Podcast Summary: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert featuring Ben Schwartz

Episode Details:

• Title: The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert
• Guest: Ben Schwartz
• Release Date: December 23, 2024
• Host: Stephen Colbert
• Description: Join Stephen Colbert in a lively and humorous conversation with Emmy Award-winning comedian Ben Schwartz, best known for his roles in Parks and Recreation, House of Lies, and as the voice of Sonic the Hedgehog.

1. Welcome and Introduction

The episode kicks off with Stephen Colbert warmly welcoming Ben Schwartz back to The Late Show. Stephen humorously introduces Ben’s impressive resume, highlighting his roles in popular TV shows and his reprisal of Sonic the Hedgehog in the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Notable Quote:

• Stephen Colbert [00:36]: "My next guest is an Emmy award-winning comedian, you know, from Parks and Recreation, House of Lies, and Sonic the Hedgehog. He now reprises his role as Sonic in Sonic the Hedgehog 3."

2. Discussing Sonic the Hedgehog 3

The conversation delves into Ben Schwartz’s role in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Ben shares his creative aspirations for the character, envisioning a future where Sonic ages gracefully, humorously expressing his desire for multiple versions of Sonic as he deals with the physical strains of his adventurous lifestyle.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [02:05]: "At this point, my hope is like 10, 15 Sonics. I want him to slowly age so by the time he's like at the 10th Sonic, he's really worried about his back and running is no longer an option. He's like walking, but power walking."
• Stephen Colbert [02:20]: "Exactly. Past your 40s. Sonic's got to think about his knees."

3. Light-Hearted Banter on Aging and Health

Stephen and Ben engage in a playful exchange about aging, discussing joint issues and pastimes they can no longer partake in due to physical limitations. This segment showcases their chemistry and comfort in ribbing each other about personal topics.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [02:24]: "Oh, he's got a torn meniscus."
• Stephen Colbert [02:32]: "How are your knees? We haven't even talked about it."
• Ben Schwartz [02:41]: "Yeah, yeah, yeah. Sharp pains. I get sharp pains every now and then."

4. Arm Wrestling Challenge

In a humorous twist, Ben challenges Stephen to an arm-wrestling match, integrating elements from the classic movie Over the Top starring Sylvester Stallone. The segment is filled with playful competitiveness, witty remarks, and mutual teasing, highlighting their camaraderie.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [04:02]: "Have you ever arm wrestle?"
• Stephen Colbert [04:05]: "Do you want a pad?"
• Stephen Colbert [05:22]: "One, two, three. Oh, I'm gonna win."

The arm wrestling continues with Stephen declaring victory despite Ben’s playful protests, culminating in both sharing a laugh over the friendly competition.

5. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Release and Final Remarks

Ben reiterates the excitement surrounding the release of Sonic the Hedgehog 3, encouraging listeners to catch the film in theaters. The conversation briefly touches on Stephen Colbert’s recent birthday, adding a personal touch to the episode.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben Schwartz [06:15]: "And by the way, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is coming in theaters December 20th."
• Stephen Colbert [05:58]: "Thank you very much. I'm 73."

As the episode approaches its end, Stephen invites listeners to check out more content on The Late Show YouTube channel, wrapping up the engaging and entertaining discussion.

6. Conclusion

The episode concludes with a cheerful farewell, leaving listeners with a sense of camaraderie between Stephen and Ben. The light-hearted and humorous dialogue ensures that both fans of The Late Show and Ben Schwartz can enjoy the episode, whether they're longtime followers or newcomers.

Closing Quote:

• Stephen Colbert [07:27]: "Sonic the Hedgehog 3 opens in theaters this Friday. Ben Schwartz, everybody. Thank you for listening to the Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert."

Key Takeaways:

• Ben Schwartz brings humor and insight into his role as Sonic the Hedgehog, discussing creative directions for the character in the upcoming film.
• Stephen Colbert and Ben share a dynamic rapport filled with playful teasing and genuine conversation, making the episode both entertaining and engaging.
• The episode effectively promotes the release of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 while providing listeners with an amusing glimpse into the personalities of the host and his guest.

Listeners are encouraged to watch The Late Show with Stephen Colbert weeknights or stream the podcast for more insightful and entertaining conversations.