Episode 25: Does Portland need a “Night Mayor”?

For most Portlanders, the city doesn’t start until the workday ends—yet the only municipal employees reliably clocking in after 5 p.m. are cops, firefighters, and 911 operators. Could a dedicated advocate for nightlife, culture, and after-hours small business help the Rose City feel vibrant and safe again?

Host Jamie Dunphy sits down with two of America’s leading nighttime-economy strategists:

Scott Plusquellec – Nightlife Business Advocate, City of Seattle

Julia Heath – Policy & Outreach Manager, Office of Nighttime Economy, City of New Orleans

Together they unpack what a “night mayor” really does (and why that title makes them cringe), how COVID reshaped urban after-hours life, and what Portland should consider before launching its own program.

If you care about music venues, late-night jobs, or simply being able to grab a taco and hear a band at midnight without stepping over red tape, this episode is for you.