Marc Maron reflects on ending his iconic podcast with heartfelt advice from Barack Obama on embracing change and finding new purpose after closing a major life chapter.
Barack Obama joined Marc Maron for the last episode of the iconic “WTF with Marc Maron” podcast, also known as WTFpod, which aired on Monday, October 13. In their deep and honest conversation, Obama offered Maron advice on moving on and handling significant life changes, drawing from his own experience of stepping down from the presidency in 2017.
Photo credit: Official White House Photo by Pete Souza, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
“You still have a few chapters to go,” Obama said to Maron, his tone reflecting the wisdom of someone who’s navigated similar transitions. “Before I left office, someone shared valuable advice with me: ‘Don’t rush to figure out the next step. Take a moment to pause.’ Reflect on your journey and think, ‘Maybe I didn’t achieve everything I aimed for or execute it all perfectly, but I can be proud of the work I’ve done.'”
Obama urged Maron to “pat yourself on the back for a second” and then allow yourself to “be a little braindead for a while.” He mentioned spending time catching up on books after leaving the presidency, joking, “I had a big deficit with my wife that I had to kind of work my way out of.” This glimpse into his personal life after leaving office revealed the importance of human connection and rebuilding relationships. Obama shared that he and Michelle “went on a lot of trips, hung out, had nice dinners, and slept in,” emphasizing the value of reconnecting with family after demanding professional roles came to an end.
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After taking time to rest and reflect, Obama explained the next step in moving on: “Ask yourself, ‘What’s my next, highest, and best use? What’s a new purpose that scratches that itch?’ It may not come to you right away.” He stressed the importance of patience when searching for your next calling, advising Maron to “take your time — unless you’ve got some bills to pay.” This blend of practical wisdom and deeper reflection resonated with Maron and the audience, underscoring the common struggle to find new meaning after closing a significant chapter in life.
Marc Maron, comedian, at the 2025 South by Southwest festival.
Bea Phi, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Marc Maron started “WTF” back in 2009, recording from his Los Angeles garage studio. Over the years, it has been recognized as one of the most impactful and original podcasts ever made. Maron’s unique interviewing style, characterized by authenticity and vulnerability, has drawn out fascinating conversations with big names like Paul McCartney and Bruce Springsteen. A standout moment in WTFpod history came in 2015 when Obama, still serving as president, joined for a conversation that boosted the podcast’s reputation and demonstrated how podcasts could facilitate important discussions with global leaders.
Maron’s success inspired many comedians to start their own long-form interview podcasts. Shows like “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” and Amy Poehler’s “Good Hang” highlight how Maron’s groundbreaking approach has influenced the podcast world, particularly in the realm of standup comedy and political commentary.
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In June, Maron announced the end of “WTF,” saying, “It comes down to the fact that we have put up a new show every Monday and Thursday for almost 16 years, and we’re tired. We’re burnt out. And we are satisfied with the work we’ve done.” His decision to conclude the show on his own terms demonstrates the same wisdom Obama once shared about recognizing when to finish one chapter and prepare for another.
During the final episode, Obama praised Maron for his impressive 16-year run in podcasting and expressed feeling “honored” to be the last guest on this influential show. Maron, clearly experiencing a range of emotions, admitted he felt “OK” about ending this significant part of his life and “ready” for a much-needed break. However, he also shared lingering “fear” as he contemplated what was next, voicing the question so many faces during major life transitions: “What do I do now?”
In an emotional part of the discussion, Maron asked Obama whether he had felt the heavy “weight” of leaving his role as president. Obama gave an open and honest answer, explaining that his transition brought unique challenges because President Donald Trump followed him. The stark differences in their leadership styles, core convictions, and values made this process particularly difficult.
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Obama reflected, “A lot of what I represented, a lot of what Michelle and I had tried to project — the values, our thinking about America, our commitment to liberal democracy — my successor seemed to represent the opposite.” He paused before clarifying firmly, “Not seemed. Did.” His response highlighted the personal and political nature of the leadership transition and the importance of standing up for one’s principles.
The penultimate episode of “WTF,” released on October 9, delved deeper into the emotions surrounding the show’s conclusion. Breaking from its usual format, this episode featured no guest. Instead, Maron spoke directly to his audience in a heartfelt, personal manner. He acknowledged that the end of the show might feel like a real “breakup” to longtime listeners who had made it a regular part of their weekly lives.
“I know some of you feel upset,” he said, his voice carrying genuine care for his loyal audience and revealing the weight of his decision. “I feel upset too. This is a huge shift for me, but sometimes moving forward is necessary. I understand you didn’t get a say in this, and I’m sorry for that. But that’s just how breakups like this work.” His words embodied the honesty and openness that had defined the show throughout its remarkable journey.
As “WTF with Marc Maron” concludes its run, it leaves behind a legacy of authentic human interaction, thought-provoking conversations, and a reminder that character matters. Obama’s parting advice to Maron and the listeners emphasized the importance of integrity, unity, and maintaining a moral compass in the face of change. The final episode served not just as a farewell to a beloved podcast, but as a testament to the power of human connection and the enduring value of meaningful dialogue in our increasingly divided world.
Source:
Brendan Morrow (October 13, 2025). Barack Obama gives Marc Maron advice on finding ‘new purpose’ in final ‘WTF’ podcast. USA Today. https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2025/10/13/barack-obama-marc-maron-final-wtf-podcast/86672011007/
Header Image: Marc Maron, comedian, at the 2025 South by Southwest festival.
Bea Phi, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
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