---
title: "\"RE-RELEASE: Reese Witherspoon\" transcript | SmartLess | Reclip.Me"
description: "Full transcript of \"\"RE-RELEASE: Reese Witherspoon\"\" from SmartLess, November 5, 2026. 40 min, 8,715 words, timestamped. 8 notable quotes and 60 mentions…"
canonical: https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript
---

Transcript

# "RE-RELEASE: Reese Witherspoon"

From [SmartLess](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless) · [Episode page](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon) · [Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60_9LVGVqSI)

November 5, 2026 · 40 min · 8,715 words · 242 timestamped sections

This is the full, timestamped transcript of ""RE-RELEASE: Reese Witherspoon"", an episode of SmartLess published November 5, 2026 (40 min, about 8,715 words). It mentions 60 people, works and ideas, including Reese Witherspoon, Sean Hayes, Smartless, Will Arnett, Jason Bateman.

## What this episode is about

Reese Witherspoon is discussed in a casual, humorous chat where the hosts riff on guest surprises, running jokes, and light banter about pop culture, snacks, and everyday life behind the scenes of their show. The segment highlights their dynamic, humorous interactions and ongoing inside jokes rather than focusing on a singular topic.

## Key takeaways

- Smartless thrives on improvisation, but Reese Witherspoon-level prep would elevate the interviews from spontaneous charm to durable insights.
- The show’s chaos secret weapon is candid misdirection; lean into it, and you reveal surprising depth beneath the banter.
- Two hosts don’t know the guest? Excellent device for fresh perspectives, yet risks hollowing out genuine curiosity.
- Self-deprecating humor works, but balancing it with disciplined curiosity yields sharper takeaways than self-mockery alone.
- They chase casual vibes, yet Reese’s career arc proves the power of structured storytelling in an informal format.

## Who speaks in this episode?

- [Will Arnett](https://reclip.me/speaker/will-arnett) (Host) · 17 min speaking
- [Jason Bateman](https://reclip.me/speaker/jason-bateman) (Host) · 7 min speaking
- [Sean Hayes](https://reclip.me/speaker/sean-hayes) (Host) · 6 min speaking
- [Reese Witherspoon](https://reclip.me/speaker/reese-witherspoon) (Guest) · 9 min speaking

## What is discussed, and when

1. [0:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=0) – 5:00: [Reese Witherspoon](https://reclip.me/person/reese-witherspoon-2), [Will Arnett](https://reclip.me/person/will-arnett), [Nashville](https://reclip.me/location/nashville), [Scotty Haller](https://reclip.me/person/scotty-haller)
2. [5:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=300) – 10:00: [Clueless](https://reclip.me/media/clueless), [Dak Shepard](https://reclip.me/person/dak-shepard), [Legally Blonde](https://reclip.me/media/legally-blonde), [Porsche](https://reclip.me/company/porsche)
3. [10:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=600) – 15:00: [Jason Bateman](https://reclip.me/person/jason-bateman), [Big Little Lies](https://reclip.me/media/big-little-lies), [Gone Girl](https://reclip.me/book/gone-girl), [Wild](https://reclip.me/book/wild)
4. [15:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=900) – 20:00: [Reese Witherspoon](https://reclip.me/person/reese-witherspoon-2), [Sean Hayes](https://reclip.me/person/sean-hayes), [Arrested Development](https://reclip.me/media/arrested-development), [Morning Show](https://reclip.me/media/morning-show)
5. [20:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1200) – 25:00: [Kamal Harris](https://reclip.me/person/kamal-harris), [Amy Poehler](https://reclip.me/person/amy-poehler-2), [Doug Emhoff](https://reclip.me/person/doug-emhoff), [Friends](https://reclip.me/media/friends)
6. [25:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1500) – 30:00: [Hello Sunshine](https://reclip.me/company/hello-sunshine), [The COVID-19 pandemic](https://reclip.me/event/the-covid-19-pandemic), [Friends](https://reclip.me/media/friends), [Canada](https://reclip.me/location/canada)
7. [30:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1800) – 35:00: [Friends](https://reclip.me/media/friends), [Jason Bateman](https://reclip.me/person/jason-bateman), [Saturday Night Live](https://reclip.me/media/saturday-night-live), [911](https://reclip.me/event/911)
8. [35:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2100) – 39:56: [Reese Witherspoon](https://reclip.me/person/reese-witherspoon-2), [Sean Hayes](https://reclip.me/person/sean-hayes), [Jason Bateman](https://reclip.me/person/jason-bateman), [Will Arnett](https://reclip.me/person/will-arnett)

## Notable quotes from ""RE-RELEASE: Reese Witherspoon""

-

> Hey there, Will Arnett here from Smart List. It's the podcast where Jason Baitman, Sean Hayes, and I interview somebody. Two of us don't know who that person is because one of us has.

*about [Sean Hayes](https://reclip.me/person/sean-hayes) · at [0:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2)*
-

> Do you have a commercial campaign you're excited about right now, Ree? Now, I have this great thing with Buick where you can I have a book club really called Reese's Book Club.

*about [Buick](https://reclip.me/company/buick) · at [7:12](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=432)*
-

> Well, I started this book club because first before I started the book club, I started a production company probably 10 years ago because all the scripts I was getting were…

*about [Reese Witherspoon](https://reclip.me/person/reese-witherspoon-2) · at [10:07](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=607)*
-

> About which books we develop. So, right, the book club came out of the first two books I optioned for my production company were Gone Girl and Wild. And wow, they were both they both hit number.

*about [Big Little Lies](https://reclip.me/media/big-little-lies) · at [10:52](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=652)*
-

> Are you excited about Kla Harris? Oh gosh, y'all. Your interview with her was so well timed.

*about [Kamal Harris](https://reclip.me/person/kamal-harris) · at [23:56](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1436)*
-

> And so we've got to change the way and what you're talking about is changing the way changing our perspective on how we look at things and how Well, yeah. And just listen.

*about [Hello Sunshine](https://reclip.me/company/hello-sunshine) · at [28:22](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1702)*
-

> Social development. yeah, the depression that happened at the beginning of this pandemic between the two of them, not being able to see anybody and just, trusting my daughter.

*about [The COVID-19 pandemic](https://reclip.me/event/the-covid-19-pandemic) · at [29:20](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1760)*
-

> Mhm. \[clears throat\] I am going to become a farmer and I'm only going to plant peaches and call it Reese's Peaches.

*about [Reese's Peaches](https://reclip.me/product/reeses-peaches) · at [34:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2069)*

## Who and what is mentioned in this episode?

### People

- [Reese Witherspoon](https://reclip.me/person/reese-witherspoon-2) — Person · Main guest · 7 mentions · first at [3:27](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=207)
Primary interviewee; discussed her career, Hello Sunshine, Reese's Book Club, partnerships (Buick), and her idea 'Reese's Peaches' and bookstore plans.
- [Sean Hayes](https://reclip.me/person/sean-hayes) — Person · Host · 4 mentions · first at [0:05](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=5)
One of three SmartLess hosts leading conversation, asking many questions and interacting playfully with Reese.
- [Will Arnett](https://reclip.me/person/will-arnett) — Person · Host · 5 mentions · first at [0:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2)
One of three SmartLess hosts who opens the show, jokes, and banters with Reese and co-hosts.
Hey there, Will Arnett here from Smart List. It's the podcast where Jason Baitman, Sean Hayes, and I interview somebody. Two of us don't know who that person is because one of us has.
- [Jason Bateman](https://reclip.me/person/jason-bateman) — Person · Host · 5 mentions · first at [0:05](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=5)
One of three SmartLess hosts (referred to also as 'Jason Baitman' jokingly); contributes questions and production anecdotes.
List. It's the podcast where Jason Baitman, Sean Hayes, and I interview somebody. Two of us don't know who that person is because one of us has brought on a surprise guest.…
- [Kamal Harris](https://reclip.me/person/kamal-harris) — Person · Referenced public figure · 2 mentions · first at [23:56](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1436)
Referenced positively as an example of public service and representation; hosts discussed her VP candidacy and significance to girls of color.
- [Scotty Haller](https://reclip.me/person/scotty-haller) — Person · Referenced family member (husband) · 3 mentions · first at [1:18](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=78)
Reese's husband; referenced regarding being an Army brat and being friends with Doug Emhoff (mentioned elsewhere) and assisting with family anecdotes.
Listen, I want to tell you guys something. Scotty and I really look forward to our Jeopardy Wheel of Fortune hour every night. Do you guys watch?
- [Amy Poehler](https://reclip.me/person/amy-poehler-2) — Person · Referenced collaborator/friend · 2 mentions · first at [23:08](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1388)
Mentioned as someone Reese has worked with and as an example of funny women; referenced in SNL anecdote (Amy's first show).
Fastest I've ever worked with in terms of memorizing. He and I are both pretty quick at the same time. I remember one time Jason and I were going to do a scene on Arrested when…
- [Doug Emhoff](https://reclip.me/person/doug-emhoff) — Person · Referenced spouse of Kamala Harris · 1 mention · first at [24:55](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1495)
Mentioned positively when hosts and Reese discuss Kamala Harris and note Doug's likability/tech help during interview; part of political reference.
Anybody who dedicates their life to public service like that is just really remarkable. And I'm also fascinated about her husband, Doug. I want to learn. Yeah, Doug's amazing.
- [Dak Shepard](https://reclip.me/person/dak-shepard) — Person · Referenced acquaintance/story subject · 2 mentions · first at [5:16](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=316)
Mentioned in an anecdote about renting a Porsche and driving to a test track in Germany; used for comic story-telling by hosts.
That's true. That's true. We went to one time we were going over to Europe and Dax was going over with us like the day before and he lands in Frankfurt and he says to the guy, he rented a Porsche.
- [Rachel White](https://reclip.me/person/rachel-white) — Person · Cultural reference / Game show personality · 1 mention · first at [2:58](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=178)
Hosts joke about Vanna White turning letters on Wheel of Fortune when discussing game shows.
Hey, is Vanna still out there turning letters?
- [Mitch Hurwitz](https://reclip.me/person/mitch-hurwitz) — Person · Referenced collaborator · 1 mention · first at [15:14](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=914)
Mentioned as a writer/director (Arrested Development) and praised for dialogue; referenced in memorization anecdote involving Jason and Reese.
Was a twoman scene and it was like eight pages and right as we were walking to set Mitch goes, Hey guys, we just rewrote it and it was one of the first scenes and we both were…
- [Martin Scorsese](https://reclip.me/person/martin-scorsese) — Person · Referenced filmmaker (misnamed once) · 1 mention · first at [19:59](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1199)
Mentioned in a joke/mispronunciation ('Martin Schwarz') when discussing a guest (Martin Scorsese referenced as 'Martin Schwarz' earlier).
Love it. It's so fun. It's great to work with Jen every day and all those incredible people and even like Martin Schwarz came on our show and I was freaking out.
- [Maya Rudolph](https://reclip.me/person/maya-rudolph) — Person · Referenced comedian/actor · 1 mention · first at [23:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1404)
Listed among funny women by the hosts when discussing perceptions about humor and women in comedy.
There was always that argument like women aren't as funny. And I was not as funny. The funniest people I know are women. Women. I know. Amy and Tina and Maya and Rachel D.
- [Tina Fey](https://reclip.me/person/tina-fey) — Person · Referenced comedian/actor/writer · 1 mention · first at [23:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1404)
Mentioned as one of the funniest women in entertainment in a list of examples supporting Reese's point about women and comedy.
There was always that argument like women aren't as funny. And I was not as funny. The funniest people I know are women. Women. I know. Amy and Tina and Maya and Rachel D.
- [Amy Heckerling](https://reclip.me/person/amy-heckerling) — Person · Referenced director · 1 mention · first at [8:48](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=528)
Mentioned as the director who later discussed the Clueless casting (Reese auditioned and didn't get the role); part of audition anecdote.
I went pretty hard. Are you a fan of the writing an email to the director or the producer or you know and sort of declaring how eager you are for something or do you think it's better.
- [Lorne Michaels](https://reclip.me/person/lorne-michaels) — Person · Referenced SNL producer · 1 mention · first at [32:32](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1952)
Referenced (misnamed as 'Lauren Michaels') in SNL anecdote about pressure; discussed indirectly in context of Reese hosting SNL.
Bill was trying to imitate Lauren Michaels, the head of Saturday Night Live.
- [Martha Stewart](https://reclip.me/entity/108636) — Person · Referenced cultural figure (joke) · 1 mention · first at [34:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2042)
Mentioned in a throwaway joke about tiny chocolates and bookstores ('We're talking with Martha Stewart').
These messages. Can I talk with We're talking with Martha Stewart.

### Books & papers

- [Gone Girl](https://reclip.me/book/gone-girl) — Book · Referenced work optioned by guest · 1 mention · first at [10:59](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=659)
One of the first two books Reese optioned for her production company (along with Wild) and noted as a success that informed her book club origin.
About which books we develop. So, right, the book club came out of the first two books I optioned for my production company were Gone Girl and Wild. And wow, they were both they both hit number.
- [Wild](https://reclip.me/book/wild) — Book · Referenced work optioned by guest · 1 mention · first at [11:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=662)
Along with Gone Girl, one of the first books Reese optioned and developed (Wild became film starring Reese) — part of origin story for her production/book club.
About which books we develop. So, right, the book club came out of the first two books I optioned for my production company were Gone Girl and Wild. And wow, they were both they both hit number.

### Companies & orgs

- [Hello Sunshine](https://reclip.me/company/hello-sunshine) — Company · Guest's company · 1 mention · first at [28:19](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1699)
Reese references Hello Sunshine as her company focused on female-driven storytelling — central to why she started the book club and production choices.
- [Buick](https://reclip.me/company/buick) — Company · Partnership discussed · 1 mention · first at [7:13](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=433)
Reese mentions a partnership where Buick vehicles include an app that plays Audible books and her podcasts; discussed as part of her book club/Audible integration.
- [Instagram](https://reclip.me/company/instagram-2) — Company · Platform reference · 2 mentions · first at [11:06](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=666)
Referenced as the place where Reese originally posted book recommendations and then launched Reese's Book Club account after audience interest.
Wow, they were both they both hit number one at the same time. And somebody said to me, Well, you keep putting all this stuff on your Instagram. Why don't you just make a separate Instagram about the books you read? And so.
- [Audible](https://reclip.me/company/audible) — Company · Service integration · 1 mention · first at [7:26](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=446)
Referenced as the audiobook service integrated into Buick app and as part of Reese's book club distribution for audio versions.
And in all the new Buicks, we have an app that plays all the Audible books and all my favorite podcasts.
- [Child Mind Institute](https://reclip.me/company/child-mind-institute) — Company · Referenced mental health resource · 1 mention · first at [31:51](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1911)
Reese mentions sharing resources for parents during the pandemic and names Child Mind Institute as an example.
Absolutely. I try to share a lot of resources on Instagram for parents like Childmind Institute in New York does some online services that's really great. There's a lot of great sources.
- [HBO](https://reclip.me/company/hbo-2) — Company · Referenced broadcaster/producer · 1 mention · first at [38:10](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2290)
Mentioned as one of the platforms/networks where shows discussed (Reese's productions) appear.
It's it's unbelievable. And whether it's movies or like multiple television programs that are kind of seemingly running one into the next on HBO or on Apple Plus and like frankly it's it's kind of awe inspiring, you know? It's.
- [Netflix, Inc.](https://reclip.me/entity/111054) — Company · Referenced production/platform · 1 mention · first at [15:06](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=906)
Referenced when hosts discuss a 'Netflix season' connected to Arrested Development and broader TV production context.
Fastest I've ever worked with in terms of memorizing. He and I are both pretty quick at the same time. I remember one time Jason and I were going to do a scene on Arrested when…
- [Apple TV](https://reclip.me/company/apple-tv) — Company · Referenced streaming platform · 1 mention · first at [38:10](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2290)
Mentioned (as 'Apple Plus') alongside HBO as a platform hosting work produced by Reese Witherspoon's companies or contemporaries.
It's it's unbelievable. And whether it's movies or like multiple television programs that are kind of seemingly running one into the next on HBO or on Apple Plus and like frankly it's it's kind of awe inspiring, you know? It's.
- [Elizabeth Arden](https://reclip.me/company/elizabeth-arden) — Company · Referenced beauty brand (past endorsement) · 1 mention · first at [7:09](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=429)
Reese mentions doing Elizabeth Arden (misspoken 'Ardan') as part of her past commercial work.
Do you have a commercial campaign you're excited about right now, Ree? Now, I have this great thing with Buick where you can I have a book club really called Reese's Book Club.
- [Vanity Fair](https://reclip.me/company/vanity-fair) — Company · Referenced publication · 1 mention · first at [8:48](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=528)
Referenced as the outlet where Amy Heckerling discussed casting (Clueless) which revealed information about Reese's past audition.
I never really let anybody know how hard I went at that one and didn't get it.
- [Porsche](https://reclip.me/company/porsche) — Company · Referenced in anecdote · 2 mentions · first at [5:07](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=307)
Referenced in a humorous anecdote about renting a Porsche and visiting a test track in Germany; cultural reference only.
Dax was going over with us like the day before and he lands in Frankfurt and he says to the guy, he rented a Porsche from like Avis or whatever and he goes, Can I can you tell…
- [Subway](https://reclip.me/company/subway) — Company · Cultural reference · 1 mention · first at [0:50](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=50)
Referenced in banter about the '$5 foot long' jingle and Will's obsession; casual cultural mention unrelated to guest business.
It's $5 foot long Subway that Will's kind of obsessed with.
- [MSNBC](https://reclip.me/company/msnbc) — Company · Referenced news network · 1 mention · first at [2:40](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=160)
Mentioned by a host when describing what he watches on cable while away from basic channels.
Cable in the trailer. So, so that's why he's watching those game shows. I'm on I'm on cable, right? So, I'm watching MSNBC or things. You've got a I just I and I say that…
- [Avis](https://reclip.me/company/avis) — Company · Referenced car rental company · 1 mention · first at [5:20](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=320)
Company name; capitalization should be correct
Dax was going over with us like the day before and he lands in Frankfurt and he says to the guy, he rented a Porsche from like Avis or whatever and he goes, Can I can you tell…
- [Avon](https://reclip.me/company/avon) — Company · Referenced product/early work · 1 mention · first at [7:05](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=425)
Reese references having done Avon (and Elizabeth Arden) as early cosmetic modeling/endorsement work; anecdotal career detail.
Weren't you like a huge You were like the huge Avon or something, right?

### Products & tech

- [Reese's Peaches](https://reclip.me/product/reeses-peaches) — Product · Business focus / Retirement idea mentioned by guest · 1 mention · first at [34:36](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2076)
Reese's playful retirement plan/business idea: becoming a farmer planting only peaches and calling it 'Reese's Peaches' (mentioned as part of dreams/branding).
- [Reese's Peanut Butter Cups](https://reclip.me/product/reeses-peanut-butter-cups) — Product · Incidental reference / joke · 1 mention · first at [6:44](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=404)
Mentioned jokingly by hosts (Will: 'I am the voice of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups') — candy referenced incidentally.
I am the voice of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. And he really is. Reese Witherspman, welcome to our shows.

### Concepts & topics

- [Singapore Math](https://reclip.me/concept/singapore-math) — Concept · Referenced educational approach · 1 mention · first at [36:17](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2177)
Mentioned when Will describes attending a math symposium regarding revised math curricula (parents learning new methods like 'Singapore math').
It's really It is tough. I went to a math I went to a they had like a math symposium for in when Archie was in fourth grade to talk about how they were redoing the math and I was I gotta.

### Places & events

- [The COVID-19 pandemic](https://reclip.me/event/the-covid-19-pandemic) — Event · Contextual event · 1 mention · first at [28:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1718)
Used to discuss production safety, kids/parenting challenges, and returning to sets with masks and pods.
- [Nashville](https://reclip.me/location/nashville) — Place · Biographical location · 2 mentions · first at [4:22](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=262)
Reese states she grew up in Nashville; relevant to her origin story and identity.
So my dad was in the Air Force and so in the 70s we were in Germany and then we came back to Nashville. I grew up there and then I started making movies when I was 14.
- [Germany](https://reclip.me/location/germany) — Place · Biographical location · 1 mention · first at [4:42](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=282)
Reese and hosts reference Reese's childhood living on an army base in Germany; part of her background story.
Well, how old were you when you left Germany? And were you old enough to know German?
- [911](https://reclip.me/event/911) — Event · Historical reference · 2 mentions · first at [32:22](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1942)
Referenced in discussion of SNL timing (Reese hosted first SNL after 9/11) to illustrate pressure and context of that performance.
You did Saturday Night Live right after 911?
- [Stuttgart](https://reclip.me/location/stuttgart) — Place · Referenced childhood location · 1 mention · first at [5:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=302)
Mentioned when discussing Reese and Scotty's childhoods on Army bases in Germany (Scotty lived in 'Stoutgart' / Stuttgart).
Those are neighbor cities because I think Abbottton is where the Porsche test track is from what I understand.
- [Frankfurt](https://reclip.me/entity/111662) — Place · Referenced travel location in anecdote · 1 mention · first at [5:18](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=318)
Referenced in a story about renting a Porsche and traveling to a test track in Germany.
From like Avis or whatever and he goes, Can I can you tell me how to get to that test track? And the guy goes, Yeah, of course you go this way, but you must not use this car on the test.
- [Florida](https://reclip.me/entity/107013) — Place · Host biographical reference · 2 mentions · first at [2:25](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=145)
Mentioned in host banter as a place where a host moved to and discusses watching game shows; part of casual conversation.
Well, this for I forget when did you move to Florida again? I forget this because and so do you argue with people when you're in line for the early bird? Like.
- [Vaihingen](https://reclip.me/location/vaihingen) — Place · Referenced childhood location (uncertain transcription) · 1 mention · first at [4:59](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=299)
Known German location; transcription intended to be Vaihingen
I lived in Vspotton on an army base.
- [Berlin](https://reclip.me/location/berlin) — Place · Referenced city in accent joke · 1 mention · first at [5:51](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=351)
Referenced as a joking reaction to an attempted German accent ("If I close my eyes, I'm in Berlin").
How would you like it to sound, Mr.
- [Canada](https://reclip.me/location/canada) — Place · Referenced country (joke) · 1 mention · first at [25:39](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1539)
Country-level mention in joke context; location is valid
These guys said that I could never be the prime minister of Canada, which I took great umbrage with.

### Media & podcasts

- [Smartless](https://reclip.me/media/smartless) — Media · Podcast / Host platform · 1 mention · first at [0:20](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=20)
This episode is the SmartLess podcast; hosts are Sean, Jason, Will; Reese is guest.
Hey there, Will Arnett here from Smart List. It's the podcast where Jason Baitman, Sean Hayes, and I interview somebody. Two of us don't know who that person is because one of us has.
- [Big Little Lies](https://reclip.me/media/big-little-lies) — Media · Referenced work · 1 mention · first at [12:03](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=723)
Referenced as one of the books Reese optioned and developed via her production company; example of her production success and impetus for book club.
- [Saturday Night Live](https://reclip.me/media/saturday-night-live) — Media · Referenced media · 2 mentions · first at [32:19](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1939)
Discussed by Reese as one of the scariest jobs she did (hosted twice, first after 9/11) and referenced in anecdotes.
But can I tell y'all Saturday Night Live is the scariest thing I've ever done.
- [Clueless](https://reclip.me/media/clueless) — Media · Referenced media (film Reese auditioned for) · 3 mentions · first at [8:18](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=498)
Reese says she auditioned hard for Clueless but did not get it; used as anecdote about auditions and career path.
Have gotten that somebody else got? They did a great job and you were Oh, well I really wanted Clueless. Yeah.
- [Jeopardy](https://reclip.me/media/jeopardy) — Media · Referenced media · 2 mentions · first at [1:20](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=80)
Mentioned in banter: hosts talk about watching Jeopardy and Reese notes her name has appeared as a clue/category on Jeopardy.
First time this year. You would have thought my name was on Jeopardy. That's how excit That's And my name has been on Jeopardy, but it was above Yeah, I just threw that down.
- [Arrested Development](https://reclip.me/media/arrested-development) — Media · Referenced TV series · 1 mention · first at [15:06](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=906)
Mentioned when discussing a shared scene and rehearsal experience involving Jason Bateman (and Reese referencing working with Jason).
Time Jason and I were going to do a scene on Arrested when we were doing that Netflix season and we walked. It was a twoman scene and it was like eight pages and right as we…
- [Morning Show](https://reclip.me/media/morning-show) — Media · Referenced media (The Morning Show) · 1 mention · first at [19:41](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1181)
Hosts mention acting on The Morning Show and praise Reese's work with cast/crew; referenced in conversation about returning to sets.
We don't add lib that much on morning show, but we have such great dialogue.
- [Friends](https://reclip.me/media/friends) — Media · Referenced media · 6 mentions · first at [20:13](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1213)
Reese asked if hosts had done Friends arc; discussed whether she'd do sitcom/live audience; used as career anecdote reference.
So Reys, now you did a Friends arc, did you not? Where you were in front of an audience? Would you ever do a sitcom in front of a live audience?
- [Wheel of Fortune](https://reclip.me/media/wheel-of-fortune) — Media · Referenced media · 2 mentions · first at [1:20](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=80)
Mentioned in hosts' banter about watching game shows (paired with Jeopardy).
You shamed me yesterday. Yeah, but wait, but like I'll watch Wheel of Fortune and it'll, the puzzle will be like blank of one, half dozen of another, and I'm it's six, but then they can't.
- [Legally Blonde](https://reclip.me/media/legally-blonde) — Media · Referenced work · 2 mentions · first at [7:48](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=468)
Referenced in passing during Jeopardy anecdote (Tracy, Legally Blonde) and as part of Reese's filmography context.
The two dudes next to her had no idea who I was. It's just like LEGALLY BLONDE TRACY \[clears throat\] FLICK. Do you remember the title of the category?
- [Tracy Flick](https://reclip.me/entity/137929) — Character · Referenced fictional character (joke) · 1 mention · first at [8:18](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=498)
Mentioned briefly in a comedic aside by hosts referencing 'Tracy' as a label for an aunt — cultural reference to a well-known fictional ambitious character.
So, so it's a tra the Tracy ticker.
- [Obi-Wan Kenobi](https://reclip.me/entity/137933) — Character · Cultural reference / joke · 2 mentions · first at [38:41](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2321)
Referenced in a joking plea 'Help me Obi-Wan, help me anybody' as a pop-culture allusion.
Help me any just change my circumstances. I'm doing a Miss Universe project too. There's a script. I'm doing it with your dad. Oh, we couldn't even get that one out.
- [Star Wars](https://reclip.me/media/star-wars) — Media · Cultural reference · 1 mention · first at [38:32](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2312)
Referenced jokingly in closing banter ('Help me Obi-Wan'), part of hosts' pop-culture humor.
Is just don't hire me is why all that can this is help me help not help me Obi-Wan, help me anybody. You're my only hope.

## Full transcript with timestamps

[0:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2) Hey there, Will Arnett here from Smart List. It's the podcast where Jason Baitman, Sean Hayes, and I interview somebody. Two of us don't know who that person is because one of us has brought on a surprise guest. That's the whole conceit. I wish I could describe it better, but I'm I'm not that smart. So, it's smartless and it's starting now. Smartless. Smart. Smart.

[0:40](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=40) We do a little pre-dance, right? We always do a little Yeah, we do a little So, but have we played that little tune on our podcast yet?

[0:47](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=47) We haven't played it on the show yet. We've always done it in the pre- room. It's $5 foot long Subway that Will's kind of obsessed with.

[0:53](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=53) I'm obsessed with that song. So toetappy. And I feel like if we just throw it on the podcast a couple times, we might get some sammies.

[1:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=60) Free sammies. Yeah, we might. I think it's a big hit with the $5 foot long. And by the way, I'll even take the 6 in. That's fine. With a bag of chips and a soda, I'll take that, too.

[1:09](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=69) If I had a dollar, the number of times I've heard you say that, Will, that you'll take a 6 in. I know.

[1:15](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=75) Oh lord. I know. Listen, I want to tell you guys something. Scotty and I really look forward to our Jeopardy Wheel of Fortune hour every night. Do you guys watch?

[1:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=84) What? Anybody? Oh, 7 and 7:30. That's right. Oh, see. Okay. So, now listen, I don't watch yet, but in my defenses, cuz I haven't given up yet.

[1:33](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=93) Yeah. You watch those two shows in your sweatpants, right? Yeah. Okay. Says, says the guy says the guy in PJs. Now, listen, guys. Look, that's a that's a naked knee. You see there? I've got shorts today.

[1:45](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=105) I've got shorts on today. I really got shame. You really hurt us, huh? You really hurt us.

[1:48](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=108) You shamed me yesterday. Yeah, but wait, but like I'll watch Wheel of Fortune and it'll, you know, the puzzle will be like, you know, like blank of one, half dozen of another, and I'm like, it's six, but then they they can't ever get it. I'm yelling at the CV. But then the last puzzle, do you ever do you watch Jason for real?

[2:07](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=127) I have in the past. Okay, so the last puzzle now, the bonus round, they put two words together that never make any sense, right? They'll do like

[2:15](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=135) that I haven't seen. They'll be like the phrase is like charred bricks or something.

[2:19](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=139) Sure. You know, and uh it's really upsetting, but I this is all moot because you guys don't watch.

[2:25](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=145) Well, this for I forget when did you move to Florida again? I forget this because

[2:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=149) and so do you argue with people when you're in line for the early bird? Like what's going on?

[2:33](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=153) Yeah. And it's just all you get is basic cable in the trailer. So, um so that's why he's watching those game shows. I'm on I'm on cable, right? So, I'm watching uh MSNBC or things. You've got a um

[2:46](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=166) I just I and I say that because my grandparents lived in Florida and my grandmother would talk to the TV and they'd be stuff would be going on and you hear in the other room she'd be going, "Uh-huh." Yeah. Uhhuh. And I'm like, I know she's in there by herself.

[2:58](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=178) Hey, is Vanna Is Vanna still out there turning turning letters? She sure is. She's turning lots of letters.

[3:03](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=183) Turning cubes. Yeah. Turning cubes. Anyway, guys, today Yes. This very \[clears throat\] powerful woman has accomplished more in her few years on this earth than most people have in their entire lifetime.

[3:14](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=194) She a bodybuilder. Very powerful. Oh, not in that sense. Maybe. No, but she's very much in shape.

[3:21](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=201) I'm I'm pretty confident you guys and our listener will know who she is. She's an Oscar winner, Golden Globe, and Emmy winner. If you don't know her, Google her. Her name is Reese Witherspoon.

[3:32](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=212) Oh my gosh. Mrs. America. \[screaming\] Hey. Wow, look at her setup. Look at that. I've got First of all, I got microphone envy. Wait a minute. Why do you have It looks like a mic from the 20s.

[3:44](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=224) Oh, because that's my other job. I'm just kidding. She's a time traveler. Dum dum. D

[3:51](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=231) just in. That's what it looks like. America's not DOING VERY WELL. A HAMBURGER SANDWICH.

[3:56](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=236) OH, I'll take that. Oh, Reese, I'm so happy you said yes to huge. Well, longtime lister, first time caller.

[4:07](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=247) No, you haven't listened to any of these. I have. I've been listening, guys. Really?

[4:12](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=252) Yes. You guys have really good guests. Who's your favorite? And I don't mean guest. I don't mean guests

[4:18](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=258) of you three hosts. Wait, she's got to name her favorite Jeez, that's tough. Rey, you're from Nashville, aren't you?

[4:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=264) That's right. I'm from Nashville, Tennessee. Well, how old were you when you moved out and where did you move to? Straight to LA?

[4:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=269) Well, let me see. Well, I was an Army Air Force brat, actually. So we grew up in all over.

[4:34](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=274) Come on. My husband Scotty's an army brat. Grew up in like 17 cities. Yeah. Um Yeah. So he's been traveling around. So my dad was in the Air Force and so in the 70s we were in Germany and then we came back to Nashville. I grew up there and then I started making movies when I was 14.

[4:50](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=290) Well, how old were you when you left Germany? And were you old enough to know German?

[4:54](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=294) Yes, I was five. I spoke German then. But what part of Germany? I lived in Vspotton on an army base. Scotty lived in Stoutgart.

[5:04](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=304) Oh, really? Yeah. Those are neighbor cities because I think uh Abbottton is where the Porsche test track is

[5:10](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=310) from what I understand. Oh, that might be right. That's true. That's true. We went to one time we were going over to Europe and Dax was going over with us like the day before and he lands in Frankfurt and he says to the guy, um, he rented a Porsche from like Avis or whatever and he goes, "Can I um can you tell me how to get to that test track?" And the guy goes, "Yeah, of course you go this way, but uh you must not use this car on the test." And the dad goes, "Oh, no, for sure. For sure I won't. No, for sure I won't. But just tell me where it is."

[5:37](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=337) And the guy's like, "Okay, it is here, but let me be clear. You cannot use this on like, of course, of course I won't." Yeah, for sure. Thanks, man. You know, straight to the test track.

[5:49](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=349) Is that your German accent? It's pretty good. If I close my eyes, I'm in Berlin.

[5:53](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=353) Wow. Crazy. How would you like it to sound, Mr. Hayes? Oh, this is better. That is really unthreatening. That one I had to lean, but I was trying to oscillate back and forth between Mr. Shepard and this guy.

[6:07](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=367) But Mr. Hayes, you have caught my attention now. Reese, Will wanted me to say this joke to you, which I I just think is so dumb, but he wanted me to ask you

[6:16](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=376) cuz everybody's been wondering. Wait, I thought who knew that I was coming and who didn't know?

[6:20](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=380) That's why this is a joke. We know this isn't real. If I had ever ran into you, Will wanted me to ask, "Have you ever been without your spoon?"

[6:31](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=391) Okay. I would, but I'd be in pieces. Oh, listen. So now, Reese, terrible. Reese, Reese, are you are you not sorry?

[6:42](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=402) Sorry. That's a crossover. You're talking to the voice of Reese's Pieces right there.

[6:46](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=406) I am the voice of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. And he really is. Reese Witherspman, welcome to our shows.

[6:53](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=413) Welcome to Smart. This is the show where Reese listens to three guys talk. I know. I know. I know. Yeah.

[7:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=420) Sorry. Yeah. Welcome to Hollywood, people. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Weren't you like a huge You were like the huge Avon or something, right?

[7:09](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=429) I did Avon for years and I did Elizabeth Ardan for years. Do you have a commercial campaign you're excited about right now, Ree? Now, I have this great thing with Buick where you can I have a book club really

[7:19](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=439) called Reese's Book Club. Yeah, sure. And in all the new Buicks, we have an app that plays all the Audible books and all my favorite podcasts.

[7:28](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=448) Oh, wow. Which is kind of fun. Great idea. I thought you were going to say in every Buick there's a stand to put a book that you read at stop lightss.

[7:37](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=457) Mhm. Oh god. Sean. So, wait a minute. The audio books are in the Buicks. Yeah, they're in bet. All of our pics are embedded in the Buick. And I'm I got so excited, y'all. I saw it for the first time this year. You would have thought my name was on Jeopardy. That's how excit That's And my name has been on Jeopardy, but it was above

[7:56](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=476) Yeah, I just threw that down. What was it? Was it There's a Jeopardy thing going on, y'all.

[8:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=480) Now, was it a $1,200 clue or a $200 clue? I think I was um a 500 first round clue.

[8:07](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=487) Oh. Oh, there was a girl. The sweet girl once sweeped because I was a whole category.

[8:12](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=492) \[gasps\] Are you serious? But it's actually worth googling because the two dudes next to her had no idea who I was.

[8:18](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=498) It's just like LEGALLY BLONDE TRACY \[clears throat\] FLICK. Do you remember the title of the category?

[8:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=504) It was SOMETHING LIKE REESE'S P. YEAH, of course. If only you had read it. Well,

[8:30](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=510) I know. I wish I Wait, I want to know like your a crazy audition story like cuz we've all shared ours. A crazy audition or crazy.

[8:36](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=516) What about one that you wish you would have gotten that somebody else got? They did a great job and you were

[8:41](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=521) Oh, well I really wanted Clueless. Yeah. When I was 18 and great like I've never told anybody and then Amy Heckerling did a whole thing in Vanity Fair last year and told everybody.

[8:52](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=532) Oh wow. You know when you that pops up and you're like thanks. Yeah. I never really let anybody know how how hard I went at that one and didn't get it.

[9:04](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=544) I went pretty hard. Are you a fan of the writing an email to the director or the producer or you know and sort of declaring how eager you are for something or do you think it's better strategy to kind of have sexy indifference?

[9:16](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=556) No, I'm the I'm the passionate go for it person cuz I feel like ego is the death of creativity. Like

[9:21](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=561) yes, your ego comes before it. Like you can't be on set in a collaborative medium like this. Like we work with 200 300 people a day. If you can't bend your ego to the side for a minute, you're not going to do very well.

[9:36](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=576) Yeah. Yeah. I totally agree. Art is absent of ego. I think it should be. But I mean,

[9:42](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=582) it should be. Y'all did just talk about each other for like 10 solid minutes. No, I'm just kidding.

[9:47](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=587) I know. I know. Well, we love each other a lot. But wait, so I'm really psyched about this uh thing you did with Buick about putting these books.

[9:54](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=594) Oh my god. Please, let's not dwell. No. Well, I just want to say like what was the so you have this book club and this was like the natural progression of that. I mean obviously, right? Uh so how did how did you start the book club thing? What was the genesis of that?

[10:07](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=607) Well, you know, I started this book club because first before I started the book club, I um I started a production company probably 10 years ago because all the scripts I was getting were just so god awful. Like literally. And listener, this is the gold standard of ball production companies in Hollywood, by the way. Thanks for saying this Witherspoon here is in now and it also it also dubtales into your book club thing because listener, she reads I think, correct me if I'm wrong, a book a day.

[10:35](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=635) Do you really read a book a day? Probably every two days. She's insane. Are you kidding me?

[10:41](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=641) I'm so jealous. My eyes get crossed sometimes. That's why I wear glasses a lot.

[10:45](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=645) What about scripts? Does that mean that you don't you'd rather read a book than a script or you

[10:48](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=648) I read scripts but there aren't as many scripts cuz I like I'm very discerning about which books we develop. So,

[10:54](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=654) right, the book club came out of the first two books I optioned for my production company were Gone Girl and Wild. And

[11:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=662) wow, they were both um they both hit number one at the same time. And somebody said to me, "Well, you keep putting all this stuff on your Instagram. Why don't you just make a separate Instagram about the books you read?" And so

[11:12](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=672) I did and it it just started doing really well. And it actually has been this incredible opportunity to have first firsttime authors get their book noticed and seen and

[11:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=684) um yeah that's exciting. And now are these publishers giving you early looks at things and hoping that you'll like it and that Yeah.

[11:31](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=691) Yeah. So I'm I'm reading right now for February. Now do do you have people that you trust? You've got to have people that that help you with some of the reading.

[11:40](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=700) It's like me and one other person are reading. My CEO of my company are doing it together. So you're waiting through all of it yourself. Like that's that's amazing. That's a lot of work.

[11:48](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=708) Yeah. But you can get through Well, the first filter is it's written by a woman and it start and it has a woman at the center of it and I have a no women locked in a basement rule.

[11:58](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=718) Why? Why? Oh god. Why is that? That actually reminds me of the story. I was like after Big Little Lies, this executive in in LA called me in at one of the major studios and he was like, "Hey, hey, I just we would love to have something like Big Little Lies at our studio." And I'm like, "Oh, thank you so much." He was like, "It was so good. I just have I just have one one little comment.

[12:21](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=741) I can't believe it's coming. I can't believe it's coming." The guy's parts just they're just not as good.

[12:30](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=750) Uhhuh. Yeah. That is genius. Wow. So, you're getting it. Wow. And who was that? Not the name, but that that was somebody at a stu at the a buyer or

[12:41](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=761) he ran a major studio. He's just emailed me yesterday. He's like out of the business now starting an app. And he's like, "Hey, I'm starting an app."

[12:51](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=771) Wow. For men. Do you have any guy centric ideas for my app? Exactly. He had all guys starting the app, too.

[13:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=780) Oh my god. It's amazing. \[gasps\] I'm fascinated in the reading of it all. So, are you a are you a speed reader or are you just great?

[13:08](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=788) Yeah, I can read really fast. And that is just something that came naturally to you or is that or did you work on that when you were a kid?

[13:13](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=793) I actually didn't know that was like something that everybody didn't have until I met my husband and we were probably going on a date or something one weekend and he was like, "Hey, um, can we go out of town?" I was like, "Yeah, I just have to read scripts." He's like, "You're going to be reading a a" I was like, "Yeah, I just have three scripts to read." And he's like, "That's going to take all weekend." And I was like, "Oh, no, no, no. You read? Are you kidding?" He's like, "You can." I was like, "It takes me about 45 minutes to read script." And then, you know, I'm just And he was like,

[13:43](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=823) "What?" And so I didn't know. I think my grandma was a first grade teacher and she taught me how to read when I was four or five and I think she taught me how to speedread.

[13:54](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=834) Wow. But I I can't ask her because she's not here anymore. God bless you, Grandma. But um yeah,

[13:59](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=839) I do read really fast. It took Jason It took Jason three days to read the definition of reading uh in the dictionary. That's And it's only a paragraph.

[14:08](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=848) I couldn't figure out the left to right. I had the top to bottom thing. Right. Top bottom. Yeah.

[14:13](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=853) Yeah. Um so do you do you do you know if you have a specific technique? Like some people say like they group three words at a time or

[14:20](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=860) but you know what is so fascinating? Have you ever taken time on set to see how your fellow actor memorizes lines? I'm fascinated

[14:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=869) cuz I can tell. No, cuz I it's it's such a solitary, right? So, we all probably memorize our lines in different ways. And so, if you start to ask people what their tricks are, it that it has a lot to do with how you read.

[14:43](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=883) Do you ever do this when you ever memorize line? Whenever you memorize lines, do you remember like if you forget a word, but you remember the letter it starts with? That happens to me a lot. Yes. What about y'all?

[14:53](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=893) I can see the page. You can see the whole page. I can see the whole page. All I have to do is see it basically once. Jason's the fastest I've ever worked with in terms of memorizing. He and I are both pretty quick at the same time. I remember one time Jason and I were going to do a scene on Arrested when we were doing that Netflix season and we walked. It was a twoman scene and it was like eight pages and right as we were walking to set Mitch goes, "Hey guys, we just rewrote it and it was one of the first scenes and we both were walking and Jason and I would go blah blah And you're going to say blah blah blah. We looked, we looked, we looked, we looked, we looked, we buried the script and we started shooting. Do you remember that, Jay?

[15:27](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=927) So amazing. Also, Mitch Herwitz writes such good dialogue. Good dialogue. It it is if it's well written, it does go into your brain pretty easily

[15:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=938) when it's well written. But so Reese, when you memorize though, are you you're going top to bottom on the page and you're just memorizing it like that, or are you memorizing it in groups or thoughts?

[15:49](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=949) Do you memorize it as fast as you read? Um, I don't know. It takes me three runs. I have to read it the night before,

[15:55](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=955) then during hair makeup, then I have to say it alone in a quiet space, and then I have to hold the sides. Even though the sides have nothing to do, sides are our little lines that we carry on set. And then

[16:08](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=968) for the rehearsal, I have to hold them in my hand. And then during the blocking, wherever I stand is where I say the line. And if you change my blocking,

[16:17](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=977) I can't remember the line. Right. Forget it. Yeah, that's why. Yeah, I can't really remember my lines until the scene is blocked.

[16:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=984) Same. I Wait, I want to hear your process, Jason, because this kind of stuff is really fascinating to me.

[16:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=989) Blocking is what, Jason? Is where you stand, where you sit, when you get up, all that stuff. This is This is This is for Sean's aunt in Wisconsin, I believe it is.

[16:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=998) No, Sean was very happy. You see how excited Sean got when recently he was very kindly explained what sides are. And Sean was so excited because he loves explaining things.

[16:48](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1008) Well, I think that's important. I do too. Thank you, Reese Witherspoon. What's her name, by the way? What's the sister's name?

[16:53](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1013) Tracy. So, so it's a tra the Tracy ticker. Bottom of the screen for explanation. Um, okay. So, what I do is I I I think a lot about about about how I'm going to do it, which is which is actually not really a good thing to do as an actor. Um, and that's why I don't really get them perfectly memorized before I do it because I don't want to nail in how I'm going to do it because I got to leave room for how you're going to be doing your lines, you know, so I can be flexible with performance. So, actually, I learned my lines um, specifically once we do our rehearsal and then they're lighting the shot and the stand-ins are in there.

[17:28](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1048) Have you ever had this moment on set where you're looking at somebody and they're doing like they're doing such incredible work you forget the lines?

[17:36](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1056) Yeah. All you start watching. I do that a lot when I'm directing. Yeah. You get out of your body and you start looking at them and going like either, \[clears throat\] holy they're so bad in this scene or

[17:47](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1067) oh my god, I can't believe I get to act with this human. When I'm directing something that I'm in, I've got to be doing that at like I got to be watching their performance at the same time. So yeah, sometimes it's it is and you're thinking about, oh my god, how am I going to edit around? It's got to be so hard. But it's but it's fun cuz it's a great it's a perfect seat to to have like you're right there and you can actually if they're open to it. You can give them adjustments and notes while you're inside the scene. You don't necessarily have to wait till the end and try to remember your notes and stuff like that.

[18:14](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1094) That's cool. Um but I I love it. I can't memorize lines without making a choice. I know a lot of actors, like you just said, Jason, they memorize the words, but they wait until rehearsal to kind of figure out how it goes.

[18:26](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1106) Memorize it like a robot. Some will even write it down. They'll they'll write their lines out and and they'll remember they'll remember every single word like real staccato. I couldn't do that.

[18:35](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1115) I worked with this actor once and he couldn't if you ad lived at all and it was a comedy so you got to just be loose, you know, cuz that stuff gets really stuck and not funny. It gets not funny after take three. It's just not funny anymore,

[18:49](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1129) right? \[snorts\] And if I didn't say the last line, written line, he literally only knew my last word.

[18:55](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1135) So if I didn't say the word, he would remember his line. And I thought, he's not listening to me.

[19:01](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1141) A Yeah, I've worked with people like that who who are like, "Oh, sorry. I didn't hear the queue." And you're like, "Well, how did you not know that I was saying the same thing?"

[19:09](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1149) Right. It's the intention. Yeah. It's the intention. Stupid ass. I usually just wait for a huge gaping pause and that's when I know I come.

[19:17](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1157) Oh, they stop talking. It's my turn. I spend I spend half my time so excited about doing something that's going to crack the other person up. So, I'm just giddy. I'm like bursting to to to around at all times, even in life, that I'm just like giddy.

[19:31](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1171) That's so fun to be around people who are like so excited to add lib and I'm Yeah, I love that.

[19:36](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1176) It's infectious. Yeah. You guys seem to be having that that kind of vibe on morning show.

[19:42](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1182) We don't add lib that much on morning show, but we have such great dialogue. Yeah. Yes.

[19:47](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1187) Yeah. It's so good. By the way, I I love the show and you're fantastic. So good in it. So I love I love it. It's so fun. It's great to work with Jen every day and and all those incredible people and even like Martin Schwarz came on our show and I was freaking out.

[20:03](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1203) I know. He was so great. I think he got nominated, didn't he? He did. Got nominated.

[20:06](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1206) Yeah. Yeah, he did. When do you guys go back? We're going to go back right now. Um it's going to be interesting. I've been talking to some friends who are on sets and wearing masks and then I'm like, what's it like to to try and stay in the scene but then also stay safe and keep everybody safe. So, just kind of trying to mentally prepare for that. But I'm excited to work again cuz I'm going nuts over here.

[20:30](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1230) You and me both. Look at us. We started a goddamn podcast. We're so crazy. You guys are so much fun to listen to. I was like, hold on. That's what called me Kaling. I was like, SHOULD WE BE DOING WHAT THOSE guys are doing? You should. Yeah.

[20:43](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1243) Yeah, you should get on it. Well, your list of accomplishments is endless. Speaking of like, I don't know what to do with myself because I'm similar, but you're much more prolific than I am. Your acting career, your producing career, your clothing company, your book club. You're like in seven television shows right now all at once. Oh, and oh, you're a mom. I mean, these guys know my story, but what in the hell happened to you as a child that gave you that gave you this like boundless ambition? M well I was always like a a really overachieving kid but I wanted you know I think every actor has to kind of dig down and figure out who are you trying to make happy. So once you figure that out like I figured that out through seven years of therapy. I figured it out.

[21:25](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1285) Yeah. Or you graduated. I Well I think I graduated from therapy. My therapist passed away so I just I didn't go anywhere. But um

[21:33](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1293) Oh no. Um but then you figure it out. Was it a parent? Was it a family member? For sure. For sure. It's always right. Am I right or wrong? How do you all feel? Give me an amen.

[21:45](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1305) For sure. I'm still trying to get my out of boys. Yeah. Um, so it's usually like whose approval are you trying to get? And once you kind of solve that puzzle, then it's like, okay, why am I still doing this? What am I doing? That's when my whole career shifted to more purpose driven. I want more women behind the camera. I want to see more stories written from a woman's perspective by a woman. I want to have women make more money.

[22:11](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1331) Um, and it just gave me fuel, you know. Yeah. It's changed my whole life. Is that what inspired you to in the lead in the way of uh fight for women's equality and equal pay for genders and and do you think your efforts have paid off and where are we?

[22:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1344) Absolutely. I mean, I see so much shifting, so much more consciousness. The lights are on. People are actually having these conversations and discussions. I \[snorts\] mean,

[22:35](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1355) y'all know how prolific it was that there were there were no people of color at agencies and um no people of color as executives at studios. And now I'm seeing so much more of an effort to actually diversify storytelling by changing the storytellers, but also the executives that make the decisions are just becoming more diverse, which is going to really create a a better diversity of programming. And the emergence of streaming

[23:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1382) has helped everyone because it opens it up. It just opens it up. I I remember being, you know, uh um when I was first dating Amy, my ex-wife, and and then when we were married, and people would talk, you know, there was that whole thing. It used to be like, you know, like, well, there was always that argument like women aren't as funny. And I was like, not as funny. The funniest people I know are women. Women. I know. Amy and Tina and Maya and Rachel D. I'm like, are you for real? They're the funniest people, period. And you and the fact that there was even a debate was so absurd.

[23:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1418) Yeah. It's although although it should be noted, one time I did an interview and they said, "What's it like being married \[clears throat\] to the funniest person in America?" And I said, "You'd have to ask my wife."

[23:47](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1427) So, I think you guys got divorced three days later. Are you guys still married? It

[23:52](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1432) was pretty close. Are you excited about Kla Harris? Oh gosh, y'all. Your interview with her was so well timed.

[24:02](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1442) Oh, I know. How lucky was that? Was that crazy? Crazy. Yeah, that's we were chasing it for a little while and then the fact that she said, you know, she picked the date and we were like, she must know that she's picking a date the week that he's going to make his pick.

[24:18](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1458) She called us like the week before and was like, "We got to go now." And at that point, we were like, "Uhoh, this this is happening, y'all." Like,

[24:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1464) yes, something's happening. Oh my god. You all raced to the microphones. It it was so good. It was so good. And

[24:30](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1470) oh, thank you. It's It means so much, you know, um that she just represents so much to women out there, little girls, little girls, black and brown girls all over this country now know that

[24:41](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1481) anything is possible and it's so important. You know, God, we'd be so lucky. We'd be so lucky to have her as vice president and then hopefully president. She's incredible.

[24:50](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1490) Anybody who dedicates their life to public service like that is just really remarkable. And I'm also fascinated about her husband, Doug. I want to learn. Yeah, Doug's amazing.

[25:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1500) I want to follow Doug for the next 12 years. I want to see what's going on with him.

[25:05](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1505) My husband's friends with Doug. He really likes Doug. Really? Oh, really? We talked to him for a minute at the start.

[25:10](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1510) Yeah, he was hilarious. He was so cool. He was setting up her computer. He was doing all the tech stuff, right, for the

[25:15](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1515) He's the greatest guy. He was super funny. And they have great kids. Yeah. And we said, "What's it like?" He said, "I Jason said, "The vetting process just must be pretty intense." And he just he just whispered. He goes, "You have no idea."

[25:27](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1527) Yeah. He looked h straight into the camera. It was the only time he did it. Yeah.

[25:33](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1533) Can you even imagine? Would y'all ever want to run for office? I know y'all asked that on the show, but I wonder.

[25:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1538) I mean, these guys said that I could never be the prime minister of Canada, which I took great umbrage with.

[25:44](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1544) Yeah. I think with your dual citizenship, you've kind of screwed yourself out of both.

[25:47](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1547) I'm screwed out of both. Yeah. Reys, what about you? because you already act like I was going to say you're president of so many companies, you know what I mean? You you have that about you. You have that intelligence and charm and like ability and all of those things that are needed and people look up to you and they listen to you because you are an influencer.

[26:05](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1565) Oh, thanks for saying that. I uh I Yeah, I think you'd get a lot of the vote. You'd be a senator like this,

[26:12](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1572) right? Yeah, I I mean it. I mean it. You should do it. Yeah. I mean, our standards have become very low in this country. Sunonny Bono was one of our congressmen.

[26:22](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1582) Yeah. Wait, wait, wait a second. We don't have to say that the bar is low for re.

[26:25](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1585) No, I mean, I'm just saying it's like, you know, come on. Like, yeah, you'd be great.

[26:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1589) If you ever get bored of killing it uh in this industry, I love what we do. I feel so lucky to do with this. I feel like

[26:36](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1596) So, you would you would never want to do that? I mean, I wouldn't say never because I don't know where I'm going to be when I'm

[26:42](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1602) Yeah. you know, 65. The thing that's seductive about the whole notion of running for politics for anybody, I'm sure, is you look at some of these problems and you just think the answer is so simple.

[26:53](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1613) Well, I think we need better representation and balance, too. I mean, we're women are 50% of the population, but we're not 50% of the representation in government, which is bizarre, particularly when they're adjudicating over our bodies. and and and the lack of representation of people of color who make up a large almost majority of this country. It's a true

[27:17](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1637) what about balance, you know, just yin and yang, male, female balance. I love all the countries that have handled co well are all run by women.

[27:25](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1645) Run by women. So like, you know, there full stop. That's all you need to say. Well, I think women have a different relationship to power.

[27:33](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1653) I mean Oh, that's interesting. Yeah. Yeah. That's interesting. my company has, you know,

[27:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1658) it's all women, right? No, there's men there, too. Um, yeah. And, uh, get them out of there.

[27:47](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1667) Come join us. Um, but it's interesting how no one needs to be the number one. We sort of pass a baton almost, you know, it's always kind of deferring power or sharing responsibility. So, it's almost this power balance and that there's no one person sort of dictating or mandating exactly what's going to happen. It's like collective ideas. Um, and it works really well for um they're actually someone's doing a case study at it at a at one of the big business schools.

[28:17](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1697) What about about the about the uh about our company Hello Sunshine got Hello Sunshine. Yeah.

[28:22](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1702) You know, and so we've got to change the way and what you're talking about is changing the way changing our perspective on how we look at things and how

[28:30](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1710) Well, yeah. And just listen. Yeah. Just listen. Yeah. Sean. Jesus. What? What? What' you say?

[28:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1718) Reys, how are you managing uh your kids during this pandemic? Are you like you are you pulling your hair out trying to keep them from having playdates with a family that might not be as isolated as you guys? I mean, I I'm asking cuz I'm dealing with it myself and I know you're a great mom and so

[28:58](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1738) I love your sweet girls. But your decisions as a parent are probably better than mine. So I want to know what you're doing.

[29:03](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1743) I don't know about that. But um I think the hardest piece is I have a daughter in college, right? So I have a daughter in college and I have a teenage son who's 16 going to be 17.

[29:12](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1752) And you know it's it's easy to keep my sevenyear-old at home. But I think a big piece of um being a person that age is social development. I mean,

[29:22](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1762) yeah, the depression that happened at the beginning of this pandemic between the two of them, not being able to see anybody and

[29:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1769) and just, you know, trusting my daughter is back at college, you know, and she has she but I trust her implicitly, but we talk very frequently. We check in and we

[29:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1778) they have classes. She's in class. She's not in classes, but she has small study groups here and there. And um

[29:45](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1785) that's just it's terrifying to me, guys. Like I don't know. And I miss her like crazy, but I just keep checking in with her like, you know, you got to do this. I know I'm going to sound like a broken record, but don't do this, don't do that.

[29:58](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1798) The seven-year-old, that's cuz I've got an 8-year-old and a 13-year-old. The and the 8-year-old, I would love to figure out how to get into some sort of like I want almost like look online for like clean playgroups, you know? Like I'm like shopping for friends for a situation where she can get that social interaction because

[30:17](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1817) Well, we're doing a pod. We're doing a school pod with like six other families and we're starting next week when we get back and yeah, everybody's clean. Everybody's been vetted

[30:27](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1827) and they take their temperature and I test everybody myself. I take I I test everybody and I tent them all myself and I keep them locked in my garage. And um but it's great. And then the kids now they can go over and they can get their learning from school. And we have we hired this friend's sister who's an out of work teacher to come and be to help them. And because the first part of the pandemic the kids were like you said they were going crazy. They couldn't see their friends and they also didn't want they had me or their mom both of us were like over their shoulders and they're like h like they didn't want to take direction of school work from us. Oh, by the way, well, like also no one's talking about this, which is families that are divorced.

[31:09](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1869) Yeah. Like this is really stressful. Really stressful. And if you don't have a good relationship with your exartner, it is I mean I know people who are losing their minds over fighting on top of fighting and it's really really stressful

[31:25](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1885) and stressful on the kids so much and and on and on on them too. There's a big there are so many mental health implications here. We're really lucky that we bubbled up together and we're good friends and we live on the same street and all that kind of stuff. But there are a lot of people it's that's not the case and it's going to be a while before we really start seeing um what sort of effect this has had on families like you said.

[31:46](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1906) Absolutely. I try to share a lot of resources on Instagram for parents like Childmind Institute in New York does some online services that's really great. There's a lot of great sources and you know hopefully you can look to people who are sharing stuff.

[32:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1920) Yeah, that's awesome. So Reys, now you did a Friends arc, did you not? Where you were in front of an audience? Would you ever do a sitcom in front of a live audience?

[32:09](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1929) It scared the living crap out of me. Really? Really? No rush? No fun rush? No. I was terrified. And thank God.

[32:17](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1937) What about theater? Have you you've never done theater? No. I know. Too scary. What about Saturday Night Live?

[32:22](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1942) You did Saturday Night Live right after 911? I did. I done Saturday Night Live twice. I was the first person after 911.

[32:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1949) Poor taste. Poor taste. It's too soon. Too soon. Lauren was like, "We have to do this. America needs

[32:34](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1954) No, you're going to do it. America wants to laugh. Really is going to do it. I'm not I'm not doing it." No, you're doing it, man. You're doing it. Why are you in my bedroom? You're doing it.

[32:45](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1965) Bill was trying to imitate Lauren Michaels, the head of Saturday Night Live. But can I tell y'all Saturday Night Live is the scariest thing I've ever done. It's the scariest job I've ever done that I haven't paid for.

[32:54](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1974) That was Amy. That was Amy's first show. It was Amy's first show. Yeah, I know. And she and I

[33:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1980) I was there. You were great. You were there? Of course. Oh, I was so bad. Will, you're so terrible.

[33:06](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1986) No, you were great. You were great. Nervous. You were fantastic. Oh my god. That was great.

[33:09](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1989) You know how some people just nail SNL? A lot of people don't. It just wasn't me.

[33:14](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=1994) There was a lot of pressure. Like you said, there was a lot of pressure. Everybody was watching. It was incredibly well viewed. And you know, there was so much pressure in that moment. And you did great. Are you kidding? Come on.

[33:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2004) Great. You're kidding. But somebody should talk about like that. I thought that for a year special was cool. How people talked about what those feelings are like. Like

[33:32](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2012) I \[gasps\] loved it. It's terrifying. Don't you think it was scary? So you would not do a sitcom because you think it would be too frightening every week, week after week.

[33:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2018) I'm too scared. I think you would love it. I think you had fun. Well, now look after you already taken over the world because is there anything left you want to tackle?

[33:50](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2030) Yes. I would love to have a bookstore. Are you serious? and then sell tiny tiny tiny tiny little arteisal chocolates.

[33:58](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2038) Oh Jesus. We'll be right back after these messages. Can I talk with We're talking with Martha Stewart.

[34:04](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2044) Can you get the number for your therapist real quick? Cuz I think we might have an emergency situation.

[34:09](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2049) So tiny chocolates at a bookstore. Yes. What do you think that having a bookstore would be the best way to attract a chocolate

[34:19](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2059) lover uh connoisseur? Yeah. somebody who's in the market to buy chocolate. You're going to

[34:24](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2064) Oh. Oh, I have another dream. You guys are going to like this one. Okay. Okay. This is my retirement plan.

[34:29](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2069) Mhm. \[clears throat\] I am going to become a farmer and I'm only going to plant peaches and call it Reese's Peaches.

[34:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2078) I'm on board. I'm kind of on board with that. Reese's Peaches cuz you can't be sad on a peach farm.

[34:45](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2085) No, you can't. I probably could. I love a peach salad in the summer. How good is a pizza?

[34:51](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2091) I mean, who doesn't like peaches? Who doesn't like peaches? No, I love it. Maybe you could sell the peaches at the bookstore with the chocolate.

[34:56](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2096) Oh, now you're talking. You know what I'm saying? Diversify. The chocolates will be at the at the counter as people are buying their books.

[35:04](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2104) You can get the chocolates anywhere. Okay, relax. I'll send you a box. I'll send you the chocolates. Don't worry about I just like making tiny chocolates. I think it's really fun.

[35:14](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2114) Wait, you also cook like crazy? I'm not a great cook, but I can cook. Okay, because here's here's my image of Reese Witherspoon.

[35:23](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2123) You wake up and you don't stop moving until you go to sleep at night. I bet there's a bunch of little yellow birds in your bedroom, though, too, when you wake up, right? Some blue ones.

[35:34](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2134) The energy of a of a squirrel who drank coffee is me all day. And I'll bet you never got a B in school, right?

[35:42](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2142) Not a lot. Never. God, you're the best. I I fa I failed though. I got I only got a straight F.

[35:48](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2148) What? in calculus. Oh wow. Who needs that? I never got that high. I I think I made it to algebra 2

[35:55](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2155) and now my kid is in second grade. I can't do the math that he's doing. I can't do it.

[36:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2160) It's tough, isn't it? It's tough for Will, too. It's really It is tough. I went I went to a math I went to a they had like a math symposium for in when Archie was in fourth grade to talk about how they were redoing the math and I was like, I gotta go with a bunch of other parents. And I kept sticking my hand up. I'm like, wait,

[36:17](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2177) Singapore math. It was I don't know. It was tough, man. It sounds amazing. Reese, um, look at Fine Lady. Thank you for being here today. I'm so happy for everything that you've accomplished in your life. You make us all feel lazy

[36:32](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2192) and I hope you're getting everything your heart desires because you deserve everything.

[36:36](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2196) Sean, you're not lazy. Sean also has the energy of a squirrel who just drank coffee

[36:41](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2201) but then ate two pints of ice cream and sat on the couch. So, we took it all down.

[36:46](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2206) That's me. I need a I need a sugar nap. Yeah. Um, that was I think that was the fastest hour I have felt. Yeah, I know. That was really fast.

[36:53](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2213) You're amazing, Reese. Well, I love you all. I'm just such a huge fan of all of you. I've gotten to work with most of you. Sean, I know

[37:01](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2221) it's got to happen. We just love each other from afar. Yeah. Do a sitcom together.

[37:05](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2225) Yeah, I'll put me in. Put me in, coach. Convince her to do a sitcom with you. I will be all over that.

[37:10](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2230) Reese, you have honored us with your presence. You're fantastic and interesting and cool and all of the above. And thank you for coming and joining us, idiots.

[37:19](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2239) We really appreciate. Thank you, Ree. Say hi to Jim. I will do. Okay. Bye y'all.

[37:23](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2243) Bye. See you. That is such a special lady. Yeah, really is. I I Doesn't she make you feel like, God, I've done nothing?

[37:34](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2254) I know. I And I don't think I've ever been that happy or energetic or ready to take on the day. You've definitely never been that energetic and your face has never been that happy for sure.

[37:47](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2267) I mean, I felt that happy. I just haven't told my face yet. Never told your face that. Yeah.

[37:51](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2271) But but she is like it it is it's amazing how many different things she's doing at once at all times. There are very few people and doing and do it at such a high level.

[38:03](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2283) Yeah. She's got the mightest touch. It's it's unbelievable. And whether it's movies or like multiple television programs that are kind of seemingly running one into the next on HBO or on Apple Plus and like frankly it's it's kind of uh awe inspiring, you know? It's pretty you're like, "Wow."

[38:19](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2299) And it inspires it inspires me to to to work harder. I hope so. I I was hoping that something would finally inspire you, Sean. Me, too.

[38:27](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2307) Jesus Christ. One more day at this rate. I mean, it's unreal. You wear an R2-D2 t-shirt and you just the signals that you're sending is just don't hire me is why all that

[38:39](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2319) can this is help me help not help me Obi-Wan, help me anybody. You're my only hope.

[38:45](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2325) I'm not feeling the force. Help me any just change my circumstances. I'm doing a Miss Universe project too. There's a script. I'm doing it with your dad.

[38:55](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2335) Oh, we couldn't even get that one out. Please, please finish it. Finish it. Will

[39:00](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2340) come. I couldn't finish it. I couldn't. You I couldn't. I was going to do it the last time that you did that to us. You drugged your dad leaving a few times mid-con conversation, \[clears throat\] which is so rude.

[39:12](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2352) I love it. And the guest is always like, "Jesus, Sean." Okay, guys. Thank you for being such great hosts with my guest today, Reese Witherspoon. She was great.

[39:23](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2363) Sean, what a great Truly was the fastest hour I have. It was It was great. She was great. Okay, bye.

[39:30](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2370) No, wait a second. Where are you going? Not yet. Why are you leaving so quickly?

[39:33](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2373) What do you got something you got to do today? Listen, Sean, let me just say a couple of things first.

[39:38](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/re-release-reese-witherspoon/transcript?t=2378) Yeah. \[singing\] Smart. Last smart glass.

## Questions about this episode

### Who speaks in ""RE-RELEASE: Reese Witherspoon""?

Will Arnett (Host), Jason Bateman (Host), Sean Hayes (Host), Reese Witherspoon (Guest).

### What is ""RE-RELEASE: Reese Witherspoon"" about?

Reese Witherspoon is discussed in a casual, humorous chat where the hosts riff on guest surprises, running jokes, and light banter about pop culture, snacks, and everyday life behind the scenes of their show. The segment highlights their dynamic, humorous interactions and ongoing inside jokes rather than focusing on a singular topic.

### What is mentioned in this SmartLess episode?

60 people, works and ideas are mentioned, including Reese Witherspoon, Sean Hayes, Smartless, Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, Hello Sunshine. Each one on this page links to its own page with every episode that mentions it.

### How long is ""RE-RELEASE: Reese Witherspoon""?

The episode runs 40 min; the transcript is about 8,715 words in 242 timestamped sections.

## More from SmartLess

- [All analyzed episodes](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless)
- [Books mentioned on SmartLess](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/books)
- [People mentioned on SmartLess](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/guests)
- [Sponsors mentioned on SmartLess](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/sponsors)
- [Topics mentioned on SmartLess](https://reclip.me/podcast/smartless/topics)

About this transcript: the episode's spoken words as captioned on YouTube, split into timestamped sections. Reclip.Me locates every person, work and idea in the text, keeps the time it is first named, and quotes the words around it verbatim. Last updated November 5, 2026.