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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

A Beginner’s Guide to Running in Boise

Whether you’re jogging on the Greenbelt or training in the Boise Foothills, local runners claim our town is the best running city. But Boise Run Club’s Chandler Underwood explains it’s not just about running — it’s about finding community, discovering hidden views, and falling in love with Boise in a whole new way. From beginner tips to expert runs, we’ve got your spring guide to running around the Treasure Valley. Let us know where you like to run by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485...

Apr 09, 202522 min

The Legislative Session Is Finally Over. What Happened?

The 2025 Idaho Legislative session finally ended, but the dust definitely hasn’t settled. From a sweeping ban on DEI requirements at public universities, to a law that cuts off public services for undocumented Idahoans — we’re unpacking the implications for our state. Plus, Boise State Public Radio’s James Dawson and our host Lindsay Van Allen settle their end-of-session bet, and daydream about how they’d rewrite the statehouse rules. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newslet...

Apr 08, 202533 min

Trump’s Funding Freeze Could Make the Treasure Valley Hotter

The Treasure Valley Canopy Network (TVCN) was ready to expand its tree planting efforts across the valley, until plans unraveled when the Trump administration froze funding. This left TVCN scrambling to pay past-due bills and even losing its spring planting window. Executive Director Lance Davisson explains to host Lindsay Van Allen why urban forestry matters, and how their local partners are working to keep the dream alive. For more on the network’s vision and needs, click here. Plus, check out...

Apr 07, 202521 min

Federal Cuts Hit Boise, Highway 55 Gets Worse, and Spring’s Best Sandwich

Big federal decisions are hitting close to home, and Boiseans are feeling the squeeze. Boise State Public Radio’s Morning Edition host George Prentice joins Lindsay Van Allen to discuss the local impact of cuts to Idaho’s Planned Parenthood and Head Start programs, plus the Boise VA. Meanwhile, with a landslide and the closure of a major highway up north are we about to see a traffic nightmare on Highway 55? Plus: we recommend a delicious sandwich at Lindsay’s favorite new local restaurant, and ...

Apr 04, 202529 min

The Pettiest Boise Gripes

For all the things we love about living in Boise, there are a few issues we simply can't ignore. Like the springtime stench of a certain pear tree, or the way every food and drink gets doused or infused with huckleberries. A little good-natured complaining never hurt anyone, so today host Lindsay Van Allen and local comedian Brittany Hargis are airing their pettiest Boise grievances—from reckless greenbelt speedsters, to courteous-to-a-fault drivers, and tyrannical geese. Let us know biggest Boi...

Apr 03, 202525 min

Insider Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

Housing prices in the Boise area have been on a wild ride, making homeownership feel impossible for many people. Today on the podcast, we’re revisiting our conversation with HomeFound Group realtor Tom Wheeler. He digs into the facts, busts housing myths, and shares his insider tips for first-time buyers. 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 more info ...

Apr 02, 202525 min

Your Guide to April 2025 in Boise

We’re not fooling, Boise: we have a roundup of the best things to do and eat in April, starting with the inside scoop on a flashy new restaurant with playful cocktails. Host Lindsay Van Allen is swapping springtime tips with contributor Matthew Melton and producer Frankie Barnhill, including a paella class worth its weight in seafood, a fresh comedy club bringing laughs to the Bench, and a guide for eating fresh local produce all season long. For even more spring planning tips, check out this to...

Apr 01, 202537 min

$2M Cut to BSU, ‘Truck Nuts’ Law, and What’s Left This Session?

The Idaho Legislature is hobbling along into it’s fourth month this session, so James Dawson from Boise State Public Radio is back with more intel on the statehouse. Will Boise State University see a $2 million budget cut, despite its efforts to peel back DEI initiatives? And Governor Little signed off on another law that targets trans folks, but opponents say “truck nuts” could be collateral damage. Plus, which reporter wins our best attitude award this session? Looking for some signs of bipart...

Mar 31, 202527 min

Anti-ACHD Bills, Treefort’s Big Bet, and Record-Breaking Heat

Happy Treefort! We’re checking in on the local music festival’s big ambitions this year, starting with a successful bid to pour liquor at the Main Stage. And, Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter is explaining to producer Frankie Barnhill why state lawmakers seem hellbent on controlling Boise roads. Plus, a record-breaking 81 degrees and the inside scoop on the new Oldspeak Bar in Garden City. Here’s ACHD Commissioner Kent Goldthorpe’s Facebook post criticizing the Idaho Legislature. Want so...

Mar 28, 202530 min

What’s the Limit for Anti-LGBTQ Bills in Idaho?

This legislative session has featured a record-breaking wave of anti-LGBTQ bills. From attacks on access to health care and bathrooms, to an effort to roll back marriage equality — the message is clear and terrifying for Boise’s LGBTQ community. Mistie Dellicarpini-Tolman from Planned Parenthood has been tracking these bills, and is talking with host Lindsay Van Allen about what comes next in the fight for equality. Want some more Boise legislative news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter whe...

Mar 27, 202527 min

Secrets of Boise’s Treefort Music Fest

Treefort Music Fest kicks off in Boise today, but what actually happens behind the scenes? Festival organizer Eric Gilbert is peeling back the curtain with our host Lindsay Van Allen. They’re talking about what your favorite bands were like to work with, which musician had the most unusual requests, and who showed up chauffeured by a Rod Stewart look-alike. This is Treefort like you’ve never heard it before! Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a chea...

Mar 26, 202522 min

Boise’s Breweries Brace for Impact of Trump’s Tariffs

Are Boise breweries going through a reckoning? That’s what Steve Koonce of the Idaho Booze podcast thinks, as he reflects on the local breweries that closed in 2024. Steve’s talking with host Lindsay Van Allen about some delicious new beers on the scene, and some savvy ways local brewers are adapting to a challenging market. Will it be enough to survive President Trump’s aluminum and steel tariffs? Want some more Boise economic news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a cheat...

Mar 25, 202528 min

Public Restroom Policing, Health Care Denial Law, and English-Only Push

Big debates are unfolding at the Idaho Statehouse, so Boise State Public Radio’s James Dawson is back with host Lindsay Van Allen to dissect what’s happening in the final weeks of the legislative session. They’re talking about a bill that would regulate who can enter bathrooms and dorms based on gender, with legal consequences for institutions that don’t comply. Plus, they’re digging into how the new conscientious objection law and ‘medical freedom’ bill could impact healthcare in our state. And...

Mar 24, 202525 min

BSU President Is Leaving, Anti-Homeless Bills, and Meridian’s Protest for Inclusion

We’re back with another edition of our Friday news roundup, with plenty to chat about. Idaho lawmakers are pushing two bills that would make it harder for Boise to address homelessness — one criminalizing sleeping outside and the other blocking shelter expansion. Meanwhile, Boise State President Marlene Tromp is heading to the University of Vermont, leaving big questions about the future of Idaho’s largest university. Plus, Meridian is coming together in a colorful protest for inclusion Saturday...

Mar 21, 202530 min

Public Lands Advocates Are Raising the Alarm. Here’s Why.

From our trails to our rivers, Idaho’s public lands define us. But now they’re at risk, according to Conservation Voters for Idaho Executive Director Alexis Pickering. Federal employees tasked with managing our national forests and rangelands have been fired ahead of the busy summer recreation season, and a lawsuit from Utah threatens their sale. And what about the Trump Administration’s proposal to build affordable housing on public lands? Want more info on the public lands rally Alexis mention...

Mar 20, 202524 min

How To Party Like a Millennial at Treefort

Who says you have to stay out until 3 a.m. to have a good time at Treefort Music Fest next week? Not us, and definitely not our lower backs. So we’ve got your elder millennial’s guide to make the most of the festival without burning out. Local podcaster and performer Matthew Melton is sharing his insider tips to do Treefort smarter, not harder — because we’re not ready to retire from the fun just yet. Want some more insider tips for enjoying the festival? Check out our Hey Boise guide, and subsc...

Mar 19, 202522 min

How a New Housing Development Went From Hated to Beloved

One of Nampa’s biggest development battles just took a surprising turn. After major community pushback, the local family behind the proposal for 189 new homes unveiled an updated plan that not only addresses concerns, but also honors their Japanese-American heritage. What does this growth mean for Nampa and how does it compare to Boise’s growing pains? 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 abou...

Mar 18, 202522 min

Doctor Pipeline Threatened, Marijuana Ballot Ban, and School Chaplains

Major policy shifts are on the table this week in the Idaho Legislature. Boise State Public Radio’s James Dawson joins host Lindsay Van Allen to talk about a bill that could upend medical training for Idaho students by pulling us out of WWAMI. Meanwhile, the legislature passed a new constitutional amendment that would take the power to legalize marijuana away from voters. And if Lindsay were to have her way, she imagines which bill she would pass, amend or table — and the answer might surprise y...

Mar 17, 202525 min

Trump’s Micron Threat, West Ada Sign Showdown, and Treefort Freebies

Big money, big controversy, and big spring plans — we’ve got it all on this week’s Friday news roundup. Political scientist Charlie Hunt joins host Lindsay Van Allen to discuss how concerned we should be about President Trump’s attack on the CHIPS Act, and what it might mean for Micron. Then, they question why a West Ada teacher was told to take down “welcome” posters in her classroom. Plus, we’re dreaming of spring break and recommend Charlie’s free podcast event at Treefort Music Fest. Want so...

Mar 14, 202527 min

Why the St. Luke’s Abortion Lawsuit Might Work

Idaho’s abortion ban is pushing doctors to the brink, and Boise-based St. Luke’s says enough is enough. The hospital system is taking a stand in court, challenging the laws it says puts patients’ lives at risk. But why are they the only hospital system in the country willing to take on this fight? States Newsroom national reproductive rights reporter Kelcie Moseley-Morris joins host Lindsay Van Allen to dig into the legal battle, the community response, and the potential nationwide impact. Want ...

Mar 13, 202523 min

Recession Fears? Add These $10 Meals To Your Rotation

National economic news this week is a little scary, but thankfully — Boise still has cheap places to grab a hearty meal. So we’re re-sharing our Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter’s inside scoop on $10 meals that your budget will love. And yes, you might still have a couple bucks left to tip! You just have to know where to look. Want some more Boise food recommendations and news? Head over to our Hey Boise newsletter where you’ll get a toolkit to the city every weekday morning. Learn more ...

Mar 12, 202522 min

The Alarming Impact of Idaho’s Lower Literacy Rate

Idaho’s literacy rates took a hit during the pandemic, and years later, our students are still struggling to get back to pre-COVID reading levels. These lower literacy rates put our kids at a greater risk for struggles in education, employment, and even the criminal justice system. One solution? Reading at home with parents and guardians. Host Lindsay Van Allen is joined by United Way of Treasure Valley’s Savannah Lewis to help us understand how the Children’s Book Drive is working to change the...

Mar 11, 202522 min

Firing Squad Executions, $253M Tax Breaks, and Session End Date Bets

The Idaho Legislature is making some high-stakes decisions and Boise State Public Radio’s James Dawson is joining host Lindsay Van Allen to dissect what could happen next. A proposal that would make the firing squad the state’s go-to execution method is on the governor’s desk. Meanwhile, Governor Little signed a $253 million income tax bill, warning it could strain the state’s budget. And while the session drags on, we’re placing bets: Will lawmakers actually wrap up on time this year? Want some...

Mar 10, 202528 min

Governor Ignores Voters, Idahoans Protest, and Boise Bingo Goes Hard

Idahoans are calling, emailing, and protesting — but are lawmakers listening? KTVB’s Brian Holmes joins host Lindsay Van Allen this week to discuss how Governor Brad Little ignored a wave of public opposition and signed a school choice tax credit bill. Meanwhile, grassroots protests are ramping up at the Capitol as part of the national 50501 movement. Plus, we’re laughing about a patriotic Canadian goose and the surprisingly competitive bingo scene on the Boise Bench. Want some more Boise news? ...

Mar 07, 202527 min

Will Finding a Doctor Get Even Harder With This Bill?

Idaho lawmakers are taking aim at WWAMI, the decades-old program that helps Gem State students become doctors. With our state already facing the worst doctor shortage in the country, this proposal could make things even worse — especially in rural areas. Opponents of the bill say it’s driven more by politics than policy. Dr. Andrea Christopher joins host Lindsay Van Allen to dig into what the fallout could be for future doctors, patients, and our state’s already fragile healthcare system. Want s...

Mar 06, 202527 min

Where To Find Boise’s Best Breakfast Sandwiches

Some people say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but our host Lindsay Van Allen says it’s the most delicious! Luckily, our very own Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter has your guide to the best breakfast sandwiches around town. They break down the freshest, most portable, and most underrated local spots — so you know exactly where to go when you’re craving a tasty morning bite. Let us know your favorite breakfast sandwich spot by sending us a voicemail or text: 208-546-9485...

Mar 05, 202523 min

Who Is Behind the City of Boise’s Viral Social Media?

Usually, city government social media pages aren’t funny. But the City of Boise’s social media team has cracked the internet code, turning PSAs about scooters, composting, and sewer-clogging “fatbergs” into viral gold. Host Lindsay Van Allen is talking with Elizabeth Kidd and Taylor Nash — two of the masterminds behind the city’s Instagram and TikTok accounts. We’re finding out about how they use humor to make local government fun and informative. Want some more Boise news? Head over to our Hey ...

Mar 04, 202520 min

Mythbusting Boise’s Short-Term Rental Market

Our housing market is brutal, and everyone’s looking for someone to blame. Are short-term rentals the villain driving prices up and pushing locals out? We’re revisiting our conversation with KTVB’s Justin Corr. He explains to host Lindsay Van Allen the impact of out-of-state investors and the complex forces shaping our housing crisis. 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 sponsor of t...

Mar 03, 202521 min

Coeur d’Alene Town Hall Chaos, ESI CEO Resigns, and Where to De-stress

Idaho has dominated the news cycle, making major headlines across the country. So host Lindsay Van Allen and comedienne Brittany Hargis are here to break down the week’s most notable stories. They begin with how a North Idaho woman being dragged out of a Coeur d’Alene town hall has raised major questions about free speech, then react to a Boise CEO resigning after performing a Nazi salute at a company event. Plus, Governor Brad Little signs House Bill 93 into law. If you’re looking to unwind fro...

Feb 28, 202528 min

Your Guide to March 2025 in Boise

The spring season is teasing its arrival and we’re ready! In this episode, contributor Matthew Melton gets us in the Treefort Music Fest spirit by sharing his tips to make the most of the festival while attending free events. We’re also joined by our very own Hey Boise newsletter editor Blake Hunter who recommends fresh spring eats! Host Lindsay Van Allen also shares what events she’s anticipating, including the local painters making their mark at the Idaho State Capitol. But there’s more to Mar...

Feb 27, 202528 min
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