Anne Levine Show Anne Levine and Michael Hill-Levine

As we crank up the volume with a throwback to Big Pig's iconic track, Breakaway,  it's remarkable how a single song can transport us through time—this episode is an audio time capsule just waiting to be unwrapped for probably one person alone. Music isn't just background noise; it's the soundtrack to our lives, a thread connecting us to the moments that define us. Come along for the ride as we share stories of cross-country journeys, a nod to the adventurous spirit we all harbor, and the undeniable mix of excitement and challenge that tagging along can bring.

It's not every day that a Jerry Seinfeld routine gets overshadowed, but when protests erupt at a Duke University commencement, it deserves a closer look. We wade into the tangled web of political expression and the delicate lines that, when crossed, kick up dust around anti-Semitism and free speech. Anne displays her animosity toward pickleball just on general principles, Later, we find solace and celebration at a memorial service for my beloved friend David Wallace, where emotions run deep, and the passage of time is palpable through the ever-evolving art of parenting, the eternal nature of friendships, and the way music brings us all together.

Down in New Orleans, before Katrina left her mark, I discovered the true meaning of 'joie de vivre'—a blend of family ties, local flavor, and the kind of mix-ups that turn into treasured anecdotes. In homage to my six-decade-long friendship with David, we let the soulful groove of Earth, Wind & Fire carry us through a city that, much like the beauty of enduring relationships, stands resilient against the tests of time. Finally, a reminder of the small victories in life—like the perfect fit of Spanx trousers Artemis—and the immeasurable worth of reconnecting with old pals. Wherever your journey takes you, the stories shared here are sure to strike a something.

Also, most of this description was written by AI, taking my job.

Have you ever stumbled upon a word that delightfully encapsulates those all-too-human moments? The German language is rich with such terms, and on our latest episode, we journey through the intricate dance of linguistics to uncover the charm behind words like "Treppenwitz" and "Kummerspeck". Our conversation takes an amusing turn as we share anecdotes of personal encounters with these linguistic gems, and we invite you to laugh along at the precision with which they narrate life's peculiar experiences.

The buzz around a new TV show or film can fade faster than a shooting star, and we've all felt that waning interest after an initial infatuation. I engage in a heart-to-heart about the shows and movies that captured our hearts only to release them just as quickly, from classics like "Petticoat Junction" to modern hits like "Ted Lasso". Heidi Gardner who KILLED on the "Beavis & Butthead" sketch on SNL, is applauded for bringing her comedic genius to the Cape Cod production of "Noises Off." 

We then pivot to more serious terrain as we discuss the powerful interview with Brittany Griner by Robin Roberts, diving into the challenges and triumphs of Griner's journey. Moreover, we unpack the complexities of global events, such as the Eurovision Song Contest's decision regarding Israel, and reflect on the deeper implications of such actions. Whether it's through laughter or solemn discussion, our episode aims to connect, enlighten, and leave you with a sense of hope in the nuanced tapestry of the human narrative.

We're shaking off the cobwebs of yesteryear and embracing the dawn of a new day with a touch of mischief and a whole lot of heart. This episode is a ramble through the quaint traditions of May Day, where we muse about the charm of leaving flowers on doorsteps and dodging the ever-watchful eye of modern doorbell cameras. Amidst the chuckles, we share a curious tale about Jonathan Howard Greenwood, a dweebish character from my past whose mysterious occupation had us all scratching our heads. And as we plot to get the local kids roped into our floral caper, we explore the threads of community that bind us in unexpected ways.

Turning the page to a more sobering chapter, things take a dramatic twist with the revelation of a less-than-welcome houseguest. Strap in as I recount the tense moments of confronting Jonathan Howard Greenwood's deceit, from his unauthorized financial antics to the disturbing discovery of multiple passports that hinted at a darker narrative. This gripping story serves as a stark reminder about the importance of trust, the necessity of involving authorities when things go sour, and the protective steps one must sometimes take to safeguard their peace.

As we round off the conversation, we pivot to the lighter topic of the Coen Brothers' eclectic filmography, dissecting their unique storytelling from the apocalyptic comedy of "This Is the End" to the existential quandaries of "A Serious Man." We'll debate the merits of "Raising Arizona" and express our unabashed enthusiasm for Nicolas Cage's idiosyncratic roles—even if the titles of his latest endeavors momentarily escape us. And as we bid you adieu with a playful hum of "So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish," this episode promises to be a blend of hilarity, reflection, and the unshakable spirit of community that defines us.

Your guide, Anne Levine, Happy to be here, Beef with Artemis (Factual), Apologizing for the Peanuts, Weight loss, Women's Clothing Sizes (Wtf), How to find both your size and the best deal for new clothes, Spanx trousers, Working the System, The cricket onslaught, Miscreant Mice and Creepy Flying Squirrels.
Plus: Parish (TV on AMC - Must-See new series), Professor of Rock (YouTube), Michael McDonald & Kenny Loggins, Back to Artemis, Everybody is turning 78, and helping Steven Tyler choose yogurt at Whole Foods.

Happy birthday Joselyn! Anne the Office Manager, Many things to realize about Anne, Anne the Expert Gift Giver, The Shopping Genius of Anne Levine, Stuff Anne has given Michael (Made-In Cookware), Another very big present, Anne goes to the Eye Doctor (Human pincushion stories), The New Doctor, Sticky Stuff in your Eye, Shopping Blind (Literally), and The Incident at the Lighthouse.
Plus: Passover, The "new" Manishewitz Packaging, Seder Stuff, WINE WINE WINE WINE, Ryan NOT REYNOLDS on SNL, Saturday Night Live Casting Craziness, Joselyn is moving to Oregon, and Israel/Iran stuff.

Episode 718 - The Watchlist:


Cowboy Carter starts us off with Anne and Hollywood Michael™, Where Is THAT HAT, Suebell(Cameo, IG, TikTok), Palm Royale (Apple TV+ with Kristin Wiig, Alison Janney, Mindy Cohn, Carol Burnett), Aunt Alma’s Furs, 1980s Flashback to 5th Avenue & 57th St., NO POLITICS SAYS ANNE, Michael doesn’t notice some very noticeable things, Going to the dress Shop (back in the day), and Foil in your purse.
Plus: Parish (Giancarlo Esposito, AMC), Gray’s Anatomy, ONE WORD, The Good Doctor (Shaun), Chicago Med, ChaiFlicks, Israeli TV Shows, Summer House and Deal or No Deal Island.