

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

Nov 17, 2021 • 1h 59min
The Cinderella Wizards, AFC East Intrigue, and the 'Rocky IV' Director’s Cut With Joe House, Chris Vernon, Warren Sharp, and Gus Ramsey
Join Joe House, a sports analysis guru from The Ringer, along with Chris Vernon, the Memphis Grizzlies analyst, and esteemed football expert Warren Sharp, as they explore the Wizards' surprising rise in the Eastern Conference. They dissect the NBA's player trade dynamics surrounding Ben Simmons and the 76ers. Shifting gears, Warren discusses why the NFL still lacks a clear top team this season, while Gus Ramsey shares fresh takes on the 'Rocky IV' director's cut, revealing how it deepens the story and nostalgia.

Nov 15, 2021 • 1h 31min
Here Come the Pats! Plus: The “What’s Wrong?” Game, Taylor vs. Jake, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Cousin Sal, a regular sports commentator, joins the discussion to dissect the Patriots' triumphant win over the Browns and the surprising loss of the Buccaneers. They hilariously analyze the rocky return of Russell Wilson and the dynamics unfolding in several other NFL matchups. Sal shares his personal betting anecdotes, and the duo plays a fun guessing game about NFL lines for Week 11. They wrap up with amusing parenting tales that provide a light-hearted contrast to the gritty world of sports.

Nov 12, 2021 • 1h 45min
Paul George’s MVP Run, the Kooky West, Odell to L.A., and Baker vs. Belichick With Jonathan Tjarks and Peter Schrager
Joined by Jonathan Tjarks, an NBA expert from The Ringer, the conversation dives into Paul George's MVP-worthy performance with the Clippers and Coach Ty Lue's strategic brilliance. They also explore the Mavericks' struggles and rookie sensations. Later, NFL insider Peter Schrager discusses Odell Beckham Jr.'s bold move to the Rams and the high-stakes matchups ahead, including the implications of Baker Mayfield’s contract talks and the unpredictable NFL post-Super Bowl dynamics.

Nov 10, 2021 • 1h 60min
Westbrook’s Slide, the Phoenix Fallout, Celtics Rumors, and Half-Baked Ideas With Jackie MacMullan and Kevin Wildes
Jackie MacMullan, a veteran sports journalist renowned for her NBA insights, joins Kevin Wildes, an FS1 personality and former contributor to ESPN, to dive into the NBA's latest controversies. They discuss Russell Westbrook's struggles with adapting to the Lakers, Ben Simmons' trade rumors, and the fallout from the scandal involving Suns owner Robert Sarver. The conversation also touches on the evolution of sports commentary and wraps up with a playful segment on whimsical ‘Half-Baked Ideas’ that entertain and spark creativity.

Nov 8, 2021 • 1h 25min
Buffalo’s Stumble, Rodgers’s Heel Turn, Mahomes Theories, and the Odell Sleepstakes. Plus: Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal.
Cousin Sal, a regular sports analyst known for his comedic insights, joins the conversation for a lively discussion about recent NFL drama. They dissect the surprise losses of the Bills and the challenges faced by the Chiefs without Aaron Rodgers. The hosts dive into the implications of key games like Cowboys vs. Broncos, and Vikings vs. Ravens, alongside some hilarious lines guessing for the upcoming week. They also touch on personal anecdotes about family and the influence of fantasy football on their viewing experiences.

Nov 5, 2021 • 1h 24min
Part 2: Tom Hanks on ‘Cast Away’ Theories, ‘Forrest Gump’ Haters, and 40 Years of Memorable Movies
In a captivating conversation, Tom Hanks, an iconic actor and filmmaker known for classics like 'Forrest Gump' and 'Cast Away,' shares fascinating insights from his career. He reflects on the evolution of Hollywood comedy in the 1980s and his experiences with talented co-stars like Matt Damon and Leonardo DiCaprio. Hanks discusses the emotional challenges of portraying complex characters and the nostalgia tied to his films. He even shares a touching baseball memory, highlighting the personal connections he's made through storytelling.

Nov 5, 2021 • 1h 43min
Part 1: Sleeper Warriors, Green Bay’s F.U. Potential, and Atlanta’s Big Week With Peter Schrager and Rembert Browne
Joining the conversation are Peter Schrager, a seasoned NFL analyst known for his sharp insights, and Rembert Browne, a former colleague of Bill's celebrating the Atlanta Braves' World Series triumph. They dive into the rising potential of the Golden State Warriors and examine bold NFL trades, including Von Miller's move to the Rams. Rembert shares his nostalgic joy about the Braves’ victory, discussing the emotional connection fans have with their teams and the spirit of Atlanta sports culture. Expect sharp analysis and heartfelt storytelling!

Nov 3, 2021 • 1h 38min
A Two-Week NBA Check-in With Big Wos and Jake Paul on Changing Boxing and Influencer Culture
Wosny Lambre, an insightful NBA analyst from The Ringer, shares his thoughts on the Miami Heat's hot start, the surprising struggles of the Boston Celtics, and the chemistry challenges within teams like the Bulls and Nets. Meanwhile, Jake Paul, a social media sensation turned professional boxer, discusses his journey through influencer culture and the world of boxing. He candidly talks about learning from mistakes in marketing fights and navigating the complexities of sibling rivalry with his brother, all while highlighting his aspirations in the sport.

Nov 1, 2021 • 1h 23min
Welcome to Wonk Week! Plus: Backup QB Saviors, Pats Déjà Vu, and Week 9 Lines With Cousin Sal.
Sal Iacono, aka Cousin Sal, is back for another round of witty sports commentary and betting insights. Dive into the chaos of the NFL as they break down bizarre game performances and discuss the surprising contributions of backup quarterbacks. The pair tackles the struggles of teams like the Cowboys and Patriots, while also reflecting on quarterback legacies from Brady to Roethlisberger. Wrapping up with a fun discussion on Halloween parenting challenges and a spoiler-filled take on 'Succession', this conversation packs in humor and insight all around!

Oct 29, 2021 • 1h 50min
Mobley Fever, LaMelo Advice, Brady’s MVP Run, and Pats-Chargers With J. Kyle Mann and Peter Schrager
J. Kyle Mann, a contributor to The Ringer known for his NBA analysis, joins NFL expert Peter Schrager for an insightful conversation. They dive into NBA overreactions, including the Cavaliers' rising potential and LaMelo Ball's inconsistent play. The duo then shifts to NFL MVP discussions, weighing Tom Brady's chances against Derrick Henry's stellar performance. With Million-Dollar Picks for Week 8 on the table, they break down key matchups, focusing on the upcoming Pats-Chargers game and its implications for betting strategies.