The Sopranos Podcast

This episode prompts a robust discussion about masculinity in Sopranoland as Chris, Paul & Jordan break down the classic "Unidentified Black Males", a packed and entertaining hour in which the show deconstructs it's own use of the black male scapegoat. Tony Soprano has a dramatic breakthrough about his guilt around his cousin Tony, the war in New York gets taken to the next level, and Meadow & Finn's relationship takes a wild turn after one of the crew gets outed as gay. An episode packed with humor, nuance, grotesque violence and startling revelations manages to ask the question: in a world where everything is built on lies, will the truth really set you free? All this and so much more, right after we get out our suitcase...

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It's "the sweet life" here at the Sopranos Podcast because this week our "cultured Italians" Chris, Paul, & Jordan get to cover  "Marco Polo", a beautiful and charming episode riddled with awesome cinematography, festivity, and Shakespearean envy! Tony B is growing resentful of the life his cousin built while he was in prison, and it boils over in a big decision that puts Tony S in a bad spot. Meanwhile, the Soprano family celebrates Hugh's 75th birthday in a sequence that is both fun, and genuinely sweet, which stands out in a show with so little sweetness. Plus, Phil Leotardo has to deal with the indignity of off-kilter car seats and non-brilliant paint. It's a veritable Midsummer Night's dream in Sopranoland, and we're savoring every minute of it. All this and so much more, right after we twirl our sausages...

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Chris, Paul, and Jordan have a spirited discussion about the controversial "In Camelot", an episode that tends to rank lower on fan lists, but contains some interesting new territory for the show while deliberately making its viewers a little "queasy". Tony meets up with an old goomar of his fathers, Junior is funeral hopping in hopes of getting out of the house for a few hours, and Chris is using his 12 step program to enrich himself. It's a "cringey" hour about debt, and deconstructing the myths of the past. We dig deep into the nitty gritty about Kennedy, Camelot, and Livia Soprano being painted in a new light. All this and more, right after we rock the casbah...

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"Sentimental Education" is a fascinating hour of the show in which the absence of Tony Soprano somehow looms larger than his actual presence. This week Chris, Paul & Jordan break down this episode in which Tony Blundetto desperately fights to open a massage business while resisting the temptations of gangster life, while Carmela explores an exciting romance with Dr. Wegler. Both characters fall into heartbreaking and all too familiar patterns amidst an episode that is a slowdown from last week, but a funny and compelling character exploration nonetheless.  Plus, some discussion about grade changes from our resident educator Jordan, some interesting cultural differences between now and the early 2000's when this aired, and more hatred of "Monsignor Jug-head". All this and more, right after we find Paulie's missing tupperware...

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It's a veritable wildfire in Sopranoland this week as Chris, Lily, Paul, & Jordan cover "Irregular Around the Margins", a top to bottom thrill ride of an episode! No "B" or "C" plots this week, just an insane unfolding of events that spell personal disaster for all involved. As Tony and Adriana come very close to breaking a dangerous "margin", all hell breaks loose as rumor of the affair sweeps North Jersey. The fall out is "can't miss" television with electric scenes, mesmerizing acting, the highest possible stakes, and powerhouse writing. All this and so much more, right after we get the "jim-jams"...

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We're a happy family this week on The Sopranos Podcast, because we get to cover this awesome hour of storytelling! Season five is on fire with no threat of cooling down anytime soon. In "All Happy Families..." we bear witness to AJ's disrespect of Carmela, Carmela's loneliness, and a hell of a swerve in the Feech LaManna storyline! All sorts of fun discussion to be had here about literature, finally meeting Mr. Wegler (of season 4 Billy Budd fame), some really hilarious celebrity cameos, a wedding robbery, a laugh out loud Melfi scene, all while telling a profoundly sad story of a disintegrating family, leaving it's nurturing matriarch to wander an immaculate mansion by her lonesome. All this and so much more, right after we unglue our faces from the rug...

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It’s a wide range of emotions this week as we cover “Where’s Johnny?”, an episode that provides some deeply sad moments, some thrills, and plenty of laughs altogether.  It’s a rich episode about selfishness, old wounds, and lonliness. Junior’s mental state is starting to slip further away from reality as he wanders through Newark looking for his deceased brother. Tony struggles to stay out of the escalating violence in New York, and Paulie goes head to head with Feech over landscaping. Plus! Jordan looks up “half and half” for us on Urban Dictionary. All this and so much more, right after we shit in our hats…

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Season five is off to a great start! This week the boys cover "Rat Pack" in which we meet Tony B, the New York situation escalates, and we check in with all of our "rats" on the show. There's plenty of good discussion to be had about Steve Buscemi's performance early on, what it means to have "friends" in the mob life, and of course more conversation about the FBI and how they interact with Tony's world. Plus, some movie talk, as the Soprano women start a film club! It's a quiet, but juicy hour of good television. All this and so much more, coming up after we knock off the massage shit...

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We're back and we couldn't be more excited! What a great opening! Chris, Paul, Jordan, & Lily discuss the season 5 premiere "Two Tonys" and all the duality within! It's a wild, funny, playful, and dark hour of tv with bears, rejections, and fascinating character moments. Melfi has to reject Tony's advances, several new characters dubbed "The class of '04" are out of prison, a major character goes down, and Christopher & Paulie almost kill each other over the dinner tab. Plus - A BEAR! All this and more, right after we figure out what happened with the Easter baskets....

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Happy holidays everyone! Chris, Paul, Lily & Jordan wish you all nothing but health and happiness in the new year. When is season 5 coming?? Listen and find out!

We continue our retrospective of Season 4! In this half, we engage in a fiery listener mail segment! Were we too soft on Adriana / too critical of the FBI? There are several deep discussions about Ralphie, Christopher, Adriana, Furio, and the Soprano kids - PLUS, our top three categories continue with top three characters/performances, top three moments, and top three episodes!

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Season 4 is an unusual, pattern-breaking, introspective journey with an explosive end! We're thrilled to finally get to talk about the big picture! Chris, Lily, Paul, & Jordan discuss what makes season 4 special, where it ranks with the other seasons, and why it "felt" so much different. There are several great discussions here about Tony's role as husband / partner, Carmela's heartbreaking journey, dreams, therapy, the increased importance of the New York family, and of course - our top 3's! In this half, we give you our top three food moments, top three music cues, and top three quotes!

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Chris, Lily, Paul, & Jordan discuss what is, arguably, the best season finale yet: "Whitecaps". Junior's trial wraps up, tensions between NJ and NY hit a fever pitch, only to pull back at the last second, and Tony's worst nightmare comes true as the Soprano family finally disintegrates from within. At its core, our coverage of Whitecaps will feel like one giant love letter to the actress Edie Falco and the character Alan Sapinsly. As David Chase and company wrap up the rich and misunderstood season four, we discuss the ways this episode not only concludes this strange season perfectly, but also closes the loop on several events from the series pilot. We're truly honored to cover this masterclass in television drama. All this and so much more, right after we tort you into the poor house...

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The penultimate episode "Eloise" baffled Chris, Paul, and Jordan in the best possible way. For three seasons, The Sopranos have given us wild and explosive penultimate episodes. They completely change it up this year though! Even the gangsters are being passive-aggressive. The rich action is all happening underneath the surface for our characters as Furio leaves town, New Jersey and New York's problems come to a head, Junior's trial takes a dark turn, and Paulie realizes he's been played. It's a contemplative, unnerving, and deep episode, driven by an absolutely elegant script, themes of parental jealousy, a white glove motif, and a monumental performance by Edie Falco. Plus! Paul spits fire for all of us as he breaks down Billy Budd. All this and more, right after we disappear to Naples for Christ's sake...

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What an eerie and delightful surprise favorite of season 4! Chris, Paul & Jordan have a blast breaking down "Calling All Cars", an episode in which many characters are calling out for communication with the dead, while Tony cuts off the best source of communication he has among the living. Therapy is in serious jeopardy, while Bobby is forced by Janice to reconcile with his dead wife. AJ continues his rigorous "studying", while the situation with New York escalates with the introduction of the hilarious Camine Lupertazzi Jr. All this, plus more evidence of a supernatural presence looming over Sopranoland, and some killer dream sequences! Coming up right after our chat with Captain Jacobus...

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Chris, Paul & Jordan share loads of laughs this week as they break down "The Strong Silent Type" which simultaneously deals with incredibly bleak subject matter, while quite possibly delivering some of the funniest scenes in the show's history.  Everything is heating up to a boil, and it's not clear where it's all going. Furio and Tony. Tony and New York. Chris and his drug addiction. Carmela and Furio - all of it is juggled beautifully here. Plus, there are some really dynamite Melfi scenes where Tony starts asking some big questions that tie all the way back to the pilot episode. Who, in this show, really embodies the "Strong Silent Type"? All this and more, right after we steal all those pork loins from Stew Leonard's...

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Chris, Lily, Paul, & Jordan break down the monumental "Whoever Did This". Structurally, this episode is one of the most unique outings in the series, not only for its script, but for its placement in the season. Acts of God and acts of Gangster abound, as Tony and Ralph's relationship finally boils over in the most brutal possible way. Plus! Christopher comes to Tony's aid... or maybe he did-dent? Wonderful performances, wonderful script, one of the all time great episodes. All this coming up, right after we look for some Visene...

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"Mergers & Acquisitions" is a tricky episode in that none of the story threads pay off in a big way, but the action going on beneath the surface is incredibly rich. Lily joins Chris, Paul, & Jordan this week to further discuss the theme of money this season and why it's so essential to the story being told. These characters are all moving assets around, personal or otherwise, and the lives of our characters only get more complicated. Paulie tries to settle his mother into Green Grove, Tony once again wrestles with boredom, and Carmela takes bold action when Tony's extramarital activities make their way into the home. Plus! A whole lot of talk about Ralphie, as the show subtly tips off the audience as to where his hatred of women comes from. All this and more just as soon as we hit on 18...

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There is some righteous anger on our podcast this week as Chris, Paul, and Jordan dissect the extremely cynical, but wildly entertaining "Watching Too Much Television". This week Tony, Ralphie, and Zellman engage in one of the most gut churning scams we've seen on the show. It's a pitch black reflection of the American political system, and it's one you can't look away from. Themes of sentimentality and humiliation run deep as Tony doles out some truly biblical punishment in an unforgettable final sequence. Plus! Furio and Carmela's attraction continues to escalate, and Adriana searches for any way out of her current predicament, even if the only way out is all just a television induced fantasy. Fantastic hour of drama! Listen to the boys break it all down, right after we extend to you the same courtesy we would a crack addict...

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In this episode, Chris, Paul, & Jordan break down "Everybody Hurts"! This episode is about sight - The way the characters see themselves and the way they wish to be perceived is all in question. After a tragic revelation, Tony is forced to come to terms with whether or not he is a "toxic person". He gets his answer by episode's end after enabling Artie Bucco's short and pitiful stint in the loansharking business. AJ isn't spared existential questions about how he is perceived when he finds out that the "gangster dudes girlfriend" is far wealthier than he ever imagined. Who is AJ without Tony Soprano as his father? How is he seen by his friends and his new girlfriend Devin? All this and so much more as we eagerly sink our teeth into this episode's incredible script, whip-smart direction by Steve Buscemi, and tour de force acting from John Ventimiglia, all coming up right after we see if our message machine is broken...

R.I.P. Tony Sirico!!

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Themes of loneliness, isolation, illness, and ownership bring a bleak sensibility to the mid-season "set-up" episode "Pie-Oh-My", but it's still a riveting hour of television. Chris, Paul, & Jordan talk all about the new horse in Tony's life and whether or not he's placing the right bets. Meanwhile, Adriana is spiraling into a tailspin as the FBI and Christopher's mob activities close in on her nightclub, and Janice closes in on a still grieving Bobby. Plus: Junior's trial is ongoing, and he is not prepared to suffer further indignity at the hand of the courtroom artist. All this and so much more, just as soon as we rummage Murf's pockets for change...

R.I.P. Goldee - This one's for you

"The Weight" is an extremely well-written episode that builds incredible tension amidst a backdrop of humor, passion, and heartache. Chris, Paul, & Jordan had a blast breaking down the most exciting episode of Season 4 so far! Ralphie's joke about Ginny leads to an explosive showdown between he and Johnny Sack that makes for some amazing television. What does the show have to say about body image, particularly the way women's bodies are talked about vs. the men's? Also - things between Carmela and Furio are heating up into the danger zone like the explosive volcanic Vesuvius! What havoc will "The Weight" of this growing desire reap on the Soprano household? Plus! Our hosts break down what might be the single most bizarre and unsettling scene in the whole series to date! All this, and so much more, right after we  bend more rules than the Catholic church...

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"Christopher" regularly gets touted as one of the worst episodes of the series. Is this a fair assessment? What were the writers going for here? Did it work? Was it worthwhile? In the first part of our show, Chris, Paul, and Jordan discuss the various plot threads including Ralphie and Johnny Sack's relationship disintegrating, Paulie stirring trouble up from prison, and the tragic death of Bobby's wife Karen. In the back half of our show, our three Italian-American hosts have a very candid discussion about image, identity, self-esteem, America, and of course - Christopher Columbus. This being one of the most unique Sopranos episodes in the series, we felt compelled to cover it in a unique way that we hope you all enjoy! If nothing else, "Christopher" prompted a hell of a conversation. All this and more, just as soon as we "subgate" each other...

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The scope of what Season 4 is going for becomes much more apparent after this deep and introspective hour. We break down why "No Show" is a sleeper favorite for our hosts. Meadow's regression has deeper and darker undertones that boil to the surface, Tony is forced to reckon with how his life as "Mr. Mob Boss" has affected his children, and a dangerous game is played between Christopher, Silvio, and Patsy when Chris is made acting Capo of Paulie's crew while Paulie is away. PLUS, things come crashing down around Adriana in truly tragic fashion as the FBI is forced to finally play their hand. It's just scene after scene of glittering reward and brutal consequence this go around and we're pumped to cover it! All this and so much more, right after we projectile vomit on the feds...

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Season 4 begins with "For All Debts Public and Private", a more reflective and deliberate hour than we're used to for "The Sopranos" premieres, but nonetheless an episode with plenty of interesting stories and developments. More than ever before, this episode and the beginning of this season is centered around money. This comes with a lot of uncertainty and anxiety in a post-9/11 world, as the ideas that give money its value - trust, fidelity, faith, confidence in the future - are in short supply, particularly for these characters. Chris, Paul & Jordan discuss this shift in thematic priority, and also cover Chris Moltisanti's not so glamorous revenge, Carmela's loneliness, Junior's trial, Tony's weight gain, and so much more! What does the future hold? No one knows, but Carmela lays out one certainty: Everything comes to an end. 

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Our break down of Season Three continues! In this half of the Retrospective, Chris, Paul & Jordan talk about a slew of topics ranging from Peter Bogdanovich, to how Tony's therapy is going, to the state of the Mob Family, the women on the show, the haunting presence of Big Pussy, and - for the first time ever - we respond directly to some listener mail! You all sent us some fun stuff! PLUS, we conclude our top 3 categories, which are: Top 3 Characters/Performances, Top 3 Moments, and Top 3 Episodes! 

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Three Seasons in, and The Sopranos is running at all-time creative highs with no signs of slowing down, but Season 3 remains the most unique of the three so far. Chris, Paul, and Jordan are here to talk about how and why. In Part 1 of our retrospective, we discuss Nancy Marchand's death, the legacy Livia left on the show, and how the show might have been different had she survived. We discuss Tony in the thematic and literal role of "Parent", Ralph Cifaretto / Joe Pantoliano, Johnny Sack, the elevation of the New York family in the story, and so much more. Plus! We drop more of our hot "Top 3" categories, including: favorite quotes, favorite food moments, and favorite music cues. Lots of laughs, "what ifs", and good conversation here! Join us!

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"The Army of One" is by far the most reflective, somber, and inconclusive season finales of The Sopranos so far, and yet it's a quiet, unsettling masterpiece. Chris, Paul, & Jordan discuss how this episode simultaneously closes the emotional threads on Season 3, but also leaves many intriguing possibilities for Season 4. A lot happens in this hour, but the big questions that loom over the head of our favorite Jersey Mob boss in this episode have no easy answers: How has the life Tony leads affected his children? Can Tony and Carmela save AJ from the catastrophic fate met by Jackie Jr and the many other doomed young men we've met on this show? Can Meadow reconcile her own sense of morality when she, more than anyone else, is able to recognize the hypocrisy and "bullshit" of the family she was born into? This finale wrestles with these questions in a beautiful and satisfying way, while also providing no solid answers. Plus! Shenanigans with Janice, more great work from Joe Pantoliano as Ralphie, the return of a healthy Uncle Junior, sneaky business from Johnny Sack, and we get to meet Paulie's adorable mother! All this and more, just as soon as we almost drown in three inches of water at the penguin exhibit...

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They've done it again! Three seasons in a row, The Sopranos have delivered a 10/10 penultimate chapter, and "Amour Fou" may just be the best of the bunch. Chris, Paul, and Jordan discuss this electric hour that delivers scene after scene of scintillating drama and incredible payoff to the season's various storylines. Jackie sticks up the wrong card-game, Carmela learns to set some personal boundaries, and Tony and Gloria's relationship finally culminates in its explosive and tragic conclusion. Top performances from all involved, and Frank Renuzlli's final script as a writer on the Sopranos! All this and so much more in our longest episode ever, just as soon as we ruin eight relationships...

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Chris, Paul, & Jordan have been waiting for three seasons to cover this episode! "Pine Barrens" is an all-time classic, and a perpetual fan-favorite in the Sopranos canon! Tony finds himself at the center of a pin-wheel of chaos as stress from home, stress from Gloria, and stress from work culminate when Chris and Paulie get lost in the woods after botching a shockingly simple task. It's a comedy of errors, set amidst the stark and lonely South Jersey wilderness! It's also one of the most quotable hours in the history of television. Plus: Steve Buscemi gets behind the camera to direct! All this and more, just as soon as we stop at Roy Rogers...

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Ho Ho Ho! It's a Sopranos Christmas special! (Sort of). Chris, Paul, and Jordan break down "To Save Us All From Satan's Power" in which Tony, Paulie, and Silvio struggle through their first Christmas without Big Pussy. There are some truly fascinating moments in this hour in which our characters learn that that day on the boat, and the years preceding it, will continue to haunt them one way or another. Also this episode, Bobby gets a new job, Tony scratches items off his list, including vengeance on the Russian that beat up Janice, and Jackie Jr. "bottoms out". This is the spiritual "sequel" to Season 2's "Funhouse" episode, and we couldn't be more excited to discuss it, right after we gift our Dads a Big Mouth Billy Bass...  

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Happy New Year! This week, Chris, Paul & Jordan analyze Michael Imperioli's second outing as a writer with Season Three's "The Telltale Moozadell".  On the surface this is a much quieter episode than we've been getting, but it's just brimming with intrigue and growing tension! Jackie Jr. steps up his role in both families, and things heat up in a big way between Tony and Gloria after a sensual date at the Bronx Zoo. All while AJ acts up in school, again. Will there be any consequences, other than a hilarious scene at a pizza parlor? Plus! Melfi sees through Tony and Gloria's lies, and she's none too happy about it. All of this, and lots of talk about Edgar Allen Poe, the Happy Birthday song, and the deluge of self-serving gift giving that permeates this episode. Coming up, right after we vandalize a swimming pool and order a custom pizza... 

R.I.P Peter Bogdanovich!

Merry Christmas everyone! This week, Chris, Paul, & Jordan keep in the spirit of the holidays by dissecting the exciting season three episode "He Is Risen", centered around Thanksgiving. The rivalry between Tony & Ralphie is the talk of North Jersey and something has to give. Things escalate even further when Johnny Sack "sticks his beak in" to try and settle the beef. While this is happening, Meadow and Jackie Jr. seem to be fanning the flames of attraction. Amidst all this, we also get an unexpected character death, a great Junior scene, and the debut of several fascinating new characters. How does Thanksgiving play out in a show where all the characters are longing for something they don't currently have? And what is the deal with the attractive and sophisticated Gloria Trillo from Globe Motors? All this and more, just as soon as we throw a grape at a narcoleptic...

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* We experienced a few technical issues during the recording of this episode. Please excuse any disruptions to our audio quality. Since this recording we have upgraded our equipment to avoid future issues.

Chris, Paul, & Jordan are past the halfway point of Season Three, and have a blast breaking down the dynamic "Second Opinion". In this hour, Christopher deals with cruel hazing amidst his "probationary period", Tony uses his gangster cunning to perform a heroic act for Junior, and Carmela is forced to confront some uncomfortable truths about her life when she gets a "second opinion" of her own from an old mentor of Dr. Melfi's. Some truly marvelous acting here from Edie Falco, amidst an episode that runs a wide gamut of emotions and propels us into the back half of this excellent season. PLUS! Lots (and lots) of talk about "Big Mouth Billy Bass"! All this coming up right after we smack a bee offa you hat!

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* We experienced a few technical issues during the recording of this episode. Please excuse any disruptions to our audio quality. Since this recording we have upgraded our equipment to avoid future issues.

Lily is back on the show this week to discuss the controversial episode "University" with Chris, Paul, & Jordan! We discuss the sharp nuance and vivid brutality of this script which masterfully tells parallel stories of two young women in two very different circumstances. It's a rough hour, but an impactful one. Ralph Cifaretto, played by the brilliant Joe Pantoliano, finally gives us a peek behind the curtain into who he really is, while Meadow juggles a difficult situation between Noah and her roommate Kaitlyn. Also, difficult questions are asked this week about women, their role in the Sopranos universe, and where the line is betwee women and livestock in the minds of the men in this show.  Plus! An engaging conversation about the cultural backlash this third season faced, with angry customers calling to cancel their HBO subscriptions. Was it warranted? Do the show creators have a problem with their treatment of women? We get into it! All this and so much more!

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Chris, Paul, & Jordan share a lot of spirited, laughter filled minutes together breaking down "Another Toothpick", one of Season Three's more wild and hectic hours. In this episode we meet two new characters in Bobby Baccilieri Sr. and Mustang Sally, Junior struggles with an unfortunate diagnosis and some rabid superstition centered around the "Rule of Three", and after a tumultuous therapy session, Tony goes on an interesting and self-reflective journey when he is pulled over by the straight-laced Officer Leon. PLUS - The Bucco marriage is collapsing. Artie's midlife crisis (complete with earring) gets him into a drunken scrap with Christopher! All this and MORE just as soon as we have hair like Casey Kasem...

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Chris, Paul & Jordan welcome Lily back to the podcast to help break down "Employee Of The Month" one of the most impactful, intense, and beautiful episodes in the Sopranos canon. In this hour Melfi is victimized by a terrible act of sexual violence, and Lorraine Bracco gives a tour de force performance as the story unfolds. Our hosts discuss how this episode does a masterful job of depicting this delicate and brutal subject matter with dignity, but without watering down its horror, all the while still managing to give us the top level acting, writing, directing, and design that made this show the best of all time. Also - some great conversation about Ralphie getting passed over, Johnny Sack moving to Jersey, and the Russians getting a "leg up" on Janice. 

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Huge episode for Christopher Moltisanti! He finally becomes a Made Man! Chris, Paul, & Jordan break it down, along with the rest of the Season Three classic "Fortunate Son". This hour of television sees AJ become a star football player, Jackie Jr. becoming a wheelman, crucial flashbacks to a traumatic day in Tony's life, and Christopher learns that being a "made man" aint all it's cracked up to be. Great Melfi scenes, great mob action, and great family drama - this episode delivers it all! It all points to a sad and stark reality for the world of The Sopranos, and that is: There really are no "Fortunate Sons" in this lifestyle. This is not a universe that is kind or nurturing to its young men. PLUS, the Meadow, Noah, and Tony situation escalates! All this and more, just as soon as we disrespect the pizza parlor!

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Goodbye Little Livia. With "Proshai Livushka" The Sopranos says goodbye to actress Nancy Marchand, who passed away in between seasons two and three, with a very unpleasant but powerful hour of television. Chris, Paul, and Jordan break it all down including a discussion about the 1931 film "The Public Enemy", a discussion about Livia's legacy as relates to her family and the world of the show as a whole, and they discuss why, although masterfully told, this episode is not one any of us are looking forward to revisiting anytime soon. PLUS! A discussion about very real ghosts on the show, and the first appearance of Ralph Cifaretto, played by Joe Pantoliano! What does his short appearance here portend for Tony and the rest of the season? All this great stuff and we promise there will be none of that "California bullshit"!

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We're back! Season Three of The Sopranos is off to the races! Chris, Paul, & Jordan share many laughs breaking down the most unique season premiere we've seen so far!  In this episode we break down why "Mr. Ruggerio's Neighborhood" might play better in a modern "binge watch" format than it does on week to week viewing. We catch up with the "Bing" family, see what everyone has been up to since the end of Season Two, and we discuss how the show managed to humanize our "Fed" characters while spotlighting the futility and hilarity of their mission. Also: Patsy Parisi puts his grief behind him. Will Tony's swimming pool ever be the same? All this and MORE, just as soon as we tie our shoes and have a bite of bracciole! 

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We're back for the second half of our Season 2 retrospective! This time the conversation centers around the women and the elderly characters of season 2, particularly Livia, Junior, Dr. Melfi, and Carmela. Plus, we finish off our "Top 3" categories with our favorite moments, favorite characters / performances, and favorite episodes. We close out season two of our podcast with a lot of laughter, fond reminiscence, and we talk about what we are most looking forward to in Season 3 - Spoiler free of course. 

We will be on a short hiatus to close out the summer, but we will be back THIS FALL for Season 3!!

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There's no "Sophomore Slump" for The Sopranos! David Chase and company have given us another groundbreaking season of television and we can't wait to talk about it. Chris, Paul, Jordan and Lily have a laughter filled conversation as we discuss Season 2 as a whole, Tony being cast as "brother", what Janice and Richie brought to the show, the tragedy of "Big Pussy", and Meadow growing up and finally leaving the nest. We also continue our tradition of bringing you some "Top 3" Categories including our favorite quotes, our favorite food moments, and our favorite music cues. PLUS: A heartfelt discussion about what it has meant to the hosts of The Sopranos Podcast to be able to come together and talk about this great show all year. Also lots (and lots) of food talk.

Part 2 to follow!

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The season 2 finale of The Sopranos, entitled "Funhouse", is a gift to analytical podcasts like ours. Hosts Chris, Paul, & Jordan can't wait to jump into the deep water on this one. Dream interpretations galore as we dissect one of the most inventive and imaginative episodes yet. As the Big Pussy storyline reaches its tragic and inevitable conclusion, Tony's subconscious screams at him through a series of wild fever dreams. Is Tony ready to cut this cancer out? What does it all mean? What really made Tony so sick? Great discussion is had about Asbury Park, New Jersey, Indian food, and how the show uses dreams to further the story. Plus! Melfi is back on her game, but is Tony ready to dive deep?  What is the significance of centering this episode around a graduation? Will these characters ever truly find their way out of the Funhouse? All this and more, just as soon as we douse ourselves in clarified butter...

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Bang! "The Knight in White Satin Armor" is  one of the most shocking and emotionally resonant chapters of The Sopranos yet, and our hosts Chris, Paul, & Jordan couldn't be more excited to talk about it. Pussy is at the end of his rope, Tony's extramarital affair bleeds into the Soprano home, and after a long day of plotting to kill Tony, Richie and Janice have a lovely dinner together. It's an episode about reflection, characters coming to terms with who they really are, and beautifully staged scenes of domestic tranquility that erupt into explosive chaos. All this and so much more, right after we tango and foxtrot in front of everybody...

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Only a show like The Sopranos could make an episode about boredom so damn captivating.  Chris, Paul & Jordan break it down this week with a lot of laughter and joy. In this episode where characters are forced by their circumstances to stagnate and be "still", we get to see how the stress and sociopathy of mob life inflicts deep permanent wounds on these characters. Meanwhile, as Tony and Junior are struggling with forced mundanity, Melfi's life is coming unraveled because of her treatment of Tony. Plus we eagerly dissect the truly scintillating performance of Uncle Junior by Dominic Chianese in this episode, combined with a magnificently subtle outing by writer Terrence Winter. All this and more! Coming up as soon as we get some moisturizer recommendations from Paulie Walnuts...

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Wheel in the sky keeps on turning! The Season two episode "Bust Out" is all about hypocrisy, cycles, and planning for ends that may or may not ever come. This week Chris, Paul & Jordan break down the Scatino bust-out, Tony's frustrating therapy sessions, the fallout from the Bevallaqua murder, and Carmella's brief affair with a wallpaper man. The show is pulling out all the stops as they race toward season two's conclusion, and there is no lack of compelling things to talk about here. Lots of laughs and lots of analysis about Tony's anxiety, fear, and the many displays of hypocrisy across the board from every character in this hour. All coming up right after we wash our eyes with bleach following that Janice and Richie scene....

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"From Where to Eternity" is such a special episode of The Sopranos that Chris' wife Lily had to join the boys this week to break it all down. The show uses Christopher's precarious medical condition to tackle some really big universal questions. Is there a God? Heaven? Hell? What are the cosmic consequences of the life these characters have chosen?  What kind of "fuckin' ghouls'" are these characters dragging around with them?  Who out there is watching us? The show makes some really bold choices in this hour, including a possible trip to the afterlife, a brutal and personal murder, and a visit to a psychic that will haunt Paulie for years to come. Plus: A great discussion about faith, a whole lot of laughs, and by far the most intimate scene between Edie Falco and James Gandolfini on the show to this point.  All this and more, right after we book the Bella Vista room at 3:00 ;)

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"Full Leather Jacket" may be the shortest episode of The Sopranos, but it's one of the more entertaining and  impactful chapters in Season 2! This episode sees many of our characters giving up various offerings - A ricotta pie, a treasured jacket, an engagement ring, a tray of food, even murder!  But very few of these offerings bring results that our characters understand or could have predicted, and it's becoming clear that things are heading into rough waters. There's also quite a bit of passionate conversation this week about David Proval's finest acted moment so far, Carmela employing some truly expert gangsterism, Melfi and Tony's awkward therapy, and of course - hilarious dinner scenes.  All this and more!

Happy Easter Sunday! This week Chris, Paul & Jordan discuss Season 2 Episode 7: D-Girl! This episode proves itself to be a contender for Jordan's favorite of the season. It's also The Sopranos' most openly philosophical episode to date. Christopher takes a huge step into the movie business, AJ stumbles onto existentialism just in time for his confirmation, and the FBI is turning up the pressure on Big Pussy. Our discussion hits on all of these stories and how they were pulled together into an episode that is gut-bustingly funny, yet terrifyingly bleak in its outlook. Is it all just "a big nothing"? Plus one hell of a guest appearance by Jon Favreau! 

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Valderi! Valdera! Come join our happy song! This week the boys break down "The Happy Wanderer", an exciting high point for season two! This episode centers around the high stakes "Executive Game" and we get a real inside look at the predatory practices that put food on the Soprano dinner table. This episode is packed with excitement, humor, danger, and some very powerful scenes that unveil the way in which Tony not only victimizes those he preys upon, but his own children and the world at large. Everyone is compromised and no one gets off scot-free. All this, plus a deep exploration of luck, cruel random fate, gambling addiction, and the myth of "The Happy Wanderer"! 

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We've really been looking forward to this one! This week, Chris, Paul, & Jordan break down "Big Girls Don't Cry", in which Christopher goes to acting class! All of our hosts have been in classes for actors and writers at some point in their lives. The conversation is lively as they pull from their own experience to analyze just what is going on with Christopher during this hour of drama! But Christopher isn't the only character struggling to find some kind of emotional outlet. What is it that has Tony Soprano ripping phones out of walls and grabbing another man's testicles? Should Dr. Melfi take Tony Soprano back into therapy? PLUS - Furio comes over to America and makes a shocking and brutal impact on his first job. All this and more! 

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Commendatori! In this episode, after an interesting conversation about cultural differences between Italians from Italy and Italian-Americans (Gabagool vs. Capicola), Chris, Paul, & Jordan break down one of the more unique and powerful hours of The Sopranos yet. Tony, Chris, and Paulie take a trip to Italy and none of their expectations are met. Back home in Jersey, Carmella fights to save Pussy and Angie's marriage, but what is it she's really fighting for? We also get to meet a brutal new mob enforcer named Furio. It's an episode fraught with wild emotional highs, humor, a David Chase cameo, and a whole lot of Andrea Boccelli. All this and more as we enroll in "Naples University"! 

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"Veal Parmesan Sandwich...?" The status quo on The Sopranos is shaken to it's core in "Toodle-Fucking-Ooo" by the arrival of Jackie Aprile's brother Richie. What does this arrival portend for Tony and his family (and Family)? Chris, Paul, & Jordan discuss the consequences of Richie Aprile being back in north Jersey, while Tony & Carmela discuss consequences for Meadow trashing "her grandmother's house" with a wild party. PLUS! Dr. Melfi has a compelling experience as we explore her dreams, and the consequences of her decision to abandon Tony as a patient! All this and more in this explosive episode about regression, rules, and consequences!

Chris, Paul, & Jordan break down the deceptively dense "Do Not Resuscitate", an episode rich with recurring theme and some particularly special character moments! This is an episode, most of all, about loyalty and family, particularly elderly family and the past they represent. What bits from the past serve our characters? What bits from the past are best left "not resuscitated"? In this chapter, the two biggest schemers in television (Livia & Janice) are working each other and other members of the Soprano family as they go head to head over a "DNR", while Tony works a scheme of his own around a racially charged protest at Massarone Construction. Plus! A gut wrenching truth about a beloved character is confirmed, AJ spills the beans again, and so much more!

Merry Christmas everyone! We're back for SEASON 2! The season premiere "Guy Walks Into A Psychiatrists Office..." closes the loop on a season 1 mystery, and sets us off quickly into new and exciting territory! The scope of the show expands as we meet Tony's eccentric sister Janice (AKA Parvati), Carmela's parents, and two new hot-head troublemakers working for Christopher. Plus! Things do not seem to be going well in between Tony & Carmela! Also, what does the future hold for Tony & Dr. Melfi? All this and more as the minds behind this brilliant show set us up for another classic season of television!

Our season one retrospective continues! In this half we continue our top 3 lists including character/performances, moments, and episodes! Lots of great conversation about Junior, Melfi, & Artie Bucco! PLUS: Chris, Paul, Jordan & Lily discuss the Soprano kids in depth, in addition to a great discussion about the impact The Sopranos had on American culture and television as a medium!  

That's one groundbreaking season of television in the books! We have a LOT to cover in this detailed retrospective! Show producer & Chris' wife Lily joins Chris, Paul & Jordan to talk about season one of The Sopranos. In Part 1, we talk in depth about Tony & Dr. Melfi's relationship, and a whole lot about Livia & Junior. We also dish out several of our "Top 3's" in several categories including quotes, food moments, and music cues. PLUS!  Things get personal as we pull back the curtain and share our "behind the scenes" journey through the making of this podcast, our deep love for The Sopranos, and how this project kept us all sane and together during such insane & lonely times.

Part 2 to follow!

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It's season finale time! "I Dream Of Jeannie Cusamano" is as  satisfying, dynamic, and exciting a season finale as it could possibly be! Join Chris, Paul, & Jordan in our episode "An Individualist" as they discuss just how well this finale ties up nearly every story thread of season one in entertaining and dramatic fashion. Tony's true enemy is finally revealed and the status quo changes forever for the Sopranos. Where does Tony go from here? Was therapy a success? Can the Soprano family navigate the storm that is upon them and also "focus on the little moments that were good"? And what is the next step for our little podcast?? 

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The hits keep on coming as "Isabella" enters the mix. Chris, Paul, & Jordan can't help but fawn over what may be one of the best hours of The Sopranos ever made. In "The Midas Touch" they  talk about Tony Soprano's entry into the realm of myth as the failed attempt on his life resurrects him from walking death. Plus! Excellent discussions on the masterful use of music in this episode, the meaning behind the wind, the clever cinematography used to convey Tony's emotional journey, and of course the tour de force performance from James Gandolfini. All this and SO much more! 

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Is Pussy a rat? Is the rat "fuckin' Jimmy"? Where does Tony stand with Livia and Uncle Junior? Not only will these characters not get answers to these questions, but the viewers won't get them either! Nonetheless, "Nobody Knows Anything" is the most intense and high-stakes episode of The Sopranos thus far! Chris, Paul, & Jordan discuss why this episode felt like a Coen Brothers movie, and why it worked on nearly all levels as characters come to grips with betrayal, mystery, and a rapid escalation in the level of danger for all involved. PLUS: A discussion on the incredibly rich acting featured in this episode, as well as a heartfelt goodbye to the always excellent John Heard, as the character of Vin Mikazian tenders an uh... early resignation. All this and MORE!

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In "Multiple Choice" our hosts have their first major disagreement about season one episode "A Hit is a Hit"! One liked it, one loved it, and one didn't care for it all that much. We'll discuss why this episode's placement in the season might have more to do with that than the actual episode itself. Plus! Chris, Paul, & Jordan discuss how this episode has some "Gatsby" notes as characters branch out of their comfort zones, while showcasing some truly wonderful character work from Hesh, Christopher & Adriana. All this and much more!

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On today's episode "Retreat" Chris, Paul, & Jordan break down one of the best episodes of season one - Boca. This thrilling chapter gives us two dynamic storylines about sexual taboos being broken, secrets coming to light, and the emotional labor taken on by the women on this show. There's also a lot of Artie Bucco talk as he steps into the spotlight in a big way. PLUS a discussion on what makes this one of the most funny, heartbreaking, and consequential episodes in the whole season!

Chris' crowdfunder for The Information War: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-information-war-web-series/x/24318593#/

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Season one, episode eight of The Sopranos entitled The Legend of Tennesee Moltisanti is all about image. It's about how these characters see themselves, how others see them, and how the legend of the American gangster looms over all of it. Chris, Paul, and Jordan discuss Chris Moltisanti's search for his "arc" as well as the looming federal indictments. PLUS, an intriguing subplot about Italian-American identity launches a discussion about self-esteem and the morality of Melfi treating a man like Tony Soprano!

Chris' crowdfunder for The Information War: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-information-war-web-series/x/24318593#/

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Time to discuss the season one episode "Down Neck"! Our hosts discuss AJs recent behavioral problems and how much of it is Tony's fault. Is AJ doomed by genetics to repeat the mistakes of the past? We also get our first glimpse of the much heralded "glory days" of the past through a series of highly stylized (and fun) flashbacks to Tony's childhood. PLUS Jordan brilliantly taps into his experience as a professional educator to discuss AJ's behavior in school and what he thinks of a potential A.D.D. diagnosis! All this and more!

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The brilliant and fun episode "Pax Soprana" asks the question: What does "peace" look like in the world of The Sopranos? How is that balance achieved in Tony Soprano's life? PLUS! Tony reveals romantic and sexual feelings for Melfi. What does this mean for their therapeutic relationship? Does Melfi have feelings for Tony? Chris, Paul, & Jordan discuss all of this and more! 

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The first monolithic episode of The Sopranos! Listen in as Chris, Paul & Jordan break down James Gandolfini's favorite episode: "College". Why does this episode stand out? How does it hold up all these years later? Why was this one of the most important hours of television ever produced? All this plus a great discussion of the many "contradictions" on display in this episode that will weave through the fabric of the entire series!

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In their most lively discussion yet, our hosts break down the Season 1 episode "Meadowlands". From the meaning of the mysterious title, to the way narcissism drives all of our character's behavior in this chapter, laughter and eager conversation is elicited about one of this show's most "imminently watchable" episodes. Plus: The Soprano family has a new boss! What does this mean for everyone? How will AJ deal with his revelation, and what does it mean to the world of the show? All this and MORE!

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Chris, Paul, & Jordan break down the brilliantly structured "Denial, Anger, & Acceptance", which is definitely the saddest installment of The Sopranos thus far. This episode prompts our hosts to really begin tackling the question that will hang over the rest of the series: Is Tony Soprano truly a monster?

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Chris, Paul & Jordan break down how Season 1, Episode 2 entitled "46 Long" establishes "normalcy" in the Sopranos Universe. Also, a discussion on how misdirected rage and unforeseen consequences "ricochet" in several unexpected ways! Plus much more!

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Chris, Paul, & Jordan break down "Pilot", the first episode of The Sopranos! Who is Tony Soprano? Who are the people in his life? What is this show ultimately about? Our hosts  will answer these questions, and also discuss why a show about Gangsters might just be the perfect parable for life in 20th century America.

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Chris, Paul, & Jordan are about to start an incredible podcasting journey deep into the heart of Sopranoland! In this introductory episode, they explain who they are, what they love about this groundbreaking series, and what this podcast is going to be!

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