Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Join bestselling author and journalist Michael Lewis as he dives into the alarming rise of the gambling epidemic among young men. He shares intriguing stories from his Wall Street days and the chaotic art market, highlighting the addictive nature of trading and sports betting. Michael also reflects on the personal cost of pursuing one’s passion over societal expectations. With a sharp critique of how these issues affect individuals and society, he underscores the importance of understanding the risks and realities of gambling.

Jon Bernthal, an Emmy Award-winning actor, shares insights from his diverse career and personal life. He discusses how embracing his scruffy appearance has influenced his roles and emphasizes teaching his kids emotional resilience. Jon reflects on his artistic growth from attending acting school in Russia, blending his love for theater and sports, even making money playing baseball. He also delves into the values he gained from a Quaker upbringing, shedding light on anger management through boxing and the importance of sincerity in interactions.

Susan Morrison, a journalist and author known for her work at SPY Magazine and The New Yorker, dives into the intriguing life of Lorne Michaels. She discusses the unique blend of comedy and journalism during her time at SPY. Topics include the significance of humor as a universal language and how Lorne's experiences shaped his production brilliance at SNL. With insights on the evolution of live comedy and the art of audience engagement, Morrison highlights SNL's impact on entertainment and shares personal anecdotes that reveal the quirks of the industry.

In this engaging conversation, Anthony Anderson, an Emmy-nominated actor and comedian best known for his roles in Black-ish and Law & Order, shares a hilarious story about breaking a Guinness World Record for hitting a golf ball with an unusually long club. He humorously speculates on Stevie Wonder’s eyesight and recounts the amusing saga of trying to cash in on a dinner promise from Lionel Richie. Delving into family legacy, Anthony also reflects on the lasting impact of losing his father while highlighting his journey through grief and nostalgia.

This discussion takes a deep dive into the intense world of first responders, showcasing surreal stories filled with chaos and urgency. Hear about harrowing rescues, personal motivations, and the dark humor that helps these heroes cope with trauma. They also explore the impact of technology and community support in emergency situations. Light-hearted moments break up the serious narratives, from gaming interests to travel aspirations, reflecting the unpredictable reality of those who face life-and-death challenges daily.

David Blaine, a celebrated magician and endurance performer, shares captivating insights from his extraordinary career. He reflects on his childhood in Brooklyn, the artistry of magic, and his love for endurance challenges rooted in breath control. Listeners learn about the intense sensations behind his 44-day stint in a plexiglass box and the unpredictable moments during his performances. Blaine also discusses how simple tricks could brighten his mother's day, revealing the emotional depth of his craft and the unique psychological dance between performer and audience.

Monica Lewinsky, an activist and writer, returns to discuss her new podcast, 'Reclaiming.' She candidly addresses her struggles with trauma and self-acceptance while observing how vulnerability impacts conversations. Monica shares insights on societal pressures, fame, and personal growth, revealing how her experiences have shaped her identity. The discussion touches on the complexities of love and the evolving dynamics of relationships. Throughout, she emphasizes the importance of embracing one's unique narrative, particularly for women in the spotlight.

The hosts share hilarious anecdotes from their chaotic visits to Cedar Point amusement park, including a memorable mishap with a wet paper towel. They dive into the thrill of roller coasters, exploring childhood nostalgia, even recounting rides during tornado alerts. A lighthearted chat emerges about pop culture collectibles and home technology. The chaos and laughs continue as they reflect on their daughters' first coaster experiences, peer pressure, and the relatable discomforts of amusement park adventures while encouraging bucket list exploration.

David Sedaris, a renowned comedian and author known for his sharp wit, returns with entertaining insights on life and art. He shares why his Picasso would be his prized possession in a fire and discusses the complexities of love, humor, and societal taboos. Sedaris hilariously reflects on his experience with a priest outfit and his mission to celebrate his mother through writing. With anecdotes about bodily functions, societal expectations, and the nuance of offensiveness, this conversation is a delightful blend of humor and introspection.

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.