Explain Boston to Me
145 episodes — Page 1 of 3
Boston's Spaghetti Streets with Andy Woodruff
Explain Boston to Me LIVE! at the Athenaeum
Mythbusting in Boston's Chinatown with Richard Auffrey
Don't Take Fenway Park for Granted with Glenn Stout
Roxbury with Dr. Rufus J. Faulk
Ep 140The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Heist with Geoff Kelly
The biggest art theft in history remains unsolved — but the former lead FBI agent on the case has some theories. That would be Geoff Kelly, author of the new book, Thirteen Perfect Fugitives: The True Story of the Mob, Murder, and the World's Largest Art Heist. He's here to tell us about what went down at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum on the night of March 18, 1990. John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum $80!!!!! Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 139John and Abigail Adams with Audrey Stuck-Girard
We're going deep on Boston's very own founding father. John Adams — and his wife Abigail — had a powerful impact on our nascent nation, even if Lin Manuel Miranda decided to yada yada his contributions. Helping us talk through this fascinating history is return guest Audrey Stuck-Girard. The Phanatic goes Colonial. Jordan's Furniture makes another big bet. EBtM: The Great Turkey Invasion. Listen to Cory Branan. Also, ME on Cory for the Nashville Scene back in 2012. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 138A new look at Irish immigration to Boston with Hidetaka Hirota
In this episode, we're talking about the wave of Irish immigrants that arrived in Boston in the 19th century — and how the response to their arrival led to policies and prejudices with an enduring impact on the region and the nation. Helping us talk through these thorny issues is Professor Hidetaka Hirota, author of Expelling the Poor: Atlantic Seaboard States and the Nineteenth-Century Origins of American Immigration Policy. RIP Isaiah Zagar. Philly versus the Robots. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 137Tufts University with Mark Buccella & Hannah Jiang
It's the first of our long-anticipated 'Local Colleges' series. We're chatting about Tufts University with alum Mark Buccella and senior Hannah Jiang. They let me in on the campus culture, the storied traditions, and the Jumbo of it all. Plus, a Gillette Stadium traffic rant and info on the first EBtM live event. Come see Explain Boston to Me LIVE at the Athenaeum! Tesiny is fire. "Everybody Hurts" Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 136Stuck in Boston traffic with Chris Dempsey and Jeff Speck (REWIND)
Boston was once declared the most congested metropolitan region in the country. So, yes, the traffic here is terrible — but what can we do about it? How can we change the structural incentives that keep people in their cars? Hint: the answer is not bigger roads. To traverse the conversational terrain of transit, congestion pricing, gas taxes, and bike lanes, we're joined by Chris Dempsey and Jeff Speck, the men behind the urban design firm Speck Dempsey. These guys really know what they're talking about, even if they've never seen the Cameron Crowe classic Singles. This conversation took place in April 2024 Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 135Inside Boston's Private Clubs with Ken Turino
We're going behind the doors of Boston's private clubs, a key part of the city's social life since the 19th century. Serving as our tour guide is Ken Turino, a member of the St. Botolph Club and The 'Quin House. What is the enduring appeal of these institutions? How are they modernizing? And what does their resurgence say about contemporary life? V.J. Edgecombe goes into the seats. The President's House gets its signs back. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 134The Puritans were misunderstood with Lori Rogers-Stokes
In this episode, we're reconsidering the Puritans with historian Lori Rogers-Stokes, author of Gathered Into a Church: Indigenous-English Congregationalism in Woodland New England. So much to learn! And so much to unlearn! This devout group of colonists had a tremendous influence on the culture and governance of New England, and the stereotypes don't do them justice. This one is a banger! Self-unite in Pennsylvania! Thanks, Quakers. The Simpsons go to Philadelphia. The Gold Medal-winning U.S. women's hockey team has a Boston flavor. Go to Comfort Kitchen! Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 133Jamaica Plain with Gretchen Grozier
In this episode, we're chatting about a Jamaica Plain, a beloved and eclectic Boston neighborhood. Longtime resident and amateur historian Gretchen Grozier talks about the area's long history, its major landmarks, and its particular charms. Zach Wheeler has rib in closet. (Bryce Harper removes blood.) Reading "Iced Coffees" Jordan's Furniture loves making sports bets. Norwegian skier crashes out. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 132South Shore Bar Pizza with Josh Davis
In this episode, guest Josh Davis is helping us go deep on a regional specialty: South Shore Bar Pizza. What makes a good one? What are some of the top spots? Where does this particular style fit in the pizza pantheon? Mexican pizza in Philly. 30 for 30: Philly Special trailer. Jordon Hudson! The shade!!!! Latest Ben Affleck Dunkin Super Bowl ad. Blech. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 131The Boston Massacre with Daniel Berger-Jones and John J King
Let's call this the "time is a flat circle" episode. Daniel Berger-Jones and John J King from the Get Shocked podcast and Boston History Company are here to talk about the Boston Massacre. We discuss the myths behind this seminal Revolutionary era event, clashes between occupiers and the occupied, local proclivities towards self-government, and the moments throughout history when theoretical violence becomes real violence. Yup. RIP Dan McQuade. (The beloved compilation he created.) WBUR on local animal weather forecasters. Cape Cod potato chips factory closes. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 130400 years of Boston's seaport with James O'Connell
In this episode, we're joined by James O'Connell, a professor at BU and author of the book, Boston and the Making of a Global City. He explains how the city's port opened it up to the world, transformed its economy, and shaped its culture. In short, Boston would not be the city it is without this vital connection. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 129Boston is a seafood town LIVE at Wulf's Fish
We're doing something a little different this week, heading down to record on location at Wulf's Fish in the Seaport. Richard Taylor and Desiree Antczak (Wulf's) and Bill Mantia (John Mantia & Sons) share their insights on Boston's seafood industry — how it has evolved, what it means to the city, and how it endures next to some of the priciest real estate in the country. With special guest Dylan Gottlieb! Snapper Soup is a Philly tradition. Sad baseball corner. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 128The Beanpot with Tom Burke
In this episode, we're exploring one of Boston's most storied and beloved traditions: The Beanpot. This annual tournament brings the college hockey programs from Boston University, Boston College, Harvard and Northeastern together for an epic clash. I'm joined by local sports maven Tom Burke — his family owned the Celtics and Boston Garden, and plays a role in the Boston Marathon to this day — to tell me all about its origins and its evolution. He is also co-author of Tales from the Boston College Hockey Locker Room: A Collection of the Greatest Eagles Hockey Stories Ever Told. Attend the Beanpot. OMG there is a Wing Bowl doc!!! It is called "No One Died." And here is an insane Buzzfeed feature. Big Papi singing his heart out. Send me New Bedford recs. DM me on Instagram or email me. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 127State of the Show 2026
As 2026 begins, it's a great moment to check in on the state of Explain Boston to Me. In addition, we're asking for help — what else is new?? — finding guests for a slate of exciting topics. Plus, what Lee did on her winter vacation. Are you or someone you know of a good fit for these topics? DM me on Instagram or email me. Local college (for example: Harvard, Tufts, Emerson, BU, BC) The Kennedys John Adams Clam Chowder Winter Hill Gang East Boston Mattapan Jamaica Plain Any other neighborhood New Kids on the Block The Wahlberg Family Tom Brady Nantucket Summer in New England New Balance Gillette Fenway Park The Puritans The Mayflower Boston Private Clubs The Boston Massacre Irish immigration in Boston South Shore Bar Pizza Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 126Boston Movie Club: The Departed (REWIND)
In this installment of Boston Movie Club, I’m joined by Southie native and former EBtM guest Pat Toomey (check out his episode here) to chat about The Departed. I was new to this Scorcese gangster flick — cranberry juice! Nicolson in a bucket hat! Wahlberg! rats! — and was thrilled to have a local talk me through its complicated legacy. What are your thoughts on The Departed? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send along a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 125On being a Boston Brahmin with R.J. Lyman (REWIND)
Just don’t call him that! In this week’s rerun, we’re talking to lawyer, father, Bostonian and — according to some — Boston Brahmin, R.J. Lyman. He teaches us about the origins of the term, its place in local culture, its institutions, the accent, and the values that the caste espouses. Two Boston Brahmins talkin’ Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 124The Patriots are back! with Christopher Price
The show welcomes Christopher Price, Patriots beat reporter for The Boston Globe and host of "The Patriots Report" podcast. Now that the team has emerged from its — short lived — time in the wilderness, how does that impact local fandom? Where are Patriots supporters, emotionally? Also, we chat Brady, parade fatigue, and sacred Sundays in New England. My L.L. Bean "bus stop shoe" "Hello" Brady Returns promo — bonkers! Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 123Is Boston secretly an Asian food mecca? with Christian Doan aka Chopstick Murphys
In this episode, we're chatting with Christian Doan aka Chopstick Murphys about Boston's robust Asian food scene — and try determine whether or not its underrated. We also touch on the life of a food influencer, offer lots of restaurant recommendations, and bond over our mutual love of stereotypes. Follow Christian on Instagram and Tiktok. Big Shot. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 122Boston Legacy FC and women's sports in Boston with Rachel Duranwood
In this episode, we're talking about the new professional sports franchise coming to Boston. Rachel Duranwood from Boston Legacy FC yaps with me about local culture, the failed NWSL team that came before, money in women's sports, and the evolving state of women's pro soccer, both locally and nationally. It's a fun chat that goes far beyond the pitch. Oh, and we touch on the team's original botched roll out. They did have a televised reveal of Phang. Marra's closes after 98 years. The most memorable play from Monday's Patriots' game. Aquarium Bar in Valencia. Watch Listers! Listen to Chris Crofton's I'm Your Man. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 121Cranberries with Steve Ward (Happy Thanksgiving!)
It's a special Tuesday pre-holiday release! Tis the season to talk about Cranberries. Guest Steve Ward has been farming this gem-like fruit for decades. He has both a deep knowledge of the local industry and a deep love of this work. We chat about how exactly one grows cranberries, learn the secrets of the bog, and even banter about favorite recipes. Michelin Awards for Philly and Boston. Mobsters & Lobsters. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 120Larry Bird with Dan Shaughnessy
It's a legend talking about a LEGEND! In this very special episode, I'm joined by iconic Boston Globe columnist Dan Shaughnessy to talk about Larry Bird. We discuss the life of a 1970s beat writer, Bird's rivalry with Magic Johnson, and why this town remains so in love with the kid from French Lick, Indiana. Shaughnessy actually wrote a book on the Celtic superstar: Wish It Lasted Forever: Life with the Larry Bird Celtics. You can catch him Boston Globe Sports Report, in collaboration with NESN, on Mondays. The last penny. O-lineman who sing xmas songs. Charles, the local alligator. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 119Live at Mount Auburn Cemetery with Michael Kuchta and Karen Weintraub
In this very special episode, we're joined by Michael Kuchta and Karen Weintraub, authors of Born in Cambridge: 400 Years of Ideas and Innovators, for a stroll (both literal and figurative) through Mount Auburn Cemetery and its history. In part one, we chat in-studio about this iconic garden cemetery's origins. And in part two, we visit a few notable graves to get a sense of the incredible Bostonians buried there. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 118Roslindale with Adam Rogoff
In this episode, we're learning all about Roslindale, a Boston neighborhood with a deep sense of community. Talking us through its history and its character is Adam Rogoff, owner of The Substation. He spills on his favorite spots, fires some strays at JP, and flexes about sharing a neighborhood with Mayor Wu. Celebrate five years of The Substation on Friday, November 7. Talking about practice. Love Park is reborn in Sweden. "Toronto Will Never Get Over This" (Defector gift link) EBtM: The Modern Lovers & 70s Boston Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 117Eating out in Boston RIGHT NOW with Rachel Blumenthal
In this episode, we're chatting with Rachel Blumenthal, food editor of Boston Magazine, about that publication's annual Top 50 Restaurants List and what it says about local dining culture at this particular moment in time. What are the latest trends? How is the culinary geography of the city changing? Will the sticker shock ever wear off? And how do these kinds of lists make the very culture they are assessing? To celebrate the issue, Boston Magazine's Taste is happening on November 5; click here for tickets. RIP Hitchbot, 10 years later. HipHop is 55 years old. Jaylen Brown hair incident. Cheeky Spidey D. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 116Never go to Salem in October with Adam & Art Antczak (REWIND)
This week, we're revisiting an all-timer. Salem, the North Shore city with a long and complicated history, is now in the midst of a new chapter: Halloweenmania! Beginning before the first leaf even turns, its annual Halloween Happenings attracts tourists from around the globe, packing the streets and causing headaches in surrounding towns. How did it get this way? To chat about this spooky phenomenon, I'm joined by brothers Adam and Art Antczak, a couple of dudes who have lived in and around Salem for decades. “A reject from Sesame Street” — the initial reaction to Gritty. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 115Boston on the cheap with Emily Schario
Boston on the cheap — does it even exist? To answer that rich question, we're joined by Emily Schario (aka Emily.In.Boston) of The B-Side, Boston Globe's newsletter for hidden gems, exciting deals, and things-to-do. She shares her ideal budget date night, the best neighborhoods for affordable fun, and commiserates over the local happy hour ban. Want to learn more about the cost of living issues we discuss in this episode? Check out conversations on local NIMBYs, $600,000 liquor licenses, and why Boston restaurants suck. Pain. HipHop returns. Kowloon atrocity. Voyage of the Mimi Explain Boston to Me: Head of the Charles Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 114Ben Affleck with Kelli Williams
We're chatting about one of Boston's most iconic dudes with Kelli Williams of the podcast Beyond the Blinds and the Instagram account laguna_biotch. Join us as we discuss Ben Affleck's career choices, his passion for Dunkin (both the ads and the paparazzi shots), and his place in local culture. Ads starring Boston actors: Smaht Pahk, Dunkin, New Era. Affleck pap shots: Arms full of Dunkin, Smoking, Staring Out at the Ocean Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 113Brattle Street with Beth Folsom
In this episode, we're talking about Cambridge's most iconic boulevard. Beth Folsom from History Cambridge discusses Brattle Street's complicated history, its lux built environment, its role in local culture, and its aggressive turkey population. The return of the black Sixers jerseys. Calder Gardens. Those blueberry muffins. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 112Boston Movie Club: Fever Pitch
Welcome to the latest installment of Boston Movie Club where we're talking about Fever Pitch, the 2005 romcom starring Jimmy Fallon, Drew Barrymore, and the 2004 Red Sox. Joining me to dig into this divisive film is Tyler Rotman, who you might remember from EBtM: The 2004 Red Sox. We talk about Fallon as a leading man, the last-minute script changes, and why some locals loathe this movie. Here's the essay Tyler mentions: "In defense of Fever Pitch, the greatest Red Sox movie of all-time" When your baseball team loses (TikTok) "Here comes the pizza" Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 110Jordan’s Furniture with Danny Webster
It's finally happening!!!! Join me and guest Danny Webster as we discuss Jordan's Furniture, the furniture store/IMAX/eatery/ropes course/birthday party location (yup, normal) and local icon. Cooper deJean endorses Cooper Sharp. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 110Marshmallow Fluff with Sarah Dudek
We're talking about Marshmallow Fluff with artist and food obsessive Sarah Dudek. From its genesis as a door-to-door delicacy to its enshrinement as the state sandwich, this sweet treat has a story to tell. This is all in anticipation of the annual Fluff Festival, happening in Union Square, Somerville, on September 20, 2-6 p.m. Check out Sarah's work HERE. Eagles' Spit-gate. The Princess Diana looks: Harvard sweatshirt and bike shorts; Kelly green jacket. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 108The South Shore with Morgan Doherty
In this episode, we're chatting with Morgan Doherty, realtor and self-admitted townie, about her native South Shore. We discuss the essential towns, the traffic, and the strange goings on in the Bridgewater Triangle. McGlinchey’s closes. Trea Turner walks it off. Tommy Cutlets comes to town. "I feel bad for you." "I don't think about you at all." Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Try ZipRecruiter for FREE at ZipRecruiter.com/work. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 107Nancy Kerrigan, the pride of Stoneham, with Meredith Lynch
In this episode, we're talking about a local legend: Olympic silver medalist Nancy Kerrigan. Guest Meredith Lynch (@meredithmlynch on Instagram and TikTok) brings her lifelong love of this polarizing figure to the conversation as we go deep on '90s culture, "cat fights," monoculture, and Boston's figure skating scene. "Why? Whyyyyyy? Whhhhhhyyyyyy????" Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 106REWIND: Lobstah and New England's fishing legacy with Curt Brown
While I'm in Maine, enjoy this thematically appropriate episode exploring an iconic part of New England culture: Lobster. To go deep (sea) on the subject, I’m joined by Curt Brown, a Maine lobsterman and marine biologist with a passion for this industry and clawfuls of optimism for its future. Check out Sea Change: The Gulf of Maine, a NOVA Special Presentation. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 105We need to talk about Charles Sumner with Stephen Puleo
In this episode, author Stephen Puleo is helping us place Bostonian Charles Sumner on the "starting five" of American history. This well-spoken, prickly senator was one of the leading voices for abolition during the lead up to the Civil War and even earned Lincoln's ear as the president navigated a grueling chapter for the nation. Oh, and then there's the caning. Puleo's new book, The Great Abolitionist: Charles Sumner and the Fight for a More Perfect Union, is out now, and don't miss his Italian restaurant recs at the end of the ep. Yes, Philly fans threw snowballs at Santa, but there's more to the story. The Tom Brady statue is unveiled. The head is too small, right?? Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 105Boston nightlife with Corean Reynolds
What does Beantown have going on after dark? To answer that question, we're joined by Corean Reynolds, Director of Nightlife Economy for the City of Boston. She's got plenty of insight on the unique challenges and strengths of local nocturnal culture — and even some tips of her own. Love is Blind is casting in Philadelphia. Jhoan Duran's First Entrance as Phillies' closer; Matt Gelb in the Athletic on importing the entrance from Minnesota. Boston getting a WNBA team? "Dershowitz Takes Issue With Farmers' Market After Pierogi Denial" Berry Pond in Harold Parker State Forest. (Come for the nature, stay for the audible gunfire.) City of Boston's Summer Dance Party Series. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 103Martha's Vineyard with Shayla Martin
In this episode, we're talking with travel and culture writer Shayla Martin of 'The Road We Travel' Substack about her experiences on Martha's Vineyard. From Black culture and lobster rolls to Jaws Bridge and Eric Holder eating an ice cream cone, this is the perfect conversation for summer. The Eagles' obscene Super Bowl rings (and the famous Tom Brady ring photo) The race for mayor of the Somerville Community Path (yes, it's all cats) Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 102The 1960s and its protest movements in Boston with Michael Ansara
Time is a flat circle. In this episode, we're joined by Michael Ansara, author of the recently released memoir, The Hard Work of Hope, to talk about the 1960s and its mass protest movements in Boston. A community organizer and student leader at Harvard during this tumultuous era, Ansara has insight into how that historical moment roiled the region — and how its echoes reverberate today. This is a can't-miss conversation! The Phillie Phanatic riffs on the Coldplay cheating scandal The Delaware River Hot Dog man Somebody Feed Phil comes to Boston Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 101Mayor Ray Flynn with Don Gillis
In this episode, we're talking about Ray Flynn, who served as mayor of Boston from 1984-1993. As described by guest Don Gillis, author of The Battle for Boston, that decade was transformative for the city. It was an era in which the city's progressive identity was solidified and the neighborhoods were brought back into the political process. Plus, did you know Flynn almost played for the Celtics?! "That's what's in" will haunt me forever Cam Schlittler, son of a Massachusetts police chief, wins his Major League Baseball debut for the hated Yankees The Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival is coming up; here's our ep on Revere Charles River swim cancelled Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 100Tripledeckers with Matthew Dickey aka Streetscape Curator
We're talking tripledeckers, that iconic piece of the local urban fabric with Matthew Dickey, aka Streetscape Curator. What are the origins of this vernacular architectural style? How has their identity — and their residents — changed over the years? And are we ready for a tripledecker renaissance? Pork Roll Egg & Cheese Vodka Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 100Boston in mass media with Stanley Corkin
In this episode, we're chatting about how the idea of Boston — its reputation, its brand, its character — has been shaped by popular media, from movies to journalism. Joining us is Stanley Corkin, author of Boston Mass-Mediated Urban Space and Culture in the Digital Age. Step right up: 10 best walkable cities for tourists in the US In Her Shoes Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 98Market Basket Part II: Boston's very own 'Succession'-style saga with Grant Welker
We're getting the inside scoop on the latest Market Basket drama from Grant Welker, a reporter for the Boston Business Journal. Why is Arthur T. Demoulas being pushed out again? Who will take over the company? How will this impact consumers and devotees of the beloved local grocery chain? Plus, more chatter on what makes Market Basket so special, and thoughts on Karen Read and Rafael Devers. Check out EBtM's first Market Basket episode HERE (it's one of our most popular ever) The Double Slide Section 10 podcast losing it about the Rafael Devers trade "Rapper Slaine brings Hub street cred to Affleck flick Man about ‘Town’" Leaving by Roxana Robinson Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 97Boston Movie Club: The Town
Movie club is back! As a companion to last week's episode on Charlestown, we're chatting about the 2010 crime thriller "The Town," directed by and starring Ben Affleck. Dylan Gottlieb returns to the show to chat about the magic of shooting on location, Blake Lively slumming it, and our desire for a little levity. CLICK HERE to listen to EBtM: Charlestown. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 96Charlestown with Lee Eiseman
In this episode, we're joined by Lee Eiseman, who has lived in Charlestown for over 50 years. We cover a lot of ground, from the Battle of Bunker Hill (and its upcoming anniversary celebrations), to Irish immigration, to busing, to hot tips for contemporary visitors coming to the neighborhood. CLICK HERE for a list of upcoming events commemorating the Battle of Bunker Hill, including the reenactment of the monument corner stone laying. Next week: Boston Movie Club tackles The Town. Max Kepler is bae. Leave me a nice Apple Podcasts review! News from Market Basket. 250th-themed license plates from the RMV. EBtM: Catholics! Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 96Boston is uniquely obsessed with ice cream feat. Judy Herrell (REWIND)
Are people in Boston — and New England more generally — especially obsessed with ice cream? Consider this an Explain Boston to Me investigation. To help me navigate these frigid waters, I'm joined by Judy Herrell, who has been in the business for over 40 years. We talk about Steve's Ice Cream in Somerville inventing the mix-in, how the ice house begat a local passion, and the resurrection of Hydrox cookies. This episode originally ran in September 2023. Next week: Charlestown and the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill. While you wait for that ep, put these events on your calendar. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.