Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard Mom's Car: Erick Richardson
Sep 16, 2025
Join ex-lawyer Erick Richardson, a tortoise enthusiast, as he shares his wildly unconventional path to becoming a law firm partner. He recounts making a quirky deal with God on a catamaran and how he stumbled upon a fascination with 11 rare giant tortoises. The trio also dives into the bizarre world of client payments, including a market for a cut-off toe. With humor flowing, they navigate the absurdities of life, touching on moral dilemmas and the joy of unexpected transformations.
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Catamaran Turning Point
- Erick Richardson credits a crisis on a catamaran and a promise to God for his pivot to applying himself academically.
- That turnaround led him from failing grades to attending USC and later law school.
USC Opened Unexpected Doors
- Erick describes joining a small Westwood law firm despite poor grades because he went to USC and had business connections.
- That mentor later enabled Erick to learn to take stock as part of fees and helped grow his firm.
Success While Struggling With Addiction
- Erick admits a severe drug problem during his ascent and that danger and bravado fueled part of the lifestyle.
- He recounts evading arrest and using intermediaries to buy drugs to avoid direct contact with dealers.