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
5 snips
May 30, 2025 • 40min
Armchair Anonymous: Cruise Ship
Get ready for an amusing journey aboard a cruise ship, where personal tales include a chaotic spring break adventure and a honeymoon filled with unexpected mishaps. The hosts dive into the hilarity of cruise disasters, exploring everything from awkward chafing to encounters with sea urchins. Nostalgia takes center stage with a wild Backstreet Boys cruise experience and reflections on parenting and family life. Amidst the laughter, there's a heartfelt discussion on reclaiming personal stories and resilience against adversity.
41 snips
May 28, 2025 • 2h 4min
Scott Payne (retired undercover FBI Agent)
Scott Payne, a retired FBI Special Agent and author, shares gripping stories from his 28-year undercover career. He recounts his initiation into undercover work with biker gangs and the moral dilemmas of betraying trust for justice. Scott delves into infiltrating extremist groups, discussing a surreal goat sacrifice ritual and the psychological challenges of his role. He emphasizes the necessity of empathy while navigating the dangerous world of crime and extremism, blending thrilling anecdotes with profound insights on accountability and personal growth.
17 snips
May 26, 2025 • 1h 48min
Nick Kroll Returns
Nick Kroll, a talented comedian and creator behind 'Big Mouth', dives into a whirlwind of entertaining topics. He shares the quirky reason he turned down kissing Dax's wife and his desire for a sponsorship with Kleenex. Kroll reflects on the success of 'Big Mouth' and the emotional support from his wife that drives his passion. From producing a cross-country intervention for a friend to discussing the hilarities of fatherhood and online shopping, he seamlessly blends humor with heartfelt anecdotes about creativity and family life.
May 23, 2025 • 42min
Armchair Anonymous: Kind Gesture from a Stranger
Dax and Monica dive into touching stories of kindness from strangers that make a real impact. One tale features a Jacksonville musician who finds unexpected support from a defense attorney, sparking a memorable bond. They share humorous hiking misadventures, highlighting technology's safety role with a twist. Another heartfelt story reveals a realtor's selfless act amid personal challenges during the pandemic. The conversation captures the ripple effects of kindness, blending laughter with poignant reflections on community and compassion.
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.
