WTF with Marc Maron Podcast

Robert Patrick, renowned for his roles in 'Terminator 2' and 'The X-Files,' shares his journey from troubled beginnings as a failed athlete and alcoholic to a celebrated actor. He reflects on the challenges and transformations following his breakout career, discussing the intersection of personal struggles, sobriety, and creative growth. The conversation dives into the meditative joy of motorcycle riding, the importance of political engagement, and the evolving nature of confidence and artistry in performance amidst aging and societal pressures.

In this conversation, Keith Urban, a Grammy-winning country singer and songwriter, shares his journey from being an outsider in Australia to Nashville stardom. He reflects on his unique upbringing in an oddball family and reveals the personal stories behind his eleventh studio album, "High." The discussion dives into the struggles of authenticity in the industry, self-doubt, and the influence of early musical inspirations. Keith also candidly opens up about his path to sobriety and the emotional connections that shape his music.

Robert Zemeckis, the acclaimed director behind classics like Back to the Future and Forrest Gump, shares his insights on filmmaking. He discusses his creative process and the art of blending live-action with animation. Zemeckis reflects on time travel's significance in film and his collaborations with legends like Jerry Lewis and Tom Hanks. His new project, Here, includes innovative techniques and touches on the emotional connection between audiences and storytelling. The conversation delves into the impact of technology on cinema and the irreplaceable human element in filmmaking.

Al Pacino, an iconic actor renowned for his roles in classics like The Godfather, shares his journey from the stage to the silver screen. He reminisces about his Bronx upbringing and the influence of early friendships, particularly with acting mentor Charlie Laughton. The discussion dives into his memorable performances and the transformative 1970s cinema that shaped his artistry. Al emphasizes the importance of authenticity in acting, revealing how personal connections and life experiences have guided his craft.

Joe Boyd, a legendary music producer and founder of a record label, shares insights from his memoir, 'And the Roots of Rhythm Remain.' He discusses pivotal moments in music history, like Dylan going electric and the rise of artists such as Pink Floyd and Nick Drake. Boyd emphasizes music's role in shaping culture and politics, reflecting on his experiences in the industry and the evolution from traditional blues to the British Invasion. He highlights the power of global musical influences and the significance of authenticity in today's music scene.

Langston Kerman, a comedian and former high school teacher with an MFA in poetry, dives into the hilarious and poignant ties between poetry and stand-up. He shares wild stories about taking students to China and reflects on his experiences in Boston's vibrant comedy scene. Langston reveals why John Mulaney directed his Netflix special, 'Bad Poetry,' and explores how his teaching background has influenced his comedic journey. A lively discussion about the challenges of balancing art and performance makes for a captivating listen.

Sebastian Stan, celebrated for his role as Bucky Barnes in the Marvel films, dives deep into the therapeutic power of creativity. He shares his journey from fleeing Romania, influenced by iconic directors like Jonathan Demme, and how portraying complex figures like Jeff Gillooly has uncovered layers of human experience. Sebastian reflects on the unique material that shaped his career, revealing how his performances have resonated with fans during tough times, showcasing the emotional weight and authenticity of his craft.

Connie Chung, a groundbreaking journalist and former co-anchor of CBS Evening News, shares insights from her compelling new memoir. She discusses the challenges of balancing fact and emotion in storytelling. The conversation dives into her experiences covering significant news events and the personal narrative of her family background, including her husband, Maury Povich. Connie also reflects on the evolution of women in political journalism and the emotional complexities of her career, providing a rich tapestry of professional and personal revelations.

Kaitlin Olson, a talented actress famous for her roles in hit TV shows, shares her journey in the entertainment industry. She discusses the joy of wrapping up the first season of her detective series, 'High Potential', while also reminiscing about her time on 'It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.' The conversation dives into her teenage head injury, the importance of therapy, and the comedic struggles of character development. With humor and heart, she reflects on family dynamics and her growth as an artist.

Kathleen Hanna, a trailblazing figure in punk rock and feminism, dives into her life as a riot grrrl pioneer. She reflects on her upbringing in the Pacific Northwest and the vibrant music scene in Olympia. Kathleen shares her experiences fronting Bikini Kill and Le Tigre, discussing the underground movement that empowered women in rock. The conversation touches on the evolving definition of 'selling out' in music and the crucial role of community support for female artists, making for an inspiring and engaging discussion.