WTF with Marc Maron Podcast

Modi Rosenfeld, an Israeli-American comedian renowned for his lively performances, delves into the roots of comedy from a Jewish perspective. He shares how comedy can uplift spirits and bridge divides, tracing its origins back to Talmudic tales. Reflecting on his rise during the pandemic, Modi describes the transformation of his career through Zoom shows. The discussion also touches on the essence of Jewish identity in humor, the evolution of comedy in his experiences, and the role of laughter in healing communities.

Nick Thune, a comedian and musician known for his sharp wit, shares a candid look at his battle with alcoholism and the path to recovery. He opens up about harrowing experiences with blackouts, hospital visits, and the impact on his marriage. Now sober and boasting a new comedy special, Nick reflects on the support that helped him rebuild his life. Their conversation touches on the complexities of addiction, the struggle for personal growth, and the emotional weight of performing in the wake of recovery.

Chris Fleming, a talented comedian and musician known for his character 'Gale', shares his unique journey into comedy. He discusses the influence of his supportive family, especially his mom, on his career. Fleming talks about blending inclusivity with avant-garde humor and using characters to connect with audiences. He reflects on the art of vulnerability in performances and how his personal experiences shape his comedic voice. The conversation also delves into the evolving nature of comedy in the social media landscape.

Jane Marie, a journalist and creator of The Dream, explores the underbelly of the wellness industry, pyramid schemes, and life coaching. She shares her journey from a Michigan internship at This American Life to podcasting fame. The conversation dives into how these topics reflect American society and critiques the often misleading narrative around success in multi-level marketing. With candid insights, Jane discusses the intersection of personal choices, societal expectations, and the importance of empathy in navigating today’s complex landscape.

When Mike Elias wanted to learn the guitar, his dad told him he had to teach himself. Mike took that rule and ran with it for the rest of his life, teaching himself everything from sewing to metal fabrication to fashion design, which he deployed when he founded Ship John Leather and Canvas in Portland, Oregon, and created one of the most sought after garments in the world, the Wills Jacket. Mike tells Marc about growing up oyster fishing and hunting in New Jersey, why he wound up making clothing, and the violent attack that changed his life. Sign up here for WTF+ to get the full show archives and weekly bonus material! https://plus.acast.com/s/wtf-with-marc-maron-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

W. Kamau Bell, a comedian and insightful social commentator, engages with Marc Maron on the challenges of performing comedy amidst a politically charged atmosphere. They discuss the stark contrasts between the current political landscape and the earlier Trump years. Kamau shares his thoughts on balancing civic responsibility with entertainment, reflects on his five-year break from comedy, and reveals the impact of his documentary about Bill Cosby. Their conversation weaves humor with serious social commentary, making for a captivating dialogue.

Prolific singer-songwriter Will Oldham has been able to maintain what Marc calls “a haunting and elated tone” over the course of his career, whether in his collaborations with other artists or under the name Bonnie “Prince” Billy. Will talks with Marc about how his music stems from the example of his artist mother, records checked out of the library, and his Kentucky roots. They also talk about his recent album The Purple Bird as well as Will’s acting career, which launched when he was a teenager and John Sayles cast him in the film Matewan. Sign up here for WTF+ to get the full show archives and weekly bonus material! https://plus.acast.com/s/wtf-with-marc-maron-podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Don Johnson, famed for his iconic role in Miami Vice, shares insights from his journey through fame and personal growth. He recounts wild stories from his days in San Francisco and LA, reflecting on his friendship with Hunter S. Thompson. Johnson candidly discusses the challenges of navigating fame and sobriety, emphasizing the wisdom he’s gained from the women in his life. His current projects and experiences reveal a profound quest for enlightenment and understanding, making for a compelling conversation about life in the spotlight.

Chris Hayes, host of "All In with Chris Hayes" on MSNBC and author of "The Siren's Call," dives into the complexities of our digital lives. He discusses how technology and social media shape our mental health, highlighting addiction parallels and their impact on personal relationships. Hayes explores the intersection of fascism and media, shedding light on empathy in a polarized society. The conversation also touches on the evolution of attention as a commodity and the historical effects of digital advancements on democracy and individual identity.

Carrie Coon, an acclaimed actress known for her roles in 'The Leftovers' and 'White Lotus', dives into her unexpected journey from regional theater in Ohio to Hollywood. She shares fascinating insights about her intense experience filming with David Fincher, the authenticity of acting, and her six-month adventure in Thailand for her latest series. Coon discusses the interplay of personal identity and performance, revealing how her craft shapes her understanding of self and the world around her.