

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 13, 2024 • 50min
Armchair Anonymous: Blessing in Disguise
Ryan, a caller with a remarkable story, discusses how his brain cancer diagnosis during the pandemic became a surprising blessing. He shares insights about finding purpose amidst chaos and embracing life changes. The conversation touches on resilience and personal growth, emphasizing how unexpected challenges can lead to newfound appreciation. Ryan’s journey offers a powerful reminder of hope and humor in the darkest times, showcasing the transformative effects of facing one’s fears head-on.

Sep 11, 2024 • 2h 2min
Bill Lawrence
Bill Lawrence (Bad Monkey, Ted Lasso, Scrubs) is a writer, director, and show runner. Bill joins the Armchair Expert to discuss not watching his friends’ shows, how powerful the concept of story can be, and what having a renaissance later in life is like. Bill and Dax talk about what it’s like to be related to a famous family, the path to being a comedy writer, and how hard it is to build a world on screen. Bill explains why he wanted to transition from network to streaming, how difficult it is to make a show that relates to everyone, and the process of writing for specific actors. 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.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

5 snips
Sep 9, 2024 • 2h 9min
Vince Vaughn
Vince Vaughn, famed for his roles in "Wedding Crashers" and "Dodgeball," shares insights on his creative journey and the importance of competence in his craft. He discusses childhood challenges, including bullying and academic struggles, and reflects on the necessity of empathy. Vaughn expresses his thoughts on the current state of comedies and emphasizes the role of conflict in upbringing. With a nod to nostalgia, he shares hilarious stories and his experiences navigating fame, while addressing mental health and the value of honest relationships.

Sep 6, 2024 • 51min
Armchair Anonymous: Internship
This conversation dives into hilarious and heartfelt tales from disastrous internships. Listeners hear about the ethical dilemmas of unpaid labor and the competitive world of securing prestigious roles. Personal stories include a transformative yet challenging experience as a scuba diving instructor and navigating unexpected travel mishaps. There’s dark humor in interns’ survival tales from medical settings, all while reflecting on resilience and personal growth. Ultimately, it celebrates the chaos and camaraderie that come with these formative experiences.

16 snips
Sep 4, 2024 • 2h 37min
Doctor Mike
Doctor Mike, a family medicine doctor and YouTube's #1 Doctor, shares his journey as the son of immigrants and how he built his social media presence. He discusses the dangers of hyper body optimization and the impact of wealth on healthcare access. The conversation touches on his views about surgery, the importance of physical therapy, and honesty in doctor-patient interactions. With a mix of humor and insight, Doctor Mike explores health myths, the influence of social media on medical advice, and the complexities of navigating the medical profession.

Sep 2, 2024 • 2h 15min
Without a Paddle Reunion
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of *Without a Paddle*, Seth Green and Matthew Lillard share hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, including their dreaded shirtless scenes and wild set antics. They reflect on the evolution of comedy, tackle the challenges of fame, and discuss their own teenage acting insecurities. With anecdotes about Burt Reynolds and chaotic wrap parties, they provide an entertaining mix of nostalgia and laughter. Plus, hear about renting the King of Thailand's house and what it’s like for their kids to watch their films!

Aug 30, 2024 • 50min
Armchair Anonymous: Worst Parenting
Dax and Monica talk to Armcherries! In today's episode, Armcherries tell us about their worst parenting moment. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

8 snips
Aug 29, 2024 • 1h 59min
Andrew Newberg Returns (on Sex, God, and the Brain)
Dr. Andrew Newberg, a fascinating neuroscientist and author, dives deep into how spirituality intertwines with sexuality. He shares insights on the evolutionary ties that bind these two aspects, revealing how they activate similar neural pathways during intense experiences. The discussion also touches on the biochemistry of god and sex, exploring the societal impacts of rituals and the balance of consent. Newberg’s exploration of orgasmic meditation and its spiritual implications leaves listeners contemplating the profound connections within human experience.

Aug 26, 2024 • 1h 58min
Sam Richardson
Sam Richardson (Sausage Party: Foodtopia, Veep, Detroiters) is an Emmy award-winning actor and comedian. Sam joins the Armchair Expert to discuss his thoughts on the institution of marriage, how his parents met in Ghana, and going to a Jesuit school. Sam and Dax talk about famous Michiganders, his time on the Second City cruise ship, and local Detroit commercials. Sam explains how much Veep taught him about being on set, having to fight the regrets of his convictions, and his favorite ride at Cedar Point.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aug 23, 2024 • 45min
Armchair Anonymous: Grocery Store
A grocery store theme sparks wild and funny tales from listeners. One story features a child's mishap with a wine display, blending chaos with parenting joy. Honeymoon hilarity takes center stage with a bathroom emergency in Rome, showcasing travel's uncomfortable realities. Listeners recount unexpected finds in grocery fridges and the impact on employee morale, along with nostalgic chats about skin care and food. The narrative takes a tense turn as a checkout chaos unfolds during a police chase, ultimately celebrating heartwarming family moments.


