Explain Boston to Me

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.

In a recent Boston Magazine article, journalist Rachel Slade asked the question, "Does Boston still drink?" She's here to explain her findings and to talk about local drinking culture. We get into the rise of NA options, the death of the neighborhood drive bar, and Gen Z's changing tastes. Quinta Brunson talks MAC machines.  The Tush Push lives! RIP George Wendt Help Massachusetts come up with a new state seal Making It in America: The Almost Impossible Quest to Manufacture in the U.S.A. (And How It Got That Way) By Rachel Slade Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

We're joined by Harvard professor Lizabeth Cohen to talk about how the era of Urban Renewal — and the arrival of Ed Logue — impacted Boston. From bulldozed neighborhoods, to a new city hall, to housing in Roxbury and Charlestown, this particular moment left its mark on the city. Cohen's award-winning book, Saving America's Cities: Ed Logue and the Struggle to Renew Urban America in the Suburban Age, takes a more complex view of this oft-reviled movement. RIP the POOP scorebug. Philly taco. Loving the new Boston Red Sox Fenway-inspired City Connect jerseys. (The Phillies' City Connects are a crime against baseball.) Dog loses Dorchester mayoral election. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

In this week's episode, we're tackling one of the "Only in Boston" holidays. Marking a major moment in the Revolutionary War, this annual observance also happens to fall on St. Patrick's Day. Coincidence?!? Podcaster Brendan Hughes has the inside scoop on the history and politics of Evacuation Day. Check out his 10-episode series, Divine Intervention, where ever you listen to podcasts. Villanova Pope Michelin Guide comes to Philly AND Boston Real Housewives of Rhode Island Bill Burr roasts Philadelphia. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

This week we have a very special guest: Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand. She also happens to be a local — at least for a few more months. We're getting her hot takes on driving in Boston, New England weather, and how the city both met and defied her expectations. Arden's memoir, A Different Kind of Power, will be released on June 3, 2025. She is appearing at the Chevalier Theatre in Medford at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 1, 2025. CLICK HERE for tickets. Philly cheesesteaks in Tokyo. "More beauty in the back" on Brattle Street. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

What are the worst things about Boston's aging transit system? What are the best? And, most importantly, what does the future of the MBTA look like and how will it shape the city? This week, we're chatting with Seth Kaplan of TransitMatters, an organization that uses data to improve local transportation systems. Matt Stahm's new glove. Jalen Hurts skips the White House. Revere reenactment. Bill "Bae" Belichick and Jordan Hudson keep making news. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy was on Real World: Boston. Everybody Hits, Woohoo! Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

While I'm on vacation, please enjoy my most popular episode of all time! This conversation with writer Megan Johnson touches on the mustachioed man ("time to make the donuts"), the iconic color scheme, the kinds of people you find in a Dunkin', music festival brand activations, Coolattas, Ben Affleck, and so much more. Here's a link to Casey Affleck's SNL sketch.  And here's a pic of Ben buckling under the weight of the world while gathering his Dunkin' order in 2020. Check out Megan on Instagram. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

In this episode, we take a trip back to 2015, aka the snowiest winter in Boston history. Our guest was just a humble bartender when he was thrust into viral fame for an act of civic pride. Hint: It's no coincidence that we're releasing this installment during marathon week. Bringing a buzz to Citizen's Bank Park. Red Sox fan from Ipswich, Massachusetts, goes viral after catching foul ball with fried dough. A Body in the Snow: The Trial of Karen Read on MAX. Explain Boston to Me: Old North Church and Paul Revere with Nikki Stewart The Boston Shoveler Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

Did you grow up with scratch tickets? GBH's Ian Coss joins returns to the show to talk about the story behind his new podcast series, Scratch & Win. We bet (wink wink) that you'll love our conversation on the history of the state lottery, the evolution of gambling in America, and Massachusetts' love affair with scratch tickets. See the cherry blossoms in Philadelphia. Middle Child comes to PHL Airport. Soups on at Fenway.  The best Dim Sum in Boston, according to former EBtM guest Shirley Leung. Viva Karaoke. Ian's first appearance on the EBtM, talking about the Big Dig. Mistledough ad. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

This week, we're talking about the Boston Public Library, a beloved institution that started in two rooms and grew into a palace of learning. My guests Katherine Mitchell and Anna Fahey-Flynn tell me about BPL's history, how the library is changing with the times, and offer tips on making the most of your next visit. Plus, "Here Comes the Pizza!" Bok Bar reopens. Nick Castellanos has a favorite super hero. With origins at MIT, torpedo bats take MLB by storm. "Here comes the pizza!" plus a deep dive from ESPN. EBtM "Boston" versus Boston with Garrett Dash Nelson. New York Public Library on ice in Day After Tomorrow. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

In this episode, we're joined by local influencer JQ Louise to learn about how the sausage is made — how local restaurants go viral, the most photographed places to town, and the contrast between the Boston of the internet and Boston IRL. Follow JQ Louise at @TheJQList and @JQLouise on Instagram; and check out her website here. Rodney Peete catches a fly ball in Tokyo. The Wanamaker Building closes; the trailer for Mannequin, a camp classic. Nashville's wings, the ultimate influencer catnip. Explain Boston to Me: The curious case of the $600,000 liquor license with Shirley Leung. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

Thomas Menino was mayor of Boston for over 20 years. What made him such a successful politician? How did the city change under his watch? What were some of his signature achievements and nagging failures? We're joined by Wilbur C. Rich, professor emeritus at Wellesley College and author of Boston Mayor Thomas Menino: Lessons for Governing Post-Industrial Cities, to talk about this iconic figure. Hawk Krall  "We're talkin' about the Phightins..." "We was catching em, unlike Agholor..." Dropkick Murphys, American heroes BORG City  Belichick keeps his GF looped in on his work emails A scorpion loose at Logan Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

Did you know that Liberian dictator and international war criminal Charles Taylor broke out of prison in Massachusetts? He also earned an accounting degree, lived in Roxbury, and smuggled illegal goods from Southie's ports. Journalist Nate Horman has all the details about this wild corner of Boston history. Milt Williams to the Patriots. Celtics City on HBO.  "Diamonds and Guns: AN INFAMOUS WEST AFRICAN WARLORD'S BAY STATE JAILBREAK" by Nate Homan. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

In this episode, we riff on The Rat, Boston's answer to CBGB and an essential piece of the city's music history. We're looking back through the lens of "Making a Scene," an exhibit at Harvard's Loeb Music Library. This episode includes a visit to the gallery, which is open to the public through April 18, 2025. Plus, regional accent talk, Boston Monopoly (make your voices heard!), and Irish Potato szn. The Philly Tuxedo The Propeller Product Prop 4-1 reissue (highly recommend!) Boston Groupie News The Rathskeller Suite at Hotel Commonwealth :( Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

In this episode, we're talking about Kowloon, a North Shore staple that has hosted generations of prom afterparties, post-game hangs, and family gatherings. Filmmakers Mona Xia and Erin Ramirez made a short film that offers an intimate look at the family behind the enormous eatery. (You can watch the 15-minute film, Kowloon!, HERE.) Plus, a couple listeners share their own takes on the Mai Tai Mecca. The SS United States is headed for a new home under the sea. Nick Castellanos has impeccable/horrible timing. Plus, the Instagram reel that inspired me today. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

I need your help! I want to fill out my upcoming episode on Kowloon with your stories. What does this North Shore stalwart mean to you? What makes the Saugus restaurant so special? What is your favorite Kowloon memory? Your most beloved dish? Send a voice note (preferred) or a written ode to explainbostontome@gmail.com. You can also reach out via instagram: @explainbostontome. Then listen to next week's ep to hear the greatest hits.

In this episode, Steve Guerriero of the Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation tells us about how the Industrial Revolution transformed New England, creating mill towns and re-ordering local society for good. From boom times to going bust, these factories have a tremendous impact to this day — even if they're now loft apartments, craft breweries, or chic wedding venues. Howie Roseman gets hit with a can of beer during the Eagles' Super Bowl Parade. Seven Brides for Seven Brothers — bemoaning the neverending winter. Did you read Lyddie?? Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.  

This week, we're talking about the local war against rats with Dave Power from the City of Cambridge. Spoiler alert: It is ongoing! As you'll hear, this issue is a personal one. Plus, my reaction to the Eagles' Super Bowl win and a look into Jeremy Strong's psyche. Eagles win the Super Bowl. The Dunkin' ad featuring Bill Belichick and Jeremy Stong; Jeremy Strong talks to Vanity Fair about his process. Patriots fans rejoice at Patrick Mahomes' downfall. Jalen + trophy + cigar.  Do you have a rat problem? Get in touch with the City of Cambridge. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

This week, we're joined by Cam Hasbrouck and Drew Johnson from the Brews & Bruins podcast to chat about Boston's beloved professional ice hockey team and to dig deeper on the region's love for the sport, from the Bean Pot to Bobby Orr. Plus, some pre-Super Bowl chatter. Gritty's ever-changing belly button, an investigation.  Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker fumbles Eagles chant. A Tom Brady Look-Alike Contest at Time Out Boston. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

In this episode, Rachel Leah Blumenthal, food editor at Boston Magazine, takes us deep on this meaty regional specialty. We're grilling her to get all the answers, from the history of steak tips to the best spots to order them. Rachel's longform feature, "The Mysterious Origins of Steak Tips, a Uniquely New England Dish" The Northeast Philly Guy Monk portrait A good mechanic in South Philly. A great essay on the specific mental psychosis of a certain kind of doomer Philly fan (Defector). Sandwich, a Cape Cod novel by Catherine Newman; I preferred Paper Palace for family secrets and kettle pond swims. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

Sean Burns, film critic for WBUR, joins the podcast to talk about Boston crime movies — the good, the bad, and the Casey Affleck. We chat about why this genre looms so large in the city's imagination, trace the arc of Mark Walhberg's career, and consider the infamous rat shot. Plus, a sequel to our Boston versus Cambridge water taste test featuring the best the Big Apple's taps have to offer. Saquon in the snow Mitchell & Ness Seth Meyer's "Boston Accent" Trailer People Only Die of Love in the Movies (Jim Ridley)

We're talking with Jake Sconyers, host of the Hub History podcast, about the work it took take transform Boston from a 475 acre peninsula surrounded by sea and marshland to a booming city comprised of 15,000 acres. The Back Bay might be the most iconic infill neighborhood, but it's not the only one. The new Pennsylvania license plate. Kelly's Roast Beef is bought by a private equity firm. Spoon's "Rhthm & Soul" The Ted Williams tunnel floods (December 2024) Check out Camp Zero by local novelist Michelle Min Sterling, featuring a floating city in Boston Harbor. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

In this episode, we're chatting with Nikki Stewart of Old North Illuminated. She tells us about the history of this Freedom Trail icon, the legend of Paul Revere, and the evolution of Revolutionary-era storytelling in Boston. Plus, a Sheetz versus Wawa debate. Kylie Kelce, America's princess? Philly Pretzel Factory has a franchise in Revere. The story of Garlic Expressions. Explain Boston to Me on the African American Trail Project. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo. Especially if you have ideas for the Jordan's Furniture episode!

We're revisiting one of my favorite early episodes: Guest Pat Toomey's family has been in Southie for generations. He talks us through the contours of erstwhile working-class-Irish Southie as well as the new frat-bro-central Southie, and even gets in a few digs at The Departed. Speaking of The Departed, here is Pat on EBtM: Boston Movie Club talking about the crime thriller. See you in 2025! Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

In this Christmas Day drop, we're talking about Coolidge Corner, the neighborhood in Brookline with the most urban juice. Guest Rebeckah Orsatti talks me through Town Meeting, JFK, and the municipality's wild parking restrictions. A soft pretzel tray livens up any party. And turns out there is a Philly Pretzel Factory location in Revere! Brookline's turkey art. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

Why are there so many wild turkeys in this town? Mass Audubon's Tia Pinney has answers and tips for avoiding confrontation with our feathered friends, or should I say enemies...BE THE BIGGER TURKEY. Side note: At one point I might have referred to this episode as "the best one I have ever recorded." Show notes: A Man Full of Trouble, Colonial-era dive bar, reopens. The Sixers' cursed season. Plus, I love Jared McCain, but my cringe reaction to his TikToks makes me feel old. Du-Carcass. WBUR's Field Guide to Boston Monkey paw logic. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.

Just don't call him that! In this week's episode, 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.UConn And UMass Created And Abandoned College Football's Goofiest Rivalry TrophyTrading Places is a holiday movie and a Philadelphia movie. Red Sox Juan Soto cope. And Now We Call it Gravy...Greg's Restaurant slaps. 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.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

In this week's episode, we're talking about Boston's LGBTQ history and identity with Joan Ilacqua of The History Project, a community archive, repository, historical society, and museum for the local queer community. This is a complex story, and we get into everything from gay marriage legalization (it happened here first!), to "Boston marriages," to the city's first pride parade, to its current queer hot spots.Plus, my wild night at Kowloon.Marriages begin at Cambridge City Hall. Tastykake's Butterscotch Krimpets. Atlas Obscura on Boston Coolers.Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Boston Choral Ensemble presents "Northern Light" at 6 p.m. on December 7 at Old South Church (Copley Square, Boston). Advance tickets: $25 general admission; $15 students/seniors; $10 children; $0 EBT card holders. All additional tickets after the first two can be purchased for $10. For more information, visit bostonchoral.org.

What movie should we do next? And who should be the guest? Email meThis is a great weekend to get the family together for a viewing of the 1997 classic starring Matt and Ben. In this rerun of our inaugural Boston Movie Club, we're talking about Good Will Hunting.  To get into all the good stuff — Stellan Skarsgaard's scarf, whether or not a burger is ever called a "sandwich" interchangeably, and Robin Williams' recent role as a spiritual advisor to a cult leader — I'm joined by a very special guest.John Mara talks about Saquon Barkley. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Boston Choral Ensemble presents "Northern Light" at 6 p.m. on December 7 at Old South Church (Copley Square, Boston). Advance tickets: $25 general admission; $15 students/seniors; $10 children; $0 EBT card holders. All additional tickets after the first two can be purchased for $10. For more information, visit bostonchoral.org.

In this very special episode, we solve the Karen Read case! JK. We actually talk about what the obsession with this murder says about Boston, its suburban small towns, local media, law enforcement, and true crime. Offering her expertise is writer Susan Zalkind, author of The Waltham Murders: One Woman's Pursuit to Expose the Truth Behind a Murder and a National Tragedy and contributor to VICE, The Daily Beast, The Guardian U.S., The Irish Times, This American Life, and Boston Magazine.Have your own thoughts on Karen Read? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.Exciting Whites. Kim Costa and the Kelly's Roast Beef rap.The one New Yorker feature I read on Karen Read, written by the incredible Jessica Winter.  My favorite "true crime" writing: Strange Piece of Paradise: A Return to the American West To Investigate My Attempted Murder - and Solve the Riddle of Myself   Dave Cullen's Colombine will change the way you digest every public act of violence. Here is Susan on what Karen Read's case says about the state's homicide investigations And here she is on NBC News.Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Boston Choral Ensemble presents "Northern Light" at 6 p.m. on December 7 at Old South Church (Copley Square, Boston). Advance tickets: $25 general admission; $15 students/seniors; $10 children; $0 EBT card holders. All additional tickets after the first two can be purchased for $10. For more information, visit bostonchoral.org.

There's a reason they call it "Beantown." In this week's episode, Yankee Magazine food editor Amy Traverso takes us through the history of this iconic food — and explains why its place on the Mount Rushmore of local cuisine might be in jeopardy. Who's in for a Bean-off BBQ next summer? Chickie's and Pete's will take you to court over Crabfries. An Andy Reid lookalike. Yankee's Baked Beans Recipe. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Boston Choral Ensemble presents "Northern Light" at 6 p.m. on December 7 at Old South Church (Copley Square, Boston). Advance tickets: $25 general admission; $15 students/seniors; $10 children; $0 EBT card holders. All additional tickets after the first two can be purchased for $10. For more information, visit bostonchoral.org.

Is there anything we take for granted more than clean, safe water flowing out of our taps? In this episode, I'm learning all about Boston's municipal water supply and its source, the Quabbin Reservoir. My guest is writer and historian Elena Palladino, author of Lost Towns of the Swift River Valley. We ask the big questions: Does Boston's water have a reputation? What are the trade-offs of modernity? Is the region's water system well positioned to weather a changing climate? Are ghosts real? As a special bonus, I taste test two local tap waters, pitting Cambridge and Boston against each other. Saquon Barkley is not normal. Stormy Daniels visits Salem. Bill Belichick gets lured into a couples costume. Pun intended. Get a cake from Royal Pastry Shop. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Boston Choral Ensemble presents "Northern Light" at 6 p.m. on December 7 at Old South Church (Copley Square, Boston). Advance tickets: $25 general admission; $15 students/seniors; $10 children; $0 EBT card holders. All additional tickets after the first two can be purchased for $10. For more information, visit bostonchoral.org.

In this week's episode, we're learning all about Lexington, aka the "birthplace of American Liberty." Or so they say! Giving us the 411 on this iconic New England town is Trisha Pérez Kennealy, local and proprietor of the Inn at Hastings Park. We chat about the area's colonial history, the rivalry with Concord, NIMBYs and why her establishment is the perfect place for corporate espionage. Plus, lots of feedback on the Fenway episode!Brad Lidge, archeologistCambridge Day on G.W.A.C.C.A.The BOS Nation FC failed "balls" roll-out. Papi trolling A-Rod and Jeter. EBtM episodes on Route 128 and Boston's NIMBYs. Nick Sirianni listening to "Many Men (Wish Death Upon Me)" with his newly shaved head.Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

This week, we're talking Fenway — or "The Fenway" — which has everything from baseball (duh) to world-class art to gorgeous parks. The inside scoop comes courtesy of Michael Minichello, general manager at TimeOut Market Boston, which located in one of the neighborhood's most iconic buildings. Here is video from the scrapple-carving contest. Rocky runs through the Italian Market.Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

In this week's episode, we're chatting about the city's most famous rowing race: The Head of the Charles, happening October 19-20. Joining us is Brendan Mulvey, director of racing at the annual regatta. He tells us about the HOC's history, the best places to watch, and how the local rowing scene drew him to Boston.Here is a link to the Boston Globe column featuring the show: "No Stupid Questions."Here are pictures of Boathouse Row. Here is a trailer for The River Wild. And one for River Wild.  Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

In honor of October baseball, we're revisiting this magical tale of underdog grit, triumph over evil, and old men weeping in the streets. Lifelong Red Sox fan Tyler Rotman joins me to tell me the tale of how the curse was broken and the city liberated from its insidious vice — even if Pedro did throw that old man to the ground.We'll be back next week to talk about the Head of the Charles Regatta. If you'd like to buy a festive fir from Tyler in a few months, check out Boston Christmas Trees. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

In this episode, we're joined by Sebastian Belfanti of the West End Museum to talk about the history of the neighborhood — and its tragic fate at the hands of Urban Renewal. Turns out Boston looked at a dense, diverse downtown neighborhood and said, "Bring in the bulldozers."Click here for images of the destruction of the West End. And here are images of The Gothic before its demolition.  Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

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. We talk about the time Bewitched came to town, the title of "official witch," the Hocus Pocus of it all, and why they can't visit their mother in October. Plus, Gritty, Plymouth Rock, and somewhere called Misery Island. Here is a link to the scariest haunted house setting imaginable. Here is the 2024/25 Celtics City Jersey. "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.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

It's the dramatic conclusion of our discussion of the Boston Tea Party! Living history interpreter Audrey Stuck-Girard walks us through the aftermath and the legacy of this iconic incident.Check out Audrey's custom historical wig business, Cuffed & Coiffed (here's the Instagram page). The Wet Guy. A clip from The Comeback, which is actually a three-part series on Netflix. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

In part one of our inaugural two-parter, we're talking with living history interpreter Audrey Stuck-Girard about one of Boston's most iconic incidents, The Boston Tea Party. This episode has everything: Colonial tax policy, tea talk, a creepy portrait of Paul Revere, an alibi for Sam Adams, a testy town meeting, smuggling, Connecticut slander, and more!Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

Not even COVID could keep me away from you! I'm back from vacation with an 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. Please blame any and all bad puns on my sick, addled brain. 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.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a textPremium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

Oh how far we've come! I'm on vacation, so here's an oldie but a goodie — with a new intro! On the first ever episode of "Explain Boston to Me,"  l learned about Allston Christmas, the smorgasbord of free curbside stuff that happens every September 1. Explaining this phenomenon — and giving the overall scoop on Allston — is Matt Shearer, a reporter for WBZ News Radio. You might have heard him over the airwaves, but if you're under 40 you're probably more likely to have seen one of his viral “man on the street” segments pinging around the internet. Check him out @reportermatt on Instagram or @WBZnewsradio on TikTok.Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

In this week's episode, we're joined by Dart Adams, author, journalist, historian, and Black Bostonian. He talks about how the culture being exported by the city — the movies, TV shows, media, and memes — doesn't reflect the actual diversity of the community. Here is Randolph and Mortimer Duke: "Turn those machines back on!" And here is a video of Joel Embiid trolling the French fans. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

This week, we're talking about one of Boston's most iconic neighborhoods, the North End. James Pasto grew up in this Italian enclave and now teaches a class on its history at Boston University. It's currently Feast Season — check out this calendar to plan your outing. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

This week, we're grabbing a drink where everyone knows your name. Oops. Not that place — we'll save that for another day. Zach Servideo of Value Creation Labs is an entrepreneur and dude in the tech/innovation space, but he is also a former doorman at The Pour House (RIP).  We talk about dive bar culture in Boston, how it's changing in this newly moneyed era, and why we still need these sacred spaces. Here is Ben Affleck's new look.Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.

Let's hit the sand! We're talking about Revere Beach with Jan Dumas, a proud resident and city booster. We get into the area's history, its rough reputation and weigh in on the original Kelly's Roast Beef. If you'd like to know more about what's going on at Revere Beach and its past, head to reverebeach.com. Here is the heat map of Twisted Tea consumption and here is the Philadelphia Magazine feature on Twisted Tea. Here is video of David from the Real World: Seattle having a meltdown in a car (skip ahead to the last minute).And here is a bit more about the trials and travails of the Massachusetts Mad Dogs from funwhileitlasted.net. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Calling all high school students! Win a piece of $5,000 in total prizes. The deadline for Science Story Slam is Aug. 7; the event takes place on Sept. 25. For more information or to submit your story, visit EDIFII.ME and click the Science Story Slam link. Any questions? Email edifii@edifii.me.

This week, we're talking about the housing crisis. And affordability. And development. And density. What could go wrong? Historian Jacob Anbinder is an expert on how cities grow and evolve, and the forces aligned against those changes. We discuss Boston's NIMBY-est towns, the recent drama in Milton over the MBTA Communities Act, and why we should take people at their word when it comes to why they fight development. To read more from Anbinder, check out these two features from The Atlantic: - "What Historic Preservation Is Doing to American Cities"- "The Pandemic Disproved Urban Progressives' Theory About Gentrification"Here is Jalen Hurts smiling. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Calling all high school students! Win a piece of $5,000 in total prizes. The deadline for Science Story Slam is Aug. 7; the event takes place on Sept. 25. For more information or to submit your story, visit EDIFII.ME and click the Science Story Slam link. Any questions? Email edifii@edifii.me.

Happy first birthday to Explain Boston to Me! In this episode, I'm joined by Marian Esanu and Victor Chaves of Premium Q Moving & Storage to talk about the wild world of moving in Boston. From Storrow-ed vehicles to helicopter parents to the September 1 move-mageddon, the industry here has its own particular challenges. As I explain in the show, this is not sponsored content. Here's my appearance on their podcast, Life Beyond Boxes. Here is Kylie Kelce yelling at a woman in Margate. Read The Paper Palace. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Calling all high school students! Win a piece of $5,000 in total prizes. The deadline for Science Story Slam is Aug. 7; the event takes place on Sept. 25. For more information or to submit your story, visit EDIFII.ME and click the Science Story Slam link. Any questions? Email edifii@edifii.me.What It's Like To Be...What's it like to be a Cattle Rancher? FBI Special Agent? Professional Santa? Find out!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

In the second 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.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Calling all high school students! Win a piece of $5,000 in total prizes. The deadline for Science Story Slam is Aug. 7; the event takes place on Sept. 25. For more information or to submit your story, visit EDIFII.ME and click the Science Story Slam link. Any questions? Email edifii@edifii.me.What It's Like To Be...What's it like to be a Cattle Rancher? FBI Special Agent? Professional Santa? Find out!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

How did Boston's Catholics go from a scorned minority to the dominant force in local politics and culture? Lots of reasons! Here to walk us through it is Craig Tichelkamp, a Harvard Divinity School-educated scholar who teaches at Stonehill College. Also, Dunkin' feedback! And an update on the next Movie Club installment. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote. Calling all high school students! Win a piece of $5,000 in total prizes. The deadline for Science Story Slam is Aug. 7; the event takes place on Sept. 25. For more information or to submit your story, visit EDIFII.ME and click the Science Story Slam link. Any questions? Email edifii@edifii.me.La Fayette, We Are Here!French history podcast for Americans, by a Frenchman. Learn all about France's history.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

It's finally time. We're chatting about the brand that is perhaps most closely associated with the Boston region. The conversation touches on the mustachioed man ("time to make the donuts"), the iconic color scheme, the kinds of people you find in a Dunkin', music festival brand activations, Coolattas,  Ben Affleck, and so much more. Here's a link to Casey Affleck's SNL sketch.  And here's a pic of Ben buckling under the weight of the world while gathering his Dunkin' order in 2020. Check out Megan on Instagram. Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me on Instagram, email me, or send a voice memo.If you're a local business who'd like to advertise on the podcast, please drop me a line.Send us a Text Message.Premium Q Moving & Storage: Get free boxes and 10% off your move by clicking HERE or call 781-730-6180 for a quote.