023 - Taylor Swift & Friends

🎙️ Midnight Cheesecake’s “Taylor Swift & Friends” In this episode, Ruha and Bekah are joined by our dear friend Devyn to talk about the one and only Taylor Swift. We're taking a break from true crime documentaries for a conversation that's like a glittery friendship bracelet of joy, nostalgia, and pop culture love. We dive into Taylor’s evolution, her relatability, and why she’s basically everyone’s bestie - even if you didn’t know you were a Swiftie. We kick things off by introducing Devyn, who’s not just a longtime listener but also the first friend Bekah made in Tennessee (cribbage was involved). Then we jump into all things Taylor - from Eras Tour movie watch parties to friendship bracelet crafting and the emotional rollercoaster of her discography. Taylor Swift is more than a pop star. She’s a mainstay cultural anchor, a poetic force, and a reminder that art, friendship, and a good cry in the car are what make life beautiful. We talk about her engagement to Travis Kelce, her philanthropic efforts, and why her wedding will probably break the internet. We also share our top five Taylor songs (“Marjorie” will wreck you), reminisce about the A-hug-from-Taylor-Swift campaign at Auburn University, and reflect on how her lyrics have helped us process grief, joy, and everything in between. Whether you’re a diehard Swiftie or just discovering her magic, this episode is for you. 🎬 Taylor Swift’s Store: https://store.taylorswift.com/ The Hug From Taylor Swift Campaign (Auburn): https://www.facebook.com/hugfromtaylorswift and this article: https://www.wsfa.com/story/12378387/taylor-swift-stops-at-auburn-university-for-a-hug/   📚 Spot’s Playground Picks The Stars Are Dying by Chloe C. Peñaranda: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62957189-the-stars-are-dying Hollow Knight: Silksong (Team Cherry): https://www.hollowknightsilksong.com Dracula by Bram Stoker (free online edition): https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/345   🍰 Cozy Comforts & Feel-Good TV Nightingale Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwiches: https://www.nightingaleicecream.com Costco Chocolate Birthday Cake (yes, it’s iconic) Sticky Toffee Pudding Recipe Ruha's husband uses: https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/marys_sticky_toffee_41970   🍰 Find Ruha and Bekah Around These Parts INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527 TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (The 'e' wouldn't fit) EMAIL US: [email protected]   0:06  Introduction to Devin 2:59  Taylor Swift Phenomenon 4:53  Concert Experiences 6:49  Album Releases and Swag 14:09  Taylor's Influence and Evolution 24:22  Philanthropy and Relatability 28:30  Fun with Taylor Swift 33:07  Favorite Taylor Swift Songs 38:39  Predictions for Taylor's Wedding 39:29  Spot's Playground 45:05  Midnight Snacks 47:00  Closing Remarks