It’s Friday so host Raheel Ramzanali recapping all of the big news from the week. Monique Welch, Houston Landing’s diverse communities reporter, and Marco Torres, Houston Chronicle taco columnist, are joining him to talk about CenterPoint’s new resiliency plan (and who will pay for it!), a new survey about some Houstonians wanting to leave the city, the Michelin Guide finally coming to H-town, and so much more! Dive deeper into the stories we talked about today: CenterPoint being held accountabl...
Jul 19, 2024•28 min
It’s been over a week since Hurricane Beryl ripped through our region, and while we’ve been talking about how it impacted Houston, what was it like for our friends in Galveston? From slowing down their tourism season to what we can do as Houstonians to help out the island, Mary Beth Bassett of Visit Galveston is talking to host Raheel Ramzanali about how Galveston is doing after Beryl. Here’s more about the stories we talked about in today’s show: Visit Galveston Galveston primed for comeback af...
Jul 18, 2024•15 min
It’s been a tough time for millions of Houstonians since Hurricane Beryl left widespread damage and power outages. Some folks are still without power, and even if you have the lights back on, a lot of us are feeling tired, even traumatized. So for today’s City Cast Houston podcast, host Raheel Ramzanali is teaming up with Houstonia Magazine’s editor-in-chief Emma Balter to bring you some ideas and recommendations to bring a little joy back into your daily life and regain sanity after Beryl. Here...
Jul 17, 2024•19 min
It’s been over a week since Beryl hit H-Town, but we’re just starting to learn about the short and long-term impacts on businesses that have been without power. Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking ABC13 reporter Pooja Lodhia about that story, how utility workers are being threatened, a new class action case against CenterPoint, and some fond memories about columnist Ken Hoffman. Here's more about the stories from today's episode. 'A freight train's coming' | Gov. Abbott, Lt. Gov. Patrick demand ans...
Jul 16, 2024•26 min
Hurricane Beryl’s strong winds knocked out Houston’s power, but that was not its only impact. Neighborhoods in Northeast Houston also suffered flooding, even though Beryl wasn’t considered a major rain event. To find out why and how that could have been prevented, host Raheel Ramzanali talks with Elena Bruess, environmental reporter at the Houston Landing, and Alice Liu, with West Street Recovery. Here are links about the stories and advocacy we talked about in today’s show: Poor drainage leaves...
Jul 15, 2024•27 min
To say it’s been a week is an understatement! Host Raheel Ramzanali is calling on Antre’chelle Nova and Evan Mintz to help recap the week since Hurricane Beryl hit Houston. They cover the politics of recovery, how long it will take to clean up the debris, and CenterPoint’s latest timeline for restoring power. They also remember some of the victims of the deadly storm and how the power outage at traffic lights is turning Houstonians into terrible drivers. Finally, it is 713 Day tomorrow, so they’...
Jul 12, 2024•29 min
It’s been an exhausting week as the city rebuilds after Hurricane Beryl. So, host Raheel Ramzanali is decompressing a bit by talking to executive producer Laura Isensee and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis about what they’ll remember from the hurricane from their personal experience, tips on recovering from the storm, why we’re all so tired of being #HoustonStrong , and more! Here’s more about the resources and stories mentioned in today’s show: What-a-power: Houston-area residents hun...
Jul 11, 2024•23 min
As the city recovers from Hurricane Beryl, one of the hardest parts has been the lack of power for millions of Houstonians. So, how long will we be without power? Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Houston Landing reporter Paul Cobler about CenterPoint’s timeline to restore electricity for Houstonians, why it could take a while, how to stay cool, and more. Here are the stories and resources we mentioned in the show: Houston’s widespread power outages will lead to more danger When will power be ...
Jul 10, 2024•18 min
Hurricane Beryl battered Houston when it made landfall as a Category 1 storm, leaving millions without power, including most of the City Cast Houston team. But we have you covered! Executive Producer Laura Isensee talks with Justin Ballard , newsroom meteorologist at the Houston Chronicle, about how Beryl broke records, what recovery will look like, and what this all means for hurricane season. For storm updates, check out Space City Weather , live blogs from the Houston Chronicle and the Housto...
Jul 09, 2024•22 min
A former Houston cop is facing felony charges for tampering with a government document. It’s just the latest in a major investigation and fallout from corruption on a small Texas city police force. We’re revisiting a conversation between host Raheel Ramzanali and KHOU investigative reporter Jeremy Rogalski to learn how it all began and why it should matter to Houstonians. Stories we mentioned in today's episode: Two more former Coffee City officers indicted Trial date set for former Coffee City ...
Jul 08, 2024•27 min
Need a new summer activity? You’ve probably heard about pickleball, but getting started can be confusing. So, host Raheel Ramzanali and is talking to pickleball enthusiast Johnny Lee on how every beginner in Houston can jump into their new addiction this summer…pickleball! From the courts you should play at to the delicious eats at the many facilities, the duo will get you ready to go from beginner to pro in no time! Try these spots out! How to play pickleball PKL Social Free into to pickleball ...
Jul 05, 2024•22 min
City Cast CEO David Plotz sits down with hosts from all 13 City Cast daily local podcast hubs to talk about what stories they’re watching in their hometowns that are likely to impact yours too. Listen in for how Raheel Ramzanali’s story stacks up against the rest. 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 a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedba...
Jul 03, 2024•49 min
It may be a holiday week with the Fourth of July, but the news in Houston is not slowing down. Executive Producer Laura Isensee is filling in as host and teaming up with Hey Houston Newsletter Editor Brooke Lewis to break down the biggest stories of the week so far. From the latest in the murder of Jocelyn Nungaray to new libraries for two Houston neighborhoods, we have the news that Houston’s talking about. Stories we mentioned in today's episode: Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick vows to propose ‘Joc...
Jul 02, 2024•20 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 Houston community. July is all about freedom, but even after Independence Day, there are so many things to do in Houston all month long. From fun (and cool!) indoor activities to summer traditions like going to the beach, our guide to July will help you beat the heat and make the most of this month in H-Town. Do you love taking a good summer road trip? We put togeth...
Jul 01, 2024•26 min
It’s Friday so you know we’re breaking down all of the stories that impacted the city this week. Host Raheel Ramzanali and Houston Public Media news producer Lucio Vasquez are talking about the new drama between Mayor Whitmire and Judge Hidalgo, the latest Medical Center scandal where doctors were literally leaving heart surgeries, why an inmate has been inside Harris County Jail for 18 years, and more! Featured stories: Baylor surgeon continues to treat patients after whistleblower allegations ...
Jun 28, 2024•24 min
From a quick one hour trip to long haul adventures, Houston has so many fun road trip options. So, host Raheel Ramzanali and Sofia Gonzalez, Houstonia Magazine’s travel editor, are creating a list of the best road trips to take this summer with your friends, family, and even solo! Check out these spots for your next summer road trip! Check out Sofia’s work in Houstonia Magazine Galveston Surfside Blue Coast Highway Drive The Pearl in San Antonio Mi Tierra y Panadería The San Antonio Riverwalk Sa...
Jun 27, 2024•20 min
This year, Houston racked up nearly a dozen semifinalists in the James Beards Awards, known as the Oscars of the food scene. But then only one made it to the final round — chef Emmanuel Chavez of Tatemó — where they were shut out. Why did Houston go home empty handed? And does this mean Space City’s food scene is on the decline? City Cast Houston host Raheel Ramzanali breaks it down with Bao Ong, the Houston Chronicle’s restaurant columnist. For full reviews on the restaurants and awards in this...
Jun 26, 2024•24 min
Host Raheel Ramzanali and ABC13 reporter Shannon Ryan are helping you learn about the stories everybody is talking about to start the week. The duo are breaking down why corruption charges were filed against a Midtown Redevelopment Authority official, how an inmate just walked away from a unit, why an HISD admin was taunting parents, why Mayor Whitmire is calling out the Houston Zoo, and more! Featured stories: The latest on the murder of Jocelyn Nungaray via ABC 13 Corruption charges filed agai...
Jun 25, 2024•26 min
Nationally, San Francisco and Stonewall in New York City get a lot of attention in the history for gay rights. But Houston actually was at the center of a movement for radical acceptance, through the power of community radio. To learn more, host Raheel Ramzanali is talking with Emily Vinson, an archivist at the University of Houston and Timmy Martinez with Legacy Community Health. DISCOVER MORE: Check out the archives of local LGBTQ community radio at the University of Houston. Learn about the h...
Jun 24, 2024•28 min
We’re recapping a wet and soggy week in Houston with some of the hottest news. Host Raheel Ramzanali, Monique Welch, Houston Landing’s diverse communities reporter, and Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz are breaking down why METRO is shutting down a major project, how a community activist got an important report on a popular street safety project, why some people are facing a barrier in our courts, and more! Featured stories: Interpreter cost and availability pose barrier in courts 11th Street ...
Jun 21, 2024•26 min
Leaving your comfort zone and breaking routine can be challenging. That’s why host Raheel Ramzanali, executive producer Laura Isensee, Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis, and producer Carlignon Jones are laying out new ways to leave your comfort zone around H-Town with adventures, activities, and more! Try out these recommendations! Well Done cooking classes Camping spots around the Houston area Improv classes at Station Theater or Houston School of Improv Houston Area Urban League Young...
Jun 20, 2024•24 min
It’s a wet start to the week, but the news isn’t slowing down. Host Raheel Ramzanali and producer Carlignon Jones are talking about how HPD put a man in jail for mistaken identity and how he eventually got out, why there’s tension within HISD, why the Texas Supreme Court is blocking Harris County’s guaranteed income program, how George Strait set a new record, and more! Featured stories: Where to celebrate Juneteenth in Houston and Galveston Houston police sent the wrong man to jail for 6 weeks....
Jun 18, 2024•24 min
As we get ready to celebrate Juneteenth this week, we want to revisit how the historic holiday became one of the most important days of our region. Houston artist Reginald Adams and his team have painted at least 10 Juneteenth murals across the country and he joins City Cast Houston Host Raheel Ramzanali to explain why Juneteenth is so important to him, why it should matter to every Houstonian, and what other traditions started after Emancipation Day. LEARN MORE: Reginald Adams’ murals Juneteent...
Jun 17, 2024•19 min
City budget drama, HISD test results, and the Museum District’s very own Batman..well, kinda. Host Raheel Ramzanali is recapping a busy week in H-Town with media personality Antre’chelle Nova and Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz. The trio are talking about those stories plus the threat level of bird flu, The Woodlands getting some love for their job market, the new Texas Renaissance Festival docuseries, and more! Featured stories: City Cast Houston’s June Guide featuring Father’s Day events Ho...
Jun 14, 2024•33 min
It’s career day at City Cast Houston! Host Raheel Ramzanali is learning about three interesting Houston careers and how we can find inspiration in our own lives from these unique jobs. Just like career day in school, you’ll hear from a range of guests who work at NASA, The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and a full-time content creator on YouTube. Learn more about our guest and their careers below! Subscribe to ARPLATINUM’s Channel Check out Art of the Islamic Worlds at The Museum of Fine Arts, Ho...
Jun 13, 2024•29 min
International Sushi Day is right around the corner and we’re also wrapping up AAPI Restaurant Weeks so we wanted to find out the best places to grab sushi in Houston. 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 these sushi spots! Hokkaido Sushi Ginza Kura Revolving Sushi Bar Handies Douzo Uchi Kata Robata Roka Akor Sushi by Hidden Hidden Omakase Oheya by Uchi Looking for mor...
Jun 12, 2024•12 min
There’s a lot going on in the city so host Raheel Ramzanali is calling on Houston Press reporter Faith Bugenhagen to help him break down some of the biggest stories. They start by talking about a new trend in offices where some workers don’t feel comfortable performing a simple task. Then they get to ERCOT’s latest report on summer energy usage and how budget season is impacting Harris County. They’re also spending time on HPD’s new cameras that scan license plates, a creepy crawler that’s migra...
Jun 11, 2024•25 min
It’s June 10th aka 610 day! Host Raheel Ramzanali, TxDOT’s public information officer Danny Perez, and other surprise guests share their favorite memories of loop 610 in honor of 610 day. Plus, we learn about the history of the loop and what the future holds for one of the most important freeways in our city. Learn more: 610/69 project updates 610 and Cambridge project updates Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram @CityCastHoust...
Jun 10, 2024•24 min
It’s Friday and that means we’re recapping the biggest stories from the week. From the latest on the firefighters settlement to our first look at standardized testing results at HISD after the state takeover, host Raheel Ramzanali is breaking down those stories and more with Shafaq Patel, Axios’ Houston reporter, and Houston Landing’s diverse communities reporter Monique Welch. Learn more: Mom goes viral for not returning shopping cart Galveston climate resiliency Oyster recycling Congresswoman ...
Jun 07, 2024•32 min
How Houston are you? Host Raheel Ramzanali is chatting with producer Carlignon Jones and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis about things you have to experience to make you a REAL Houstonian. From honking in traffic to waiting in lines, you’re not a real Houstonian until you’ve… Learn more: Magic Island City Cast Houston’s Taco Guide 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 leav...
Jun 06, 2024•24 min
