Wild Card with Rachel Martin
Society & Culture
About
Life’s too short for small talk. Rachel gets right to the questions that matter most. Once a week, famous guests pull questions from a deck of cards and open up about the kind of stuff we all think about but rarely say out loud. Actors, authors, and thinkers are prompted to talk about everything from their insecurities and dreams to grief and God. Named one of the 10 best podcasts of 2024 by The New York Times, Wild Card stands out among celebrity interview podcasts. When modern life feels chaotic or overwhelming, listen to Wild Card for a joyful, grounding reminder of o...
Episodes
- Anne Lamott
Anne Lamott speaks with Rachel Martin about her journey as a writer and how she feels called to teach others. She also discusses her new book, "Good Writing," co-written with Neal Allen.
- Amy Grant
Amy Grant joins Rachel Martin to discuss her new album, "The Me That Remains," and how her recent life experiences, including several medical emergencies, influenced her songwriting. She explains why she felt compelled to share this phase…
- Lena Dunham
Lena Dunham speaks with Rachel Martin about her journey through stardom, chronic illness, and the themes explored in her book, "Famesick." She reflects on reconnecting with her childhood self after years of detachment.
- Bob Odenkirk
Bob Odenkirk, known for roles in "Better Call Saul" and "Normal," reflects on his career evolution from sketch comedian to action hero. He shares his gratitude for his journey, starting from his Illinois roots.
- Tim Blake Nelson
Tim Blake Nelson joins Rachel Martin to discuss his acting career, including his roles in "O Brother, Where Art Art Thou" and "Watchmen." He also talks about his novel, "Superhero: A Novel," and his early life.
- George Saunders
George Saunders discusses his novel "Vigil," exploring themes of judgment, redemption, and change. He also shares reflections on his career and aspirations.
- Julio Torres
Comedian and filmmaker Julio Torres discusses his creative process, his HBO special "Color Theories," and how his perspective on existential dread and personal style has evolved over time.
- Christina Applegate
Christina Applegate joins the podcast to discuss her memoir, "You With the Sad Eyes." She talks with host Rachel Martin about overcoming life's challenges, her multiple sclerosis, and finding joy in motherhood and television.
- Chris Fleming
Comedian Chris Fleming discusses his approach to comedy, including his HBO special "Live at the Palace," his interest in dance, and his experiences navigating the entertainment industry with host Rachel Martin.
- Lena Waithe (Encore)
Lena Waithe joins host Rachel Martin to discuss her prolific career in television, lessons she learned from The Wizard of Oz, and the challenges of admitting when she is wrong.
- 'Weird Al' Yankovic (Encore)
Weird Al Yankovic discusses his long-standing career in parody, his upcoming “Bigger and Weirder” tour, parenting, and his relationship with his fanbase. He joins host Rachel Martin on Wild Card to reflect on maintaining his popularity ove…
- Dan Harris
Journalist and mindfulness advocate Dan Harris discusses his journey from a self-described self-centered reporter to a happiness expert. He joins host Rachel Martin to explore his philosophy on mindfulness and the concept of being 10% happ…
- Wagner Moura
Actor Wagner Moura joins Rachel Martin to discuss his career, his work in the film The Secret Agent, and his commitment to meaningful projects. They also talk about his perspective on aging, performing onstage, and prioritizing personal jo…
- Melinda French Gates
Melinda French Gates discusses her life transitions, including the end of her marriage, her departure from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and her new focus on women's health. She also addresses forgiveness, trust, and her ex-husband'…
- Oprah
Oprah discusses her personal weight journey, her perspective on GLP-1 medications, and her new book, "Enough." She also shares reflections on her childhood in Mississippi and the influence of mentors Maya Angelou and Sidney Poitier.
- Jennette McCurdy
Jennette McCurdy discusses transitioning from her childhood acting career to writing, and how she navigated abuse and power dynamics in her earlier life. She shares with host Rachel Martin how she has moved past these experiences to find a…
- Tig Notaro
Comedian and filmmaker Tig Notaro discusses the coexistence of humor and grief, her documentary about poet Andrea Gibson, and her childhood in Mississippi with host Rachel Martin.
- Jonathan Goldstein
Jonathan Goldstein, host of the podcast Heavyweight, discusses his process for helping guests find closure and his belief in the human capacity for change with host Rachel Martin.
- John Green (Encore)
Author John Green discusses his diverse projects, his approach to combating despair, and his outlook on the existence of God with host Rachel Martin.
- Ann Patchett (Encore)
Author Ann Patchett joins Rachel Martin to discuss her annotated edition of Bel Canto, her evolving perspectives on God, and her comfort with solitude. They also reflect on her literary career and recent works like The Dutch House.
- Kumail Nanjiani
Kumail Nanjiani discusses his Hulu stand-up special, "Night Thoughts," and his creative approach to processing emotions. He also touches on topics such as overcoming fear and failure, his creative partnership with his wife, Emily, and his…
- Jamie Lee Curtis
Actor Jamie Lee Curtis joins Rachel Martin to discuss her unexpected career in Hollywood, her views on beauty standards, and her passion for writing children's books. She also shares why she originally intended to pursue a career as a poli…
- Mel Robbins
Mel Robbins discusses her past struggles with anxiety and trauma, and her work as an author and podcaster sharing tools for personal improvement. This episode of Wild Card with Rachel Martin explores her journey and the methods she uses to…
- Jason Reynolds (Update)
Author Jason Reynolds discusses the challenges of setting an example for children, the personal value of crying, and advice on rest received from LeVar Burton in this episode of Wild Card. This installment was recognized as one of Apple's…
- Suleika Jaouad
Suleika Jaouad discusses her experiences living with cancer, her creative process described in "The Book of Alchemy," and lessons learned from the people she has lost. She joins host Rachel Martin to explore these personal and creative the…
- Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai discusses her journey of discovering her identity beyond her global recognition and accolades with host Rachel Martin. She also talks about her experience as a college student and her new book, "Finding My Way."
- Padma Lakshmi
Padma Lakshmi joins Rachel Martin to discuss her book, "Padma's All American," exploring food as a way to celebrate America's cultural diversity. The conversation covers life lessons learned from her grandmother and her perspectives on lif…
- Brandi Carlile
Musician Brandi Carlile discusses the creation of her album, “Returning to Myself,” the importance of her collaborators, and balancing different aspects of her identity. She also shares memories of her time spent with Joni Mitchell.
- Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes, the creator of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal, discusses the inspiration behind her writing and her memoir, Year of Yes, with host Rachel Martin. She shares her approach to creative success and the importance of writing without…
- Nick Offerman
Emmy-winning actor Nick Offerman joins Rachel Martin to discuss his work as a woodworker and author, his appreciation for writer Wendell Berry, and his childhood experiences. The conversation also explores the importance of finding satisfa…
- Jeff Hiller
Actor Jeff Hiller discusses his career path, his breakout role as Joel on the HBO series Somebody Somewhere, and how the character's kindness has influenced his own perspective.
- Brené Brown
Researcher and professor Brené Brown discusses her book "Strong Ground," focusing on redefining leadership, the role of mystery and faith, and how vulnerability can foster connection. She joins host Rachel Martin on Wild Card.
- Matthew McConaughey
Actor and author Matthew McConaughey discusses his approach to finding rhythm in his performances and his personal life. He also talks about his book, Poems & Prayers.
- Bobbi Brown doesn’t listen to men in suits about makeup
Makeup artist and business mogul Bobbi Brown discusses her career, competitive spirit, and her upcoming book, "Still Bobbi," on this episode of Wild Card.
- Raphael Bob-Waksberg doesn’t forgive, but he forgets
Raphael Bob-Waksberg, the creator of BoJack Horseman, discusses his approach to animation and storytelling, specifically looking at how he covers complex themes like grief and faith. He also shares insights on his latest Netflix series, Lo…
- Elizabeth Gilbert no longer believes she’s a bad person
Author Elizabeth Gilbert discusses her new book, "All the Way to the River," in which she explores themes of addiction, grief, and self-destructive patterns. She and host Rachel Martin talk about the importance of showing mercy to oneself…
- Ocean Vuong doesn’t erase pain from beauty
Author Ocean Vuong discusses his writing process, his perspective on the craft as a condition, and his desire to eventually stop writing. He also speaks with host Rachel Martin about his book, "The Emperor of Gladness."
- Harrison Ford knows how weird his life is
Harrison Ford discusses his career, his first Emmy nomination for "Shrinking," and his perspective on aging in an interview with Rachel Martin. The conversation also covers a humorous anecdote involving Jay Leno.
- Our favorite Memory Time Machine trips
Host Rachel Martin looks back at some of the best Memory Time Machine moments featured on Wild Card, featuring segments with guests such as David Lynch, Brett Goldstein, Jenny Slate, and Barry Jenkins.
- LeVar Burton is learning to embrace the chaos (encore)
LeVar Burton discusses his iconic roles in Roots, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Reading Rainbow. He speaks with host Rachel Martin about understanding his professional identity, his evolving definition of success, and embracing life'…
- Father James Martin is okay with not being liked
Father James Martin discusses his path to becoming a well-known Catholic priest, his experience appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and his new podcast, The Spiritual Life. He also reflects on his rebellious adolescence and hi…
- Aparna Nancherla doesn't know why she's here
Comedian Aparna Nancherla joins Rachel Martin to discuss her experience with anxiety and depression in her career, as well as her role in the documentary "Anxiety Club." They also touch on themes of rage and the feeling of solitude.
- Congress has voted to eliminate government funding for public media
This episode of Wild Card with Rachel Martin discusses a congressional vote to eliminate government funding for public media and provides information on how to support the service.
- Marc Maron would still like some validation
Marc Maron discusses his approach to vulnerability, his stand-up career, and his decision to end his podcast "WTF" with host Rachel Martin. He also previews his upcoming stand-up special, "Panicked."
- Celine Song is troubled by love
Filmmaker Celine Song discusses the themes of stillness in her work, her approach to slowing down in personal life, and how she finds meaning in daily activities like enjoying a meal. She joins host Rachel Martin to talk about her films Pa…
- Jenny Han insists on hope
Author Jenny Han discusses why she feels connected to her teenage self and explores the significance of writing about love and the feeling of embarrassment. She also talks about the success of her book franchises, To All The Boys and The S…
- Michelle Obama doesn't regret saying 'no'
Michelle Obama discusses focusing on her personal ambitions, learning to decline societal expectations, and launching her podcast with her brother, Craig Robinson. She also shares reflections on her mother's final advice and the importance…
- What Kyle MacLachlan learned from his friend David Lynch
In this bonus episode of Wild Card with Rachel Martin, actor Kyle MacLachlan discusses his career and longtime collaboration with the late director David Lynch, including their work on Dune, Blue Velvet, and Twin Peaks.
- Kyle MacLachlan daydreams about the future
Actor Kyle MacLachlan discusses his career, including his roles in David Lynch films, the series Fallout and Overcompensating, and his social media presence, on this episode of Wild Card with Rachel Martin.
- Jason Reynolds Loves Being a Crybaby
Author Jason Reynolds discusses his approach to writing for young adults, the emotional value of crying, and advice on taking rest. He also talks about his new audio-only book, "Soundtrack," with host Rachel Martin.