The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert

Episode: Stephen Presents: Lorde (Extended)
Release Date: July 11, 2025

Introduction

In this extended episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, hosts Stephen Colbert and Becca delve into a relaxed summer conversation before transitioning to an in-depth interview with the acclaimed New Zealand pop star, Lorde. The episode offers listeners an engaging mix of light-hearted banter and insightful discussions about Lorde's artistry, personal growth, and experiences with fame.

Summer Break and Personal Updates

Stephen Colbert and Becca kick off the episode by sharing their summer plans and adventures, setting a casual and friendly tone for the conversation.

• Stephen (04:28): "Evie and I are with a couple other couples and some friends on a catamaran. Sailing, sailing. You know, my brother-in-law is a very big sailor..."

• Becca (04:35): "Oh, beautiful."

The hosts discuss their excitement about sailing, enjoying leisure time, and the anticipation of their upcoming summer break.

Introducing Lorde

Transitioning from personal anecdotes, the hosts introduce Lorde as a special guest, highlighting their previous interactions and teasing the upcoming exclusive interview.

• Becca (06:43): "But tonight on the podcast, we have someone from the other side of the world who's coming on the show."

• Stephen (09:10): "My next guest tonight is a two-time Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter with chart-topping hits like 'Royals,' 'Green Light,' and 'Solar Power.' Please welcome back to The Late Show, Lorde."

In-Depth Interview with Lorde

The core of the episode features a comprehensive interview with Lorde, covering various aspects of her career, personal growth, and creative process.

New Album: Virginia

Lorde discusses her highly anticipated fourth studio album, Virginia, exploring the introspective journey that led to its creation.

• Stephen (09:16): "What's up is you. Because your highly anticipated fourth studio album, Virginia, comes out on Friday."

• Lorde (10:48): "I think of the process of making an album as going out on a quest. It's a real journey... the album is a byproduct of that process."

She emphasizes the significance of self-discovery and how the album reflects her inner thoughts and experiences.

• Stephen (10:23): "What did you discover?"

• Lorde (10:48): "I discovered that every answer to anything in your life is contained within your own body. It's already in there. It's like in your cells."

Navigating Fame

Reflecting on her rise to fame at 16, Lorde shares insights into how her relationship with fame has evolved over the years.

• Stephen (11:13): "You shot the superstardom at 16. How has your relationship with fame changed over the last 12 years?"

• Lorde (11:23): "I wield it a bit more loosely now. When I was a teenager, I tried to control it to a crazy degree, but now I'm kind of like..."

She discusses the challenges of maintaining authenticity and mental well-being amidst global recognition.

Fan Interactions and Personal Experiences

Lorde recounts memorable interactions with fans, including surprising appearances and impromptu performances.

• Stephen (12:25): "You have a Lorde-themed nightclub in Sydney. What was that like for them and for you?"

• Lorde (12:54): "I was quite shy... but when they started dancing, it was super. It was insane."

Another highlight includes her spontaneous mini-concert in an Auckland bathroom, showcasing her comfort in unique performance settings.

• Stephen (13:20): "What was that like?"

• Lorde (13:37): "I was in a toilet cubicle, and they all came in... I popped out and performed."

Encounters with Authorities

Lorde shares a tense experience with the NYPD during a music video shoot, providing a glimpse into the logistics and pressures of her work.

• Stephen (14:07): "You had a brush with New York's Finest when shooting your music video. What was that?"

• Lorde (14:24): "The Anti-Terrorism Unit was very intense... I had to leave and come back later to complete the shoot."

Ultrasound World Tour

Discussing her upcoming Ultrasound World Tour, Lorde expresses enthusiasm despite the demanding nature of touring.

• Stephen (16:31): "Do you love being on tour? Do you enjoy the process?"

• Lorde (16:49): "I find the tour fabulous... it's like being a little show dog. Fabulous in its own way."

She likens the routine of touring to being pampered and emphasizes the importance of a strong support team.

Overcoming Stage Fright with MDMA Therapy

One of the most personal topics covered is Lorde's battle with stage fright and her unconventional method of overcoming it through MDMA-assisted therapy.

• Stephen (17:32): "When you were younger, you had real stage fright. How did you get over that?"

• Lorde (17:45): "It's MDMA therapy. It truly changed the game on stage fright."

She explains how this therapy allowed her to bypass deep-seated fears and approach performances with newfound confidence.

• Stephen (18:04): "Do you then talk it out or just have an experience?"

• Lorde (18:55): "I'm a very quiet journeyer. You lay on a bed, you've got an eye mask... There's some talking, but it's mostly the experience."

Lorde underscores the transformative impact of this therapy on her public persona and mental health.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with hosts Stephen and Becca expressing gratitude to Lorde for her candid insights and sharing their excitement for her album release and upcoming tour.

• Stephen (19:42): "Well, it was lovely to see you. Thank you so much for being here, Lord."

• Lorde (19:53): "Thank you so much."

Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of Lorde's artistic journey, personal growth, and the experiences that shape her music and public presence.

Key Quotes

• Lorde on Album Creation: "Making this album is a period of so much discovery for me." (10:48)

• On Fame: "I'd wield fame a bit more loosely now... I was trying to control it to a crazy degree as a teenager." (11:33)

• Overcoming Stage Fright: "MDMA therapy... I woke up the next day and I was like, oh, it's over." (17:54)

This episode offers an intimate peek into Lorde's life beyond the stage, highlighting her thoughtful approach to music, fame, and personal well-being. Stephen Colbert and Becca's engaging conversation styles ensure that listeners are both entertained and informed, making this episode a must-listen for fans of late-night podcasts and contemporary music.