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Have you ever looked back on your childhood dreams and wondered how they’ve evolved over time? Join us as we wish Lindsay a happy 41st birthday and journey through some nostalgic memories, including the excitement of childhood anticipation and how our perspectives shift with age. We also transport you back to the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and unpack the gripping story of Richard Jewell and the delayed preparations, leading up to the dramatic capture of the real bomber, Eric Rudolph. This segment serves as a reminder that while some things change, others remain hauntingly the same.

From the sports arena, we move to the quirky world of game shows and true crime, focusing on a "Family Feud" contestant who ended up convicted of a serious crime. We share a laugh over amusing family names and debate what luxuries we’d want in a prison cell, all while reflecting on the dark irony of life. With light-hearted banter, we also examine the costume choices on family-oriented TV shows, talking about the cultural representation through clothing—sometimes spot-on, often hilariously off the mark.

Later, we take you on a nostalgic stroll through the Lower East Side of old Brooklyn and 19th-century Poland, painting a vivid picture of everyday life—complete with the knife sharpener and the Iceman. We round off our episode with a lively chat about the Mediterranean diet, some tennis chatter from the French Open, and the historical significance of Cinco de Mayo. Finally, we reflect on the unity and strength of the Israeli community, emphasizing the importance of faith and resilience. This episode is a tapestry of memories, laughter, and poignant reflections, all woven together with a sense of heritage and timelessness.

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Ever fallen head over heels for a TV show you initially had zero interest in? That's exactly what happened to me with "The Last of Us" on Max. Despite my initial ignorance of its video game origins, the show's pandemic parallels and gripping storyline kept me glued to the screen. We'll also talk about the never-ending confusion between HBO and MAX, my gaming aversion, and the nostalgic joy of 80s music, all while managing the daily grind of pool and hot tub maintenance and an ever-growing list of streaming subscriptions.

Switching gears, we dive into the historical drama "Mary and George" on Starz, where Julianne Moore delivers a mesmerizing performance. We can't help but ponder the trend of explicit content in historical fiction, drawing a curious comparison to shows like "Bridgerton." And of course, we spotlight Pedro Pascal, the man of the moment with roles in "The Mandalorian," "Narcos," "Game of Thrones," and his stellar turn in "The Last of Us." From his "slutty daddy" persona to the explosion of merchandise inspired by his characters, Pascal is undeniably Hollywood's current "it" guy.

But that's not all! We also explore the rich tapestry of the historical drama "Franklin" with Michael Douglas, unpacking its romance, historical accuracy, and top-notch production values. Then, we touch on the latest controversies surrounding Diddy, and share our mixed feelings on the enduring saga of "Grey's Anatomy." We delve into the hurdles of obtaining diabetes meds, speculate on the wealth of "Grey's" cast members, and pay a heartfelt tribute to Marianne Robinson, Michelle Obama's mother, with a special musical homage. This episode is bursting with TV show insights, celebrity gossip, and touching tributes—don't miss it!

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Ever wondered how the term "geek" evolved from its circus origins to encompass today's tech-savvy, fandom-driven enthusiasts? We take a stroll down memory lane, unpacking the term's complex past and acknowledging the mixed legacy of circus sideshows. Our conversation includes a poignant reflection on Katherine Dunn's "Geek Love," a tale that dives into the heart of a circus family and their offbeat dynamics. I also get personal, sharing my recent eye injection ordeal, which, believe it or not, connects back to the historical view of physical differences.

Life throws us curveballs, and in this episode, we catch a few, sharing heartfelt messages and well wishes to friends navigating through them. From recollections of Miichael's military days, including his friend Ed, who took a few stints as a town clown, to dealing with the gnawing frustration of chronic back pain and the pursuit of medical relief, we traverse a landscape of resilience and camaraderie. We're also cheering on our listeners, Artemis and Joselyn, urging them to keep turning those pages and to fill us in on their life's latest chapters.

As the episode winds down, we chat about the eclectic mix of topics that somehow interweave in our lives—like securing that elusive summer reservation or the anticipation of Eurovision's latest hits. I spotlight a "Peruvian" restaurant's exceptional eggplant rollatini, a taste that lingers long after the meal, and discuss "Hurricane" by Eden Golan, Israel's vibrant contribution to Eurovision. It's a reminder of the unifying power of music, and how, amid the ups and downs, the right song can feel like a shared heartbeat across the globe. Join us for this journey of stories, empathy, and a shared love for the little things that connect us all.

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As we crank up the volume with a throwback to Big Pig's iconic track, Breakaway, it's remarkable how a single song can transport us through time—this episode is an audio time capsule just waiting to be unwrapped for probably one person alone. Music isn't just background noise; it's the soundtrack to our lives, a thread connecting us to the moments that define us. Come along for the ride as we share stories of cross-country journeys, a nod to the adventurous spirit we all harbor, and the undeniable mix of excitement and challenge that tagging along can bring.

It's not every day that a Jerry Seinfeld routine gets overshadowed, but when protests erupt at a Duke University commencement, it deserves a closer look. We wade into the tangled web of political expression and the delicate lines that, when crossed, kick up dust around anti-Semitism and free speech. Anne displays her animosity toward pickleball just on general principles, Later, we find solace and celebration at a memorial service for my beloved friend David Wallace, where emotions run deep, and the passage of time is palpable through the ever-evolving art of parenting, the eternal nature of friendships, and the way music brings us all together.

Down in New Orleans, before Katrina left her mark, I discovered the true meaning of 'joie de vivre'—a blend of family ties, local flavor, and the kind of mix-ups that turn into treasured anecdotes. In homage to my six-decade-long friendship with David, we let the soulful groove of Earth, Wind & Fire carry us through a city that, much like the beauty of enduring relationships, stands resilient against the tests of time. Finally, a reminder of the small victories in life—like the perfect fit of Spanx trousers Artemis—and the immeasurable worth of reconnecting with old pals. Wherever your journey takes you, the stories shared here are sure to strike a something.

Also, most of this description was written by AI, taking my job.

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Have you ever stumbled upon a word that delightfully encapsulates those all-too-human moments? The German language is rich with such terms, and on our latest episode, we journey through the intricate dance of linguistics to uncover the charm behind words like "Treppenwitz" and "Kummerspeck". Our conversation takes an amusing turn as we share anecdotes of personal encounters with these linguistic gems, and we invite you to laugh along at the precision with which they narrate life's peculiar experiences.

The buzz around a new TV show or film can fade faster than a shooting star, and we've all felt that waning interest after an initial infatuation. I engage in a heart-to-heart about the shows and movies that captured our hearts only to release them just as quickly, from classics like "Petticoat Junction" to modern hits like "Ted Lasso". Heidi Gardner who KILLED on the "Beavis & Butthead" sketch on SNL, is applauded for bringing her comedic genius to the Cape Cod production of "Noises Off."

We then pivot to more serious terrain as we discuss the powerful interview with Brittany Griner by Robin Roberts, diving into the challenges and triumphs of Griner's journey. Moreover, we unpack the complexities of global events, such as the Eurovision Song Contest's decision regarding Israel, and reflect on the deeper implications of such actions. Whether it's through laughter or solemn discussion, our episode aims to connect, enlighten, and leave you with a sense of hope in the nuanced tapestry of the human narrative.

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We're shaking off the cobwebs of yesteryear and embracing the dawn of a new day with a touch of mischief and a whole lot of heart. This episode is a ramble through the quaint traditions of May Day, where we muse about the charm of leaving flowers on doorsteps and dodging the ever-watchful eye of modern doorbell cameras. Amidst the chuckles, we share a curious tale about Jonathan Howard Greenwood, a dweebish character from my past whose mysterious occupation had us all scratching our heads. And as we plot to get the local kids roped into our floral caper, we explore the threads of community that bind us in unexpected ways.

Turning the page to a more sobering chapter, things take a dramatic twist with the revelation of a less-than-welcome houseguest. Strap in as I recount the tense moments of confronting Jonathan Howard Greenwood's deceit, from his unauthorized financial antics to the disturbing discovery of multiple passports that hinted at a darker narrative. This gripping story serves as a stark reminder about the importance of trust, the necessity of involving authorities when things go sour, and the protective steps one must sometimes take to safeguard their peace.

As we round off the conversation, we pivot to the lighter topic of the Coen Brothers' eclectic filmography, dissecting their unique storytelling from the apocalyptic comedy of "This Is the End" to the existential quandaries of "A Serious Man." We'll debate the merits of "Raising Arizona" and express our unabashed enthusiasm for Nicolas Cage's idiosyncratic roles—even if the titles of his latest endeavors momentarily escape us. And as we bid you adieu with a playful hum of "So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish," this episode promises to be a blend of hilarity, reflection, and the unshakable spirit of community that defines us.

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Your guide, Anne Levine, Happy to be here, Beef with Artemis (Factual), Apologizing for the Peanuts, Weight loss, Women's Clothing Sizes (Wtf), How to find both your size and the best deal for new clothes, Spanx trousers, Working the System, The cricket onslaught, Miscreant Mice and Creepy Flying Squirrels.
Plus: Parish (TV on AMC - Must-See new series), Professor of Rock (YouTube), Michael McDonald & Kenny Loggins, Back to Artemis, Everybody is turning 78, and helping Steven Tyler choose yogurt at Whole Foods.

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Happy birthday Joselyn! Anne the Office Manager, Many things to realize about Anne, Anne the Expert Gift Giver, The Shopping Genius of Anne Levine, Stuff Anne has given Michael (Made-In Cookware), Another very big present, Anne goes to the Eye Doctor (Human pincushion stories), The New Doctor, Sticky Stuff in your Eye, Shopping Blind (Literally), and The Incident at the Lighthouse.

Plus: Passover, The "new" Manishewitz Packaging, Seder Stuff, WINE WINE WINE WINE, Ryan NOT REYNOLDS on SNL, Saturday Night Live Casting Craziness, Joselyn is moving to Oregon, and Israel/Iran stuff.