The Bill Simmons Podcast

Bill Simmons and Cousin Sal dive into NFL predictions and betting strategies for the AFC, discussing teams' win totals and the evolving receiver dynamics of the Patriots. They explore rookie performances, emergency travel tips for sports fans, and reflect on recent quarterback retirements. With humor, they debate MVP picks, analyze betting lines, and share parenting anecdotes that intersect with youth sports. The discussion features lively insights on playoff prospects and the anticipation for the new football season.

Kyle Brandt, NFL Network's dynamic personality, shares insights on the ripple effects of Andrew Luck's unexpected retirement and makes bold predictions for the NFL season. He discusses the changing landscape of athlete 'second acts.' Meanwhile, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Emmy-winning actress renowned for her roles in Seinfeld and Veep, opens up about her experiences as a sports parent and shares humorous anecdotes from her time on SNL. The conversation delves into the challenges of parenting in competitive sports and reflects on the intersections of comedy and athletics.

David Spade, the hilarious actor known for his 'SNL' roots and comedy films, chats about his iconic career and enduring friendship with Norm Macdonald. He shares insights on 'Grown Ups' and his new show on Comedy Central. Meanwhile, Nathan Hubbard, former CEO of Ticketmaster, weighs in on the music industry, focusing on Taylor Swift's latest album and her career evolution. The unexpected retirement of Andrew Luck stirs up discussions about athlete well-being and fan reactions, bringing a blend of nostalgia and modern sports dilemmas.

Mina Kimes, an ESPN writer and podcaster, shares her vibrant insights on the NFL and beyond. She dives into the evolving dynamics of quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Russell Wilson, examining their impact on team relationships. Kimes discusses the increasing role of analytics in sports, as well as the importance of authentic narratives in sports journalism. With a blend of humor and keen observations, she also reflects on the challenges women face in sports media, making for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation.

Joining the conversation are Stephen A. Smith, the fiery ESPN commentator, and Wesley Morris, a Pulitzer Prize-winning critic from The New York Times. Stephen A. dives into the dynamics of NBA superteams, reflecting on the Knicks' struggles and the evolving landscape of player loyalties. He shares insights on player sacrifices shaping championship teams. Wesley shifts gears to tackle 2019's TV offerings, analyzing hits like 'Euphoria' and 'Succession', while discussing the deeper narratives of today's storytelling and its societal impacts.

Join Kevin Wildes, Bill Simmons's longtime friend and former ESPN colleague, and Mallory Rubin, a Contributor to The Ringer, as they dive into a hilarious discussion of half-baked ideas like basketball batting cages and indoor whitewater rafting. They also engage in a rivalry over summer foods, reminiscing about corn, ice cream, and classic ballpark hot dogs while poking fun at modern food delivery. The playful banter and lively debates make for an entertaining exploration of culinary delights and whimsical innovations.

Matthew Berry, an ESPN fantasy football expert known for his engaging insights, joins to dissect the 2019 fantasy football landscape. They delve into high-stakes leagues, drafting strategies, and analyze key players like Alvin Kamara and Saquon Barkley. The conversation also touches on the quarterback dilemma, the excitement of auction drafts, and the evolving nature of fantasy sports. Additionally, they share humorous nostalgia while reflecting on the recent '90210' reboot, combining insights on football with lighthearted banter about TV classics.

Brian Windhorst, an ESPN reporter celebrated for his insights into LeBron James and the NBA, shares his experiences with Team USA and standout talents like Jayson Tatum and Donovan Mitchell. The conversation dives into the playoff prospects for the Utah Jazz and the fiery rivalry between the Lakers and Clippers. Windhorst also predicts the upcoming season for LeBron and discusses evolving player dynamics and the impact of social media in the NBA landscape.

Wesley Morris, a Pulitzer Prize-winning critic for The New York Times, joins the conversation to dissect Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood.' They explore Brad Pitt's star power and how his performance marks a turning point in his career. Morris highlights Margot Robbie's portrayal of Sharon Tate, showcasing her innocence in a tumultuous era. The duo also delves into the film's nostalgic recreation of 1960s Hollywood, tackling themes of masculinity and societal critiques that lie beneath the surface.

Sarah Silverman, a powerful voice in comedy and actress known for her sharp wit, joins to share insights on the evolving landscape of stand-up and television. They dive into the challenges of cancel culture, the typecasting of women in Hollywood, and the importance of artistic risk-taking. Silverman humorously connects comedy with her love for basketball, reflecting on live performances and personal anecdotes. The conversation also tackles media representation, social media engagement, and the absurdities of public discourse, providing a candid look into her creative journey.