The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert: Episode Featuring Cory Booker and Pierce Brosnan
Release Date: April 3, 2025
Introduction
In this extended episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert delves into pressing political issues, shares entertaining anecdotes with guest Cory Booker, and features insights from Pierce Brosnan. The episode seamlessly blends sharp political commentary with lighthearted celebrity interactions, offering listeners a comprehensive and engaging experience.
Stephen Colbert's Monologue: Tariff-Fying America [00:00 – 04:46]
Stephen Colbert opens the episode with his signature monologue, focusing on the recent imposition of significant trade tariffs by former President Donald Trump. He humorously critiques the abruptness and severity of these tariffs, likening them to the infamous Smoot-Hawley tariffs of the 1930s.
Notable Quotes:
- Colbert (02:30): “Reportedly, Trump was still weighing tariff options until late yester now. If you're not steeped in the wonky language of beltway insiders, that basically means they were spitballing ideas through the bathroom door at 3am.”
- Colbert (03:15): “Making these the most severe set of US trade tariffs since 1930. Ah, yes, the 1930 Smoot Hawley tariffs. Just one of the reasons we remember Herbert Hoover as our greatest president.”
Colbert discusses the potential economic fallout, comparing historical tariff impacts to current policies, and expresses skepticism about the administration's decision-making process.
Cory Booker's Historic Filibuster [04:46 – 13:33]
The conversation shifts to Senator Cory Booker, who joins the show to discuss his recent political maneuvers. Booker completed a marathon 25-hour speech on the Senate floor, protesting Trump's policies. Colbert praises Booker's dedication and draws parallels to historical figures like Strom Thurmond and civil rights leader John Lewis.
Notable Quotes:
- Booker (09:35): “Beautiful. Amazing. Beautiful.”
- Colbert (10:01): “Senator Booker completed a marathon 25-hour speech protesting Trump's policies. And keep in mind, Cory Booker is a Vegan. He did 25 hours fueled by chickpeas. This is historic for many reasons.”
Booker elaborates on the content of his filibuster, addressing key issues such as trade wars, mass firings, deportations, Medicaid threats, and even personal anecdotes about dating Rosario Dawson. Colbert humorously touches on Booker's stamina and dedication, highlighting the human side of political activism.
Political Insights and Reactions [13:33 – 22:57]
In this segment, Colbert and Booker discuss the broader political landscape, including Trump's trade policies and the impact on international relations. They also touch upon recent judicial elections and the influence of high-profile donors like Elon Musk.
Notable Quotes:
- Colbert (16:44): “After weeks of speculation, Trump announced a 10% tariff on all countries and additional tariffs on some like 34% tax on imports from China... Making these the most severe set of US trade tariffs since 1930.”
- Booker (27:35): “Thank you.”
Booker shares his thoughts on the importance of economic policies and their effects on everyday Americans, emphasizing the need for sustainable and equitable solutions.
Cory Booker's Career in Acting and Art [16:10 – 29:33]
Beyond politics, Cory Booker discusses his multifaceted career as an actor and artist. He shares experiences from his role in the Paramount+ series Mobland, working alongside esteemed actors like Tom Hardy and Pierce Brosnan.
Notable Quotes:
- Booker (17:14): “I play a fellow called Conrad Harrigan. And he's an Irishman. He's a businessman. He's a farmer. He's a family man, and he deals in kind of rather dangerous underbelly of life.”
- Colbert (26:57): “Here's one of your recent pieces. There you go.”
Booker recounts memorable moments from filming, including a humorous anecdote about performing a scene with limited finger mobility due to a tendon injury. He also highlights his passion for visual arts, mentioning a successful charity auction where his painting sold for $1.4 million.
Collaborations and Charity Work [27:31 – 29:33]
Booker details his collaboration with Berlin ceramicist Stephanie Herring, resulting in a unique line of porcelain vases featuring his artwork. Proceeds from these pieces benefit the King's Trust, an organization Booker has supported for three decades, which aids young men and women in finding employment and rebuilding their lives.
Notable Quotes:
- Booker (28:31): “It goes to the King's Trust, which helps and enables young men and women to find employment. It gives them a new lease on life.”
- Colbert (29:01): “Pierce, thank you so much for being here.”
This segment underscores Booker's commitment to philanthropy and his efforts to intertwine his artistic talents with meaningful causes.
Closing Remarks and Future Appearances [29:33 – End]
As the episode nears its conclusion, Colbert thanks Booker for his insights and announces that Booker will be a guest on the upcoming Monday episode to further discuss Senate activities and national issues. The episode wraps up with a brief mention of The Late Show's YouTube channel for additional content.
Notable Quotes:
- Colbert (29:04): “Mobland is out now on Paramount plus plus. Here's Rosn, everybody. Thank you for listening to the Late Show POD show with Stephen Colbert.”
Conclusion
This episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert offers a blend of sharp political commentary and engaging celebrity interviews. Stephen Colbert and Cory Booker's discussions provide listeners with both informative and entertaining perspectives on current events, political activism, and the intersection of art and philanthropy. The episode exemplifies the show's ability to balance serious discourse with lighthearted moments, making it a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Colbert (02:30): “If you're not steeped in the wonky language of beltway insiders, that basically means they were spitballing ideas through the bathroom door at 3am.”
- Booker (09:35): “Beautiful. Amazing. Beautiful.”
- Colbert (10:01): “This is historic for many reasons.”
- Booker (17:14): “I play a fellow called Conrad Harrigan.”
- Booker (28:31): “It goes to the King's Trust, which helps and enables young men and women to find employment.”
Resources and Further Listening:
- Watch the Episode: Stream The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Paramount+.
- Follow the Show: Subscribe to The Late Show Pod Show on your preferred podcast platform.
- Support the Guest's Charity: Learn more about the King's Trust at kingstrust.org.