Jerrod Carmichael Returns - Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Transcript

Dax Shepard (0:00)

Wondry plus subscribers can listen to Armchair Expert early and ad free right now. Join Wondry plus in the Wondry app or on Apple Podcasts or you can listen for free wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome, welcome welcome to Armchair Expert. I'm Dax Shepard joined by Monica Padman.

Monica Padman (0:18)

Hi.

Dax Shepard (0:19)

Hello. We have a returning guest today, Gerard Carmichael.

Monica Padman (0:23)

One of our favorite first time appearances.

Dax Shepard (0:27)

Yes.

Monica Padman (0:28)

And this one delivers as well.

Dax Shepard (0:30)

Since then he popped up pour things which was so fun.

Monica Padman (0:33)

Yes.

Dax Shepard (0:34)

On the count of three, Jarrad Carmichael. Raaniel. We were talking about that with him last time and Gerard and Jerrod Carmichael reality show and of course the Carmichael Show. He has a new comedy special out now on Max called Don't be Gay.

Monica Padman (0:51)

We love Jarod.

Dax Shepard (0:53)

We love Jarod.

Monica Padman (0:54)

He's so easy to talk to. He goes deep.

Dax Shepard (0:57)

He's a special mfer.

Monica Padman (0:58)

Yeah.

Dax Shepard (0:59)

Please enjoy Jerrod Carmichael. We are supported by Audible. Thanks to Audible for being the presenting sponsor of today's episode. We could all use an escape these days and the best way to do it audible. With over 1 million titles in their selection, there's more to imagine with Audible. We are supported by Smallwood Home. Smallwoodhome.com turns your favorite photos into gallery quality framed prints or wrapped canvases or all handcrafted in the usa, shipped in days and priced to make your whole home smile. Rob just got me the most gorgeous small wood framed photo of my Papa Bob which is now hanging in the Nashville studio and it turned out absolutely gorgeous. How many amazing pictures do you have just sitting on your phone wasting away into the cloud. Take those memories and put them on display in the real world. Having something on the wall that's personal and not just a designy print you picked up at the store can make a space feel truly your and we love that. Small wood home is a small business that takes their time to craft every single piece right here in the US no assembly lines or robots involved. Join the over 3 million happy customers who have made their house into a home with Smallwood Home right now. Get 30% off when you use code DAX@smallwoodhome.com that's promo code DAX to get 30% off your first order at smallwoodhome.com Give your memories the showcase they deserve. We are supported by BetterHelp. You know, as we are in the height of summer now, I am reminded about how important it is to be able to step away from work and manage some of that stress you collect over the work year. Workplace stress is now one of the top causes of declining mental health, with 61% of the global workforce experiencing higher than normal levels of stress. To battle stress, most of us can't wave goodbye to work. But we can start small with a focus on wellness. Therapy can help you navigate whatever challenges the workday or any day might bring. With over 30,000 therapists, BetterHelp is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 5 million people globally. It's convenient, too. You can join a session with a therapist at the click of a button, helping you fit therapy into your busy life. As the largest online therapy provider in the world, BetterHelp can provide access to mental health professionals with a diverse variety of expertise. Unwind from work with better help, armchairies get 10% off their first month at betterhelp.com Dax that's betterhelp h lp.com Dax.

Summary

Podcast Summary: Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
Episode: Jerrod Carmichael Returns
Release Date: July 14, 2025

1. Introduction and Guest Overview

In this episode of Armchair Expert, host Dax Shepard welcomes comedian and actor Jerrod Carmichael as a returning guest. Joined by co-host Monica Padman, the trio delves deep into Jerrod's personal journey, creative processes, and the complexities of fame and self-acceptance.

2. Personal Growth and Vulnerability

Jerrod opens up about his struggles with addiction and his journey towards sobriety. At [04:10], he shares, "I stopped smoking weed two years ago just on a whim, out of nowhere. I was in Paris and I was like, I don't want this anymore. And I just stopped." This candid admission sets the tone for a conversation centered on vulnerability and personal growth.

Notable Quote:
Jerrod Carmichael ([04:10]): "I stopped smoking weed two years ago just on a whim, out of nowhere. I was in Paris and I was like, I don't want this anymore. And I just stopped."

3. The Michael Jackson Legacy

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Michael Jackson, exploring his dual legacy as a groundbreaking artist and a controversial figure. Jerrod and Dax dissect the complexities surrounding Jackson's personal life and his contributions to music.

Notable Quote:
Jerrod Carmichael ([17:10]): "Michael is kind of a lesson, especially for now, where like Michael Jackson is absolutely a pedophile."

Notable Quote:
Dax Shepard ([19:06]): "He was in orgies."

4. The Burden of Self-Awareness

Jerrod touches upon the immense pressure of self-awareness, particularly for black men in the spotlight. He discusses how representing a community adds layers of responsibility and stress, leading to feelings of being trapped or judged.

Notable Quote:
Jerrod Carmichael ([10:47]): "The burden of self-awareness. Being aware of how you sound versus how someone else sounds... it's a lot to put on a person."

5. Evolving Relationships and Open Relationships

The conversation shifts to relationships, where Jerrod shares his experiences with open relationships. He candidly discusses the challenges of maintaining intimacy and trust while navigating desires for novelty.

Notable Quote:
Jerrod Carmichael ([53:06]): "I want to fuck everybody all the time."

Notable Quote:
Dax Shepard ([53:17]): "Fantasy."

6. The Impact of Public Perception

Jerrod and Dax explore how public scrutiny affects personal identity and artistic expression. They debate the extent to which artists should be held accountable for their actions versus being celebrated for their talents.

Notable Quote:
Jerrod Carmichael ([22:39]): "My belief is that everyone is in the closet about something... And the condemnation is a self condemnation."

7. Family Dynamics and Personal Anecdotes

The trio shares personal stories about family interactions, relationships with parents, and the evolving dynamics within Jerrod's family as his father battles Parkinson's disease. These anecdotes provide a glimpse into Jerrod's personal life and the influences shaping his worldview.

Notable Quote:
Jerrod Carmichael ([15:33]): "My parents were hot. Very hot."

8. Concluding Insights

Towards the end of the episode, Jerrod reflects on the importance of curiosity, acceptance of flaws, and the continuous journey of self-improvement. He advocates for embracing one's imperfections and fostering genuine connections without fear of judgment.

Notable Quote:
Jerrod Carmichael ([21:54]): "There is something to offer because hopefully your audience will age."

Notable Quote:
Dax Shepard ([24:16]): "And that's part of the letting go. Trying to go, like, well, I'm here now, and I'm safe."

Key Takeaways

Vulnerability as Strength: Embracing vulnerability leads to personal growth and deeper connections.
Complex Legacies: Figures like Michael Jackson embody both immense talent and significant controversies, highlighting the complexity of human nature.
Self-Awareness Pressure: Public figures, especially from marginalized communities, face heightened pressures of self-awareness and representation.
Relationship Dynamics: Open relationships present unique challenges that require transparency and continuous dialogue.
Curiosity and Acceptance: Maintaining curiosity about others and accepting one's flaws fosters healthier interactions and personal peace.

This episode offers an unfiltered look into Jerrod Carmichael's life, blending humor with profound insights on fame, relationships, and self-acceptance. For those who haven't listened, it's a compelling exploration of the human condition through the lens of a seasoned comedian.