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
Nov 11, 2025 • 55min
Mom's Car: Larry Trilling
Larry Trilling, a talented television and film director known for his work on Parenthood, shares insights from his creative journey. He recounts his early days making Super 8 films and attending Santa Monica High with notable classmates. Larry discusses the nuances of directing TV, from blocking to nurturing actor performances, and reveals his favorite films and the impact they had on his life. The conversation touches on the potential for a Parenthood revival, sparking nostalgia and enthusiasm for the series.
21 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 29min
Anthony Hopkins
In this engaging conversation, Sir Anthony Hopkins, the celebrated Academy Award-winning actor, shares insights from his memoir, We Did Okay, Kid. He reflects on his childhood during WWII in Wales and the challenges of feeling like an outsider. Hopkins recounts a pivotal moment at the YMCA that ignited his acting career, the impact of Laurence Olivier's mentorship, and his journey to sobriety. He offers powerful advice for young people about perseverance and self-belief, while also revealing his passion for music and painting.
4 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 49min
Armchair Anonymous: Wild Card IX
This episode features four anonymous callers sharing wild and unexpected stories. Nikki recounts a terrifying slackline accident resulting in an unforgettable ER visit. Riley shares a chilling account of a manipulative acquaintance from college who staged a fake crisis. Christina brings a bizarre twist with her tale of finding a dead rodent in her water bottle after a trip. Lastly, Zelda shares her harrowing experience of getting lost while hiking and her dramatic helicopter rescue. Each narrative blends humor and horror, making for an engaging listen!
Nov 5, 2025 • 2h 5min
Malala Yousafzai (education activist)
Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and education activist, shares her incredible journey from a normal life in Pakistan to becoming a global voice for girls' education. She discusses the impact of Taliban restrictions that sparked her activism, her struggle to fit in after the attack, and the emotional weight of her recognition. Malala reveals her relationship with her husband, the power of therapy for mental health, and the bravery in embracing vulnerability through her memoir, Finding My Way.
Nov 4, 2025 • 50min
Mom's Car: Ryan Hansen
Ryan Hansen, an actor and comedian known for his roles in *Veronica Mars* and *Party Down*, shares hilarious and heartfelt stories from his youth. He recalls feeling famous at church, influenced by his pastor father. Together with Dax and Aaron, Ryan dives into mischievous teenage antics, including a legendary redheaded troublemaker and embarrassing first sexual encounters. The trio humorously reflects on the ups and downs of high school life, from acting out as an escape to awkward sexual experiences involving everything from rocks to Jell-O.
36 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 2h 8min
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon, an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Academy Award-winning actor, shares insights from her life and career. She reminisces about her childhood in Germany and how her adventurous parenting contrasts with her upbringing. The conversation dives into the evolution of romcoms and modern dating dynamics, alongside her bold audition for 'Election.' Reese reveals the journey of co-writing her novel 'Gone Before Goodbye' with Harlan Coben and reflects on the power of female collaboration in projects like 'Big Little Lies.'
Oct 31, 2025 • 48min
Armchair Anonymous: Babysitting II
In this episode, a courageous nurse shares a wild story involving a new babysitter, her kids, and a sudden mall shopping spree that racked up $340 without permission. She describes her confrontational texts with the sitter and decides to part ways after defensive replies. Another caller narrates a shocking childhood babysitting experience, revealing how a friendly tutor turned out to have serious mental health issues. They all reflect on safety and the unpredictability of people, delivering a blend of humor and cautionary tales.
Oct 30, 2025 • 3min
Listen Now: BETH’S DEAD
A longtime fan dives into the unsettling mystery behind two beloved podcasters who vanished years ago. As secrets unfold, listeners discover chilling events involving police and a tragic death. Emotional reactions surface as concerns for the podcasters' safety grow. Disturbing listener emails add to the tension, leaving everyone questioning the nature of their investigation. Tune in for a gripping tale filled with twists and real-life intrigue.
11 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 33min
Cas Holman (on being playful)
Cas Holman, a pioneering play designer and author of 'Playful', shares her insights on the profound role of play in both children and adults. She discusses the twelve play types, highlighting how deep play helps us process fears and drives innovation. Cas also delves into the importance of creating open-ended play systems that foster identity exploration, and how being playful is a form of resistance against societal pressures. Tune in for her practical tips on reconnecting with playfulness and the power it holds in our lives.
Oct 28, 2025 • 49min
Mom's Car: Tim Lovestedt
In this conversation, comedic performer Tim Lovestedt shares his journey from the Groundlings to Hollywood. He hilariously recounts his day job in wine and the camaraderie of tall boy beers. Tim opens up about feeling survivor's guilt while friends achieve fame, all while keeping creative memories alive. The duo reflects on the challenges of maintaining friendships post-fame, the art of storytelling, and the small fabrications that come with shared memories. It's a delightful blend of laughs and heartfelt moments!
