Well, it’s official, Houstonians have really bad commutes. Plus, we’re getting a new area code so we’re judging all of the other existing ones as well. And, things got heated in Austin regarding a new immigration bill and how it would impact Houston. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by special guest Reginald Smith Jr. from the Houston Grand Opera’s newest production Falstaff to recap the biggest stories impacting H-Town to start the week. Featured stories: See Reginald in action as Falstaff at th...
Oct 31, 2023•20 min
There are 14 amendments to the Texas constitution on this year’s ballot. From property tax relief to funding new state parks, Houston Landing staff writer Tim Carlin joins host Raheel Ramzanali to breakdown the key propositions for you before you head out to the polls. Learn more about whats on the ballot by reading the articles below: Read Tim’s work on Houston Landing The numbers behind Prop 4 City of Houston Prop B Harris county hospital district, Prop A Looking for more Houston news? Then si...
Oct 30, 2023•23 min
Dusty Baker is calling it a career, but does that mean the Astros window to win a title is closing? Plus, we all know Beyoncé is popular, but you won’t believe how popular she is when it comes to the economic impact of her tour. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Houston Chronicle writer Marco Torres and Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz to talk about the biggest stories of the week. News from around Houston: Dusty Baker retires after Astros postseason exit. Shelia Jackson-Lee responds to her l...
Oct 27, 2023•30 min
As the siege on Gaza continues and pro-Palestine protests continue in Houston, what impact do international events have on the city? Lead producer Dina Kesbeh talks to University of Houston professor Dr. Abdel Razzaq Takriti, Dr. Daniel Cohen, history professor at Rice University specializing in Israel and Palestine, and activist Hannah Thalenberg from Jewish Voice for Peace Houston about the local, state, and national implications of international events and why it matters for elected officials...
Oct 26, 2023•37 min
Are you ready to go on an H-Town taco road trip? Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by the taco king Marco A. Torres, also the Taco Columnist at the Houston Chronicle, to get his best picks of the tacos you need to try across the entire city! Best Tacos Spots Taconazo (4003 Fulton Street) Alamo Tamale & Taco (809 Berry Road) Inside the loop Tacos Bomberos (2206 Edwards Street, Holler Brewing @ Sawyer Yards) Gerardo's Drive-In (609 Patton Street) Teotihuacan Mexican Cafe (1511 Airline Drive) Dow...
Oct 25, 2023•20 min
Early voting is underway and a couple of stories have people talking. From polling locations to potential dirty politics, host Raheel Ramzanali and Hey Houston editor Brooke Lewis talk about the latest in the election cycle. Plus, who are you inviting to a party via a billboard? It’s time to start the week with some of the biggest stories in H-Town. Featured stories: Alleged Sheila Jackson Lee tape White truck removed from Buffalo Bayou ADA compliant polling locations Pappasitos turning 40 Drake...
Oct 24, 2023•24 min
The EPA recently denied Texas’ ozone reduction plan, but how does that impact you and your health? Jennifer Hadayia, Executive Director at Air Alliance Houston, joins host Raheel Ramzanali to talk about what this rejection means for the future of our region, why ozone pollution is important to monitor, and what sanctions we could see in our regions because of our failure to comply. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let’s Talk! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning n...
Oct 23, 2023•23 min
It’s finally Friday and that means we’re recapping the news that impacted H-Town. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz and media personality Antre’Chelle Nova to talk about Houston's push for hydrogen, early voting, vandalism in the Pleasantville community, and more. Houston selected to be a hydrogen hub Texas needs more water workers Crime continues to be an issue for voters Find early voting stations on Harris Votes Pleasantville residents facing vandalism Texa...
Oct 20, 2023•31 min
Host Raheel Ramzanali is taking on his youngest sister, Maheen, who grew up in Houston and now lives in Atlanta in a spirted debate about which city is better: Houston or Atlanta. From best food to overall culture, it’s time we pick a winner in the Houston vs Atlanta rivalry! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let’s Talk! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Twitter and Instagram Have feedback or a show idea ? Let us know! or leav...
Oct 19, 2023•20 min
Picking the right sushi spot can be hard. From unique spots to freshest fish, Houston has it all. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by local food blogger Anthony Vu aka TheEatingAnt on Instagram to get his recommendations for the best sushi spots in Houston. Try out Anthony's recs below: Hokkaido Sushi Ginza Kura Revolving Sushi Bar Handies Douzo Uchi Kata Robata Roka Akor Sushi by Hidden Hidden Omakase Oheya by Uchi Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Housto...
Oct 18, 2023•13 min
The streets of downtown were filled with pro-Palestine protests, but what else is the Houston community doing to bring awareness and raise humanitarian aid? Plus, a new study found that Texas is about to go through a major population boom in the next few decades. And, we love the Houston food scene, but one website does not. Host Raheel Ramzanali, lead producer Dina Kesbeh, and producer Carlignon Jones recap those stories and more! Featured stories: Guide on the siege of Gaza Proceeds for Palest...
Oct 17, 2023•25 min
School vouchers are once again in the news, but could the handling of charter schools in Texas be an indication to how the program will run? Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Kiah Collier to learn more about her reporting in the Texas Tribune on charter schools and how it will impact the ongoing special session in Austin. Kiah Collier’s latest on charter schools in Texas Texas senate unveils priority school voucher bill What school vouchers could mean for public schools Interested in advertisin...
Oct 16, 2023•20 min
The Astros are back in the American League Championship Series for the seventh straight time, but the Texas Rangers stand in their way to defend their championship. If that’s not enough to play for, there’s a lot of bad blood between the two teams that stems back to 2017. Plus, we have important updates on Bissonnet street, Montrose, a discussion on Gaza, and more. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz and narrative strategist Shiyam Galyon to recap the biggest st...
Oct 13, 2023•29 min
Look, there’s no way around it, you’re going to be stuck in traffic when driving the Houston streets. But, you can be better prepared to handle traffic and maybe even beat it with the right tips. Host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on lead producer Dina Kesbeh, producer Carlignon Jones, and Hey Houston writer Brooke Lewis to get their best tips on beating and avoiding Houston traffic. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let’s Talk! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning ...
Oct 12, 2023•26 min
Kolaches have been an institution in H-Town for decades, but with so many great bakeries to choose from, where should you go first? Host Raheel Ramzanali is calling on Houston food content creator Shawn the Food Sheep to get his recommendations of places you need to try ASAP. From fruit fillings to hearty meat choices, these kolaches will have you ready to conquer the day. Kolache Shoppe Koala Kolache Koffeteria Shipley Donuts The Original Kolache Shoppe Shawn The Food Sheep on Instagram and Tik...
Oct 11, 2023•18 min
As kids we would’ve loved a four-day school week, but how are we feeling about this as adults and parents? Plus, are you brave enough to ask a question during a televised debate? Host Raheel Ramzanali and lead producer Dina Kesbeh get the week started with a rundown of stories that are impacting H-Town! Featured stories: Nutria on the rise Crosby ISD 4-day school week Mayoral debate tonight Would you pay for parks? Houston Chef to battle Bobby Flay Beyoncé concert film Looking for more Houston n...
Oct 10, 2023•25 min
Can we all agree that opposing fan bases should never start a “we want Houston” chant?! Well, Minnesota fans started one, but will the Astros respond? Plus, there’s a lot of HOA drama going down in H-Town. Host Raheel Ramzanali and Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz recap the biggest stories from the week. Featured stories: The Daytripper Season 14 Premier Governor Abbott calls special session Defund the HOA flag story SoundThinking civil rights $48 million approved to fix leaks James Lombardino...
Oct 06, 2023•21 min
We’re about a month away from picking Houston’s next mayor and the interest in the election has been low. We’re changing that today as host Raheel Ramzanali learns about the candidates, the biggest storylines, and more with Houston Landing’s political reporter Paul Cobler. Dive deeper into the mayoral race by checking out the stories below: Read Paul’s work on the mayoral race here What Houstonians care about with the next mayor Harris Votes website Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up fo...
Oct 05, 2023•16 min
No matter which direction you head, there are fun fall adventures to be had in Houston. Today on the final installment of our Fall Guide, the entire City Cast team joins host Raheel Ramzanali to layout some fun fall itineraries for each cardinal direction. Lead producer Dina Kesbeh is handling the north, producer Carlignon Jones has the south, Hey Houston writer Brooke Lewis is taking care of the west, and Raheel handles the east. Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsl...
Oct 04, 2023•25 min
From haunted houses to ghost tours, Houston has a scary side waiting to be explored this fall. In part two of our Fall Getaway Guide, KHOU digital anchor Brandi Smith joins host Raheel Ramzanali to give her recommendations of the spookiest attractions you need to check out in H-Town. If you want to get in the Halloween mood, try out these spots! Watch all of Brandi’s Spooky stories here Purgatory Scream Park in Kingwood RedRum Fear Park – Richmond Houston Terror Dome Creepy Hollow Haunted House ...
Oct 03, 2023•21 min
October is finally here and even though the weather is still kind of warm, we’re still celebrating with our Fall Getaway Guide. This three part series will focus on some unique adventures, scares, and eats around the Houston area. Today, host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by HoustonMom.com co-creator Meagan Clanahan to get her recommendations for the best fall farms to visit for photos, activities, and more! Dewberry Farms - use code FALL6 for $6 off Old Time Christmas Farm Blessington Farms P-6 Fa...
Oct 02, 2023•18 min
Mayor Sylvester Turner held his final State of the City, but what will you remember him for as the mayor? Plus, there’s a major health lawsuit going down in H-Town that could have an impact on your bills. And, oil prices are going up so are we about to feel it once again? Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz and media personality Antre’Chelle Nova to break it all down. Featured stories: Medicaid issues in Texas State of the City address Drug ring bust A push for ...
Sep 29, 2023•28 min
It’s Ask a Stupid Question Day and we’re celebrating as a team by answering stupid questions about Houston. From why we call it a feeder to learning how to square dance, host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on lead producer Dina Kesbeh, producer Carlignon Jones, and Hey Houston editor Brooke Lewis to answer these pressing stupid questions! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram @CityCastHouston Don’t have social media? Then leave us...
Sep 28, 2023•26 min
Everyone has their favorite burger in Houston, but it’s time to expand that list! Host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on Nick Scurfield, co-founder of Trill Burgers and president of the Scurfield Group PR Firm, to get his top picks of burgers in H-Town you need to try now! The Q Stack at Q’s Deli Spicy Greek Burger at Tornado Burger Shake Shack in Rice Village Butter Burgers at Riel Double Double at Tookie’s Trill Burger FM Kitchen Burger Animal Style Double Double at In N Out Stanton City Bites F...
Sep 27, 2023•26 min
Why did the Art Institute of Houston just suddenly close? Also, what is a red tide? Host Raheel Ramzanali recaps all of the news with producer Carlignon Jones and gets her favorite moments and gripes from the Beyoncé concert. Featured stories: Texans are tipping less Economic impact of Beyoncé in Houston Red Tide in Galveston NASA brings back 4.5 billion old astroid sample Crickets are taking over Art Institute of Houston closes Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newslet...
Sep 26, 2023•25 min
HISD Superintendent Mike Miles has one goal: to improve the education for students in HISD schools. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Superintendent Miles to talk about the first month of school, the feedback he’s receiving from teachers and students, and what things he could’ve done differently to start his tenure as superintendent. HISD news Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram @CityCastHouston Don’t have social media? Then ...
Sep 25, 2023•21 min
Yes, Drake is moving to Houston, but what other celebrities would you like to see move here? Host Raheel Ramzanali puts Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz and media personality Antre’Chelle Nova on the spot to get their answer. Plus, the trio also breakdown the newest report on racial disparity in traffic stops, the new county budget, racism online, and so much more! Featured stories: HPD report on racial disparity Taral Patel racism The future of BCycle City Cast Houston’s episode on BCycle Mar...
Sep 22, 2023•33 min
Driving in Houston requires a therapy session at times because of how bad the roads are and that’s exactly what’s happening on today’s episode. Houston sports radio legend John Granato joins host Raheel Ramzanali and newsletter editor Brooke Lewis to breakdown the worst roads, worst freeways, and areas to avoid around H-Town. Pothole swallows entire car Follow John Granato on Twitter Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram @CityCa...
Sep 21, 2023•23 min
Hispanics are the largest group of people in Texas and it’s only right we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through the best hispanic restaurants in Houston. Houston Chronicle taco columnist Marco Torres joins host Raheel Ramzanali to give his recommendations of the best Mexican, Cuban, Dominican, and other hispanic restaurants you need to try this month! Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by trying out Marcos recommendations below: Space City Birria Tatemo Xalisko Flor de Cuba Tex- Chick Dominic...
Sep 20, 2023•18 min
Hope you’ve been saving because that Beyoncé ticket is not going to be cheap. Host Raheel Ramzanali and Hey Houston writer Brooke Lewis talk about how expensive tickets are, why trees in Hermann Park are in danger, and a new HPD policy regarding how they pursue alleged criminals. New chase policy Texans fight video Republican Civil War Hermann Park trees 40,000 piece puzzle Fake service animal law Cold winter predictions Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let’s Talk! Looking for more Hous...
Sep 19, 2023•21 min
