Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend: "Canada O'Brien" Episode Summary

In the February 6, 2025 episode of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, host Conan O’Brien engages in a lively and humorous conversation with Devon, a dedicated Canadian bobsledder from Calgary, Alberta. The episode delves into Devon’s athletic pursuits, the intricacies of bobsledding, the challenges of securing sponsorships in niche sports, and personal anecdotes that highlight the camaraderie and aspirations within the sport.

Introduction and Setting the Scene

The episode kicks off with Conan and co-host Matt Gourley establishing a friendly rapport with Devon. From the outset, the playful banter sets a light-hearted tone:

Matt Gourley [00:24]: "I think it's crazy that your shirt matches your background exactly because you look like a floating head right now."
Devon [00:34]: "Thank you."

This initial exchange not only breaks the ice but also showcases the comfortable and humorous dynamic among the participants.

Devon’s Background and Bobsledding Career

Devon provides insight into his roots and athletic career, sharing his journey from Edmonton to Calgary and his involvement with the Canadian national bobsled team.

Devon [03:02]: "I did compete in bobsleigh last year for our Canadian national team."

Matt expresses genuine surprise and admiration for Devon’s commitment:

Matt Gourley [03:08]: "So you are a... a serious bobsledder?"

Devon humbly describes his experience:

Devon [03:49]: "I was really, I would say lucky. I was also just very fortunate to be in good positions."

This section highlights Devon’s dedication and the often underappreciated efforts of athletes in less mainstream sports.

The Thrills and Dangers of Bobsledding

A significant portion of the conversation delves into the mechanics and risks associated with bobsledding. Devon explains the physical demands and the adrenaline-pumping speeds involved.

Devon [04:42]: "150Km an hour."

Matt, unfamiliar with the metric system, humorously attempts to comprehend the speed:

Matt Gourley [04:44]: "Wait, 93 miles an hour?"

Devon discusses the potential dangers during crashes:

Devon [05:15]: "You hang on for dear life because there's seat belts."
Devon [06:18]: "There's a helmet and then we have what is called a burn vest."

Devon recounts a specific crash incident, emphasizing the split-second decisions and teamwork required to stay safe:

Devon [07:39]: "It's like trying to kick you out. It's like almost like a bull just trying to kick you off. So you have to like grab on to the frame and pull yourself back in and just try and stay in."

Matt’s comedic interjections add levity to the intense subject matter:

Matt Gourley [05:00]: "My cat can run 150 kilometers an hour."

Their exchange underscores the high-stakes nature of the sport while maintaining an entertaining dialogue.

Sponsorship and Funding Challenges

The conversation shifts towards the financial aspects of bobsledding, highlighting the scarcity of sponsorships and funding for Olympic sports outside the mainstream.

Devon [11:06]: "A lot of Olympic sports are pretty underfunded. Bobsleigh is certainly no different."

Matt humorously proposes unconventional sponsorship ideas:

Matt Gourley [18:58]: "If I could sponsor you guys, you're going to start getting eyeballs because my face is on that bobsled."

Devon acknowledges the struggle for visibility and support:

Devon [17:53]: "The program has their own... we're happy about it. But usually, especially the last few years, it's been self-funded."

The duo brainstorms creative sponsorship strategies, blending comedy with genuine concern for the sport’s financial viability.

Personal Connections and Mutual Admiration

Devon shares his long-standing admiration for Conan, revealing a heartfelt side amidst the humorous exchanges.

Devon [20:16]: "This is very like, it's almost not about out of, out of body experience for me. So, well, this is like quite literally a dream come true."

Matt reciprocates the sentiment, emphasizing his appreciation for Canadian support:

Matt Gourley [20:06]: "When I started way back in the day, my best fans were Canadians."

This segment deepens the narrative, illustrating the personal bonds and mutual respect that transcend national boundaries.

Closing Remarks and Future Aspirations

As the episode winds down, Devon extends an invitation to listeners interested in experiencing bobsledding firsthand, highlighting the accessibility of the sport through tours in Whistler or Lake Placid.

Devon [21:23]: "You can always take a ride in a bobsled. You can head to Whistler or Lake Placid. They have tours for you."

Matt humorously declines the offer, preferring to stay out of the high-speed thrills:

Matt Gourley [21:28]: "No, no, I'm going with you or with no one. So it's you or no one."

The episode concludes on a warm note, with mutual well-wishes and expressions of hope for future collaborations:

Conan O’Brien [21:39]: "Hey, Devon, Very nice to meet you, and I hope our paths cross down the road."

Notable Quotes and Highlights

Matt Gourley [02:33]: "You're a very nice guy, Devon. You'll get there. By the time you're in your 90s, you'll be okay."
Devon [14:36]: "You call it bob slaying, bobsled, bobsleigh."
Matt Gourley [19:33]: "Canada O'Brien needs a friend is what the slant will be called."

These quotes encapsulate the episode's blend of humor, camaraderie, and genuine discussion about the challenges and thrills of bobsledding.

Conclusion

This episode of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend effectively balances humor with informative dialogue, offering listeners an engaging glimpse into the world of bobsledding through Devon’s experiences. The friendly banter between Conan, Matt, and Devon not only entertains but also sheds light on the dedication and passion required to excel in niche Olympic sports. For fans seeking both laughs and insight, "Canada O'Brien" is a compelling listen that underscores the importance of friendship and support in pursuing one’s dreams.