Best Puzzle Hub Podcasts (2025)

1
Is Flying From SLC Airport Still Safe? 21:51

5h ago21:51

21:51

Harrowing footage of commercial planes nearly colliding or landing belly up have made flying even more anxiety-inducing. Director of airport operations Treber Andersen, tells host Ali Vallarta about SLC International’s emergency plan and the Swiss cheese analogy of safety. Related listening: What would it take to make SLC International a world-clas…

1
National Parks a Mess? Try These Lookalikes. 28:18

1d ago28:18

28:18

April and May are the best months to visit Utah’s five national parks, but the firing crisis might get in the way of a good time. Host Ali Vallarta and outdoor enthusiast Shireen Ghorbani create lookalike itineraries for each of the Mighty Five, promising a stress-free time with similar views. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the …

1
Fluoride-Free SLC? Utahns & God, Neighborhood Bars 35:19

2d ago35:19

35:19

How many Utahns believe in God these days? Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means find religious showdowns in the SLC skyline. Plus, thrilling game wins, new liquor laws, and farewell fluoride? Resources and references: Fluoride will be banned from Utah’s water supplies — but only if Cox signs this bill [Salt Lake Tribune] Survey show…

1
Your Guide to March 2025 in Salt Lake 30:30

3d ago30:30

30:30

Whether you think it’s winter or spring (controversial), March will keep you busy in Salt Lake City! Host Ali Vallarta, newsletter editor Terina Ria, and producer Ivana Martinez bring you a guide to making the most of it, from discounted spa treatments to mini dog racing and spotting bison. And if you’re excited about Antelope Island, you’ll love o…

1
Avenging Julia Reagan, Cold Plunge Coffee, Frog Eye Salad Nostalgia 32:25

6d ago32:25

32:25

Billboard queen Julia Reagan is making headlines again, as her husband seeks to avenge her death through a new lawsuit. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means discuss the details and consider the impacts of Utah’s nursing shortage. Plus, cold plunge coffee coming to Central City, a Jazzy take on a Utah classic, and unplugging your pho…

1
Should Utah Manage Our National Parks? 23:03

7d ago23:03

23:03

Long lines already plague Utah’s national parks. Pile on the Trump administration’s cuts to park staff and funding, and you’ve got a recipe for a chaotic busy season. So, what’s the solution? Host Ali Vallarta asks Rep. Steve Eliason, R-Sandy, about his big idea for Utah to co-manage the Mighty Five. Related listening: Learn about Utah’s push to ma…

1
A Bandwagoner’s Guide to Utah Hockey Hype 30:06

8d ago30:06

30:06

Salt Lake City is hyped on the Utah Hockey Club’s inaugural season, with sold-out games and jerseys flying off the shelves. So now that Salt Lake is officially a hockey town, how will it change the city’s culture? COMMONS podcast host and journalist Arshy Mann joins host Ali Vallarta to break down what opportunities and baggage the NHL is bringing …

1
SLC Streets in Jeopardy? Aritzia in Utah, Hoops With City Cast 36:16

9d ago36:16

36:16

State lawmakers are scheming again, and this time they’re targeting SLC streets. Host Ali Vallarta and Emily Means discuss a bill that puts bike lanes and pedestrian promenades in jeopardy. Plus, Fashion Place Mall gets trendier, a great bill, and the Holy War this weekend. Related listening: Find out how state lawmakers want to police Salt Lake Ci…

1
Why SLC Bars Are Worried About Fake IDs 17:34

10d ago17:34

17:34

We gave SugarHouse Pub a hard time when they were shut down for serving minors at their bar. But now, we’re hearing there’s more to the story. Utah liquor lawyer Tanner Lenart joins host Ali Vallarta to talk about how fake IDs have gotten so good and what happens if you get caught with one. Background listening: What you need to know about what hap…

1
SLC's New Police Chief, 7th Best Capital City, New Central City Restaurant 30:10

13d ago30:10

30:10

What does SLC Mayor Mendenhall’s pick for police chief say about her vision for policing? Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means discuss. Plus, an opportunity for parks lovers, and is Salt Lake really the 7th best capital city? Background: Last week, SLCPD Chief Mike Brown announced he was stepping down. Become a member of City Cast S…

1
What To Do When Your Dog Dies 20:47

14d ago20:47

20:47

Salt Lake City has more households with dogs than children. We don't want to imagine life without our furry friends, but do you know what to do if your dog dies? Wendy Sorensen of Forever Loved Pets joins host Ali Vallarta to answer frequently asked questions about the next steps and how to prepare to say goodbye. Become a member of City Cast Salt …

1
What’s Next for Unions After Legislative Attacks? 19:48

15d ago19:48

19:48

Two huge union stories have dominated local news this year. Whether you picketed with the PC ski patrollers or protested Utah’s anti-union bill, the energy around organized labor is palpable. But it hasn’t always been that way. University of Utah labor historian Matt Basso joins host Ali Vallarta to explain the ebb and flow of union popularity thro…

1
How To Tip in Salt Lake These Days 22:36

16d ago22:36

22:36

The cost of living has gone up, and boy, have our wallets felt it. But in a world where tipping is a standard practice, how much should we be adding to the tab? Alexi Fisher, owner of the Hammered Copper bar service and Cocktail Collective, joins host Ali Vallarta to guide us through the do’s and don’ts of tipping and explain what it would take to …

1
State Police Takeover? X Games in SLC, Crazy Rents in Sugar House 38:56

20d ago38:56

38:56

Big cop news in Salt Lake City this week: Police Chief Mike Brown is stepping down, and the Legislature wants to send in state police to tackle crime and homelessness. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means connect the dots and question why the state is so obsessed with the city. Plus, the X-Games are coming to town, viral FrontRunner…

1
Your Small Lake City Dating Stories 27:49

21d ago27:49

27:49

If you’ve ever been single in this town, you’ve likely had some memorable Small Lake City dating experiences. So, this Valentine’s Day we honor our Salt Lake neighbors who have put themselves out there by accidentally dating their friend’s therapist or a literal clown. Doug Fabrizio, host of KUER’s RadioWest, joins host Ali Vallarta for a dramatic …

1
SLC Restaurants Arriving in 2025 23:20

22d ago23:20

23:20

It’s another year of good eating in Salt Lake City, and our food scene is only getting bigger and better, baby! Stuart Melling of Gastronomic SLC joins host Ali Vallarta to dish about hot new restaurants and food trends we should expect. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to support our work and help make sure we’re aro…

1
The $30M SLC Schools Lost to Developers 23:14

23d ago23:14

23:14

Salt Lakers have been side-eyeing the Salt Lake School Board after closing four local elementary schools, and then asking for $730 million on our November ballots. But is there more to the story? SLC school board member Ashley Anderson joins host Ali Vallarta to explain why some education funding is being redirected for development projects. Become…

1
Utah’s Big Anti-Union Bill, Explained 20:58

24d ago20:58

20:58

Despite opposition from, well, just about everyone, Utah lawmakers passed a bill that bans collective bargaining for public sector labor unions. Salt Lake City Fire Dept. union president Zach Jeppson tells host Ali Vallarta about its impacts and why he thinks the Legislature dug their heels in. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the…

1
Millcreek Mayor Takes On ICE, Sugar House Pub’s Fate, One Good Bill 34:57

28d ago34:57

34:57

A local ICE interaction is under scrutiny, and now local politicians are addressing the elephant in the room. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means break down highlights from Mayor Jenny Wilson’s State of the County address. Plus, Sugar House Pub’s tentative comeback, a business opportunity, and a good bill. Resources and references:…

1
Where To Run in SLC 23:01

29d ago23:01

23:01

So, you’re thinking about signing up for the Salt Lake City Marathon. Or maybe just the half marathon. OK, maybe the 5K is all you’ve got in you. No problem! Seasoned runners Shireen Ghorbani and Bryant Heath join host and newbie runner Ali Vallarta to share great local routes, plus some tips and tricks for hitting the pavement. This episode origin…

1
Next Steps for Saving the Great Salt Lake 21:33

30d ago21:33

21:33

The only way to save the Great Salt Lake is by growing less alfalfa, according to a new report. But how helpful is that message in bringing farmers to the table? Stewardship Utah Great Salt Lake policy associate Chandler Rosenberg makes the case to host Ali Vallarta for why we should cool it on villainizing our most water-intensive crop. Resources …

1
Deportation Claims & Housing, Counting Unhoused Utahns, Competitive Puzzling 36:19

1M ago36:19

36:19

Housing affordability is the talk of the town, but home prices could get more expensive if deportation efforts grow. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means discuss how state leaders' goals could be hindered by their own actions. Plus, warm temps in the valley, Point-In-Time Count takeaways, and a competitive game night. Resources and …

1
What ICE Can and Can’t Do (Legally) in Utah 28:34

1M ago28:34

28:34

Local reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers — A.K.A. ICE — in Salt Lake are causing confusion and fear among community members. Aaron Welcher with the ACLU of Utah tells host Ali Vallarta what you should do if you see or are detained by ICE, and how their power differs from local police. Visit ACLU of Utah’s resource hub for more …

1
‘State of the City’ Takeaways, Live at Trolley Square? New Shake Shack 35:11

1M ago35:11

35:11

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall gave her State of the City address this week, and she said to expect more policing and a plan for the Ballpark. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means give the highlights and their analysis. Plus, living at Trolley Square, your lawmaker’s star sign, and breaking pizza news. Resources and references…

1
Your Guide to February 2025 in Salt Lake 29:02

1M ago29:02

29:02

February is a month for love, surviving the winter doldrums, and … bull riding? Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and Hey Salt Lake newsletter editor Terina Ria bring you a guide to what to expect and how to make the most of this month, from coffee shop DJs to unleashing your inner cowboy. Plus, listen to this episode to learn more…

1
Will Utah Be the ‘Nation’s Nuclear Hub’? 24:43

1M ago24:43

24:43

Senate President Stuart Adams said Utah needs to be “the nation’s nuclear hub.” Host Ali Vallarta asks Dr. Danielle Endres, director of the environmental humanities program at the University of Utah, what it would mean to have a nuclear power plant in our state. Learn about geothermal energy, another resource Utah is exploring. We’re doing a survey…

1
Legislature vs. Labor Unions, Sundance Vibes, New Art on State 31:59

1M ago31:59

31:59

Lawmakers have labor unions in their crosshairs this legislative session. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means connect dots up at the Capitol. Plus, the vibes at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, new public art on State Street, and an all-time comedy at the Broadway. Resources and references: ‘No better than working at 7-Eleven’: …

1
Funding Public School or Home School? 26:15

1M ago26:15

26:15

The Republican National Party has a big agenda for schools: closing the Department of Education and sending it back to the states. Meanwhile, the Utah legislature is slowly chipping away at public school funding. Utah State Board of Education member Sarah Reale joins host Ali Vallarta to talk about what’s in store for teachers, students and public …

1
ICE in SLC? No Name Hockey Club, One-Man Star Wars 32:24

1M ago32:24

32:24

President Trump’s deportation policies are hitting Salt Lake, just as residents report immigration enforcement sightings. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means discuss what local officials, like the SLC School District, have said they will and won’t do. Plus, the Utah Hockey Club keeps searching for a name, a neighborhood org gets th…

1
Sundance Tips and Tricks for Locals 28:48

1M ago28:48

28:48

The 2025 Sundance Film Festival starts today, and if you don’t have tickets or tons of money to spend, we’ve got you. Former staffers Emily Samore and host Ali Vallarta share insider tips for accessing screenings, spotting celebs, and taking advantage of the fest as a local. Resources and references: Local Lens Beyond Film Films discussed: “Omaha,"…

1
How To Stay Active When It’s So Cold Outside 29:10

1M ago29:10

29:10

Freezing temps, inversion, and ski pass prices make it hard to get off the couch this winter. But there are lots of ways to move your body and lift your spirits while we wait for spring to arrive. Host Ali Vallarta and newsletter editor Terina Ria share a few ideas for beating the winter blues, from cheap class deals to local social clubs and indoo…

1
How To Have Better Sex Ed in Utah 32:58

1M ago32:58

32:58

Utah’s sex education syllabus was given a D- grade by a national sexual health council. So, what does good sex ed look like? Ocean Candler, a Colorado-based sexual health expert, joins host Ali Vallarta to talk about ways to discuss sexual health at home or at school, from porn to pleasure and everything in between. Here are some resources for pare…

1
More Policing in SLC, Lock the Clock, Crumbl Deodorant 37:03

2M ago37:03

37:03

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall unveiled a 50-page public safety plan responding to the state’s threat of intervention. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means breakdown the highlights and their big takeaways. Plus, Crumbl deodorant, a clean slate opportunity, and National Popcorn Day. Resources and references: Read the mayor’s pu…

1
Birthday Freebies in Salt Lake 29:14

2M ago29:14

29:14

It’s host Ali Vallarta’s birthday! In the spirit of celebrating, executive producer Emily Means and Ali assembled a guide to the free stuff you can get around town on your birthday. Plus, creative ideas for affordable celebrations at all ages and stages. Enjoy Ali’s friend Renee’s spreadsheet of Salt Lake Birthday Freebies. This year we’re giving $…

1
How Hunters and Hikers Can Coexist in the Avenues 23:09

2M ago23:09

23:09

The Upper Avenues are well-known for their expensive views, but did you know they’re also hunting grounds? Perry Hall, chair of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Utah Chapter, joins host Ali Vallarta to tell us how hunters, hikers, and dogs can safely coexist in our city’s backyard. This episode originally aired on Jan. 3, 2024. Learn more about …

1
Public Lands Lawsuit Rejected, 2034 Olympics at Risk, Pet Adoptions 31:50

2M ago31:50

31:50

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Utah’s public lands lawsuit. Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means make sense of the surprising decision and what’s next for the state’s fight against the feds. Plus, Salt Lake’s 2034 Olympics could be at risk, a pet volunteer opportunity, and goodbye to the state’s superintendent. Resources and refere…

1
Utah Wants Geothermal Energy. What the Heck Is It? 26:30

2M ago26:30

26:30

Utah lawmakers have continued to prop up coal in our state, but now Gov. Spencer Cox is eyeing another energy option: geothermal. So … what the heck is it? And can it cause earthquakes?? Dr. Joseph Moore, principal researcher at Utah FORGE, joins host Ali Vallarta to demystify this renewable resource. Resources and references: What's in Cox's $30.6…

1
Skiers Sue Vail, Immigration Crackdown, New SLC Trash Day 37:19

2M ago37:19

37:19

The Park City ski patrol strike is finally over, so what’s in their contract? Executive producer Emily Means and host Ali Vallarta discuss the union’s wins and Vail’s losses. Plus, a slew of immigration bills just dropped, hut-to-hut hiking, and an important public notice. Resources and references: Skiers file class action lawsuit against Vail Reso…

1
You’ve Heard of Utah Militias. What Other Extremist Groups Are Here? 21:58

2M ago21:58

21:58

We may think of extremism as a national issue (think Jan. 6 insurrection), but new reporting from ProPublica shows how right-wing militias are operating in Utah. Chase Thomas, senior policy advisor at Better Utah Institute, joins host Ali Vallarta to talk about a new tool that tracks these groups and the next steps for addressing it. Resources and …

1
What To Expect Around Homelessness in 2025 37:22

2M ago37:22

37:22

Homelessness is at a record high across the country, and Utah leaders have eyes on how Salt Lake City is handling the issue. Host Ali Vallarta, executive producer Emily Means, and Rep. Tyler Clancy, R-Provo, discuss local headlines and set expectations for homeless-related bills this upcoming legislation session. Resources and references: After pro…

1
The Best Coffee in Salt Lake City 22:38

2M ago22:38

22:38

Where’s the best coffee in Salt Lake City? Rose Park resident Andy Moray visited every coffee shop in town last year — more than 70 of them. Today, he joins host Ali Vallarta to share his favorites and lessons learned from his quest. Check out Andy’s spreadsheet to discover new coffee shops. This year we’re giving $1,500 worth of gift cards to one …

1
How Utah Lawmakers Could Change Your Life in 2025 31:07

2M ago31:07

31:07

Senators and representatives from around Utah will convene at the Capitol from Jan. 21 to March 7 for the annual legislative session. What new laws or programs will come of it? Fox 13 politics reporter Ben Winslow sets expectations for host Ali Vallarta about everything from the Great Salt Lake to revenge on Sugar House Pub and the Utah Supreme Cou…

1
Ski Patrol Strike, What’s ‘Out’ in 2025, Big Job Opportunity 41:43

2M ago41:43

41:43

Why did hundreds of Park City ski patrollers go on strike? Host Ali Vallarta and executive producer Emily Means talk about their demands and the impacts. Plus, local “ins and outs” for 2025, ancient bones, and become the next South Salt Lake city council member. Resources and references: Park City ski patrol ‘disappointed’ in Vail counter offer as …

1
Your Guide to January 2025 in Salt Lake 32:46

2M ago32:46

32:46

New year, new rendezvous! This is your guide to January in Salt Lake City. Host Ali Vallarta, Hey Salt Lake editor Terina Ria, and producer Ivana Martinez assemble a lineup of restaurants to try, local spectacles, and ideas for getting outside (without a thousand-dollar ski pass). And if you are headed to the movies this month, don’t miss our episo…

1
Best and Worst Places To Take Out-of-Towners This Week 25:22

2M ago25:22

25:22

Which of Salt Lake City’s tourist attractions are worth bringing your family to this holiday season? From Temple Square to Park City Main Street, TikTok’s Queen of SLC Kendall Rodriguez and host Ali Vallarta separate the must-sees from the avoid-at-all-costs. Plus, what’s in it for locals? This episode originally aired on July 25, 2024. Become a me…

1
Tan France’s Hottest Salt Lake Takes 28:12

2M ago28:12

28:12

There’s nothing more fabulously Salt Lake than a Tan France sighting. The Queer Eye star has called Utah home for almost two decades — so we decided to test him on his local credentials. Tan joins host Ali Vallarta to dish on the best and worst our town has to offer and the most Salt Lake thing about him. This episode originally aired on June 10, 2…

1
Why Are Utahns Obsessed With Disney? 25:13

2M ago25:13

25:13

There are several things Utahns are known for, but should we be adding “Disney adults” to the list? Jodi Eichler-Levine, religion and culture professor at Lehigh University, joins host Ali Vallarta to analyze why Utahns relate so strongly to the Walt Disney experience and how it became its own sort of religion. This episode originally aired on Aug.…

1
What’s ‘The Point’? Sundance Celebs, a Local Vinyl Legend 36:34

3M ago36:34

36:34

The Point development in southern Salt Lake County is finally seeing some action after Gov. Spencer Cox and legislators broke ground this week. Executive producer Emily Means and host Ali Vallarta discuss what’s in store for the state’s 600-acre project. Plus, possible celebrity sightings at Sundance, a volunteer opportunity, and honoring a legenda…

1
Did We Visit All 511 Parks in Salt Lake County? 26:14

3M ago26:14

26:14

Host Ali Vallarta made a resolution this year to visit every park in Salt Lake County. As we approach the end of 2024, we have to ask: Did she do it? Ali joins executive producer Emily Means to share insights from her quest, including picks for the best dog parks, date spots, and public bathrooms. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s …

1
How Utah Women Dominate Reality TV 28:01

3M ago28:01

28:01

The Washington Post called 2024 “the year of Mormon women,” and we could credit our local reality TV stars for that. KUER politics reporter Saige Miller joins host Ali Vallarta to analyze Salt Lake’s big year on the small screen, from reality unions to what the future brings. Become a member of City Cast Salt Lake today! It’s the best way to suppor…

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