Every year, the Republicans in the Tennessee General Assembly propose a series of anti-LGBTQ+ bills that advocates call the “Slate of Hate.” Host Marie Cecile Anderson sits down with Chaplain Dahron Annaliese Johnson , Tennessee Equality Project’s Davidson County co-chair, to learn what’s on the table this year and how the impact of these bills could stretch beyond our marginalized communities to impact everyone. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nash...
Mar 03, 2025•33 min
State legislators are considering a ban on cell phones in schools and more laws controlling Tennessee’s hemp industry , but at least they’ve (temporarily) given up on the idea of changing BNA’s name to Trump International Airport . Host Marie Cecile Anderson, producer Daniel Sumstine, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek discuss all that and more on today’s Friday News Roundup. Plus, do you know new DOGE administrator Amy Gleason , formerly of Nashville? Email us ! Want some more City Cast Na...
Feb 28, 2025•30 min
The daffodils are poking their heads up, the cherry trees are about to put on a show, and we’ve got your guide to everything happening in this month where Nashville comes alive again. From Cheekwood in Bloom to the opening of the Pinnacle — our fancy new music venue in Nashville Yards — host Marie Cecile Anderson, producer Daniel Sumstine, and Hey Nashville newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury are talking about the stuff you need to know to make the most of March. If you’re looking for even MORE...
Feb 27, 2025•25 min
Where are the safe places for creative expression in Nashville? Nina Adel, a program director at writing collective The Porch , and Nallely Ortega Prater, a poet and first-generation immigrant from Mexico, sit down with host Marie Cecile Anderson to discuss how their Immigrants Write workshop is fostering an incredible community. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter. Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicem...
Feb 26, 2025•20 min
It’s almost spring break, which means it’s time to figure out what to do with your kiddos while they’re out of school. Our Hey Nashville newsletter editor and token parent Margaret Kingsbury sits down with kidfluencer Laura Hartley, a.k.a. TNLittles on Instagram, to swap suggestions for the best kid-friendly eateries and bars in town, from the best restaurant playgrounds to some surprisingly great date-night spots for when your sitter falls through. **This episode originally aired November 19, 2...
Feb 25, 2025•20 min
CoreCivic is the largest private prison company in the nation, and it’s based right here in Nashville. Their biggest facility in the state, nearby Trousdale Turner Correctional Center , is currently under investigation by the Department of Justice — but the company’s CEO and stockholders are expecting significant financial growth under the Trump administration. Nashville Banner criminal justice reporter Steven Hale joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to help us understand why CoreCivic thinks their...
Feb 24, 2025•24 min
A thrilling Metro Council meeting this week ended in a cliffhanger, as CMs voted to adjourn due to snow in the middle of the Fusus guardrails debate. Contributor and Nashville Scene columnist Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek for more on that, and a Historic Zoning Commission realignment that caused confusion. Plus, students speak out about safety and book bans, the Trump Administration’s funding cuts and DEI mandates impact local schools , ...
Feb 21, 2025•32 min
What will it take for Nashville’s booming hip-hop scene to get the recognition and industry resources it deserves? Producer Daniel Sumstine sits down with Nashville Public Radio senior music writer Jewly Hight to discuss her current series of stories on new opportunities for artists who want to keep calling Music City home. Learn more about the sponsors of this February 20th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign...
Feb 20, 2025•26 min
If you just think of American Legion Post 82 on Gallatin as a great honky-tonk, you’re missing out on its real purpose, and given recent cuts to programs that serve veterans at the federal level, it’s a great time to learn what this place really does. Post commanders Shannon Rasmussen, Eric Rasmussen, and Josh Jordan join host Marie Cecile Anderson to talk about how they’re leveraging Nashville’s music scene — including celebrities like Jack White — to provide healing and community for their fel...
Feb 19, 2025•25 min
If you’re still pursuing your fitness goals for 2025, why not check out a class with a cult following? Margaret Maddox YMCA instructor Jenny Littleton teaches water aerobics and yoga with an inimitable style that’s won her loyal fans, but it’s no surprise: She’s also one-half of iconic Nashville musical comedy duo Doyle & Debbie . Host Marie Cecile Anderson sits down with Jenny to swap stories about everything from their beloved YMCA community to taking the stage at the Ryman. Learn more abo...
Feb 18, 2025•23 min
From the State of the State to the state of our trash, we’re covering some of the biggest headlines in town on today’s Friday News Roundup. Host Marie Cecile Anderson, producer Daniel Sumstine, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek begin with a lovely bouquet of news you can use ( get those Real IDs, folks ) before tackling this week’s state legislature headlines and the very real problem that Rutherford County doesn’t want to be our garbage can anymore. Plus: We learn shocking news about Dani...
Feb 14, 2025•26 min
Mattie Bush-Martin from Amelia’s Flowers joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to answer our burning flower questions: What’s the best flower to cheer someone up? Is buying flowers for yourself economically responsible? And does she hate Valentine’s Day as much as we do? Plus, we get the scoop on Pont Neuf , her buzzy new bar where you can sip a cocktail while building a bouquet. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter. Follow us @citycastna...
Feb 13, 2025•20 min
The shooter at Antioch High School was a “walking red flag.” So why didn’t anyone intervene? WPLN/Nashville Public Radio reporter Paige Pfleger joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to discuss her recent collaboration with ProPublica on the warning signs that were missed by officials, and how Tennessee’s lax gun laws leave few paths to prevent future tragedies. Plus: Paige explains how her reporting in Scott County could lead to legislative change to our state’s gun dispossession rules . Want some mo...
Feb 12, 2025•24 min
As American Baptist College celebrates its 100th year, university president Dr. Forrest E. Harris joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to discuss this small HBCU’s massive legacy and its current role in the literal landscape of Nashville, sitting just north of River North and the East Bank development. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter. Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 615-200-6392 Interested...
Feb 11, 2025•26 min
Feeling the urge to get away? Lucky for us, Nashville-based writer, editor, and travel journalist Amelia Edelman (aka @ameliaearoundtheworld on Instagram) is here to share her top glamping spots near Nashville. As a professional globe-trotter, Amelia breaks down the latest glamping trends, what amenities these luxury camping spots offer, and why reading the fine print is always a must. Whether you're looking for a cozy winter retreat or a unique outdoor escape for the whole family, this episode ...
Feb 10, 2025•25 min
After a Metro Council meeting that reached “Parks & Rec”-style levels of hilarity, contributor Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to catch us up on what went down. Plus we’ve got the newly-filed bills that caught our eye at the legislature this week — including Pot for Potholes! — and a vibe check that includes Kroger, In-N-Out , and the chance to catch a real live Puppy Bowl at the Zoo on Sunday. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? ...
Feb 07, 2025•31 min
It might seem strange to think about summer camp options in February, but as any stressed-out parent can tell you, slots are already filling up. Kelly Davis, the mom behind Frecklefaced Adventures , joins Hey Nashville newsletter editor Margaret Kingsbury to talk about local options for your kiddos to have fun this summer. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter. Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail at:...
Feb 06, 2025•25 min
Nashville immigrant communities are experiencing uncertainty and fear as President Trump’s plans for mass deportations begin to take shape. Sarah Subramanian, a staff attorney for the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition , joins host Marie Cecile Anderson to list the key rights that everyone should know — regardless of their status. Sarah also gives recommendations on what to do if you encounter ICE at home or in the workplace, and provides as many answers as she can as we wait for g...
Feb 05, 2025•20 min
Music Director Giancarlo Guerrero is stepping down after 17 years at the helm of the Nashville Symphony . He chats with executive producer Whitney Pastorek — herself the daughter of symphony musicians — about his GRAMMY Award-winning tenure, and why you gotta get down to the Schermerhorn before he hands in the baton this May. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter. Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text us or leave a voicemail ...
Feb 04, 2025•26 min
Ahead of the Nashville Black Market ’s Black History Month Expo at the Fairgrounds this weekend, co-founder and community advocate Carlos Partee sits down with host Marie Cecile Anderson to preview an event that’s part outdoor mall, part family reunion, and 100% dedicated to amplifying and empowering the work of local Black entrepreneurs and artists. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter. Follow us @citycastnashville You can also text...
Feb 03, 2025•24 min
The TN General Assembly blazed through a four-day special session this week, and the Republican-controlled legislature successfully passed Gov. Bill Lee’s signature school voucher plan , as well as an immigration bill with a provision that seemingly targets Nashville by making it a felony for any local public official to vote in favor of “sanctuary policies.” Host Marie Cecile Anderson, producer Daniel Sumstine, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are breaking that down on today’s Friday New...
Jan 31, 2025•30 min
February doesn’t have to suck! Host Marie Cecile Anderson, producer Daniel Sumstine, and executive producer Whitney Pastorek are here to help you celebrate Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, and Nashville’s world-class music scene — three great reasons to bundle up and get out of the house this month. If you’re looking for even MORE options, we’ve covered stories from across the city in recent episodes: We dug into what’s happening with the financial struggles at Tennessee State University , ...
Jan 30, 2025•25 min
Amid budget cuts, the Nashville Public Library has reduced some of its community wellness classes. These classes come at no cost and have been widely popular, serving a diverse range of Nashville residents. Host Marie Cecile Anderson chats with Liz Veyhl of Small World Yoga to explore the impact of BeWell's wellness programs on Nashville communities. They address the funding shortfall threatening these services and Liz's grassroots efforts to ensure their continuity. If you'd like to donate to c...
Jan 29, 2025•24 min
What makes Nashville’s indie music scene so special, and why are independent venues the heart of Music City? In this episode, host Marie Cecile Anderson is joined by Chris Cobb, President of Music Venue Alliance Nashville, to discuss the mission behind 615 Indie Live . Chris shares his insider perspective on how this groundbreaking festival showcases over 50 local artists across 14 beloved venues, highlights the resilience of Nashville’s music community, and explains how we can preserve these cu...
Jan 28, 2025•26 min
Unleash the Tums: It’s Nashville Scene Hot Chicken Week 2025 ! Master of ceremonies Chris Chamberlain returns to give host Marie Cecile Anderson the rundown. From hot chicken fettuccine to an intimidating wing-eating challenge, there’s options aplenty to enjoy for just $8 (if destroying your stomach lining is your thing). Download the Hot Chicken Week app and get ready to flock to some great local restaurants next week! We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if ...
Jan 27, 2025•19 min
We’ve got the latest updates on Wednesday’s tragic Antioch High School shooting , and Metro Council contributor Nicole Williams joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek to run down what happened at Tuesday’s first Metro Council meeting of 2025 — and explain a new state bill that could see local officials hit with felonies for simply casting a vote. Plus, we found some good news, from Silver Sands, Nate Bargatze, and our favorite community fridge. The family of Ant...
Jan 24, 2025•31 min
Nashville is grieving its second school shooting in two years, after a student opened fire in the cafeteria at Antioch High School yesterday , killing another teenager and himself, and wounding a third. Host Marie Cecile Anderson and executive producer Whitney Pastorek deliver updates on what we know, and try to bring context to this senseless turn of events. If you or someone you know needs mental health support in the wake of this tragedy, we encourage you to reach out to 988 by phone or text....
Jan 23, 2025•14 min
In November, Mayor Freddie O’Connell signed the Office of Youth Safety into law. Councilmember At-Large Delishia Porterfield — who was instrumental in creating the new office — sits down with host Marie Cecile Anderson to discuss why it’s necessary and how she hopes it will teach conflict resolution, curb youth gun violence, and address the lack of “third spaces” in our city. Want some more City Cast Nashville news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Nashville newsletter. Follow us @citycastn...
Jan 22, 2025•25 min
The Tennessee legislature is back in session, which means plenty of news is on the way — but where should you get it, and who’s telling the truth? Today, we’re revisiting a conversation between Grace Fuisz and Holly McCall, editor of the nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization Tennessee Lookout . Together, they provide a guide to Nashville’s local media landscape, covering when and how to fact-check, the importance of healthy skepticism, and where to find unbiased, nonpartisan information. **Th...
Jan 21, 2025•21 min
Reporter and author Steven Hale joins host Marie Cecile Anderson and producer Daniel Sumstine to reflect on this week’s biggest news stories. Steven breaks down Metro’s response to last week’s snowstorm and explains why the emergency overflow shelter turned away unhoused Nashvillians during freezing conditions. We’re also unpacking the latest Metro Arts drama, TPAC’s announcement that they’re not moving to the East Bank, an update on the transit plan lawsuit , and some unexpected news about Porn...
Jan 17, 2025•29 min
