Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Standup comedian Bert Kreischer, known for his hilarious storytelling and shirtless performances, shares insights into his comedic journey and the importance of vulnerability. He discusses thriving in content creation and the power of editing to shape his career. Bert reflects on his father's tough love, the origin of his iconic flip-flops, and the joy of pooling tips to uplift his show staff. Their light-hearted banter touches on the quirks of celebrity lifestyles, fulfilling friendships during challenging times, and the emotional nuances of parenting in the comedy world.

This discussion dives into the hilarious secrets people have kept from their parents. Anecdotes of childhood mischief, including sneaking out and a chaotic Halloween, provide both laughter and nostalgia. The hosts tackle the emotional weight of unshared confessions, while also covering pop culture and AI with wit. A heartfelt tale of resilience shines through as they navigate grief and humor in tough times. With moments of silliness and reflection, the conversation celebrates the complexities of family dynamics and the joy found in everyday stories.

Rebecca Lemov, a Harvard historian of science and author of The Instability of Truth, dives into brainwashing and mind control. She discusses how Patty Hearst used brainwashing as a defense, revealing the manipulative power of stripping an individual's identity. The conversation touches on the psychological trauma faced by Korean War soldiers and the societal acceptance of brutal military training. Lemov also links addiction and brainwashing, highlighting how modern dynamics, like social media's influence, echo cult-like control in today’s society.

Dove Cameron, an Emmy Award-winning actor and singer, dives into her eclectic life experiences. She shares the quirky origins of bloomers and her humorous aversion to gooey ducks. Dove reflects on growing up in India, her early musical ventures, and the challenges of navigating fame while coping with loss. They explore the importance of demystifying mental health and the impact of familial bonds on creativity. With playful banter and heartfelt insights, Dove reveals the joys and struggles behind her artistic journey and personal growth.

Dive into charming tales of serendipitous meet cutes, as listeners share their delightful romantic encounters. Relive the hilarity of college mishaps and nostalgic moments, from playful dog bites to compatibility tests. Explore the irresistible dynamics of love in unexpected places, alongside heartwarming reflections on young love. Enjoy a comical run-in with law enforcement and the chaos that brings unexpected connections. The transformative power of shared stories is highlighted, showcasing the journey of recovery through personal narratives.

Herman Pontzer, an evolutionary anthropologist and author, dives into fascinating topics this time. He discusses the idea that the brain is the body's most energy-demanding organ and explores the surprising link between anxiety and calorie burn. Pontzer challenges common dietary beliefs, specifically debunking the paleo diet and sharing insights from his research on the Hadza people’s energy expenditure. He also reflects on intriguing aspects of human evolution and highlights the impact of environmental factors on our biology, health, and adaptability.

Eiza Gonzalez, a talented Mexican actress and singer known for her roles in 'Baby Driver' and 'Ambulance,' engages in a lively chat about everything from human DNA in hotdogs to her journey into acting after a personal tragedy. She shares insights on navigating cultural identity as a Mexican performer in Hollywood, her love for languages, and the value of mentorship in her career. Eiza also reflects on the emotional toll of fame, the challenges of typecasting, and how difficult experiences can lead to transformative opportunities.

Join in for a wild ride through thrilling tales of animal encounters! From humorous bear break-ins to dramatic moose meet-ups, the stories are both heart-pounding and hilarious. Dax and Monica share insights on support systems and the importance of seeking help, while also reflecting on childhood pets and chaotic experiences. With anecdotes mixing laughter and chaos, this conversation dives deep into the emotional impact of wild encounters, leaving listeners both entertained and informed.

Seth Rogen, an Emmy-nominated writer, actor, and director, joins alongside comedian Monica Padman. The duo shares hilarious tales, including Rogen's experience getting too high with Snoop Dogg. They discuss the emotional toll of public scrutiny on celebrities and the balance between creating art and commerce in filmmaking. Rogen reflects on the risks of directing and the allure of danger in storytelling. Their conversation also touches on comedic evolution, collaborative filmmaking, and personal anecdotes that blend humor with thoughtful insights.

Ike Barinholtz, a comedian known for his roles in The Mindy Project and Blockers, brings his humor back to the conversation. He hilariously discusses the Declaration of Independence as a 'goon fest' and his father's awkward encounter with Kate Hudson. The duo reflects on aging in Hollywood, from lead man aspirations to recreational joys like lung chugging laughing gas. They share amusing anecdotes about filming with Martin Scorsese and navigating celebrity life, all wrapped in lighthearted banter and comic insights.