WTF with Marc Maron Podcast

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.

Actress Elizabeth Olsen, known for her iconic role as Scarlet Witch, reveals her whimsical fantasy of being an elderly New Yorker living alone while navigating the complexities of fame. She shares her recent experience becoming a Dead Head for her film 'His Three Daughters' and dives into health topics, discussing veganism, diet dilemmas, and personal health challenges. Their conversation touches on the importance of journaling for self-reflection and the emotional depth of characters in film, all sprinkled with humor and personal anecdotes.

Jason Ritter, son of the beloved John Ritter, shares his journey through the pressures of legacy and identity in the acting world. He opens up about the insecurities that fueled his career and led him to mask his emotions with alcohol. The conversation dives into the challenges of navigating fame, familial expectations, and the quest for genuine connections. Ritter also reflects on the transformative power of sobriety and shares heartfelt anecdotes about his wife, Melanie Lynskey, and his experiences in the industry.

Eric Roberts, an acclaimed actor known for his powerful roles and a career spanning decades, shares insights from his new memoir. He reflects on growing up with narcissistic parents and how that shaped his identity. Eric discusses the emotional dynamics of filmmaking, his favorite role in The Righteous Gemstones, and the importance of camaraderie among actors. He also delves into the complexities of personal growth and the impact of theater on his life, reminiscing about iconic moments and friendships in the industry.

Ali Macofsky, a comedian whose career began with a spontaneous call to Ryan Seacrest at just seven, shares her unique journey in entertainment. She opens up about a chaotic past, including a failed audition for 'Hannah Montana' and her youthful struggles with alcoholism. Ali highlights the spontaneous decisions that shaped her path, from solo trips to comedy clubs to her transformative journey towards sobriety. She candidly reflects on balancing her career with personal challenges, all sprinkled with humor and heartfelt anecdotes.