The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert

A gang of art forgers is shaking up the market with fake masterpieces while Costco sparks a butter recall. Meanwhile, cheese thefts are on the rise and banana-themed artwork becomes a quirky inspiration. Nicole Scherzinger shares her excitement about debuting on Broadway in 'Sunset Boulevard', reflecting on her passionate journey in theater. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of performance and the influence of mentors in the arts, revealing the unique dynamics between American and British audiences.

Stephen answers quirky audience questions, reminiscing about a past corporate collaboration from his unique presidential run. He shares insights on the atmosphere at The Late Show post-election and discusses the creative process behind his new cookbook. Expect laughter as he dives into the intricate relationship between humor, emotion, and collaboration in comedy. Plus, hear about his favorite spicy tomato rice dish and engage with exciting upcoming projects involving undercover operations!

The episode dives into delightful Thanksgiving traditions, highlighting the Colbert family's unique rituals and predictions. A humorous culinary debate ensues over the art of stuffing, from classic recipes to quirky twists. The hosts share their joy in baking, with creative food bars and amusing Thanksgiving card drafts adding to the festivities. Humor flows throughout as they recount past experiences and cooking tips, creating a warm and lively atmosphere perfect for the holiday spirit.

Ken Burns, an Emmy-winning director celebrated for his insightful historical documentaries, joins Stephen Colbert for a deep dive into creativity and legacy. They discuss Burns' latest work on Leonardo da Vinci, arguing why he’s the most important figure in the last millennium. The chat explores da Vinci's genius, artistic achievements, and the emotional depth in his work, particularly the Virgin of the Rocks. Burns also reflects on da Vinci’s curiosity and its impact on understanding humanity, inspiring listeners to explore their own identities.

A joyful conversation unfolds as the guest recalls the inspiration from 'Strangers With Candy' that boosted their acting career. They share humorous anecdotes about their childhood improv adventures, including a quirky audition in Japan. The nostalgia continues with reflections on classic British crime dramas and their cozy viewing vibes. The chat also touches on the stress of crime shows and even a surprising job opportunity at Panera Bread, blending laughter and fond memories throughout.

Francis Ford Coppola, the legendary director behind classics like The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, shares his insights on the filmmaking world in an engaging conversation. He dives into his ambitious new project, Megalopolis, discussing its themes of humanity's shared challenges and the importance of artistic freedom. Coppola also reflects on the transformative power of cinema, drawing parallels between ancient Rome and modern America, while sharing personal anecdotes that showcase the profound connection between art and society.

Elvis Costello and T Bone Burnett reminisce about their four-decade friendship and creative partnership, filled with humor and heartfelt moments. They explore the evolution of their music and the significance of key rock artists. Listeners are treated to stories about iconic musicians and a new six-disc box set. The duo hilariously debates a ridiculous legal claim regarding songwriting credits, showcasing their comedic chemistry. Tune in for insights into the American songbook wrapped in laughter and nostalgia.

Disney's new water ride is not getting good reviews, while Spirit Airlines faces bankruptcy. For car enthusiasts, the iconic Batmobile from ‘The Dark Knight’ trilogy is up for grabs at a whopping $3 million. The conversation then shifts to the bizarre world of science, featuring AI renditions of historical voices and curious studies about extended childhoods and the infamous corpse flower. Prepare for a blend of humor and weird scientific wonders that will leave you both entertained and enlightened.

Kacey Musgraves, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for her genre-blending music, shares heartfelt insights about her mentor John Prine and the impact of his work on her own artistry. She discusses her latest album, "Deeper Into The Well," and its unique style. Kacey also delights in playful anecdotes about her childhood memories from the Sweet Potato Festival and her whimsical armadillo Halloween costume. The conversation dives into themes of inspiration, nostalgia, and personal growth, highlighting Kacey's infectious spirit and creativity.

Matt Gaetz's dramatic withdrawal from the Attorney General nomination amid scandal leads to a satirical look at his personal life. Humorous critiques of political meetings reveal bizarre trends and low approval ratings for Trump’s allies. A light-hearted dive into Thanksgiving traditions is mixed with cookie innovations and the spirit of togetherness. Hakeem Jeffries champions healthcare rights, emphasizes the commitment to democracy, and introduces a children’s book aimed at teaching young Americans essential values.