
City Cast DC
City Cast is the daily, local audio companion you knew DC needed. Washingtonians are gritty, proud, and resilient — necessary qualities for a community facing issues that range from an affordability crisis to the fight for statehood to the movement for racial justice… and useful qualities for a region full of whip-smart people, dynamic culture, and constant change. Washingtonians are deeply passionate about our city, whose story is still being written, and City Cast DC is here to tell it.Every weekday morning, our hosts Michael Schaffer and Bridget Todd will engage people from all over the eight wards in conversation about DC’s crises and its beauty, both literal and figurative. It’ll have the feel of eavesdropping on an energetic and informative coffee shop chat, except that with City Cast DC, consider this your official invitation to listen in.
Latest episodes

May 13, 2025 • 31min
1 in 5 Residents Consider Leaving DC
The Trump administration is already deeply impacting DC’s way of life. And now, a new Washington Post poll says a huge portion of the local population is considering leaving DC altogether as a result. The Post’s Olivia George is here to put voices behind the data.
Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.
Learn more about the sponsors of this May 13th episode:
Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST
Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off
Williamstown Theatre Festival
Folger Shakespeare Library
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 13, 2025 • 0sec
You Might Also Like: On Purpose with Jay Shetty
Introducing Vanessa Van Edwards: Stop Overthinking Every Social Interaction! (Use THESE Cues to Be Liked, Respected, and Build Confidence in Every Conversation) from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay ShettyWhat usually holds you back from starting a conversation? Can you remember a time you avoided someone out of fear of saying the wrong thing? Jay sits down with behavioral researcher and bestselling author Vanessa Van Edwards for a powerful conversation that blends science, honesty, and so many surprising moments. Vanessa, who refers to herself as a “recovering awkward person,” shares how her biggest social struggles became the driving force behind her mission to crack the code on human connection. Together, Jay and Vanessa dive into the fascinating world of charisma, exploring the 97 cues, from eye contact to tone of voice, that quietly shape how we’re seen and understood. Vanessa breaks down why so many of us feel overlooked or underestimated—and introduces “signal amplification bias,” a concept that explains why the signals you think you’re sending might not be landing the way you expect. Vanessa shows us how confidence isn’t always something you’re born with but something you can build, with intention and awareness. The conversation goes even deeper as they unpack the tricky balance between warmth and competence, especially for women in the workplace, and how vulnerability isn’t a weakness, but often your greatest strength. They explore how to create those magic “me too” moments that form instant connections, spot the hidden red flags in communication, and let go of the need to be liked by everyone in order to be truly seen by the right people. In this interview, you'll learn: How to Make a Great First Impression Without Saying a Word How to Break the Ice with a Simple “Hey” How to Balance Warmth and Competence in Any Conversation How to Create Connection Using “Me Too” Moments How to Exit a Conversation Gracefully (Without Offending Anyone) How to Spot a Liar Using Body Language and Micro-Expressions How to Ask Better Questions That Spark Real Conversations How to Recognize the Difference Between Charisma and Manipulation Whether you struggle with social anxiety, want to level up your leadership presence, or are just tired of surface-level small talk, this episode is packed with practical tools and uplifting wisdom to help you connect with more authenticity and power. With Love and Gratitude, Jay Shetty Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here. Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there! What We Discuss: 00:00 Intro 00:51 From Awkward to Empowered: Overcoming Social Anxiety 02:43 How Do You Really Want People to See You? 06:44 Why Aren’t Your First Impressions Landing? 10:01 Why They’re Not Getting Your Signals (And What to Do About It) 13:33 Want to Be More Attractive? Try Being More Available 15:40 One Simple “Hey” That Can Spark a New Connection 19:16 Your Vibe Teaches People How to Treat You 22:06 Speak with Power: Unlock Your Full Vocal Power 23:47 3 Conversation Starters That Actually Work 29:49 Making Friends Doesn’t Have to Be Hard 31:17 Why Compliments Alone Don’t Build Connection 33:30 Break the Ice Without Sounding Like Everyone Else 38:36 Stop Trying to Be Interesting, Do This Instead 40:48 The Art of a Smooth and Respectful Exit 44:32 Use These Nonverbal Cues to Steer the Conversation 47:41 Spot Inauthentic Behavior Before It Costs You 54:28 Why People-Pleasing Feels Safer But Actually Holds You Back 57:48 How to Tell If Someone’s Lying (Without Saying a Word) 01:00:04 When Narcissists Feel Like the Most Charismatic People 01:03:46 Want to Really Get to Know Someone? Take a Road Trip 01:04:45 How Dopamine Makes You More Memorable 01:08:23 Every Answer Can Be a Gateway to Connection 01:10:51 How Asking Better Questions Inspires Growth 01:13:10 Discover Your Social Battery: Introvert, Extrovert, or Ambivert? 01:15:10 You Might Be an Ambivert and That’s a Superpower 01:19:07 The Two Ways Friendships Evolve Over Time 01:22:30 Choose Friends Who Inspire Awe 01:25:20 The Double Standard Faced by Highly Competent Women 01:33:09 Before You Make That Connection, Ask Yourself This 01:34:34 Life’s Too Short for Shallow Connections, Find Your People 01:36:29 Vanessa on Final Five Episode Resources: Vanessa Van Edwards | Website Vanessa Van Edwards | Instagram Vanessa Van Edwards | X Vanessa Van Edwards | YouTube Vanessa Van Edwards | TikTok Vanessa Van Edwards | Facebook Vanessa Van Edwards | LinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

May 12, 2025 • 27min
Why Trump Picked a Fox News Icon as DC's Top Prosecutor
At the end of last week, there was a big switcheroo in an office that’s really important to local DC: The US Attorney, which in our city also acts as the local prosecutor. Donald Trump abruptly pulled the nomination of Ed Martin, the January 6 firebrand who’d been the most controversial appointee in memory. But the replacement was also quite a shock: Jeanine Pirro, the bomb-throwing Fox News personality. What does this mean for us? NBC4’s Ted Oberg covers the office and he’s here to explain.
Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.
Learn more about the sponsors of this May 12th episode:
Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST
Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off
Williamstown Theatre Festival
Folger Shakespeare Library
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 9, 2025 • 31min
ICE at DC Restaurants, Tourism Struggles, and Nats Park Taste Test
We’re talking about ICE raids at restaurants, we’re talking about what plummeting international tourism means for DC, and we’ve got some results from City Cast’s highly unscientific Nats Park taste test. Plus, our members-only fourth topic: The strange story of the LGBT exhibit the Smithsonian just canceled.
Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.
Learn more about the sponsors of this May 9th episode:
Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST
PaintCare
The Pew Charitable Trusts
Nace Law Group
Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.
Gala Theatre
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 8, 2025 • 25min
Is Bowser's New Growth Plan Too Pro-Development?
DC’s Mayor is slowly rolling out her budget — and it’s all about trying to brace the city for the unprecedented Trump-era challenges that are hitting Washington’s biggest employer, the government. For Muriel Bowser, the answer seems to be giving business a freer hand to do what it wants. Until recently, that would have been a nonstarter for the DC Council. Axios’ Cuneyt Dil is here to explain why it could be different this time.
Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.
Learn more about the sponsors of this May 8th episode:
Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST
PaintCare
The Pew Charitable Trusts
Nace Law Group
Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 7, 2025 • 34min
Mayor Bowser Wants to Repeal DC’s Tipped Minimum Wage ... Again
Mayor Bowser announced Monday that she wants to repeal initiative 82, the hugely popular DC plan to eliminate the tipped minimum wage. Three out of four voters were in favor in 2022, so how do people feel about the mayor potentially overriding them? Jessica Sidman from Washingtonian is here to explain why this is happening now and how all the stakeholders feel about it.
Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.
If you enjoyed today's interview with District Bridges' Executive Director, Brianne Dornbush, learn more here.
Learn more about the sponsors of this May 7th episode:
Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST
PaintCare
The Pew Charitable Trusts
Nace Law Group
Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 6, 2025 • 30min
Best Free Things to Do in DC This Summer
Let's face it - a lot of us in the DMV area are tightening our belts in preparation for an uncertain economic climate. BUT that doesn't mean you can't still have a good time, especially with the nice weather returning. Be sure to mark your calendars because we have your guide for fun FREE things to do in DC this summer.
https://dc.citycast.fm/dc-life-hacks/the-best-washington-dc-birthday-freebies-discounts-deals
https://dc.citycast.fm/best/the-best-free-workouts-in-dc
Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.
Learn more about the sponsors of this May 6th episode:
Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST
PaintCare
The Pew Charitable Trusts
Nace Law Group
Silver Mirror Facial Bar - Use CITYCAST30 for $30 off your first facial
Cozy Earth - Use code COZYDC for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.
Gala Theatre
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 5, 2025 • 28min
The Conversation No One Wants to Have About Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton
Ike Allen, a Washingtonian reporter, shares his firsthand insights from time spent with Eleanor Holmes Norton, D.C.'s longtime representative. At 87, she faces scrutiny about her effectiveness and ability to fight for the district's needs. They discuss her remarkable 35-year legacy, the challenges of advocating for D.C. statehood, and the pressing political landscape. Allen highlights the concerns from constituents regarding her leadership amidst growing demands for political change, raising important questions about the future of D.C. representation.

May 2, 2025 • 36min
Council vs RFK Stadium Deal, Ed Martin vs Weed, and an Exclusive MAGA Club
We’re talking about the RFK deal, Ed Martin’s moves against a DC medical-marijuana dispensary, and an ultra-pricey new private club for Trump allies. Plus, our special members-only fourth topic: The investigation of the DCA crash.
Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.
Learn more about the sponsors of this May 2nd episode:
Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST
District Bridges
Gala Theatre
Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden Tour
Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 1, 2025 • 29min
Your Guide to May 2025 in DC
May is one of the BEST times in DC. We have that narrow window of perfect springtime weather. There’s a lot going on and people actually seem…excited to be out and about.
To help you stave off FOMO, the City Cast DC gang has your guide to making the most of May in DC, including a Hong Kong-style night market, a flower festival, and camping recommendations.
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 community.
For even more tips on how to make the most of May in DC, check out Hey DC’s take on what to do this month.
City Cast DC’s guide to May is made possible by our awesome sponsor, District Bridges. And get more from City Cast DC when you become a City Cast DC Neighbor. You’ll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members-only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm.
Learn more about the sponsors of this May 1st episode:
Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST
District Bridges
Gala Theatre
Capitol Hill Restoration Society House & Garden TourInterested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices