As the holiday shopping season kicks into gear, chances are you'll find yourself heading out to The Domain. But let's be real, that place tends to spark some strong opinions among Austinites. We either love it or we really really don't. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Hey Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec to unpack all things Domain: the good, the bad, and the downright cringe. From shopping and dining to people-watching and parking woes, we’re diving into what this mixed-use mecca says about our city.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 6th episode: DUER

The results are in, and Austinites voted against Proposition Q, which would have raised property taxes by more than 20% and added $110 million to the city's budget. So what will happen now? Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and Hey Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw to break down last night's election results and explore what lies ahead for City Council and the city programs now facing uncertainty. Plus, the team gets into which Texas constitutional amendments passed.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 5th episode: DUER

Last week, The Michelin Guide revealed the second annual Texas guide, honoring 51 Austin restaurants with stars, Bib Gourmands, and recommendations. For some, it’s the ultimate win, but do Michelin stars really mean anything here in Austin? Host Nikki DaVaughn sits down with Texas Monthly restaurant critic Paula Forbes and Alicynn Fink, a partner of the Michelin-awarded Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, to break down the results, the surprises and what this year's awards will mean for Austin's dining scene.   Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this November 4th episode: DUER Cozy Earth - Use code COZYAUSTIN for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.

Think Austin takes a breather after October? Think again. November’s bursting with events, eats, and inspiration. If you’re not sure what to add to your calendar (or your fridge), fear not! Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producer Elissa Castles and Leila Sales, book publisher, editor, and writer of the weekly newsletter Lite + Brite, to help you plan the perfect month in Austin. We’re sharing our top picks for what to see (don’t miss the Austin Studio Tour), what to read, and what to cook this November. Plus, if you’ll be spending extra time in the kitchen, consider giving back by donating to one of Austin’s local free fridges. For even more tips on how to make the most of November in Austin, check out Hey Austin’s take on what to do this month.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget – you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE Learn more about the sponsors of this November 3rd episode: DUER

As the federal government shutdown stretches past four weeks, its impact is hitting home in Austin. Starting tomorrow, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will be paused, leaving many families uncertain about how they’ll put food on the table, and food banks racing to fill the gap. On today's Friday News Round Up host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by producer Elissa Castles and senior account executive Dan Weinstock to discuss what this means for our community and how Austinites are stepping up to help. Plus, the team digs into reports of whooping cough spreading at an Austin middle school, why Elon Musk's company is removing safety crews from its Robotaxis, and of course our weekend plans. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 31st episode: Austin Food and Wines Festival

As October winds down and fall settles in, Austin’s taps are overflowing with rich, seasonal ales. Host Nikki DaVaughn admits beer isn't always her favorite, but the season's brews are sometimes too tempting to pass up. Award-winning beverage and food writer Ruvani de Silva joins Nikki to make the case for Austin's hearty stouts, bold porters, and other local seasonal favorites that even beer skeptics will want to try. Plus, she shares her favorite spots to sip a pint and her picks for local ales that have become Austin classics. This episode originally aired October 29th, 2024.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 30th episode: Austin Food and Wines Festival

Austin's local businesses are the heart of what keeps this city unique and full of character. But with tariffs putting pressure on small shops around town, shopping local matters more now than ever before. On today's episode, host Nikki DaVaughn joins Austin influencer Ciara Cera, who's just discovering the city's independent gems, to share the best spots for gifts, plants, and other one-of-a-kind finds you won’t see anywhere else. Whether you're a long-time Austinite or brand new to town, these shops will remind you to "Keep Austin Weird."  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 29th episode: Austin Food and Wines Festival

Austin's⁠ ⁠⁠busy season⁠⁠⁠ is in full swing. If you’ve been bouncing from festivals to shows, staying out past 10 p.m. and wondering where to grab a bite, we’ve got you covered. On today’s episode, host Nikki DaVaughn teams up with executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and producer Elissa Castles to share Austin’s best spots for late-night snacking, quick to-go bites and cozy dine-in eats. Whether you’re craving tacos, comfort food or something sweet, Austin’s late-night options might surprise you. And good news, night owls: Magnolia Cafe is⁠ ⁠⁠back to 24-hour service⁠⁠⁠ Thursdays through Sundays! Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our ⁠Hey Austin newsletter⁠.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at ⁠membership.citycast.fm⁠  Follow us ⁠@citycastaustin⁠ You can also ⁠text us or leave a voicemail⁠.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info ⁠HERE⁠  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 28th episode: ⁠Cozy Earth⁠ - Use code COZYAUSTIN for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. ⁠Austin Food and Wines Festival⁠

Austinites can now take improv classes from the Upright Citizens Brigade, further solidifying our fair city’s spot as one of the country’s funniest cities (at least if you ask us). While we once had only a handful of choices for venues to make us laugh out loud, Austin is now home to dozens of comedy clubs, including Joe Rogan’s Comedy Mothership. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by local comedian Izzy Burger, who hosts Ladies Night at the Velveeta Room; and Dave Buckman of ColdTowne Theater to dig into what makes Austinites so funny, where to get started if you think you’re funny, and what the New York Times got wrong about The Creek and The Cave’s move down here during the pandemic.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 27th episode: Austin Food and Wines Festival

Gov. Greg Abbott's latest move to clear out Austin's homeless encampments this week has once again put the city and state at odds. Mayor Kirk Watson claims to have been blindsided by Abbott's directive and was disappointed by the state's approach. On this week's Friday News Round Up, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and Hey Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw to talk about the latest showdown between Austin and the State of Texas. Plus, we discuss the extreme drought conditions, the exciting chance of rain (remember that stuff?), and what we're getting into this weekend.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 24th episode: Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off

The fight over Austinites’ vote in the city’s tax rate election is going full-force, with early voting already underway and thousands of dollars raised and spent by the two sides. In case you hadn’t heard, Austin City Council voted to ask you to pay more in property taxes in order to fund its $6.3 billion budget. The 5 cent increase per $100 valuation is set to bring in around $110 million. Yesterday, we dug into the case for the measure, known as Proposition Q. Today, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Robin Rather of the Zilker Neighborhood Association to discuss the case against Prop Q.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 23rd episode: Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off

The fight over Austinites’ vote in the city’s tax rate election is going full-force, with early voting already underway and thousands of dollars raised and spent by the two sides. In case you hadn’t heard, Austin City Council voted to ask you to pay more in property taxes in order to fund its $6.3 billion budget. The 5 cent increase per $100 valuation is set to bring in around $110 million. To dig into the case for the measure, known as Proposition Q, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Austin City Councilmember Jose “Chito” Vela. And, make sure you tune in tomorrow for the case against Prop Q.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 22nd episode: Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off

Whether you bleed burnt orange or not, there’s something for every Austinite around The University of Texas at Austin’s campus. From long-standing restaurants to brand new ones, trusty dive bars to groundbreaking concepts, and sights and sounds you did not know existed — we’ve got your guide to the UT campus area. Host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Debra Hallum, co-owner of The 1972 Pub, the first women’s sports bar in Texas; and executive producer and fellow Longhorn Eva Ruth Moravec to talk about their favorite places to eat and drink, and what to see and do around UT Austin. Plus, they discuss good gathering spaces for groups, in case the Texas Campus Protection Act becomes effective again.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 21st episode: Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off Cozy Earth - Use code COZYAUSTIN for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.

Earlier this month, the Austin Independent School District released a draft plan to close 13 schools to combat its $19.7 million budget deficit. With a final vote scheduled for Nov. 20, parents and community members are trying to make their voices heard before decisions are set in stone. On today's episode, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Austin American-Statesman education reporter Keri Heath and Emily Poliakoff, whose son is a student at Ridgetop Elementary – one of the schools that might close – to discuss the district's plan, how it’s impacting families, and the bigger questions these closures raise about the future of public education in Austin. Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE Learn more about the sponsors of this October 20th episode: LBJ Presidential Library Adios - Use code CITYCAST for 50% off

Early voting starts Monday, and Austin voters have some big decisions ahead, including 17 Texas Constitutional amendments and a tax rate election. If that sounds like a total snooze, we get it – but don't sleep on it! On this week's Friday News Round Up, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and producer Elissa Castles to break down what’s on this year's ballot. Plus, the team chats about the plan to remove painted crosswalks in town to comply with a state order and avoid losing state and federal funding, and our weekend picks.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 17th episode: LBJ Presidential Library The Texas Tribune Festival Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST

Austin’s hospitality scene has been in the news, from the eight local hotels that kept their esteemed Michelin Keys, to the seven on Condé Nast’s readers choice list of the top 15 hotels in Texas. In today’s episode, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by Austin Monthly's Editor-in-Chief Madeline Hollern to talk about the best staycations for couples, families, groups, and more. While everyone’s tired of the summer temps by now, look on the bright side! At least it’s still warm enough to sit by a pool or river. We’ve got some of our favorites for that, too. This episode originally aired on June 3.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 16th episode: LBJ Presidential Library The Texas Tribune Festival Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST

From the stick-straight pines of Bastrop to an iconic dinner table in a room full of animal carcasses, Central Texas is home to dozens of creepy scenes on the silver screen. To celebrate scary movie season, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by City Cast Austin contributor Eric Webb to dish on what’s filmed here, and our local horror film and TV stars. And heads up, several Austin venues are showing scary movie series right now, like the Paramount Theatre, AFS Cinema, Hyperreal Film Club, and the Alamo Drafthouse. Plus, would movies like “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” installments or Robert Rodriguez’s portion of “Grindhouse” be eligible for a Texas heritage grant boost under the state’s new film incentives requirements? Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 15th episode: LBJ Presidential Library The Texas Tribune Festival Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST

Texas’ new “Campus Protection Act” is in full force, and with it comes lots of changes to protests at public colleges and universities in the state, just a handful of years after those rights were enshrined in another law. Meanwhile, new state committees have been established to study free speech on campuses, teachers and staff at Texas public schools are under fire for comments on social media, and the Texas Attorney General has launched an undercover operation targeting “leftist terror cells.” To better understand how free speech in Austin is changing under the Trump Administration, host Nikki DaVaughn and executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec are joined by JT Morris, senior supervising attorney for the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), and the lead attorney in a federal lawsuit challenging the new act.   Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 14th episode: LBJ Presidential Library The Texas Tribune Festival Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Cozy Earth - Use code COZYAUSTIN for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.

At the end of Friday last week, AISD announced a plan to close 13 school campuses at the end of the school year in an effort to address its $19.7 million deficit. The proposed closures come amid years of declining student enrollment and as the district faces a looming threat of a state takeover. On this week's Friday News Roundup, host Nikki DaVaughn is joined by executive producer Eva Ruth Moravec and Hey Austin newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw to break down what these potential school closures mean for the community and for the future of public education in Austin. Plus, the team dives into the highs and lows of ACL weekend one and shares the electric news about the new business moving into the old Austin American-Statesmen's building.  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 10th episode: Wise New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway LBJ Presidential Library The Texas Tribune Festival

A recent report by home security company Vivint concluded that Austin had more ghost sightings last year than almost any other city. And honestly, we’re not surprised. From the moontowers to the Texas State Cemetery and so much more, Austin is full of haunting tales. Newsletter editor Kelsey Bradshaw hosts today’s conversation with Jeanine Plumer of Austin Ghost Tours for a virtual tour of Austin’s most haunted haunts. Plus, you’ll never guess what natural element Jeanine says bumps Austin to the top of that ghost list.  This episode originally aired on October 31, 2024  https://austin.citycast.fm/podcasts/why-water-is-crucial-for-austins-ghosts  Want some more Austin news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Austin newsletter.  And don’t forget– you can support this show and get great perks by becoming a City Cast Austin Neighbor at membership.citycast.fm  Follow us @citycastaustin You can also text us or leave a voicemail.  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE  Learn more about the sponsors of this October 9th episode: Wise New Waterloo - Trick Hat Workway LBJ Presidential Library