Best Matt Breen Podcasts (2025)

1
Moina Michael: the Poppy Lady 12:37

22h ago12:37

12:37

In November of 1918, American educator Moina Michael was inspired by the battlefront-theme poem "In Flanders Fields" by Canadian John McCrae. The lines "In Flanders fields the poppies blow / Between the crosses row on row," moved her - and Michael vowed to wear a red poppy as a symbol of remembrance for those who served in the war. And that would b…

1
Chiefs 0-2, Tush Push Drama (Again), Joe Burrow's Injury, and the Dolphins' Mess With Dianna Russini. Plus, Should Miami Be Ranked No. 1? 1:48:04

1d ago1:48:04

1:48:04

Russillo starts the show with his awards for Week 2 in the NFL. Then he’s joined by Dianna Russini to learn more about Joe Burrow’s injury, break down Philadelphia’s big win over the Chiefs, and discuss the rise in QB play this week. Then, Ryen shares his thoughts on the updated AP poll and which teams have impressed in college football. Plus, Life…

1
The Pepsi Navy 13:08

2d ago13:08

13:08

In 1989, the Soviet Union, under President Mikhail Gorbachev, wanted to ensure the soft drink Pepsi kept flowing to the empire. Unfortunately, the USSR lacked the money or goods to realistically trade with PepsiCo, so instead they swapped 17 submarines and three warships in exchange for the syrup. This, according to legend, made Pepsi the commander…

1
The Packers' Ceiling, the Contenders' Biggest Flaws, and the Best Play Callers With Ted Nguyen 1:22:15

4d ago1:22:15

1:22:15

Russillo is joined by Ted Nguyen to break down the Eagles-Chiefs Super Bowl rematch, discuss the biggest flaws among the contenders, and share how NFL defensive coordinators ranked the best offensive minds in the league. Plus, Life Advice with Ceruti and Kyle! (0:00) Welcome to The Ryen Russillo Podcast! (1:56) Russillo welcomes in Ted Nguyen (5:23…

1
The Near Extinction of the Bison 19:02

1d ago19:02

19:02

When Europeans first came to North America, it is estimated that anywhere from 30-60 million bison roamed throughout he continent. And the great beast was the lifeblood of many of the Native American tribes. Yet within a few hundred years, the bison numbered barely 1000 - and the species was on the brink of extinction. This is the story of the near…

1
HMS Investigator and the Northwest Passage – Part 1 – Into the Arctic 35:03

6d ago35:03

35:03

In part 1 of our series, we look at the history of the search for the Northwest Passage, and the Lost Franklin Expedition. We then follow Captain Robert McClure as he leads the Investigator into the Canadian Arctic Archipelago in 1850. Enter to win a copy of "For Glory, Not Gold: Expeditions Through Arctic Lands 1818-1876" by Hubert Sagnières. Go t…

1
The Battle of Fishguard: The Last Invasion of Britain 15:04

6d ago15:04

15:04

In February of 1797, 1400 French troops landed in Pembrokeshire, Wales, as part of the War of the First Coalition. What was meant to stir up rebellion on the British Isles ended in complete disaster, with one Welsh woman single-handedly arresting a dozen of the Frenchmen. The invasion would last a total of three days, and mark the last the time Bri…

1
Caleb Williams Panic Meter, Cardinals Tight End Trey McBride, and 'Task' Creator Brad Ingelsby 1:59:52

6d ago1:59:52

1:59:52

Russillo opens the show with some concerning stats about Caleb Williams. Then, he’s joined by Trey McBride to discuss his hometown, his college career, and why he’s trying to stop hurdling people. Then, ‘Task’ creator Brad Ingelsby comes on to share some inside details about the pilot, the show in general, and whether he’s thought about a second se…

1
The Cardiff Giant: Archeology's Greatest Hoax 11:19

7d ago11:19

11:19

In 1869, workers digging a well at a farm in Cardiff, New York, uncovered what appeared to be the body of an ancient, 10-foot-tall petrified man. The discovery was a world-wide sensation. However, within the year, the Cardiff Giant - as it was called - would be revealed as one of the greatest archeological hoaxes in history. Sources https://www.his…

1
St. Albans Raid - The Civil War's Northern Most Battle 15:04

8d ago15:04

15:04

In October of 1864, the northernmost land battle of the American Civil War took place. Not in Pennsylvania, or New York, but in Vermont, just 18 miles from the Canadian border. 20 Confederate soldiers slipped south and proceeded to rob three banks in the small town of St. Albans, Vermont, before escaping back to the Great White North. Sources https…

1
Are the Ravens Actually Chokers? NFL Week 1 With Mike Sando. Plus, Oklahoma Is Relevant Again and More From Week 2 of College Football. 1:48:14

8d ago1:48:14

1:48:14

Russillo opens the show by recapping Week 1 of the NFL and giving out his best win and worst loss. Then, Mike Sando joins to break down what Buffalo’s comeback means for both teams, discuss the Packers’ massive win, and preview Monday Night Football. Next, Russillo shares his thoughts on this week’s college football action, including Oklahoma’s win…

1
Devils Tower 13:38

9d ago13:38

13:38

In Northwest Wyoming a vertical stone tower sprouts up a thousand feet out of the landscape. The site is so unique and so stunning - it is held as sacred by many Native American tribes, and would become the very first national monument in the United States. This is the story of Devils Tower. Sources https://www.nps.gov/deto/index.htm https://en.wik…

1
Eagles Win, But Hope For the Cowboys? Plus, 32 NFL Team Questions and Super Bowl Picks With Willie Colon. 2:00:11

11d ago2:00:11

2:00:11

Russillo starts the show with his thoughts on DAL-PHI before being joined by Ceruti to answer one question about every NFL team. Then, Willie Colon comes on to recap Dak Prescott’s performance, share his Super Bowl pick, and preview how Aaron Rodgers will look in Pittsburgh. Finally, Life Advice with Ceruti and Kyle! (0:00) Welcome to The Ryen Russ…

1
The 335 Year War 10:59

12d ago10:59

10:59

For 335 years the Netherlands - maybe - fought a long, protracted war against the Isles of Scilly, in the English Channel. It would drag on and on, costing a grand total of zero lives, and only ended when someone bothered to figure out if they were actually still at war. The is the story of the 335 Year War. Sources https://www.historic-uk.com/Hist…

1
The All-Joking, All-Drunken Synod of Fools and Jesters 15:45

13d ago15:45

15:45

At the age of 18, Peter I of Russia - aka - Peter the Great - formed a social club to celebrate the fun things in life - especially drinking. This group would last until Peter’s death - 34 years later. However, the club would become more than just a drinking gang. It became a way to thumb one's nose at convention, the church and the establishment. …

1
Jim Bridger - Part 6 - Powder River Expedition, Red Cloud's War, and final years 29:56

13d ago29:56

29:56

In the final episode in our series on Bridger, we take the mountain man on his final western adventures - the Powder River Expedition, and Red Cloud's War. We then wrap up by talking about the final years of Bridger's life, and his legacy. Sponsors: Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code EXPLORERS at checkout. Downlo…

1
The Accidental Discovery of Penicillin 14:09

14d ago14:09

14:09

In the summer of 1928 one of the happiest accidents in history occurred. Scottish Professor of Bacteriology Alexander Fleming returned from holiday to find bacteria samples had been left out, and one of them grew mold killing the bacteria. The mold was Penicillium Notatum, and it would save millions of lives. This is the story of the discovery of P…

1
Belichick-Brady Legacy Update, Arch’s Struggles, Bama In Trouble, and More from CFB Week 1 With Todd McShay and Danny Kanell 2:11:14

14d ago2:11:14

2:11:14

Russillo opens the show with his thoughts on the biggest Week 1 matchups in college football and an update on his Belichick-Brady legacy tracker. Then, Todd McShay joins to break down the QB performances and reveal which teams he believes should be ranked highest. Next, Russillo is joined by Danny Kanell for a victory lap after Florida State’s upse…

1
Siege of Fort Pulaski 16:50

15d ago16:50

16:50

In April of 1862, Union forces began the siege of Fort Pulaski - which guarded the port of Savannah. The fort was seen as impregnable - with walls more than 10 feet thick. But the Union had some new weapons to deploy - rifled cannons. 30 hours after opening fire - entire sections of Fort Pulaski were reduced to rubble - forcing the Confederate defe…

1
United States Camel Corps 16:02

16d ago16:02

16:02

In the mid 1850s the United State Army embarked on an unusual experiment - use camels to move troops and supplies throughout the southwestern deserts. Several dozen camels were purchased and they were led by some Greek pioneers, the leader of which was named Hadji Ali, or Hi Jolly. And though the US Camel Corps would be a failure, its story would n…

1
Battle of New Orleans 30:24

19d ago30:24

30:24

On Jan. 8, 1815, 8,000 British regulars began an assault on the city of New Orleans. When the smoke cleared - literally - more than 2,000 British troops were dead or injured. American casualties were less and 100. It was the most devastating defeat for England in the War of 1812. This is the story of the Battle of New Orleans. Sources https://en.wi…

1
Part 2: Béla Fleck on the Banjo, His Journey, and Handling Success 41:02

11d ago41:02

41:02

Russillo is joined by Béla Fleck to discuss how he chose the banjo, his path to success, and what it’s like to have other artists look up to him. (0:00) Welcome to The Ryen Russillo Podcast! (4:03) How did you become proficient at the banjo? (6:30) When did you feel like you were taking this instrument in a different direction? (12:44) How did your…

1
True CFB Title Contenders and Week 1 Thoughts With David Pollack. Plus, Adnan Virk Wrote a Book! 2:04:59

19d ago2:04:59

2:04:59

Russillo is joined by David Pollack to share his thoughts on the SEC, preview LSU-Clemson, and break down his favorite QBs. Hear more from David Pollack on his show See Ball Get Ball. Then, Adnan Virk comes on to discuss his new book, how it felt being at the 2017 Oscars, and the feeling of chasing his white whale interview. Plus, Life Advice with …

1
New Coke 15:50

20d ago15:50

15:50

In 1985 the Coca-Cola Company embarked on one of the worst product launches in history. They cast aside their iconic brand and taste in favor of chasing trends, and in the process disillusioned their most loyal customers. This is the story of New Coke. Sources https://www.coca-colacompany.com/about-us/history/new-coke-the-most-memorable-marketing-b…

1
Fighting Jack Churchill 15:32

21d ago15:32

15:32

World War II gave us many unique characters. One of the most eccentric was British army officer Jack Churchill. What made him so interesting? Perhaps it was his penchant for carrying a bow and arrow while on patrol. Or maybe it was the Scottish broadsword he carried on commando raids. Or perhaps it was the bagpipes he played to rally his men. This …

1
Annual NFL Top Five at Every Position With Sheil Kapadia. Plus, Stanford Steve Previews Texas–Ohio State and CFB Week 1. 2:17:05

21d ago2:17:05

2:17:05

Russillo is joined by Sheil Kapadia for the annual rankings of the top five at every position in the NFL! They go through each position and discuss what Josh Allen needs to do to be considered the best QB in the NFL. Then, Stanford Steve comes on to share the teams that could have the biggest variance this season, preview the biggest matchups of We…

1
Mike the Headless Chicken 12:30

22d ago12:30

12:30

In 1945 an ordinary chicken in Fruita, Colorado, was about to have an extraordinary day. His head was chopped off, but instead of dying, like most things do when decapitated, he survived for an astounding 18 months. He would go on a tour of the United States - generating thousands of dollars for his owners. This is the story of Mike the Headless Ch…

1
Jim Bridger - Part 5 - The Utah War, Raynolds Expedition, Bridger Trail and the Telegraph 32:07

22d ago32:07

32:07

This episode covers some of the most dramatic changes of the west in Jim Bridger's life. This includes the Utah War, the coming of the telegraph, and several expeditions of exploration, including the establishment of the Bridger Trail to the goldfields of Montana. Sponsors: Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code EXPL…

1
Mysterious Origins of the Newport Tower 16:11

23d ago16:11

16:11

In Newport, Rhode Island, a round stone tower sits atop a hill overlooking the city and waterfront. To many people, the intricately built tower has been as long as they can remember. And that leads us to the question of when exactly was the tower built. Was it by the early colonists? Or does it predate Europeans arriving in these waters? This is th…

1
Russillo on the Road: St. Barts Travelogue 1:29:21

18d ago1:29:21

1:29:21

Russillo gives a day-by-day account of his solo trip to St. Barts. Check us out on YouTube for exclusive clips, livestreams, and more at https://www.youtube.com/@RyenRussilloPodcast. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Host: Ryen Russillo Producers: S…

1
History of Chess 14:22

26d ago14:22

14:22

One game that has stood the test of time more than most is Chess. On an 8x8 grid, and 32 figurines, the game has enraptured the minds of kings and peasants, generals and poets, for over a millennia. This is the story of the game of chess. Sources "The Immortal Game: A History of Chess" By David Shenk Image: By Alan Light - https://commons.wikimedia…

1
Rob Gronkowski Talks Belichick in College and His Favorite Young Tight End. Plus, Freddie Gibbs on His Biggest Rap Inspirations and More. 2:02:35

26d ago2:02:35

2:02:35

Russillo is joined by Rob Gronkowski to discuss why Bill Belichick will be appealing to younger players, explain why we shouldn’t write off the Chiefs, and share the young tight end he says reminds him of a young Gronk. Then, rapper Freddie Gibbs joins the show to reveal his rapping inspirations, explain what he has left to accomplish, and talk abo…

1
Jim Bridger - Part 4 - Brigham Young, the Mormons, and various expeditions 33:05

27d ago33:05

33:05

In this episode, we detail the growing conflict between Brigham Young and the United States government - and the effect it had on Bridger. We will also talk about Bridger's time as a guide for several expeditions - including his work with an American survey team heading into the mountains around the Yellowstone River. Sponsors: Get an exclusive 15%…

1
Eddie Gaedel: The Smallest Player in Baseball History 16:41

27d ago16:41

16:41

On August 19, 1951, 26 year old Eddie Gaedel stepped up to plate during a major league baseball game. He would promptly take a walk on four straight pitches - then be replaced at first base by another player. Eddie Gaedel never played another game. The reason - he was only 3’7” tall. This is the story of Eddie Gaedel - the smallest person to ever p…

1
Year of the Four Emperors 19:53

28d ago19:53

19:53

After the death of Emperor Nero and a century of stability, the Roman Empire was plunged into chaos. In the space of a single year four different men would hold the imperial throne, and tens of thousands of people would lose their lives. This is the story of the Year of the Four Emperors. Sources "The Year of the Four Emperors" by Kenneth Wellesley…

1
CFB's Latest Terrible Idea, Colts Pick Jones Over Richardson, and the Best Defense in the NFL With Booger McFarland 1:37:08

28d ago1:37:08

1:37:08

Russillo starts the show with thoughts on the Big Ten’s proposed College Football Playoff expansion. Then, Booger McFarland comes on to add his thoughts to the playoff expansion debate, reveal which new college QBs have the best chance to break out, and discuss the Colts' decision to name Daniel Jones as their starting QB. Plus, Life Advice with Ce…

1
Remember the Maine! 20:38

29d ago20:38

20:38

On Jan. 25, 1898, the American armored Cruiser the USS Maine sailed into Havana harbor. Three weeks later, an explosion ripped through the vessel - killing more than 250 sailors and marines. Although the cause of the explosion was unknown, it would be the catalyst for America’s intervention in Cuba - and war with Spain - leading to the battle cry, …

1
572. Navigating Education, Ideology, and Children | Answer the Call 57:35

29d ago57:35

57:35

Dr. Peterson discusses education challenges, praising homeschooling over the flawed K-12 system, exploring new learning models, and stressing critical thinking in a world dominated by low-attention span media environments. He also highlights the importance of teacher passion, character development, and guiding young adults toward responsibility and…

1
504 Protest 17:29

30d ago17:29

17:29

In April of 1978 over one hundred disability rights advocates occupied a federal building in San Francisco. Their goal was to force the Carter administration to fulfill a campaign promise. What followed turned into the longest occupation of a federal building in United States history. This is the story of the 504 Protest. Sources https://www.nps.go…

1
The Great Zimbabwe 14:52

1M ago14:52

14:52

In southern Africa - in the nation of Zimbabwe - an unlikely sight appears in the south-eastern hills near Masvingo. It is the ruins of what was once a great city - including the largest stone structure in precolonial Southern Africa. When Europeans first saw the sprawling site - they speculated who built it. Was it the Phoenicians? Arabs? King Sol…

1
Long-term Concern for Caleb Williams? QB Tiers With Mike Sando and Domonique Foxworth on the Difficulty of Being a Two-Way Player. 1:47:03

1M ago1:47:03

1:47:03

Russillo is joined by Mike Sando to break down his latest QB tiers and explain how they came to this consensus. Then, Domonique Foxworth joins the show to share why he’ll be rooting for Travis Hunter and discuss the intricacies of CBAs. Plus, Life Advice with Ceruti and Kyle! (0:00) Welcome to the Ryen Russillo Podcast! (0:45) Russillo welcomes in …

1
571. Master Relationships and Improve Your Dating Life | Answer the Call 52:47

1M ago52:47

52:47

Dr. Peterson answers caller questions on marriage and family, offering practical advice on how to support your spouse, navigate parenting challenges, overcome the impact of past relationships, and balance multicultural influences. His guidance helps build strong, lasting marriages grounded in patience and understanding.Would you like to join the sh…

1
The Battle Over Parker Dam 10:19

1M ago10:19

10:19

On August 25, 1934, the Governor of Arizona, Benjamin Moeur, declared martial law, dispatching over 100 national guard troops to the site of an invasion. Not by a foreign power, but by California construction workers. It was a battle that made its way to the supreme court, and gave Arizona its own navy. This is the story of the battle over the Park…

1
Discovery of the Venus de Milo 12:50

1M ago12:50

12:50

On April 8, 1820, on the Greek island of Milos, a farmer, Theodoros Kendrotas, uncovered the upper part of a marble statue while working in his field. A visiting French naval officer paid the farmer and his son to uncover the rest of the statue - and when they were done, they would behold one of the greatest works of art in history. This is the sto…

1
College Football Conference Picks, Best QB, Breakout Players, and the Title Picture With Danny Kanell and Bruce Feldman 2:07:11

1M ago2:07:11

2:07:11

Russillo is joined by Danny Kanell to discuss Penn State’s title chances, the uncertain QB landscape, and the SEC. Then, Bruce Feldman comes on to share the team he thinks is best, break down Arch Manning, and explain why we’re always bullish on new coaches. Plus, Life Advice with Ceruti and Kyle! (0:00) Welcome to The Ryen Russillo Podcast! (0:56)…

1
Jim Bridger - Part 3 - Go West! 35:58

1M ago35:58

35:58

In part 3 of our series, the 1840s will feature waves of people coming west - including settlers, miners and Mormons. Bridger will build that will later become a part of the Oregon Trail, and become a guide for those looking to forge new routes through the mountains. Sponsors: Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code E…

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