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.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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 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!
15 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 1h 58min
Walter Isaacson Returns (biographer & historian)
Walter Isaacson, a renowned biographer and historian, returns to share insights from his latest book. He discusses his immersive approach to storytelling and the importance of empathy in understanding innovators like Elon Musk. They also explore how childhood experiences shape geniuses and the need to reconcile the flaws in historical figures with their achievements. Isaacson emphasizes the significance of common ground in civic life and critiques modern meritocracy, urging listeners to foster unity and reclaim shared values.
17 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 1h 59min
Cher
Cher, the multi-platinum singer and Academy Award-winning actress, shares the unique journey of writing her memoir and recalls her surprise entry into acting with Robert Altman. She reflects on her early life in a Catholic home, navigating fame, and the importance of luck in her career. Kristen Bell chimes in with behind-the-scenes stories from Burlesque, revealing their camaraderie amidst chaotic moments. Cher also discusses her resilience in overcoming challenges, her desire to be seen as a hardworking woman rather than an icon, and mentions her supportive partner, Alexander.
Jan 2, 2026 • 1h 49min
Rerelease: Walton Goggins
Walton Goggins, an Emmy-nominated actor known for his work in Justified and The White Lotus, dives deep into his complex life and career. He reflects on turning down roles that perpetuate stereotypes, the impact of childhood poverty, and the eccentricity of his upbringing. Walton shares how American Express flight vouchers changed his life trajectory and recounts his thrilling experiences working with Quentin Tarantino. He emphasizes the importance of raising his child with intention, valuing artful living over mere success.
16 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 1h 49min
Rerelease: Nikki Glaser
Nikki Glaser, an acclaimed stand-up comedian and host known for her candid humor, chats with Dax about her career and personal insecurities. They dive into the pressures of looking perfect in Hollywood and Nikki's amusing plea against veneers during an apocalypse. The conversation touches on her journey to sobriety, overcoming negative comments, and her fears of being perceived as a mean girl. With humor, they explore childhood struggles and the complex nature of wanting approval, all while Dax humorously dubs her the 'Taylor Swift of comedy.'
Dec 29, 2025 • 1h 46min
Rerelease: Adam Scott Returns
Adam Scott, celebrated for his roles in 'Parks and Recreation' and 'Severance,' shares his journey through grief and storytelling. He reflects on the nostalgic impact of 80s films like 'E.T.' and 'The Goonies,' linking them to his childhood. Adam humorously recounts mishaps on set and his intriguing experiences during pandemic filming. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and journaling as tools for processing emotions, while also exploring the absurdity of modern marketing and the creative struggles in television production.
Dec 26, 2025 • 1h 27min
Best of Friday 2025
Monica shares a horrifying tale of a dead mouse found in her water bottle, while Taylor uncovers surprising truths about her twin DNA that redefine her identity. Jake recounts a chaotic wedding night mishap, and Tess humorously describes sitting in a puddle of human waste on the subway. EMT Daphne reveals a graphic rescue story involving severe leg necrosis. Medical experts Toby and Kim hilariously detail the removal of unusual foreign objects from patients, and Jonathan closes with an embarrassing dining-hall accident that spawns campus rumors.
Dec 24, 2025 • 1h 21min
Best of Wednesday 2025
Scott Payne shares a gripping tale of undercover work, detailing his adrenaline-filled experience during a dangerous wire check. Grammy-winner Mark Ronson reveals his star-studded upbringing, filled with legendary celebrity encounters. Psychiatrist Blaise Aguirre breaks down the nuances between mood and personality disorders, focusing on borderline personality disorder. Menopause expert Mary Claire Haver highlights unexpected symptoms and offers essential care strategies. Investigative journalists Dave Mitchell and Chris Feistl recount their nerve-wracking infiltration of the Cali cartel.
Dec 22, 2025 • 1h 18min
Best of Monday 2025
Dominic Fike, a singer-songwriter, shares his gripping story of releasing a mixtape while in jail and struggles with substance use. Dove Cameron, an actress and singer, opens up about her journey to reconnect with her father amidst complex emotions and mental health challenges. Alexander Skarsgård reflects on his early career struggles in LA and the journey of finding success after years of feeling like an outsider. Their raw, heartfelt conversations delve into family, ambition, and the highs and lows of personal growth.
15 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 38min
Armchair Anonymous: Holiday Nightmare III
In this chaotic holiday installment, callers share their unforgettable mishaps. Bella recounts a Plano Christmas where her family's attempt to help a stray dog turns disastrous when Uncle Bob accidentally peppersprays everyone. Sasha dives into a wild party experience, culminating in a twisted ankle during a questionable car outing, leading to hilarious family reassessments. Aaron wraps it up with his Christmas trip gone wrong, which includes a car crash and his newborn testing positive for COVID, topped off by a deer strike on their rental. Holiday cheer meets calamity!
