David Shoemaker

The Ringer’s Chris Ryan, Sean Fennessey, Jason Concepcion, and David Shoemaker lace up their bowling shoes and make themselves a batch of White Russians to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the 1998 cult classic ‘The Big Lebowski,’ starring Jeff Bridges and John Goodman and directed by the Coen brothers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Philosopher David Shoemaker from Cornell joins the conversation, bringing his expertise in exploring profound themes. They dive into Stanley Kubrick's 'The Shining,' debating the hotel’s haunting symbolism and dissecting the duality of characters like the Gradys. The impact of the Steadicam on our perception of dread is questioned, as well as Shelly Duvall's performance. They even ponder historical injustices and what a land acknowledgment at the Overlook might look like, delivering a rich tapestry of horror, psychology, and cinematic artistry.

Rob Mahoney, a writer for The Ringer, dives into the Celtics' recent sweeping victory over the Bucks, discussing player dynamics and the MVP race. Meanwhile, David Shoemaker and Kazeem Famuyide bring the excitement of WrestleMania 39 to life, analyzing key matches like Omos vs. Brock Lesnar and Logan Paul's surprising wrestling journey. The trio also explores evolving playoff narratives in both the NBA and WWE, highlighting the thrill of rivalries and the intense competition expected as the playoffs approach.

Mina Kimes, an insightful ESPN analyst, joins to dissect rookie quarterbacks Jaden Daniels and Drake Maye, evaluating their potential amid NFL team strategies. They also speculate on Caleb Williams as the future star leader. The conversation then shifts to professional wrestling with experts David Shoemaker and Ariel Helwani, who preview WrestleMania 40. They discuss the resurgence of WWE, the intriguing storyline of The Rock's heel turn, and emerging talents, setting the stage for a thrilling wrestling showdown.

The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Kevin Clark to discuss some post–Super Bowl narratives, including the Matt Stafford Hall of Fame debate, whether the Bengals will be back in the Super Bowl anytime soon, rumors about Rams head coach Sean McVay stepping away, speculation on Tom Brady's future, and more (1:54). Then Bill talks with Sean Fennessey about the upcoming Oscars, the waning award-show audience, how adding more categories would help the broadcast, their award predictions, and more (45:59). Finally Bill talks with David Shoemaker about news of Cody Rhodes's shocking departure from AEW and speculated return to WWE before Bill and David lay out their idea of what Rhodes's first few months back at the WWE should look like (1:23:46).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Kevin Clark, Sean Fennessey, and David ShoemakerProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kevin Clark, a sports contributor at The Ringer, shares insights on the 2021 Masters Tournament, highlighting key players and the future of golf. David Shoemaker, art director and wrestling podcaster, dives into the excitement of 'WrestleMania 37' with discussions on matches, standout performances like Bianca Belair's, and the impact of celebrity involvement. They can't help but analyze the two-day WrestleMania format and the evolution of key wrestlers, making for an engaging blend of sports and entertainment.

Jason Gay, a Wall Street Journal writer, shares insights on the NBA's fraught relationship with China, sparked by a controversial tweet. He discusses the league’s financial interests and the impact of social media on public perception. Meanwhile, David Shoemaker dives into WWE's current events, including their partnerships in Saudi Arabia and the rivalry with AEW. The conversation touches on whether we have too much wrestling these days and reflects on the cultural significance of this dynamic world in sports entertainment.

Join David Shoemaker, a wrestling historian and author of 'The Squared Circle,' as he dives into the shifting landscape of pro wrestling. He unpacks the rise of new promotions like AEW and how they challenge WWE's supremacy. Shoemaker explores the cultural influence of pioneers like Gorgeous George and discusses the criteria for determining the best wrestlers today. With insights on wrestling's evolution and its mythological roots, this conversation reveals the dynamic future of the sport.

Joe House, an NBA expert, dives into the Raptors' stunning Game 1 win over the Warriors and how it shifts the Finals narrative. Mallory Rubin reflects on the divisive ending of 'Game of Thrones,' discussing fan reactions and character arcs. David Shoemaker shares insights on the rising tension between AEW and WWE, highlighting AEW's impactful events and the future of wrestling. The conversation blends humor and analysis, capturing the essence of sports and pop culture.

Hold onto your butts! The Ringer’s Sean Fennessey, David Shoemaker, and Bryan Curtis are taking their helicopter back to 1993's mesmerizing blockbuster ‘Jurassic Park,’ starring Velociraptors, a T-rex, Jeff Goldblum, Laura Dern, and Sam Neill, and directed by Steven Spielberg. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices