Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
Armchair Umbrella
Hi, I’m Dax Shepard, and I love talking to people. I am endlessly fascinated by the messiness of being human, and I find people who are vulnerable and honest about their struggles and shortcomings to be incredibly sexy. I invite you to join me as I explore other people’s stories. We will celebrate, above all, the challenges and setbacks that ultimately lead to growth and betterment. What qualifies me for such an endeavor? More than a decade of sobriety, a degree in Anthropology and four years of improv training. I will attempt to discover human “truths” without any laboratory work, clinical trials or data collection. I will be, in the great tradition of 16th-century scientists, an Armchair Expert.
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Jan 30, 2026 • 43min
Armchair Anonymous: Foreign Object in Butt II
Hannah, a general surgery resident who operates on unusual cases, Rachel, an OR tech and PA student with hands-on removal stories, and Kristen, a nursing student who found a modified vibrator in a bike handle, share wild operating-room and clinical tales. They describe bizarre objects discovered on scans and in surgery. Listeners hear vivid, sometimes shocking surgical anecdotes and the realities of care.
39 snips
Jan 28, 2026 • 1h 56min
Ellen Huet (on wellness cults)
Ellen Huet, investigative journalist and author of Empire of Orgasm, digs into OneTaste and the rise of orgasmic meditation. She outlines how a startup pitch turned into deep reporting on sexual control, power dynamics, and manipulative systems. The conversation covers the mechanics of OM, growth tactics, financial pressures, legal outcomes, and why anyone can be vulnerable to indoctrination.
12 snips
Jan 26, 2026 • 1h 54min
Marcello Hernández
Marcello Hernández, a stand-up comedian and actor known for American Boy and SNL work, shares funny and personal stories about growing up in Miami and his family. He talks about finding a new writing process in Spanish. He recalls pivoting from soccer to comedy, viral TikToks that boosted his career, and the wild ride toward SNL.
9 snips
Jan 23, 2026 • 49min
Armchair Anonymous: Pets
Dive into a whirlwind of pet tales that are equal parts hilarious and heart-wrenching. From a childhood horse that brought both joy and chaos to a high-speed chase for a stolen dog, the stories unfold with unexpected twists. Experience the emotional aftermath of a pet injury and the daring measures taken to save a furry friend. Plus, hear confessions about past regrets and the resilience of beloved companions. This chat about pets is filled with laughter, tears, and valuable insights on our furry pals.
Jan 21, 2026 • 2h 22min
Elizabeth Smart
Elizabeth Smart, a renowned child safety advocate and founder of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, shares her harrowing experiences of surviving a 2002 kidnapping. She vividly recounts the night of her abduction, her captors' manipulative tactics disguised as religious doctrine, and the psychological struggles she faced. As a parent now, Elizabeth discusses her evolution in understanding trauma and her determination to empower survivors. Her insights on hope, resilience, and the importance of advocacy are both inspiring and heart-wrenching.
Jan 19, 2026 • 1h 60min
Chris Stapleton
Chris Stapleton, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter known for hits like 'Traveller,' dives deep into his love for silence and its role in songwriting. He shares stories about his upbringing in Kentucky and the pressure of sudden fame, revealing how he prefers meaningful music over deadlines. Chris recounts his journey from college to Nashville, his collaboration experiences, and balancing family life with five kids. He reflects on the impact of his performance with Justin Timberlake, highlighting the serendipity in his career and the importance of surrounding himself with the right team.
12 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 49min
Armchair Anonymous: Wild Card XI
In this wild installment, Jane, a UK caller, shares her harrowing yet humorous tale of falling from an attic ladder just before her daughter's wedding. Despite injuring her leg and requiring emergency care, she makes it to the celebration in a wheelchair, showcasing her indomitable spirit. Dax and Monica dive into her crazy whirlwind of morphine and wedding festivities. Other Armcherries share their own unforgettable stories, adding to the laughter and chaos. It's a charming mix of mishaps and resilience!
40 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 1h 35min
David McWilliams (on the history of money)
David McWilliams, a journalist and economist known for his accessible insights, shares his fascinating view on the history and role of money. He discusses how his upbringing influenced his understanding of economics and critiques the idea that anyone truly controls the economy. David compares money to fire as a transformative technology, explaining its alternatives to violence and its function in fostering trust and specialization in complex societies. He also explores the historical dynamics of credit and its significant implications on civilizations.
28 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 1h 57min
Kumail Nanjiani Returns
Kumail Nanjiani, the talented actor and comedian known for his work in The Big Sick and Eternals, returns to share his insights. He discusses overcoming foot trauma and the absurdity of plastic surgery rumors. Gym culture takes center stage as he humorously claims the Schwarzenegger pump is better than sex and explores male physical intimacy at the gym. Kumail also reflects on the emotional journey of self-acceptance, the comical tension between looking buff and being funny, and the impact of body transformation on societal norms.
28 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 54min
Armchair Anonymous: Party Gone Wrong
In this enlightening conversation, listeners share their wild party mishaps. Sandy recounts a surreal high school graduation bonfire in Montana, where an SUV explosion forced teens to survive the night amidst a forest fire. Stephen hilariously reflects on the college party that left him with a severe leg injury after falling through a skylight. Jessa’s bachelorette trip spirals into chaos when they accidentally book an Airbnb next to a police raid on a sex-trafficking ring. Maddie describes her New York housewarming turning into a physical showdown with aggressive neighbors. Tune in for these unforgettable tales!
