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
7 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 44min
Armchair Anonymous: Subway
Connor, a former missionary with a knack for storytelling, shares his unforgettable subway experiences in Mexico City. He recounts a harrowing journey on the Metro, filled with cultural immersion and unexpected challenges. Listeners will be captivated by his humorous yet intense tales, blending dark humor with vulnerability. The discussion also touches on the unpredictable nature of urban commuting, highlighting the unique bonds formed amid the chaos of city life.
Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 52min
Amanda Uhle (on hoarding)
Amanda Uhle, a journalist and the author of 'Destroy This House', shares her unique upbringing marked by her mother's hoarding and her father's motivational business ventures. She discusses navigating the complexities of being a pastor’s kid and how these experiences shaped her identity. Amanda also reflects on the emotional turmoil of her childhood home and her journey of understanding her parents after their deaths. With humor and insight, she explores the profound effects of family dynamics on personal growth and resilience.
7 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 53min
Mom's Car: Kristen Bell
Kristen Bell, the award-winning actress known for her roles in Frozen and The Good Place, joins the conversation alongside Dax Shepard and Aaron Weakley. They dive into her love for the Chevrolet Bolt, humorous insights on childhood memories and mischief, and the emotional journey of parenting as children prepare to leave home. The trio also explore the complexities of vulnerability and infidelity, emphasizing the importance of honesty and connection in relationships. Expect laughter mixed with heartfelt reflections throughout!
6 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 1min
Introducing... Mom's Car with Dax Shepard & BFAW
Join Dax and Aaron as they hit the road in a borrowed car, reminiscing about the joy of cruising with friends. Their candid chats with guests from various backgrounds lead to hilarious stories and unexpected revelations. You’ll hear amusing anecdotes about car rides, including transporting a pregnant woman! It’s a mix of vulnerability and humor that invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys. Buckle up for a wild ride filled with hot food and even hotter conversation!
14 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 2h 17min
Amanda Knox
Amanda Knox, an exoneree, author, and producer, dives into the complexities of her infamous case and the media's sensationalism. She discusses the struggle between personal identity and public perception, and how society often demonizes those who are different. Amanda highlights the nuances of interrogation versus interviews, sharing her experiences with misunderstandings and the psychological pressure of accusations. The conversation touches on the enduring impacts of wrongful convictions and calls for empathy in the face of societal biases.
11 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 46min
Armchair Anonymous: First Day of School
Dive into the nostalgia of school days with hilarious mishaps and memorable firsts! Hear about a chaotic first day, where a new teacher collides with a bike-riding student, leading to unexpected lessons in resilience. Relive the comedic chaos of bathroom incidents and wardrobe disasters, alongside humorous tales of vomiting during choir practice. Listen as speakers share their experiences with bullying, camaraderie, and personal growth, all while reflecting on the challenges of fitting in and navigating life's unexpected twists.
12 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 53min
Nancy Segal (on twins)
Nancy Segal, an evolutionary psychologist and expert on twins, joins the conversation to unravel the mysteries of twin dynamics. She explains surprising insights from her work on twins raised apart, including how identical twins often mirror each other more than fraternal twins. The discussion spans topics like the unique genetic connections of twins, the emotional complexity of their relationships, and how their experiences challenge our understanding of identity and behavior. Prepare for a captivating dive into the science behind twinship!
13 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 50min
Luke Combs
In this lively chat, award-winning country musician Luke Combs reflects on a surprising truck gift from Garth Brooks and shares his unique views on the music industry. He opens up about feeling unfulfilled despite immense success and credits his high school music teachers for their ongoing support. Luke discusses his battle with anxiety and OCD, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and giving back. From navigating fame to the quirks of country life, this conversation is filled with humor, insight, and authentic storytelling.
Aug 15, 2025 • 45min
Armchair Anonymous: Summer Camp
Dive into wild summer camp stories filled with hilarious mischief, from chaotic water balloon pranks to unexpected crushes. Experience the thrills of bargain hunting and unique adventures alongside amusing tales of mishaps among counselors. Listen as friends bond over caregiving moments and reminisce about the innocence of youth amid chaotic situations, like police chases and lice outbreaks. With humor and camaraderie at its core, these lighthearted memories capture the essence of unforgettable summer endeavors.
12 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 2h 10min
Chris Feistl & Dave Mitchell (former DEA agents)
Chris Feistl and Dave Mitchell, former DEA agents renowned for dismantling the Cali Cartel, share thrilling tales from their undercover days in Colombia. They discuss the stark differences between the Medellín and Cali cartels, emphasizing how Cali's strategic sophistication allowed them to thrive post-Escobar. The duo also details their high-stakes operations and the constant dangers faced, revealing shocking stories about corruption and betrayal in the drug trade. They provide a candid look into the mind of narcoterrorism while reflecting on their personal adventures in law enforcement.
