Cover Your Hole
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In this episode of 'Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan,' Conan welcomes Philip, a relic hunter and non-denominational preacher from Williamsburg, Virginia, who shares his passion for uncovering historical artifacts using a metal detector. Philip recounts his adventures finding Civil War bullets, Revolutionary War buttons, and a poignant colonial-era posy ring, as well as the thrilling moment he unearthed a live Korean War-era grenade—leading to a dramatic military bomb disposal operation. The conversation takes a humorous turn as Conan playfully teases Philip about his 'cover your hole' mantra, which becomes a running joke and a surprisingly profound life principle. The episode explores themes of history, responsibility, and authenticity, with Philip revealing how his dual life as a firefighter and preacher shapes his values. Conan expresses genuine admiration for Philip’s integrity, humor, and dedication, culminating in a heartfelt exchange about the joy of shared curiosity and the importance of leaving things better than you found them.
Always cover your hole—literally and metaphorically—as a sign of respect and responsibility.
History is not just in museums; it’s alive in the ground, waiting to be discovered with care and research.
Authenticity matters: Philip’s life as a firefighter, preacher, and relic hunter shows how real-world experience deepens spiritual and historical connection.
Humor and vulnerability are powerful tools for connection—Conan and Philip’s banter reveals genuine mutual respect.
The best discoveries often come from curiosity, not just luck, and require patience and preparation.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to the Show: Meet Philip, the Relic Hunter
Conan welcomes Philip, a history-loving relic hunter from Williamsburg, Virginia, praising his immaculate beard and setting the tone for a fun, quirky interview.
The Art of Relic Hunting: From Bullets to Posy Rings
“It was much smaller and probably as she got older, she would wear it as a necklace or a charm and it fell off at some point and laid there for probably 200 years until one day I dug it out of the ground.”
The Live Grenade Incident: A Real-Life Thriller
“They blew it up with their phone. Oh my God. That's not that cool. No, but, no, it is cool.”
The Rules of the Hunt: Research, Etiquette, and 'Cover Your Hole'
“Cover your fucking hole. It's very serious. You know what I mean? Or I'll come over there and cover it for ya, you know what I'm saying?”
From Firefighter to Preacher: A Life of Service
Philip reveals his 20-year career in the fire department and his 13-year journey as a non-denominational preacher, emphasizing authenticity and connection with real people.
“Cover your fucking hole. It's very serious. You know what I mean? Or I'll come over there and cover it for ya, you know what I'm saying?”
“It was much smaller and probably as she got older, she would wear it as a necklace or a charm and it fell off at some point and laid there for probably 200 years until one day I dug it out of the ground.”
“They blew it up with their phone. Oh my God. That's not that cool. No, but, no, it is cool.”
Hosts
Guest
Conan O'Brien
person
Philip
person
Civil War
other
Sonam Ovcesian
person
Williamsburg, Virginia
place
Revolutionary War
other
Matt Gourley
person
Korean War
other
Lincoln
person
C4
other
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