Explain Boston to Me

We're going behind the doors of Boston's private clubs, a key part of the city's social life since the 19th century. Serving as our tour guide is Ken Turino, a member of the St. Botolph Club and The 'Quin House. What is the enduring appeal of these institutions? How are they modernizing? And what does their resurgence say about contemporary life?

V.J. Edgecombe goes into the seats.

The President's House gets its signs back. 

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In this episode, we're reconsidering the Puritans with historian Lori Rogers-Stokes, author of Gathered Into a Church: Indigenous-English Congregationalism in Woodland New England. So much to learn! And so much to unlearn! This devout group of colonists had a tremendous influence on the culture and governance of New England, and the stereotypes don't do them justice. This one is a banger!

Self-unite in Pennsylvania! Thanks, Quakers.

The Simpsons go to Philadelphia.  

The Gold Medal-winning U.S. women's hockey team has a Boston flavor.

Go to Comfort Kitchen!

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In this episode, we're chatting about a Jamaica Plain, a beloved and eclectic Boston neighborhood. Longtime resident and amateur historian Gretchen Grozier talks about the area's long history, its major landmarks, and its particular charms.

Zach Wheeler has rib in closet. (Bryce Harper removes blood.)

Reading "Iced Coffees"

Jordan's Furniture loves making sports bets.

Norwegian skier crashes out. 

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In this episode, guest Josh Davis is helping us go deep on a regional specialty: South Shore Bar Pizza. What makes a good one? What are some of the top spots? Where does this particular style fit in the pizza pantheon?

Mexican pizza in Philly.

30 for 30: Philly Special trailer.

Jordon Hudson! The shade!!!!

Latest Ben Affleck Dunkin Super Bowl ad. Blech. 

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Let's call this the "time is a flat circle" episode. Daniel Berger-Jones and John J King from the Get Shocked podcast and Boston History Company are here to talk about the Boston Massacre. We discuss the myths behind this seminal Revolutionary era event, clashes between occupiers and the occupied, local proclivities towards self-government, and the moments throughout history when theoretical violence becomes real violence. Yup.

RIP Dan McQuade. (The beloved compilation he created.)

WBUR on local animal weather forecasters.

Cape Cod potato chips factory closes.

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In this episode, we're joined by James O'Connell, a professor at BU and author of the book, Boston and the Making of a Global City. He explains how the city's port opened it up to the world, transformed its economy, and shaped its culture. In short, Boston would not be the city it is without this vital connection.

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We're doing something a little different this week, heading down to record on location at Wulf's Fish in the Seaport. Richard Taylor and Desiree Antczak (Wulf's) and Bill Mantia (John Mantia & Sons) share their insights on Boston's seafood industry — how it has evolved, what it means to the city, and how it endures next to some of the priciest real estate in the country. With special guest Dylan Gottlieb!

Snapper Soup is a Philly tradition.

Sad baseball corner. 

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In this episode, we're exploring one of Boston's most storied and beloved traditions: The Beanpot. This annual tournament brings the college hockey programs from Boston University, Boston College, Harvard and Northeastern together for an epic clash. I'm joined by local sports maven Tom Burke — his family owned the Celtics and Boston Garden, and plays a role in the Boston Marathon to this day — to tell me all about its origins and its evolution. He is also co-author of Tales from the Boston College Hockey Locker Room: A Collection of the Greatest Eagles Hockey Stories Ever Told.

Attend the Beanpot. 

OMG there is a Wing Bowl doc!!! It is called "No One Died." And here is an insane Buzzfeed feature.

Big Papi singing his heart out.

Send me New Bedford recs. DM me on Instagram or email me.

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As 2026 begins, it's a great moment to check in on the state of Explain Boston to Me. In addition, we're asking for help — what else is new?? — finding guests for a slate of exciting topics. Plus, what Lee did on her winter vacation.

Are you or someone you know of a good fit for these topics? DM me on Instagram or email me.

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In this 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.

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