Whether you’re hitting the slopes to go snowboarding on Mount Hood or staying inside to watch a Studio Ghibli film with themed snacks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy January in Portland — both indoors and out. City Cast Portland has picked the best of the month’s food, entertainment, and community happenings to help you kick off the new year in style. Plus, a bonus suggestion from our episode archive: Portland Bartenders Are Reinventing Cocktails — Without the Alcohol If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Portland community.  For even more tips on how to make the most of January in Portland, check out the City Cast Portland newsletter’s take on what to do this month.  Learn more about the sponsors of this Jan. 2 episode: Simply Eloped Cat Adoption D'Amore Law DUER - Mention code CCPDX for 15% off

As we count down to the new year and brace for the cold, rainy weeks ahead, we’re revisiting a conversation with Ryan Hashegen about some of the best ways to keep moving and have fun while staying dry this season. They’re the founder of ⁠Icicle Tricycles⁠, the managing director of ⁠Better Block PDX⁠, and the director of the ⁠Steel Bridge Skatepark Coalition⁠.  This episode first aired on Jan. 6, 2025 Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Indoor Sports: ⁠Portland All Wheels Welcome⁠ ⁠Skate Like a Girl⁠ ⁠Push Movement⁠ ⁠Stronger Skatepark⁠ ⁠Commonwealth Skateboarding⁠ ⁠Cal Skate Skateboards⁠ ⁠Oaks Park Roller Rink⁠ ⁠Skate Oregon School⁠ ⁠Shift 2 Bikes⁠ ⁠Rose City Futsal⁠ Dancing and Music: ⁠Contra Remix⁠ ⁠The Showdown⁠ Square Dancing ⁠Stomptown⁠ Line Dancing and Country Two-Step ⁠Portland Country Dance Community⁠ ⁠Aztec Willies⁠ Bachata  ⁠McMenamins Kennedy School⁠ Jam Session ⁠T.C. O'Leary's⁠ Jam Session Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up ⁠here. ⁠ Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at ⁠portland@citycast.fm⁠, or leave us a voicemail at ⁠503-208-5448⁠. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our ⁠morning newsletter⁠ and be sure to follow us on ⁠Instagram⁠.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at ⁠citycast.fm/advertise⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 30th episode ⁠Simply Eloped⁠ ⁠Cat Adoption⁠ ⁠D'Amore Law⁠ ⁠PBOT⁠ ⁠DUER⁠ - Mention code CCPDX for 15% off

Now that the holidays are almost over, it's time to think about staying active all winter long. In addition to experiencing our beautiful wilderness during one of its most magical seasons, cross-county skiing is also a pretty great workout. Today we're revisiting a conversation with Portland Monthly's Rebecca Jacobson. She published a beginner’s guide to the sport to help first-timers navigate getting out on the trails and gliding on the snow.  This episode first aired on Dec. 17, 2024 Mentioned in today’s show: Mountain Shop Sno-Park Parking Permits Teacup Nordic Pocket Creek Sno-Park Atkisson Sno-Park Guler Ice Caves Cabin Rentals - Gifford Pinchot National Forest Meissner Nordic Mt. Bachelor Nordic Methow Trails Stumptown Birkebeiner Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 29th episode Simply Eloped Cat Adoption D'Amore Law PBOT DUER - Mention code CCPDX for 15% off

As 2025 comes to a close, we're reflecting on everything we’ve lived through this year. Today on City Cast Portland, producers John Notarianni, Giulia Fiaoni, and a few of our contributors join host Claudia Meza to discuss the biggest, wildest, and most surprising things that happened in our city this year.  Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition Hotline: 1(888) 622-1510    Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. If you enjoyed this interview with Ivan Hernandez, the Oregon Food Bank Digital Communications and Engagement Manager, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 23rd episode Simply Eloped Cat Adoption D'Amore Law PBOT DUER - Mention code CCPDX for 15% off

This was a big year for Oregon writers. Some of the most talked-about books of 2025 came from authors living right here — including a couple of National Book Award finalists. Today, Portland Monthly senior associate editor Matthew Trueherz is here to walk us through a few standouts in fiction and nonfiction, featured on the magazine’s annual best books list.  Discussed in today's episode: Wolf Bells, by Leni Zumas God and Sex, by Jon Raymond One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This, by Omar El Akkad Reading the Waves, by Lidia Yuknavitch Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. If you enjoyed this interview with Ivan Hernandez, the Oregon Food Bank Digital Communications and Engagement Manager, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 22nd episode: Simply Eloped Cap Adoption D'amore Law PBOT DUER - Mention code CCPDX for 15% off

This week in Portland, we’re looking into why five city council members are lawyering up, the controversial multibillion-dollar idea to revitalize a coastal town, and a check-in on three local labor disputes. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week’s Friday news roundup are KBOO news director Althea Billings and our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Law Firm That Regularly Sues the City Over Police Misconduct Is Representing Peacock Councilors [Willamette Week]   Oregon’s Leading Politicians Want To Bet Billions of Dollars on a New Shipping Terminal. Critics Say It’s a Costly Mistake. [Willamette Week]   Strike Averted: New Seasons Grocery Workers Secure First Labor Contract [Portland Mercury]  Legacy Health Strike Grows as 80 Urgent Care, Pediatric Care Providers Plan Walkouts [Oregonian] Starbucks Workers Rally One Month Into Strike [Willamette Week]  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 19th episode: Portland Spirit PaintCare PGE

Today, we're talking about one unexpected activity that might stir your spirit for the outdoors this winter — snow camping. How do you even do it, and is it really worth it? Joining us is outdoor expert and Portland ambassador for Women Who Explore, Karrie Carnes. She has tips for how to pull off a safe winter camping trip this season that doesn’t involve getting frostbite. Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 18th episode: Portland Spirit PaintCare Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off PG&E

This week, we’re discussing our official new city administrator, the reason the state's new gas tax is now on hold, the latest local government declaring an emergency over Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity, and much more in our news lightning round. Joining executive producer John Notarianni on this midweek round-up is our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: City Council Hires Raymond Lee As Next City Administrator [Willamette Week] Local Homelessness Prevention Could See $21 Million Funding Bump [Portland Mercury] Oregon Tax Opponents Turn in ’Nearly 200,000′ Signatures [OPB] Ethics Commission Investigates Progressive Portland City Councilors Over August Retreat [Oregonian] Multnomah County Declares Emergency in Response to ICE Enforcement [Fox12] Bring Erik Téllez Home to His Family [GoFundMe] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. If you enjoyed this interview with Janessa White, the Director & General Manager of Simply Eloped, learn more here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this December 17th episode: Portland Spirit PaintCare Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off PGE

One in six Oregon children lives in a food-insecure home, and now as we enter the holidays and brace for new cuts to federal food assistance, many families are wondering how they’ll get through the months ahead. Today we’re joined by Rachael Lucille Jackson-Davis of the Oregon Food Bank to talk about what hunger really looks like right now, how the safety net is shifting, and what kind of support makes the most difference. Find free groceries, meals, or places to double your SNAP EBT benefits near you at foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org/  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 16th episode: Portland Spirit PaintCare Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off PGE

This is the time of year when a quick, comforting breakfast feels especially appealing, so it's fortunate that Portland has plenty of options. Today we're revisiting a conversation about Portland's best breakfast sandwiches — from the tastiest sauce to the ultimate hangover cure. This episode first aired July 17, 2025 Some Places Discussed in Today's Episode: Pie Spot Great North Coffee Fried Egg I’m In Love Kind Coffee Podnah’s Pit Dawnbringer Sincerely, Bagel ROAM Better Half PDX Two of Us Rad Magic Subs Picone’s Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 15th episode: Portland Spirit PaintCare Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off PGE

This week in Portland, Mayor Wilson's next set of ambitious goals, an influencer suing the Portland Police Department for being biased against conservatives, and the uncertain future of a historically Black high school in North Portland. Joining host Claudia Meza on this week’s Friday news roundup are Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Editor’s note: This podcast episode was updated to fix an audio cut that incorrectly credited a quote to D. Angus Lee. Discussed in Today's Episode: Here Are 3 Things Portland’s Mayor Wants To See in the Central City by 2030 [Oregonian] Right-Wing Reporter Preps $10M Federal Suit Alleging ‘Culture of Political Discrimination’ by Portland Police [Oregonian] The Future of Portland’s Historically Black High School Could Hinge on White Parents [Willamette Week]  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 12th episode: Breakside Brewery The Watermark Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off MUBI

Portland’s graphic novel and comic book arts scene is one of our most deep-seated and vibrant creative communities. Today on City Cast Portland, with the help of Katie Pryde (owner of Southeast Portland’s award-winning comic book shop, Books with Pictures) we’re putting together a must-read list of some of the best graphic novels and comic books, including from a few local artists and writers. Discussed in today's episode:  Northwest Museum of Cartoon Arts "Spent" by Alison Bechdel Cannon" by Lee Lai "And to Think We Started as a Book Club…" by Tom Toro "Absolute Wonder Woman" by Kelly Thompson and Hayden Sherman "Agent Cupcake" by Mel Hilario and Lauren Davis "Flip" by Ngozi Ukazu PDX Pop Up Shops Get more from City Cast Portland when you become a City Cast Portland Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 11th episode: Breakside Brewery The Watermark Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off

Today, we’re looking into how the Portland Housing Bureau director, a leading expert on affordable housing, was fired by our mayor and what the move says about the continuing power struggle in city government. Plus, we dive into our mailbag and hear from you, our listeners. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek round-up is Portland Mercury's housing and homelessness reporter, Jeremiah Hayden. Discussed in Today's Episode: Former Housing Director Says She Was Told Not to Disclose Millions in Unspent Funds [Portland Mercury] Is Seattle Better Than Portland? [City Cast Portland]   Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 10th episode: Breakside Brewery The Watermark Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off

Portland City Council approved a 6% increase to our water and sewer utility bills last summer, and they’re forecasting even higher rates in the next few years. Today we're talking to Portland Water Bureau Interim Director Quisha Light, about why our water bills are so expensive. She’s also sharing details on an ongoing project that aims to protect our water supply, and giving tips on what we can do to get help with the costs in the meantime.  Get more from City Cast Portland when you become a City Cast Portland Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 9th episode: Breakside Brewery The Watermark Babbel - Get up to 55% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Use code CITYCAST for $35 off MUBI

East Portland's Russell neighborhood is quiet, safe, and totally under-the-radar. Today, we’re continuing our neighborhood guide series where we talk with Portlanders about the good, bad, and ugly of where they live with Russell neighborhood resident Danielle Mangone, a member of the Portland Creator Community who's on Instagram as pnwplanned. Discussed in Today's Episode: Jet Black Coffee  Food Fight! Grocery John Luby Park Glendoveer Golf Course and Nature Trail Chepe's Pupuseria 99 Ranch The Alley Level Brewery McGillacuddy’s Get more from City Cast Portland when you become a City Cast Portland Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at https://membership.citycast.fm  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

This week, we’re talking about Mayor Keith Wilson declaring victory on reaching a pivotal goal in his plan to end unsheltered homelessness, and his pick for the new city administrator. Plus, why is Portland’s housing authority currently sitting on nearly a thousand empty affordable apartments? Joining host Claudia Meza on this week’s Friday news roundup are Willamette Week City Hall reporter Sophie Peel and our very own executive producer, John Notarianni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Portland Mayor Declares Victory On Homeless Shelter Bed Goal [The Oregonian] Portland’s Housing Authority Sits On 955 Empty Apartments [Willamette Week] Mayor Wilson Nominates New City Administrator [Portland Mercury] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 5th episode: Ace Handyman OMSI YMCA of the Columbia-Willamette

When most people think of Portland hip-hop, acclaimed rapper Aminé might be the only name that comes to mind. But Portland’s had a thriving hip-hop scene since the '80s. Our underrated scene helped shape West Coast hip-hop, with sounds and styles that don't fit into any particular box. Today on City Cast Portland, we're talking with veteran local DJ Grant Stolle, aka "Verbz," who’s also the co-founder of hip-hop showcase group The Thesis. He shared some music from the best Portland hip-hop artists performing right now and has tips on where to see them. Discussed in Today's Episode: Wynne Daniyel Karma Rivera Laine Wynne - The Thesis (Official Video) [YouTube] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 4th episode: Ace Handyman OMSI P:ear

Today, we’re looking into the latest actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement that are affecting our region. Joining host Claudia Meza on this midweek roundup is our very own senior producer, Giulia Fiaoni. Discussed in Today's Episode: Where Things Stand 2 Months After Trump Ordered Troops to Portland [OPB]  Another Oregon City Declares State of Emergency in Response to Federal Immigration Enforcement [Oregonian]  Feds Say Oregon 17-Year-Old Used His Car To ‘Violently Attack’ ICE Agents [Oregonian]  Reeva’s Extended Closure in Portland, Hope for Roberto’s Return [Bridgetown Bites]  ICE Contractor Seeks 200 Hotel Rooms on Oregon Coast for Secretive Federal Plans, Newport Mayor Says [Oregonian] Judge Orders DHS Secretary To Return Coast Guard Helicopter to Newport [KGW] Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 3rd episode: Ace Handyman OMSI Our Just Future

Portland and Seattle have always had a good-natured rivalry. As two of the Pacific Northwest's biggest cities, it's easy to compare ourselves with our neighbor to the north — we both have ample access to nature, thriving food scenes, and plenty of rain. But in honor of the recent launch of City Cast Seattle, host Jane C. Hu joins us to debate the merits of our respective cities. Today on City Cast Portland, it's Portland vs. Seattle. Which city is actually better? Stay tuned as we try to settle the question once and for all.  Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at portland@citycast.fm, or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this December 2nd episode: Ace Handyman OMSI Meals on Wheels People

Whether you’re trekking into the forest to cut down your own Christmas tree or seeking out the best holiday light displays in the area, December offers plenty of ways to feel festive. City Cast Portland has picked the best of the month’s food, entertainment, and community happenings to help you plan your month ahead. Plus, we have a few ways to help local teens enjoy a brighter holiday, too. Plus, a bonus suggestion from our episode archive: Heated Outdoor Patios and Cozy Nooks To Escape the Cold. If you're new here, welcome! We’ve put together a starter pack for you, with episodes and articles to welcome you to the City Cast Portland community.  For even more tips on how to make the most of December in Portland, check out Hey Portland’s take on what to do this month.  Learn more about the sponsors of this December 1st episode: Ace Handyman OMSI United Way of the Columbia-Willamette