Podcast Summary: Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard – Episode Featuring Alex Cooper
Introduction
In this heartfelt and candid episode of Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard, host Dax Shepard is joined by co-host Monica Padman to welcome Alex Cooper, the renowned host of the popular podcast Call Her Daddy. The episode delves deep into Alex's personal journey, highlighting her new Hulu docu-series "Call Her Alex," which premiered on June 10, 2025. This documentary offers an intimate look into Alex's struggles, growth, and the pivotal moments that shaped her into the influential figure she is today.
Alex Cooper's Background
Alex Cooper opens up about her tumultuous childhood and adolescence, marked by bullying and struggles with self-image. As a redhead with pale skin, she faced relentless teasing and physical harassment during her middle school years. Reflecting on her past, Alex shares:
"When I look back at pictures of myself, it wasn't that bad... But when I got to sixth grade and boys and everything started to change, I became aware of how I was being perceived as ugly." (23:10)
This early trauma led her to adopt coping mechanisms, such as altering her appearance and creating a facade to mask her insecurities.
The Harassment Experience
A significant portion of the episode focuses on Alex's harrowing experience with sexual harassment by her college soccer coach, Nancy Feldman. While excelling in soccer, Alex found herself subjected to inappropriate one-on-one sessions that gradually escalated from coaching to harassment. She recounts:
"Towards the end of our fall freshman semester, I started to feel her just coming over to me at practice more and asking how I was doing. I thought she was investing in me, but it became excessive." (45:03)
As the harassment intensified, Alex faced isolation tactics designed to control her both on and off the field. Her reluctance to report the misconduct stemmed from fear of retaliation and the potential loss of her scholarship. The situation culminated in a dramatic confrontation with the dean of athletics, where despite presenting documented evidence, the administration chose to side with Feldman, leaving Alex with no option but to quit the team.
"We requested a meeting with the dean of athletics... He won't open the book. He just looks at me and says, 'What do you want?'” (59:27)
Reporting and Aftermath
Despite Alex's bravery in coming forward, the university's response was dismissive, reinforcing her feelings of powerlessness and betrayal. This experience not only ended her soccer career but also strained her relationships with teammates and friends who felt powerless to intervene. Alex reflects on the broader implications:
"When you have an abuse of power, it's a ton on top of that victim. You have to climb Mount Everest and more to even feel like you have a sliver of a hope to be believed and actually be protected if you come forward." (64:52)
Making of the Documentary
Alex discusses the creation of "Call Her Alex," emphasizing that the documentary was initially intended to showcase her professional journey but evolved into a personal exposé of her past abuses. The process of filming brought back painful memories, compelling her to confront and share her story publicly. She states:
"I felt so small. Being back on Nickerson Field transported me right back to it. I have done years of therapy, but this still is so painful and lives in me." (66:35)
The documentary not only serves as a memoir but also aims to shed light on systemic issues related to abuse of power in sports and other institutions.
Current and Future Projects
Beyond the documentary, Alex reveals her upcoming venture—a dating show slated to film in Malta, tentatively titled "Overboard for Love." This project signifies her desire to explore new creative avenues and reclaim her narrative through empowering content.
"It's a working title right now, but basically it's 'Overboard for Love.' All on a yacht in Malta. I'm so excited." (85:26)
Mental Health and Therapy
Throughout the episode, the importance of therapy and mental health support is a recurring theme. Both Alex and Dax share their own experiences with therapy, underscoring the role it played in their healing and personal growth.
"I'm a man. I've benefited greatly from therapy and BetterHelp is a great option if you're looking to start therapy." (68:01)
Conclusion
The episode culminates in a moving discussion about resilience, the courage to speak out, and the ongoing journey toward self-acceptance. Alex Cooper's story is a testament to overcoming adversity and using one's platform to effect change and support others facing similar struggles.
"I'm so proud of myself for telling this story. I could have made it a docu-series. There's so much more to this, but I really think it is such a huge part of why I am the way I am and why I have the conversations I do on my podcast." (75:00)
Notable Quotes
- "When I look back at pictures of myself, it wasn't that bad... But when I got to sixth grade and boys and everything started to change, I became aware of how I was being perceived as ugly." – Alex Cooper (23:10)
- "We requested a meeting with the dean of athletics... He won't open the book. He just looks at me and says, 'What do you want?'" – Alex Cooper (59:27)
- "When you have an abuse of power, it's a ton on top of that victim. You have to climb Mount Everest and more to even feel like you have a sliver of a hope to be believed and actually be protected if you come forward." – Alex Cooper (64:52)
- "I'm so proud of myself for telling this story. I could have made it a docu-series. There's so much more to this, but I really think it is such a huge part of why I am the way I am and why I have the conversations I do on my podcast." – Alex Cooper (75:00)
Final Thoughts
This episode of Armchair Expert is a profound exploration of personal trauma, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Alex Cooper's openness offers listeners a deep understanding of the challenges she faced and her ongoing commitment to healing and advocacy. The episode not only highlights her professional achievements but also paints a poignant picture of her personal battles and triumphs.
For those interested in learning more about Alex Cooper's story, watching her Hulu docu-series "Call Her Alex" is highly recommended.