The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert

Episode: Stephen Presents: Michelle Buteau
Release Date: April 24, 2025

Episode Overview

In this engaging episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert teams up with co-host Tommy Morrissey to deliver a mix of humor, insightful conversations, and an in-depth interview with the vibrant comedian and actress, Michelle Buteau. The episode seamlessly blends lighthearted banter about Easter traditions and the art of smoking meats with Michelle's journey in the entertainment industry, her personal life, and her latest projects.

Main Conversation: Stephen Colbert and Tommy Morrissey

The episode kicks off with Stephen and Tommy discussing Easter festivities, where they humorously lament the absence of traditional egg hunts for children, noting, “[02:10]Tommy Morrissey: We didn't do any of that stuff that we don't have the kids this year. Oh yeah, they're adults. Boo.”

The Art of Smoking Meat

Transitioning from Easter, the conversation shifts to the intricate process of smoking meats. Tommy shares his enthusiasm for high-tech smoking equipment, detailing the functionalities of the Green Egg Genius Fan:

• Temperature Control: “[03:54]Tommy Morrissey: Then the probe, when it hits that temperature, it goes, well, what do you want to do now?... It sends you a notice to your phone.”
• Remote Monitoring: “[05:02]Stephen Colbert: Wow. And you're controlling it on your phone.”
• Personal Anecdotes: Tommy reminisces about his mentor, Bunky, a seasoned pitmaster, emphasizing the importance of quality and consistency in smoking meats.

Practical Tips for Traditional Grilling

Stephen seeks advice on traditional grilling methods suitable for his Weber grill, prompting Tommy to offer expert tips:

• Charcoal Selection: “[07:06]Tommy Morrissey: Well, get all natural. Like chunk charcoal. Like lump charcoal.”
• Wood Choice: “[07:35]Stephen Colbert: Okay. “[07:36]Tommy Morrissey: And then get a cherry wood or something like that to smoke. Or apple.”
• Cooking Techniques: Detailed guidance on maintaining moisture and achieving the perfect sear is provided, highlighting Tommy’s expertise in the culinary arts.

Guest Interview: Michelle Buteau

Career Highlights

Stephen introduces Michelle Buteau, praising her infectious energy: “[09:48]Stephen Colbert: Today we have the very fun Michelle Buteau.” Michelle recounts her experience taping her second special at Radio City, expressing the emotional connection with her audience:

• “[15:21]Michelle Buteau: It was amazing. It was so, like, important and wild and delightful.”

Family Life

Michelle shares glimpses into her personal life, including her role as a mother to twin six-year-olds:

• “[15:54]Michelle Buteau: They are twins.”
• “[17:10]Michelle Buteau: They're here, though. They're in the green room. Is this my camera? Hi, Hazel. Hi, Otis.”

She humorously discusses the dynamics between her children:

• “[17:49]Michelle Buteau: They're sort of like an old married couple... It’s so nice to watch them just like have a built-in best friend and like relationship and fight at all times of the day.”

Project Highlights

Survival of the Thickest – Season 2

Michelle delves into her role as a creator and star of the second season of Survival of the Thickest:

• “[18:26]Michelle Buteau: It feels so good. I don't want it to end... It's about uplifting voices. Black, brown, fat, queer voices, trans voices, non-binary voices.”
• She emphasizes the show's mission: “[18:30]Michelle Buteau: It's education through love. It's hilarious, honey. Good luck. You're gonna have so much fun watching it.”

Spa Weekend in Australia

Discussing her recent filming experience in Australia, Michelle shares both the challenges and memorable moments:

• “[19:28]Michelle Buteau: We filmed seven weeks in Australia.”
• A humorous anecdote about encountering a large spider on set: “[19:55]Michelle Buteau: That spider was so big. Like everything you own in the box to the left. It was crazy.”

Personal Insights and Reflections

Michelle reflects on her journey and the importance of authenticity in her work:

• “[18:37]Michelle Buteau: If you're doing this thing that you love for the rest of your life, then it won't end. You have to be comfortable with rejection. You have to always pump yourself up. And I think specificity and being true to who you are... is how I can sleep at night.”

She underscores the significance of representation and creating inclusive spaces:

• “[18:30]Michelle Buteau: Because we all matter and we deserve to have our moment.”

Notable Quotes

• Michelle Buteau on Authenticity and Representation:
  “[18:37] If you're doing this thing that you love for the rest of your life, then it won't end... you have to always pump yourself up.”

• Tommy Morrissey on Cooking Mastery:
  “[07:06] You want the lump natural lump charcoal... it just stays hot for a long time.”

• Michelle Buteau on Family Dynamics:
  “[17:49] They're sort of like an old married couple... it's so nice to watch them just like have a built-in best friend and like relationship and fight at all times of the day.”

Key Takeaways

1. Balancing Personal and Professional Life: Michelle Buteau highlights the importance of maintaining authenticity and uplifting diverse voices in her work, while also navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood.

2. Expertise in Culinary Arts: Tommy Morrissey provides valuable insights into the art of smoking meats, emphasizing the significance of quality ingredients and precise temperature control.

3. Importance of Representation: Michelle emphasizes that creating inclusive content not only entertains but also educates and empowers marginalized communities.

4. Technical Skills in Grilling: The discussion between Stephen and Tommy offers listeners practical tips for enhancing their grilling techniques, whether using high-tech equipment or traditional methods.

5. Humorous Anecdotes: Both hosts and Michelle infuse the conversation with humor, making the episode entertaining and relatable.

Conclusion

This episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert masterfully blends comedy, personal stories, and insightful discussions. Stephen and Tommy's chemistry sets a lighthearted tone, while Michelle Buteau's candid reflections provide depth and inspiration. Whether you're a fan of comedy, grilling, or engaging conversations, this episode offers something for everyone.