WTF with Marc Maron Podcast

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. 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. 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.

Mo Amer, a Palestinian-American comedian and actor known for his Netflix series "Mo," shares his journey from a young immigrant to a successful comic. He reflects on Houston's vibrant culture and comedy scene, revealing how he honors his heritage through storytelling. The conversation dives into the complexities of identity amidst geopolitical conflicts, emphasizing cultural representation. Mo also discusses the personal impact of comedy, the significance of mentorship, and his experiences connecting with diverse audiences.

Brady Corbet, acclaimed filmmaker known for works like The Brutalist, shares his transformative shift from acting to directing. He dives into the intense eight-year journey behind his latest film, exploring themes of the male ego and the creative process. Corbet also candidly discusses the financial hurdles of independent filmmaking, balancing collaboration with personal vision, and the emotional toll of the industry. Their conversation uncovers the complexities of artistic expression amidst modern cultural expectations.

In this engaging conversation, James Mangold, a versatile film director known for hits like Walk the Line and Ford v Ferrari, explores the nuances of filmmaking through the lens of the American Western. He discusses how A Complete Unknown reflects Western themes and the significance of camera placement. Mangold also delves into the challenges of directing, emphasizing collaboration and capturing intimacy in performances. He shares insights on navigating fame's isolating effects and the complexity of portraying iconic figures like Bob Dylan.