The Bill Simmons Podcast

Ryen Russillo, a seasoned sports radio host now at The Ringer, joins the conversation to tackle fascinating topics. They dive into Tom Brady’s aging career and his relationship with the Patriots. The discussion shifts to Ezekiel Elliott's potential holdout and the financial complexities of NFL contracts versus their NBA counterparts. Insightful thoughts on LeBron James’s influence in the NBA and the evolving dynamics between players and fans are also shared. Plus, they tease exciting collaborations on the horizon!

Kara Swisher, a prominent tech journalist, joins for a captivating discussion on the evolution of technology and social media. She reflects on her early internet experiences and the impact of major tech companies, like Facebook, on society. The conversation dives into the cultural influence of science fiction on tech, while also questioning accountability in leadership. They tackle Disney’s content dominance and its effects on innovation. Swisher emphasizes the need for ethical standards as technology continues to evolve, providing her insights on future industry challenges.

Chuck Klosterman, a prominent author known for his fresh takes on pop culture, shares insights on navigating book tours in the age of selfies and social media. He discusses the complex intersections of sports and politics at ESPN, particularly through LeBron James’s public parenting. The conversation dives into the cultural legacy of figures like Charles Manson, while reflecting on music evolution from classic rock to modern influences. Klosterman also contemplates the societal ramifications of UFOs and the ideal presidential candidate, making for an engaging blend of humor and thought.

In this engaging discussion, JackO—a seasoned sports commentator—delves into the heated Yankees-Red Sox rivalry and the nuances of MLB trade deadlines. He also humorously critiques the chaotic Democratic primary landscape. Joining him, Michael Rubin, the savvy owner of Fanatics and part-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, shares insights into sports team ownership and the evolving world of sports merchandise, including real-time production and combating counterfeit goods. Together, they navigate the intersections of sports, politics, and media.

Actor Kevin Costner, known for his iconic roles in films like Dances with Wolves and Field of Dreams, shares behind-the-scenes insights from his Hollywood career. He reflects on the challenges of filmmaking, casting stories from Bull Durham, and the delicate balance between creative integrity and financial pressures. Costner also dives into the emotional connection baseball movies have with audiences, celebrating Field of Dreams' lasting impact. Alongside this, discussions touch on navigating fame's pressures and the importance of self-confidence in acting.

Kevin Bacon, a celebrated actor with a career spanning over 40 years, shares captivating stories from his Hollywood journey. He reflects on the cultural impact of 'Footloose' and the hilarities faced during its production. The duo also discusses the changing dynamics of fame and the pressures of the entertainment industry. Bacon dives into the production struggles of 'Tremors' and highlights the iconic roles that defined his career. Alongside these personal anecdotes, they explore nostalgic themes that showcase the evolution of cinema.

Kevin O’Connor, an insightful NBA writer for The Ringer, joins Amanda Dobbins and Chris Ryan to dive into Chris Paul's uncertain future and the complexities of upcoming NBA trades, including the much-discussed Kawhi Leonard deal. The trio also tackles the Netflix dilemma, examining its declining engagement strategies amid a fierce streaming landscape. They humorously address the impact of 'stream adultery' on relationships and reflect on their favorite summer TV shows, blending sports analysis with pop culture insights.

Joining the conversation is Zach Lowe, an ESPN writer and host of The Lowe Post, celebrated for his sharp NBA insights. They dive into Russell Westbrook’s impact post-trade to the Rockets, exploring his fit alongside James Harden. The discussion shifts to Chris Paul's uncertain future and the MVP race, spotlighting candidates like Anthony Davis and Damian Lillard. They also touch on youth sports specialization and its effects on athlete longevity, while assessing team strategies, including the Knicks' unconventional lineup.

In this engaging discussion, actor and comedian Kumail Nanjiani, known for 'Silicon Valley' and 'The Big Sick,' chats about the unexpected trade of Russell Westbrook for Chris Paul. He shares insights into his experiences in stand-up comedy, the challenges of getting older, and his passion for horror films. Nanjiani also reflects on navigating the film industry, contrasting the pressures of creativity and commercial success. With a sprinkle of humor, the conversation touches on technology's impact on storytelling and modern culture.

Shea Serrano, a renowned writer and commentator from The Ringer, joins the discussion, sharing his insights on Kawhi Leonard’s game-changing decision and its ripple effects on the NBA. The trio dives into Russell Westbrook's trade possibilities and his potential fits with various teams, sparking a lively debate. They also reminisce about their favorite bank heist movies and craft the ultimate heist crew. Finally, they chat about the changing Vegas casino culture and the emotional depth of the hit show 'Euphoria,' showcasing a blend of sports, cinema, and nostalgia.