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
29 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 2h 16min
Billy Crudup
Billy Crudup, an Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor renowned for roles in Almost Famous and The Morning Show, chats about his complex family dynamics, revealing how having a dreamer for a father shaped his life. He discusses his journey in acting, the pivotal moment that solidified his passion, and the stability he strives to provide for his own son. Billy also reflects on his experiences with widely known filmmakers, the impact of early roles, and his thoughts on navigating fame while maintaining creative integrity.
23 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 47min
Armchair Anonymous: Unexpected Orgasm II
In this engaging discussion, listeners share their jaw-dropping unexpected orgasm tales. Betsy recalls an unforgettable family safari trip in India, where a bumpy ride led to a surprise climax. Kylie shares her teenage experience of riding a thoroughbred bareback, leading to an intense and surprising moment in the indoor arena. Meanwhile, Cynthia opens up about her struggles with persistent genital arousal disorder, detailing her journey through medical challenges and the relief she found through shockwave therapy. These stories highlight the unpredictability of pleasure.
91 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 2h 12min
Mel Robbins (on the Let Them Theory)
Mel Robbins, a best-selling author known for The 5 Second Rule and The Let Them Theory, shares her inspiring journey from struggling in college to becoming a motivational speaker. She discusses the importance of learning to get out of bed when you don’t feel like it and how this simple skill can change lives. Mel introduces her Let Them Theory, encouraging acceptance and personal empowerment in relationships. She also explores the neuroscience behind her Five-Second Rule, which has helped countless people through crises.
Nov 11, 2025 • 55min
Mom's Car: Larry Trilling
Larry Trilling, a talented television and film director known for his work on Parenthood, shares insights from his creative journey. He recounts his early days making Super 8 films and attending Santa Monica High with notable classmates. Larry discusses the nuances of directing TV, from blocking to nurturing actor performances, and reveals his favorite films and the impact they had on his life. The conversation touches on the potential for a Parenthood revival, sparking nostalgia and enthusiasm for the series.
50 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 1h 29min
Anthony Hopkins
In this engaging conversation, Sir Anthony Hopkins, the celebrated Academy Award-winning actor, shares insights from his memoir, We Did Okay, Kid. He reflects on his childhood during WWII in Wales and the challenges of feeling like an outsider. Hopkins recounts a pivotal moment at the YMCA that ignited his acting career, the impact of Laurence Olivier's mentorship, and his journey to sobriety. He offers powerful advice for young people about perseverance and self-belief, while also revealing his passion for music and painting.
10 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 49min
Armchair Anonymous: Wild Card IX
This episode features four anonymous callers sharing wild and unexpected stories. Nikki recounts a terrifying slackline accident resulting in an unforgettable ER visit. Riley shares a chilling account of a manipulative acquaintance from college who staged a fake crisis. Christina brings a bizarre twist with her tale of finding a dead rodent in her water bottle after a trip. Lastly, Zelda shares her harrowing experience of getting lost while hiking and her dramatic helicopter rescue. Each narrative blends humor and horror, making for an engaging listen!
11 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 2h 5min
Malala Yousafzai (education activist)
Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and education activist, shares her incredible journey from a normal life in Pakistan to becoming a global voice for girls' education. She discusses the impact of Taliban restrictions that sparked her activism, her struggle to fit in after the attack, and the emotional weight of her recognition. Malala reveals her relationship with her husband, the power of therapy for mental health, and the bravery in embracing vulnerability through her memoir, Finding My Way.
Nov 4, 2025 • 50min
Mom's Car: Ryan Hansen
Ryan Hansen, an actor and comedian known for his roles in *Veronica Mars* and *Party Down*, shares hilarious and heartfelt stories from his youth. He recalls feeling famous at church, influenced by his pastor father. Together with Dax and Aaron, Ryan dives into mischievous teenage antics, including a legendary redheaded troublemaker and embarrassing first sexual encounters. The trio humorously reflects on the ups and downs of high school life, from acting out as an escape to awkward sexual experiences involving everything from rocks to Jell-O.
38 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 2h 8min
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon, an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Academy Award-winning actor, shares insights from her life and career. She reminisces about her childhood in Germany and how her adventurous parenting contrasts with her upbringing. The conversation dives into the evolution of romcoms and modern dating dynamics, alongside her bold audition for 'Election.' Reese reveals the journey of co-writing her novel 'Gone Before Goodbye' with Harlan Coben and reflects on the power of female collaboration in projects like 'Big Little Lies.'
6 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 48min
Armchair Anonymous: Babysitting II
In this episode, a courageous nurse shares a wild story involving a new babysitter, her kids, and a sudden mall shopping spree that racked up $340 without permission. She describes her confrontational texts with the sitter and decides to part ways after defensive replies. Another caller narrates a shocking childhood babysitting experience, revealing how a friendly tutor turned out to have serious mental health issues. They all reflect on safety and the unpredictability of people, delivering a blend of humor and cautionary tales.
