Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard: "Chelsea Handler Returns Again" – Episode Summary
Release Date: February 10, 2025
Guest: Chelsea Handler
Hosts: Dax Shepard, Monica Padman
Additional Participants: Kristen Bell
Introduction
In this special episode of Armchair Expert, host Dax Shepard welcomes back the multifaceted Chelsea Handler. Joined by co-host Monica Padman and occasional insights from Kristen Bell, the conversation delves deep into Chelsea's personal journey, her latest endeavors, and reflections on life at fifty.
Celebrating Milestones: Chelsea's 50th Birthday and Book Release
Chelsea Handler marks a significant milestone by celebrating her 50th birthday, coinciding with the release of her new book, "I'll Have What She's Having." Dax humorously remarks on the symmetry of releasing her book on her 50th birthday, to which Chelsea responds:
"[04:17] Chelsea Handler: I do a little bit. Because 25 is a good, solid, round number... I was like, you know what? Let's blow it out. It's my 50th birthday. Let's release the book on my 50th birthday."
She plans to celebrate with combined book and birthday parties in various locations, including New York, Whistler, and Los Angeles.
Reflections on Aging and Personal Growth
The discussion transitions to societal perceptions of turning fifty. Chelsea shares her skepticism about clichéd affirmations like "I'm sexier than ever," emphasizing genuine self-awareness over superficial statements:
"[10:52] Chelsea Handler: One thing I did hear that I thought was good is that you get to this age and you're not preoccupied with the past and you're not preoccupied with the future. You are more present and living in the moment..."
Dax complements this by expressing his own feelings about aging, noting a blend of youthful enthusiasm and mature physical health:
"[10:07] Dax Shepard: Libido's thriving... Physically, I probably am in the best shape of my life."
Personal Stories: Travel, Health, and Relationships
Chelsea recounts her recent travels to New Zealand and Australia, highlighting moments that tested her patience and adaptability, such as adjusting to mask-wearing and dealing with unexpected mishaps during flights:
"[07:52] Dax Shepard: Wow."
"[08:37] Chelsea Handler: An hour into this flight and I'm fucking ruined. I've peed on myself. I have fucking vodka and orange juice over my shirt."
She also touches on the challenges of maintaining personal relationships, including her enduring partnership with Dax and raising two daughters.
Sobriety and Mental Health
A significant portion of the conversation centers on Chelsea's journey through sobriety and therapy. She shares candidly about her experiences with panic attacks, the importance of self-awareness, and the transformative impact of therapy:
"[24:08] Chelsea Handler: I have a therapist, but that was a very intense two-year period when I did go to therapy."
Dax relates by discussing his own therapeutic journey, highlighting the parallel paths they share in overcoming insecurities and building resilience.
Honesty and Vulnerability in Relationships
Chelsea emphasizes the value of honesty and vulnerability, both in her personal life and within the entertainment industry. She shares anecdotes about facing difficult conversations and the strength it takes to maintain authentic relationships:
"[54:05] Chelsea Handler: I wanted to be the person that when you ask me a question, I am giving you an honest answer. Even if it's hurtful."
This commitment to transparency is further illustrated through stories involving interactions with influential figures like Jane Fonda and navigating public perceptions.
Navigating Substance Use
The episode delves into the nuanced relationship Chelsea has with alcohol and drugs. She discusses mindful consumption versus habitual use, the importance of self-control, and strategies for maintaining balance:
"[44:04] Chelsea Handler: And I can go out to dinner and have a drink. I can go out to dinner and have three drinks... I don't get wasted anymore."
Dax adds his perspective, advocating for moderation and understanding personal limits:
"[49:50] Chelsea Handler: ...I would be like, okay, can I do anything else?"
"[49:50] Dax Shepard: Until I said in my AA voice, you don't have to do that forever. You just have to do that today."
Support Systems and Mentorship
Both hosts reflect on the absence of mentorship in their early careers and the value of having mentors later on. Chelsea shares her desire to empower younger generations by fostering authenticity and self-assurance:
"[63:11] Chelsea Handler: ...I want every young person to feel seen. I want every young person to feel confident."
Dax echoes the importance of mentorship, acknowledging his own challenges in seeking guidance and the positive impact it has had once he did.
Humorous Anecdotes and Light-Hearted Moments
Interspersed with deep conversations are moments of levity, including stories about accidental double underwear and amusing interactions with mutual friends. These light-hearted segments showcase the genuine camaraderie between the hosts and guests.
"[73:03] Dax Shepard: I blew past it, and then it was just a fun discovery. Wow."
Conclusion
The episode culminates with reflections on resilience, the cyclical nature of success and failure, and the enduring importance of genuine relationships. Chelsea's candid storytelling paired with Dax and Monica's supportive dialogue offers listeners a rich blend of humor, introspection, and heartfelt insights.
"[89:57] Dax Shepard: ...But the biggest takeaway from that relationship was a. That I was able to be in love in a vulnerable, mature, healthy way."
Notable Quotes:
- "[04:17] Chelsea Handler: Let's blow it out. It's my 50th birthday. Let's release the book on my 50th birthday."
- "[10:05] Chelsea Handler: Yeah, I'm having a lot of sex, for sure. That's great."
- "[24:08] Chelsea Handler: I have a therapist, but that was a very intense two-year period when I did go to therapy."
- "[54:05] Chelsea Handler: ...I am giving you an honest answer. Even if it's hurtful."
Final Thoughts
Chelsea Handler's return to Armchair Expert is a compelling exploration of personal growth, the complexities of aging, and the power of honesty. Her openness serves as an inspiration for listeners navigating their own life challenges, underscoring the show's commitment to celebrating the messy, human journey.
For more episodes, follow Armchair Expert on the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform.