Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend | Episode: “Don’t Sit Under The Walnut Tree”

In this heartfelt and humorous episode of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, Conan sits down with Muntaser, a remarkable individual whose journey from Iraq to Austria embodies resilience and determination. The conversation delves deep into Muntaser’s life, his aspirations, and the challenges he faces in building meaningful relationships abroad. Below is a detailed summary capturing the key points, discussions, notable quotes, and the insightful camaraderie shared between Conan, Muntaser, and the team.

1. Welcoming Muntaser: A Unique Guest

The episode begins with Conan introducing Muntaser, who dons traditional Austrian lederhosen, sparking curiosity and laughter.

Conan O’Brien [02:00]: “I think that's well known.”

Muntaser explains his choice of attire as part of his quest to obtain Austrian citizenship, setting a lighthearted yet earnest tone for the conversation.

2. An Incredible Journey: From Iraq to Austria

Muntaser recounts his nine-year journey fleeing Iraq and establishing a new life in Austria. His story is one of perseverance, highlighting the lengths he went to find safety and stability.

Muntaser [02:27]: “I am applying or trying to get the Austrian citizenship so I have been wearing this for a month and running back and forth in front of the mayor's office hasn’t helped yet but hopefully we’ll have some progress.”

Conan [03:44]: “You essentially walked all the way from Iraq to Austria. That’s an incredible story.”

Muntaser details the arduous journey, including walking significant portions of the way and utilizing public transportation when necessary. His determination is evident as he shares his experiences navigating through Turkey to reach Austria.

3. Building a Life in Linz

Settling in Linz, Austria, Muntaser has built a stable life over the past nine years. He emphasizes his roles as an educator and a swimming coach, contributing positively to his community.

Muntaser [04:16]: “I teach swimming as well. So I teach physical education and English in a middle school.”

Conan commends Muntaser’s accomplishments, recognizing the substantial efforts required to integrate and succeed in a new country.

4. Love and Relationships: The Isabella Story

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Muntaser’s relationship with his Austrian girlfriend, Isabella. Conan and Muntaser humorously explore the dynamics of their relationship and the challenges Muntaser faces in winning her over.

Muntaser [05:53]: “She is Austrian, from the Alps. From the heart of the Alps. We live in Upper Austria between the mountains.”

Conan playfully suggests visiting Austria to help Muntaser appear cooler to Isabella, leading to a series of comedic exchanges about lederhosen and walnut-picking as unconventional methods to impress her.

Conan [07:20]: “I know people think I'm crazy and deluded and that's partially true, but I'm not that deluded.”

The dialogue highlights the cultural and personal efforts Muntaser is making to strengthen his relationship, underscored by Conan’s supportive yet jocular demeanor.

5. Decorating Challenges: Making the Apartment Shine

The conversation shifts to Muntaser’s recent move to a new apartment and his struggles with decorating it in a way that appeals to Isabella. Conan and Sona Movsesian offer playful suggestions, emphasizing the importance of personal touch and effort in shared spaces.

Muntaser [20:37]: “I haven't decorated the apartment yet, but she lives in a very nice house with lakes and mountains, and here in the city, we don't have lakes or mountains.”

Sona Movsesian [21:50]: “I think it would be more. Can I put my own stuff in there and make it cool myself?”

Conan humorously proposes decorating the apartment with Civil War memorabilia, blending his signature wit with genuine support for Muntaser’s aspirations.

6. Emotional Support and Appreciation

As the episode progresses, Conan expresses deep admiration for Muntaser’s journey and character, fostering a sense of genuine friendship and support.

Conan [23:42]: “I think you're out of your mind.”

Conan [23:46]: “I'm very impressed by you. I think your personal story is incredible.”

Muntaser shares how Conan’s content has been a source of joy and comfort during challenging times, highlighting the impactful role of Conan’s work beyond entertainment.

Muntaser [25:11]: “There were some difficult times where your videos helped me a lot.”

Conan acknowledges the significance of this connection, reinforcing the podcast’s mission to forge real and lasting friendships.

7. Concluding Bonds: Looking Forward

In the closing moments, the bond between Conan and Muntaser is palpable. Conan expresses a desire to visit Austria and meet Muntaser in person, symbolizing the beginning of a genuine friendship.

Conan [24:40]: “I would love to go to Austria and I would love to meet you and personally shake your hand because I think I'm lucky to have a fan like you.”

Muntaser reciprocates the gratitude, emphasizing the meaningfulness of their interaction.

Muntaser [25:56]: “This means the world to me. Coming from you. This is like. Yeah, this is crazy.”

The episode wraps up with heartfelt goodbyes, leaving listeners with a sense of warmth and connection.

8. Reflective Insights and Themes

Throughout the episode, several prominent themes emerge:

• Resilience and Adaptation: Muntaser’s journey underscores the human spirit’s ability to adapt and thrive despite immense challenges.

• Cultural Integration: Navigating life in a new country, Muntaser exemplifies the complexities and rewards of cultural integration.

• The Quest for Friendship: Aligning with the podcast’s premise, Muntaser’s story highlights the universal desire for meaningful connections and friendships.

• Support and Empathy: Conan’s genuine support illustrates the importance of empathy and understanding in building lasting relationships.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Muntaser on Citizenship Efforts [02:27]:

  “I have been wearing this for a month and running back and forth in front of the mayor's office hasn’t helped yet but hopefully we’ll have some progress.”

• Conan on Muntaser’s Journey [03:44]:

  “You essentially walked all the way from Iraq to Austria. That’s an incredible story.”

• Muntaser on His Role in Austria [04:16]:

  “I teach physical education and English in a middle school.”

• Conan’s Supportive Praise [04:45]:

  “I have to say, Muntaser, you're an impressive person. I think you deserve a lot of credit.”

• Muntaser on His Girlfriend Isabella [05:53]:

  “She is Austrian, from the Alps. From the heart of the Alps.”

• Conan's Playful Advice on Impressing Isabella [07:20]:

  “I know people think I'm crazy and deluded and that's partially true, but I'm not that deluded.”

• Conan’s Admiration [23:42]:

  “I think you're out of your mind.”

• Muntaser on Conan’s Impact [25:11]:

  “There were some difficult times where your videos helped me a lot.”

Conclusion

“Don’t Sit Under The Walnut Tree” is a poignant episode that balances humor with heartfelt storytelling. Muntaser’s inspiring journey and his sincere interactions with Conan offer listeners a profound look into the struggles and triumphs of building a life in a new country. Conan’s genuine empathy and the camaraderie showcased in the episode embody the essence of the podcast—seeking meaningful friendships through authentic conversations.

For those who haven’t listened, this episode serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides and fostering genuine human connections. It highlights the extraordinary lengths individuals go to for safety, love, and acceptance, all while maintaining a sense of humor and resilience.