Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Michael Calvey (Odyssey Moscow: One American's Journey from Russia Optimist to Prisoner of the State) is an investor, businessman, and author. Michael joins the Armchair Expert to discuss how the Soviet Union existed when he climbed the the matterhorn but had fallen by the time he came down, learning that contact lenses freeze inside one’s eyes in Russian temperatures, and being an early tech investor in the Russian during its big recession. Michael and Dax talk about his apartment being deliberately set on fire by rivals, being raided and arrested by armed men in the middle of the night, and feeling betrayed by believing so much in a country that wrongly imprisoned him. Michael explains discovering he had a malignant tumor in his leg while behind bars, what the average Russian citizen thinks of Putin, and why writing this book was both cathartic and cheaper than therapy.Follow Armchair Expert on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Watch new content on YouTube or listen to Armchair Expert early and ad-free by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/armchair-expert-with-dax-shepard/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alex Cooper, a podcast host and television personality known for 'Call Her Daddy,' shares her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. She candidly discusses her experiences growing up with a therapist mother and confronting bullying during her childhood. Alex opens up about the challenges she faced as a college soccer player, including harassment and navigating the competitive sports environment. The conversation also touches on her new documentary 'Call Her Alex,' highlighting the importance of vulnerability and the systemic issues within athletics.

Tim Lovestead, a longtime friend of Dax and fellow Groundlings alumnus, shares his hilarious and eye-opening experiences serving jury duty. He recounts the drama of a high-stakes murder trial and the complexities faced by jurors, showcasing the emotional rollercoaster in the courtroom. The conversation blends humor about culinary cravings during deliberations with nostalgia for snacks like Twizzlers. They also delve into the absurdities of the legal system and the unexpected connections formed in such intense situations.

Shan Boodram, a certified sex educator and intimacy expert, shares her insights on making sex education engaging. She discusses the exoticism of nationalities and how they perceive intimacy. Shan emphasizes the importance of open communication about desires and addresses the orgasm gap, highlighting the benefits of being direct in relationships. They explore the relationship between societal norms and sexual behavior while advocating for self-exploration and pleasure mapping, all delivered with humor and relatable anecdotes.

Sam Rockwell, Oscar-winning talent known for his diverse roles, shares his remarkable journey from the Tenderloin of San Francisco to Hollywood stardom. He opens up about his early experiences in theater alongside his mother, the whimsical dance moves that fuel his creativity, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity as an actor. Rockwell humorously reflects on his first moment of recognition while working as a busboy and explores the emotional complexities of his craft, revealing the interplay of personal growth and professional challenges in his life.

Nick, a police detective specializing in homicide and crimes against children, shares his gripping personal experience with stalking from his youth. The conversation delves into the emotional toll of stalking, discussions about community fear, and the intricate dynamics of toxic relationships. With a blend of humor and serious reflections, they also explore social misconceptions around mental health and personal safety. This honest exploration reveals the complexities of trust, emotional manipulation, and the importance of setting boundaries.

James Kimmel Jr., a Yale lecturer and author of *The Science of Revenge*, dives into the intricacies of forgiveness and revenge. He shares a humorous yet chilling tale of plotting vengeance against another Jimmy Kimmel. The discussion reveals how revenge can become addictive and examines the psychological impacts on individuals. James highlights the importance of being heard for victims, explores societal norms around justice, and introduces a concept for processing grievances through role-playing. His insights blend humor with profound reflections on personal growth.

Cristin Milioti, a Grammy Award-winning actor known for her roles in The Penguin and How I Met Your Mother, shares fascinating insights from her career. She reminisces about growing up in Jersey and the communal experience of theater. Cristin reflects on unforgettable moments, like playing opposite DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Street and being nominated for a Tony. They also discuss the emotional complexities of acting, the unique challenges of fame, and the profound impact of artistry on personal identity.

Get ready for an amusing journey aboard a cruise ship, where personal tales include a chaotic spring break adventure and a honeymoon filled with unexpected mishaps. The hosts dive into the hilarity of cruise disasters, exploring everything from awkward chafing to encounters with sea urchins. Nostalgia takes center stage with a wild Backstreet Boys cruise experience and reflections on parenting and family life. Amidst the laughter, there's a heartfelt discussion on reclaiming personal stories and resilience against adversity.

Scott Payne, a retired FBI Special Agent and author, shares gripping stories from his 28-year undercover career. He recounts his initiation into undercover work with biker gangs and the moral dilemmas of betraying trust for justice. Scott delves into infiltrating extremist groups, discussing a surreal goat sacrifice ritual and the psychological challenges of his role. He emphasizes the necessity of empathy while navigating the dangerous world of crime and extremism, blending thrilling anecdotes with profound insights on accountability and personal growth.