Summary of "The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert" Featuring Ryan Reynolds
Episode: Ryan Reynolds | Air Force Dumb
Release Date: May 13, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert delivers his characteristic blend of sharp political satire and humor before welcoming his special guest, Ryan Reynolds. The episode skillfully navigates through current political events, corporate antics, and personal insights into Reynolds' entrepreneurial ventures, particularly his involvement with the Wrexham football club.

Stephen Colbert’s Monologue

Trump’s Air Force One Gift from Qatar

Stephen Colbert opens with a scathing critique of former President Donald Trump's acceptance of a luxury Boeing 747 jet from Qatar, intended for use as a new Air Force One. Colbert mocks the gesture, highlighting the dubious nature of the gift and its potential implications.

• Quote: “And of course, with a gift, it's not the money, it's the thought that counts. That thought, let's bribe the President.”
  [02:06]

Colbert emphasizes the controversy surrounding the transfer, questioning the transparency and motives behind accepting such a lavish gift from a nation with complex geopolitical ties.

Trump’s Executive Order on Drug Prices

Shifting focus, Colbert critiques Trump’s executive order aimed at reducing drug prices in America. He humorously dissects the administration's approach, juxtaposing it with past attempts and the resistance from powerful pharmaceutical lobbies.

• Quote: “You mess with Big Pharma, you lose. Try it again and they send the Lunesta Butterfly to suck out your spinal fluid while you sleep.”
  [03:47]

Colbert also parodies Trump's storytelling abilities, particularly his attempts to make policy relatable through personal anecdotes, albeit in a satirical manner.

US-China Tariff Negotiations

Colbert continues his monologue by addressing the recent negotiations between the US and China, where tariffs have been adjusted after prolonged disputes. He ridicules the half-measures and unmet promises, highlighting the superficial victories in the trade talks.

• Quote: “It's not no tariffs, but US tariffs on China will go from 145% to 30% and Chinese tariffs on the US will go from 125% to 10%. Unfortunately, there will still be a 120% tariff.”
  [09:00]

Colbert underscores the inadequacy of these changes, pointing out that significant tariffs remain, thereby questioning the effectiveness of the negotiations.

Interview with Ryan Reynolds

Introduction and Greetings

After the monologue, Stephen transitions smoothly to the interview segment, introducing Ryan Reynolds as a beloved actor and entrepreneur. Reynolds is recognized for his role in the Emmy-winning docu-series Welcome to Wrexham, which chronicles his and Rob McElhenney’s efforts in revitalizing a struggling Welsh soccer team.

Wrexham’s Ascension in the Football League

The conversation delves into the remarkable progress of Wrexham AFC, highlighting their unprecedented three consecutive promotions into higher leagues. Reynolds attributes this success to the talented players, the strategic coaching of Phil Parkinson, and, critically, the strong team culture.

• Quote: “It's more than just the talent. It is that the locker room that these guys are in is the greatest locker room in sports.”
  [16:27]

Reynolds elaborates on the concept of "collective effervescence," a term borrowed from French sociology, describing the profound sense of community and shared joy experienced by fans and players alike.

• Quote: “We live in a digital hate tank. And I really believe that places like concerts and sports and movies... bring us together even tighter.”
  [17:09]

Community Impact and Authentic Engagement

Reynolds emphasizes the importance of integrating with the local community rather than imposing external narratives. This authentic engagement has fostered a deep connection between the team and the town, leading to a supportive and unified fanbase.

• Quote: “We really wanted to be a part of their story, not pull them into our story.”
  [19:01]

Season Four of Welcome to Wrexham

Looking ahead, Reynolds shares insights into the upcoming fourth season of Welcome to Wrexham. He expresses optimism about the team's future, including aspirations to reach the Premier League—a goal previously met with skepticism.

• Quote: “I went from fake it till you make it to no, we're making it like we're gonna make this thing and it is going to work.”
  [21:59]

Reynolds also touches upon his creative endeavors outside of football, notably his documentary project focused on the late John Candy, reflecting his dedication to storytelling and honoring influential figures.

• Quote: “It's a beautiful man who was a beautiful storyteller who passed at 43, way too young.”
  [25:34]

Humorous Anecdotes and Linguistic Challenges

The interview is peppered with light-hearted moments, including Reynolds’ humorous take on learning Welsh and his playful interactions with Colbert about his character Deadpool’s influence on the team’s culture.

• Quote: “I fight a whole bunch of other Deadpools and I made one of them, Welsh Pool, which I found out is an actual town.”
  [23:03]

Reynolds admits the challenges of learning Welsh, adding a relatable touch to the conversation.

• Quote: “It is really difficult. There's that one town. I mean, you've probably heard about it.”
  [25:07]

Conclusion and Promotions

The episode concludes with Stephen Colbert promoting the latest season of Welcome to Wrexham, encouraging listeners to tune in for more inspiring stories of community and sportsmanship. Additionally, Colbert directs listeners to the Late Show YouTube channel for exclusive clips and content.

Key Takeaways

• Political Satire: Colbert provides a critical and humorous examination of recent political events, particularly focusing on Donald Trump's actions and policies.

• Wrexham’s Success Story: Ryan Reynolds offers an in-depth look into the transformative journey of Wrexham AFC, highlighting the importance of culture, community, and authentic engagement in achieving success.

• Personal Insights: Reynolds shares personal anecdotes and discusses his passion projects, including his documentary on John Candy, showcasing his multifaceted career beyond acting.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Stephen Colbert on Trump's Gift:
   “That thought, let's bribe the President.”
   [02:06]

2. Colbert on Drug Price Policy:
   “You mess with Big Pharma, you lose. Try it again and they send the Lunesta Butterfly to suck out your spinal fluid while you sleep.”
   [03:47]

3. Ryan Reynolds on Team Culture:
   “It's more than just the talent. It is that the locker room that these guys are in is the greatest locker room in sports.”
   [16:27]

4. Reynolds on Collective Effervescence:
   “We live in a digital hate tank. And I really believe that places like concerts and sports and movies... bring us together even tighter.”
   [17:09]

5. Reynolds on Making It Work:
   “I went from fake it till you make it to no, we're making it like we're gonna make this thing and it is going to work.”
   [21:59]

6. Reynolds on John Candy Documentary:
   “It's a beautiful man who was a beautiful storyteller who passed at 43, way too young.”
   [25:34]

This episode offers a compelling mix of political humor and heartfelt discussion, providing listeners with both entertainment and meaningful insights into the intersection of sports, community, and personal passion.