A massive data center is moving forward at lightning speed in northern Utah. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Andy Larsen discuss the forces behind it. Plus, the beloved 400 South Chili's is closing, picks for your weekend, and a members-only bonus segment: What should go in SLC's time capsule?

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May in Salt Lake — is it spring? Is it summer? Why not both! Host Ali Vallarta, producer Ivana Martinez, and newsletter editor Terina Ria bring you a guide to making the most of this month, from sheepdog racing to dinner parties. Plus, listen to this episode for even more coffee recs.

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Utahns love to get outside, but when you gotta go … you gotta go. Host Ali Vallarta asks Angelique Fish, cofounder of the Women's Wine Hiking Society, how to poop outdoors tactfully and keep our trails clean all summer long.

This episode first aired on Dec. 12, 2025. 

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A bunch of candidates will be on your ballot for the Congressional District One Democratic primary. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and newsletter editor Terina Ria break down the results from this weekend's nominating conventions. Plus, a new clean energy program in SLC and shout outs.  

Resources and references:

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What do you actually know about composting? Host Ali Vallarta talks with Momentum Recycling’s marketing specialist Hyrum Wendel about what Salt Lakers get wrong, and how to get started without the stink.

Resources and references:

How To Compost in Salt Lake City [City Cast Salt Lake]

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If you enjoyed this interview with Eric Haymond, the SVP of Business Development for Taskrabbit, learn more here.

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Are DIY urban projects the key to improving the infrastructure in cities like Salt Lake? The grassroots group To Nashville, With Love has built and installed 60 benches at bus stops around Nashville, all without government approval. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Nashville podcast host Marie Cecile Anderson about what this guerrilla campaign is doing, why it’s gotten pushback from the city, and where Nashville’s Tactical Urbanism program fits into all this. Plus, the unique challenges of Nashville tourism. 

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Multiple women have accused Salt Lake City Council member and congressional candidate Eva Lopez Chavez of unwanted "sexual" advances. Executive producer Emily Means, Salt Lake Tribune reporter Robert Gehrke, and City Cast Salt Lake contributor Cassie Bingham break down the story and its impacts. Plus, the book everyone is talking about takes inspo from Utah, and a members-only segment about ways to save money this weekend. 

Resources and references:

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The number one question we get asked is how to make friends in Utah. Your wish is our command! Host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and social media manager Molly Miloscia brainstorm some ways to meet new people in Salt Lake, whether you're a DINK, a SINK, or … a DILDO?

Here are even more ideas for making friends in Salt Lake City.

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Salt Lake, we need to talk about naughty dogs. Professional canine coach Mo Lynch Vashel trains host Ali Vallarta on what dog owners can do to protect their pets and neighbors from undue stress on trails, sidewalks, and breweries. 

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Utah Republican leaders are investigating a Supreme Court justice for alleged misconduct, after she was already cleared by a bipartisan commission. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and producer Ivana Martinez discuss the politics of the situation. Plus, Utahns' "broke behaviors" and local shoutouts.

Resources and references:

Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we are around for years to come. Get all the details and sign up at membership.citycast.fm.

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