WTF with Marc Maron Podcast

Jesse David Fox discusses the role of comedy, standup as an art form, the melding of comedy with tragedy, and Maria Bamford as their favorite comedian. They also explore the impact and evolution of comedy, the influence of Mark Meiran's book, the power of comedy in dealing with grief and fear, the importance of vulnerability in comedy, the importance of elevating comedy as an art form, and the significance of taking people seriously. They also briefly mention reading habits, upcoming comedy shows, and the availability of new Brian Jones cat mugs.

Comedy legend Albert Brooks talks about his early days in radio, television variety shows, standup comedy, and writing gigs. He shares stories about Jack Benny, Garry Shandling, George Burns, Paul Lynde, and his mom. They also discuss the influence of radio, the challenges of performing and filmmaking, and the importance of presenting something authentic in acting. A notable mention is the use of British head mics and wrap around mics in TED talks.

Marc Maron welcomes Elliott Caine, a jazz trumpeter and optometrist, to discuss his parallel tracks in life. They explore the choices between stability and passion, reflect on family dynamics during Thanksgiving, and delve into their musical upbringings, including experiences with discrimination and political involvement. The chapter also touches on the challenges faced as a musician and the impact of 1988 in rap and hip-hop.

Taika Waititi, filmmaker and actor, discusses the core of grief in all of his films and shows, including Thor movies, JoJo Rabbit, and What We Do in the Shadows. They also talk about the importance of balancing comedy and emotional depth in movies and explore the childlike portrayal of Nazis in Jojo Rabbit.

Fisher Stevens, actor and documentary filmmaker, talks about landing in director's jail, making docs, working with the United Nations, and his role on Succession. He discusses his different approach to making the Beckham docuseries for Netflix. From his career in theater to working with Matt Dillon, their conversation covers movies, environmental frustrations, and navigating a corporate TV environment. The chapter also includes casual conversation, ad segments and jokes.

Chef José Andrés discusses his founding of World Central Kitchen, providing food relief in disaster areas and war zones. They explore the impact of his work, the chaos of restaurants preparing him for relief work, and the growth of his organization in terms of meals served and volunteers involved.

Laraaji, a musician known for his experimentation with instruments and collaboration with Brian Eno, talks with Marc about his lifelong experimentation with instruments, collaboration with Brian Eno, and his ongoing practice of laughter meditation. They also discuss his musical beginnings, the power of songs in bondage, manifesting and the power of language, the story behind his name change, the connection between laughter and meditation, and a discussion about the movie 'The Wolf of Wall Street'.

John Wilson, filmmaker, discusses his lifelong fascination with film and the creation of his show, How To with John Wilson. They explore the art of documentary filmmaking, the influence of street photographers, and the visual poetry of montage. Wilson reflects on his early exposure to art and photography, the process of creating authentic characters, and using humor as a coping mechanism. They also touch on the Titanic conspiracy theory, police work fabrications, and the battle between free speech and censorship in comedy.

Lou Adler, accomplished music industry career and producer of hit songs, albums, and films, talks about The Roxy's 50th anniversary, his early days in the music industry, the music scene in LA in the 1960s, directing films like 'Up in Smoke,' and working with talented songwriters. They also discuss famous comedians who performed at the Roxy and Comedy Store.

Dan Soder, a stand-up comedian known for The Bonfire and Billions, talks with Mark Maron about their past struggles in radio, losing loved ones, and finding solace in pro wrestling. They also explore the impact of people pleasing on their comedy careers and share personal anecdotes about family and early comedy experiences.