Can Pittsburgh hold its own when it comes to barbecue? We definitely don’t have the smoked-meat reputation of Texas or the Carolinas, but there are still plenty of spots serving excellent brisket, ribs, and pulled pork with all the fixins.’ Contributor and City Paper managing editor Colin Williams joins host Megan Harris to discuss which Pittsburgh barbecue spots are worth the trip.
**This episode originally aired September 18, 2025.
It may not feel like it right now, but extreme heat is coming for Pittsburgh, and Las Vegas might have the answers you need. An already sizzling city, Vegas has continued to experience record-breaking heat in recent years, essentially forcing it to lead the charge in protecting residents from increasingly rising temperatures. City Cast Las Vegas host Jesse Merrick talks with David about the bold moves of Nevada’s lawmakers, like mandating heat mitigation and giving away trees, and how some time-tested strategies still need to be tweaked as rising global temperatures present new problems every day.
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Today marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Western PA was directly affected: one of the hijacked planes crashed into a field in Shanksville — around 80 miles outside Pittsburgh — killing 40 passengers and crew members. Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and creative producer Boen Wang (in his podcast debut) discuss memories from that day, how new generations are learning about the attacks, and ways to commemorate the anniversary. Plus, we discuss Sen. John Fetterman's surprise video appearance at the GOP midterm convention, the best giveaways you can snag from our local sports teams (including a singing Jeff Jimerson bobblehead), and the new teaser trailer for "The Pitt."
And in today's members-only segment, we're talking about "Butler," a new movie about the 2024 assassination attempt on Donald Trump that's being filmed…in Beaver? (That's not the only reason we have questions.)
Notes and references from today’s show:
Is apple picking overrated? Are ping pong and piggy races uniquely autumnal? Would you like to make a snow (corn?) angel in a pit of dried grain? Nevermind the heat wave — fall is here in Pittsburgh. Host Megan Harris, contributor Sophia Lo, and creative producer Marla Kauffman (in her first pod appearance!) share their favorite fall festivals, farm lore, Oktoberfests, and more for the season.
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U.S. Senator John Fetterman’s former staffers have a lot to say about his public behavior and private comments, according to a new exposé from the Wall Street Journal. Some highlights: complaining that a funeral for police officers killed in the line of duty was over three hours long (he ultimately didn’t attend), cancelling a meeting with paralyzed veterans over an upset stomach (while still feeling well enough for a Fox News interview the same day), and much more. We discuss the Journal’s findings, responses from other Pennsylvania lawmakers, and why Fetterman’s memoir might actually be worth a (hate) read.
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Pittsburghese is full of fun terms and quirks, like (lovingly) referring to your nosy neighbor as nebby or saying it's slippy aht. But how exactly did it develop, and how tricky is it to pick up? Actor, voice coach and speech teacher Don Wadsworth joins us to explain what makes our dialect so distinct, and give host Megan Harris a master class in speaking Pittsburghese.
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Do you know what kind of surveillance technology is being used in Pittsburgh? In Nashville, the city government has blocked numerous measures to install and use it. From license plate readers to drone cameras, the technology is routinely rejected by the Metro Council and mayor, and locals are somewhat split on if that’s for the better. City Cast Nashville host Rachel Iacovone joins “Your City Could Be Better” to walk through all the measures that the Nashville government has reviewed and rejected, why people have reason to fear the tech, and what the city may lose by saying no to surveillance.
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The Trump Administration’s latest round of sanctions against Iran, dubbed “Operation Economic Outcast,” includes restrictions on cooperation between Iran and American universities. Starting this month, Duolingo banned Iranian citizens from taking its English Test, which many U.S. colleges require for international applicants. Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor Colin Williams discuss how the language learning company has been swept up in the U.S.-Iran War. We also share our favorite finds from PIT’s annual auction of lost items (thousands of earbuds, stuffed animals, a Mercedes… the list goes on); how the shift to fall signals earlier sunsets but also a Dolly Parton-themed corn maze; and a win for renters and housing advocates around evictions.
And in our members-only bonus segment, we track the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s itinerary for its big biannual European tour and why that matters here at home.
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Pittsburgh is full of unwritten rules and weird quirks, like reserving your parking space with a rickety chair, taking a left turn the moment the light turns green, and holding a lifelong grudge against anyone who honks in the tunnels. If you're new to the city or just need a refresher on local etiquette, we're sharing some essential rules for surviving and thriving in Pittsburgh.
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If you're making a trip to Rivers Casino, it's probably not for the food, but City Cast Pittsburgh contributor and Post-Gazette dining critic Hal B. Klein argues there are some pretty tasty dishes there. He joins host Megan Harris to talk about a months-long challenge to eat at all the casino's restaurants, and he’s sharing what each of them is best at, from legitimately great burgers and broccolini to confusingly terrible rice.
**This episode originally aired February 25, 2026.
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September in Pittsburgh means fall is coming! Check out a new regal-looking harpy eagle at the National Aviary, drive some golf balls off the upper deck of PNC Park, and toss a cast iron skillet at the Pittsburgh County Fair. Host Megan Harris, contributor Sophia Lo, and friend of the pod Rachel Carlson are sharing their picks, including The Lion King at the Benedum and a Mario Kart tournament at Bottlerocket. Plus, where to find Southern-style green beans in Homestead, the best Korean barbecue in the region, and the ALCOSAN open house literally everyone has told us to attend.
For even more tips on how to make the most of September in Pittsburgh, check out our newsletter's take.
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Should Pittsburghers stop dreaming about high-speed rail and start celebrating the trains we already have? The reality of having one is a lot more complicated and Axios Pittsburgh’s Ryan Deto is here to explain why. He and host Megan Harris talk about why geography, money and politics make high-speed rail such a long shot and why Pittsburgh’s slower Amtrak service might actually be the thing worth discovering…or rediscovering. Plus, they talk about the upcoming expansion of service between Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and New York and what it could mean for train travel in the region.
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Pittsburgh’s airport might not be the international hub it once was (RIP USAir), but it stands alone in a newer, lesser-known way: having its own electrical grid. Since 2021, PIT has been generating on-site electricity, more than it needs even at peak operation, to fortify itself against the kind of power outages that hit airports unsettlingly often across the world. Megan Harris brings David into the quiet world of airport energy independence, showing how a one-time investment is bringing peace of mind to PIT — and even making it some money in the process.
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A new collaboration pairs Disney characters with every NFL team, and the choice to represent the Steelers has been… controversial. Did Disney capture our spirit or deeply fail us? Host Megan Harris, executive producer Mallory Falk, and contributor Colin Williams debate. We also talk about several investigations Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala has launched and the frustratingly few details he's shared about them — plus, why he's coming for a “nuisance” bar on the South Side. And we explain the high-profile fight between Gov. Josh Shapiro and U.S. Health Secretary RFK Jr. over measles-related deaths in PA. And in our members-only bonus segment, we share how you can honor the memories of Dolly Parton, Tim Curry, and Yayoi Kusama, including a Dolly drag brunch and a children's book giveaway.
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It can be daunting to make new friends in Pittsburgh. Lots of people are still tight with their buddies from kindergarten, and it's not always easy to break in as a newcomer. But a bunch of local groups have popped up to help transplants, boomerangers, and even lifelong residents find community. Haley Ingersoll of Pittsburgh Social Health, Dan Lampmann of Yinz Run Club, and local author Ryan Rydzewski join us to share their best tips for building community in the Burgh.
Read Ryan's story on making local friends in Pittsburgh Magazine.
**This episode originally aired on June 3, 2025.
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Pittsburgh is on track to have its wettest August on record, which is especially concerning since flooding is our most frequent natural disaster. Host Megan Harris is with Penn State's Ben Reppert, a lecturer on meteorology and emergency management, to talk about what's at stake and whether any of us are really prepared. Plus, he shares what to do if your neighborhood is especially at risk.
**This episode originally aired on August 20, 2025.
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Is a local woman suing Taco Bell and Taylor Farms over cyclosporiasis? Is Downtown finally getting a grocery store in the form of Trader Joe's? Find out for yourself in today's edition of Two Pittsburgh Truths and a Lie. Host Megan Harris quizzes executive producer Mallory Falk on all the local news she missed while she was traveling last week. Plus, we talk about why so many Pittsburgh sidewalks are in such bad condition and what you can do about it and share some events to look forward to this week, including a cryptid dance party.
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Back-to-school season means late nights are back — and sooner or later, you’re going to get hungry. We’re revisiting our 1,000th episode, where City Cast Pittsburgh contributor and Post-Gazette dining critic Hal B. Klein joins host Megan Harris to hype up more than 20 places serving food after midnight, plus what to order when the evening cravings hit.
**This episode originally aired on March 9, 2026.
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How often are you out in nature in Pittsburgh? It’s not always easy to know which natural resources are clean and safe to use in an urban setting, and city rivers get a particularly bad rap. It’s true that cities have had eras of sewage mishandling and high boat traffic — but many have also cleaned up their act, through the tireless work of local advocates and politicians. Portland, OR, is one of those cities, and City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza joins this episode of Your City Could Be Better to debunk the assumptions and fears about her city’s river, the Willamette. Learn all about how a journalist-turned-governor led the charge to clean up Portland's waterfront, and how a quirky organizer — and lots of enthusiastic swimmers — have carried the torch.
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Penn State frats are facing yet another scandal –– this time a cocaine trafficking ring that investigators say involved students, alumni, and one Pittsburgh-area dad. Contributors Sophia Lo and Colin Williams join host Megan Harris to talk about the players, the drugs, and how much money they allegedly made. Plus, the e-scooter crackdown around Pittsburgh is picking up steam again. Pitt has says they’ll impound your scooters, while lawmakers are considering whether PA’s rules for e-scooters and e-bikes need an update. Plus, a win for HIV research and prevention, literal loss of life for local Kratom users, new regulations for Pennsylvania data centers, and a couple chances to see the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile.
And on today’s member’s-only bonus segment, some trip inspiration from Colin’s recent sojourn abroad. Don’t have access yet? Join today (it’s the last day to claim your exclusive City Cast Pittsburgh merch!) at membership.citycast.fm/pittsburgh
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Allegheny County has been ordered to reassess every residential and commercial property in the county — about 550,000 — for the first time since 2012, but that doesn’t mean your taxes will go up. Host Megan Harris is with the Post-Gazette’s Mike Wereschagin to talk about why PA law is so weird, what’s gotta happen by 2032, and how state lawmakers could fix this problem for good — if they really wanted to.
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If you enjoyed this interview with Irwin Mendelssohn, the Owner and Founder of Fulton Commons, learn more here.
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Who knows a great bar better than the people who’ve worked behind one? Pittsburgh bartenders Aubrey Halliburton and Lisa Considine, co-owners of Lo Bar Cocktail Services and Lo Places Social Club, join host Megan Harris in McKees Rocks to discuss the best dive bars in the city and why we love their lived-in decor, functional grime, and sticky floors. Plus, what the back bar tells you before you order, how to order a drink you'll actually like, and how to make a friend or two while doing it.
This episode originally aired on January 21, 2026.
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A special election in Butler County could be a bellwether for Pennsylvania Democrats ahead of the midterms in November. Host Megan Harris and City Cast Pittsburgh contributor Sophia Lo are talking about the candidates and why you should probably pay at least a little attention regardless of where you live. Also, the state is taking TikTok to court, Pittsburgh’s getting a wave of new local media outlets, and PRT’s latest draft for the bus line “refresh” is live. Plus, we’re sharing your recommendations for vintage shopping, groceries, and a hidden gem in Highland Park — and a few end-of-summer events to plan for this week!
Not sure about your voter status? Check your registration and find your polling place ahead of the general election Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Notes and references from today’s show:
Find more details about the Pittsburgh Cat Walk, Garlic Fest & Flower Fest at pittsburgh.citycast.fm/events
If you enjoyed today's interview with Tess Rowser, the Marketing Manager of the Water Lantern Festival, learn more here.
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Pittsburgh is a great hub for thrift, vintage, consignment, and flea market shopping — whether you’re hunting for a perfectly broken-in jacket, a weird little piece of history, or something you absolutely did not need but suddenly cannot live without. Ahead of National Thrift Day, we asked local vintage lovers where they shop and ended up with a much longer list than expected. City Cast Pittsburgh's Megan Harris and Rachel Carlson are talking about the differences, how to curate your own unique style, and Rachel's pro tips for taking home your next best treasure without a dressing room. Plus, why Millennials should've been stocking up on JNCO jeans instead of beanie babies, how Castle Shannon quietly became a vintage mecca, and a crowdsourced list of Pittsburgh's best secondhand spots.
Got a favorite spot we missed? Call or text the OLD STUFF HOTLINE at 412-212-8893.
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What will Pittsburgh do when it runs out of space for trash? Madison, WI, has a plan, and it’s one that other cities could follow. What could’ve just been another county landfill, slated to open in 2027, will instead be a “sustainability campus”, where local businesses will unite to more intentionally sort incoming waste, increase recycling intake, and generally aim to slow the flow of trash. And Dane County has historically handled waste disposal in a savvy way, making big bucks off of trash collection that they then use to fund future projects like this forthcoming campus. City Cast Madison host Bianca Martin breaks this all down for David, and together they uncover the quirks — and opportunities — that come with talking trash.
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Pittsburgh’s red-light cameras are officially here — and so are some new reasons to be nervous about the river water you’re maybe swimming in. Host Megan Harris and City Cast Pittsburgh contributors Sophia Lo and Colin Williams dig into what Trump’s new executive order means for Pennsylvania’s childhood vaccination guidance and why local inoculation rates have us keeping an eye on measles. Plus, we’ve got a win in the fight over UPMC patient records, Pittsburgh’s eternal cloudiness, Steelers in contention for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and a baby lion named Potato.
Sophia wants to know — is UPMC going to reverse their pause on gender-affirming care for minors? If you have some insight, call or text us at 412-212-8893.
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Downtown's new tiki bar has a volcano, a sunken fire pit, and a drink menu that admits it was made with AI. Host Megan Harris and interim newsletter editor Laura Tsutsui get into whether Spork Island Trading Company is worth your time and money. In other food news: Badamo's is bringing its signature sandwiches to Dormont, a kosher market is coming to the old Rite Aid in Squirrel Hill, and a Yemeni coffee chain is opening its largest location in the country Downtown. Plus, we say goodbye to Bryant Street Tavern, Mary’s Vine, and the Original Pittsburgh Winery. But fear not! We still have some pretty great spots to grab a glass of wine.
Got a patio we should know about? Call or text us at our EAT OUTSIDE HOTLINE 412-212-8893!
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Have you had a Waymo sighting lately? It suddenly seems like these robotaxis are everywhere. Pittsburgh has been a testing ground for autonomous vehicles for a decade now, but getting them to navigate our streets has been a lot harder than many companies hoped. Host Megan is with Axios’ transportation correspondent Joann Muller to talk about the big companies that have come and gone, how she thinks about their relative safety, and what Waymo's arrival says about Pittsburgh's evolving role in the self-driving boom. Plus, what to do if you pull up next to a robotaxi.
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One of Pittsburgh's most iconic buildings is 100 years young. Host Megan Harris and audience development manager Rachel Carlson share what they learned from an insiders’ tour of Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning, including the Nationality Rooms, a couple secret passageways, and a pretty incredible view of Pittsburgh. Plus, executive producer Mallory Falk brings some building history, including the grandiose (but, in the end, accurate) description of the tower before it was built. We also share our picks and hot tips for Pittsburgh Restaurant Week and some events we're excited to check out, from a mahjong meetup to a nostalgic dance party.
Check out Ed Simon's An Alternative History of Pittsburgh for more fun facts about the Cathedral of Learning.
Wanna get your hands on some vintage City Cast swag? We’re clearing out our swag closet, and if you join now you’ll get a limited edition pennant, mug, or tote bag to show off your city pride! Click here to support this show and get your free gift.
If you enjoyed listening to today's interview with Irwin Mendelssohn, the Owner and Founder of Fulton Commons, learn more here.
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Giant Eagle has long been the main grocery game in town — it's celebrating 95 years in the Burgh with special merch — but that's about to change. Kroger's acquiring the local chain, Wegmans and Meijer are coming to Cranberry, and Trader Joe's is allegedly looking to expand into the Strip District. It suddenly feels like we're at the center of the grocery store wars. What's going on? Could all this competition drive down prices? And can one region sustain so many chains? Host Megan Harris is with Chloe Jad, tech and retail reporter at the Post-Gazette, to discuss her reporting on these expansions and consolidations and what it all means for the average Pittsburgher who just wants some decent quality, reasonably priced groceries.
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