City Cast Salt Lake

When news broke that hundreds of Salt Lake City Public Library were being incentivized to leave their jobs, questions quickly followed. Are layoffs coming? Is the library OK? Executive producer Emily Means talks with SLC Public Library CEO Noah Baskett about the decision and what it means for the library’s future.   Listen to our episode where we first discussed the SLC public library staff buyouts. [City Cast Salt Lake]  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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Arts Festival Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden

Public outcry over the Box Elder County data center seems to be working. Executive producer Emily Means, social media manager Molly Miloscia, and Stewardship Utah co-director David Garbett break down state leaders' latest response and updates. Plus, ex-Mormons are getting more Republican and local shoutouts.   Resources and references: Check out our City Cast Salt Lake voter guide for the CD1 Democratic primary.  ‘Rejected’: Voters won’t get a say on Box Elder data center, county attorney says [Salt Lake Tribune] Cox orders ‘higher bar’ for data centers, says public input ‘absolutely matters’ [Utah News Dispatch] Ex-Mormons have gotten more Republican over the last decade [KUER] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Arts Festival Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

June is here, and it's summertime in Salt Lake City. Executive producer Emily Means, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Jack Stauss bring you a guide on how to make the most of this gorgeous month, from the downtown farmers market to the best spot for cheap, cold beer, to some feel-good volunteer opportunities. For more patio inspo, listen to this episode. For even more tips on how to make the most of June in Salt Lake, check out our daily morning newsletter. City Cast Salt Lake is made possible by our awesome sponsor, the Utah Arts Festival. We’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Salt Lake. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Interested in advertising with City Cast? Check out our options. Reach us at [email protected] Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Utah Arts Festival Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden

Where would Salt Lake City be without its libraries? Chicago is opening its 82nd public library branch in June, and loaning out books is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what these institutions offer residents. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran about how Chicago’s libraries have evolved to meet community needs, from opening a food pantry inside a branch to turning student IDs into automatic library cards — and how they could be even better. Plus, are the Chicago Bears still the Chicago Bears if they move to Indiana? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

How does Trump want to spend $1 billion to save the Great Salt Lake? Executive producer Emily Means and City Cast Salt Lake contributors Chandler Rosenberg and Kate Groetzinger break down what "saving" the lake actually looks like. Plus, takeaways from the Congressional District 1 debate, picks of the week, and in our members-only segment: Do three Utah communities hold the secret to long life? Resources and references: Here is what’s in Donald Trump’s $1B plan to save the Great Salt Lake [Salt Lake Tribune] Nate Blouin vows to exit Utah’s CD1 primary if progressive rivals poll higher [KUER] Democratic candidates spar in 1st Congressional District primary debate [FOX 13] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Canyon View Credit Union

How can we beat the loneliness epidemic? Try embracing the awkwardness and actually saying "hi" to your neighbor. Dr. Maria Blevins of Utah Valley University gives executive producer Emily Means tips on being a better neighbor. This episode first aired on May 15, 2025. Having a conflict with your neighbor? Learn how to disagree better. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads.

Gov. Spencer Cox declared Utah is in a drought emergency. Executive producer Emily Means, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Andy Larsen talk about what's working and what's not to save water. Plus, the Salt Lake City Public Library offered buyout deals to its staff to preempt layoffs, and we share local shoutouts. Resources and references: Utah Gov. Cox issues emergency order as drought covers the entire state [Deseret News] Can low-flow toilets and smart sprinklers solve Utah’s drought? Here’s the problem with the state’s recommendations. [Salt Lake Tribune] SLC library system offers buyouts to its staff citywide [Salt Lake Tribune] Welcome to the world, baby moose! [Instagram] Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we're around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. If you enjoyed our interview with Eric Haymond of Taskrabbit, learn more here.

The Utah Legislature has been flexing some muscle over the judicial branch. Executive producer Emily Means talks to Teneille Brown, founding member of Co-Equal Utah, about the biggest threat to the courts' independence and how it impacts you. Listen to our conversation with Republican Sen. Todd Weiler about his perspective on the courts. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Canyon View Credit Union Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 30% off Water Lantern Festival

What could the Box Elder County data center look like? Executive producer Emily Means and City Cast Salt Lake contributors Jack Stauss and Cassie Bingham talk about new renderings and what's next in the process. Plus, Salt Lake County's district attorney charged a police officer in a shooting for the first time in more than 10 years, picks for your weekend, and in our members-only segment: why Tan France is leaving Salt Lake City and selling his $7.5 million home. Resources and references: ⁠Renderings show vision for massive data center proposed in Utah, but permits could take years⁠ [Utah News Dispatch] ⁠Utahns will have more chances to weigh in on Kevin O’Leary’s data center project. Here’s how.⁠ [Salt Lake Tribune] ⁠Salt Lake County D.A. Sim Gill has charged a police officer in a fatal shooting for the first time in more than a decade⁠ [Salt Lake Tribune] 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 ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠. Subscribe to our ⁠daily morning newsletter⁠. You can also find us on Instagram ⁠@CityCastSLC⁠. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪⁠(801) 203-0137‬⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for ⁠podcast and newsletter ads⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠TaskRabbit⁠ ⁠The Shop⁠ ⁠Salt Lake Sewciety⁠

City Cast Twin Cities host Sean McPherson hosts this showdown where 12 City Cast reps, including City Cast Salt Lake host Ali Vallarta, compete head-to-head and debate which city is the best for a weekend trip this summer. From hot tub boats (exactly what they sound like) to epic outdoor summer festivals, our hosts are bringing the best of what their city has to offer this season. Can Ali beat out her competitors from Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Pittsburgh, Portland, Seattle, and the Twin Cities? 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 our ⁠⁠daily morning newsletter⁠⁠. You can also find us on Instagram ⁠⁠@CityCastSLC⁠⁠. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ⁠⁠‪(801) 203-0137‬⁠⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for ⁠⁠podcast and newsletter ads⁠⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠⁠TaskRabbit⁠⁠ ⁠⁠The Shop⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Salt Lake Sewciety⁠⁠

From MomTok to Ballerina Farm, LDS moms over-represent on the internet. Executive producer Emily Means asks Fortesa Latifi, journalist and author of ⁠"Like, Follow, Subscribe: Influencer Kids and the Cost of a Childhood Online,"⁠ why the religion produces such successful influencers and the appeal and consequences of putting your family life online. 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 our ⁠daily morning newsletter⁠. You can also find us on Instagram ⁠@CityCastSLC⁠. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ⁠‪(801) 203-0137‬⁠ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for ⁠podcast and newsletter ads⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠TaskRabbit⁠ ⁠The Shop⁠ ⁠Salt Lake Sewciety⁠

The conversation around the Box Elder County data center is having ripple effects throughout Utah. Executive producer Emily Means and social media manager Molly Miloscia break down the latest headlines. Plus, crafting an ideal day in Salt Lake and local shoutouts. Resources and references: ‘They asked us to come,’ Kevin O’Leary tells Tucker Carlson of massive Utah data center plan [Salt Lake Tribune] ‘I do not want this in my community’: Southern Utahns confront proposed data center [Salt Lake Tribune] Utah House speaker says Box Elder hyperscale project is bad ‘personally, and for my ranch’ [Salt Lake Tribune] Apply for Salt Lake City's Love Your Block program. 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. If you enjoyed our interview with Laura Allred Hurtado, executive director of the Utah Museum of Contemporary Arts, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: TaskRabbit The Shop Salt Lake Sewciety Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 30% off

By 2060, Utahns older than 65 are estimated to be 23% of the state's population. Are our cities ready for that? Host Ali Vallarta asks Utah Foundation ⁠research analyst Ashley Marshall-Cantor⁠ about the gaps and bright spots in local aging plans. ⁠Anxious About Aging? Retire on a College Campus.⁠ [City Cast Salt Lake] 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 our ⁠daily morning newsletter⁠. You can also find us on Instagram ⁠@CityCastSLC⁠. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪⁠(801) 203-0137⁠‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for ⁠podcast and newsletter ads⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: ⁠TaskRabbit⁠ ⁠The Shop⁠ ⁠Salt Lake Sewciety

Would Salt Lake City be safer if there were more automated traffic cameras? In 2025, Washington, DC, brought in nearly $270 million from more than 500 automated traffic enforcement cameras — including a single camera that issued $9 million in tickets. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host Bridget Todd about how these cameras work, the congressional scrutiny they've been getting, and whether they make DC safer. Plus, is DC becoming the new rave capital?  Mentioned on the show: "The deadliest road in America" (Vox) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Salt Lake City Council Member Eva Lopez Chavez got booted from her seat, after it was determined she didn’t live in her district. Executive producer Emily Means, former Salt Lake City Council Member Darin Mano, and Salt Lake Tribune reporter Robert Gehrke talk about what happens next. Plus, updates on the mega data center, picks for your weekend, and in our members-only segment: Billboard icon Julia Reagan is back. Resources and references: Embattled SLC Council member Eva Lopez Chavez forced from seat [Salt Lake Tribune] ‘There needed to be a fight here’: How Box Elder County residents plan to stop a massive data center [Salt Lake Tribune] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Woodward PC Canyon View Credit Union Utah Museum of Contemporary Arts Project Rainbow Salt Lake City Arts Council

According to the Trib, there are more than 170 concerts to look forward to this summer at major venues in the Wasatch. Host Ali Vallarta asked avid concert goer Reuben Hoyos how to be Salt Lake’s best concert goer, no matter your age or earplug collection. This episode first aired on March 17, 2025. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Woodward PC Canyon View Credit Union Utah Museum of Contemporary Arts Project Rainbow Salt Lake City Arts Council Utah Forever

Northern Utah has begun sending up to 1 million acre feet of water to help fill Lake Powell on the Arizona border. How should Salt Lakers feel about this? Host Ali Vallarta asks Salt Lake Tribune reporter Brooke Larsen for the scoop as Utah tries to negotiate water with six other states and Mexico. Listen to Why 'Drain Lake Powell' Is Catching On, our interview with Zak Podmore about forcing dead pool. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Woodward PC Canyon View Credit Union Utah Museum of Contemporary Art Project Rainbow Salt Lake Arts Council

Utah Supreme Court Justice Diana Hagen has resigned, after legislative leaders pushed to investigate her. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and producer Ivana Martinez talk about the response and impact. Plus, some good news for your Tuesday and local shoutouts. Resources and references: Utah Supreme Court Justice Diana Hagen resigns from bench after questions on relationships [FOX 13] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Woodward PC Canyon View Credit Union Utah Museum of Fine Arts Project Rainbow Salt Lake City Arts Council Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off Utah Forever

What’s in SLC Mayor Erin Mendenhall’s proposed $498.8 million budget? Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means break down the new programs (and tax increases) to expect in our city and how you can weigh in on them. Read the city's proposed budget and find ways to participate. Listen to our episode on participatory budgeting. 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Woodward PC Canyon View Credit Union Utah Museum of Fine Arts Project Rainbow Salt Lake City Arts Council

Salt Lakers, would your city be better if the bars stayed open later? This summer, Philadelphia is anticipating a record-breaking number of tourists coming to town for World Cup games and semiquincentennial events, so the city is allowing its bars to stay open until 4 a.m. during most of June and July. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Philly podcast host Trenae Nuri about the city’s nightlife, and the pros and cons of this extended hours experiment. Plus, how to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary without feeling like you’re serving a Trump narrative. Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Utah is officially planning to build a massive data center, despite fierce community pushback. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Jack Stauss break down everything you need to know. Plus, Mother's Day park ideas, picks of the week, and a members-only bonus segment: how to hack a local house giveaway. Resources and references: At contentious meeting, Box Elder County OKs massive data center project backed by a celebrity investor [Salt Lake Tribune]  Stuart Adams' PAC raked in $135,000 from MIDA-connected donors days after approving controversial data center [Utah Political Watch]  Find your perfect park using the City Cast Salt Lake parks map.  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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden Salt Lake City Arts Council Harmons Tracy Aviary

The city has been working on a new vision for Liberty Park, and last night they finally shared it with the world. Host Ali Vallarta and producer Ivana Martinez talk through the highlights of the plan and their hopes and dreams for Salt Lake's oldest park. Find your perfect park using the City Cast Salt Lake parks map. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden Salt Lake City Arts Council Harmons Tracy Aviary

Fifteen mature trees were recently cut down at Trolley Square, but there’s more to the story. Host Ali Vallarta talks with Trolley Square owner Taymour Semnani and Salt Lake City Urban Forester Tony Gliot about the decision and if more trees are in danger of being lost. Find your perfect park using the City Cast Salt Lake parks map. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden Salt Lake City Arts Council Harmons Tracy Aviary Rocky Mountain Power

The King's English took heat over the weekend for promoting Gov. Spencer Cox's new book. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and newsletter editor Terina Ria discuss the backlash. Plus, finding our perfect park and local shoutouts. Resources and references: Utah bookstore cancels Gov. Cox promo after community backlash [Salt Lake Tribune] Find your perfect park using the City Cast Salt Lake parks map. 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. If you enjoyed this interview with Laura Allred Hurtado, the executive director of the Utah Museum of Contemporary Arts, learn more here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden Salt Lake City Arts Council Harmons Tracy Aviary Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

For two years, host Ali Vallarta has been visiting every park in Salt Lake County — around 500 of them. Now, she's officially done and has a totally unique resource to share. Ali chats with social media manager Molly Miloscia about her journey, the cool things she found, and how our parks could be even better. Check out our Salt Lake parks map!  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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Red Butte Garden Salt Lake City Arts Council Harmons Tracy Aviary

A massive data center is moving forward at lightning speed in northern Utah. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Andy Larsen discuss the forces behind it. Plus, the beloved 400 South Chili's is closing, picks for your weekend, and a members-only bonus segment: What should go in SLC's time capsule? Resources and references: Amid questions and concerns, Box Elder County leaders delay action on data center proposal [KSL] Submit questions about the Stratos data center to the Box Elder County Commission The Wasatch Front's Data Center Boom [City Cast Salt Lake] Restaurant where ‘Queer Eye’ star Tan France famously decided to move to Utah is closing [Salt Lake Tribune]  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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Red Butte Garden

May in Salt Lake — is it spring? Is it summer? Why not both! Host Ali Vallarta, producer Ivana Martinez, and newsletter editor Terina Ria bring you a guide to making the most of this month, from sheepdog racing to dinner parties. Plus, listen to this episode for even more coffee recs. For even more tips on how to make the most of May in Salt Lake, check out our daily newsletter.  City Cast Salt Lake is made possible by our awesome sponsor, Red Butte Garden. We’re also powered by our members, who enjoy an ad-free version of the show. Find out more about how to become a member of City Cast Salt Lake. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Interested in advertising with City Cast? Check out our options. Reach us at [email protected].

Utahns love to get outside, but when you gotta go … you gotta go. Host Ali Vallarta asks Angelique Fish, cofounder of the Women's Wine Hiking Society, how to poop outdoors tactfully and keep our trails clean all summer long. This episode first aired on Dec. 12, 2025.  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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Red Butte Garden

A bunch of candidates will be on your ballot for the Congressional District One Democratic primary. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and newsletter editor Terina Ria break down the results from this weekend's nominating conventions. Plus, a new clean energy program in SLC and shout outs.   Resources and references:  Liban Mohamed is the Utah Democratic convention pick in the new 1st district [KUER] Coming soon to your monthly power bill in SLC: a $4 clean energy fee [Salt Lake Tribune] The Wasatch Front's Data Center Boom [City Cast Salt Lake]  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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Red Butte Garden Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off Canyon View Credit Union

What do you actually know about composting? Host Ali Vallarta talks with Momentum Recycling’s marketing specialist Hyrum Wendel about what Salt Lakers get wrong, and how to get started without the stink. Resources and references: How To Compost in Salt Lake City [City Cast Salt Lake] 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: ‪(801) 203-0137‬ Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. If you enjoyed this interview with Eric Haymond, the SVP of Business Development for Taskrabbit, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Red Butte Garden

Are DIY urban projects the key to improving the infrastructure in cities like Salt Lake? The grassroots group To Nashville, With Love has built and installed 60 benches at bus stops around Nashville, all without government approval. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Nashville podcast host Marie Cecile Anderson about what this guerrilla campaign is doing, why it’s gotten pushback from the city, and where Nashville’s Tactical Urbanism program fits into all this. Plus, the unique challenges of Nashville tourism.  Mentioned on the show: "Who Put Benches at Nashville Bus Stops — and Why Did the City Remove Them?" (City Cast Nashville) "Guerrilla Public Service Redux" (99% Invisible) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Multiple women have accused Salt Lake City Council member and congressional candidate Eva Lopez Chavez of unwanted "sexual" advances. Executive producer Emily Means, Salt Lake Tribune reporter Robert Gehrke, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Cassie Bingham break down the story and its impacts. Plus, the book everyone is talking about takes inspo from Utah, and a members-only segment about ways to save money this weekend.  Resources and references: Four people accuse Eva Lopez Chavez, a SLC Council member, of unwanted ‘sexual’ advances [Salt Lake Tribune] Sen. Blouin’s Offensive Posts, Homeless Camping Update, Trad Wife Fiction [City Cast Salt Lake] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  TaskRabbit Ritual Hot Yoga Salt Lake Sewciety

The number one question we get asked is how to make friends in Utah. Your wish is our command! Host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and social media manager Molly Miloscia brainstorm some ways to meet new people in Salt Lake, whether you're a DINK, a SINK, or … a DILDO? Here are even more ideas for making friends in Salt Lake City. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  TaskRabbit Ritual Hot Yoga Salt Lake Sewciety

Salt Lake, we need to talk about naughty dogs. Professional canine coach Mo Lynch Vashel trains host Ali Vallarta on what dog owners can do to protect their pets and neighbors from undue stress on trails, sidewalks, and breweries.  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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  TaskRabbit Ritual Hot Yoga Salt Lake Sewciety

Utah Republican leaders are investigating a Supreme Court justice for alleged misconduct, after she was already cleared by a bipartisan commission. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and producer Ivana Martinez discuss the politics of the situation. Plus, Utahns' "broke behaviors" and local shoutouts. Resources and references: ‘Very little credibility’: Claims against Supreme Court justice found to be ‘misleading’. Cox, GOP lawmakers investigating anyway. [Salt Lake Tribune] Did the Legislature break the law by disclosing complaint against Supreme Court justice? [Salt Lake Tribune] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  TaskRabbit Ritual Hot Yoga Salt Lake Sewciety Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

Could Utah become the country's next data center hub? Host Ali Vallarta tells executive producer Emily Means what she learned from experts at a recent roundtable and what questions remain. Resources and references: Data centers on the way to Utah, but how fast and at what cost? [Desert News]  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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  TaskRabbit Ritual Hot Yoga Salt Lake Sewciety

Could public financing get more Salt Lakers involved in local elections? For the last decade, the City of Seattle has issued $100 in vouchers to every voter to donate to the candidate of their choice in municipal elections. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Seattle podcast host Jane C. Hu about how these Democracy Vouchers work, how many people are participating, and what the impact on local elections has been. Plus, is the “Seattle Freeze” a real thing? Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

Scandal hits the Congressional District 1 race with the surfacing of offensive online posts by Sen. Nate Blouin. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Chandler Rosenberg discuss the response and the impacts. Plus, Salt Lake City wants to update its no-camping ordinance, picks of the week, and a special bonus segment for City Cast Neighbors: Are Californians ruining Utah? Resources and references: Nate Blouin reportedly derided LDS faith, made a crude joke about sexual battery in online forums [Salt Lake Tribune] Salt Lake police sit down with unsheltered Utahns to seek resource solutions [KSL] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Red Butte Garden

A years-long saga in Salt Lake City's foothills is finally coming to an end. Host Ali Vallarta asks Tyler Fonarow, SLC trails and natural lands director, how the city resolved the drama and what improvements are on the horizon.  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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Red Butte Garden

Unpredictable weather has us asking: When should we start gardening this year? Host Ali Vallarta talks with Yardfarmer founder and principal designer Daryl Lindsey about sustainable landscaping and how to save water this summer. Resources and references: Check out Salt Lake City’s resource for xeriscaping with native plants.  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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Red Butte Garden

Utah is now the epicenter of the U.S. measles outbreak. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and newsletter editor Terina Ria discuss how we got here and how to stay safe. Plus, local gripes and shoutouts.  Resources and references: Utah now ‘epicenter’ of U.S. measles outbreak [Utah News Dispatch] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Red Butte Garden Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKEBOGO  for an exclusive Buy One, Give One offer running from April 12th to April 18th

Utah's population is getting older, but there aren't many options for aging in place. Maybe going back to school could be an option! Host Ali Vallarta talks to Salt Laker Joanne Slotnik about her pitch to University of Utah President Taylor Randall for building a retirement community on campus. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Red Butte Garden

Salt Lakers, what do you do when your night life starts to dwindle? Nightlife is a huge economic driver for cities, but city offices are often closed when those businesses need help. That’s why Portland is considering hiring a Night Mayor. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Portland podcast host Claudia Meza about what this new position would do, and if it is the answer to the pandemic’s enduring negative impact on walkability, small businesses, and nightlife in cities everywhere. Plus, should your city be weirder? Mentioned on the show: "Can a Night Mayor Revive Downtown Portland?" (City Cast Portland) Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!  We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.

The Salt Lake City Council has officially rejected the Sugar House Park hotel proposal. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Kate Groetzinger discuss what happens next. Plus, the Forest Service is moving to Utah, joyful picks of the week, and a new members-only segment. Resources and references: SLC Council seals fate of hotel plans at Sugar House Park [Salt Lake Tribune]  The Uproar Over the Sugar House Park Hotel [City Cast Salt Lake]  Trump plans to move Forest Service headquarters to Utah and shutter research sites [AP] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Salt Lake City Arts Council

The University of Utah is hosting a symposium called “How We Watch The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City." Host Ali Vallarta, City Cast Salt Lake contributor Cassie Bingham, and social media manager Molly Miloscia play along and give their presentations if they were to speak at this conference.  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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Salt Lake City Arts Council

Sweetgreen plans to open a location in Sugar House! Host Ali Vallarta asks salad enthusiast and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Shireen Ghorbani to make her case for crunchy greens, and the local options Sweetgreen can’t beat. This episode originally aired on Dec. 6, 2022. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Salt Lake City Arts Council

Did you get a letter in the mail notifying you that your voter information is about to become public? Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and producer Ivana Martinez talk about a controversial new law. Plus, Salt Lake City School District cancels a 54-year-old program and local shoutouts. Resources and references: Private voter info to become public, but some Utahns, including police, can get exemptions [Utah News Dispatch] Salt Lake City School District to end Community Education Program after 54 years [KSL] 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Salt Lake City Arts Council Cozy Earth - use code COZYSALTLAKE for up to 20% off

Murals are taking over South Salt Lake, but are they always a good thing? Executive producer Emily Means asks South Salt Lake Arts Council executive director Britney Helmers about the good, the bad, and the sometimes ugly when it comes to public art in our neighborhoods.  Visit South Salt Lake's Mural Fest on May 9. 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 our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC. Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Utah Museum of Fine Arts Salt Lake City Arts Council

While both Salt Lake and Denver have a professional Women's Soccer team (go Royals!), Denver is only the second city in the U.S. to build a stadium specifically for women’s soccer. Will betting on women’s sports drive Denver’s economy or will Denverites be left paying the price for another stadium? City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Denver podcast host Bree Davies about why Denver has invested so much into having sports downtown, how Denver has capitalized on repurposing old industrial spaces, and how bad traffic gets when all your sports are downtown. Plus, is it better to have a Mayor with or without aims for a greater political office? Mentioned on the show: The $tadium Game: Inside the lucrative world of Colorado’s pro sports stadiums [⁠⁠⁠⁠The Denver Post⁠⁠⁠⁠] Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Email David now! ⁠⁠⁠⁠ We’re also on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@yourcitycouldbebetter⁠⁠⁠⁠ Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out our options⁠⁠⁠⁠.

A new law that requires third graders to study the Bible has Salt Lakers talking. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Andy Larsen discuss the controversy. Plus, diving into a Westminster University mystery and picks of the week.  Resources and references: As early as third grade, Utah students will need to study Bible passages in social studies lessons under new law [Salt Lake Tribune] Report a pothole for SLC's Pothole Palooza. Apply for the Utah Pollinator Habitat Program by April 15. Westminster University's community programs: mental health clinic and free tax clinic 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 membership.citycast.fm. Subscribe to our daily morning newsletter. You can also find us on Instagram @CityCastSLC.  Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: (801) 203-0137 Looking to advertise on City Cast Salt Lake? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads. Learn more about the sponsors of this episode:  Harmons