The comedian closes a 15-year run of conversations with reflections on change and closure
Actor and comedian Marc Maron has concluded his long-running podcast, WTF with Marc Maron, after more than 15 years on air. Episode 1,686, released on Monday, featured former President Barack Obama as the final guest, marking an end that blended humor, introspection, and wisdom.
At the start of the episode, Maron explained that he wanted to speak with someone who could help him reflect on the show’s legacy and offer perspective on how to move forward. Obama, who first appeared on WTF in 2015, hosted this final conversation from his home in Washington, D.C., reversing their previous roles.
Discussing transitions, empathy, and the next chapter
Throughout the hour-long interview, Maron and Obama discussed the state of politics, the influence of social media, and the importance of treating others with decency and respect. Reflecting on his own post-presidency experience, Obama advised Maron to pause before pursuing his next project.
“Don’t rush into what’s next. Take a beat and take some satisfaction,” Obama said. “Pat yourself on the back for a moment.”
Since its debut in 2009, produced alongside Brendan McDonald, WTF became a major platform for in-depth conversations with artists, writers, and comedians, including Robin Williams, Louis C.K., and Lorne Michaels. The podcast earned multiple awards, including Best Comedy Podcast in 2016.
Maron acknowledged that ending the show was a challenging yet necessary decision to preserve its integrity and his own well-being. Known for his openness about personal struggles, he used his final episode to express gratitude to his listeners and reflect on the uncertainty of what comes next — closing one of the most influential chapters in podcasting history.
