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
78 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 56min
Reid Hoffman Returns (on an optimistic AI)
In this chat, Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn and author of Super Agency, shares insights on the transformative power of AI and its societal implications. He argues that we can't have science or a middle class without innovations like the printing press. Hoffman discusses how AI encourages healthier dialogues and creativity, suggesting it serves as a tool for better understanding. He emphasizes building trust networks for a thriving society while humorously unpacking the quirks of life through unexpected anecdotes.
35 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 2h 23min
Josh Gad Returns
Josh Gad, a Grammy Award-winning actor known for his roles in Frozen and the Book of Mormon, returns for a captivating conversation. He humorously contemplates being the Unsinkable Molly Brown on the Titanic while sharing heartfelt reflections on his parents' divorce. The duo dives into the pressures of Hollywood, explores Gad's tumultuous audition for Juilliard, and the role of Disney in his life. With candor, they discuss the complexities of fatherhood, resilience, and how humor helps navigate life's adversities.
10 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 52min
Armchair Anonymous: Dated a Criminal
In a candid and humorous narrative, a woman shares her wild experience of dating a criminal involved in a smash and grab robbery. She reflects on the chaos of love intertwined with law enforcement encounters and substance addiction. Through her London, Ontario roots, she dives into the allure and turmoil of dating the 'bad boy', revealing alarming moments and valuable lessons learned. With a touch of charm, she explores the complexities of relationships, personal safety, and the red flags often missed in the pursuit of unconventional love.
12 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 56min
Sunita Sah (on defiance)
Sunita Sah, an award-winning professor of organizational psychology and author of "Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes," sheds light on the complexities of defiance and compliance. She discusses how Milgram's experiment influenced her career, and the communal importance of speaking up for others. Sunita explains the five elements that define a genuine 'yes' and shares a touching story about her mother’s unexpected act of defiance that taught her hope, highlighting how aligning our actions with values can reduce stress and promote authenticity.
11 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 46min
Adam Scott Returns
Adam Scott, the Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor known for his roles in Severance and Parks and Recreation, shares fascinating reflections on his childhood movie inspirations like E.T. and The Goonies. He candidly discusses navigating grief after losing his mother, revealing how it influences his work. The conversation highlights humorous takes on social norms, such as the embarrassment of being a 'fan at bar.' Adam also explores the complexities of aging, creativity, and the collaborative spirit of acting with legends like Christopher Walken.
11 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 55min
Armchair Anonymous: Unauthorized Evacuation
Lily Padman, a storyteller known for her captivating narratives, shares a wild tale about an unauthorized evacuation that brings both laughter and chaos. The conversation flows into amusing college dining hall dilemmas, revealing frantic restroom emergencies that led to unforgettable experiences. They also dive into the comedy of everyday mishaps and personal growth through humorous anecdotes, exploring the balance of chaos in life. Throughout, there's a heartwarming emphasis on community and resilience, making it a delightful listen.
15 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 1h 43min
Jenny Taitz (on stress resets)
Jenny Taitz, a licensed clinical psychologist and best-selling author, shares her expertise on stress management. She discusses turning stress into a helpful tool and the importance of emotional regulation. Taitz introduces creative techniques like singing anxieties away to shift mindset. The conversation also touches on cognitive behavioral therapy, the impact of thoughts on emotions, and effective communication during conflicts. With personal anecdotes, she emphasizes the role of community support and proactive approaches to mental health.
30 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 39min
Josh Brolin Returns
Josh Brolin, an Academy Award-nominated actor known for his roles in iconic films like 'No Country for Old Men' and 'Dune,' joins for a captivating discussion. He shares insights from his memoir, revealing how life's challenges shape us and why even small acts of bravery can bring tears. The conversation explores navigating Hollywood relationships, the impact of childhood experiences, and the chaos of creativity in storytelling. Brolin reflects on vulnerability, forgiveness, and the unpredictability of life, all with a blend of humor and heartfelt moments.
4 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 43min
Armchair Anonymous: Embarrassingly Caught
Dana White, a dedicated listener, shares a comical tale about a gynecological mishap involving a lab coat that adds a layer of humor to the often awkward realm of health visits. The conversation brims with relatable embarrassing moments, from accidental inappropriate content at a pizza joint to awkward teenage encounters. They dive into the significance of vulnerability in fostering connection, along with nostalgic reflections that evoke laughter and camaraderie, perfect for anyone who has experienced those cringeworthy life moments.
65 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 1h 60min
Ken Goldberg (roboticist)
Ken Goldberg, an award-winning roboticist and professor at UC Berkeley, shares his fascinating journey from Nigeria to robotics. He discusses the origins of the term 'robot' and the ongoing quest for better robot design. Ken highlights the challenges of robotic dexterity and how human capabilities are molded over time. He also reflects on the influence of his upbringing and the intersection of AI with personal identity and creativity. Tune in for humorous anecdotes and insights into the complexities of today's technological landscape.
