The unionization efforts of sex workers in Nevada might have implications for gig workers in Salt Lake City. At Sheri's Ranch, a legal brothel 45 minutes outside Las Vegas, some of the workers are seeking both recognition as employees and union representation. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with former City Cast Las Vegas podcast host, current contributor, and longtime Nevada attorney Dayvid Figler about why sex workers are considered independent contractors, what sparked this legal battle, and what happens if they win. Plus, what's different about neighborhoods in Las Vegas?

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Do some cities want to leave Salt Lake County? A recent bill made it seem so. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Shireen Ghorbani dig into what's behind the Salt Lake County "divorce" proposal. Plus, summer camp ideas and joyful picks of the week.

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Utah ranked 41 out of 50 among the best states for women — what gives? Host Ali Vallarta asks founding director of the Utah Women and Leadership Project Dr. Susan Madsen what employers and policymakers could do tomorrow to boost our ranking.

This episode originally aired Sept. 10, 2025.

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Expect record-breaking temps in Salt Lake this week — 80 degrees in March?! Host Ali Vallarta, producer Ivana Martinez, and newsletter editor Terina Ria share their recommendations for making the most of this gorgeous yet disturbing weather, from best patios to outdoor activities. 

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Huge news from late last week: The federal government has bought a warehouse in Salt Lake City to use as an ICE detention center. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and newsletter editor Terina Ria talk about the details and the response. Plus, good news for your Tuesday and local shoutouts.

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Is Park City headed for its next bust era after the Sundance Film Festival's move to Boulder, Colorado? Host Ali Vallarta asks Park City Mayor Ryan Dickey what's next for the mountain town.

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Salt Lakers are concerned about police accountability, especially with the increased presence of federal troops in many cities. DC Council in Washington recently passed emergency legislation requiring local police to release body-worn camera footage of incidents involving federal forces they patrol with, and to collect the names of federal officers who make arrests. It’s a big shift in local policy, partially motivated by the fact that local cops have damaged their reputation by patrolling with feds. City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran talks with City Cast DC podcast co-host and executive editor Mike Schaffer about the political stakes involved, the effectiveness of body cameras, and how Washingtonians are dealing with the heavy federal law enforcement presence. Plus, Mike and Jacoby weigh in on public transit etiquette in their cities when it comes to people playing music out loud.

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Utah’s congressional races are heating up. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Chandler Rosenberg discuss which candidates are making waves and if you need to change your voter registration. Plus, Trump’s involvement with the Great Salt Lake and picks of the week.  

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Can astrology help us make sense of Salt Lake City’s past, present and future? Host Ali Vallarta asks Salt Lake Tribune reporter and astrologer Addy Baird what’s in the stars for the city, and she contextualizes recent events using this ancient practice.  

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Utah’s 2026 legislative session went up to midnight Friday, and today is part two of our recap. Host Ali Vallarta asks FOX 13 Capitol Hill reporter Ben Winslow what lawmakers did to your life — from gas prices to Salt Lake’s streets and LGBTQ+ healthcare.

Listen to part one: What Lawmakers Did About Liquor Laws, Voting, and Great Salt Lake

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