Family Trips with the Meyers Brothers: FAMILY TRIPS: Live From Amsterdam!

Released on July 17, 2025

Introduction and Setting

In this vibrant live episode of Family Trips with the Meyers Brothers, hosts Seth Meyers and Josh Meyers welcome listeners to Amsterdam, recorded at their long-time theater home, Boom Chicago. The live studio audience adds an energetic dynamic, contrasting the usual remote recordings. The brothers express their excitement about the special live format and introduce a lineup of familiar guests, including friends and family members.

Josh Meyers [00:17]: "Recorded in front of a live studio audience in Amsterdam and our old theater of residence, Boom Chicago, and multiple guests. So you're going to see a real parade of friendlies in this episode."

Family Anecdotes and Early Guests

The Meyers brothers start by reminiscing about their parents, Larry and Hillary Myers, affectionately referred to as the Poncas. They share humorous anecdotes about their parents' travels and interactions in Amsterdam, highlighting the strong family bonds that underpin their trips.

Hillary Myers [10:17]: "Well, every time that you two were here and we were all alone back home, we came over for Thanksgivings. And then I used to come spring breaks from my school job, I would bring my family over here."

Brendan Hunt's Tron Ride Adventure

Guest Brendan Hunt narrates an adventurous tale about attempting to sneak onto the highly sought-after Tron ride at Disney World in Florida. Despite numerous obstacles, including sold-out tickets and high prices, Brendan, aided by his son Finn, devises a clever plan to bypass security. Their escapade not only grants them access to the ride but also earns Brendan an unexpected feature in a local newspaper.

Brendan Hunt [35:56]: "So, we're fucking gonna ride this thing. We skipped this whole line. We didn't go."

Josh Meyers [35:57]: "He described it as... a perfect crime after all."

Peter Gross's Art Smuggling Story

Andrew Moskos and Peter Gross join the conversation, bringing their unique stories to the table. Peter Gross shares a captivating account from his childhood in Romania, where his father orchestrated the smuggling of valuable paintings during the height of the Cold War. This daring operation not only ensured the preservation of family heritage but also immersed young Peter in the complexities of geopolitical tensions.

Peter Gross [57:08]: "So my dad is very mild-mannered and not, you know, he's calm in some instances, but he gets very obsessive. So he knows this is happening where he's going to sort of smuggle these paintings out."

Peter Gross [60:17]: "In addition to anything you may have seen me in or know my writing credits, I'm also an international art smuggler."

Jill Benjamin's Spider Pranks and Surprise Encounters

Comedienne Jill Benjamin recounts the playful and enduring prank war with her mother involving a plastic tarantula. From placing it on pillows to more elaborate setups in restaurants, the pranks have become a cherished tradition. Jill also shares an amusing story about an unexpected surprise hookup reunion at a Boom Chicago show, highlighting the unpredictable nature of live performances.

Jill Benjamin [41:11]: "So then my mom does it back to me, and now she uses my kids to get it to me. And so she'll, like, sneak it in my suitcase."

Jill Benjamin [47:18]: "Don't surprise people if it was a one-night hookup, in fact, in Edinburgh."

Ike Barinholtz's Sunburn and Beach Mishaps

Ike Barinholtz brings a lighthearted yet relatable story about his misadventures in Amsterdam, including a severe sunburn from a beach trip. His tale underscores the humorous side of family trips gone awry, complete with interactions with curious strangers and the challenges of performing under unexpected circumstances.

Ike Barinholtz [73:09]: "So we sit there, and they're topless, and I'm just, like, trying to be cool, you know, like, staring at whatever..."

Ike Barinholtz [75:36]: "And so I go backstage at one point, and I'm just like. I'm in such pain. And I sit in a Chair."

Audience Q&A Session

The episode concludes with an engaging Q&A session, where Seth and Josh pose fun, family-oriented questions to the live audience. Topics range from ideal vacation types to favorite modes of transportation, allowing audience members to share their personal preferences and experiences.

Seth Meyers [81:01]: "What is your favorite means of transportation?"

Audience Member [81:14]: "Train."

Conclusion

The Meyers brothers wrap up the episode with heartfelt thanks to their guests and audience, celebrating the shared memories and laughter that define their family trips. The live format in Amsterdam provided a unique and dynamic backdrop for an evening filled with stories, jokes, and familial warmth.

Josh Meyers [83:59]: "Thank you, guys. Sufi. Have a great one, everybody."

This episode of Family Trips with the Meyers Brothers offers a delightful blend of humor, heartfelt family stories, and entertaining guest anecdotes, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Amsterdam. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the podcast, this live recording captures the essence of what makes family trips unforgettable.