Explain Boston to Me

Time is a flat circle. In this episode, we're joined by Michael Ansara, author of the recently released memoir, The Hard Work of Hope , to talk about the 1960s and its mass protest movements in Boston. A community organizer and student leader at Harvard during this tumultuous era, Ansara has insight into how that historical moment roiled the region — and how its echoes reverberate today. This is a...

In this episode, we're talking about Ray Flynn, who served as mayor of Boston from 1984-1993. As described by guest Don Gillis, author of The Battle for Boston , that decade was transformative for the city. It was an era in which the city's progressive identity was solidified and the neighborhoods were brought back into the political process. Plus, did you know Flynn almost played for the Celtics?...

We're talking tripledeckers, that iconic piece of the local urban fabric with Matthew Dickey, aka Streetscape Curator . What are the origins of this vernacular architectural style? How has their identity — and their residents — changed over the years? And are we ready for a tripledecker renaissance? Pork Roll Egg & Cheese Vodka Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming topics? DM me...

In this episode, we're chatting about how the idea of Boston — its reputation, its brand, its character — has been shaped by popular media, from movies to journalism. Joining us is Stanley Corkin, author of Boston Mass-Mediated Urban Space and Culture in the Digital Age . Step right up: 10 best walkable cities for tourists in the US In Her Shoes  Have feedback on this episode or ideas for upcoming...

We're getting the inside scoop on the latest Market Basket drama from Grant Welker , a reporter for the Boston Business Journal . Why is Arthur T. Demoulas being pushed out again? Who will take over the company? How will this impact consumers and devotees of the beloved local grocery chain? Plus, more chatter on what makes Market Basket so special, and thoughts on Karen Read and Rafael Devers. Che...

Movie club is back! As a companion to last week's episode on Charlestown, we're chatting about the 2010 crime thriller "The Town," directed by and starring Ben Affleck. Dylan Gottlieb returns to the show to chat about the magic of shooting on location, Blake Lively slumming it, and our desire for a little levity. CLICK HERE to listen to EBtM: Charlestown. Have feedback on this episode or...

In this episode, we're joined by Lee Eiseman, who has lived in Charlestown for over 50 years. We cover a lot of ground, from the Battle of Bunker Hill (and its upcoming anniversary celebrations), to Irish immigration, to busing, to hot tips for contemporary visitors coming to the neighborhood. CLICK HERE for a list of upcoming events commemorating the Battle of Bunker Hill, including the reenactme...

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 Hydro...

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 u...

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 Ag...

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....

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 The...

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 . Bil...

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...

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 fri...

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...

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...

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 clo...

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....

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 W...

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 Ir...

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...

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 nex...

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 ge...

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 pr...