Harris County 101
4.7 million people live in Harris County, making it the third-most populous county in the country … and one run by powerful people with a multibillion dollar budget. But what does all that mean for the people who live here? Lisa talks with Texas Tribune reporter Zach Despart about everything — and everyone — Harris County, from County Judge Lina Hidalgo and the Commissioners Court, to election issues, tensions with the state, and how things are different in the unincorporated parts of the county.
Want to know more about what's happening in Houston today? Subscribe to our morning newsletter here.
We're also on Twitter, follow us here!
What's your hot take on Harris County? Call or text us at 713-489-6972 and let us know!
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Thank you Houston, we’ve loved the conversation we’ve been having with you for the past three years. City Cast Houston and Hey Houston have suspended operations. Our last newsletter and podcast episode was Oct. 24, 2025.
Latest Episodes
Our Final Goodbyes and What We’ve Learned About Houston
Since the beginning of City Cast Houston, every story we’ve shared on this podcast has shown us something new about this city. In this fi...
Tiny Things That Annoy Us About Houston
We’re in our final week of shows, so host Raheel Ramzanali is sharing one of his favorite episodes of all-time. We love H-Town, but when...
Where to Live: Houston vs. The Suburbs
It’s our final week of shows and we’re playing back some of our favorite episodes. Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis has today’s...
The Houston Roads to Avoid
It’s the final week of operations at City Cast Houston, and what better way to say goodbye then to share some of our all-time favorite ep...
Remember When We Won the World Series?
It’s the final week of operations at City Cast Houston, and what better way to say goodbye then to share some of our all-time favorite ep...
Saying Goodbye to City Cast Houston. Plus, Other Major News From The Week
Mayor Whitmire is breaking his silence about the removal of the iconic rainbow crosswalk. Plus, why is Ken Paxton suing to try and shut d...
Can Houston’s Theater Scene Rival Broadway?!
Believe it or not, but Houston’s theater scene is one of the best in the nation. So, why don’t we get the respect we deserve?! Host Rahee...
How Houston Restaurants Are Surviving One of Its Biggest Economic Downturns
It’s been a tough year for restaurants in Houston with so many popular places closing down. But, what’s being done by the restaurants to...
Why Our Bail System Should Matter to Every Houstonian
Why is Harris County’s bail system always brought up by state leaders? Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to John Wayne Ferguson, reporter...
Gov. Abbott Targets Rainbow Crosswalks, Medical Center Workforce Reduction, and Airport Delays
Why is Governor Abbott forcing Houston to remove the iconic rainbow crosswalks in Montrose? Plus, are we going to see flight delays acros...
