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
Mar 7, 2024 • 2h 13min
Angela Duckworth Returns
Angela Duckworth (Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance) is a psychologist and author. Angela returns to the Armchair Expert to discuss why she doesn't like to swear, how language has evolved, and the maturity principle. Angela and Dax talk about the multiple selves problem, how most people never change their stance on topics, and how we can trigger our best modes that are most useful for a given situation. Angela explains psychological distance, why uncertainty can cause anxiety, and the protective wall of human community.
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Mar 4, 2024 • 1h 56min
Goldie Hawn
Goldie Hawn (Overboard, The First Wives Club, Death Becomes Her) is an actor, producer, and director. Goldie joins the Armchair Expert to discuss what she misses about being anonymous in public, how important approval from your parents is, and the successes of Roy Russell. Goldie and Dax talk about how she navigated her depression, how to respond to people who think you're a stereotype, and how to deal with narcissists. Goldie explains why she wanted to start an educational foundation that focuses on child brain development, why she has an aversion to marriage, and the time she got a telegram from Fred Astaire.
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Feb 29, 2024 • 2h 12min
Jared Cohen Returns
Jared Cohen, an insightful author and businessman renowned for his perspectives on U.S. presidents and geopolitics, shares intriguing tales about collecting presidential artifacts, including a lock of Lincoln's hair. He discusses the burdens of legacy, the ever-evolving role of politicians, and the influence of social media on radicalization. Moreover, Jared reflects on the connection between ambition and happiness, the importance of empathy in conflict resolution, and the broader implications of global shifts that impact the business landscape.
Feb 26, 2024 • 2h 3min
Bradley Cooper Returns
Bradley Cooper (Maestro, A Star is Born, Silver Linings Playbook) is an award-winning actor, producer, and filmmaker. Bradley returns to the Armchair Expert to discuss why it's important to be a good dancer, his new love of reality television, and how much he's worked on improving his self-esteem. Bradley and Dax talk about their morning rituals, how they've learned to evaluate their own stories, and how fulfilling it has been to become a parent. Bradley explains the importance of having empathy as an actor, the talent of Leonard Bernstein, and what makes him cry.
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Feb 23, 2024 • 46min
Armchair Anonymous: Greatest Fear
Dax and Monica talk to Armcherries! In today's episode, Armcherries tell us about a time their greatest fear came true.
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Feb 22, 2024 • 2h 3min
Rob Reiner
Rob Reiner (God & Country, Spinal Tap, All in the Family) is an actor and filmmaker. Rob joins the Armchair Expert to discuss how he helped the Pittsburgh Pirates win the 1960 World Series, why he prefers directing over acting and writing, and what it was like working with Martin Scorsese. Rob and Dax talk about their time in improv groups, the rise of All in the Family, and how fascinated they both are with Russia. Rob explains how much he looked up to and wanted to be like his father, why Christian Nationalism is a danger to the country and Christianity, and Dax tells him how much he sounds like best boy, Jimmy Kimmel.
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Feb 19, 2024 • 2h 23min
Camila Mendes
Camila Mendes (Riverdale, Upgraded, M�sica) is an actor and producer. Camila joins the Armchair Expert to discuss how young artists are often more vulnerable to the public, how much she has started to lean into her culture, and learning Alexander technique. Camila and Dax talk about what types of people they are attracted to, what it's like to know a second language with a significant other, and how to balance family dynamics. Camila explains how she booked a TV show while still in acting school, how romantic comedies have changed, and how teasing someone can be a form of affection.
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Feb 16, 2024 • 59min
Armchair Anonymous: Valentine's Day Disaster
Dax and Monica talk to Armcherries! In today's episode, Armcherries tell us about a Valentine's Day disaster.
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22 snips
Feb 15, 2024 • 2h 8min
Charles Duhigg (on being a supercommunicator)
Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of "The Power of Habit," shares insights on becoming a 'super communicator.' He discusses the cultural differences between the LA and New York Times. Charles highlights the importance of vulnerability and laughter in conversations—key to fostering connections. The trio explores how understanding conversation types—practical, emotional, and social—can enhance communication, and dives into the challenges of discussing identity and contentious topics with empathy.
Feb 12, 2024 • 2h 14min
Jason Bateman Returns Again
Jason Bateman (SmartLess, Ozark, Arrested Development) is an actor, director, producer, and podcaster. Jason joins the Armchair Expert to revisit the wiping debate, reveal he's a Capricorn, and explore why he distances himself from his intellect. Jason and Dax discuss how much they enjoy being with someone who's the opposite of them, their shared fear of becoming empty nesters, and the two have a sneeze-off. Jason talks about how seriously he takes the responsibility of leadership, how SmartLess handles three big personalities hosting the show, and how his bare feet will never touch a hotel room.
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