The Recappables

Before getting into "The Limitless Sh*t," Episode 7 of 'Billions' Season 5, cocreators Brian Koppelman and David Levien discuss the concept of high-end mental-performance-enhancing drugs; the difficult editing required to pivot into a midseason finale; crew superstars, including the line producer, key grip, and gaffer; obscure references; guest cast; and more (0:05). They next speak with actor-director David Costabile, who plays Mike Wagner, about directing as well as acting in Episode 7, figuring out who Wagner is as a character, old-school NYSE traders, and more (31:05)

Before getting into "The Nordic Model," S5E6 of 'Billions,' cocreators Brian Koppelman and David Levien discuss the real billionaire art community, this episode's director Shaz Bennett, script-to-screen changes in location, the show's stellar sound department, revealing the layers of Chuck Rhodes Sr., a laundry list of obscure references, guest cast performances and more (0:50). They next speak with actor Stephen Kunken, who plays Ari Spyros, about joining the show as a guest star in the pilot episode, the change in his character's demeanor as the show progresses, "defending" Spyros to fans of the show online, and more (32:30).

Before getting into "Contract," S5E5 of 'Billions,' cocreators Brian Koppelman and David Levien discuss diving into Bobby Axelrod's childhood; the greatness of the episode's director, Adam Bernstein; and the costume and wardrobe department's effect on the show; they also explain some obscure references and shout-out some guest-cast performances (0:30). They next speak with actress, writer, and comedian Eva Victor about her signature style-satire videos; the dynamic relationship between her character, Rian, and Winston; how Eva's part came about; set stories; and more (36:06).

Before diving into S5E4, "Opportunity Zone," 'Billions' cocreators Brian Koppelman and David Levien discuss the challenges of filming the opening scene of Episode 4, having Daymond John of "Shark Tank" on the show and the insight he provided, Dominique Wilkins set stories, listener questions, obscure references, and more (0:45). Then they talk with actress Maggie Siff about her coaching scene with Frank Grillo's character, Nico Tanner, auditioning for the part of Wendy Rhodes, the toughest scenes to play as Wendy, and more (35:23).

Before diving into S5E3, "Beg, Bribe, Bully," 'Billions' cocreators Brian Koppelman and David Levien discuss real-life examples of billionaire feuds, script-to-screen changes, a stellar performance from the assistant director, guest cast members, obscure references, and more (0:40). Then they talk with author Ben Mezrich about his time in the writers' room as consulting producer for Season 5 of 'Billions' (32:44). 

Before diving into S5E2, “The Chris Rock Test,” 'Billions' cocreators Brian Koppelman and David Levien discuss some parallels between ‘Billions’ and real-life billionaire behavior as well as how the location manager and prop master truly shined in Season 5's second episode (0:30). Then they talk to Corey Stoll, who plays Michael Prince, about his character, joining an already established show, learning from his castmates, filming at Mohonk Mountain House, and more (36:40).

'Billions' cocreators Brian Koppelman and David Levien discuss the show returning for its fifth season, what a showrunner really does, the importance of season openers, and Episode 1 of Season 5 of 'Billions,' "The New Decas" (0:20), before talking to "The Man" Becky Lynch about her cameo in Episode 1 (32:20).

Brian Koppelman and David Levien give a behind-the-scenes look into 'Billions,' Season 5. After each episode's airing on Showtime, the podcast will unpack the writing of the script, exclusive stories from production, the ideas behind the music cues, and much more. The 12-episode podcast season will also include interviews with cast and crew members as well as bonus podcast episodes devoted to inside stories from 'Billions.' Hosts: Brian Koppelman and David Levien

We break down ‘GLOW’ Season 3 by diving deep on Episode 6, “Outward Bound.” We talk about why we love the show, the ongoing conflict between Ruth and Debbie, and how ‘GLOW’ handles wrestling stereotypes. Hosts: Alison Herman and Michael Baumann

Finally, we discuss 'The End of Evangelion' in comparison with the TV series finale and the modern temptation to discount the show’s characters and sexuality as “problematic.” Episodes discussed: 27 - 28 Hosts: Justin Charity, Micah Peters

We break down the final episodes of ‘Stranger Things’ Season 3. We discuss the emotional ending and look ahead to Season 4. Hosts: Alison Herman, Miles Surrey

We break down episodes 4 through 6 of ‘Stranger Things’ Season 3, breaking down Hopper's dad-bod corner, the best music cues, and much more. Hosts: Alison Herman, Miles Surrey

We break down episodes 1 through 3 of ‘Stranger Things’ Season 3, offering our thoughts on the Russians, the Mind Flayer, Hopper’s dad-bod, characters we ship, our favorite musical cues, and, of course, ’80s nostalgia. Hosts: Alison Herman, Miles Surrey

We discuss the final episodes of ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion,’ which introduce the final pilot as well as the final Angel before ending the series on a cathartic if bewildering final note. (Don’t worry, we’ll cover ‘The End of Evangelion’ in the sixth and final episode of 'Sound Only.') Episodes discussed: 22-26 Hosts: Justin Charity, Micah Peters

We discuss episodes 15 through 21 of ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion,’ which puts Toji in the cockpit of the brand-new Unit-03. Meanwhile, Kaji leads a dangerous investigation of NERV, the Angel in Terminal Dogma, and the real cause of Second Impact. Episodes discussed: 15 - 21 Hosts: Justin Charity, Micah Peters

We discuss episodes 8 through 14 of ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion,’ which introduce us to Asuka Langley Soryu, the hot-headed pilot of Unit-02, and which also begin to grapple with the intriguing backstories for Misato, Ritsuko, and Kaji. Episodes covered: 8 - 14 Hosts: Justin Charity, Micah Peters

We talk about the arrival of ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ on Netflix and the changes that accompanied the new release (00:00) before breaking down episodes three through seven, which introduce us to Rei Ayanami, the pilot of Evangelion Unit-00 (08:42). Episodes covered: 3 - 7 Hosts: Justin Charity, Micah Peters

In the first episode of our six-part miniseries on the 1995 classic ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion,’ we break down the context of the show, explain its importance and impact in both anime and the TV canon, and discuss the show's main character, Shinji Ikari (00:00). Then we analyze the first two episodes, “Angel Attack” and “The Beast” (32:43). Episodes covered: 1 - 2 Hosts: Justin Charity, Micah Peters

We discuss the 12th and final episode of ‘Billions’ Season 4: “Extreme Sandbox.” We break down Axe’s acquisition of Taylor back under Axe Cap, Connerty’s fall from grace, and make predictions for what's in store next season. Hosts: Alison Herman, Kate Knibbs Unbury the Hatchet: How Competitive Ax-Throwing Went From a Canadian Fad to a Global Pastime

We discuss the 11th episode of ‘Billions’ Season 4: “Lamster.” We break down Wendy’s change of heart during her medical license hearing, Axe’s intervention by the hands of his own staff, Rebecca’s deal with Taylor, and Connerty’s breaking of the law in order to close in on Chuck. Hosts: Alison Herman, Miles Surrey

The final episode of Season 2 is basically an hour of Eve having a panic attack (3:27). Carolyn reveals that she was manipulating Eve in typical Carolyn fashion (5:37), and there are some amazing Rome location shots (25:41). Plus, a final edition of “Jodie Comer Can” (29:41) and our favorite outfits from the season (32:04). Hosts: Alison Herman and Kate Halliwell

We discuss the tenth episode of ‘Billions’ Season 4: “New Year’s Day.” We break down Wendy’s fight to keep her medical license, Axe’s painting problem, Taylor’s new romance, and Wags’s cuddling session. Hosts: Alison Herman, Kate Knibbs Wendy Rhoades Is the Most Villainous Villain on ‘Billions’ Billions Star David Costabile Isn’t "That Guy" Anymore

The Ringer’s Zach Kram and Riley McAtee break down everything from the finale of the biggest show on television, discussing winners and losers, picking nits, and reminiscing on what made ‘Game of Thrones’ so great in the first place. Hosts: Zach Kram, Riley McAtee

In the penultimate episode of Season 2, we see Villanelle crush two pasta dishes in a row to get an invite to Rome (1:53), Eve have a conference call threesome with her coworker (16:52), and some European decor inspiration (19:07). Plus, predictions for the season finale (38:57). Hosts: Alison Herman and Kate Halliwell

The Ringer’s Zach Kram and Riley McAtee prognosticate on what could happen in Season 8, Episode 6 of ‘Game of Thrones.’ They break down the teaser for the final episode (01:40), theorize who will sit on the Iron Throne (19:00), and offer their key players in the episode (36:53) before predicting what will happen next (40:41).

We break down everything from Season 2 of ‘Barry’ and discuss our favorite episodes, moments, and quotes from the season before offering predictions and insights into the Season 2 finale and Season 3 (slight spoiler warning!). Hosts: Donnie Kwak, Chris Almeida, Miles Surrey, Kate Knibbs

Eve and Niko's relationship has finally reached its breaking point and apparently Eve has never heard of breakup sex (2:36). MI-6 enlists Villanelle to get closer to Aaron Peele's sister and she dons an American persona to do so (18:25). And why do Carolyn's best lines always revolve around rodents (31:46)? Hosts: Alison Herman and Kate Halliwell

The Ringer’s Zach Kram and Riley McAtee theorize and prognosticate on what could happen in Season 8, Episode 5 of ‘Game of Thrones.’ They break down the teaser for the upcoming episode (01:22) and make predictions for what they think will happen (12:30) before discussing theories and answering questions from listeners (20:28). Host: Zach Kram, Riley McAtee

Villanelle and Eve come to face to face for the first time this season after Eve orders a hit on herself (2:16). In a parallel to the first season, they have another sexually charged meeting in Eve's kitchen (20:34). Villanelle dresses like only Villanelle can for the occasion (26:47). Plus, our favorite quotes of the episode (32:22). Hosts: Alison Herman and Kate Halliwell

The Ringer’s Zach Kram and Riley McAtee theorize and prognosticate on what could happen in Season 8, Episode 4 of ‘Game of Thrones.’ They break down the teaser for the upcoming episode (01:24), discuss what fate lies ahead for Cersei based on The Valonqar prophecy (21:57), and talk about the key players (34:34). Finally, they each give their predictions for what’s to come (40:49). Host: Zach Kram, Riley McAtee

We break down everything from Season 2 of ‘Cobra Kai,’ handing out awards for MVP, LVP, Most 2019 Moment, and much more. Hosts: Donnie Kwak, Miles Surrey, Chris Almeida

The Ringer’s Alison Herman and Paolo Uggetti discuss the seventh episode of ‘Billions’ Season 4: “Infinite Game.” They break down Chuck’s pet problem and Wendy and Axe’s attack on Taylor and the difficult decision they have to make because of it. Host: Alison Herman, Paolo Uggetti

Eve's work-life balance continues to deteriorate, but she does manage to find "The Ghost" (7:41). Villanelle tries to get over Eve by going on a drug-fueled bender (19:21) and looks fabulous while doing so (24:08). Plus, awards for quote of the week (28:07). Hosts: Kate Halliwell and Alison Herman

The Ringer’s Zach Kram and Riley McAtee theorize and prognosticate on what could happen in Season 8, Episode 3 of ‘Game of Thrones.’ They break down the teaser for the upcoming episode (01:27), discuss whether Bran knows more about the Night King than he’s letting on (19:23), and talk about the key players (28:30). Finally, they break down the remaining characters' chances of survival (32:41).

Eve and Villanelle continue to circle each other as Villanelle works on getting her mojo back (2:56). It's probably telling that we're just now learning what Eve's husband Niko does (5:20). If you're wearing counterfeit fashion, Villanelle will come for you (15:09), and 'Fit of the Week' makes a triumphant return (24:00). Hosts: Kate Halliwell and Alison Herman

The Ringer’s Zach Kram and Riley McAtee theorize and prognosticate on what could happen in Season 8, Episode 2 of ‘Game of Thrones’. They break down the teaser for the upcoming episode (01:22), discuss Daenerys’s dragons in the North (20:49), and talk about the key players ahead of the Battle of Winterfell (33:40). Finally, they give their predictions for what they expect to happen in the upcoming episode (41:39).

Eve has some new coworkers and there could be a new female assassin (2:07). Villanelle is still healing from her stab wound and doesn't pick the best place to take refuge (17:15). Plus: our favorite outfits (23:56) and quotes of the week (25:27). Hosts: Alison Herman and Kate Halliwell

With the Season 8 premiere of ‘Game of Thrones’ fast approaching, The Ringer’s Zach Kram and Riley McAtee theorize and prognosticate on what could happen next. They discuss past season premieres (1:32), their theory of the week (18:35), and who the key to the first episode is (30:57). They wrap up with some predictions (38:12). Hosts: Zach Kram, Riley McAtee

The Ringer's Amanda Dobbins and Juliet Litman explain their love for Freeform's 'The Bold Type' (1:03). Season 3 kicks off with Jane battling the new head of "the dot com" (16:53), Kat dealing with the fall out from her breakup with Adena (31:48), and Sutton trying to decide whether she should move in with her boyfriend Richard. We also award MVP of the episode (33:51) and pick some nits with how the show portrays the media industry (37:00). Hosts: Juliet Litman and Amanda Dobbins

The Ringer’s Alison Herman and Miles Surrey discuss the fourth episode of ‘Billions’ Season 4: “Overton Window”. They breakdown Chuck’s big speech, the implications it has on his and Wendy’s relationship going forward, and Chuck and Axe’s relatively peaceful alliance (so far). Hosts: Alison Herman, Miles Surrey

The Season 2 premiere of 'Killing Eve' kicks off just 30 seconds after the finale. Eve is in the middle of a mental breakdown and working on her work-life balance (3:44), Jodie Comer is in the hospital with a stab wound (10:17), and Carolyn is still being Carolyn (21:22). Hosts: Kate Halliwell and Alison Herman

Ahead of the Season 2 premiere of 'Killing Eve,' we explain why the show is so important to us (4:11), talk about our favorite looks (11:10) and one-liners from the season (18:03), and name some characters to watch in Season 2 (27:36). Hosts: Alison Herman and Kate Halliwell Read Kate's interview with Phoebe De Gaye here.

The Ringer’s Alison Herman and Miles Surrey break down the first episode of ‘Billions’ Season 4: “Chucky Rhoades’s Greatest Game.” They discuss Chuck attempting to drum up good will after being ousted as attorney general and the ongoing battle between Axe Capital and Taylor Mason Capital. Hosts: Alison Herman, Miles Surrey

The Ringer’s Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion break down the finale of ‘True Detective’ Season 3: “Now Am Found”.

The Ringer’s Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion investigate the seventh episode of ‘True Detective’ Season 3: “The Final Country.” Our detectives break down the plot, examine the characters, and analyze real-life crimes that resemble the one on the show. With one episode remaining, Chris and Jason detail the questions that are still unanswered and give their theories on what we can expect for the season finale. Hosts: Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion

The Ringer’s Alison Herman and Claire McNear analyze the kidnappings, interviews, and most unbelievable moments of ‘Abducted in Plain Sight,’ the latest true-crime documentary from Netflix.   Hosts: Alison Herman and Claire McNear

The Ringer’s Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion investigate the sixth episode of ‘True Detective’ Season 3: “Hunters in the Dark.” Our detectives break down the plot, examine the characters, and analyze the context around the show’s time period. With only two episodes remaining, Chris and Jason detail the questions that are still unanswered and give their theories on what we can expect for the final two episodes. Hosts: Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion

The Ringer’s Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion investigate the fifth episode of ‘True Detective’ Season 3: “If You Have Ghosts.” Our detectives break down the plot, examine the characters, and analyze the context around the show’s time period. Chris and Jason further explore the real-life crimes that resemble the crime happening on the show. Finally, with the release of the teaser trailer for the upcoming episodes of the season, our detectives fully dive into conspiracy corner to figure out how the rest of the show might play out. Hosts: Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion

The Ringer’s Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion investigate the fourth episode of ‘True Detective’ Season 3: “The Hour and the Day.” Our detectives break down the plot, examine the characters, and analyze the context around the show’s time period. Chris and Jason further explore the real-life crimes that resemble the crime happening on the show. Finally, our detectives head to the conspiracy corner where they break down the theories surrounding the show. Hosts: Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion

The Ringer’s Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion investigate the third episode of ‘True Detective’ Season 3: “The Big Never.” Our detectives break down the plot, examine the characters, and analyze the context around the show’s time period. Chris and Jason further explore the real-life crimes that resemble the crime happening on the show. At the end, they dive into some theories surrounding the case. Hosts: Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion

In the debut of our ‘True Detective’ aftershow, our detectives break down the plot, examine the characters, and analyze the context. Is Season 3 somehow connected to Season 1? Hosts: Chris Ryan and Jason Concepcion