Obsessed: The Podcast Obsessed: The Podcast

Emmy Winner Reveals Why Obama Was 'Concerned' About Him

Sep 17, 2026 · 40m

Summary

Alex Edelman discusses his role in The Paper, the Office spin-off, and his award-winning one-man show Just for Us. He shares a memorable anecdote about meeting Barack Obama, who praised the show’s themes of empathy. Edelman also previews his new Edinburgh Fringe show about working as a hospital clown and reflects on the ongoing existential anxiety of sustaining a creative career despite major accolades.

Topics discussed

Sponsorship: The Mandalorian and Rocket Mortgage The Paper promo and Obama's reaction to Just for Us Introduction of guest Alex Edelman Alex Edelman's Brooks Brothers modeling gig The Paper's connection to The Office universe The state of local journalism and the show's premise Comedy dynamics in open-plan office environments Creating the character Adam: the 'golden retriever' idiot Sponsorship: Ziotics pre-alcohol probiotic drink Transitioning from solo performance to ensemble acting Real-life inspirations for the character Adam Pressure and excitement of joining an Office spin-off The Paper's identity versus The Office legacy Mockumentary camera logic and production techniques Why The Office became a cultural phenomenon Barack Obama's praise for Just for Us and empathy Collaborative creation of Just for Us and humility New show about working as a hospital clown in Edinburgh Millennial anxiety and the insecurity of creative careers The meaning of awards and closing remarks Sponsorship: The Devil Wears Prada 2 and The Paper
Listen ad-free on Castria