The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert
Episode: Stephen Presents: Community Calendar
Release Date: July 2, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, hosts Stephen Colbert and Becca dive into a nostalgic yet humorous exploration of the show's Community Calendar, a segment dedicated to highlighting local events in various communities. The episode seamlessly blends behind-the-scenes anecdotes with a satirical take on small-town festivities, all while maintaining the show's signature wit and charm.

Softball Shenanigans and Team Dynamics

The episode begins with Stephen and Becca discussing their recent experience with the Late Show's softball team, the Sea Captains. Stephen humorously recounts the challenges they've faced, including unpredictable weather and tough competition against teams like the Finance Bros.

Stephen Colbert [04:23]: "Who won? You know, there's some games we win and there's some games we lose, and there's some games we lose to the point where the score is not even known to any human."

Becca shares the highs and lows of their softball season, highlighting memorable moments such as a grand slam home run that had the team feeling victorious despite the final score.

Becca [04:46]: "Grand slam home run. Last inning, bases loaded. Yeah. And so that was just like. We felt like we won."

Nostalgia: The First Community Calendar Episode

Transitioning from sports, Stephen nostalgically reflects on the origins of the Community Calendar segment. He takes the audience back to July 1, 2015, when the show first ventured into community-focused content by taking over a local public access program in Monroe, Michigan.

Stephen Colbert [07:13]: "We did the first show. Oh, my God. Oh, my God. This is too big of a story."

One of the standout moments from the early days was an impromptu interview with Marshall Mathers, better known as Eminem, showcasing the show's ability to blend local charm with unexpected celebrity interactions.

Stephen Colbert [08:49]: "He's Eminem. He's the real Slim Shady."

Present Day: John Cena Hosts Community Calendar

Shifting gears, the episode introduces John Cena as the guest host for the current Community Calendar segment. Stephen and Becca set the stage for a playful and satirical exploration of local events in West Newberry, Massachusetts, with Cena leading the charge.

John Cena [11:06]: "What about my hometown, Stephen?"

The segment is a comedic tour through a series of fictitious and exaggerated events, each presented with a humorous twist. From "Developing a Psychic Sense" classes to "Beginner Spoon Carving" workshops, the events are portrayed with a blend of absurdity and charm.

Highlighted Events:

1. Developing a Psychic Sense
   July 18th at Newburyport Central Congregational Church
   "How can you learn to be a psychic in one night? If you knew, you wouldn't need the class."

   John Cena [12:37]: "Hey, John Cena, star of the new movie Heads of State."

2. Archery Course for Beginners
   July 12th at 10 Industrial Way
   A whimsical take on archery with a sarcastic nod to unpredictable weather.

3. Fortune Telling for Teens
   July 8th at the Memorial Library
   "Sure to be a hit, especially with teenage boys who often spend time alone practicing their palmistry."

4. Beginner Spoon Carving
   July 5th at Rockler Woodworking in Salem, New Hampshire
   "And if you think you're too good for beginner spoon carving, you can go fork yourself."

5. Estate Planning Workshop
   June 25th at Willow Springs Vineyard
   A satirical blend of legal jargon and lively vineyard ambiance.

6. Yankee Homecoming Cornhole Tournament
   July 27th at Bartlett Mall
   "Don’t have your own cornhole equipment? No worries. Players may borrow a set of bags, though you are encouraged to bring your own hole."

Humorous Exchanges and Satirical Commentary

Throughout the segment, Stephen and Becca engage in witty banter, enhancing the comedic narrative. Their playful interactions underscore the lighthearted nature of the show, making the episode both entertaining and memorable.

Becca [16:22]: "It's very satisfying to be able to."

Stephen Colbert [16:31]: "Each one he gets away with. He's emboldened."

Conclusion

Stephen Presents: Community Calendar is a testament to The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert's ability to blend humor, nostalgia, and community spirit. By featuring beloved personalities like John Cena and weaving in satirical takes on local events, the episode offers a delightful listening experience that resonates with both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Whether reminiscing about the show's humble beginnings or enjoying the comedic portrayal of small-town happenings, this episode captures the essence of late-night entertainment at its finest.

Notable Quotes:

• Stephen Colbert [00:00]: "These little wonders are so tasty, it feels like getting away with something. But surprise. Each serving has 6 grams of protein and 0 grams of regret."

• John Cena [11:06]: "What about my hometown, Stephen?"

• Becca [04:46]: "Grand slam home run. Last inning, bases loaded. Yeah. And so that was just like. We felt like we won."

• Stephen Colbert [08:55]: "He's Eminem. He's the real Slim Shady."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, humorous exchanges, and the overall flow of the episode, providing a vivid snapshot for those who haven't had the chance to listen.