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
77 snips
May 21, 2025 • 1h 48min
Eric Topol Returns (on longevity)
Eric Topol, a renowned cardiologist and author of 'Super Agers,' shares fascinating insights on longevity and health innovations. He discusses the groundbreaking role of AI in enhancing patient care and a controversial gag order regarding a harmful drug. Eric reveals the unsuspected history of Viagra and the importance of lifestyle over genetics for healthy aging. He also touches on the dangers of ultra-processed foods and the need for personalized nutrition, all while maintaining an optimistic view of the future of aging and health.
26 snips
May 19, 2025 • 2h 11min
Michelle Williams
Michelle Williams, a Golden Globe-winning actress known for her roles in 'Dying for Sex' and 'Manchester by the Sea', shares her unique journey. She discusses her nostalgic childhood adventures and the importance of independence. Emancipated at 15, she reflects on her early career and the emotional impact of her roles, especially in 'Brokeback Mountain'. The conversation also touches on the complexities of motherhood, the lessons nature teaches, and finding balance between a high-profile career and family life, all delivered with warmth and humor.
8 snips
May 16, 2025 • 40min
Armchair Anonymous: Public Transit
Dive into wild public transit tales filled with humor and shock! From chaotic subway stories to unforgettable misadventures in Madrid, the hosts share hilarious anecdotes that capture the unpredictability of city life. They also discuss the importance of safety, friendships, and wellness while navigating thrilling urban experiences. Join in on engaging conversations about personal stories and the unexpected joys of public transport.
36 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h 40min
Chris Nowinski (on CTE)
Chris Nowinski, a former pro-wrestler turned neuroscientist and advocate for CTE research, shares his incredible journey from Harvard to the wrestling ring. He candidly discusses the shocking realities of concussions in sports, particularly football, and the urgent need for better protective measures. Highlighting the dangerous culture surrounding youth sports, Nowinski stresses the importance of mental health awareness and informed consent for young athletes. His insights challenge common perceptions about athlete safety, offering a powerful call to action for lasting change.
28 snips
May 12, 2025 • 2h 5min
Mo Amer
Mo Amer, an award-winning comedian and actor known for his Netflix show, shares his journey from Palestine to Kuwait and the impact of the Gulf War on his childhood. He discusses the unique blend of humor and trauma in his storytelling, revealing how his father's engineering background influenced his life. Mo also touches on the pressure of cultural representation in comedy and the emotional rediscovery of lost family memories through home movies. His experiences navigating identity and performance anxiety resonate with many, making for a deeply relatable conversation.
10 snips
May 9, 2025 • 1h 1min
Armchair Anonymous: Cults II
Dax and Monica dive into gripping stories about escaping cults, revealing the emotional weight of rebranding identities. They explore improv, meditation, and the allure of charismatic leaders during surreal retreats. The podcast takes a humorous turn discussing unexpected wealth and the complexities of life in closed communities. Personal anecdotes illuminate the dark yet absurd realities of cult life, while emphasizing the vital importance of mental health resources and supportive networks. A blend of lighthearted reflections and poignant truths makes for a captivating discussion.
84 snips
May 7, 2025 • 1h 57min
Michael Lewis (on the gambling epidemic)
Join bestselling author and journalist Michael Lewis as he dives into the alarming rise of the gambling epidemic among young men. He shares intriguing stories from his Wall Street days and the chaotic art market, highlighting the addictive nature of trading and sports betting. Michael also reflects on the personal cost of pursuing one’s passion over societal expectations. With a sharp critique of how these issues affect individuals and society, he underscores the importance of understanding the risks and realities of gambling.
43 snips
May 5, 2025 • 1h 40min
Jon Bernthal
Jon Bernthal, an Emmy Award-winning actor, shares insights from his diverse career and personal life. He discusses how embracing his scruffy appearance has influenced his roles and emphasizes teaching his kids emotional resilience. Jon reflects on his artistic growth from attending acting school in Russia, blending his love for theater and sports, even making money playing baseball. He also delves into the values he gained from a Quaker upbringing, shedding light on anger management through boxing and the importance of sincerity in interactions.
13 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 1h 52min
Susan Morrison (on Lorne Michaels)
Susan Morrison, a journalist and author known for her work at SPY Magazine and The New Yorker, dives into the intriguing life of Lorne Michaels. She discusses the unique blend of comedy and journalism during her time at SPY. Topics include the significance of humor as a universal language and how Lorne's experiences shaped his production brilliance at SNL. With insights on the evolution of live comedy and the art of audience engagement, Morrison highlights SNL's impact on entertainment and shares personal anecdotes that reveal the quirks of the industry.
17 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 1h 54min
Anthony Anderson
In this engaging conversation, Anthony Anderson, an Emmy-nominated actor and comedian best known for his roles in Black-ish and Law & Order, shares a hilarious story about breaking a Guinness World Record for hitting a golf ball with an unusually long club. He humorously speculates on Stevie Wonder’s eyesight and recounts the amusing saga of trying to cash in on a dinner promise from Lionel Richie. Delving into family legacy, Anthony also reflects on the lasting impact of losing his father while highlighting his journey through grief and nostalgia.
