City Cast Seattle
Join Jane C. Hu and the City Cast Seattle team every weekday morning as they explore the most interesting stories about the city. This informative daily podcast is for all Seattleites, whether you're a local or new to town. It covers a range of topics, from local news and culture to everyday life, with a warm and conversational approach. The show aims to keep you company during daily routines like walking the dog, riding the bus, or sitting in traffic, while offering illuminating insights into Seattle.
Episodes
VRAP Controversy, Unsettling Grocery Store Experiences, and Jimothy at Costco
Next week, City Council will vote on a proposed $5 million assistance program for vehicle residents. Why is this legislation drawing criticism from groups like the Seattle/King County Coalition on Homelessness? We sat down with Dee Williams, a former vehicle resident, to understand the pushback. Then, contributor Brett Hamil joins Liam and Ashley to discuss a right-wing influencer’s attempts to “e
Real Power, Real Dignity: Closing Out a Fair Economy
Ana Gaeta, Communications Manager at the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County, and Deric Gruen, Lab Leader at People's Economy Lab, join City Cast Seattle Host Jane C. Hu on this final episode of Weaving Our Future: Stories for a Fair Economy to talk about what real dignity and real power look like for workers in King County. They dig into what happens when the Workforce Developmen
Kenji López-Alt Goes Casual in Seattle and American Girl Goes Grunge
Today on the podcast, we revisit a conversation Jane had earlier this year with celebrity chef, author, and Seattleite Kenji López-Alt. They talk about Seattle’s food scene, Kenji’s version of a girl dinner, what to feed picky kids, and lots more. Then Jane, creative producer Sam, and executive producer Ashley review two so-called “historic” American Girl dolls who hail from Seattle… in 1999. If y
Seattle’s Weird Flyers, Blood Testing Sample Concerns, and Jane Says Goodbye
Today, Jane C. Hu hosts her last episode of City Cast Seattle (unless we can drag her back). She speaks with Madison Jones of Seattle Gay News about the concerning news that the Seattle LGBTQ+ Center has been ordered to send HIV/STI blood samples to a facility in Texas as part of a cost-saving measure, according to the Washington Department of Health. Madison explains why giving data to a state li
Are Small Businesses and Affordable Housing at Odds? Plus, a New Vaccine That Prevents Overdose, and Zoe Kahn’s Sandwich Fest
A team of UW researchers is developing vaccines that could prevent opioid overdoses by blocking the drug from reaching the brain. Host Jane C. Hu sits down with researcher Marco Pravetoni to discuss a future where anyone at risk of being exposed to opioids could simply take a yearly shot. Then, Jane is joined by Kika Westoff, co-owner of new local deli Friends of Carmela, and local sandwich queen
What Does a Seattle Monopoly Edition Look Like? Plus, Walking 48 Miles to End Immigrant Detention
Today on the podcast, Jane is joined by Stan Shikuma, co-chair of Tsuru for Solidarity’s leadership council, organizer, and a descendant of Poston and Tule Lake Concentration Camps, to discuss their upcoming Free Families Pilgrimage, a 48-mile walk across Puget Sound calling for an end to family and child detention. Then, Jane is joined (for the last time 😞) by contributors Brett Hamil and Chase H
The Ave’s Car-Free Pilot, Ferry Engineers Call In Sick for Better Pay, and Paid Parking Expands
After the Pike Place Market pilot, a new car-free experiment will be taking place on University Ave. Host Jane C. Hu talks to urbanist organizer L. Harrison Jerome about what they hope to accomplish by shutting down the street to cars. Then, Jane is joined by contributors Hannah Krieg and Ryan Packer to discuss the Washington State Ferry engineers' ask for better pay by coordinating a mass call ou
Your E-Scooter Hot Takes, Best PSLs in Seattle, and Liam's First Seattle-versary
Where can you find the best pumpkin spice lattes in Seattle? Heather Phan Nguyen went all-in on a PSL rankings project, so we brought her on the podcast to talk with host Jane C. Hu and Executive Producer Ashley Smith about what inspired this undertaking, what really makes a good PSL, and favorite local spots. Then, Creative Producers Liam Billingham and Sam J. Leeds hop on the mic to celebrate Li
Surveillance in Seattle, Budget Drama, Plus Policies For Pop-ups
Today on the podcast, Jane gets an insider perspective on how difficult it is to navigate the city’s regulatory system for local businesses from Vince Vu, founder of Anh Oi, a Vietnamese bakeshop. Then Erica C Barnett, founder of PubliCola and host of the Seattle Nice podcast, and Sam J Leeds, creative producer, join Jane to unpack a series of reports on Seattle’s surveillance systems and get the
Could More Art Activations Make the City Safer? Plus, Seattle Real Estate Trends and Karaoke Recs
Is it really a buyer’s market in Seattle? Host Jane C. Hu talks with real estate broker Posey Gruener and Daryl Fairweather, Redfin’s chief economist, about the state of the city’s real estate market, neighborhood trends, and what’s behind the changes in home prices. Then, artist and activist Julie Chang Schulman and journalist and critic Chase Hutchinson join Jane to get into the open letter that
Your Guide to October 2026 in Seattle
Fall is here, with Halloween right around the corner, and we’ve got Seattle-specific costume ideas for you (Jimothy is just the beginning)! In this episode, you’ll hear the best places to go leaf peeping, how to celebrate National Book Month, and our favorite autumn traditions. And if you love Liam’s horror movie recs, don’t miss his guide to Seattle’s best movie theaters! Finally, here's how to h
Is Seattle’s Coffee Scene Missing Anything? Plus, a New Indie Rock Podcast and the Valley of the Gnomes
2004 was the year indie rock exploded on the music scene — at least, that’s according to a new podcast that launched last week. Host Jane C. Hu and Creative Producer Liam Billingham talk with Melissa Locker, executive producer of “2004: The Year Indie Rock Broke” and founder of Nevermind Media, about what was happening musically in the early aughts, and what that looked like in the Pacific Northwe
Our Global Fashion Influence, What Bees Teach Us About Social Isolation, and the Original Gayborhood
The Washington Department of Corrections has used solitary confinement for decades, often in violation of UN rules. Could a neuroscience researcher studying bumblebees change that? Host Jane C. Hu talks with journalist Carolyn Bick about UW neuroscience researcher Micaela Romero's findings and what they reveal about solitary confinement’s psychological impact. Then, Seattle journalist Jonathan Zwi
Mayor Wilson’s Budget Explained, Seattle’s Neon Sign Past and Present, and Boeing’s Grunge Influence
Today on the podcast, Jane is joined by two first-timers to City Cast Seattle, Amy Sundberg, reporter at The Urbanist, and Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, business reporter at The Seattle Times. First, Amy, Megan, and Jane break down what’s in Katie Wilson’s budget for 2027, including questions about the lack of revenue options and the increase in the police budget. Then, Megan talks about the history an
U District's Movie Theater Revival, Elvis at the Space Needle, and a Popsicle Party
Host Jane C. Hu talks with Shane Wahlund and Michael Anderson, co-hosts of Collide-O-Scope, about how Seattle’s image on film has shifted over time and what they’ve learned from years of sorting through vintage video, found footage, and decades of film. The duo discuss their show “Once Upon a Time in Seattle,” from decades of car chases to Elvis sightings, and a surprisingly gritty Pike Place Mark
Twihards Help Quileute Tribe, Archie McPhee Owner Changes Course, and AI Enters Civics
Today on the podcast, Jane is joined by contributor Brett Hamil and creative producer Liam Billingham, both non-robots. Jane runs down the Archie McPhee saga, and then Liam, Brett, and Jane discuss owner Mark Pahlow’s apology, as well as discuss what responsibility consumers have in knowing what their money is supporting. Then the trio discuss former Councilmember Sarah Nelson’s new initiative, Ci
Seattle Expands Civil Rights, a Dynamic Pricing Ban Has Safeway Making Threats, and Amtrak Trains Get a Glow-Up
City Council and Mayor Wilson have been busy: a landmark ordinance protecting polyamorous people and diverse family structures just passed unanimously, a new city budget drops today, and grocery stores are threatening to cancel loyalty programs over a potential dynamic pricing ban. Host Jane C. Hu sits down with guest Andy Engelson, founder of Cascadia Journal, and contributor Ryan Packer to break
Why Starting a Publishing House is Punk. Plus, E-Scooter Safety and Listener Mailbag
Today on the podcast, it’s all about books! Jane is joined by Diana Le, writer and publisher at Girl Noise Press, and Katie Lee Ellison, author and founder of Nonfiction for No Reason, to talk about starting your own local publishing house, the realities of the book industry right now, and what they are reading or looking forward to this fall. Katie’s profile of Diana and Girl Noise Press will be
Is Seattle Overly Reliant on Big Tech Money? Plus, a Novel You’ll Finish in a Day
With all the headlines in the last few weeks, it’s hard to parse what is happening with AI – the bot swarms, the threats to humanity (?!) and the new report saying the city is overly dependent on tech money. Host Jane C. Hu talks with Todd Bishop, GeekWire's editor and co-founder, and Alex Halverson, tech reporter at The Seattle Times, to parse through the noise and understand what’s really going
What’s Your Absurd Seattle Documentary Idea? Plus, Local Sightings at NWFF
Today on the podcast, Jane is joined by Camille Hermida-Fuentes, co-director of the Local Sightings Film Festival at Northwest Film Forum, which starts this weekend and features local films made by local filmmakers. Camille and regular contributor Chase Hutchinson (who else, really?) discuss what they are most excited to see, and how Northwest Film Forum is trying to make movie-making accessible t
What It Takes to Raise a Kid in King County Right Now
City Cast Partner Studios presents Weaving Our Future: Stories for a Fair Economy, a five-part series on what a fair economy looks like in King County, told through the people building it.
In this episode of Weaving Our Future: Stories for a Fair Economy, Jane speaks with Tristen Hall, co-lead of the King County Early Learning Coalition, and Carlina Brown-Banks, executive director of Voice2Power
Recess Shrinking, Macklemore Dropped, and WA's Trees Are Under Attack. Plus, Mayor Wilson's Gun Violence Plan
A beautiful but deadly beetle has arrived in Washington for the first time, and host Jane C. Hu talks with Daria Gosztyla, an urban and community forestry planner with the Washington Department of Natural Resources, about what the emerald ash borer could mean for Seattle's trees, salmon habitat, and urban ecosystems. But first, Brett Hamil returns to the contributor’s side of the mic along with E
Can We Eat Lettuce Again? Plus, Where To Get a Pumpkin Spice Latte
Jane’s back from vacation! And she needs to know what’s going on, so contributors Lex Vaughn and Hannah Krieg join to update her on all she missed: Civil rights protections for polyamorous people, grocery pricing protections, Seattle Public School and AI, and more! Next, they cover some national news that has local relevance (Are you registered to vote?) like the end of the current Cyclospora outb
What Does Public Safety Really Mean? Plus, Community Garden Origin Stories and Goodbye to Spot Saver
For Brett Hamil’s last day as fill-in host, contributor Guy Oron and producer Sam J Leeds join to dig into the real numbers behind Seattle's public safety conversation and why traffic fatalities might deserve as much alarm as gun violence. Then, Sam unearths the surprisingly sweet origin story of Seattle's P-Patch community gardens, from a Boeing-bust-era neighbor's idea to 91 gardens donating 41,
SPS Budget Realities and Students Using AI. Plus, Do Bite of Seattle Texts Vindicate Mayor Wilson?
With school (almost not) back in session, Brett is joined by Seattle Times Reporter Claire Bryan to discuss the school year that almost wasn’t, whether or not SPS is really broke, and with other cities severely limiting AI or outright restricting AI, what is Seattle Public Schools’ plan? Joining Claire and Brett is PubliCola’s Erica C. Barnett, who also breaks down her story about the botched comm
Dr. Doom Crashes City Council, Cybercabs Start Test Driving, and the UW Parking Garage Skaters Love
Brett Hamil is back as guest host to explain why a supervillain showed up to give public comment at a Seattle City Council meeting and other recent political theater in the city. He’s joined by contributors Hannah Krieg and Ryan Packer to break down Dr. Doom’s surveillance camera stunt, why the Route 8 bus is now outpacing all but the fastest pedestrians (sprinters), and which Washington cities ar
Bumbershoot Success, Belltown Shootings, and Public Safety in Seattle. Plus, Late Night Eats
Today on the podcast, Brett Hamil (and his soothing NPR voice) joins as guest host to discuss all the news from over the long weekend. First off, they discuss the good news that Bumbershoot went off without a hitch, but Belltown faced 3 shootings in just 24 hours. What does that say about public safety in Seattle? Then, the trio move on to a midweek medley about the Seattle Times’ complicated AI p
Could the Fremont Troll Get Built Today? Plus, the Argument for More Light at Green Lake
Today on the podcast, we’re revisiting a conversation from earlier this year about one of Seattle’s most iconic works of art: the Fremont Troll. Steve Badanes, who designed and built the troll, gives Jane and Sam the whole story on how it came to be. He also talks about the state of public art in Seattle, and its past and future.
But first, we revisit a conversation that seems to come
Bumbershoot's Stacked Lineup, Massage Ordinances Explained, and the Punk Band That Literally Lit the Stage on Fire
Today on the podcast, Bumbershoot is back! Executive Producer Ashley Smith – who is filling in for Jane – and producer Sam J. Leeds are joined by music journalist Martin Douglas to dig into the festival's history, its wildest moments (a literal flaming pond, Method Man's weed compliments), and the must-see acts. Ashley and Sam also speak with Marybeth Berney about Federal Way’s new massage ordinan
How Can Washington Protect Its Forests, Water, and Citizens?
Have you heard of the Roadless Rule? Today on the podcast, Jane speaks with UW Professor Julian Olden about the news that the Trump administration has formally proposed its removal, and why it could lead to more fires and affect our drinking water (and beer!). Then we revisit two conversations about how the current administration’s policies are affecting Washington. The first is a chat from April
District 5’s Top Issues According to Both Candidates
Come November, Seattleites living in District 5 will vote on a new city council member who will fill the seat vacated by Cathy Moore last year and temporarily filled by Debora Juarez. In the August primary, candidates Nilu Jenks and Julie Kang advanced to the general with 54% and 33% of the vote, respectively. On today’s episode, both candidates join us on the show to talk through the top issues f
Your Guide to September 2026 in Seattle
Today on the show, host Jane C. Hu is joined by Executive Producer Ashley Smith and Creative Producer Liam Billingham to discuss the homestretch of Summer, and what they’re looking forward to most in September. Jane and Liam are looking forward to more cooking during apple season, while Ashley stays indoors with local jewelry maker Rebekah J. Designs. Plus, the Bumbershoot Music and Arts festival
Rick Steves on Buying the Edmonds Theater and Giving Away His Fortune. Plus, Fire Survivor Advice for Seattle
According to Rick Steves: “ There's no better way to start getting, putting your money to good use than right now. Shrouds have no pockets.” He tells host Jane C. Hu in today’s episode why he bought the historic Edmonds Theater in his hometown, challenges millionaires to give away more of their money “what are you afraid of?” and explains the value in investing in local communities. Jane and contr
Will the Meta Settlement Actually Change Anything? Plus, SPD's Restrictions on CARE
Seattle's CARE team was supposed to be the city's answer to unarmed crisis response — but a new Inspector General report reveals it's still being strangled by police union restrictions. Host Jane C. Hu digs into the findings with contributors Guy Oron and Brett Hamil. Then they discuss Meta's multi-billion dollar settlement and what it might actually mean for kids online. Finally, they tell you wh
Boeing Field's Deportation Surge, Unemployment Hoops for Striking Workers, and Mourning Dolly Parton
King County recently announced it had hired a flight monitoring and outreach coordinator after advocacy groups had been calling for the county to better monitor ICE’s deportation flights. Today on the show, host Jane C. Hu is joined by guest Josefina Mora-Cheung, director of organizing with La Resistencia, a grassroots organization led by immigrants and people of color who have been oppressed by t
Is Downtown Seattle Really Bouncing Back?
In July, downtown Seattle saw the most visitors it's had in years. Does that mean downtown is finally bouncing back? Today, Host Jane C. Hu is joined by Jon Scholes of the Downtown Seattle Association to talk about what’s going on downtown: Pike Place’s pedestrianization, the CCTV camera pilot and expansion, and why our office vacancy rate is so high. Plus, Jon talks about what it’s like raising k
Mayor Wilson Gives Vision Zero a Deadline. Plus, Will the Millionaires Tax Get Repealed?
Contributors Ryan Packer from The Urbanist and Hannah Krieg of The Burner join Jane C. Hu to discuss Mayor Wilson’s executive order directing Seattle’s Department of Transportation to speed up its work towards Vision Zero: eliminating traffic-related deaths. Despite the Washington legislature passing the Millionaires Tax earlier this year, folks will be voting on whether to repeal it in November.
How To Help Unsheltered Families, What Patients Actually Want From Abortion Care, and How the Local News Sausage Gets Made
Dominique Alex, CEO of Mary’s Place, joins Jane C. Hu to discuss the King County Regional Homelessness Authority’s 2026 Point-in-Time Count, which showed not only an increase in unsheltered homelessness in our region but, in particular, an increase in unsheltered families and children. Then journalists Megan Burbank and Adam Willems from CHUM News reveal what a new abortion study found that could
What’s Really Going On at the ICE Detention Center? Plus, Fighting for Police Accountability in Federal Way
The push for greater police accountability is ramping up after two incidents involving Federal Way police that resulted in the death of one Black man and the serious injury of another. Sonia Joseph, board chair of the Washington Coalition for Police Accountability, joins Jane C. Hu and contributor Marcus Harrison Green to talk about what happened to these two men, what legislation the coalition is
Who’s Really Behind Candlelight Concerts, a New Boeing Whistleblower Documentary, and the Mariners Worst Loss… Ever?!
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributor Chase Hutchinson and the Seattle Times magazine’s arts and culture writer Gemma Wilson to discuss those ads you might have been served for a variety of “candlelight” concerts around Seattle and who is actually behind them. Gemma went down a real journalistic rabbit hole to find out. Then, Jane and Chase are joined by contributor Lex Va
Seattle Has Good Bagels, Actually. Here’s Where To Get Them
Seattle is continuing to prove it’s a good bagel town. Case in point: our bagel correspondent Sean Keeley announced in his newsletter, It's a Shanda, that Seattle’s very own Hey Bagel, winner of Best Bagel at Bagel Fest West back in April, will be heading to Bagel Fest in New York City this November, along with Sean himself, who will no doubt provide all the carb-fueled updates we crave. With all
Hiring a New Police Chief, a New Permit System for RVs, and the Return of Jane C. Hu
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is back with the team, and producers Liam Billingham and Sam J. Leeds catch her up on the headlines she missed while she was away, including the latest in the Spokane arson arrest, the calls for Mayor Wilson to resign, and orcas in the Ballard locks! Then Jane and Sam are joined by PubliCola’s Erica C. Barnett to break down the latest on Councilmember Dan Stra
Where To Find Secret Public Spaces, Light Rail Delays Continue, and Listening to Seattle’s History
Today, on his final day of guest hosting (for now), Marcus Harrison Green is joined by Tony Williams to talk about History Link podcast Field Notes, and how learning about the past helps us appreciate and understand where our city came from and where it’s going. Then he is joined by Gossip Guy’s Guy Oron and Executive Producer Ashley to talk about…another light rail delay, this one for West Seattl
Unpacking Efforts To Recall Mayor Wilson, Black Nerd Magic, and Hawaiian Shave Ice That’s Worth the Line
Today on the podcast, fill-in host Marcus Harrison Green talks to Michael Peterson, one of the organizers behind the Seattle Black Nerd Festival, a celebration of Black creativity, curiosity, fandom, and imagination. The two swap nerd credentials, discuss the importance of spaces where Black nerdiness can be celebrated in all its forms, and what booking Boots Riley as the keynote speaker meant for
A Seattle-Filmed Movie, Little Saigon Wants a Comeback, and City Council Bans Junk Fees
Today on the podcast, guest host Marcus Green is joined by journalist Yuko Kodama to discuss her recent piece in the South Seattle Emerald about Little Saigon. Is it on the decline, or on the way to a comeback? Then Marcus is joined by creative producer Liam Billingham and Journalist Chase Hutchinson to discuss Seattle City Council’s busy day banning junk fees, predatory calls about selling your h
What’s Missing From the Conversation About Youth Violence? Plus, Orcas in the Ballard Locks and Meteor Showers in the Sky
Today on the podcast, fill-in host Marcus Harrison Green is joined by William Hairston, the Director of Impact Programs at Center for Children & Youth Justice, to discuss what it really means to talk about gang violence in Seattle, what programs exist to interrupt youth violence, and what is missing from the conversation about recent shootings. Then Marcus is joined by contributor Brett Hamil and
Fair Wages for Artists, Controlled Grocery Pricing, and Affordable Housing Déjà Vu
Today on the podcast guest host Marcus Harrison Green is talking all about affordability in Seattle. First, he is joined by Ryan Guzzo Purcell of the Feast theater company to talk about Artists Doing, a one-day show this weekend where a group of artists will make a living wage to produce and present a piece of art. Marcus and Ryan talk about what it takes to make a living as an artist in Seattle,
Guy Fieri Is Back, Hot Labor Summer Continues, and the Ethics of AI Education
Today on the podcast, Jane is on vacation. And we are thrilled that City Cast contributor Marcus Harrison Green has stepped in to fill Jane’s (probably very-cool-looking) shoes! First, Marcus speaks with University of Washington professor and archaeologist Ben Marwick about the proposed Artificial Intelligence minor the university is proposing. They speak about the ethics of AI, when it should and
‘Your City Could Be Better’: Jane C. Hu Debates Naked Neighbors, Unwelcome Pets, and Other City Life Dilemmas
As much as you love Seattle, city living inherently means sharing space and resources with your neighbors, and y’all certainly have complaints, questions, and quandaries. On our first call-in episode, Seattle’s very own Jane C. Hu joins City Cast DC host Bridget Todd and City Cast CEO David Plotz to respond to your dilemmas, from when it’s acceptable to intervene on a bike path to what to do about
Primary Elections Results So Far, Big Tech Is Hiding AI Debt, and Chief Barnes’ Legacy Reviewed
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by independent journalist Erica C. Barnett and tech reporter for the Seattle Times Alex Halverson to break down the three big topics on everyone’s mind: the primary election results, what the heck is going on with AI and big tech, and what is former Police Chief Shon Barnes’ legacy in Seattle? Erica and Jane take a look at the results so far for key
What’s Your Plan for Emergencies? Plus, How To Be a Good Library Card Holder
Today on the podcast, we’re revisiting some recent conversations we’ve had about the city that matter now, like how to be prepared and where to go in case of an emergency. First of all, with the primary election this week asking us to vote on an increased library levy, we revisit a conversation with Tom Fay of The Seattle Public Library about the challenges of digital holds and e-books for the lib
Should Seattle’s Police Chief Live Here Full Time? Plus, Spokane Fire Resources and a New Ballard Light Rail Timeline
Today on the show, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Hannah Krieg and Guy Oron to discuss the fires currently burning in Spokane. With more than 700 structures burned and more than 60,000 people evacuated, these fires are the most destructive in Washington history. Jane checks in on Hannah’s family who live in the city and shares ways to support fire evacuees including: the H.O.M.E. Stars
Our Essential Rules for Living in Seattle. Plus, The Stranger’s Guide to Supreme Court Judges
Today on the podcast, Jane is joined by Nathalie Graham of The Stranger to talk us through their choices for Supreme Court Judges in Tuesday’s Primary Election (Have you voted yet?). Nathalie tells Jane what they look for in order to decide their endorsement. Then, Jane is joined by Seattle veteran Sam J.Leeds and Seattle newbie Liam Billingham to talk about our essential rules of living in Seattl
How Do We Talk About Local Gun Violence? Plus, the Fight for the Empty IMAX
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Marcus Harrison Green and Chase Hutchinson to discuss how our city is processing and mourning the deaths of three people killed in the shooting that took place at Seattle Center on Sunday evening. Chase shares his perspective on the tragic events as someone who was at Seattle Center when the shots rang out. Marcus digs into his writin
Your Guide to August 2026 in Seattle
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu brings on producers Ashley, Liam, and Sam to talk about all the things to do this August: Sam talks berries, Ashley brings her hobbies and sports knowledge, and Liam…well, Liam talks about indoor activities. We discuss outdoor concerts, baseball, clandestine zucchini drops, parks, Perseids, and more. It’s all here!
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Should WA Start a Public Bank? Plus, a New RapidRide Bus and Base Jumping off the Space Needle
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu gives a short update on new information about the Seattle Center shooting Sunday night, including a second community vigil taking place at 6:30 pm tonight at the International Fountain at Seattle Center. Then Jane is joined by contributor Brett Hamil and journalist Andy Engelson to discuss what Andy learned from talking with the CEO of the Bank of North Dakota
What To Know About the Seattle Center Shooting, SEPA Updates, and Good News When We Need It
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Hannah Krieg and Ryan Packer to discuss the shooting that occurred Sunday night at Bite of Seattle at Seattle Center. They talk about what we know, the other shootings that occurred in Seattle over the weekend, but overall their love for the city and how these events are not unique to Seattle. Then they discuss legislation put forward
The Free School Meals Saga Explained and Why Instagram DMs Aren’t Secure
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu, contributor Adam Willems, and educator and parent Jesse Hagopian explain the twisting saga of Seattle’s plan to feed all public school students. They break down the city council’s amendment delaying universal free school meals and then introducing a plan to bring them back this fall less than 24 hours later. Adam explains what the millionaires tax has to do w
Did Big Oil Kill a Washington Woman? Plus, the Male Shopper Instacart Problem
Today on the podcast, Jane C. Hu is joined by journalists Naomi Ishisaka and Marcus Harrison Green to discuss the news that the first-ever U.S. lawsuit holding Big Oil accountable for a death will go to trial and that it involves the death of a woman during the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat dome. Then Jane, Naomi and Marcus talk about Naomi’s recent viral piece about male Instacart shoppers and what
Will Seattle Say Yes to Taxes for Transit? Plus, SIFF Walkout, and Public Toilets Dethroned
Seattle's City Council unanimously passed the Seattle Transit Measure this week, sending a sales tax increase to November's ballot that would mean more frequent buses and 22,000 free transit passes for low-income households. Host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Ryan Packer and Chase Hutchinson to discuss what actually changed through two dozen proposed amendments, and what happens if voters s
Your Guide to the Primary. Plus: What’s Sunshine Guilt?
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributor Brett Hamil and creative producer Sam J. Leeds to talk all about the most consequential races (If you need more info on races and your district, there’s a website for that). Jane, Brett, and Sam break down all the drama and backstories with these races, and why they matter. Finally, they do a midweek medley about Kalshi, A/C and renter
Cold War Summer at SIFF, Cyclospora Outbreak, and the Team’s Screen Time Revealed
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu and producer Liam Billingham speak with guest Carson Renkamp, development and membership manager at SIFF, to discuss his new series Cold War Summer. Carson explains his love of classic spy movies, the unique opportunity to see several of them on 35mm, and what we might gain from revisiting films from the Cold War era in U.S. history. Then Jane digs into the la
El Niño For Dummies, What’s Replacing Starbucks, and Jimothy Takes Over
Today on the podcast, Washington State Climatologist Guillaume Mauger returns to explain what El Niño is and why it matters. Then Jane is joined by two coffee snobs: The Needling’s Lex Vaughn and City Cast Executive Producer Ashley Smith to talk about what can fill the empty Starbucks’ around town, and how it isn’t what it used to be. Finally, the trio talk about Seattle’s favorite son: Jimothy. W
Betting on Wildfires, Denny Blaine Verdict Is In, and Exchanging Books in Ballard
On today’s episode, host Jane C. Hu talks with science journalist Kylie Mohr about the prediction markets allowing people to bet on natural disasters, including wildfires. As this hot, dry summer continues, Kylie explains the risks involved in betting on fires that can be human-made as well as who is profiting from these bets. Then Jane is joined by contributors Guy Oron and Marcus Harrison Green
What Do We Do About Aurora? It’s Complicated
Today on the podcast, we dig into the issues surrounding Aurora Avenue. Aurora has a long and complicated history, and more recently, local residents’ relationship to one northern section of the road has only gotten more so: the section of the road between 85th and 105th streets experiences frequent gunfire, which some believe is rooted in sex trafficking. Earlier this summer, neighbors, dissatisf
How a Civic Assembly Changed Minds on AI. Plus, the WA Lawsuits Over Schools and Housing
A civic assembly of 29 Snohomish County residents just spent three weekends wrestling with one of the thorniest questions in local government: how should officials use AI and should they use it at all? Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu talks with KNKX reporter Nate Sanford and assembly participant Dhruv Raithatha about what it's actually like to build consensus with strangers. Then contributor
Are You Paying Rental Junk Fees? Plus, Expanded Transit and Time Capsules
Today on City Cast Seattle, Jane C. Hu is joined by regular contributors Hannah Krieg and Ryan Packer to discuss the news that Mayor Katie Wilson is targeting rental junk fees and what a renter should pay and what they shouldn’t. Then they talk about another of the Mayor’s plans: an increase on sales tax towards transit measures, which would up the 2020 figure of .15% to .3%, raising $138 million
With August Primaries Approaching: How Do Democracy Vouchers Work? Plus, How To Make Friends In Seattle
Today on the show, host Jane C. Hu sits down with City Cast CEO David Plotz to talk about Democracy Vouchers. With August primaries coming up, it felt like a good time to refocus on one of Seattle’s most iconic political innovations. For the last decade, Seattle has issued $100 in vouchers to every voter to donate to the candidate of their choice in municipal elections. For the August primary this
June Sets Record for Zero Homicides, Pro Tips for Ballard Seafood Fest, and a "Life Skills" Class for WA High Schools
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Marcus Harrison Green and Chase Hutchinson. The trio talk about the Seattle Police Department declaring last month to be “homicide free” for the first time in decades. Then they get into how Washington’s superintendent has proposed a mandatory “life skills” class for high school seniors and what they wish we’d all learned before gradu
Anti-ICE Protest Convictions, FBI Phone Data Grabs, and Is Spokane Beating Seattle on Urbanism?
Today, on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu speaks with two reporters about the federal conspiracy charges brought against three protestors in Spokane, what conspiracy charges actually mean in practice, and what it signals for protesters everywhere. Erin Sellers, a staff reporter at RANGE Media, takes us through the story from the anti-ICE protests last summer to the nine indictments and the three prot
How the World Cup Failed the CID. Plus, I-5 Closes Again
Seattle has hosted its final World Cup match, and on today’s episode, host Jane C. Hu reflects on some of the wins and losses of one of the biggest events in recent Seattle history. First, she is joined by Vince Vu of Anh Ơi Bakery to talk about how the World Cup hurt small businesses in the CID and the distance between visiting sports fans and local culture. Then Seattle Times Social Justice colu
What Has Seattle Learned From The World Cup? Plus, Economic Highs and Lows
Today on the show, Jane C. Hu is joined by contributor Hannah Krieg and creative producer Liam Billingham to talk about, despite an apparently growing economy in Washington, why are so many people being laid off and feeling frustrated? Then they talk about how Seattle has felt so neighborly during the World Cup, and Hannah argues that we don’t need FIFA to experience brotherly love. They also talk
The County’s Homelessness Agency Gets Gutted and August Primary Endorsements Collide
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu talks with contributor Guy Oron and guest Erica C. Barnett about two big political stories. First, The King County Regional Homelessness Authority is being effectively dismantled, and the city and county will take back control of the bulk of contracts for housing and shelter. Jane, Guy, and Erica dig into what the city and county's announcement actually means
'Your City Could Be Better': The Ultimate USA Trivia Battle. How Much Do You Know? — Presented By City Cast Seattle
See if your Seattle knowledge serves you well! In the first-ever Your City Could Be Better trivia episode, City Cast CEO David Plotz goes head to head with journalist and historian Alexandra Petri to see who knows more about U.S. history, geography, and celebrities ahead of the country’s semiquincentennial. Sean McPherson, trivia wiz and City Cast Twin Cities host, leads four riveting rounds of qu
Is Seattle Patriotic? Plus, What the 'Legally Blonde' Prequel Gets Wrong About Our City
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Chase Hutchinson and Eula Scott Bynoe to talk about MOHAI’s newest exhibit and what the American flag means to Seattle. Then they cover the relevance and accuracy of the new TV show, Elle, which is set in our city circa 1994. Plus, lots of weekend recommendations and a bonus segment about the infamous local food that was just crowned
Your Guide to July 2026 in Seattle
Today on the show, host Jane C. Hu is joined by producers Ashley Smith, Sam J. Leeds, and Liam Billingham to discuss all the best things to do in July. Liam requests recommendations for day trips on the ferry, and the team delivers: from a popsicle stand on Vashon to one square inch of silence in the Hoh Rain Forest. Plus, they discuss summer hikes, including the gorgeous turquoise Diablo Lake and
Is President Trump Coming to Seattle? Plus, SCOTUS Ruling Preserves WA Mail-in Voting
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by Tuyen Than, Executive Director of the Chinatown International District Business Improvement Area. They talk about the history of the organization, why some residents want security cameras in the district, and the news that the CID recently broke a world record! Then Jane is joined by contributor Hannah Krieg and creative producer Liam Billingham t
42 Years of The Wildrose, King County's Unsheltered Homelessness Surge, and Listener Mailbag
Today on the podcast host Jane C. Hu is joined by guest Rachel Karp, creator of the podcast Cruising and author of The Lesbian Bar Chronicles, along with producer Sam J. Leeds to dig into a savvy real estate decision that’s kept The Wildrose – one of the oldest lesbian bars in the country – operating for the last 42 years. Rachel also shares the storytelling event they’re hosting at the Rose on Ju
World Cup Pride Protests, Montlake’s Plan for Permanent Affordable Homes, and Jane’s Three-Ferry Century
Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Marcus Harrison Green and Brett Hamil to discuss the record-setting attendance at the Juneteenth World Cup event last week and the more contentious collision of Pride weekend with the Egypt-Iran match — two countries where being queer can mean facing prison or the death penalty. Then, a proposed Seattle City Council bill could turn a
Why the Walrus and the Carpenter Closed and an Update on the Grand Cinema's Threat
Today on the pod, host Jane C. Hu is joined by regular contributor Chase Hutchinson and newsletter writer and journalist Harry Cheadle to talk about the latest strikes at The Walrus and The Carpenter and Hilton Hotels, including the very unusual decision for management at the Ballard spot to drop anonymized compensation for some of their workers. Then they talk about the upsetting news from Tacoma
