Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Mindy Kaling, an Emmy-nominated writer and actress known for hits like The Mindy Project, joins the discussion to share intriguing anecdotes about her background and career. She hilariously reflects on the cultural identity complexities of being Indian in LA and the humorous expectations tied to women in comedy. Mindy reveals how a mishap on stage shifted her perspective on perseverance and discusses the impactful advice from Reese Witherspoon about motherhood. With insights on personal growth and navigating friendships, this chat is both entertaining and enlightening!

Dive into the hilarious world of DIY disasters! From catastrophic Halloween costume fails to a chaotic home renovation that led to an explosion, the tales are both amusing and relatable. Listen as personal hygiene and awkward food show encounters add to the fun. Experience the nostalgic chaos of college days mixed with family dynamics and lessons learned from cutting corners. Join the laughter as the speakers navigate through their wild adventures, blending heartfelt stories with entertaining mishaps.

Blaise Aguirre, a Harvard psychiatrist specializing in dialectical behavior therapy, shares profound insights on overcoming self-hatred and understanding Borderline Personality Disorder. He likens a mind affected by BPD to a fast car without a skilled driver, emphasizing the chaos that emotional dysregulation causes. Aguirre highlights the liberating realization that we are all stardust and reminds us that true healing requires facing uncomfortable emotions. His passion for helping patients is palpable as he discusses the transformative power of empathy and self-compassion.

Nikki Glaser, a celebrated comedian and television host, chats about her journey in the spotlight. She humorously critiques society's obsession with beauty, sharing her struggles with self-image and the pressure of being extraordinary. The discussion touches on her experiences with sobriety, social anxiety, and how humor can stem from insecurities. They also dive into the nuances of modern dating dynamics and the joy of connecting with fans. Nikki's candid reflections and laughter make for an engaging conversation about personal growth and authenticity.

Dive into the wild world of DNA testing as personal stories unfold with unexpected family revelations. Hear about astonishing discoveries, like finding a biological brother, that spark conversations about identity and ancestry. The hosts share humorous and heartfelt anecdotes while discussing the emotional rollercoaster of unraveling family secrets and connections. There's a playful exploration of how today's openness towards genetics contrasts with the past, making for a captivating reflection on modern family dynamics.

Alison Wood Brooks, a behavioral research scientist at Harvard Business School and author of "Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves," delves into the nuances of human interaction. She shares fascinating insights on how vulnerability enhances connections and explains why asking questions can spark magic in conversations. Their chat also touches on the complex dynamics of twin communication and the significant role humor plays in relationships. Plus, Alison reveals why saying ‘I’m sorry’ might matter more than saying ‘I love you.’

Walton Goggins, an Emmy-nominated actor celebrated for his roles in "The Shield" and "Justified," shares his journey from poverty to success. He delves into rejecting cultural stereotypes and the influence of his Southern upbringing. Walton emphasizes the importance of authenticity in both life and art. He reflects on the joy of fatherhood, valuing time with his child over fame. The conversation also touches on the complexities of the entertainment industry and personal growth, illustrated through anecdotes of pivotal moments in his career.

Join Dax and Monica as they dive into a series of hilariously disastrous marriage proposals. From a romantic Valentine's Day gone awry to chaotic plans thwarted by snowdrifts, their laughter is contagious. Discover tales of first dates turned frightening, including a dramatic proposal interrupted by masked figures and chainsaws. They also share touching stories that intertwine trauma and love, exploring the emotional intricacies of relationship growth and the importance of genuine consent, all wrapped in humor.

Nate Silver, a renowned statistician and founder of FiveThirtyEight, shares insights from his fascinating career in political and sports forecasting. He recalls his ambitious youth, aspiring to become president and later a baseball commissioner. The conversation delves into how code-switching has aided his success as a gay man, his foray into online poker, and the importance of statistical literacy. Nate discusses the adrenaline rush of winning streaks, comparing it to a narcotic, and critiques the risky behaviors of figures like Sam Bankman-Fried, shedding light on decision-making in high-stakes environments.

Chelsea Handler, a beloved comedian and author known for her hit show Chelsea Lately, brings her signature humor back. She shares insights on appreciating words over gifts and having the best sex of her life at 50. The conversation dives into finding optimism in dark times and the absurdity of unsolicited advice. Chelsea reflects on Jane Fonda’s influence on her relationships and encourages embracing authenticity. They also humorously navigate the challenges of aging, social dynamics, and the evolving realities of public life.