WTF with Marc Maron – Episode 1660: Leanne Morgan

Release Date: July 14, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 1660 of the WTF with Marc Maron podcast, host Marc Maron sits down with the versatile comedian, actress, and author, Leanne Morgan. Known for her relatable humor and heartfelt storytelling, Leanne shares her journey into comedy, the challenges she faced, and her recent success with a Netflix-produced sitcom.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Leanne Morgan opens up about her upbringing in a farming family in Middle Tennessee, delving into the legacy of tobacco farming that shaped her early years.

Leanne Morgan [19:02]: "For generations on both sides, back were farming people in that area that is known for dark fire tobacco."

Growing up immersed in the tobacco industry, Leanne recounts how her family's meat processing plant provided financial stability, allowing her and her sister to pursue higher education.

Leanne Morgan [21:34]: "My family worked in that, and we did everybody's hogs, beef and grass-fed all that like you have now."

Transition to Comedy

Despite a background steeped in agriculture and business, Leanne always harbored dreams of entering the entertainment industry. Her initial foray into comedy came later in life, pivoting from corporate endeavors to stand-up.

Leanne Morgan [35:08]: "From the time I was like, nine or ten, I thought, I'm going to Hollywood. I mean, I'm going to be in show business."

Her early attempts involved performing at the Comedy Store and open mics, but balancing motherhood and career posed significant challenges.

Challenges in the Comedy Industry

Leanne discusses the hurdles she faced as a mother trying to break into the predominantly male and youth-oriented comedy scene. Development deals with major networks fell through, leaving her feeling marginalized.

Leanne Morgan [45:57]: "They had a success with that. But he's like, let's give it a whirl. So we, yeah, they ordered 16 episodes. No pilot, nothing. I mean, like, we went straight to."

Despite these setbacks, Leanne remained resilient, continuing to perform in smaller venues and honing her craft through unique platforms like jewelry parties, which inadvertently served as impromptu comedy clubs.

Breakthrough and Viral Success

Leanne's breakthrough came unexpectedly through online platforms. In 2017, she released a special via Dry Bar, which initially garnered limited attention. However, a viral clip in 2019 shifted her career trajectory dramatically.

Leanne Morgan [57:05]: "They put it out, it gets like 50 million views on YouTube."

The viral success resonated with a broader audience, particularly middle-aged women who found her humor relatable and refreshing. This newfound popularity led to sold-out tours and a significant increase in her fanbase.

Netflix Sitcom and Current Projects

Leanne's continued success culminated in the creation of her own sitcom, produced by Chuck Lorre and available on Netflix. The show, titled "Leanne Prince," debuted on July 31st, 2025, and received positive feedback for its heartfelt storytelling and solid comedic writing.

Leanne Morgan [66:16]: "I have got something going. And I did a movie with Reese Witherspoon."

The sitcom features a blend of traditional multi-camera setups with modern storytelling, aiming to capture the essence of classic sitcoms while appealing to contemporary audiences.

Personal Life and Family Support

Throughout her career journey, Leanne emphasizes the pivotal role her family, particularly her husband Chuck Morgan, played in supporting her ambitions. Balancing family life with professional aspirations has been a cornerstone of her success.

Leanne Morgan [64:22]: "He's a very practical. I would have been out here doing God knows what, but keeping me there in the middle of the United States helped me develop this."

Leanne also touches on the dynamics of her relationships within the industry, highlighting interactions with notable figures like David Lee Roth and Reese Witherspoon, who have supported her endeavors.

Insights and Reflections

Leanne reflects on the evolving landscape of comedy and the importance of finding one's unique voice. She discusses how social media and online platforms have democratized exposure, allowing comedians outside the traditional circuits to find their audience.

Leanne Morgan [58:59]: "I found these young guys, and that was crazy. These young guys that worked out of Dallas, Texas, and they understood my voice."

Her experiences underscore the value of authenticity and persistence, encouraging aspiring comedians to stay true to their narratives despite industry obstacles.

Conclusion

In a candid and engaging conversation, Leanne Morgan shares her inspirational journey from a rural upbringing to becoming a celebrated comedian and Netflix star. Her story is a testament to resilience, the power of authentic storytelling, and the evolving avenues for comedians to connect with their audience.

Marc Maron [72:57]: "It's amazing that you had, like, you were ready. Who knows how it's going to happen. I mean, I didn't think I was gonna do. It wasn't looking good, you know."

Leanne's success serves as a beacon for many, illustrating that it's never too late to pursue one's passion and make a meaningful impact.

Notable Quotes:

• Marc Maron [46:26]: "But what about, like, were you part of the regional circuit? You know, like in."

• Leanne Morgan [35:25]: "He thought was very morbid and didn't enjoy it. But I love to see where Bugsy Siegel was shot."

• Leanne Morgan [57:05]: "They put it out, it gets like 50 million views on YouTube."

• Marc Maron [72:21]: "So you lived there for a while?"

• Leanne Morgan [35:08]: "From the time I was like, nine or ten, I thought, I'm going to Hollywood."

Leanne Morgan's episode on WTF with Marc Maron offers a profound look into the life of a comedian who defied expectations and carved out her niche through perseverance and authenticity. Her story is an inspiring narrative for anyone striving to realize their dreams against the odds.