Podcast Summary: Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend - "Snack Attack Strikes Back with Talent Coordinator Maddie Ogden"
Introduction
In the June 19, 2025 episode of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, Conan delves into the evolution of the show's guest snack baskets. Joined by his co-host Sona Movsesian and team members Adam Sachs, Matt Gourley, and Eduardo Perez, Conan explores the shift from indulgent to healthier snack options and the subsequent reactions from both the team and their audience.
The Snack Basket Critique
Conan initiates the discussion by addressing the changes in the snack baskets provided to celebrity guests. He expresses his dissatisfaction with the increasing focus on health-conscious options:
“I thought things were getting way too healthy. And this is a bit of a follow-up to that because I've seen real positive change.” [01:44]
He specifically criticizes the inclusion of unconventional and overly healthy snacks, highlighting mushroom jerky as a significant misstep:
“Mushroom jerky broke my brain.” [02:59]
Matt Gourley concurs, pointing out mushroom jerky as the "big offender."
Positive Changes and Listener Response
Acknowledging the feedback received from the initial critique, Conan shares how the segment resonated with the audience, leading to an influx of snack submissions:
“Since then, our show here in Larchmont has been bombarded with snacks. Every day I come in, there's new snacks.” [03:14]
Sona Movsesian notes the variety and improvement in the new snack offerings, mentioning favorites like popcorn and Oreos:
“I liked some of the stuff in there. I think you were a little harsh because I liked a lot of the stuff that was in there.” [03:55]
New Snack Additions
The team discusses the diversity of snacks now being included in the baskets, reflecting a balance between healthier options and classic favorites. Eduardo Perez shares his reservations about trying certain new snacks, emphasizing the team's cautious yet open approach to the evolving snack selection.
Future Snack Ideas and Protein Focus
Conan and the team brainstorm potential enhancements to the snack baskets, contemplating a shift towards more protein-rich options. The conversation takes a humorous turn as they explore outrageous ideas, including the infamous "Conan’s Meat Flute."
“Conan's Meat Flute. All proceeds go to him.” [21:22]
Despite the jest, the underlying intention is to diversify the snack offerings to better cater to varying tastes and preferences.
Humorous Directions and Team Banter
The episode is peppered with lighthearted banter and jokes, particularly surrounding the absurdity of some proposed snack ideas. The team's camaraderie shines through as they navigate the delicate balance between humor and genuine improvement of the show's snack selection.
Conclusion
Conan wraps up the discussion by acknowledging the successful rollback of the overly healthy snack options, particularly the removal of mushroom jerky, which garnered strong support from both the team and listeners:
“Good job with the snacks. I think they are. I think the snack game is way improved. And just getting rid of the mushroom jerky, which was a total, total fail.” [16:23]
Eduardo Perez humorously comments on the backlash received for including mushroom jerky, reinforcing the positive reception of the changes.
Notable Quotes
- “Mushroom jerky broke my brain.” – Conan O’Brien [02:59]
- “I think they are way improved.” – Conan O’Brien [16:23]
- “Conan's Meat Flute. All proceeds go to him.” – Adam Sachs [21:22]
Final Thoughts
This episode highlights Conan's commitment to enhancing the guest experience by refining the snack offerings. Through candid discussions and playful interactions, the team demonstrates their dedication to creating a more enjoyable and balanced snack selection, ensuring that both guests and listeners share in the fun and functionality of the show's hospitality.