Seattle Now

Casual Friday with Chase Burns and Vivian McCall

·22 min·2 clips
Vivian McCall reveals why rideshare driving was the worst, most exploitative job she's ever had.
The episode begins with host Patricia Murphy introducing guests Chase Burns and Vivian McCall for a casual Friday news roundup. The first topic is a King County Library System program that incentivizes adults with free pizza for completing reading-related activities, sparking nostalgia and a debate on whether such nostalgia can counter a reported 40% decline in adult pleasure reading. The conversation then shifts to rideshare issues, where the Drivers Union of Washington reports too many drivers, leading to half of miles driven without passengers and significant income drops for drivers; Vivian McCall shares her personal experience as a former driver, calling it exploitative. Next, the hosts discuss the impending time zone change where British Columbia will permanently stay on daylight saving time, creating a one-hour difference with Washington State and potential confusion for cross-border commuters. The final major topic is tipping culture in Seattle, referencing a survey that 41% think it's out of control, with guests debating whether tipping is a moral obligation or a personal choice, especially with automated services. Throughout, the tone is conversational and opinion-driven, blending news analysis with personal anecdotes. The episode wraps with credits and a call for listener support.

As heard by us

Friday banter turns rideshare numbers into a local labor story.

Seattle Now's Friday hour moves from the east-side I-405 closure and the new Washington-British Columbia time difference to Uber and Lyft drivers saying there is too much competition.

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Why you'd press play

For when you want a Friday Seattle catch-up that starts with I-405 and lands on rideshare pay.

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