Shows
Streets Dept PodcastPlaying Around with R. Eric ThomasThere’s truly no one like R. Eric Thomas. A television writer, playwright, bestselling author, and the writer of a nationally syndicated advice column and weekly humor newsletter, Eric’s a man of fierce observation and stirring wit. Oh, and he was literally the very first guest on the Streets Dept Podcast back in 2017. In this episode, host Conrad Benner catches up with Eric and talks about the state of the world, managing a creative career while cultivating boredom, Beyonce, and the art of storytelling across various mediums to center queer history and experiences. Go to R...
2026-04-211h 02Streets Dept PodcastPlaying Around with R. Eric ThomasThere’s truly no one like R. Eric Thomas. A television writer, playwright, bestselling author, and the writer of a nationally syndicated advice column and weekly humor newsletter, Eric’s a man of fierce observation and stirring wit. Oh, and he was literally the very first guest on the Streets Dept Podcast back in 2017. In this episode, host Conrad Benner catches up with Eric and talks about the state of the world, managing a creative career while cultivating boredom, Beyonce, and the art of storytelling across various mediums to center queer history and experiences. Go to R...
2026-04-211h 02
Broad Street Review, The PodcastBSR_S10E34 - Conrad Benner - Streets DeptCelebrating 15 Years of Public Art and Community Engagement - A Conversation with Conrad BennerJoin us as we explore the vibrant art scene in Philadelphia with Conrad Benner, founder of Streets Department, a platform dedicated to documenting and promoting public art for over 15 years. Discover insights about community-led projects, the impact of murals, and the future of urban art and media.Timestamps:00:04 - Introduction and overview of Philadelphia’s thriving art scene01:17 - Conrad’s role and daily work with Streets Department02:30 - The podcast journey and collaborations with WHYY...
2026-04-2000 min
City Cast PhillyHow to See Art Everywhere in PhiladelphiaPhilly is known as the mural capital of the world. But murals are just one form of public art – and our city is teeming with many more. Through his blog Streets Dept, lifelong Philadelphian Conrad Benner has made it his mission to help denizens notice the art all around them – from wheatpaste posters to stickers slapped on the back of PPA signs to graffiti art and more. Now, Conrad is re-launching the Streets Dept podcast, talking with the artists, thinkers, lawmakers, and ordinary people who shape Philly’s culture. Host Trenae Nuri talks with Conrad about how he’s built a...
2026-04-1432 min
Streets Dept PodcastEditor’s Table: April '26Welcome to our first monthly Editor’s Table episode, where we offer behind-the-scenes conversations about podcasting, independent media, Philly, and the arts! Every month at the Table, you’ll hear Streets Dept founder/podcast host Conrad Benner, lead contributor Eric Dale, and podcast producer Alex Lewis. This month we talk about why re-launching the podcast at this moment makes a ton of sense, and how listener support is more crucial than ever. We learn more about the work, interests, and passions of Eric and Alex. And we remember a Philly street art legend who we recent...
2026-04-1441 minStreets Dept PodcastEditor’s Table: April '26Welcome to our first monthly Editor’s Table episode, where we offer behind-the-scenes conversations about podcasting, independent media, Philly, and the arts! Every month at the Table, you’ll hear Streets Dept founder/podcast host Conrad Benner, lead contributor Eric Dale, and podcast producer Alex Lewis. This month we talk about why re-launching the podcast at this moment makes a ton of sense, and how listener support is more crucial than ever. We learn more about the work, interests, and passions of Eric and Alex. And we remember a Philly street art legend who we recent...
2026-04-1441 min
Streets Dept PodcastSaving Science with Sarah McAnultyWith science funding under threat and the internet full of misinformation, we have a hero among us: Sarah McAnulty.In this episode, host Conrad Benner talks with Sarah about the challenges and opportunities of this moment. Not only is Sarah arguably one of our country’s most successful science communicators, but she’s also a street artist. And really, the two for her go hand-in-hand. In her conversation with Conrad, Sarah gives some really practical advice for how to help increase biodiversity in your town or city–and why that’s very important for supporting a future for us a...
2026-04-0740 minStreets Dept PodcastSaving Science with Sarah McAnultyWith science funding under threat and the internet full of misinformation, we have a hero among us: Sarah McAnulty.In this episode, host Conrad Benner talks with Sarah about the challenges and opportunities of this moment. Not only is Sarah arguably one of our country’s most successful science communicators, but she’s also a street artist. And really, the two for her go hand-in-hand. In her conversation with Conrad, Sarah gives some really practical advice for how to help increase biodiversity in your town or city–and why that’s very important for supporting a future for us a...
2026-04-0740 min
Streets Dept PodcastThe Streets Dept Podcast is BackAfter a four year hiatus, Conrad is back to host more conversations with the creative minds shaping the world around us. Learn how you can support the podcast and get access to bonus content and events by visiting: Patreon.com/StreetsDeptThe Streets Dept Podcast is a collaboration between Conrad Benner (Host), Rowhome Productions (Producers), and Eric Dale (Creative/Research). Our main graphic photo is by Brad Rose. Our theme music is by Liz de Lise.
2026-04-0303 minStreets Dept PodcastThe Streets Dept Podcast is BackAfter a four year hiatus, Conrad is back to host more conversations with the creative minds shaping the world around us. Learn how you can support the podcast and get access to bonus content and events by visiting: Patreon.com/StreetsDeptThe Streets Dept Podcast is a collaboration between Conrad Benner (Host), Rowhome Productions (Producers), and Eric Dale (Creative/Research). Our main graphic photo is by Brad Rose. Our theme music is by Liz de Lise.
2026-04-0303 minCity Cast PhillyIs South Street Changing?In part three of our South Street Series, covering the past, present, and Future of one of Philly's most iconic streets, we take a look at the mix of businesses that have made the corridor distinct. Host Trenae Nuri talked with Drexel University Professor Richardson Dilworth, Condom Kingdom owner Stu Schlaffman, Streets Dept. founder Conrad Benner, Councilmember Mark Squilla, and Jim’s South Street president Ken Silver.
This episode originally aired on Sept. 10th, 2025. You can find the whole series in the podcast feed.
What’s your favorite South Street memory? Call or text us: 215-259-8...
2026-01-2236 minCity Cast PhillyCan South Street Stay Quirky?This is part 3 of our South Street Series covering what we consider Philly's most iconic street. We take a look at the mix of businesses that have made South Street distinct, with interviews from Drexel University Professor Richardson Dilworth, Condom Kingdom owner Stu Schlaffman, Streets Dept. founder Conrad Benner, Councilmember Mark Squilla, and Jim’s South Street president Ken Silver. And ICYMI, listen to Part 1 and Part 2 of our series on the history of South Street!
What’s your favorite South Street memory? Call or text us: 215-259-8170
Get Philly news & events in your inbo...
2025-09-1035 min
ologies with alie wardModern Toichographology (MURALS & STREET ART) with Conrad BennerMurals! Frescos! Graffiti! Street art! Philadelphia is the birthplace of graffiti and the mural capital of the world so we sit down with city historian, journalist, curator, and Toichographologist Conrad Benner to chat about public vs. private art, cultural movements, commissioned vs. um… un-commissioned murals, how mural topics are chosen, how much it costs to make a mural, where to get that money, vandalism and murals and the fine line between, and how everything you do is art. Let Philly’s history and 5,000 murals inspire you to gaze at what’s in your city and find out who made it, how yo...
2024-09-261h 19
Ologies with Alie WardModern Toichographology (MURALS & STREET ART) with Conrad BennerMurals! Frescos! Graffiti! Street art! Philadelphia is the birthplace of graffiti and the mural capital of the world so we sit down with city historian, journalist, curator, and Toichographologist Conrad Benner to chat about public vs. private art, cultural movements, commissioned vs. um… un-commissioned murals, how mural topics are chosen, how much it costs to make a mural, where to get that money, vandalism and murals and the fine line between, and how everything you do is art. Let Philly’s history and 5,000 murals inspire you to gaze at what’s in your city and find out who made it, ho...
2024-09-261h 19City Cast Philly15 Essential Rules for Living in PhillyEvery city has its list of unspoken rules. No matter where you live in the city, there might be some things you just don’t know. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Conrad Benner, founder of StreetsDept.com, curator at Mural Arts and host of WHYY’s Art Outside podcast and Nicole Phoenix, standup comedian and curator at Fringe Fest to create a list of essential rules of life in Philly.Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly.We’re also on Twitter and Instagram! Follow...
2024-09-1226 minCity Cast PhillyWTF Happened With UArts? Plus, Bus Station Ideas & Mysterious Cloud BillboardIt’s the Friday News Roundup! Today’s topics include the University of the Arts closure, where the city should put the intercity bus station, and the mystery behind Old City’s cloud billboard. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Inga Saffron, architecture columnist at The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Conrad Benner, founder of StreetsDept.com, curator at Mural Arts and host of WHYY’s Art Outside podcast. Our Friday news roundups are powered by great local journalism:
University of the Arts closure coverage from the Inquirer
It’s time for Philly to build a proper bus station. Her...
2024-06-0732 min
Full Circle (the Podcast) with Charles Tyson, Jr. & Martha MadrigalInterview With Conrad BennerCharles and Martha sat down with the author of the public art blog "Streets Department" and host of the WHYY podcast "Art Outside" Conrad Benner.They talked about the politics of public art, creating new queer spaces, how much fun viewing sports through a queer lens can be, and so much more!--For More About Conrad:STREETS DEPARTMENT WEBSITE 2024 STREETS DEPARTMENT MAGAZINEART OUTSIDE PODCAST --Check Out ArtReach's ACCESS Program -- Please Subscribe and Give Us A Review (5 stars or...
2024-02-231h 33
MISSION Story Slam PodcastMISSION Story Slam Podcast - Conrad BennerConrad Benner is the Founder/Editor of StreetsDept.com. A Fishtown, Philadelphia born-and-raised photo-blogger on Instagram and X, curator (Streets Dept Walls and Mural Arts Philadelphia), and podcaster (WHYY's Art Outside), Conrad's work explores the art of our public spaces and the artists who create it. He spoke to host Michael Schweisheimer on this and a wide range of topics on the podcast.
2024-02-1642 minCity Cast PhillyHigh and Lows of 2023 in PhillyIt’s been quite a year, hasn’t it? City Cast Philly takes a look back at the most chaotic news events, influential Philadelphians, and biggest city improvements of 2023. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Afea Tucker, Philadelphia community engagement reporter for The Trace, a nonprofit focusing on gun violence reporting, and Conrad Benner, founder of Streets Dept – a local art blog, and host of WHYY’s "Art Outside" podcast.Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Philly.We’re also on Twi...
2023-12-1822 min
Germantown Info Hub HourOHTB Recap & Afromation Avenue | 11.23.23Maleka speaks with Operation Hug The Block co-leader Mazzie Casher (also of Philly Truce) about the peace patrol's key takeaways. Rasheed explores the final installation of Afromation Avenue co-founders Brittni Jennings & Kristin Kelly and Mural Arts Curator Conrad Benner. Neighborhood contributor Benno Groeneveld speaks with Weavers Way about the Germantown storefront opening, expected in March 2024.
2023-11-2451 minCity Cast PhillyJuvenile Jail Overcrowding, Harriet Tubman Statue Design, Ice Cream Shops ClosingIt’s the Friday News Roundup! Host Trenae Nuri talks with Ellie Rushing, criminal justice reporter at The Philadelphia Inquirer, and Conrad Benner, founder of the local arts blog Streets Dept. They discuss problems at Philadelphia’s juvenile jail, the artist selected to design Philly’s Harriet Tubman statue, and the closing of local frozen treat businesses Weckerly's Ice Cream and Lil Pop Shop.Our Friday shows are powered by great local journalism:
Disturbing new photos inside Philly’s juvenile jail show kids sleeping on floors in crowded, filthy cells
City Announces Winning Artist Se...
2023-11-0320 minCity Cast PhillyWhat We Love — and Hate — About PhillyIt’s the Friday News Roundup! But, a little different this time. We're talking big picture... about the changes we’re most excited to see in our city, the most pressing issues facing residents, and how we can all stay better connected. Host Trenae Nuri is joined by Afea Tucker, Philadelphia community engagement reporter for The Trace, Conrad Benner, founder of Streets Dept, a local art blog, and City Cast Philly Arts & Culture contributor Charles Tyson, Jr. This live show was taped at the Indy Hall Clubhouse in Northern Liberties on August 30, 2023.Find out more...
2023-09-0126 min
Fieldhouse Files: Scott Agness on the Indiana PacersRemembering David Benner with Conrad Brunner, and an Aussie's visit to IndyOn this episode of the Fieldhouse Files podcast, I’ll touch on the Pacers’ four-game road trip, the offensive showcase in a loss to the 76ers; then bring on former Pacers writer Conrad Brunner to share memories of longtime PR director David Benner … and then Justin, a Pacers fan from down under and part of The Paceroos Podcast, talks about his visit.
Among the items discussed on this episode:
3-1 road trip, morning shootaround at Buddy Hield’s home and a team dinner at a Dallas steakhouse.
Using the road trip to continue to build, grow and comi...
2023-03-0846 min
The Merch DropSpam Merch with Nom Life, Elixr Coffee Poetry Sleeves and TeesEp 151 02-09-2023How to use merch if you run an independent coffee shop, and SPAM is doing a collab with some travel and food influencers. A short one today!Every week join Rich Graham and Amber Jewell as they discuss marketing with swag, merch, apparel, and custom branded promotional products. Join us LIVE on Thursdays at noon eastern time.https://bigpromo.live/youtubehttps://fb.com/BigPromotions/live#bigpromotions #biggerfish #mybigpromo #bigpromoswag #swag #merch #promotionalproducts #podcast---This month's promo code:
2023-02-0904 min
The Truth In This Art: Stories That MatterArt on the Streets: Conrad Benner's Philly Creative JourneyStep right into 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, guided by your host, Rob Lee. In today’s conversation, I talked with Conrad Benner, the visionary behind StreetsDepartment.com, a renowned Philadelphia street art blog. A native of Fishtown, Conrad's diverse talents as a skilled photographer, influential blogger, curator, and podcaster converge in his exploration of art, public space, and creative minds. Recognized for catalyzing change within the community, he has garnered accolades from prestigious sources including The Guardian and Time Magazine. Conrad's legacy in the Philadelphia art scene is underscored by his extensive 12-year tenure with the Streets De...
2023-01-1852 min
Dead CatDoes That Mean the Cat's Dead?Tom Dotan, Katie Benner, and I became friends in San Francisco back in 2014 when we all worked as technology reporters at The Information. But we didn’t achieve that core pillar of modern friendship until August 2021 when we started a podcast together. Insider generously let Tom co-host the podcast with me — and Katie, a reporter at the New York Times, came on every few episodes as a regular special guest.A year and a half ago we kicked off the show with an interview of Rippling CEO Parker Conrad. Since then, publishing most Tuesdays, we’ve pum...
2022-12-271h 13
Newcomer PodDoes That Mean the Cat's Dead?Tom Dotan, Katie Benner, and I became friends in San Francisco back in 2014 when we all worked as technology reporters at The Information. But we didn’t achieve that core pillar of modern friendship until August 2021 when we started a podcast together. Insider generously let Tom co-host the podcast with me — and Katie, a reporter at the New York Times, came on every few episodes as a regular special guest.A year and a half ago we kicked off the show with an interview of Rippling CEO Parker Conrad. Since then, publishing most Tuesdays, we’ve pum...
2022-12-271h 13City Cast PhillyWhat Campaign Colors Say About Philly's Mayoral CandidatesWords mean everything. They say so much, right? So do the colors chosen for political campaigns. City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri chats with Conrad Benner of Streets Dept. blog and podcast about his interpretation of some of the city’s potential mayoral candidates and what we can learn about them through their campaign logos and websites.*Please note that after we recorded this conversation Rev. Warren Bloom Sr. said he wanted to run for Philadelphia mayor. Want some more Philly news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter.
2022-12-0618 min
Streets Dept PodcastStreets Dept Podcast: Terrill Haigler Makes A Big AnnouncementTo kick off the 5th year of the Streets Dept Podcast, host Conrad Benner talks with a very special guest who's making a big announcement. That guest is Terrill Haigler, but there's a chance you know him better as "Ya Fav Trashman." Over the last few years, Terrill has turned a much-beloved Instagram account that he created to help Philadelphians better understand the challenges of sanitation work at the start of the pandemic into a movement for better streets. Now, he's hoping to take that energy to local government.
2022-09-031h 10Streets Dept PodcastStreets Dept Podcast: Terrill Haigler Makes A Big AnnouncementTo kick off the 5th year of the Streets Dept Podcast, host Conrad Benner talks with a very special guest who's making a big announcement. That guest is Terrill Haigler, but there's a chance you know him better as "Ya Fav Trashman." Over the last few years, Terrill has turned a much-beloved Instagram account that he created to help Philadelphians better understand the challenges of sanitation work at the start of the pandemic into a movement for better streets. Now, he's hoping to take that energy to local government.
2022-09-031h 10
Wellness At Work The PodcastWellness at Work S7: Ep 2 - Conversation with Conrad BennerPhoto Blogger, Curator, Podcaster and Founder of StreetsDept.com, Conrad Benner joined @hellohelanah to talk about the journey of his career in art activism and the importance of street art as an outlet for our communities during these turbulant times. Do you want to stay up to date with every new episode and get my brand new Self-Care Toolkit? Go to www.HelloHelanah.com to get instant access. *** Or text me (267) 281-3890 to get your burning questions answered and an insider sneak peek of exciting updates. I do my best to answer as many as I can each day...
2022-08-1943 min
Streets Dept PodcastRick Krajewski On The Power And Possibility Of The PA State HouseOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Rick Krajewski. Krajewski is a State Representative running for his second term serving PA's 188th District. He is a progressive Democrat in a PA Congress which has Republicans in control of both chambers of the state legislature. As he comes to the end of his first two-year term and runs for his second, we discuss the obstacles and opportunities of working in this congress, especially over the last two years with the added challenges created by Covid. And we talk about his goals for a second term, one he'll likely...
2022-05-1531 minStreets Dept PodcastRick Krajewski On The Power And Possibility Of The PA State HouseOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Rick Krajewski. Krajewski is a State Representative running for his second term serving PA's 188th District. He is a progressive Democrat in a PA Congress which has Republicans in control of both chambers of the state legislature. As he comes to the end of his first two-year term and runs for his second, we discuss the obstacles and opportunities of working in this congress, especially over the last two years with the added challenges created by Covid. And we talk about his goals for a second term, one he'll likely...
2022-05-1531 min
Streets Dept PodcastAlexandra Hunt On Running For CongressOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Alexandra Hunt. Hunt is a public health researcher, a girls' soccer coach, an advocate for social, racial, economic, and environmental justice, and an organizer who's running for election to the United States House of Representatives from the 3rd district of Pennsylvania. Running to the left of her Democratic opponent in this month's Primaries, Hunt has employed her past experience to develop an out-of-the-box campaign that's currently raised nearly $500,000 and earned lot of national and international attention.
2022-05-0340 minStreets Dept PodcastAlexandra Hunt On Running For CongressOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Alexandra Hunt. Hunt is a public health researcher, a girls' soccer coach, an advocate for social, racial, economic, and environmental justice, and an organizer who's running for election to the United States House of Representatives from the 3rd district of Pennsylvania. Running to the left of her Democratic opponent in this month's Primaries, Hunt has employed her past experience to develop an out-of-the-box campaign that's currently raised nearly $500,000 and earned lot of national and international attention.
2022-05-0340 min
Streets Dept PodcastUgly Art Films On Kickstarting A Filmmaking CareerOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Elijah Crawford and Zach Miscavage, Co-Owners of Ugly Art Films. In just over a year after Ugly Art's conception, the company has produced over 18 projects with artists nationally, including music videos, a not-yet-released interview series, commercial work, and more. Together we talk about how the pair met to start a filmmaking effort, how they've developed their signature style, and what's on deck as they plan their first short film, "The Cure for Depression"!
2022-04-101h 01Streets Dept PodcastUgly Art Films On Kickstarting A Filmmaking CareerOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Elijah Crawford and Zach Miscavage, Co-Owners of Ugly Art Films. In just over a year after Ugly Art's conception, the company has produced over 18 projects with artists nationally, including music videos, a not-yet-released interview series, commercial work, and more. Together we talk about how the pair met to start a filmmaking effort, how they've developed their signature style, and what's on deck as they plan their first short film, "The Cure for Depression"!
2022-04-101h 01
Streets Dept PodcastAnne Ishii Talks Queerness, Love, Art, and LeadershipOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Anne Ishii! Anne is a writer based in Philadelphia and New York, as well as the Executive Director of Asian Arts Initiative. Anne also owns and runs MASSIVE GOODS, a fashion brand and manga publisher. Together we talk about queerness, love, art, leadership, and so much more!
2022-03-1556 minStreets Dept PodcastAnne Ishii Talks Queerness, Love, Art, and LeadershipOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Anne Ishii! Anne is a writer based in Philadelphia and New York, as well as the Executive Director of Asian Arts Initiative. Anne also owns and runs MASSIVE GOODS, a fashion brand and manga publisher. Together we talk about queerness, love, art, leadership, and so much more!
2022-03-1556 min
Streets Dept PodcastJosh Pellegrini on Photography, NFTs, and Building Creative CommunitiesOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Philly-based artist Josh Pellegrini. Josh talks about finding an artistic community through his sobriety. Leaving his nursing career to become a full-time photographer. And what he's learned with his newfound success in NFTs.
2022-02-1055 minStreets Dept PodcastJosh Pellegrini on Photography, NFTs, and Building Creative CommunitiesOn today's episode host Conrad Benner is joined by Philly-based artist Josh Pellegrini. Josh talks about finding an artistic community through his sobriety. Leaving his nursing career to become a full-time photographer. And what he's learned with his newfound success in NFTs.
2022-02-1055 min
Streets Dept PodcastJonathon Stalls and The Fight For Pedestrian Dignity Today on the podcast host Conrad Benner talks with Denver-based walking artist and pedestrian advocate, Jonathon Stalls. In 2010, Jonathon spent 242 days walking across the United States. Since then he's built a grassroots walking movement focused on cultivating connections to others, to the places we live, and to ourselves. One of his latest efforts: creating content for his wildly popular Pedestrian Dignity TikTok page that explores good and bad public design across the world.
2022-01-1052 minStreets Dept PodcastJonathon Stalls and The Fight For Pedestrian Dignity Today on the podcast host Conrad Benner talks with Denver-based walking artist and pedestrian advocate, Jonathon Stalls. In 2010, Jonathon spent 242 days walking across the United States. Since then he's built a grassroots walking movement focused on cultivating connections to others, to the places we live, and to ourselves. One of his latest efforts: creating content for his wildly popular Pedestrian Dignity TikTok page that explores good and bad public design across the world.
2022-01-1052 min