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
Sep 16, 2025 • 51min
Mom's Car: Erick Richardson
Join ex-lawyer Erick Richardson, a tortoise enthusiast, as he shares his wildly unconventional path to becoming a law firm partner. He recounts making a quirky deal with God on a catamaran and how he stumbled upon a fascination with 11 rare giant tortoises. The trio also dives into the bizarre world of client payments, including a market for a cut-off toe. With humor flowing, they navigate the absurdities of life, touching on moral dilemmas and the joy of unexpected transformations.
15 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 2h 9min
Timothy Olyphant
Timothy Olyphant, the Emmy Award-nominated actor known for his roles in Deadwood and Justified, joins the discussion with intriguing insights. He humorously considers his middle child vibes and shares a unique perspective on being a skills generalist. The conversation touches on the art of vulnerability, celebrity encounters, and navigating personal dynamics in acting. Olyphant also examines deep questions about humanity while exploring the whimsical aspects of celebrity culture, leaving listeners both amused and reflective.
7 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 46min
Armchair Anonymous: Unauthorized Evacuation II
Join a laughter-filled chat as guests share outrageous stories about unexpected workplace evacuations. The conversation dives into military mishaps and embarrassing moments, all while highlighting the joy in shared experiences. From chaotic bathroom dashes to humorous school bus memories, the hosts discuss how these vulnerabilities forge connections. Plus, enjoy lively product reviews that blend laughter with practical insights. It's a delightful mix of humor and nostalgia, reminding us that everyone has had their share of odd encounters!
51 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 1h 44min
Seth Harp (on drug trafficking in the military)
Seth Harp, an investigative reporter and war veteran, shares his harrowing experiences transitioning from college to the military and his subsequent journey into journalism. He uncovers the shocking ties between drug trafficking and military operations, revealing the dark stories behind Fort Bragg and the rise of cartels like Los Zetas. Harp discusses the complicity in military misconduct, the opioid crisis linked to Afghanistan, and the often-hidden struggles of soldiers. His insights shed light on a troubling side of military service that’s seldom talked about.
Sep 9, 2025 • 53min
Mom's Car: Joy Bryant
Joy Bryant, known for her roles in Parenthood and Antwone Fisher, joins Dax and Aaron for a lively chat. They share amusing tales about matching tattoos and a wild party involving a thong. The trio dives into quirky moral dilemmas, like the ethics of a hypothetical brother-sister relationship. Joy reveals her dream stoner companions, while they also explore the highs and lows of psychedelic chocolate experiences. The conversation takes a turn to discuss the bizarre ethics around inhumane interactions, keeping humor firmly on the table.
16 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 58min
Alicia Silverstone
Alicia Silverstone, the award-winning actress known for her iconic role in Clueless, shares her unique journey in the entertainment industry. She discusses the disassociation she feels about past Hollywood experiences and connects her activism to her mother’s unintentional environmental influence. Alicia uncovers the unexpected connection between her serious demeanor and comedic essence. Additionally, she reveals how going vegan through her book, The Kind Diet, transformed her personal life and paved the way for a renewed passion for theater after time away from acting.
24 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 47min
Armchair Anonymous: Divorce II
Dive into the chaos of divorce with gripping personal stories and emotional reflections. Listeners hear about astounding tales of betrayal, healing, and resilience, as individuals navigate the highs and lows of relationships. The complexities of family dynamics and personal growth shine through, sparking laughter amidst serious themes. From budget fashion delights to finding style, the conversation balances humor with heartfelt narratives, inviting shared experiences and hope for those enduring similar trials.
17 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 1h 54min
Mark Ronson Returns
Mark Ronson, a Grammy and Academy Award-winning producer, shares his colorful journey from DJing in 90s New York City to creating chart-topping hits. He reminisces about the joyful tactile experience of vinyl versus digital music. Mark reveals the breakthrough mix that changed his career and discusses his unique perspective on not playing his own tracks to earn crowd respect. Their conversation also touches on memorable childhood moments with celebrities and the evolving nature of musical creativity and identity in the face of personal struggles.
Sep 2, 2025 • 1h 2min
Mom's Car: Karan Soni
Karan Soni, an actor known for his roles in Deadpool and Ghostbusters, shares his journey from Delhi to Hollywood. He discusses his childhood struggles with identity and humor, and reflects on gay storylines in TV history. Karan opens up about the complexities of returning to his hometown and accepting his family's dynamics. The conversation also touches on friendships in the context of addiction, showcasing both laughter and poignant moments as they navigate personal experiences and the entertainment industry.
11 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 1h 40min
Jason Aldean
Jason Aldean, a Grammy Award-winning country artist known for hits like 'My Kinda Party', shares his unique musical journey and personal experiences. He discusses how moving frequently affected his identity, his early days learning guitar from cassettes, and the challenges of balancing family life with a demanding touring schedule. Aldean opens up about dealing with PTSD and the emotional toll of performing for fans, while also reflecting on the authenticity in country music songwriting. His insights blend humor and nostalgia, offering a candid look at life in the spotlight.
