The Bill Simmons Podcast

Ryen Russillo, a renowned sports analyst and podcast co-host, joins the conversation to dissect the revamped NBA All-Star Game format. He shares insights on how the new dynamics create playoff-like pressure and engages in playful criticism of the dunk contest’s lackluster past. Russillo also dives into rumors swirling around the Knicks’ chaos and suggests innovative changes to enhance the overall NBA experience. With humor and genuine passion, he covers player evaluations, potential trades, and the entertaining drama surrounding the league.

Ben Thompson, a savvy business and tech analyst known for his Stratechery insights, joins regular contributor JackO, a sports analysis aficionado. They dive into the complexities of monetizing digital media, from the rise of paid newsletters to the impact of streaming wars on viewing habits. The duo also faces the drama of the cheating Astros scandal and Mookie Betts’ controversial trade to L.A. Lastly, they tackle the current state of the Democratic primary, blending sports and politics with humor and keen observations.

Joining the conversation is Dave Grohl, the legendary lead singer of the Foo Fighters and former Nirvana drummer. He shares his thoughts on the vibrant punk rock scene from the 80s and how it shaped his musical identity. The discussion touches on the emotional rollercoaster of touring and band dynamics, as well as the lasting connections music creates between generations. On the basketball front, Joe House dives into the surprisingly resilient Raptors, the Rockets' small-ball strategy, and the Sixers' ongoing struggles, making for a compelling mix of sports and music insights.

Joining the conversation is Robert Iger, the legendary former CEO of The Walt Disney Company, whose leadership transformed the entertainment landscape. Iger discusses his journey and insights from his book, touching on the rise of streaming and the challenges faced by ESPN in transitioning to digital. He shares memorable anecdotes from major sporting events and reflects on the emotional connections between fans and players. The talk also delves into the importance of adaptability and innovation in an ever-evolving media industry.

Ryen Russillo, a prominent sports analyst and co-host, joins the conversation to dissect the frantic activity leading up to the NBA trade deadline. They dive into desperate trades and the implications of players like Andrew Wiggins and D'Angelo Russell changing teams. The duo also reflects on the emotional turbulence surrounding Mookie Betts' controversial trade from the Red Sox to the Dodgers, sparking discussions on fan connections and the challenges of saying goodbye to sports icons. Expect insightful analysis mixed with humorous banter!

Brian Koppelman, the filmmaker behind Billions and a die-hard Knicks fan, shares his thoughts on the franchise's turmoil, exploring potential leadership changes and the Knicks' legacy in NYC basketball. Film critic Wesley Morris dives into Oscar favorites and critiques 2019's cinematic disappointments, emphasizing the art of storytelling. Lastly, Claire Danes reflects on her iconic roles from My So-Called Life to Homeland, discussing her journey through child fame and the evolution of television narratives.

Dive into the intense Super Bowl showdown as the hosts debate if the 49ers crumbled or the Chiefs rose to victory. Expect laughs from a pregame comedy skit and humorous betting blunders. There's a spotlight on the star-studded halftime show featuring Shakira and J-Lo. Listeners will enjoy insights into coaching strategies and critical game moments, alongside light-hearted family anecdotes and reflections on the football season. Get ready for a blend of sport analysis and comedic banter!

Peter Schrager, an NFL Network personality, joins Cousin Sal, a sports betting expert, and Joe House, a frequent commentator, to dissect the upcoming Super Bowl between the Chiefs and the 49ers. They debate Jimmy Garoppolo's underdog status and potential MVPs like Kelce and Kittle. Sal shares quirky prop bets from Miami, while Joe reminisces about Kobe Bryant's legacy. The trio dives into high-stakes betting strategies and the intertwining narratives of sport, offering humorous insights and thoughtful predictions.

HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by J.A. Adande to discuss what Kobe Bryant meant to Los Angeles, sports fans, and a whole generation of basketball players. They also discuss some of their favorite Kobe moments, news coverage of the tragedy, and more (2:05). Then Bill is joined by Zane Lowe, Nathan Hubbard, and Joe House to discuss the future of music, the return of vinyl, today's most popular artists, album structure, and more (58:05). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A heartfelt tribute explores Kobe Bryant's profound impact on basketball and culture. The conversation dives into the emotional complexities of his legacy and the personal connections fans felt towards him. Insights into his leadership and his evolution from athlete to mentor are shared, emphasizing his enduring relevance. The speakers reflect on his transformative journey and the legacy he left behind, touching on his unwavering work ethic and mentoring of young players. Together, they navigate the lasting sorrow and admiration following his passing.