10 podcasts like Armchair Expert that explore the messy, funny, human stuff

If you love Armchair Expert, you’re probably someone who craves thoughtful conversations, unexpected laughter, and a whole lot of honesty. Whether Dax Shepard is interviewing a celebrity, a scientist, or a close friend, the magic lies in the mix of depth and humor, where things feel unscripted, real, and refreshingly human.

There are other shows that offer that same blend of curiosity, empathy, and charm. Here are 10 podcasts like Armchair Expert to add to your queue. One you might not have heard of (yet) that deserves a spot in your rotation.

1. WTF with Marc Maron

A classic in the genre, Marc Maron’s podcast is raw, neurotic, and deeply insightful. He brings a therapist’s ear and a comic’s edge, creating space for real emotion and strange tangents.

Why it fits: Like Dax, Marc isn’t afraid to get personal and his interviews often reveal more about the host than the guest.

2. SmartLess

Hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, SmartLess is what happens when you mix celebrity friendships with spontaneous curiosity. Every episode features a surprise guest and plenty of roasting, mixed in with moments of real connection and warmth.

Why it fits: If you love the banter on Armchair Expert, this one’s for you.

3. We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle

Hosted by author Glennon Doyle, her wife Abby Wambach, and sister Amanda, this podcast is like sitting in on a family therapy session. In a good way. They talk about vulnerability, parenting, healing, and being human.

Why it fits: Honest, unfiltered, and often funny in unexpected ways.

4. You Made It Weird with Pete Holmes

Comedian Pete Holmes explores spirituality, creativity, identity, and comedy, often all in one breath. His interviews are long, weird, and surprisingly heartfelt.

Why it fits: Both Dax and Pete bring emotional depth and irreverent humor to topics many people avoid.

5. The Midnight Miracle

Hosted by Dave Chappelle, Yasiin Bey (Mos Def), and Talib Kweli, this podcast is more of an audio experience than a traditional interview show. Conversations unfold organically, often over music and laughter.

Why it fits: For fans of Armchair Expert who enjoy conversational flow and unconventional storytelling.

6. Everything Happens with Kate Bowler

Kate Bowler talks with people who have faced tough moments of grief, illness, and doubt. They explore what it means to live meaningfully when life doesn’t go as planned.

Why it fits: Thoughtful, honest, and deeply human. Like Dax, Kate invites people to share their real selves.

7. The Ezra Klein Show

Ezra brings intellectual curiosity and emotional openness to his interviews with writers, thinkers, and public figures. It’s often surprising and smart without being cold.

Why it fits: For listeners who like the “Expert” side of Armchair Expert.

8. Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel

In each episode, world-renowned therapist Esther Perel lets you sit in on a real (but anonymized) therapy session. It’s intimate, powerful, and totally unique.

Why it fits: If you’re drawn to Dax’s emotional curiosity and vulnerability, this podcast delivers in spades.

9. The Great Creators with Guy Raz

Guy Raz interviews musicians, filmmakers, comedians, and artists about creativity, risk, and the behind-the-scenes stories that shaped their work.

Why it fits: Curious, generous conversations that explore the why behind the what.

10. So Many Questions…

So Many Questions… is a podcast for the deeply curious. Each episode explores who a person really is, beyond their job title or public persona. The tone is warm, honest, and lightly funny, with a focus on self, transformation, and the messy middle of life.

If you love when Armchair Expert gets unexpectedly deep or awkwardly real, So Many Questions… will feel like home.

What makes Armchair Expert so addictive isn’t just the celebrities—it’s the honesty, humor, and humanity behind every conversation. These 10 podcasts, including the quietly brilliant So Many Questions…, carry that same spirit forward in their own way.

Whether you’re walking the dog or lying on the couch wondering what it all means, these shows offer company, curiosity, and maybe even a little clarity.