WTF with Marc Maron Podcast

Jessica Lange, the award-winning actress known for her powerful roles in film and television, discusses her attraction to dark and complex characters, like Frances Farmer and Blanche DuBois. She shares insights into her latest performance as Lillian Hall, reflecting on themes of grief and loneliness. Lange delves into her globe-trotting career, starting with King Kong and touching on iconic works like Tootsie and American Horror Story. The conversation reveals her passion for emotional depth and the artistic challenges of portraying profound human experiences.

Robby Hoffman, a stand-up comedian and television writer, shares her journey from a large Hasidic Jewish family to making audiences laugh. She discusses the challenges of being publicly outed as a teen and the humor she found in those experiences. Robby also reveals her love for Egg McMuffins and her breakthrough on the children’s show Odd Squad. Her candid anecdotes shed light on identity, family dynamics, and the importance of authenticity in comedy, all delivered with her signature enthusiasm.

Mo Mandel, a stand-up comedian and actor known for his work on Chelsea Lately, shares his comedic journey and new special. He humorously navigates the challenges of balancing success and fatherhood, contemplating self-improvement and his struggles with OCD. Mo also reflects on his transition to sobriety while hosting Barmageddon and dives into colorful anecdotes from his comedic roots in San Francisco, discussing the influence of his upbringing and Jewish heritage on his humor.

Billy Corben, an award-winning documentary filmmaker known for his works like Cocaine Cowboys, shares insights on his artistic journey and Florida's cultural complexities. He discusses the cautionary tale in his latest film, From Russia with Lev, linking it to the Trump Administration and the infamous 'Florida Man.' The conversation dives into political anxieties, the need for voter engagement, and the interplay of beauty and corruption in Florida, all sprinkled with Corben's signature humor.

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.