sep 23, 202418 min

Big City Verdict, the Best Pumpkin Spice, and Are Boiseans Rich Now?

Host Lindsay Van Allen and executive producer Frankie Barnhill are rounding up the biggest stories of the week. First off, they have lingering questions about the $4 million verdict in favor of Big City Coffee. What does this mean for Boise State University? And we’re feeling some economic whiplash after news that Boise-area family income now tops $100,000 — even while our housing is less affordable than California. Plus, Lindsay finds the best pumpkin spice coffee in the Treasure Valley and Fra...

Sep 20, 202424 min

Goathead Fest is Dead. Here’s What’s Replacing It

On Sunday from 12-5 p.m., no cars are allowed on a mile-long stretch of Latah. That’s because the Boise Bicycle Project is holding a new event called Open Streets Boise — replacing Goathead Fest that’s long been held downtown. But will this festival be as popular among cyclists? We’re chatting with BBP’s Nina Pienaar to learn more about the lofty transit goals behind this new version of the event. Want some more Boise news and events? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a chea...

Sep 19, 202419 min

How Real is ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’?

It seems like everyone’s buzzing about the “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” the hit reality show. But are these women really telling Mormon stories, or is it sensationalized drama? Host Lindsay Van Allen is an ex-Mormon and has a lot of thoughts about how the show portrays her former faith. She’s chatting with City Cast Salt Lake’s Ali Vallarta about whether the women are actually Mormon and if this show is actually a good thing for the LDS church. Want more stories about LDS culture and poli...

Sep 18, 202427 min

How to Romanticize Life in Boise

It’s easy to feel stuck in the monotony of everyday living, so local influencer Rosie Piper is joining host Lindsay Van Allen to help us find the simple joys our city has to offer. Rosie explains what it means to romanticize your life and how that practice has completely changed her perspective on the Treasure Valley. 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? Fi...

Sep 17, 202416 min

The Real Story Behind a Local Man’s Alleged Terror Plot

The arrest of a Boise man for allegedly inciting murder and terrorism sent shockwaves through the community. Idaho Statesman reporter Nicole Blanchard is sharing what we know so far with host Lindsay Van Allen. They dive into the details of his white supremacist beliefs, his supspected hit list of targets, how authorities say he “deified” terrorists, and how his propaganda may have led to international murders. Plus, we’re taking a look at what to expect as this case moves through the courts. Wa...

Sep 16, 202419 min

Boise Terrorist, Apartments in Airport Path, and Secrets of LDS Moms

We’re chatting about the news of the week with host Lindsay Van Allen and our executive producer Frankie Barnhill. They’re talking about the latest example of far-right extremism after a Boise man was arrested on suspicion of soliciting hate crimes and murder in an international terror ring. Meanwhile, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is preparing for a “United Against Hate” summit next week in Moscow. And housing’s scarce in Boise, but would you want to live near the airport? Plus, our take on the “S...

Sep 13, 202429 min

Treasure Valley Swingers Tell All

The old urban legend goes that Hidden Springs is a hotspot for swingers. But according to couple Candice Cook and Erik Zink with the Impulsive Duo, swinging has become more mainstream — even in Meridian. Host Lindsay Van Allen is finding out everything you’ve probably wondered about the non-monogamous lifestyle in the Treasure Valley. From how they handle jealousy to why swinging attracts all kinds of folks — Candice and Erik are open books about the lifestyle and their business. Plus, they tell...

Sep 12, 202424 min

These Ex-Mormon Moms Are Fighting Bigotry in Boise

When a group of Mormon women had their LGBTQ children come out to them, they realized that their culture and religion had not prepared them to be supportive. So they formed an organization to help educate and empower other Idaho parents, despite the state’s hostile politics. Jen Blair is part of the Mama Dragons group, and is joining host Lindsay Van Allen to share how they’re supporting families in the Treasure Valley. Mama Dragons will have a booth at Boise Pride this weekend. Click here for m...

Sep 11, 202420 min

Working From Home Getting Old? Try These Secret Boise Spots

Working from home can get monotonous, and late night homework at your kitchen table can be distracting. So, we’ve put together the best places in Boise for a productive change of scenery. From quiet focus corners to creative spots where you can plug in to a community of office nomads, host Lindsay Van Allen is sharing her top picks with contributor Nick Quah and our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter. Want some more insider tips from locals? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’...

Sep 10, 202425 min

Could Smaller Homes Be a Good Thing?

Homes in Boise aren’t just expensive — they’re getting smaller. Idaho Statesman reporter Nick Rosenberger is here to explain the trend of shrinking homes in the Treasure Valley and what it could mean for people looking to buy. Want some more Boise housing news? 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 September 9th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Interested in advertising...

Sep 09, 202419 min

Albertsons Trial Heats Up, Silent Soccer, and Is the Smoke Worse Than Ever?

It’s been a smoky week in the Treasure Valley, with wildfires — including one in Southeast Boise that threatened homes Thursday morning — choking the skies. Host Lindsay Van Allen is talking with Boise State Public Radio’s George Prentice about the ugly air quality news — and George gives us some cooler weather to hope for next week. And they’re digging into the latest on the proposed merger of Albertsons and Kroger, after a Boise executive testified in federal court on Wednesday. Plus, we have ...

Sep 06, 202428 min

How To Plan an Epic Fall Camping Trip

Labor Day usually signals the end of summer activities. But if you thought camping season was over, contributor Heath Druzin is joining host Lindsay Van Allen to share why the best Idaho camping may actually be in the fall. From more abundant wildlife, to gorgeous leaves, and cooler temperatures that are perfect for hot springs — he makes a pretty strong case. Plus, Lindsay might even get Heath to share the location of his favorite secret camp site. This episode was recorded before the Wapiti Fi...

Sep 05, 202424 min

Population Growth Means New Home, Same Mission for Faces of Hope

Faces of Hope is back in Boise and helping victims of abuse, stalking, domestic violence, and trafficking. Host Lindsay Van Allen caught up with the nonprofit’s executive director Paige Dinger to learn more about their new location and the variety of free resources they provide the community. They also discuss how the Treasure Valley’s population growth has led to significantly more demand for crisis resources. Plus, Paige shares some powerful stories about how Faces of Hope is saving lives. Wan...

Sep 04, 202424 min

Your Guide to September in Boise

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. It’s September and we’re eager to welcome the fall season as the leaves start to turn. This month the drinks are flowing with wine festivals, and Oktoberfests across the Treasure Valley. Host Lindsay Van Allen gives the lowdown on all the Pride events you need to know about (including how to drag brunch properly), while Katie Williams from the Travel...

Sep 03, 202430 min

Albertsons-Kroger in Court, Raging Wapiti Fire, and Idaho’s First Trans March

We’re digging into the big stories of the week, starting with the latest on a possible grocery store merger making national headlines. Host Lindsay Van Allen and our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter are chatting about the proposed Albertsons-Kroger acquisition, and what it could mean for your grocery budget. And ahead of the Labor Day weekend, how the Wapiti wildfire could affect your travel plans. Plus, balloons are in the air all weekend and Idaho’s first Trans March is coming up. Want...

Aug 30, 202425 min

This Secretive Idaho Religion Is Under FBI Investigation

The FBI is investigating a mysterious Christian sect with members in southern Idaho. KTVB’s Morgan Romero is joining us to break down what she learned while reporting on this church, including the alleged abuse members faced. She’s sharing why it’s so hard to find any information about the group, and how their secretive practices may have created the perfect environment for predators. Want some more Boise stories? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheatsheet to the city ev...

Aug 29, 202422 min
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