Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend: Episode Summary – "Lats and Longs"

Release Date: May 29, 2025

In the "Lats and Longs" episode of Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend, host Conan O’Brien engages in a heartfelt and humorous conversation with Marta Dewolfe, a seasoned sailor who has been circumnavigating the globe aboard her 43-foot catamaran with her husband. This episode delves deep into Marta's adventurous lifestyle, the dynamics of her relationship while living in close quarters, and the unforeseen challenges they've encountered on their maritime journey.

1. Welcoming Marta Dewolfe

Timestamp: [01:50]

Conan opens the episode by warmly welcoming Marta Dewolfe, expressing excitement about her joining the podcast:

Conan O'Brien [01:50]: "Hey, Marta. Welcome to Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend."

Marta responds with enthusiasm, highlighting her happiness to connect with Conan and the podcast community.

2. Marta’s Sailing Journey

Timestamp: [02:00] – [04:04]

Conan inquires about Marta's current location and sailing status, leading to a detailed account of her life at sea:

Marta Dewolfe [02:16]: "We're starting our eighth year."

She shares that, despite initial plans for a three-year voyage, unforeseen circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic extended their journey to over eight years, covering approximately 22,000 miles across seven countries. Marta emphasizes the efficiency of their catamaran, enabling them to handle the seas without additional crew.

3. Navigating the High Seas and Facing Storms

Timestamp: [04:04] – [06:05]

The conversation shifts to the perils of sailing, with Marta recounting their most harrowing experience during a medicane—a Mediterranean hurricane:

Marta Dewolfe [05:19]: "I could see the eye forming above us. We were six hours away from shore and there were four water spouts around us."

Conan expresses his fears inspired by movies like Dead Calm, humorously confessing his reluctance to approach boats:

Conan O'Brien [04:00]: "I saw the movie Dead Calm. It's Nicole Kidman's first movie, and Billy Zane shows up and he's crazy... I won't go on boats anymore."

Despite the dangers, Marta reassures listeners that 98% of their experiences involve encountering dolphins and mermaids, adding a whimsical touch to their adventures.

4. Relationship Dynamics on the Boat

Timestamp: [06:05] – [07:33]

Conan explores the dynamics of maintaining a relationship in the confined space of a boat. Marta explains that living together on the high seas has strengthened their communication skills:

Marta Dewolfe [07:03]: "It's helped our communication a lot because at some point you have to let go of the small stuff because it becomes dangerous."

She shares that becoming empty nesters provided the impetus to embark on their sailing journey, pushing them out of their comfort zones.

5. Overcoming Conflicts and Finding Solace

Timestamp: [07:33] – [09:12]

The discussion delves into moments of tension, particularly during the COVID-19 lockdown in Turkey when Marta found solace in listening to Conan's podcast:

Marta Dewolfe [08:20]: "I was on the kayak... listening to your podcast when I was not getting along with my husband."

Marta credits the podcast for bringing joy during dark times, even extending its reach to fellow travelers in Greece who discovered it through her recommendation.

6. Life Aboard and Boat Maintenance

Timestamp: [10:20] – [12:25]

Conan expresses admiration for Marta and her husband's ability to manage all aspects of their boat maintenance independently:

Conan O'Brien [11:57]: "You do it all yourselves. Wow. So you've really challenged yourself."

Marta details their routine of lifting the catamaran out of the water every other year for engine servicing and painting, highlighting their self-sufficiency.

7. Cultural Encounters and Personal Connections

Timestamp: [12:25] – [17:16]

The conversation takes a cultural turn as Marta discusses her visits to an Armenian village in Turkey, connecting with Sona Movsesian's heritage:

Marta Dewolfe [22:44]: "I went to the only Armenian village in Turkey and there's 103 residents. I thought of you."

This segment underscores the personal connections and cultural exchanges that enrich Marta's travels.

8. Adventures Under the Sea and Treasure Hunting

Timestamp: [18:52] – [20:48]

Marta shares her underwater discoveries, including amphoras and mosaics, drawing playful parallels to the adventurous spirit of The Goonies:

Marta Dewolfe [19:07]: "I found some. They're called ampura. Amphoras."

Conan humorously imagines the reality of treasure hunting versus cinematic portrayals, adding levity to the discussion.

9. Sailing Skills and Practical Advice

Timestamp: [20:16] – [21:57]

Marta offers Conan practical sailing advice, assigning him tasks like reefing the mainsail and furling the jib, testing his nautical knowledge:

Marta Dewolfe [21:14]: "Reef the main and furl the jib."

She also quizzes him on nautical terminology, such as distinguishing between port and starboard, reinforcing the episode's educational undertones.

10. Closing Thoughts and Well Wishes

Timestamp: [25:07] – [26:25]

As the episode nears its end, Marta expresses her appreciation for the conversation and shares final thoughts on maintaining connections while sailing:

Marta Dewolfe [25:58]: "It was an honor."

Conan reciprocates the sentiment, highlighting the meaningful exchanges that occur through the podcast.

Notable Quotes

• Marta Dewolfe [05:19]: "I could see the eye forming above us. We were six hours away from shore and there were four water spouts around us."

• Conan O'Brien [22:38]: "But Sona's father was born in a village, Right? A long time ago."

• Marta Dewolfe [19:32]: "I've seen mosaics underneath."

• Conan O'Brien [21:46]: "All right, Marta, it was really nice talking to you. Stay safe."

Insights and Reflections

This episode offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the life of full-time sailors, highlighting the balance between adventure and the pragmatic aspects of living aboard a boat. Marta's journey underscores the importance of strong communication and mutual support in sustaining long-term relationships under challenging conditions. Additionally, the episode touches on cultural heritage, environmental encounters, and the unexpected ways in which media, like Conan's podcast, can provide comfort and connection in isolated circumstances.

Conan's humorous approach complements Marta's stories, making complex sailing terminology and experiences accessible and entertaining. The episode serves as both an inspiring narrative of exploration and a testament to the enduring human spirit in the pursuit of friendship and personal growth.