Marc Maron Concludes 16-Year Podcast Journey with Barack Obama as Final Guest After Nearly 1700 Episodes

Barack Obama returned to Marc Maron’s podcast for its final episode, marking the end of a 16-year journey. This landmark episode concluded a series that accumulated nearly 1,700 episodes since its 2009 debut.
Obama as the Final Guest
Obama originally visited Maron’s Los Angeles garage studio while still in office. For this last episode, he conducted the interview from his Washington office, highlighting his longstanding relationship with “WTF With Marc Maron.”
Podcast Journey
Maron launched “WTF” in 2009 as a platform for candid conversations, starting with fellow comedians. The show evolved into an influential media institution featuring diverse high-profile guests, including Robin Williams and Paul McCartney.
The Final Episode
The concluding episode began with Obama questioning Maron about his feelings regarding the podcast’s end. Maron acknowledged mixed emotions, feeling ready for a break yet uncertain about what comes next.
- Obama offered advice, stating, “You’ve still got a couple of chapters left.”
- Maron discussed the importance of slowing down and reflecting on past achievements.
Farewell and Reflections
Maron avoided overly sentimental discussions in the final episode. Instead, he focused on closing the chapter with gratitude, acknowledging the shared experiences with listeners over the years, from personal losses to global events.
The final moments of the episode were a tribute to Maron’s cherished cats, which had been integral to the program. He concluded with, “Cat angels everywhere,” a heartfelt nod to his beloved pets.
Legacy of “WTF”
“WTF” began with modest aspirations, but Maron, along with producer Brendan McDonald, crafted a platform that extended beyond mere interviews. Known for its fan-composed rock ‘n’ roll theme, the podcast became a staple for listeners seeking genuine dialogue with diverse guests.
With no specific reason other than achieving satisfaction, Maron decided to close this chapter along with McDonald. Despite the end of “WTF,” Maron’s legacy as a podcaster and the indelible mark on the medium remain significant.