

The Bill Simmons Podcast
The Ringer
HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons hosts the most downloaded sports podcast of all time, with a rotating crew of celebrities, athletes, and media staples, as well as mainstays like Cousin Sal, Joe House, and a slew of other friends and family members who always happen to be suspiciously available.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 29, 2023 • 1h 53min
The Lamar Sweepstakes With Mallory Rubin. Plus, Half-Baked Ideas With Kevin Wildes.
Mallory Rubin, a writer for The Ringer and NFL expert, dives into the tumultuous relationship between Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, discussing potential trade scenarios and his QB ranking. Kevin Wildes from Fox Sports joins the conversation, pondering the Patriots' interest in Jackson and the dynamic between Bill Belichick and ownership. They also have a lively segment on 'Half-Baked Ideas,' sharing humorous and impractical concepts that spark creativity and laughter. It's a mix of serious sports analysis and light-hearted fun!

Mar 27, 2023 • 1h 58min
A Mavs Tailspin, Luka’s Future, LeBron’s Feet, and Playoff Seed Dodgeball With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a renowned sports analyst from The Ringer, joins to dissect the Dallas Mavericks' panic mode and the urgent pressure on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to perform. They explore strategies for building around Doncic, while also predicting playoff fates for the Lakers and discussing the Grizzlies' resurgence. Further, they delve into the MVP race and the playoff implications of team dynamics. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on March Madness and the humorous side of balancing friendships within the hectic sports world.

Mar 24, 2023 • 1h 38min
Most Fun NFL Offseason Story Lines With Mina Kimes and Danny Kelly, Plus West Play-In Roulette With Michael Pina
In a lively discussion, ESPN's Mina Kimes shares her brilliant insights on the NFL offseason, spotlighting the Panthers' no. 1 draft pick and the Aaron Rodgers saga. Danny Kelly adds depth with thoughts on the Lions aiming for NFC North dominance and the Seahawks' draft strategies. Transitioning to the NBA, Michael Pina dives into Karl Anthony Towns's return and the intriguing Western Conference play-in matchups. The conversation blends humor with sharp analysis, making it a must-listen for sports fans.

Mar 22, 2023 • 1h 46min
Matt Damon and Ben Affleck on Four Decades of Friendship and Movies. Plus, Logan Murdock on the Jaylen Brown Saga.
In this lively discussion, acclaimed actors Matt Damon and Ben Affleck reflect on their four-decade friendship and the journey of their creative partnership. They share hilarious anecdotes about pranks and living together, and delve into their new film, 'Air.' Writer Logan Murdock offers insights into Jaylen Brown's pivotal role within the Celtics, exploring personal challenges and team dynamics. The trio also discusses the impact of fame and the importance of genuine friendships amidst public scrutiny, blending humor and nostalgia throughout.

Mar 20, 2023 • 1h 51min
An NBA Title Mystery, a ‘Historic Scoring” Dilemma, Atlanta’s Woes and March Madness with Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a seasoned sports analyst and co-host at The Ringer, joins the conversation to crack open the thrilling unpredictability of the current NBA season. They dissect the title race, examining potential frontrunners like the Milwaukee Bucks. The duo dives into astonishing player performances and debates historical scoring metrics. They also analyze the Atlanta Hawks' struggles after a shocking game against the Spurs, and wrap up with some fiery insights on the madness of March, highlighting unexpected tournament twists.

Mar 17, 2023 • 1h 49min
Curry vs. Rodgers, Plus Drafting the Worst NBA Contracts With Joe House and Wosny Lambre
Join Joe House, an NBA expert and contributor at The Ringer, and Wosny Lambre, another sharp analyst from the same platform, as they draft the 21 worst NBA contracts of 2023. They dive into the success of Steph Curry and ponder the Warriors' playoff hopes. Expect lively banter on overpaid stars like Ben Simmons and the challenges tied to hefty salaries. They also discuss how team culture can shift as contracts weigh heavily on both players and franchises in a constantly evolving league.

Mar 15, 2023 • 1h 55min
The NBA Center Revolution, March Madness Picks, and the WWE’s Gambling Idea With Kevin O’Connor, Tate Frazier, and Brian Gewirtz
Kevin O’Connor, an NBA analyst from The Ringer, shares insights on the Nuggets' struggles and the evolving role of centers in basketball. Tate Frazier, a March Madness expert, dives into betting strategies and compelling tournament narratives. Finally, Brian Gewirtz, former WWE head writer, discusses the intriguing prospect of gambling on wrestling, the challenges of secrecy in storylines, and shares wild tales from his past in the WWE. It's an engaging mix of sports insights and behind-the-scenes storytelling!

Mar 13, 2023 • 1h 52min
Sacramento’s Sleeper Potential, More MVP Arguments, and a Bizarre All-NBA Situation With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst and co-host of The Ringer's podcast, joins Bill Simmons to dive into the Sacramento Kings' surprising potential in the Western Conference and whether De'Aaron Fox deserves more recognition. They debate the MVP race, favoring Joel Embiid over Nikola Jokic, but suggest that Jokic won't mind the outcome. The discussion wraps up with spirited All-NBA team debates and a look back at the implications of historical trades, including the notable Deron Williams deal.

Mar 10, 2023 • 1h 36min
Lamar’s Next Move, the Rodgers Sweepstakes, and an Oscars Preview With Sheil Kapadia, John Jastremski, and Sean Fennessey
Sheil Kapadia, an NFL expert at The Ringer, dives into the murky waters of quarterback trades, analyzing Aaron Rodgers' potential move to the Jets and the ramifications of Lamar Jackson's nonexclusive franchise tag. John Jastremski adds insights into New York's unique sports climate. Sean Fennessey shifts gears to film, offering predictions for the upcoming Oscars and discussing generational shifts in award recognition. With lively banter, they explore everything from player contracts to cinematic masterpieces, making for an engaging and informative conversation.

Mar 8, 2023 • 1h 57min
The Scary Suns and Mobley’s Rise With Rob Mahoney, and the Incredible Season 1 Finale of 'Succession' With Derek Thompson and Joanna Robinson
Rob Mahoney, an NBA analyst with The Ringer, offers keen insights on the Phoenix Suns, their playoff prospects, and the rise of star Evan Mobley. He discusses the team’s offensive strategy and potential matchups, emphasizing the Nuggets as their biggest rival. Meanwhile, Derek Thompson and Joanna Robinson dive into the gripping dynamics of HBO's 'Succession,' analyzing character transformations and power struggles. They explore the show's Emmy-winning writing, character arcs, and the intertwining themes of ambition and family dysfunction.