
Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
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.
Latest episodes

Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 46min
Chelsea Handler Returns Again
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.

10 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 40min
Armchair Anonymous: Sports Event
Join in on a whirlwind of sports event disasters, featuring hilarious anecdotes that showcase the lighter side of chaos. From a thrilling Winnipeg Jets game spiraling into a brawl to nostalgic basketball memories interwoven with food poisoning, the stories delve into both laughter and life lessons. Humor meets heartfelt reflections on safety, family ties, and the unpredictability of sports. Plus, amusing conversations around eye care and hydration mix in, proving that misfortune can lead to unforgettable moments.

62 snips
Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 46min
Acquired Podcast on the NFL (with Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal)
Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal, co-hosts of the Acquired podcast, delve into the intriguing history of the NFL. They discuss how Teddy Roosevelt influenced safety reforms and the formation of the NCAA to save football. The duo shares insights on how the NFL's revenue-sharing model supports all teams and explores the revolutionary impact of Monday Night Football on television. Their humor shines as they relate personal anecdotes and critique the league's history with segregation and competition, all while making complex business strategies accessible and entertaining.

38 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 2h 17min
James Marsden
James Marsden, an Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor known for his roles in X-Men and Jury Duty, shares intriguing insights about life in Hollywood. He humorously discusses the perks and challenges of having a dominant chin and reflects on his middle-child status. Marsden reveals the absurdities of auditioning, his fear of every job being his last, and the complexities of blending comedy with empathy in shows like Jury Duty. Their camaraderie shines as they exchange stories about sibling dynamics and navigating the competitive nature of the entertainment industry.

7 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 43min
Armchair Anonymous: Nurses II
Dive into the wild world of nursing as Armcherries share their most outrageous and heartwarming stories. Discover the beauty of camaraderie, resilience, and humor that nurses rely on in chaotic emergency rooms. From bomb threats to caring for eccentric patients, the balance between laughs and serious responsibilities shines through. Emotional tales bring to life the unpredictability of healthcare, underscoring the profound impact nurses have while navigating crises. It's a heartfelt mix of challenges, laughter, and unexpected moments from the frontline of nursing.

78 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 56min
Reid Hoffman Returns (on an optimistic AI)
In this chat, Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn and author of Super Agency, shares insights on the transformative power of AI and its societal implications. He argues that we can't have science or a middle class without innovations like the printing press. Hoffman discusses how AI encourages healthier dialogues and creativity, suggesting it serves as a tool for better understanding. He emphasizes building trust networks for a thriving society while humorously unpacking the quirks of life through unexpected anecdotes.

Jan 27, 2025 • 2h 23min
Josh Gad Returns
Josh Gad, a Grammy Award-winning actor known for his roles in Frozen and the Book of Mormon, returns for a captivating conversation. He humorously contemplates being the Unsinkable Molly Brown on the Titanic while sharing heartfelt reflections on his parents' divorce. The duo dives into the pressures of Hollywood, explores Gad's tumultuous audition for Juilliard, and the role of Disney in his life. With candor, they discuss the complexities of fatherhood, resilience, and how humor helps navigate life's adversities.

10 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 52min
Armchair Anonymous: Dated a Criminal
In a candid and humorous narrative, a woman shares her wild experience of dating a criminal involved in a smash and grab robbery. She reflects on the chaos of love intertwined with law enforcement encounters and substance addiction. Through her London, Ontario roots, she dives into the allure and turmoil of dating the 'bad boy', revealing alarming moments and valuable lessons learned. With a touch of charm, she explores the complexities of relationships, personal safety, and the red flags often missed in the pursuit of unconventional love.

12 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 56min
Sunita Sah (on defiance)
Sunita Sah, an award-winning professor of organizational psychology and author of "Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes," sheds light on the complexities of defiance and compliance. She discusses how Milgram's experiment influenced her career, and the communal importance of speaking up for others. Sunita explains the five elements that define a genuine 'yes' and shares a touching story about her mother’s unexpected act of defiance that taught her hope, highlighting how aligning our actions with values can reduce stress and promote authenticity.

5 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 46min
Adam Scott Returns
Adam Scott, the Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor known for his roles in Severance and Parks and Recreation, shares fascinating reflections on his childhood movie inspirations like E.T. and The Goonies. He candidly discusses navigating grief after losing his mother, revealing how it influences his work. The conversation highlights humorous takes on social norms, such as the embarrassment of being a 'fan at bar.' Adam also explores the complexities of aging, creativity, and the collaborative spirit of acting with legends like Christopher Walken.
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