

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

Sep 30, 2020 • 1h 57min
Miami’s Upset Potential, Clippers Chaos, the Villainous Astros, and MLB Bubble Playoff Picks With Jackie MacMullan and CC Sabathia
Join renowned sports journalist Jackie MacMullan and former MLB pitcher CC Sabathia as they dive into the chaotic world of playoffs. Jackie discusses the Clippers' coaching changes and outlines Miami's strategic edge against the Lakers in the Finals. CC shares insights on the intense MLB playoffs, explores the Yankees' performance, and suggests ways to refresh baseball for modern fans. Expect engaging predictions, playful rivalry discussions, and a deep dive into the evolving dynamics of sports leadership.

Sep 28, 2020 • 1h 38min
Miami vs. LeBron, Trubisky’s Farewell, a Pissed-Off Rodgers and Lots of Falcon Poop with Cousin Sal
Explore the Celtics' disappointing playoff exit and Miami's rise as a contender. Dive into a lively analysis of NFL matchups, including the Saints' loss and the Bears' surprising 3-0 start. Hear about controversial calls affecting game outcomes and the struggles of aging quarterbacks. Predictions for the upcoming week feature heartfelt humor alongside analytics. Plus, enjoy amusing family stories that highlight the chaos of balancing fantasy sports with parenting. It's a mix of sports insights and lighthearted personal anecdotes!

Sep 25, 2020 • 1h 56min
LeBron 4.0, Miami’s Herro Complex, Harden for Embiid (?) Plus Week 3 NFL Picks with Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst and podcast co-host known for his deep insights on basketball and football, joins the conversation to dissect the Lakers' playoff performance and officiating challenges faced by stars like LeBron James. They also dive into trade rumors surrounding James Harden and Joel Embiid, examining the implications for their teams. Transitioning to football, Russillo shares key betting strategies and previews exciting NFL matchups, blending humor with sharp analysis on player performance and public perception.

Sep 23, 2020 • 2h 5min
The LeBron-Davis Tandem, Denver’s Big Rally, Desus & Mero, and Jeff Daniels
Desus Nice and The Kid Mero, the dynamic duo behind the Emmy-nominated 'Desus & Mero,' share their witty takes on life in NYC during the pandemic, the quirks of remote production, and their new book filled with Bronx life lessons. Acclaimed actor Jeff Daniels discusses his cinematic journey, touching on iconic roles in 'Dumb and Dumber' and 'The Newsroom,' while reflecting on the art of performance. The trio dives into the thrilling Lakers-Nuggets playoff match-up, exploring the legendary partnership of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Sep 21, 2020 • 1h 43min
Russ vs. Cam, Atlanta’s Pain, Murray’s Leap, the Annoying Lakers, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Dive into nail-biting NFL comebacks, including a dramatic game between the Seahawks and Patriots, plus a miracle from the Cowboys against the Falcons. The hosts analyze rookie quarterback Justin Herbert’s standout moments and discuss the injury woes affecting multiple teams. Frustrations abound for the Falcons, while the Bears’ surprising season unfolds. Shift gears to NBA dynamics and the ongoing MVP race, peppered with humor and personal anecdotes, providing a holistic look at sports and parenting challenges.

Sep 18, 2020 • 1h 37min
Boston’s Flop, Riley’s Genius and Denver’s Cinderella Story with Jackie MacMullan, Plus Shorting the Jets
Jackie MacMullan, a veteran sports journalist renowned for her basketball insights, joins to dissect the Boston Celtics' playoff struggles against the Miami Heat and explore Miami's strategic brilliance. She highlights Nikola Jokic's exceptional talent compared to legends like Larry Bird and shares her thoughts on the evolving landscape of sports journalism. The conversation also touches on the significance of player dynamics and resilience in sports, wrapping up with Bill's betting picks for the NFL weekend.

Sep 16, 2020 • 2h 1min
The Great Jokic, a Total Clipocalypse, Panic Trades, and Kemba Search Parties with Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, sports analyst and podcast co-host, joins the conversation to dissect the Clippers’ shocking game seven collapse against the Nuggets. He shares insights on how this ranks among NBA playoff failures and discusses the Nuggets' matchup with the Lakers. The duo also breaks down the Heat's surprising victory over the Celtics, examines potential panic trades for the Clippers, and delves into player performances, including the pressures on Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, shaping future trade considerations.

Sep 14, 2020 • 1h 38min
Cam Thrives, Brady Flounders, Best NFL Overreactions, and Guess the Lines With Cousin Sal
Join an entertaining discussion on the NFL's wild first week, featuring the Cowboys' heartbreaking loss to the Rams and Cam Newton's intriguing debut with the Patriots. Dive into humorous gambling tales and the unpredictability of the league, while reflecting on the impact of fan absence during games. The hosts also analyze Tom Brady's struggles amidst Tampa Bay's team woes and spotlight the Arizona Cardinals' impressive showings this season. Plus, engage in some light-hearted bets and parenting confessions for a fun twist!

Sep 11, 2020 • 1h 52min
The Scarier Chiefs, Week 1 NFL Picks, Kyle “The Villain” Lowry, and Coach Steve Nash With Raja Bell
Raja Bell, a former NBA player known for his defensive skills, joins the discussion, diving into the Celtics-Raptors series with fascinating insights. He highlights the Raptors' effective defense and the strategic brilliance of emerging teams like Miami. The conversation also touches on new Nets head coach Steve Nash and the challenges he faces. Additionally, they explore innovative basketball tactics and the impact of coaching strategies on playoff outcomes. Bell’s perspectives provide a thrilling glimpse into the competitive world of basketball.

Sep 9, 2020 • 1h 57min
Playoff Rondo, Tompa Bay, NFL Sleepers, and Guess the Lines Week 1 With Cousin Sal
Discover the thrilling dynamics of the Lakers-Rockets playoff series, where Rondo's presence swings momentum. Dive into the excitement as the NFL season approaches, with standout storylines about Tom Brady's transition to Tampa Bay. Enjoy a spirited discussion on risky betting lines for Week 1 and the potential sleepers to watch, including the intriguing Denver Broncos. The hilarity of fantasy football rivalries adds a personal touch amid insightful predictions and strategies that keep the competition lively. End with a humorous glance at family chaos and virtual schooling.


