

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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

15 snips
Apr 30, 2018 • 1h 43min
Chris Hardwick
Chris Hardwick shares his journey to sobriety while discussing the Dunning-Kruger effect and the allure of conspiracy theories. The duo dives into whether we're living in a simulation and how social media shapes our perceptions. Hardwick emphasizes the power of data in personal improvement and the importance of accountability in recovery. They reflect on how childhood experiences mold adult identities and the need for positivity in fandom. With a mix of humor and insight, the conversation explores mental health, humility, and the 'nerd brain' obsession.

10 snips
Apr 23, 2018 • 1h 41min
Seth Green
Seth Green, an accomplished actor, voice artist, and creator of Robot Chicken, shares fascinating insights from his diverse career. He recounts the hilarious chaos of being punked by Ashton Kutcher and how he played a pivotal role in getting Dax cast in Without a Paddle. Seth reflects on directing his passion project, Changeland, and the challenges he faced blending acting with directing. The duo also reminisces about their wild press tour, featuring zero gravity experiences and some heartfelt discussions about integrity and friendship.

12 snips
Apr 16, 2018 • 1h 59min
Katie Couric
Katie Couric, a veteran journalist and author, shares insights from her illustrious career and her new documentary series. She dives into the challenges of political correctness and the role of empathy in understanding marginalized experiences. The conversation navigates her landmark interview with Sarah Palin and the balance between work and motherhood. Couric reflects on her husband’s illness, turning personal tragedy into public health advocacy, while also addressing the impact of automation and media polarization in today’s society.

15 snips
Apr 9, 2018 • 1h 47min
Lauren Graham
Lauren Graham, the beloved actress known for her iconic roles in Gilmore Girls and Parenthood, shares insights from her colorful childhood and the lingering impact of a lack of maternal influence. She discusses her reluctance to embrace social media, alongside Dax’s strategies for managing addiction. The conversation touches on their shared love for Parenthood, the quirks of Hollywood fame, and a humorous debate on the attractiveness of a cappella singers. Graham's candid reflections provide a heartfelt glimpse into navigating ambition and self-perception in the entertainment world.

17 snips
Apr 2, 2018 • 2h 9min
Zach Braff
Zach Braff, the talented actor and director best known for Scrubs and Garden State, engages in a lively chat with Dax. They humorously tackle their uncanny resemblance and share amusing anecdotes about mistaken identity in Hollywood. The conversation dives into the emotional challenges of dating, the complexities of writing, and Zach's upbringing with therapist parents. They reflect on early experiences in the entertainment industry and the pressures of fame, all while trading laughs and deep insights about life and creativity.

10 snips
Mar 26, 2018 • 1h 46min
Anna Faris
In a lively conversation, Anna Faris, known for her comedic roles and hosting Unqualified, shares her insights on parenting and the challenges of public image. She and Dax delve into the intricacies of open relationships and the emotional trade-offs involved. They also tackle the gender pay gap and the pressures of being in a perfect relationship. With a mix of humor and honesty, Anna reflects on her divorce and the impact of pornography on young expectations, all while reminiscing about a quirky chocolate-eating adventure in Maui.

9 snips
Mar 19, 2018 • 2h 10min
Van Hunt
Van Hunt, a talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, dives into his colorful upbringing and the influence of strong mothers on his life. He discusses his unique musical process, blending R&B and comedy, and reflects on moments of solitude that fueled his artistry. Their conversation touches on the struggles of fame, financial wisdom over indulgence, and the intricacies of live performance, all while sharing laughs and heartfelt insights. Plus, catch Van's live rendition of his hit 'Being a Girl' that leaves Dax in awe!

7 snips
Mar 12, 2018 • 52min
Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres, the beloved comedian and daytime talk show host, shares her journey of reinvention and resilience. She reminisces about her nerve-wracking debut on Johnny Carson’s couch and her evolution in stand-up, embracing more poignant moments. Ellen candidly discusses the fallout from her public coming out and her role as an unexpected advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. She also reflects on the challenges of returning to comedy and creating a talk show that stays true to her authentic self while navigating the complexities of fame.

Mar 5, 2018 • 1h 46min
Adam Scott
Adam Scott (Parks and Recreation, Big Little Lies, Step Brothers) is an actor, producer and genuinely one of the nicest people Dax has ever hated. Adam sits down with the armchair expert to discuss how he fell backwards into comedy after seeking a career in dramatic acting, his hero worship of Spike Lee and the two of them discuss why they had a mutual unappreciation for the other before they met. Dax tells the story of how he unpredictably ended up on Letterman and Adam speaks about his struggle with self-worth and recognizability. They examine their differing perspectives on being a younger sibling, Dax commends Adam for taking on projects he loves and they both agree, unequivocally, that Will Ferrell is the greatest.
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10 snips
Feb 26, 2018 • 2h 11min
Pete Wentz
Pete Wentz, the bassist of Fall Out Boy and a known rock star with a heart, shares his journey from a young musician to a role model. He discusses how his son helped him out of depression and shares a funny story about James Gandolfini promoting his bar. The conversation dives into the complexities of fame, the struggle for creative integrity in the music industry, and the emotional challenges of success. Wentz also reflects on his punk roots, fan interactions, and the evolution of celebrity culture in today's social media age.


