Hate getting stuck in I-15 traffic? Utah is inching closer toward building out a network of paved trails that will connect the entire state, so someday you may be able to bike from Logan to St. George. Utah Dept. of Transportation Trails Division director Stephanie Tomlin joins host Ali Vallarta to talk about the shift from car-centric commuting and what these investments will bring. This episode originally aired on June 12, 2024. Related listening: Will A New Strategy Change Where We Recreate? ...
Jul 21, 2025•23 min
After six months, how's Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall's public safety plan going? Host Ali Vallarta, City Cast Salt Lake contributor Cassie Bingham, and executive producer Emily Means parse through the latest update. Plus, the Utah Mammoth's cultural commentary, a new Millcreek canyon shuttle, and a must-visit dinosaur booth at the farmers market. Resources and references: Catch up on Salt Lake City's public safety plan. Utah Mammoth schedule release video Submit a comment about a Millcre...
Jul 18, 2025•45 min
We know you can’t bring your kid to some breweries in Utah, though it’s normal in cities around the country. So, how can you hack it? City Cast Salt Lake contributor Shireen Ghorbani joins host Ali Vallarta to roundup places you can drink and bring your kiddo. Join us for 801 Day at the Gallivan Center on Friday, Aug. 1. RSVP here! Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and mo...
Jul 17, 2025•23 min
It’s hot, hot, hot in this city! So where can you cool off? City Cast Salt Lake contributor Kate Groetzinger and host Ali Vallarta roundup the best pools around the valley for everyone in your family. Join us for 801 Day at the Gallivan Center on Friday, Aug. 1. RSVP here! Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to Hey Sal...
Jul 16, 2025•27 min
Should the borscht on 3300 South be served hot or cold? In our food news roundup, Hey Salt Lake newsletter editor Terina Ria and Host Ali Vallarta put together a summer bucket list of things to eat and drink around the valley, from conveyor belt sushi and a candy complex to restaurants that have stood the test of time. Resources and references: A look inside Sugar House’s new conveyor belt sushi restaurant [Gastronomic SLC] Join us for 801 Day at the Gallivan Center on Friday, Aug. 1. RSVP here!...
Jul 15, 2025•43 min
Mayor Erin Mendenhall has a goal to make Salt Lake City more family friendly. But what does that even mean? Salt Lake City School Board member Ashley Anderson joins host Ali Vallarta to break down the ways SLC already is for kids and share some big ideas. Resources and references: The $30M SLC Schools Lost to Developers [City Cast Salt Lake] Bizarre AI Streets Story, New Utah Rankings, Free Slurpees Today [City Cast Salt Lake] Join us for 801 Day at the Gallivan Center on Friday, Aug. 1. RSVP he...
Jul 14, 2025•22 min
Is AI responsible for taking away SLC's power to make its streets safer? Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Chandler Rosenberg dive into the controversial story. Plus, Utah power rankings, hummingbird sightseeing, and free Slurpees! Resources and references: Shadow lobbying, an AI paper and a willing Senator. The story behind the bill that took SLC’s streets away [Building Salt Lake] Utah ranked as the 9th most expensive housing market in the c...
Jul 11, 2025•45 min
It’s been two years since Utah sent Pornhub packing in protest of a law that the U.S. Supreme Court just ok’d! The man to blame? State Sen. Todd Weiler (R-Woods Cross). Host Ali Vallarta asks him if this is the war he planned to wage — and if it’s still worth the fight? This episode first aired on May 9, 2023. Just a note this episode makes mention of sexual violence. U.S. Teen Girls Experiencing Increased Sadness and Violence by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Get more from City...
Jul 10, 2025•21 min
From Venice to Mexico City, much of the world is protesting overtourism. So how can Utah manage tensions between visitors and locals in hotspots like Moab and Park City? Host Ali Vallarta asks Jennifer Leaver, senior tourism analyst at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, about the state of tourism in Utah right now. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at...
Jul 09, 2025•25 min
The Smith’s Ballpark stadium finally has a game plan! Host Ali Vallarta and Building Salt Lake editor Taylor Anderson discuss the design highlights and construction timeline for the 13.5-acres in the middle of SLC. Plus, the University of Utah shuts down a frat, and local shoutouts. Resources and references: Shadow lobbying, an AI paper and a willing Senator. The story behind the bill that took SLC’s streets away [Building Salt Lake] See the design for Ballpark NEXT and submit a comment. Here’s ...
Jul 08, 2025•36 min
Sen. Mike Lee has been getting dragged in the news recently. One, for trying to sell public lands, and two, for his tweets about the assassination of a Minnesota lawmaker. But one Salt Laker has made it her mission to make life hard for Utah's senior senator. Host Ali Vallarta asks Rosie Card what her goal is as Lee's number one troll. Listen for more on Lee's so-far unsuccessful push to sell Utah's public lands. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. Y...
Jul 07, 2025•24 min
All 12 other City Cast podcast hosts (from Austin, Boise, Chicago, DC, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Pittsburgh, and Portland) compete head-to-head in a high-stakes showdown, judged by Ali Vallarta, to answer the question that’s been burning up our company-wide Slack for weeks: which city is the best for a summer weekend trip? From naked bike rides to ‘the country’s best farmers market,’ pickle festivals to Elvis impersonators driving pink convertibles, our hosts are br...
Jul 03, 2025•48 min
We're heading into a holiday weekend, but the news won't let up. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means break down the biggest stories of the week, from Salt Lake City's downtown parking prices to Jordan Clarkson's departure from the Utah Jazz. Resources and references: What Utah Lands Are at Risk Under Mike Lee’s Newest Bill? [City Cast Salt Lake] Salt Lake County fireworks page Salt Lake City parking updates Every Park SLC Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the be...
Jul 02, 2025•41 min
July is a month of Utah holidays, from the 4th to Pie & Beer aka Pioneer Day — but do you know about Summerween? Host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and executive producer Emily Means bring you a guide to what to expect and how to make the most of this month, from cold local treats to the rowdiest parade. If you do plan to hit the races, listen to our deep dive on horse gambling in Utah. Everything you need to know about 801 Day 2025 at the Gallivan Center. If you're new here, w...
Jul 01, 2025•36 min
It's a great time to remind you that we have a Salt Lake County government, because the county council just got a new member! Host Ali Vallarta asks Council Member Jiro Johnson about his approach to Salt Lake's biggest issues: criminal justice, homelessness, and growth. Plus, his thoughts on the relationship between activists and electeds. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only event...
Jun 30, 2025•30 min
A University of Utah student spent 15 days in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in Colorado. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Cassie Bingham deconstruct the story. Plus, the construction nightmare in Sugar House and some picks for your weekend. Resources and references: University of Utah student arrested by ICE says 15 days in detention were ‘hardest of my life’ [Salt Lake Tribune] Bruges' reel about construction in S...
Jun 27, 2025•42 min
Did Sen. Mike Lee solve the nation's partisan divide by sponsoring a bill everyone hates? Kate Groetzinger, City Cast contributor and Center for Western Priorities communications manager, joins host Ali Vallarta to explain why even conservatives dislike Lee's proposal to sell up to 1.2 million acres of public lands in the West. For more on Utah’s public land battles, listen to Does Utah’s Public Lands Story Hold Up? Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor...
Jun 26, 2025•24 min
Now that it's officially summer, you might be wondering how to swing a weekend getaway. So say hello to your unofficial travel agent: Host Ali Vallarta joins executive producer Emily Means to recommend hops to some of our favorite locations less than a three-hour flight away — plus, what to do when you touch down. Want to hit up the Oregon Coast for a quick trip? Check out this guide from City Cast Portland. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll...
Jun 25, 2025•24 min
The man arrested after the "No Kings" protest shooting in Salt Lake City has been released from jail. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means discuss that and other updates from the recent public shootings in SLC and West Valley. Plus, the best-run city in the country is in Utah, and local shoutouts. Resources and references: Suspect in West Valley City shooting facing 4 aggravated murder charges [FOX 13] Man arrested in connection with shooting during ‘No Kings’ protest released fr...
Jun 24, 2025•37 min
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, has an office for Utah, Idaho, Montana, and Nevada right here in West Valley. So what should you do if you or your neighbor is stopped by them? Host Ali Vallarta asks Aaron Welcher with the ACLU of Utah what your rights are when it comes to ICE and how their power differs from local police. Visit ACLU of Utah’s resource hub for more information about your rights and guidance for institutions. This episode first aired Feb. 3, 2025. Get more from City C...
Jun 23, 2025•30 min
City Cast hosts are on the pulse of what’s happening in our communities. So Ali Vallarta and all 12 other hosts sat down with City Cast CEO David Plotz to talk about creative local problem solving that might work in your hometown too and to commiserate about stressors affecting most of our cities, from unaffordable housing to bike lanes. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 20th episode: Utah Arts Festival Stein Eriksen Lodge Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Workshopslc.co...
Jun 20, 2025•1 hr 2 min
It's been a tough week in Salt Lake County, with two shootings at public events resulting in the deaths of four community members. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means sort through the details of both incidents and the questions that remain. Plus, ways to celebrate Juneteenth. Resources and references: In the Wake of Local Shootings, Here’s How To Help [Hey Salt Lake] Submit evidence from the “No Kings” protest to SLC Police Department Ways To Celebrate Juneteenth in Salt Lake [H...
Jun 18, 2025•39 min
Protesters gathered on Saturday in Salt Lake City to chant, “No ICE, no fear, immigrants are welcome here.” What can local leaders do to answer that call? Host Ali Vallarta asks Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini how he's thinking about his role in protecting his community from harmful policies. For more discussions about ICE & Mayor Silvestrini: What ICE Can and Can’t Do (Legally) in Utah [City Cast Salt Lake] Millcreek Deportation Orders, Another Teacher Union Win, TIME100 Influential Utahn ...
Jun 17, 2025•28 min
A shooting at the "No Kings" protest on Saturday in downtown Salt Lake City left one person dead. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means assemble the facts and most pressing questions around this horrific end to an otherwise peaceful day. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to Hey Salt Lake, our daily mor...
Jun 16, 2025•16 min
Salt Lake City has a new county council member. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and Salt Lake Tribune reporter Andy Larsen connect the dots between your local electeds and controversial federal policies. Plus, Bees baseball struggles in the ‘burbs, $1 book deals, and soapbox racing. Resources and references: With eye on LA protests, Gov. Cox warns Utah will be ‘overprepared,’ won’t tolerate violence [Utah News Dispatch] The Salt Lake Bees’ attendance is lagging at their new ba...
Jun 13, 2025•40 min
It’s summer festival season, and there's a lot to choose from! TikTok’s Queen of SLC Kendall Rodriguez and host Ali Vallarta winnow it down to four events you shouldn’t miss, from strawberries to extreme sports. Plus, tips and tricks to save money and make the most of festival going. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe...
Jun 12, 2025•25 min
In two years, Utah's largest school district won't even exist. Host Ali Vallarta asks Dr. Rich Stowell, Alpine School District communications director, why things imploded and the lessons for Salt Lake City as we face similar challenges. For more on the Glendale high school debate. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe t...
Jun 11, 2025•24 min
From chains to Father’s Day ideas, it’s our food news roundup! Hey Salt Lake newsletter editor Terina Ria and host Ali Vallarta deconstruct Salt Lake’s obsession with fast food chains, make recommendations for dad’s weekend, and reveal a new foodie paradise. For more hidden gems, check out our collab with Salt Lake Sideways. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at me...
Jun 10, 2025•39 min
What policies should be in place to get Salt Lake City to 100% on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index? Salt Lake City Council Chair Chris Wharton joins host Ali Vallarta to talk about where there is room for improvement. Interested in learning more? Find out how queer Salt Lake really is. Get more from City Cast Salt Lake when you become a City Cast Salt Lake Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events, and more. Join now at membership...
Jun 09, 2025•27 min
The U.S. Supreme Court just ruled on a Utah project — to mixed reviews. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Chandler Rosenberg share knee-jerk reactions and discuss the potential impacts of the ruling. Plus, what to do when elected officials disappoint you, dangerously cute kittens, and sailing on the Great Salt Lake. Resources and references: Uinta Basin Railway gets green light as Supreme Court narrows scope of environmental law [FOX 13] Utah’...
Jun 06, 2025•35 min
