Monica Padman on Building Her Career & Finding Her Voice

In this episode, I sit down with Monica Padman, co-host and producer of Armchair Expert, for a conversation about her journey from aspiring actress to babysitter to speech writer to podcasting powerhouse. Monica shares how she navigated career pivots, the evolution of her role as co-host with Dax, and building confidence in real time. We dive into the behind-the-scenes of producing and editing episodes and new podcasts she’s created (like Beth’s Dead). Monica also talks about the impact of sharing her egg freezing journey publicly, the value of friendships, dealing with imposter syndrome, and recently being nominated for a Golden Globe. Finally, we dive into her favorite Armchair Expert moments, dream guests, our shared Friends obsession, and the process of moving into her new home!

Key Takeaway / Points:

• Sharing my love for Armchair Expert as a long-time listener and Armcherry

• Monica’s career evolution from nannying for Kristen Bell & Dax Shepard to becoming a co-creator and co-host of one of the top podcasts

• How Monica built her confidence, found her voice, and developed her unique co-hosting style

• Behind-the-scenes of booking, producing, and editing Armchair Expert episodes

• How her relationship with Hollywood and celebrities has changed as a fangirl

• Navigating opinions and feeling protective of her guests

• What it was like sharing her egg freezing journey publicly, her current stance on family planning, and maintaining female friendships in different life stages 

• Monica on the feeling of belonging, experiencing imposter syndrome, and her recent experience at the Golden Globes

• Favorite Armchair moments, dream guests, and what guest surprised her the most

• Rapid fire: Monica’s favorite hosting recipes, favorite TV show, current fashion pick, and most valuable lessons learned from Kristen & Dax

Listen to Armchair Expert HERE

Listen to Beth’s Dead HERE

Follow Monica:

Instagram: @mlpadman

Follow me:

Instagram: @cameronoaksrogers

Substack: Fill Your Cup

Website: cameronoaksrogers.com

TikTok: @cameronoaksrogers

Youtube: Cameron Rogers