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We make podcasts and newsletters that connect people with the cities they love.

City Cast Salt Lake

Tips and tricks by Salt Lake locals, for locals.

 in the country, and residents report more 

 than the national average. When you’re already struggling, it can be overwhelming to navigate how to seek help. Bookmark this article for a non-comprehensive list of important resources for mental health.

Connect with certified crisis counselors who provide support in suicide prevention and de-escalation. They also have a veterans and Spanish line.

Essentially, this is the local version of 988.

When calling for someone you know: 801-587-3000

Provides in-person support primarily for people within Salt Lake County.

Trained counselors provide confidential support to LGBTQ+ young people.

A service that provides crisis intervention through a live confidential chat. They’ll also send links to find support nearby. Call or download the app to chat.

Westminster University’s Community Clinic

Hours: Monday & Thursday 12:30-7 p.m., Tuesday & Wednesday 12:30-5 p.m.

Bookmark These Mental Health Resources

Salt Lake Life Hacks

 (can you say mou-in? ⛰) and our charming expressions (oh my heck). Here are some common phrases and terms that are telltale signs you’re from the beehive state.

This term is uniquely Utah and means to skip or ditch school. Did you do a lot of sluffing in your school days? Enjoy this piece of sluff history: In the Deseret News archives from 1993, you’ll find a disgruntled reader submission about the 

While others around the country may say, “How cute,” a lot of Utahns will use the word “for,” as in, “For cute!” According to a linguistics professor at Brigham Young University, this expression can also be heard 

 and originates from Scandinavian immigrants. While it’s becoming less common nowadays, you might still hear an older neighbor or relative saying it.

Our grid system and the way we say road names are an 

. Remember, everything is built around the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple. If you’re on 400 N. (aka Fourth North), you’re four blocks north of the temple.

This is a phrase I’ve noticed myself saying and wonder if any other Utahns use it. For example, if I’m out at a restaurant and someone asks if I want a refill or something, I’ll say, “That’s OK,” as in, “No.” But sometimes there’s confusion on the receiving end, like, “Do you mean yes or no?” IDK, does anyone else use “That’s OK” instead of “No?”

I put together a quiz to find out how Utahns say a few everyday things. Do you say sneakers or tennis shoes?

Take the quiz

Utahns have a very particular way of speaking. It’s in our accent (can you say mou-in? ⛰) and our charming expressions (oh my heck). Here are some common phrases and terms that are telltale signs you’re from the beehive state.

How To Speak Like a Utahn

Asking for a friend: Help! I’m looking to rent out a creative space with enough room to build furniture.

The Utah Arts Alliance offers accessible shared facilities for artists. Their space includes 35 studios, office space for nonprofits, dance studios, an events center, community gardens, and more.

Become a member for $75 a month to gain access to the tools, space, and equipment of the facility.

This nonprofit incorporates affordable housing and commercial space, including art studio rentals.

They offer a studio membership for artists, starting at $75 a month.

Do you know of any other art studio spaces for rent?

Send me an email

Creative Workspaces For Artists in Salt Lake

This year, the Salt Lake City Public Library is 

. Whether city or county, libraries are a treasure trove of resources. And we’re not just talking books here.

You can get free seeds to use for gardening. They operate on an honor system, so only take what you need and donate seeds when you can.

 or in-person. There are seven locations of the city library that offer seeds: Main, Marmalade, Day-Riverside, Sprague, Glendale, Chapman, and Anderson-Foothill. Additionally, they’re 

 on the last Saturday of the month through October.

The seed library generally runs from March-April at select locations, but they have sporadic events depending on availability. The next 

. Both the city and county libraries have creative offerings. Take advantage of their sewing machines or virtual reality equipment. Some other things you can find are 3D printers, sound booths for audio production, laser cutting, bike repair (tools and manuals), robotics, and Cricut machines 

 at SLC library are designed especially for caregivers of those with memory issues, like Alzheimer's or dementia. The kits include things like books, activities, fidget toys, and CDs to spark conversation and stimulate memories.

 at various library locations around the valley. Anyone under the age of 17 can use it for free or discounted admission to places like Clark Planetarium, UMOCA, the Natural History Museum, and more! If you get five stamps before August 18, you’ll get a ticket to the Kids Summer Passport Party.

Need to renew your passport? SLC library is an official passport application acceptance facility. It’s a first-come, first-served situation, so keep that in mind. If you need a photo, they can take one for $10, otherwise bring your own. At the moment there are 

, so get those applications in way before your vacation plans.

 has items like telescopes, tablets, and GoPros that you can borrow with your library card.

Whether city or county, libraries are a treasure trove of resources. And we’re not just talking books here.

Make the Most of Your Salt Lake Library Card

How To Make the Most of Your Salt Lake Library Card

One thing to know about booze in Utah is there are a lot of rules. Gastronomic SLC has an 

 but here are some of the highlights that you ought to know.

Our liquor licenses are built different. You won’t be able to go to a restaurant that serves alcohol and only order a drink — you’ll need to order food (at least one item) with it. If you find yourself at a restaurant that does allow you to only order a drink, they’re operating under 

, which means no one under 21 is allowed in.

Pours are metered at 1.5 ounces, and free pours are only allowed at private events. You can, however, have a mixed drink with a primary liquor and an extra ounce of an additional liquor, so long as the secondary pour comes from a bottle clearly marked “flavoring.” For example, you could have a drink with 2.5 ounces of vodka and gin if the gin is flavored.

 in the country at 0.05%, which includes not only cars but bikes, too. Plan ahead with a designated driver, public transit, rideshare, or take a hot girl walk.

. But have no fear, there’s a sneaky workaround. Head to your nearest distillery to buy a bottle. Also, a restaurant or bar is an option if you’re looking to buy wine. The only stipulation is you must consume a portion on the premise, but then they can reseal the bottle and you can take it to go.

P.S. For all the natural wine people out there, 

 to stay updated on the whens and wheres of new natural wine shipments.

One thing to know about booze in Utah is there are a lot of rules, but here are some of the highlights that you ought to know.

What You Should Know About Buying Alcohol In Utah

A Guide to Booze In Utah

 are unrivaled. If you’re hitting the trails, here are some simple rules to follow to keep the great outdoors great.

Remember that the outdoors is a shared space, and many people head to nature to find peace and quiet. Be respectful of others by being mindful of your noise level, whether you’re in a group or by yourself. If you listen to music, don’t blare it over a speaker — that’s what headphones are for.

Most trails will have signs showing who it’s for — hikers, bikers, horseback riders. The general rule of thumb: If you’re headed downhill, you should yield to those heading uphill, and everyone should yield to horses. When yielding on a busy trail:

Motorized vehicles yield to bikers, hikers, and horses.

Dogs aren’t allowed in protected watersheds. Watersheds supply Salt Lake City with drinking water, and it’s estimated that 

 comes from the canyons. Know before you go where your pup 

Also, be aware that some of the trails that allow dogs have unique leash restrictions. Millcreek Canyon, for example, only allows dogs off-leash on odd-numbered days.

), but I always try to say hello to people I pass on the trail. Or at least give them a courtesy nod or smile. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way. If that’s not enough, being friendly on the trail can also be an 

! If you get lost or hurt, the last person you saw could save your life.

Do your part in protecting our outdoor spaces by leaving no trace, which means that it should look exactly how you found it when you leave. Don’t carve your name on rocks or trees, 

, put your garbage in the proper receptacle (if available) or pack it out with you. And read up on how to “

Think you’re a trail expert? Test your knowledge and take the quiz by Trails Are Common Ground.

Pop quiz!

There’s no denying that Utah’s outdoor spaces are unrivaled. If you’re hitting the trails, here are some simple rules to follow to keep the great outdoors great.

Utah Trail Etiquette

Your Guide to Utah Trail Etiquette

We all do our best to eat our veggies and support our local economy as much as we can. Well, one way we can do both is through CSA boxes.

CSA stands for community supported agriculture and it’s just that, people directly supporting local farmers. Each season you can purchase a share and pick up a box of fresh produce each week. Many also offer add-ons like eggs or baked goods.

 (the right of people to control their own food systems) before and CSA is another way we can accomplish that. It moves us away from industrial agriculture, builds community, and supports biodiversity.

☑️ Sign up ASAP as each place only has a limited number of shares.

☑️ CSA boxes are a commitment. It’s quite a lot of veggies in one box (even a half share) so ask neighbors or friends to go in one. Also, make sure you can commit to picking it up each week. Most don’t deliver!

☑️It can be expensive and you usually have to pay upfront. Again, consider splitting with someone else to help with the costs.

 is a program by Salt Lake City’s International Rescue Committee. It offers 16 weeks (June 28-Oct. 11) of full share, half share, and quarter share (which is perfect for 1-2 person households). They accept SNAP/EBT payments and have a pre-packed or free choice model to choose from.

Pre-Packed: Works like a traditional CSA where boxes are pre-packed. You can 

 to find out what produce to expect that week.

Free Choice: Choose your own veggies with this option. Each week you’ll head to the Redwood Farm in West Valley to hand select what you take home.

 revitalizes urban spaces to build a thriving food culture in our community. Their season is 20 weeks of shares (that feeds roughly two to three people) from June 6-Oct. 19. They accept SNAP/EBT payments and also offer a sliding scale if needed.

A Guide to Salt Lake CSA Boxes

This is your friendly reminder that Mother’s Day is less than two weeks away (May 14!). Find a gift for Mom at one of these local shops:

 that houses a lot of local brands. Pick up a stained glass mushroom from 

. Topics range from cocktail-making to crafting cheese boards. They have online or in-person options.

. They both offer a variety of music genres, so you’re sure to find something that your gift recipient will love.

 has delicious soft serve, but they also have amazing merch, including beanies, sweatshirts, and socks. Bonus hot tip: They sell cool glass mugs and bags of coffee. If you ask nicely, they’ll probably even grind the beans for you.

Where’s your favorite spot to pick up a gift for a loved one?

A Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Whether by bike, bus, or train, how do you get around SLC? If you’re new to town, here are some tips on navigating our city’s modes of transportation.

Salt Lake City has made efforts to try to make our streets more pedestrian and bike friendly despite being a car-centric city. Salt Lake City’s 

, for example, is a pop-up concept that would add more biking and walking trails. And the 

If you haven’t committed to bike ownership quite yet, but want a more convenient way to get around downtown, you can grab a 

, about 30 minutes long, that will take you past all 60 murals of South Salt Lake Mural Fest.

Stay vigilant. Utah drivers are notoriously … 

. Assume that drivers aren’t looking out for you, because most of the time they aren’t.

The Utah Transit Authority is our public transportation system. They offer buses, light rail trains (TRAX), and commuter trains (FrontRunner).

The FrontRunner doesn't run on Sundays. And all UTA services don’t run later than 1 a.m.

 is a great deal for all Salt Lake City residents. It's $42 and you get a subsidized pass that gives you unlimited access to most of the modes of transit, and discounted access to FrontRunner.

: Johnnae Nardone of Sweet Streets makes the case for the 

 with her family of 6. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

Once you master the grid system, it’s fairly simple to navigate your way around. Everything is based off of the LDS temple in coordinates. When you’re at 2100 S., you are 21 blocks south of the temple. If you are at 600 E. you are six grid lines over, eastward, from the temple.

If you see this sign you can park here but you’ll have to pay, Monday-Friday between 8 a.m.- 8 p.m., for a maximum of 2 hours at $2.25/hr. You can pay at a pay station or through the 

. On Saturdays you can park for free for 2 hours and Sundays are free all day. If you have a hybrid or EV, 

When a light turns green, look both ways before you hit the gas. It’s likely there will be a car or two that runs the red light.

 Or at least car-light? City Cast Salt Lake host Ali Vallarta and lead producer Emily Means weigh out the 

Do you have a life hack for getting around Salt Lake?

Share your tips

Whether by bike, bus, or train, how do you get around Salt Lake City? If you’re new to town, here are some tips on navigating our city’s modes of transportation. 

Tips for Getting Around Salt Lake City

How to Navigate Around Salt Lake Like a Local

From navigating our grid system to not burning bridges, there are certain things you should know as a Salt Laker. On 

, producer Ivana Martinez and host Ali Vallarta lay down the unofficial rules of 

Ali says: “It’s one of our defining features. It’s your friend, not your foe. [It becomes easier] once you figure out that everything is built around the temple. If you're on South Temple, you're south of the temple. If you're on North Temple, you're north of the temple, and then all the numbers branch out from there. Suddenly it opens up a world of possibilities to call someone and be like, ‘I'm on 300 W. and 400 S.’”

Ivana says: “The city that we live in is very small and is often referred to as Small Lake City. You will run into so many people here in the city. The person you went on a date with and ghosted or your ex-employer. It’s really important that if you don’t leave on the best terms, at least leave on neutral terms.

“If you kiss your bartender, fully acknowledge that you will probably go back to the same bar. Hopefully, it was a good kiss and your bartender likes you, or you may have to find another bar.”

Ivana says: “I think one of the big no-nos is don't bring your music speaker and play loud music out hiking because people wanna enjoy the sounds of nature and birds chirping and stuff like that. And it's quite frankly rude to assume that people wanna listen to your EDM music. Bring your headphones for that.”

Ali says: “I don't roll up to Boston being like, ‘Do you know any Catholics?’ Like, why are you being so weird? Yes, a little under half of the population of our city is Mormon. But like any faith, there are all kinds of people, right?

“You’re gonna meet Mormons who are queer, who are tatted up, who are still spiritually connected to the faith, who maybe socially struggle with it. It’s a huge church. It’s headquartered here. Get over it.”

Ali says: “Salt Lake Utilities estimates that 40% of people in the Salt Lake Valley have a dog. There are 1.3 million people in Salt Lake County, which means there could be 400,000 dogs in this Valley. Please train your dog.

“No one thinks it's amusing that your dog is poorly behaved. There is nothing more terrifying than when you are running on a trail and some dog is bounding towards you, and the owner is waving and screaming 40 feet behind.”

Ivana says: “Don't wait to get your liquor because liquor stores here close early. If you are getting off [work] like most people at 5, and you have a night out that night, you got to book it to the liquor store by 7 o'clock. And you know that everyone and their mom is gonna be in that store. Go there early and know what you’re going to get. Then get in, get out, because parking is a nightmare.”

What are your cardinal rules for making it in this town?

From navigating our grid system to not burning bridges, there are certain things you should know as a Salt Laker. Here's how to survive and thrive in Small Lake City.