The Week in Philly from KYW Newsradio - podcast cover

The Week in Philly from KYW Newsradio

Host Matt Leon and KYW Newsradio reporters recap the biggest news in Philadelphia each week. Catch up on what you missed and dig deeper into the top stories.
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Episodes

Bracing for SEPTA cuts and back to school, and a challenger to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s re-election

Those dreaded SEPTA cuts begin on Sunday, with still no state budget agreement in sight. We’ll tell you what to prepare for. And school starts in Philadelphia on Monday. KYW Newsradio’s Mike DeNardo tells us how the district is getting ready amidst the SEPTA cuts and a potential teacher strike, plus he previews his new weekly conversation with Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington. We also hear about Stacy Garrity’s bid for the Republican nomination for Pennsylvania Governor, changes to your PGW en...

Aug 23, 202537 min

SEPTA standoff reaches tipping point, Philly teachers float strike possibility, and the local impact of “KPop Demon Hunters”

Another key SEPTA deadline passed, and now, according to the region's mass transit operator, due to a budget stalemate in the state legislature, there’s no turning back from dramatic funding cuts. Will reduced service and increased fares go through as planned? We also learn more about the state of contract negotiations between the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers and School District of Philadelphia, and whether a strike could be on the table. Plus, hear about the inspiring ripple effects the ...

Aug 16, 202537 min

Looming SEPTA cuts, grocery prices causing stress, and a community rallies around a man detained by ICE

SEPTA’s budget crisis has reached a tipping point. The transit agency says if the state Legislature does not agree on a budget that provides more funding by August 14, they will have to make significant cuts on August 24. KYW Newsradio’s Mike DeNardo tells us what’s on the chopping block. The U.S. Department of Justice released a list of “Sanctuary” jurisdictions that it intends to sue if they don’t change their immigration policies - and Philly is on it. City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb digs int...

Aug 09, 202537 min

Wild Mütter Museum discovery, Phillies make some big moves, and Delco’s crackdown on e-scooters

What do you do when you find two infant skulls in a box? Such was the situation confronting the Mütter Museum, best known for its collection of human remains. Hear how the museum's next steps led to a months-long journey that linked a true crime story to serious morality questions. We also check in on the Phillies’ activity at the trade deadline, and discuss whether the additions of closer Jhoan Duran and Harrison Bader will make a difference in the season's stretch run. And, if you’re an e-scoo...

Aug 02, 202537 min

CHOP doctor and police officer deaths get closure, inside Eagles training camp, and planning America’s 250th birthday

The city, state, and country are busy planning for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, but is Philadelphia really prepared for the crowds it will bring? KYW’s City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb tells us what plans were unveiled this week. We have updates on several trials that captured the region’s attention. The Eagles get serious at training camp, meanwhile the Savannah Bananas bring the fun and spectacle to baseball in Philly this weekend. Catch up on the week’s headlines with Matt Leon and KYW...

Jul 26, 202537 min

Philly Superman, PA taking a lead in AI, and more severe storms

Republican Senator Dave McCormick announced $90 billion in investments to put Pennsylvania at the forefront of AI at his Energy and Innovation Summit at Carnegie Mellon University. Meanwhile in Philadelphia, city workers in the DC 33 union went back to work after eight days on strike, and both they and the DC 47 union are voting on tentative agreements. Plus, one of Philly’s own is the biggest star on the silver screen right now: David Corenswet is putting his nice-guy stamp on “Superman”. Brian...

Jul 19, 202536 min

City worker strike ends, a violent 4th of July weekend, and driverless cars tested in Philly

After eight days of trash piling up, the DC33 strike ended on Wednesday. KYW’s City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb tells us what’s in the final agreement between the city and its blue collar workers and how this reflects on Mayor Parker. We also hear about multiple mass shootings this past weekend, despite an overall decrease in gun violence; a gruesome trial in Bucks County; a ride-hailing company using driverless cars; and a fungal discovery by Penn researchers that connects ancient Egypt to fight...

Jul 12, 202530 min

Live Aid at 40: How Philly made rock and roll history

Forty years later, Live Aid remains arguably the most iconic concert event of all time. Two cities, more than 70 acts, all joining forces to make 24 straight hours of live music that helped raise millions of dollars for a charitable cause. Live Aid, staged July 13th, 1985 in London and Philadelphia, certainly left a mark. How did rundown JFK Stadium in South Philly wind up hosting such a high-profile show? If it hadn't been for the efforts and influence of renowned promoter and Philly native Lar...

Jul 11, 202534 min

City workers on strike, Philly gets a WNBA team, and the Philly Pops get their name back

Philadelphia’s blue collar workers went on strike this week, affecting services like trash pickup. KYW’s City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb breaks down what’s at stake. Philly is finally getting a WNBA team. We talk with a women’s sports expert about what that means for the city and for the sport. Plus, after Miles Pfeffer was found guilty of murdering Temple police Sgt. Christopher Fitzgerald, KYW’s Crime and Justice Reporter Kristen Johanson tells us how widows of other fallen officers showed up ...

Jul 05, 202537 min

The emotional scene after Miles Pfeffer verdict, fresh THC hearings in state legislature, and reaction to 76ers picking VJ Edgecombe

The execution-style murder of Temple University Sgt. Christopher Fitzgerald in February 2023 stunned Philadelphia. Not only was his killer brought to justice, it was served swiftly. Hear what Fitzgerald’s family had to say about the Miles Pfeffer verdict moments after it came down. Plus, triple-digit temperatures weren’t the only inconvenience posed by this past week’s blistering heatwave. Thousands of homes in the region remained without power following a massive storm the week before. Check ou...

Jun 28, 202537 min

Looking back on 60 years of news at KYW Newsradio

2025 is KYW Newsradio’s 60th anniversary! That’s a lot of news, but we asked our reporters to pick some of the best stories to revisit - impactful events, citywide celebrations, and some moments of simple, great entertainment. Join our reporting team and host Matt Leon for a look back through time. 00:00 Intro 02:08 The plane crash that killed PA Senator John Heinz (1991) 08:24 A duck boat tragedy (2010) 13:15 What was left behind after Constitution Day celebrations (1987) 18:05 The Eagles’ firs...

Jun 21, 202537 min

How ICE raids are causing regional ripple effects, breaking down NJ primary results, Amazon bets big on PA

The ripple effects of the United States’ Immigration and Customs Enforcement policy under the Trump administration are being increasingly felt across the country, including Philadelphia. We examine how people are responding and local immigrant communities are feeling. We also recap a high-profile round of primary election results in New Jersey, tell you why Amazon decided to plant a multi-billion dollar flag in Bucks County, go behind the scenes of Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie’s massive contributi...

Jun 14, 202537 min

The contenders for NJ’s next governor, cracking down on AI, and Penn ends gender-affirming surgeries for youth

New Jersey’s primary election is on Tuesday, and the Democratic side of the governor race is packed. KYW’s South Jersey Reporter Mike Dougherty looks at the candidates on both sides. Philadelphia City Council and Mayor Cherelle Parker agreed on a $6.8 billion budget. City Hall Bureau Chief Pat Loeb tells us what was approved. Plus, we have updates on a SEPTA line closing, Penn Medicine ending gender-affirming surgeries for people under 19, a bill targeting AI deepfakes, and local students gainin...

Jun 07, 202537 min

Mass shooting on Memorial Day, a ban on phone use while driving, and a Pride month preview

The week started out with a grim Memorial Day when shooters opened fire in the Lemon Hill section of Fairmount Park, killing two people and injuring nine more. KYW’s Tim Jimenez explains what we’ve learned about the victims and how the city is responding. Reporter Mike DeNardo - the biggest Phillies fan we know - gives his take on the season so far. And “Abbott Elementary” creator Quinta Brunson paid her hometown a visit to reveal a mural and receive a key to the city. We’ll hear all that and mo...

May 31, 202537 min

Why Larry Krasner won, the Mark Dial verdict, and how the “Tush Push” prevailed

District Attorney Larry Krasner has his fair share of vocal detractors, but his performance at the polls speaks for itself. After a convincing win over challenger Pat Dugan in the Democratic primary, Krasner is all but assured a third term. KYW Newsradio’s Pat Loeb explains his appeal to voters and keys to victory. Plus, get analysis of the Mark Dial verdict in the trial of Eddie Irizarry’s killing, and hear what riders who depend on SEPTA had to say about the potential impact of its impending d...

May 24, 202536 min

The DA primary race, a push to legalize cannabis, and the Michelin Guide finally comes to Philly

Pennsylvania’s primary election is this coming Tuesday, and while it’s an off year, this primary will likely determine Philadelphia’s next District Attorney. We talk about the Democratic candidates, incumbent Larry Krasner and Judge Pat Dugan. Plus, a debate over whether or not to narrow Castor Avenue in Oxford Circle, a new study shows the impacts of gentrification, PA lawmakers discuss legalizing recreational marijuana, and we catch up on the latest sports news from the Eagles, 76ers, and Flye...

May 17, 202537 min

City celebrates Pope Leo's local ties, marks anniversaries of MOVE bombing and Amtrak 188 derailment

Before he was elected Pope Leo XIV, he was…treating fellow members of the Villanova community to pizza and beer?!?! Yes, after graduating from the Main Line university in 1977, Bob Prevost maintained connections to campus. Hear how the school reacted to the stunning news of “Father Bob’s” new gig. Also, with the anniversaries of two Philadelphia tragedies just days away, the KYW Newsradio newsroom looks back at the 1985 MOVE Bombing and 2015 Amtrak train derailment, while examining how the two e...

May 10, 202534 min

Bernie Sanders in Philly, choosing the next pope, and our own Mike DeNardo takes the field at the Phillies game

Senator Bernie Sanders came to Philadelphia City Hall this week to speak out against the current administration in a rally that drew a crowd of thousands. Plus, people are enraptured by “Conclave” playing out in real life - a Villanova expert joins us to look ahead at the gathering to choose a new pope. And Philadelphia City Council debates the merits of mobile services that provide medical help and other resources to Kensington. Matt Leon and KYW Newsradio’s team break down all of this and more...

May 03, 202537 min

Remembering Pope Francis’ visit to Philadelphia, Crozer leaves Delco a hospital desert, and details for Parker’s housing plan

It was a historic visit, just the second ever to Philadelphia by the pontiff, and in the days since Pope Francis’ passing, memories of his time here in September 2015 are being cherished that much more fondly. A pair of KYW Newsradio alumni who covered the event look back and ahead as the Vatican prepares to choose Francis’ successor. Plus, as Delaware County braces for the imminent closure of two hospitals, residents race to find new medical facilities and resources to serve them. Matt Leon and...

Apr 26, 202536 min

Fallout from Shapiro arson fire, a big boon for Parker’s housing plan, and an explainer on school district “rubber rooms”

While the details and circumstances surrounding the arson attack on Governor Josh Shapiro and his family at the governor’s mansion in Harrisburg continue to get sorted out, the incident itself remains jarring and alarming. Through the eyes of a reporter who covered the scene on the ground, we take a look at what we know and don’t know about the crime. Plus, Mayor Parker’s ambitious affordable housing push gets a major boost, and we put one of the most disappointing Philadelphia sports seasons in...

Apr 19, 202536 min

SEPTA’s doomsday budget, a baseball landmark set for demolition, and things to do this 4th of July in the city

SEPTA is planning for the worst: severe cuts and fare increases if it doesn’t get the $168 million increase included in Governor Shapiro’s budget proposal. City Council checked in on the police department’s drone program, Kensington Wellness Court, and more in this week’s budget hearings. And concerns about ICE caused one of the city’s biggest celebrations of Mexican culture to be cancelled. Brian Seltzer and Sabrina Boyd-Surka step in for Matt Leon, catching up with KYW Newsradio’s reporters on...

Apr 12, 202536 min

Tariffs, history-making tortoises, and resources for laid-off federal workers

President Trump’s tariff rollout sent shockwaves through the global economy, with the automobile industry emerging as one of the faces of the upheaval. How are local dealerships and prospective buyers bracing for the ripple effects? And over at the Philadelphia Zoo, more history was made. You’ve got to hear the story of the remarkable hatching of four critically endangered Western Galapagos tortoises to their century-old parents. Also, find out how the Free Library of Philadelphia is stepping up...

Apr 05, 202537 min

Budget hearings, Opening Day Phillies optimism, and the dedication of West Philly’s “Will Smith Way”

The Parker administration pitched its budget. Now, it’s up to Philadelphia City Council to parse through it. What do they think of the mayor’s plan? Plus, from West Philadelphia to Hollywood and back, Will Smith comes home for a prestigious honor while he continues to reemerge from a controversial incident that stained his once-golden reputation. And how about the Phillies? On the heels of a humbling, early exit from the playoffs, do they have what it takes to make another World Series run? Matt...

Mar 29, 202536 min

Brandon Graham retires, a traffic mess ahead on Market Street, and a threat to the water supply in Bucks County

As repair on a fuel pipeline leak begins in Bucks County, residents are concerned for their health and the environment. Construction on the Market Street bridge over the Schuylkill River will mean major traffic headaches in 2026. And we say farewell to the longest tenured Eagles player, Brandon Graham, who just announced his retirement. Matt Leon and KYW Newsradio’s reporters recap that and more of the biggest news in the Philadelphia region this week. 00:00 Intro 02:07 Recovery efforts after a ...

Mar 22, 202537 min

Parker’s housing-friendly budget, detained South Jersey business owner reunites with family, and beef thieves foiled in South Philly

Housing, housing, housing. If there’s anything Mayor Charelle Parker wants you to know about her $6.7 billion budget proposal, it’s that the main goal is to deliver on her campaign promise of expanding Philadelphia’s affordable housing options. But is City Council onboard with all the implications? Plus, find out when and why New Jersey residents can expect a massive spike in their utility bills, and hear from new U.S. Senator Dave McCormick, who reflects on his first three months on the job. We...

Mar 15, 202536 min

Philly rallies for Ukraine, local tariff talk, and the efforts to preserve two iconic landmarks

Philadelphia is home to one of the largest Ukrainian populations in the United States. How did the community respond and rally in the aftermath of the explosive White House exchange between President Trump, Vice President Vance, and President Zelenskyy? We also get an expert’s take on the potential local ramifications of Trump’s tariff policies. Plus, three years after sponsoring a bill designed to curb a disproportionate number of Black traffic stops, a Councilmember weighs in on the law’s succ...

Mar 08, 202536 min

Philly fed workers, officials fight back vs. Trump, the latest on Kensington’s clean-up, and the cancellation of the Children’s World Fair

In the early days of President Trump’s second term, the Philadelphia region is feeling the effects of his aggressive policy push. Broad-stroked attempts to slash the federal workforce, freeze state funding, and eliminate DEI initiatives have all carried local consequences. What are they, and how are affected populations and communities fighting back? KYW Newsradio’s Matt Leon examines these stories and other big headlines making news this week, like the cancellation of the anticipated Children’s...

Mar 01, 202536 min

SPS Technologies factory fire fallout, the Trump trickledown effect in Philly, and hamming on the 2025 Roots Picnic

A four-alarm fire set a historic, century-old manufacturing factory in Montgomery County ablaze, with flames burning for multiple days. How did firefighters and first responders get the incident under control? What threat does it pose to residents? KYW Newsradio’s Matt Leon dives into this story and other big headlines making news in the Philadelphia region this week, like the local trickledown effect of President Trump’s executive orders, DA Larry Krasner’s bid for a third term, and the 2025 Ro...

Feb 22, 202537 min

GO BIRDS!!! The Eagles are Super Bowl champs again, SEPTA honors Black History Month, and “Queer Eye” visits Philly

Since the Eagles ended the Kansas City Chiefs’ streak and became the 2025 Super Bowl Champions, the city has been celebrating all week - from pole climbing on Sunday night to the parade on Friday. We recap the big game and hear from fans. Plus, for Black History Month: some history and a spotlight on people making an impact today in Philadelphia’s communities of color. Tan France from “Queer Eye” talks about their “Fab Five Live” tour. And the Philadelphia Flower Show offers special perks for vo...

Feb 15, 202536 min

The aftermath of a deadly plane crash, Black History Month, and getting ready for the big game

Last weekend, a medical transport jet crashed in Northeast Philadelphia near Roosevelt Mall, killing seven people and injuring 24. We share what we know about the crash, and how the city is helping the neighborhood recover. Plus, Governor Shapiro lays out his 2025 goals in his annual budget address, Philly celebrates Black History Month, and we get amped up for the Eagles to take on the Chiefs in the Super Bowl. 00:00 Intro 02:06 The latest on the Northeast Philadelphia plane crash 07:07 City he...

Feb 08, 202537 min
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