WTF with Marc Maron Podcast

Bill Burr, a stand-up comedian and actor famed for his sharp wit, opens up about laying old grievances to rest, including his past tensions with Marc. The conversation meanders through profound themes, like confronting personal anger and childhood sadness. They share insights about aging and the loss of peers, as well as Burr's upcoming Hulu special and Broadway debut in 'Glengarry Glen Ross.' With humorous anecdotes, they tackle the struggles of navigating comedy and emotional growth in an ever-chaotic world.

Mo Welch, a comedian and cartoonist known for her heartfelt documentary 'Dad Jokes,' joins the discussion after recently evacuating her home due to LA fires. She candidly shares her experiences of childhood instability and how reconnecting with her estranged father became a source of inspiration for her comedy. The conversation also touches on the emotional challenges of navigating family dynamics and the role of humor in processing trauma, offering a poignant glimpse into how personal experiences shape artistic expression.

Richard Gadd, an award-winning comedian and writer known for his Netflix series Baby Reindeer, opens up about the interplay of trauma and creativity. He shares how his personal struggles shaped his comedy and the challenges he faced after the success of Baby Reindeer. Richard reflects on the evolution of his comedic style, moving from lighthearted themes to tackling deeper emotional experiences. He also discusses the importance of vulnerability in performance and how his work addresses the impact of trauma and societal stigmas.

Mike Leigh, the acclaimed British film director known for his honest portrayals of working-class life, shares his insights on filmmaking. He discusses the misconceptions around his work and the evolution of his collaborative methods with actors. Leigh reflects on the importance of realism versus naturalism, revealing behind-the-scenes stories from celebrated films like 'Secrets and Lies' and his latest, 'Hard Truths.' The conversation emphasizes the emotional nuances in storytelling and the tragicomic essence that defines his unique cinematic voice.

Adrien Brody, the Oscar-winning actor famed for his roles in The Pianist and Midnight in Paris, shares insights on his newest film, The Brutalist, which draws deeply from his family's immigrant history. He reflects on the whirlwind of winning the Best Actor Oscar at a young age and the emotional toll it took. Additionally, Adrien discusses his joy in collaborating with Wes Anderson, exploring how the camaraderie on set contrasts with the solitary challenges of acting.

Dive into a treasure trove of candid insights as Marc responds to listener questions. He shares thoughts on icons like Adam Sandler and Taylor Swift, while reflecting on his own journey with sobriety and past relapses. Discover humorous anecdotes about household organization, the thrill of unearthing unique finds at Goodwill, and the complexities of change. Marc tackles the nuanced relationship between comedy and authenticity, blending serious topics with lighthearted moments. It's an engaging blend of self-reflection, humor, and intimate storytelling.

Ron Livingston, celebrated for roles in Office Space and Swingers, shares candid stories about his upbringing in Iowa and how the trajectory of his character in Swingers mirrors his own experiences. He discusses the gradual rise of Office Space to classic status and how Sex and the City refined his wardrobe. The two explore the journey through the entertainment scene, touching on the authenticity in portraying sober characters and the importance of community within creativity. It's a relaxed and insightful conversation between two guys with no promotional agenda.

Brendan McDonald, Marc Maron's producer and business partner, joins the conversation to reflect on WTF's journey. They dive deep into the nostalgia of the Luna Lounge and the evolution of comedy venues. Personal struggles with relationships and sobriety reveal poignant life lessons. The duo also discusses navigating the tumultuous world of radio and the changing media landscape. They share how early sponsorship challenges sparked creativity, leading to the podcast's success and their deeper connection with audiences.

Bruce Vilanch, an Emmy-winning writer famed for his work on the Oscars, shares tales from his rich career. He reminisces about writing jokes for comedy legends like Bette Midler and Joan Rivers. The conversation dives into the art of tailoring humor to various voices and the behind-the-scenes drama of iconic TV specials. Vilanch also reflects on his experiences with gay activism and the changing landscape of awards shows, blending humor and insight into the evolution of comedy and entertainment.

In this engaging conversation, Australian filmmaker Justin Kurzel dives into his fascination with outlaws and societal upheaval. He shares insights on his latest film, 'The Order', and the significance of casting Marc in a pivotal role. Justin discusses the challenges of storytelling in film, particularly around complex characters and their real-life inspirations. The dialogue also touches on the dark landscapes of Australian cinema, exploring themes of ambition and the legacy of figures like Ned Kelly. Justin's passion for nuanced narratives shines through.