In a recent podcast interview with talk show host Conan O’Brien, President Joe Biden, 81, delved into a light-hearted conversation about life’s challenges, with a particular focus on O’Brien’s distinctive hair, expressing a desire to trade his own for the talk show host’s renowned mane.
During O’Brien’s visit to the White House for a rare interview on his podcast, “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” the two men explored various hurdles in life that contribute to personal growth. Biden, acknowledging his childhood struggle with a speech impediment, engaged in a candid discussion about the lasting impact of such challenges.
O’Brien, 60, shared his perspective on embracing childhood embarrassments and turning them into strengths. Drawing parallels to his own experiences, he humorously mentioned his “weird hair” as one of those elements.
“I wish I had your hair. I’d trade you right now, if you want,” Biden interjected with a lighthearted laugh.
Playfully bantering, O’Brien replied, “You want this hair? It comes off. It Velcroes in the back.”
“If I could do it, I would do it,” Biden affirmed.
The exchange continued with O’Brien humorously offering to mail Biden his signature wig.
Biden’s willingness to discuss personal challenges, including his childhood stutter, reflects his ongoing commitment to transparency. In 2011, he wrote an essay for PEOPLE detailing his struggles and the nicknames he endured, such as “Joe Impedimenta,” even in his small boys’ prep school. On the 2020 campaign trail, Biden addressed his stutter during a CNN town hall, emphasizing the societal challenges associated with this particular speech impediment.
“Stuttering, when you think about, is the only handicap that people still laugh about, that still humiliate people about,” Biden remarked during the town hall.
Having overcome his stutter decades ago, Biden’s openness about his personal journey continues to resonate, offering insights into the resilience and strength that can arise from confronting and transcending challenges.
