Are We Witnessing Podcaster Chris Ryan’s Apex Mountain?

Are We Witnessing Podcaster Chris Ryan’s Apex Mountain?

April 12, 2026 · 1h 27m

About this episode

Sam Fragoso interviews Chris Ryan about his career in podcasting and writing, reflecting on his influences and experiences.

Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened. On the heels of CR month coming to a close on The Rewatchables , we’re joined this week by The Ringer’s beloved editorial director, Chris Ryan. He’s been hailed as the Shohei Ohtani of podcasting, the basketball bard of Bob & Barbara's bar, the face of The Ringer, the Joe Rogan of the left, and perhaps most aptly, by Bill Simmons himself, “the Prince of Philadelphia.” We begin with a roundup of today’s television, featuring The Pitt (6:38), DTF St. Louis (9:45), The Madison (11:25), and more (12:30). Then, we get into Chris’ Philly upbringing (14:22), the influence of his film critic father, the late Desmond Ryan (22:50), and what first inspired him to become a writer (34:53). On the back-half, Ryan reflects on the “Meet Me in the Bathroom” era of New York City (41:45), finding his voice through his blog Gabe Said “We’re Into Movements” (44:40), the halcyon days of Grantland (55:30), his legendary impressions (58:50), and what he wants for the next chapter, on and off the mic (1:21:20). As always, our email: talkeasypod@gmail.com. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…

People in this episode

Host: Sam Fragoso

Guest: Chris Ryan

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Ringer, Grantland

Products: DTF

Books & works: Meet Me in the Bathroom

Places: Philadelphia, New York City, St. Louis, The Pitt, The Madison

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