Shows
Streets Dept PodcastCenter Stage with Sapphira CristálSapphira Cristál is a superstar talent. Runner-up and Miss Congeniality of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16, she is a classically trained opera singer, composer, and drag queen known for her theatrical lip syncs and six-octave range. She’s also a comedian, touring the country doing stand-up. And most recently, she’s started her own interview podcast, simply called SAPPHIRA. In today’s episode, host Conrad Benner talks with Sapphira about leading with love, finding humor, and getting prepared for when it’s your time on the center stage! *** Learn how you can support the Streets...
2026-06-3048 minStreets Dept PodcastCenter Stage with Sapphira CristálSapphira Cristál is a superstar talent. Runner-up and Miss Congeniality of RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16, she is a classically trained opera singer, composer, and drag queen known for her theatrical lip syncs and six-octave range. She’s also a comedian, touring the country doing stand-up. And most recently, she’s started her own interview podcast, simply called SAPPHIRA. In today’s episode, host Conrad Benner talks with Sapphira about leading with love, finding humor, and getting prepared for when it’s your time on the center stage! *** Learn how you can support the Streets...
2026-06-3048 min
philly has heARTStreets Dept. Podcast feat. Conrad BennerOn this week's episode, we are joined by multihyphenate Conrad Benner.Website: https://streetsdept.com/Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/conradbenner/ | | https://www.linkedin.com/in/conrad-benner | https://www.instagram.com/streetsdept/ | https://www.instagram.com/streetsdeptwalls/// Show Notes:Contribute to the Philadelphia Ballet Capital Campaign: https://event.philadelphiaballet.org/BcBi1u
2026-06-2624 min
Streets Dept PodcastJune '26 Editor's Table (Free Version)Welcome to our 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 from Streets Dept founder/podcast host Conrad Benner, lead contributor Eric Dale, and podcast producer Alex Lewis.In this month's edition, podcasting expert Lauren Passell joins Alex and Conrad to discuss advice for the relaunch of our Streets Dept Podcast, why member-support is crucial for today’s podcasts, and other tips and tricks she offers to help us grow our show! Subscribe to Lauren’s podcast newslette...
2026-06-2326 minStreets Dept PodcastJune '26 Editor's Table (Free Version)Welcome to our 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 from Streets Dept founder/podcast host Conrad Benner, lead contributor Eric Dale, and podcast producer Alex Lewis.In this month's edition, podcasting expert Lauren Passell joins Alex and Conrad to discuss advice for the relaunch of our Streets Dept Podcast, why member-support is crucial for today’s podcasts, and other tips and tricks she offers to help us grow our show! Subscribe to Lauren’s podcast newslette...
2026-06-2326 min
City Cast PhillyWhere's the World Cup Boost? Plus, Rocky Takeover & City Loses Latest Slavery Exhibit FightWorld Cup soccer fans are taking over the Rocky steps and Lemon Hill Fan Fest, but are small businesses feeling a boost? Host Trenae Nuri is joined by executive producer Matt Katz and Conrad Benner, host of the Streets Dept. podcast, to talk about whether Philly neighborhoods and small businesses are financially benefiting from all the fandom. Plus, on this Tuesday News Roundup we discuss the latest court ruling on the slavery exhibit at the President’s House and the mysterious new tag you may have seen in South Philly: Meatball 🖤 You.
Our newsletter has Philly news & events...
2026-06-2340 min
Streets Dept PodcastGood Signs with Make It WeirdIt’s not everyday a street artist gets the attention of The Washington Post, but over the last year an individual new to both Philly and art has caught the eyes of many. This artist goes by the name Make It Weird (and EmEyeWhisky, and MIW; they go by “Em” for short). *** Learn how you can support the Streets Dept Podcast and get access to bonus content and events by visiting: Patreon.com/StreetsDept ***And in addition to critical recognition, the artist’s work has earned millions of views on social media with tens of thousands...
2026-06-1645 minStreets Dept PodcastGood Signs with Make It WeirdIt’s not everyday a street artist gets the attention of The Washington Post, but over the last year an individual new to both Philly and art has caught the eyes of many. This artist goes by the name Make It Weird (and EmEyeWhisky, and MIW; they go by “Em” for short). *** Learn how you can support the Streets Dept Podcast and get access to bonus content and events by visiting: Patreon.com/StreetsDept ***And in addition to critical recognition, the artist’s work has earned millions of views on social media with tens of thousands...
2026-06-1645 min
Streets Dept PodcastAccessing Art with Chelsey LusterThere’s an artist in Philadelphia creating their own blueprint, and we think you’ll find her vision and path really fascinating. This artist is developing a personal artistic practice while working within established Philly arts institutions and simultaneously building their own. Her goals are many, but at her core is a drive to help people feel seen and make art more accessible–including curating exhibitions with new artists and building price points and options for first-time buyers. This artist is Chelsey Luster. In today’s episode, host Conrad Benner talks with Chelsey about the importance of practical...
2026-06-021h 06Streets Dept PodcastAccessing Art with Chelsey LusterThere’s an artist in Philadelphia creating their own blueprint, and we think you’ll find her vision and path really fascinating. This artist is developing a personal artistic practice while working within established Philly arts institutions and simultaneously building their own. Her goals are many, but at her core is a drive to help people feel seen and make art more accessible–including curating exhibitions with new artists and building price points and options for first-time buyers. This artist is Chelsey Luster. In today’s episode, host Conrad Benner talks with Chelsey about the importance of practical...
2026-06-021h 06
Streets Dept PodcastEditor's Table May '26***Help us grow: This is just an excerpt of this month's Editor's Table. Full Editor’s Table episodes are only available to our Patreon members, who also get other benefits, like monthly bonus columns and free access to future events. Main feed episodes may also eventually contain ads, and Patreon members will also get an ad-free podcast feed when that happens. Learn more, become a member, and support this independent effort here: patreon.com/streetsdeptWelcome to our monthly Editor’s Table episode, where we offer behind-the-scenes conversations about podcasting, independent media, Philly, and...
2026-05-2614 minStreets Dept PodcastEditor's Table May '26***Help us grow: This is just an excerpt of this month's Editor's Table. Full Editor’s Table episodes are only available to our Patreon members, who also get other benefits, like monthly bonus columns and free access to future events. Main feed episodes may also eventually contain ads, and Patreon members will also get an ad-free podcast feed when that happens. Learn more, become a member, and support this independent effort here: patreon.com/streetsdeptWelcome to our monthly Editor’s Table episode, where we offer behind-the-scenes conversations about podcasting, independent media, Philly, and...
2026-05-2614 min
Hung Up PodcastDocumenting a Changing Philadelphia with Conrad Benner of Streets DeptAfter a quick check-in on some local civic engagement and my thoughts on the new Is God Is movie, Conrad Benner founder of Streets Dept. joins me unpacking everything Philly cultural arts and public space scene- the past present and where he sees the future of the Philly cultural arts scene going.
@streetsdept
$$ IMPACT research study link bit.ly/ATNHUP
2026-05-251h 03
Streets Dept PodcastSeeding Progress with Nikil SavalIf you’re on our side of the social media algorithms, you’ve likely also seen many videos from different Philadelphians hoping for a Zohran Mamdani-type to rise in Philly politics. And, as we see it, there are a number of City and State politicians who might fit the criteria. Today’s guest is one of them.*** Learn how you can support the Streets Dept Podcast and get access to bonus content and events by visiting: Patreon.com/StreetsDept ***In this episode, host Conrad Benner talks with Pennsylvania State Senator Nikil Saval. Elected in 2021, Nikil is a w...
2026-05-1956 minStreets Dept PodcastSeeding Progress with Nikil SavalIf you’re on our side of the social media algorithms, you’ve likely also seen many videos from different Philadelphians hoping for a Zohran Mamdani-type to rise in Philly politics. And, as we see it, there are a number of City and State politicians who might fit the criteria. Today’s guest is one of them.*** Learn how you can support the Streets Dept Podcast and get access to bonus content and events by visiting: Patreon.com/StreetsDept ***In this episode, host Conrad Benner talks with Pennsylvania State Senator Nikil Saval. Elected in 2021, Nikil is a w...
2026-05-1956 min
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 minCity 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, ho...
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, how yo...
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 min