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Ever wondered why Olympic host cities lean into their cultural clichés? We kick off our latest episode comparing Paris’s mimes and berets to the potential cowboy flair of future Los Angeles games. We also dive into the world of women's gymnastics and artistic swimming, critiquing the need for makeup and costumes while celebrating the sheer athleticism of events like diving and synchronized swimming. Join us as we express our mixed emotions about breakdancing becoming an Olympic sport and the quirks of dressage and steeplechase.

Next, we tackle the monumental—but controversial—"cleanup" of the Seine River, where a whopping $1.5 billion spent left many disappointed. We discuss the health issues faced by swimmers, especially three sick German athletes, and marvel at Katie Ledecky's record-breaking triumphs. With the U.S. topping the medal charts, we relive the thrilling victories of American basketball teams over France and the scenic Paris marathon while praising Canadian pole vaulter Alysha Newman and her lipstick. Plus, don't miss the inspiring story of a Turkish pistol shooter who braved the competition without fancy protective gear.

Shifting gears, we explore the unexpected trend of tweens splurging on luxurious skincare products at Sephora. Where do these young shoppers get the funds, and do they really need peptide creams at such a tender age? We share our film recommendations, "Daddy-O" and "Janet Planet," for their unique storytelling and compelling performances. We wrap up by celebrating Israel's Olympic feats, with a brief yet heartfelt interlude in Hebrew. Tune in for a mix of sports, culture, and cinematic insights!

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In this lively episode, we celebrate Kate Steinberg’s birthday and discuss food cravings that will make your mouth water, from fresh laffa to the evolution of garnishes (such as the surprising role parsley plays on your dinner plate). Join us as we debate whether those decorative green sprigs should be eaten or disappear from altogether, sharing personal anecdotes and humorous (and not so humorous) dining experiences. We also ponder the delicate balance between food presentation and practicality in today’s culinary world. Plus: Watch Netflix's Unlocked and it's also worth seeing Young Woman and the Sea.

Why do men get away with wrinkled shirts while women dress to impress? We dive into the contrasting fashion norms between the genders (like cargo shorts that go BELOW THE KNEE), moving on to marvel at the astonishing physical feats of Olympic gymnasts like Simone Biles. Learn about the unexpected height differences among athletes and challenge your perceptions about celebrity statures with our amusing commentary on Tom Cruise, blending fashion insights, athletic admiration, and quirky observations..

From concrete impressions of Sylvester Stallone's tiny hands to the enormous significance of community radio, this episode is a meandering journey through unexpected topics. Discover that New York City is statistically safer than Oklahoma City, and hear our heartfelt support for community radio stations like WOMR and WFMR. We also share our enthusiasm for the Olympics, reminisce about historical achievements by female athletes, and explore the significance of tablecloths. With TV show recommendations and nostalgic reflections, this episode promises nothing but might have some humor, insight, and a touch of nostalgia.

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We fondly remember the legendary Bob Newhart, whose recent passing has led us to reflect on his monumental contributions to comedy. From playing a sharp-witted psychiatrist, to a cartoonist (Bob), to a charming Vermont innkeeper, Newhart's TV shows brought laughter and memorable characters like Larry, Daryl, and Daryl into our homes. We also take a trip down memory lane to the era of comedy records, celebrating how pioneers like Newhart, Richard Pryor, Bill Cosby, and Don Rickles turned their stand-up routines into vinyl treasures, creating an intimate and unforgettable listening experience.

Switching to a more personal note, we recount Anne's delightful birthday celebration that started with poolside fun and culminated in a gastronomic adventure at restaurant Leonessa (the loudest, most uncomfortable restaurant ever). Picture this: savoring a sumptuous burrata appetizer, then trying very loudly to converse over the din of what sounds like 300 teenagers all talking at once while celebrating with friends. Adding a tech twist to the festivities, Anne received a pair of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, opening up new possibilities from photo-taking to language translation. It was a night to remember, filled with great food, laughter, and a touch of modern magic.

But life isn't just about celebrations; it’s also about cherishing the memories of those we've lost. In our heartfelt closing chapter, we share poignant reflections on the deep sorrow of missing loved ones, especially those taken from us during the summer. Through lyrics and memories of past gatherings, we explore the enduring connections that remain despite physical absence. Finally, we leave you with some viewing recommendations: the Netflix series "Unlocked" and the inspiring film "Sing Sing," featuring Clarence Macklin. Tune in for a rich blend of nostalgia, celebration, and heartfelt reflection.

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Join us for an emotional tribute to the legendary Dr. Ruth Westheimer, who recently passed away at the age of 96. We reminisce about her trailblazing radio show, "Sexually Speaking," recalling personal stories such as our friend Patrick's memorable call-in where he sought her advice on his sexuality and health issues. We celebrate Dr. Ruth's incredible journey from escaping the Holocaust to becoming a celebrated advocate for sexual education and well-being, highlighting her indelible impact on societal norms and personal lives.

In this episode, we also exchange some fantastic podcast recommendations that were initially shared on Facebook but mysteriously vanished due to a technical glitch. From the informative Power Broker series within 99% Invisible to the hilarious I've Had It podcast with Jennifer Welch and Angie "Pumps" Sullivan, we cover a diverse range of shows that promise to expand your listening rotation. Discover gems like Affirmation Nation with Bob Ducca, British Scandal, and Sam Pancake presents the Monday Afternoon Movie, each offering unique storytelling and entertainment. Plus: Julien visits!

Switching gears, we reflect on the recent Wimbledon tournament, discussing both the thrilling matches and the fashion statements. Alcaraz's victory over Djokovic and Naomi Osaka's unconventional Nike outfit are just a few highlights. We also delve into book recommendations from the New York Times' lists of the hundred best books of the 20th and 21st centuries, sharing our personal experiences with these captivating reads. Lastly, we celebrate a Dave Loggin's remarkable career, featuring his heartfelt performance of "Please Come to Boston," and explore his contributions to various music genres and artists.

Also: Richard Simmons, some other stuff, and some birthdays.

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Ever wondered why certain regional pronunciations can spark heated debates? This week on the Anne Levine Show, co-hosted by Michael Over There, we dive into the amusing quirks of Hassid fashion in Sullivan County, the linguistic peculiarities of Nevada or Novato, and our current obsessions with "The Bear" and the Handsome Podcast. From hot, humid evenings to the dry heat of the desert, our tangents are humorously unpredictable. We even throw in some film recommendations with "Daddy-O" and "Janet Planet," adding a dash of pop culture to your listening pleasure.

Next, we swap tennis shoes for the sleek styles of Wimbledon and the practicalities of Djokovic's knee brace. Ever curious about the behind-the-scenes life of ball boys and girls? We’ve got you covered with anecdotes about their discipline and the retro Ralph Lauren uniforms that bring a classic touch to the tournament. And for those with a penchant for nostalgia, we’ll compare these iconic looks to past tournament outfits. We also share a laugh over the exaggerated security measures and the curious case of Costco's toilet paper frenzy during the pandemic, leading to a charming Fourth of July spent at the Old Yarmouth Inn.

Our final stretch includes an eclectic mix of political chit-chat, eccentric museum finds like Arizona’s Poo-seum, and reflections on American peculiarity. We wrap up with tales of secret spy chickens, heartfelt tributes to family milestones, and the uplifting power of music from artists like Earth, Wind & Fire. Plus, we can't resist a humorous nod to the quirks of everyday habits. This episode is a rollercoaster of laughs, reflections, and unexpected twists, making it a must-listen for anyone in need of a good chuckle or haters worldwide. Either way, we're glad you're listening.

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What if receiving an unexpected gift could change your entire perspective on kindness and connection? Join us on the Anne Levine Show as we unwrap the joy and mystery of surprise deliveries, including a classic Sly and the Family Stone vinyl record and a curious neck cooler left on our porch. We share our heartfelt thanks for these apparently anonymous gestures and reflect on the warmth of family visits from New York. Plus, we prepare to welcome dear friends from Israel seeking refuge from ongoing conflict, offering them a slice of peace and comfort.

Have you ever mixed up your Chrises and Ryans in Hollywood? We sure have! This episode is packed with pop culture fun, starting with a mixed review of Tig Notaro's latest comedy special, "Hello Again," and a nostalgic look back at her legendary living room tours. We then celebrate Ariana Grande’s 31st birthday and her incredible vocal talents, while playfully lamenting the unavailability of her whimsical hair care line (The Serum is EXPENSIVE) on Cape Cod. Plus: Humorous discussion that touches on the quirks of celebrity culture and personal grooming.

Ever wondered what it's really like behind the scenes of a high-pressure kitchen? Step into the intense culinary drama of "The Bear," where we passionately dissect its star-studded cast and compelling storylines. From Joel McHale’s villainous charm to Olivia Colman’s refreshing presence, we cover it all, or at least what we know of it so far. Finally, we get around to mentioning America's Independence Day, exploring the joys of summer and connection that foster a sense of community and hope. This episode promises a rich tapestry of stories, reflections, and laughter that will leave you feeling inspired and connected. Or so the AI says.

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Can a simple lobster roll really cost $37? On this episode of The Anne Levine Show, we explore the surprising expenses of Cape Cod’s summer charm, from pricey seafood to those nostalgic and expensive New York City cocktails we all love to hate. Join us as we kick off our conversation with a deep dive into De La Soul's "Say No Go" and its fascinating samples, setting the tone for a lively discussion that meanders through Pernambuco Sours and the quirky Hello Kitty drink.

Despite our personal health battles, including a rough bout with pneumonia and Anne’s painful spinal issues, we found solace in the heartwarming film "Thelma," featuring the delightful June Squibb and Richard Roundtree. This feel-good flick is our must-watch recommendation, proving that great storytelling is ageless. We also discuss the modern filmmaking techniques that make new releases so captivating, all while lamenting the lack of comprehensive tennis coverage on TV and sharing Michael's journey of rediscovering guitar playing with a new Squire 60s Telecaster.

As the episode unfolds, Kevin Costner’s filmography takes center stage—both the hits and the misses—sparking a broader conversation on the power of long films like "Oppenheimer" and "Schindler's List." We wrap up by diving into literary gems, especially the enriching "People of the Book" by Geraldine Brooks, and reflecting on the emotional resonance of Sturgill Simpson’s music. This episode is a heartfelt mix of cultural reflections, personal anecdotes, and our collective search for comfort and joy in challenging times.

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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.