

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

Jun 3, 2022 • 1h 53min
A Huge Celts Comeback with Haralabos Voulgaris, Plus Adam Sandler on 30 Years of Comedies and Making ‘Hustle’
Haralabos Voulgaris, a sports analyst and betting expert, shares insights on the Celtics' thrilling Game 1 victory against the Warriors. He dives into basketball strategies, player dynamics, and the rising importance of three-point shooting. Meanwhile, Adam Sandler, the beloved actor and comedian, reflects on his latest film 'Hustle.' He reminisces about classic sports movies, his journey in comedy, and the heartwarming impact of family on his career. Their conversations span nostalgia, sports dynamics, and the art of filmmaking.

Jun 1, 2022 • 1h 47min
NBA Finals Angles With David Jacoby and Kevin Wildes. Plus, Jon Bernthal’s Return to the Pod.
David Jacoby and Kevin Wildes, both contributors to The Ringer, discuss the emotional intensity of the NBA Finals, debating Jimmy Butler's pivotal moments and the fan dynamics surrounding players like Steph Curry. They explore imaginative ideas like a relegation system for the NBA. Later, actor Jon Bernthal shares behind-the-scenes stories from his role in 'We Own This City,' the nuances of playing complex characters, and reflections on parenting as a sports dad. Expect insightful commentary mixed with fun anecdotes!

May 30, 2022 • 2h 11min
Boston’s Heart Attack Trip to the Finals With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a seasoned sports analyst and co-host known for his deep basketball insights, joins Bill Simmons to dissect the Celtics' thrilling playoff victory over the Heat. They analyze Jimmy Butler's playoff prowess and the crucial contributions of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The discussion shifts to the Celtics' upcoming finals matchup against the Warriors, exploring strategic dynamics and player impacts. Russillo also shares thoughts on the evolving roles of staples like Steph Curry and the intricacies of team management in today's NBA.

May 28, 2022 • 55min
Super-Jimmy Thwarts Boston’s Finals Plans, with Kevin O’Connor and Ryen Russillo
Kevin O’Connor, a basketball analyst for The Ringer, and Ryen Russillo, a seasoned sports broadcaster, dive deep into the Celtics' dramatic Game 6 loss to the Heat. They analyze Jimmy Butler’s stellar performance and the devastating impact of Robert Williams’s absence. Attention shifts to Jaylen Brown’s missed free throws and how they may haunt him if the Celtics falter. The conversation takes a turn as they question whether this collapse marks an all-time choke for Boston and ponder the implications of a potential Heat victory on 'Heat Culture.'

May 26, 2022 • 1h 30min
The Heat Fall Apart With Joe House, Plus Michael Che on Swollen ‘SNL’ Casts and Stand-Up Comedy in 2022
Joe House, a sports commentator for The Ringer, shares insights on the Celtics' playoff strategies and how injuries are impacting the Heat's performance. He discusses pivotal player moments and analytics in basketball. Meanwhile, comedian Michael Che talks about his experiences on 'Saturday Night Live,' the chemistry with Colin Jost, and his work in stand-up comedy, touching on societal issues and the evolution of humor in a digital age. Their candid conversations blend sports and laughter effortlessly.

May 24, 2022 • 1h 23min
A Celtics-Heat Rock Fight with Bill's Dad. Plus, Jalen Green Stops By and We Fix All-Star Weekend.
In this conversation, Jalen Green, a rising star for the Houston Rockets, shares insights from his rookie season and discusses his friendship with Anthony Edwards. He reflects on the high-pressure moments of playing against his idols. Meanwhile, Bill's Dad brings a nostalgic touch, dissecting the Celtics' thrilling Game 4 win over the Heat and sharing his personal experiences as a loyal Boston fan. They also brainstorm exciting changes for All-Star Weekend, including a fresh take on dunk contests that could shake things up in the NBA.

May 23, 2022 • 1h 60min
The Wiggins Game, Curry’s Quest, the Miami Bullyballers, and Fake Ayton Trades With Ryen Russillo
Bill Simmons chats with Ryen Russillo, a knowledgeable sports analyst and podcast co-host, about the thrilling NBA playoffs. They dissect Andrew Wiggins' transformation with the Warriors and Steph Curry's pursuit of his sixth Finals appearance. The duo analyzes the Celtics' physical struggles against the Heat and teases upcoming potential midseason tournaments. They also dive into the buzzing trade rumors surrounding DeAndre Ayton and the shifting competitive dynamics within the league, making for a lively discussion!

May 20, 2022 • 1h 56min
A Boston Boomerang, Butler the Superstar, a Yankees Revival, and NFL Schedule Lessons With Haralabos Voulgaris, Warren Sharp, and JackO
Haralabos Voulgaris, a sharp basketball analyst, shares insights on the Celtics' playoff performance, highlighting key player impacts and team adjustments. Warren Sharp, a football analytics expert, discusses the 2022 NFL schedule, analyzing team advantages and potential sleeper picks. JackO, a sports commentator known for his baseball expertise, sparks excitement over the Yankees' impressive start to the season and the revitalization of Aaron Judge, weaving nostalgia with hopes for the team's future.

May 18, 2022 • 1h 30min
Butler Busts Boston, Plus 2022 Lottery Overreactions With Kevin O’Connor, Ryen Russillo and J. Kyle Mann
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons is joined by Kevin O’Connor, Ryen Russillo, and J. Kyle Mann to discuss the Heat’s Game 1 win over the Celtics in the Eastern Conference finals, Jimmy Butler’s excellent performance, the Celtics’ pitiful third quarter, series predictions, and more (1:56). Then they discuss the NBA draft lottery selection, what the Orlando Magic should do with the first overall pick, the best fit for the Thunder at no. 2, where the talent drop-off is in the first round, fake trades, and more (28:45).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Kevin O’Connor, Ryen Russillo, and J. Kyle MannProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

May 16, 2022 • 1h 19min
Part 2: Luka Shines and Phoenix Collapses (and Then Some) With Ryen Russillo
Join Ryen Russillo, a seasoned sports analyst from The Ringer, as he breaks down the Phoenix Suns' shocking collapse in Game 7 against the Mavericks and explores what it means for their future. The duo analyzes Luka Dončić's impressive performances, his rising status in the league, and the implications for potential trades. They also discuss the challenges facing star players like James Harden and dive into the psychological pressures of playoffs, shedding light on what it takes to succeed under such scrutiny.