The Severance Podcast with Ben Stiller & Adam Scott Episode: Points of Vibration (with Conan O'Brien and Alan Stair) Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction: Restarting the Podcast

At the outset of the episode, Ben Stiller and Adam Scott announce the revival of "The Severance Podcast" following the season two finale of the workplace thriller Severance. They express excitement about delving deeper into discussions surrounding the show and addressing ongoing questions from their listener hotline.

Ben Stiller [00:40]: "And in each episode, we'll be talking about the movies and TV shows that have influenced us while making the show."

Welcoming Conan O'Brien: A Comic Giant Joins

The hosts introduce their special guest, the legendary late-night host Conan O'Brien, highlighting his stature both physically and within the entertainment industry. They humorously reference Conan's new travel show, setting a light-hearted tone for the conversation.

Adam Scott [01:21]: "Physical mass."

Ben Stiller [02:01]: "What's it like being tall?"

Light-Hearted Banter: Knicks, Recognition, and Personal Stories

Ben and Adam engage Conan in playful banter about Adam's recent misfortunes at New York Knicks games, suggesting a humorous "curse." They share anecdotes from their experiences, including a memorable screening of Severance at the Dolby Theater, complete with an impromptu marching band performance.

Ben Stiller [03:30]: "I felt like everybody who was watching it had sort of watched it already."

Conan O'Brien [06:51]: "I was sad for the city of New York because I love New York City so much."

Conan's Insights on Fame and Public Life

Conan delves into the challenges of being a public figure, discussing the inability to remain unnoticed due to his distinctive appearance. He shares humorous experiences of being recognized and his strategies for handling constant attention.

Conan O'Brien [12:47]: "There are downsides. You cannot hide."

Conan O'Brien [14:57]: "I've been trying to communicate we are good."

Appreciation and Mutual Admiration

Ben and Adam express their admiration for Conan's comedic talents and recount their long-standing relationship, including past collaborations and memorable moments. Conan reciprocates the appreciation, highlighting the ease and spontaneity of their current podcast format compared to his previous long-term projects.

Ben Stiller [13:05]: "You're so in tune with your craft."

Conan O'Brien [23:01]: "We can talk for literally 50 minutes and go down weird roads."

Discussion on Severance: Themes and Aesthetic Appeal

Conan shares his fascination with Severance, emphasizing the show's meticulous attention to detail, set design, and ability to blend serious themes with unexpected comedic moments. He appreciates how the show's aesthetic and craftsmanship draw him in, fostering a deeper connection with both the narrative and his family.

Conan O'Brien [25:29]: "I love any work. I mean, sometimes I come home and I watch very depressing things."

Conan O'Brien [26:49]: "I'm at the mercy of the show, which I really like."

Hotline Questions: Audience Engagement and Humor

The podcast shifts to addressing hotline questions from listeners, featuring humorous and irreverent responses to inquiries. Conan adds his comedic flair, poking fun at celebrity superfans Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard.

Ben Stiller [42:23]: "Nobody wants to hang with them."

Conan O'Brien [43:45]: "Daxie, Kristen are reviled."

Introducing Alan Stair: The Ultimate Severance Podcaster

The hosts welcome Alan Stair, the creator of Severed: The Ultimate Severance Podcast. Alan shares his passion for Severance, detailing his extensive research and dedication to dissecting the show’s intricacies. He discusses his favorite elements, such as the show's central conceit and the depth of character development, particularly focusing on Tramell Tillman's role.

Alan Stair [56:24]: "I remember in the second episode when we saw what was happening through the portal..."

Alan Stair [62:07]: "The performances are fantastic. The writing is so tight."

Deep Dive into Severance Theories and Analysis

Alan presents thoughtful theories about the show's plot mechanics, including the nature of the severance chip and the structure of Lumen Industries' office. Ben and Adam engage with his questions, maintaining the mystery while appreciating the complexity of the show's universe.

Alan Stair [64:10]: "Is the severance chip a switch or is it a storage device?"

Ben Stiller [66:30]: "We have a plan."

Conclusion: Continued Exploration and Future Episodes

The episode wraps up with Ben and Adam expressing gratitude to Conan and Alan for their insightful contributions. They encourage listeners to engage with the podcast and tease future discussions about the influences behind Severance. The hosts highlight the collaborative effort behind the podcast, giving thanks to their production team and reminding listeners to rate and review the show.

Ben Stiller [68:19]: "If you like the show, be sure to rate and review this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your other podcast platform of choice."

Adam Scott [68:30]: "Our executive producers are Bari Finkel, Gabrielle Lewis, Naomi Scott and Leah Rhys Dennis."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Conan O'Brien [12:47]: "There are downsides. You cannot hide."
• Conan O'Brien [25:29]: "I love any work. I mean, sometimes I come home and I watch very depressing things."
• Alan Stair [56:24]: "I remember in the second episode when we saw what was happening through the portal..."
• Ben Stiller [66:30]: "We have a plan."

Key Takeaways

• Revival of the Podcast: Ben and Adam restart the podcast to provide deeper insights into Severance and engage with their audience’s questions.
• Special Guests: Episode features Conan O'Brien and Alan Stair, offering a blend of comedic and analytical perspectives on the show.
• In-Depth Analysis: Conversations explore the intricate themes, character dynamics, and aesthetic elements that make Severance compelling.
• Audience Interaction: Engaging hotline segments add humor and relatability, enhancing listener connection.
• Future Episodes: Hosts hint at continued discussions on cultural influences and behind-the-scenes aspects of Severance.

This episode of The Severance Podcast showcases a unique blend of humor, deep analysis, and fan engagement, providing both seasoned viewers and newcomers with valuable insights into the beloved show. Through the interactions with Conan O'Brien and Alan Stair, listeners gain a multifaceted understanding of Severance, enriched by personal anecdotes and expert theories.