Midnight Cheesecake

Homecoming & Returning to the People Who Knew YouSomehow we blinked and suddenly it was time to record again — and naturally, the universe greeted us with a full buffet of tech gremlins. Bekah’s headphones refused to headphone, Ruha’s right eye refused to eye, and at one point the microphone simply gave up on life. But did we stop? No. We podcasted through the static like long‑distance besties do. Because what's the alternative? Hanging up??This week, we’re talking homecoming — the kind that sneaks up on you when you return to a place, a group, or a moment in your life that still knows you by heart. Ruha just got back from her high school reunion, and Bekah spent the weekend in Pennsylvania soaking up family time, cousin chaos, and that familiar “I never want to leave… until I want my own bed” energy.We also talk about legendary families that bring a school community together, the magic of small‑school bonds, the emotional whiplash of Sweet Home Alabama when you're from Alabama and hearing it absolutely anywhere else, and why “Country Roads” is basically the unofficial global anthem of nostalgia. Plus: Darrell sightings, Girl Scout sash imposters, boba deprivation, and the karaoke betrayal heard ‘round the world, or at least in Houston.It’s cozy, chaotic, and very Midnight Cheesecake.Mentioned in Today’s EpisodeBackpack Battles - Ruha’s Spot’s Playground pick. A cozy, adorable auto‑battler she’s been loving.https://store.steampowered.com/app/2379780/Backpack_Battles/ (store.steampowered.com in Bing)Find us here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake (instagram.com in Bing) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527 (facebook.com in Bing) TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (tiktok.com in Bing) Email: [email protected]:00 – Tech Gremlins Return02:00 – Teacher Appreciation Week Chaos03:40 – Pennsylvania Trip & Cousin Time05:00 – When Do You Start Feeling Like a “Woman”?06:00 – Microphone Meltdown of 202607:00 – Artemis, Space Nerd Joy, and Stolen Valor08:00 – Meeting Daryl IRL10:00 – Media Appearances & NASA Feelings12:00 – Girl Scout Sash Shenanigans13:00 – Bekah’s Family & Shared Adversity15:00 – ASMS, The Zellners, and Generational Community18:00 – Nerd Kids Are the Best Kids20:00 – Boarding School Life & Weekend Escapes22:00 – Homecoming on the Road24:00 – The Sweet Home Alabama Breakdown26:00 – Karaoke Betrayal & Country Roads29:00 – Music, Memory, and Why It Hits So Hard39:49 – Spot’s Playground: Apple Butter & Backpack Battles

Artemis II, hope, chaos, Nutella, and the return of four very exhilarated astronauts🧁 This week, Ruha and Bekah recount the emotional rollercoaster of the Artemis II mission — from Houston send‑offs to moon‑side tears to the triumphant return home. Ruha recounts her whirlwind two weeks of space‑nerding and being recognized by NASA interns (again). Bekah brings the relatable energy of someone who meant to watch the launch but rolled her ankle and got pulled into Scrubs instead.Together, they unpack astronaut camaraderie, viral memes, the surreal beauty of lunar orbit, and why watching four competent humans do something hard felt like collective therapy. Also: Nutella in zero‑G, the Carroll Crater, and the Sally Ride question — would 100 tampons be enough for space?What we talk aboutRuha’s Houston trip: Space Center visits, book signings, and accidentally ending up at an astronaut send‑offThe very small crowd of civilians who showed up (and the NASA employees who absolutely did)The “Who’s Reid?” moment that will haunt Ruha foreverThe Artemis II launch: Bekah vs. ScrubsViral astronaut content: salutes, socks, Nutella, and the golden‑hour braid admired ‘round the worldThe Welcome Home parade at Johnson Space Center and putting out a 3‑million‑view video for the history booksEarthjoy, Moonjoy, and the collective sigh of relief when the capsule splashed down safelyWhat in Spot's Playground?Bekah: The Bible Is Funny card game - chaotic scripture pairings, out‑of‑context verses, and the perfect Galentine’s‑night energyRuha: Miniature kits from Anavrin — thick, high‑quality pieces, no painting required, and the perfect pre‑Japan‑trip cozy craftFor Midnight CheesecakeRuha: Girl Scout Lemonades — buttery, bright, melt‑in‑your‑mouth perfectionBekah: A vintage‑mold rainbow Jell‑O masterpiece made by Devon (friend of the pod, hype girl, legend)Final ThoughtsThis episode is pure joy — moon joy, earth joy, and the joy of watching your besties process a historic moment in real time. If you needed hope, wonder, or just a reminder that humans can still do beautiful things together… this one’s for you.

🍰 Midnight Cheesecake — Trending in Snuggle Premium, ApparentlyAfter an unintentional two‑week break (time blindness strikes again), Bekah and Ruha are back with cozy vibes, spring weather updates, and the kind of long‑distance bestie energy that feels like slipping into stretchy pants.Right out of the gate, we we apologize for the two weeks that we just didn’t post. “Has it been two weeks? My God.”And yes — a Peanuts Halloween sweatshirt makes an appearance. In April.The pod is apparently climbing the charts in categories we didn’t know existed:#11 — Midnight Listening#8 — Light Topics#3 — Snuggle Premium (still no idea what this means, but we’ll take it)Shoutout to Andrea from PodSEO, who keeps emailing Ruha about “bad patterns,” prompting the immortal line:“Are we a bad pattern? Are we the problem?”Ruha surprises Bekah with a Parks and Recreation quote‑guessing game — 50 quotes, counting backwards, more or less.Bekah absolutely crushes the early rounds, nailing April, Andy, Ron, and Leslie with psychic accuracy.Some gems:“When they say 2% milk, I don’t know what the other 98% is.” — Andy“There’s only one thing I hate more than lying. Skim milk…” — Ron Swanson“Guys love it when you can show them you’re better than they are at something they love.” — LeslieWe also get curveballs from Craig (“It’s incurable!”), Donna (“I rolled the window down for him”), and the fever‑dream brilliance of Jean‑Ralphio.The legend of Bekah's dog, Duke, returns with his signature squeaker chaos — except the squeaker was not a toy.“He had ripped it out of another toy… he was just carrying around the squeaker itself.”A proud, chaotic king.It’s Bekah’s birthday! 🎉Her phone battery is melting from all the messages, and Ruha is extremely proud that her gift will arrive before Bekah’s did.“It may be late, but it the contest of Ruha versus Bekah, I still won.”This week’s cozy recs:Project Hail MaryBekah saw it in theaters and LOVED it — so much she’s taking the girls to see it again.https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1200263/Artemis II Mission - Humans return to the moon!Ruha and family attended the astronaut departure from Johnson Space Center.https://www.nasa.gov/artemis-ii/For All Mankind (on AppleTV)Ruha finally started this show she now highly recommends:https://tv.apple.com/us/show/for-all-mankind/umc.cmc.4sr43xlyp5s3t6dzlqf4y5p7x ⏱️ Chapters0:16 — Welcome to the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast1:33 — Apologies for the Delay4:41 — Trending and Statistics4:53 — Updates and Fun Topics6:57 — Secrets from Parks and Rec15:30 — Character Quotes and Guesses18:55 — Exploring Pop Culture References20:39 — Insights on Relationships and Humanity29:25 — Birthday Celebrations and Treats35:15 — Special Limited Edition Donuts

✨ Bekah and Ruha Discuss Netflix's Reality Check: America’s Next Top Model ✨Welcome back to the couch, besties — the kids are occupied (for now), the dog is slurping water and squeaking his loudest toys like it’s his full‑time job, and we are settling in with warm drinks and warmer opinions. Today’s episode is a nostalgic deep dive into the cultural fever dream that was America’s Next Top Model — the marathons, the smizing, the questionable editing, the iconic photo shoots, and the impact it had on a generation of girls who were just trying to survive the cultural transition to skinny jeans.Ruha and Bekah revisit their own ANTM eras: dorm‑room marathons, cafeteria sprints during commercial breaks, and the absolute transcendence of seeing those final photos each episode. But with Netflix’s new docuseries Reality Check stirring up old memories (and new critiques), it’s time to talk about what the show got right, what it definitely didn’t, and how Tyra Banks continues to be one of the most fascinatingly intentional figures in pop culture.We get into body image, editing manipulation (allegedly), the infamous Shandi storyline, Tyra’s executive‑producer accountability (or lack thereof, allegedly), and why the fashion industry of the early 2000s was basically a lawless wasteland. And of course — we still find time to laugh, because this is Midnight Cheesecake and we cope with humor, carbs, and friendship.Settle in. This one’s juicy.Mentioned in Today’s EpisodeDisney & Pixar’s HopperThe brand‑new Pixar adventure Ruha saw with her firstborn for Spring Break - "Like Avatar, but with beavers."https://www.pixar.com/feature-films/hopperEveryday with Babs — Barbara CostelloBekah's new favorite cookbook by the TikTok legend: Internet grandma, comfort‑food queen, and the woman who can teach all of us how to host without crying in the pantry.https://www.amazon.com/Everyday-Babs-Family-Recipes-Generations/dp/074409067XFollow Us, BestiesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecakepodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecakChapters0:20 — Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast6:42 — Tyra Banks and America’s Next Top Model10:48 — Setting the Stage: Our Experiences10:50 — Reality Check: A Closer Look14:08 — The Impact of Body Image15:28 — Reflecting on Reality TV27:17 — Accountability and Choices40:52 — The Controversial Photo Shoots49:03 — Wisdom(?) and Reflection

Spring This or ThatThis week’s episode starts exactly the way all great mornings do: with Bekah flipping through her Everything Restaurant Copycat Recipes cookbook and Ruha reminiscing about Wendy’s baked potatoes like they were a core childhood memory. From Chipotle barbacoa dreams to Oprah’s baked‑potato wisdom, your besties ease into the day with the kind of warm, silly banter that makes you feel like you’re right there at the kitchen table with them.Today's main topic: It's time for a Spring This or That — the seasonal sequel to your beloved Sweata Weatha episode. Ruha and Bekah work their way through tulips vs. daffodils, rainy days vs. sunny days, lemonade vs. iced tea, and the eternal question: april showers or may flowers? Along the way, they rediscover that maybe spring is a little magical… even if it’s still the “bleh” season.And of course, the conversation winds through real life — Ruha’s emotional tug‑of‑war over her kindergartner’s first field trip, Bekah’s refusal to deliver Fluffy Fuffy to school, and the universal mom truth that gratitude matters. There’s roller derby nostalgia, meditation squirrel drama, and the revelation that peaches and mangoes might be the hill this friendship dies on.We wrap things up with laughter, a little catharsis, and the reminder that even on chaotic mornings, sitting down to pod with your bestie is the softest kind of spring breeze.Mentioned in Today’s Episode🍰Everything Restaurant Copycat Recipes Cookbook (Bekah’s morning muse — the source of her Chipotle barbacoa ambitions.)The book on Walmart.com Walk on Air by Kate Spade (Bekah’s current fragrance obsession — smells like stepping out of a summer pool with sweet sunscreen still clinging to your skin.)The fragrance on Walmart.comJeff Arcuri (Comedian) (The crowd‑work king Bekah can’t stop watching — sharp, hilarious, and dangerously bingeable.)https://www.facebook.com/JeffArcuriComedyF1 (2025) starring Brad Pitt — Apple TV (Ruha’s latest movie night pick — a nostalgic, trope‑filled sports flick complete with slow claps, underdog energy, and a questionable NASCAR‑to‑F1 transition.)The movie on Apple TVDrive to Survive (Netflix) (The next stop on Ruha’s Formula One journey — the docuseries that launched a thousand racing obsessions.)The show on NetflixGlutinous Rice Balls (Tangyuan) (The traditional Lantern Festival dessert — soft, chewy, and filled with peanut‑sesame goodness that tastes like a warm hug.)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TangyuanFind Ruha and Bekah Around These PartsINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecakeFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (The “e” wouldn’t fit) EMAIL US: midnightcheesecakepodcastChapters0:16 Kitchen Creations0:30 Copycat Recipes1:44 Podcast Rankings3:49 Spring This or That6:05 Field Trip Dilemma12:00 Balancing Acts22:08 Seasonal Preferences24:35 Nature and Weather26:34 Roller Derby Tales29:47 Meditation Moments32:30 Squirrel Encounters38:07 Community Connections40:20 Cultural Celebrations50:38 Midnight Cheesecake Treats59:01 Closing Thoughts

If I Had One ComplaintThis episode had us laughing from the jump — from early‑morning time‑zone chaos to Bekah sitting fully mic’d and ready an hour early while Duke snoozed like a perfect gentleman (gentledog? Good dog.) Things took a turn when we discovered our very first one‑star review (the audacity!), which sent us spiraling into theories about finger‑slips, secret enemies, and possibly… Joe. From there, the conversation wandered through retail misery, Diet Coke withdrawals, and the universal truth that some people just wake up choosing chaos.Today's main topic: Millennial Complaints — the “OK Boomer” list that Ruha and Bekah (two millenials) have thoughtfully assembled. From QR‑code menus to subscription services with ads, LED headlights, and the never‑ending parade of school apps, we break down the tiny irritations that unite a generation. Expect passionate rants, relatable gripes, and Ruha’s science‑girl breakdown of why LED headlights feel like staring into the sun.Along the way, we connected the story to our own lives — including Bekah's iconic “if I had one complaint” origin story from her unmedicated, lightning‑fast labor, where Joe’s biggest hardship was… his hand hurting. (We’re still laughing at that one.) And yes, we also learned that Bekah checks Instagram approximately twice a year, but Threads? Threads is her natural habitat.We wrapped things up with gratitude for the pleasant people of Oak Ridge, a plea for five‑star reviews to rescue the podcast from its tragic 4.2 rating, and a cozy reminder that complaining with your besties is basically therapy.Mentioned in Today’s Episode🍰 Gold Peak Sweet Tea (Ruha’s comfort beverage of choice — the liquid hug that gets her through retail shifts and Diet Coke withdrawals.)https://www.goldpeaktea.com/A Series of Unfortunate Events (Netflix) (The delightfully gloomy show Bekah referenced — perfect for when you want whimsy, chaos, and Neil Patrick Harris in one place.)https://www.netflix.com/Dove Milk Chocolate (The smooth, melty little square of joy that fixes approximately 87% of life’s problems.)https://www.dovechocolate.com/Find Ruha and Bekah Around These PartsINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecakeFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (The “e” wouldn’t fit) EMAIL US: midnightcheesecakepodcastChapters0:38 Welcome to Midnight Tuesday Podcast1:34 First One-Star Review5:05 The Struggles of Retail7:41 Diet Coke Withdrawal10:52 Birth Story15:07 Labor and Delivery Complaints17:09 Millennial Complaints19:07 Subscription Services with Ads22:22 Apps for Everything25:58 Communication Overload in Schools28:38 Annoying Website Features32:24 The Button Dilemma40:21 Loud Music in Restaurants43:56 Midnight Cheesecake Celebrations45:46 Rating and Sharing Requests

Midnight Cheesecake's Mardi Gras Would‑You‑Rather EpisodeThis week, your sleepy long‑distance besties are recording at an hour no human should be awake — Ruha with her retainer still in, Bekah clinging to the last sips of Diet Coke before Lent begins. What starts as a Mardi Gras check‑in quickly spirals into sugar hangovers, Galentine’s crafts, and the eternal struggle of a night owl being besties with a morning person. And then… the Would‑You‑Rather questions begin. And they are unusual.From pet cacti that tell bad jokes to jellybeans that bounce away, from miniature butlers to marching bands at the gym, from glitter clouds to spotlight disasters — your girls tackle each scenario with the seriousness it absolutely does not deserve. There’s also a brief philosophical debate about whether a magic wand would turn your hamper into a cupcake or just make it taste like one. (Netflix, call us.)Along the way, we swap stories from our own lives — a magnet‑craft soirée, the saga of Waldo the parrot (newly crowned Midnight Cheesecake mascot), and the ongoing battle of waking up teenagers before sunrise. We even revisited the iconic Tom Holland “Umbrella” performance because honestly, we don't do that often enough.We wrapped things up with a cozy chat about what we’re loving lately — including Bekah’s new study soundtrack — and a reminder that even at 6 a.m., catching up with your besties feels like coming home.Mentioned in this EpisodeHomemade‑Gifts‑Made‑Easy Would‑You‑Rather List (The chaotic source of every cactus, jellybean, and glitter cloud we debated today — bless this website for its commitment to weirdness.)https://www.homemade-gifts-made-easy.com/would-you-rather-questions.htmlTom Holland’s “Umbrella” Lip Sync Battle (The performance that lives rent‑free in all our hearts — peak athleticism, peak Zendaya, peak Spidey.)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7W4KpQpZJgk Ludovico Einaudi – Piano Music (Bekah’s new study soundtrack — soothing, cinematic, and perfect for cramming medical billing codes at 5 a.m.)https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ludovico+einaudi The Studio (Ruha's newest comedy binge — Seth Rogen, Star Studded cameos, Catherine O'Hara — what else do you need?)https://tv.apple.com/us/show/the-studio/umc.cmc.4xq4u7xj8q0q7z0g6t0z6xq0uFortune.com Subscription (The new grown‑up reading habit Ruha swears counts as “self‑care” — because nothing says relaxation like supporting journalism and staying informed.)https://fortune.comKjersti Flaa on YouTube (Ruha's favorite bad habit — Hollywood interviews, Legal drama, and the kind of content you put on while folding laundry and pretending you’re Scandinavian.)https://www.youtube.com/@kjerstiflaa Loacker Chocolate (The wafer‑y, chocolate‑y treat that will disappear from the pantry faster than anyone will admit. A true Costco bulk treasure.)https://www.loackerusa.com/products/tortina-mini-original-chocolate-coated-wafer-3-17-oz-bagFerrero Rocher (The golden‑wrapped classic — perfect for Galentine’s, late‑night snacking, or bribing your cohost into recording at 6 a.m.)https://www.ferrerorocher.comFind Us Here: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]:24 Midnight Cheesecake: Mardi Gras Edition4:17 Fun with Would You Rather6:48 Quirky Pet Choices10:13 Magical Objects and Daily Tasks12:47 Laughing Through Life's Embarrassments17:12 Dancing with Icons19:03 Hairy Decisions23:47 Hypothetical Animal Adventures30:08 Drinking Thoughts35:51 Enjoying Life and New Discoveries

Halftime Shows and Opening CeremoniesThis episode had us laughing from the jump — from Ruha’s rogue alarm to Bekah's “I swear I’m not muted” entrance — before we dove straight into the chaos of Super Bowl weekend, the Winter Olympics, and the almost‑launch of Artemis II. We spent the hour bouncing between pop culture moments, personal stories, and the kind of best‑friend commentary that only happens when you’re recording from your bedroom while your husband distracts the dog. It’s peak Midnight Cheesecake energy: cozy, chaotic, and full of opinions we’ll probably get sued for (allegedly).Today’s main topic: the Winter Olympics opening ceremony — or as Ruha put it, “Why is Mariah Carey even here?” (no hate, but yeah, like why?) We unpacked the paint‑splattered spectacle, the space‑themed staging, and the emotional athlete walk‑ins, all while trying to understand why Iceland only sent 4 athletes to the Winter Olympics?? We also dipped into the Super Bowl halftime show and commercials, Bad Bunny’s big moments, widespread twerking, and the NASA tie‑ins that Ruha swears were everywhere.Along the way, we connected the story to our own lives — including Ruha’s Fantasmic keg‑rolling saga, Bekah's Super Bowl snack spread, and a very passionate sidebar about Backstreet Boys maturity arcs. We also revisited the eternal question: why did we ever think Legolas was the one when Aragorn was right there the whole time?We wrapped things up with reflections on being Back to School as a grownup, busy-mom schedules, and the joy of watching people live out their childhood dreams. As always, catching up with your besties feels like coming home.Mentioned in Today’s EpisodeJoe Hegyes TikTok (@bequietjoe) (The caveman, the pilgrim, the Uggs — Ruha’s favorite historical himbo):https://www.tiktok.com/@bequietjoeBackstreet Boys T‑Mobile Super Bowl Commercial (The pink outfits, the blue tongue, the nostalgia — AJ forever):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= (T‑Mobile’s 2026 Big Game Ad)https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press/omg-theyre-back-again-big-game-commercialBud Light “Keg” Super Bowl Commercial (The runaway keg that unlocked Ruha’s Fantasmic flashbacks and heroic dads everywhere):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-P6OzmgCyYhttps://adage.com/article/special-report-super-bowl/why-bud-light-made-keg-star-its-super-bowl-campaign/2561236 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony – Milan Cortina 2026 (The paint ribbons, the music notes, and yes… Mariah Carey):https://www.nbcolympics.com/news/2026-winter-olympics-opening-ceremony-highlights Super Bowl LX Halftime Show – Bad Bunny (The moment he gave little Bad Bunny the Grammy and made us all emotional):https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bad-bunny-super-bowl-halftime-show-2026/ Artemis II Mission Updates (The hydrogen leaks, the March launch windows, and the dream of boots on the moon):https://www.nasa.gov/artemis-ii/ https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/nasa-delays-artemis-ii-launch-march-2026🍰 Find Ruha and Bekah Around These PartsINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecakeFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (The 'e' wouldn't fit)EMAIL US: midnightcheesecakepodcastChapters0:52 Podcast Kickoff2:07 Busy Lives, Busy Podcasts3:05 Braless Life and Socials3:20 Fun Videos and Laughter4:58 Main Segment: Olympic Excitement6:17 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony8:26 Space Themes and NASA Tie-ins10:19 Celebrity Sightings at the Super Bowl14:44 Super Bowl Highlights and Commercials15:47 Super Bowl Snacks and Parties20:02 Olympic Fashion Trends30:41 The Parade of Athletes36:44 Memories of Previous Olympics39:44 Winter Sports and Olympic Dreams42:04 The Intensity of Professional Athletes43:43 Following the Winter Olympics44:25 Midnight Cheesecake and Treats55:05 Listener Engagement and Favorites55:45 Closing Thoughts and Goodbyes

Put This On My TombstoneSome moments just brand themselves onto your soul — the ones that make you laugh until you wheeze, the ones that feel like a movie montage, the ones that have absolutely nothing to do with weddings, babies, or résumés. Today, Ruha and Bekah are celebrating the other greatest moments of their lives, and the stories are peak Midnight Cheesecake energy. I mean, the aura points in this episode are ka-chinging harder than Ruha's slots machine.Ruha kicks things off with her lifelong streak of improbable luck — the kind that wins raffles, costume contests, and, apparently, a mini‑jackpot on a cruise ship slot machine after betting ten cents. (A fortune which she immediately returned to the sea, like Rose at the end of Titanic.)Then Bekah delivers what might be the most iconic story in podcast history: the day she became a real‑life Supermarket Sweep champion at Aldi. We’re talking a 90‑second grocery dash, a news crew, an air horn, a cart full of nuts, a heroic turkey heist, and a total that absolutely smoked the other contestants. It’s chaotic, triumphant, and deeply on‑brand. Link to that below.From there, we wander into cozy games, recycled‑plastic tableware, very British pottery competitions, birthday marshmallows, PTA expectations, and the eternal question: if you had 90 seconds in any store, where would you go?Grab a slice and settle in — this episode is a warm, chaotic celebration of life’s unexpected wins.Mentioned in this episode:Bekah's Aldi Giveaway See Bekah's greatest moment for yourself. Warning: she's an absolute queen.https://share.google/QEM1y4CoSuxedr1h3The Wild at Heart (Nintendo Switch / Steam) A beautifully illustrated, cozy adventure game where you guide two runaway kids, craft potions, and command adorable Spritelings to save the forest. Bekah’s comfort‑game of choice.https://www.moonlightkids.co/the-wild-at-heart (moonlightkids.co in Bing)Replay Tableware Bright, durable children’s plates, bowls, cups, and utensils made from recycled plastic. Ruha’s longtime favorite for building a rainbow‑coordinated kitchen cabinet for kids (say that five times fast).https://re-play.com/The Great Pottery Throw Down (HBO Max) A wholesome, very British pottery competition show that will make you cry over clay and root for strangers shaping mugs. Ruha’s current creative obsession.https://www.max.com/shows/the-great-pottery-throw-down Wondermade Marshmallows Hand‑crafted, gourmet marshmallows in flavors like bourbon, lavender, and birthday cake — the perfect midnight treat.https://wondermade.com/Chapters:0:11 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake1:32 Greatest Moments Beyond Family6:52 A Lucky Cruise Experience10:07 Raffles and Surprises10:31 Fun with Grocery Giveaways17:53 Recollections of Cooking Shows24:27 Reflections on Community Service30:39 A Birthday Celebration36:37 Let's Talk about Marshmallows43:13 Exploring Pottery and Creativity48:40 Midnight Treats and DessertsFind Us Around These PartsInstagram: @midnightcheesecakepodTikTok: @midnightcheesecakeFacebook: Midnight Cheesecake PodcastEmail: [email protected]

Midnight Cheesecake 2025 Recap EpisodeThis episode felt like opening a big, cozy scrapbook with your best friends — equal parts laughter, nostalgia, and “wait, did we really say that?” energy. We celebrated hitting 1,000 downloads (!!!), revisited the episodes that shaped our little corner of the internet, and admitted that yes, sometimes the universe sends a sign in the form of a listener complaint. Duke contributed his usual background commentary (Can you hear it?), and we leaned fully into our new “embrace the chaos” editing philosophy. It’s warm, it’s messy, it’s us — and it’s exactly why this episode feels like a hug.Today's main topic: our 2025 podcast recap — a look back at favorite episodes, standout moments, and the unexpected ways this show has grown with us. We talked about the episodes that made us feel like real podcasters, the ones that made us snort-laugh, and the ones that reminded us why we started this whole thing in the first place. From heartfelt listener messages to the joy of rediscovering old episodes, this recap is a love letter to the journey so far.Along the way, we connected the story to our own lives — Christina’s “official complaint,” Adeline’s “tuff” review, Duke’s ongoing quest for airtime, and the shared chaos of recording while life happens loudly in the background. We even dipped into our current obsessions, from Yellowjackets to ACOTAR, because of course we did.We wrapped things up with gratitude, bra-burning, giggles, and our midnight cheesecake picks — crunchy folded chips and Nutella-filled wafer magic. As always, we ended on that familiar note: catching up with your besties feels like coming home.Mentioned in Today's Episode🍰Yellowjackets (Paramount+) Bekah's current TV obsession — spooky, twisty, witchy wilderness vibes with a killer cast.https://www.paramountplus.comA Court of Thorns and Roses (Book Series) Ruha's new reading adventure — the fantasy series everyone abbreviates but no one stops talking about.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16096824-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses BetterHelp The therapy app that kicked off one of Ruha's most meaningful episodes — Sweata Weatha foreva.https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/5aa5a92998b51811-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_as (Ruha's affiliate link)Folds Potato Chips Bekah's midnight cheesecake pick — the folded chips from the bag, but all of them, all the time.https://www.homegoods.com (product availability varies)Nutella B-Ready Ruha's sweet treat of the week — a crispy wafer stuffed with Nutella joy in four perfect bites.https://www.nutella.com Find Ruha and Bekah Around These PartsINSTAGRAM: 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]:24 Welcome to the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast1:15 From Complaints to Joy9:03 Favorite Episodes Recap17:33 Guest Moments and Highlights18:58 Nature and Adventure Episodes26:40 Reflecting on Serious Topics27:59 Lighthearted Conversations Ahead35:53 Fun with TV and Movies40:46 Embracing No-Editing Freedom48:21 Midnight Cheesecake Favorites

Amy Bradley Is MissingRuha and Bekah are finally back in the virtual recording room after a long break, and the reunion energy is strong. Between catching up on life updates — including Ruha’s TikTok glow‑up and Bekah gearing up for her medical billing and coding class — the episode settles into that cozy, familiar Midnight Cheesecake rhythm. The vibe is warm, a little chaotic, and full of the kind of laughter that only happens when besties haven’t talked in way too long.Today’s main topic: the Netflix documentary “Amy, Amy Bradley Is Missing.” The case pulls them straight into the mystery of Amy Bradley’s 1998 disappearance from a cruise ship — a story filled with unsettling details, emotional interviews, and theories that leave you questioning everything. They walk through the timeline, the family’s heartbreak, the eerie Barbados sightings, and the confusing witness accounts that still haunt the case.Along the way, they connect the story to their own lives — from travel anxieties to family dynamics to the universal “why do bad things happen when you’re just trying to relax on vacation” feeling. There may or may not be a moment where they spiral into the existential dread of cruise ship safety… but in a very Midnight Cheesecake way.Ruha does mention her high school friend, the ethereal, appropriately named and very much missing, Tiffany Heaven Daniels, who is never far from her thoughts. If you have any tips, please report them here: https://www.facebook.com/findtiffanyThey wrap things up with reflections on staying vigilant, supporting families of missing persons, and the importance of community awareness. And of course, they end on that signature cozy note — because catching up with your besties always feels like coming home.Mentioned in Today’s Episode🍰Ghirardelli Sea Salt Almond Dark Chocolate Squares (“Bekah's well‑earned treat of the day — the kind of chocolate that makes you close your eyes for a second.”):https://www.ghirardelli.com/dark-chocolate-sea-salt-almond-squares-61308-p‘Amy, Amy Bradley Is Missing’ on Netflix (“The documentary that sent us down a rabbit hole of theories, emotions, and cruise‑ship paranoia.”):https://www.netflix.com/Find Ruha and Bekah Around These PartsINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527 TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (that dang "e" wouldn't fit)EMAIL US: [email protected]:05 — Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast3:59 — Midwest Culture and Animal Videos11:35 — Diving into Amy Bradley43:10 — Lessons from the Amy Bradley Case51:16 — Wrapping Up and Listener Comments

On the second day of Christmas, my long distance besties gave to me... an overdue episode of Midnight Cheesecake! Hey besties, in this episode we wish you a Happy Hanukkah (which has already past), a Merry Christmas (which was yesterday) and a Happy New Year (which we have successfully timed right!) and most importantly, we wish you peace and joy and all those good things. It's been a wonderful year. From the bottoms of our carb-enhanced hearts, thank you for listening. Here's to a bright and humor-forward 2026. Did you share this episode with all your friends yet? If not, did Santa leave coal in your stocking for not knowing how to share? Let us know in the comments!   🍰 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]  

A Very Jonas Christmas and Other Season's Movies 🎄 We spent this episode wrapped up in twinkle lights and holiday chaos, giggling our way through the Jonas Brothers’ recent festive romp. (Ruha even saw a movie poster for it on her trip to Paris) From cranking up Christmas playlists to debating which brother is the “relatable everyman,” we dove headfirst into the whimsical world of A Very Jonas Christmas Movie. Amongst the celebrity cameos, magical train detours, and a questionable canal jump (ew, but also… cinematic), we couldn’t help but connect the Jonas antics to our own holiday traditions. Today's main topic: Christmas movies generally, but more specifically, A Very Jonas Christmas Movie. We broke down the plot, laughed at the brothers’ self-deprecating humor, and marveled at surprise appearances from Will Ferrell and Jesse Tyler Ferguson. Bekah’s daughter even took notes mid‑movie, proving that this holiday flick deserves at least four out of five stars. Spoiler alert: Kevin may or may not have been forgotten by Santa, but we’re here to remind you he’s still the dad‑energy glue holding it all together. Along the way, we shared personal stories — Ruha’s kids refusing to watch anything non‑animated (except for Home Alone, obviously), Bekah’s daughter moonlighting as a film critic, and our mutual nostalgia (or lack thereof) for Disney‑era Jonas chaos. And yes, we had to Google whether Home Alone: The Musical was ever real (jury’s still out). We wrapped things up with cozy reflections on our own must‑watch Christmas classics, a few snack shout‑outs, and the reminder that catching up with your besties — even while debating nepo babies and luxury candles like “Glow by Joe” — feels just like coming home.  Let us know in the comments: Glow by Joe or Wick by Nick?   Mentioned in Today's Episode Raubay Collapsible Green Screen (Ruha’s new gadget — because even holiday chaos looks better with chroma key magic): [On Amazon - Not an Affiliate Link] Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey (Bekah’s current read — silver fox wisdom and journal entries galore): [Book on Goodreads] Potsticker Soup (Bekah’s dinner plans — proof that cozy comfort food beats any holiday chaos): [potsticker soup recipe on Gimme Some Oven] A Very Jonas Christmas Movie (The holiday romp that sparked all our laughter, nostalgia, and canal‑jump side‑eye): [On Disney Plus]   🍰 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]   Chapters 0:04 Welcome to the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 0:11 The Christmas Music Era 1:28 Holiday Movie Adventures 3:28 The Jonas Brothers' Christmas Journey 6:20 Celebrity Cameos Galore 7:20 Nepo Babies in Hollywood 7:51 Jamie Lee Curtis Revelation 9:53 Must-Watch Christmas Classics 29:43 The Home Alone Musical 35:31 Fan Reactions and Reflections 45:38 Wrapping Up the Episode

Gobble Till You Wobble Happy Thanksgiving friends! Are you having the Friendsgivingest celebration ever this season, or is it another big family get together this year? For us, this episode was all about leaning into the festive spirit of Thanksgiving with another silly round of “This or That.” Buckle up because this is all about the holiday food debates that make family dinners so memorable. Let us hear your picks! We're talking Thanksgiving traditions and treats - from pumpkin pie vs. pecan pie to cranberry sauce (canned or homemade?), stuffing styles, and the eternal question of turkey or side dishes. We joked our way through quirky scenarios like parades vs. football, cookie decorating vs. pumpkin carving, and whether you’d rather wear a turkey hat or a football jersey in the family photo. Along the way, we shared personal stories: Bekah's emotional support pumpkin pie, Ruha's southern roots with pecan tart cookies, and the infamous broccoli rice casserole mishaps (yes, one year the rice was missing, another year the broccoli). We also reflected on how Friendsgiving and family traditions both shape the holiday, and how grazing on leftovers is basically the true meaning of Thanksgiving. We wrapped things up with thoughts on gratitude, community, and the joy of mixing traditions - before lightening the mood with snack talk, listener shout‑outs, and a reminder that catching up with your besties (even after a few weeks) feels like coming home.   Mentioned in Today's Episode Marie Callender Pumpkin Pie (Bekah's “emotional support pie” that lives in her freezer): https://www.mariecallendersmeals.com/pies/pumpkin-pie  Pepperidge Farm Stuffing Mix (Bekah's dad’s doctored‑up sage stuffing classic): https://www.pepperidgefarm.com/product/herb-seasoned-stuffing  Cracker Barrel Heat n’ Serve Thanksgiving Dinner (for those years when cooking just isn’t happening): https://www.crackerbarrel.com/thanksgiving  Alton Brown’s Good Eats Turkey Brine (because science makes the bird better): https://www.thekitchn.com/alton-brown-turkey-review-263072    🍰 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]    Chapters 0:06 Welcome & Thanksgiving Kickoff  1:17 Pumpkin Pie vs. Pecan Pie (and other food debates)  5:53 Cranberry Sauce, Stuffing, and Family Traditions  10:42 Green Bean Casserole & Veggie Sides  12:52 Turkey vs. Side Dishes  14:19 Thanksgiving Traditions & Holiday Timing  15:35 Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Holiday Shopping  18:03 Friendsgiving vs. Family Thanksgiving  24:12 Would You Rather: Turkey, Guests, and Gratitude  34:38 Final Thoughts, Snacks, and Listener Shout‑Outs

When Neighbors Aren’t So Perfect This episode took us from our usual laughs into something heavier: the Netflix documentary The Perfect Neighbor. After yapping a bit about balancing work, messenger traditions, and even cat mascots (because of course we did), we dove into the chaos of neighborhood disputes gone tragically wrong. Today's main topic: Netflix Documentary "The Perfect Neighbor", complete with raw body cam and courtroom footage, which showed how Susan Lawrence’s hostility toward kids playing nearby escalated into a fatal confrontation with a mom. Watching her call the cops over and over, obsess about “private property,” and ultimately shoot her gun through a closed door left us stunned. We reflected on how fear, anger, and self‑defense laws collided in this case, and how the jury weighed her actions before (SPOILER ALERT) sentencing her to 25 years for manslaughter. Along the way, we connected the story to our own lives - Ruha shared a wild encounter at a Florida convention with someone who felt eerily similar to Susan (ok but was it Susan? Let us know your thoughts), and Bekah remembered her own “Susan moments” with difficult customers. These stories reminded us how some people just thrive on conflict, and how important it is to set boundaries and protect your peace. We wrapped things up with thoughts on conflict resolution, community, and how to avoid toxic dynamics, before lightening the mood with a sweet note, macarons, and listener shout‑outs. Because even after heavy conversations, catching up with your besties still feels like coming home.   Mentioned in Today's Episode Crunch Labs Hack Pack (Ruha’s collab project — she’s building while the kids are at school) (Ruha's affiliate link): https://link.creatorcommerce.club/ir-2200009-1 Pepperidge Farm Milano Mint Chocolate Cookies (Bekah’s seasonal obsession — mint chocolate = instant holiday cheer): https://www.pepperidgefarm.com/product/milano-mint Osmo 3 Creator Camera (Ruha’s new “big girl” content creator toy — stay tuned for her first project): https://www.dji.com/osmo-pocket-3 The Perfect Neighbor on Netflix (the documentary that sparked all the reflection and debate): https://www.netflix.com/title/81709928    🍰 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]    Chapters 0:06 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake 1:58 Balancing Work and Life 5:59 Messenger Traditions 8:22 Cat Mascots and College Spirit 10:58 Netflix Documentary Discussion 24:45 The Perfect Neighbor Review 35:33 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 42:20 Exciting New Projects Ahead

Everyone's Favorite TV Besties We spent this episode laughing, reminiscing, and diving into the magic of friendships (mostly female ones) on TV. It all started with a bunch of funny videos we’d been saving for each other - because let’s be honest, nothing kicks off a good catch-up like cracking up together. From there, we got into the heart of what makes friendships so good, both on screen and in real life. We kicked it off with Rebecca and Keeley from Ted Lasso and how their bond surprises us in all the best ways. They’re so different, but they lift each other up, and that reminds us of our own friendship - how we cheer each other on with over-the-top compliments and inside jokes. Then we brought up Leslie and Ann from Parks and Rec, and how their friendship actually inspired us to be more intentional about ours. We even made it official, like a friendship proposal, bc we're extra. We pulled in other iconic duos like Penny and Amy from The Big Bang Theory, Jen and Judy from Dead to Me, and Alexis and David from Schitt’s Creek (yes, we know they’re siblings, but their dynamic is gold). Each pair showed us that friendships come in all shapes - sometimes opposites attract, sometimes it’s two peas in a pod, and sometimes it’s just about showing up for each other. We also shared some personal stories, like how we first bonded over Parks and Rec, how we gift each other little reminders of our favorite characters, and how we’ve cultivated relationships in our lives into those hilarious, supportive friendship that keeps evolving. Toward the end, we talked about how hard it can be to make friends as adults, but how worth it it is when you find someone who just gets you. We wrapped things up with snack talk (of course), a few more laughs, and a reminder to reach out to your long-distance besties. Because catching up - even after a few weeks - feels like coming home.   Mentioned in Today's Episode BarkBox Super Chewer subscription (Bekah got this for her new fur pal, Duke Kaboom) (not an  affiliate link): https://www.barkbox.com/super-chewer Nuts.com gourmet snacks (Ruha loves their sesame teriyaki almond cashew mix, chipotle pistachios, etc.) (Ruha's referral link): https://share.nuts.com/Ruha   📺 TV Friendships We Celebrated Ted Lasso on Apple TV+: https://tv.apple.com/us/show/ted-lasso Parks and Recreation on Peacock: https://www.peacocktv.com/stream-tv/parks-and-recreation Schitt’s Creek on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/80036165 The Big Bang Theory on Max: https://www.max.com/shows/the-big-bang-theory   🍰 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]   Chapters 1:17 Laughter and Videos 4:56 Instagram Broadcasting 6:03 Besties on Screen 8:13 Friendship Goals 14:19 Iconic TV Duos 26:12 Sibling Relationships 30:48 Classic TV Besties 37:13 Spot's Playground 48:04 Catching Up

Spooky Feels, Midnight Meals  In this episode we finally catch up after a busy month apart, and wow, we missed each other more than we realized. And we've missed you too! Life’s been chaotic, and we talked about how hard it can be to make time for friends when everything’s moving a mile a minute. Bekah shared what’s been going on - she started a new retail job (the bacon bits are flowing, if not the bacon itself), and she went through a rollercoaster of emotions with dog adoption. First came Odie, who sadly didn’t mesh well with the family, and then came Duke Kaboom, a goofy, slobbery Rottweiler mix who’s quickly become part of the crew. A recent rewatching of the Toy Story series in Ruha's household brought back up the discussion of childhood toys and movies - which led to a debate over which one hit us hardest emotionally. Pixar really knows how to hire emotional sadists, right? Then we dove into Halloween traditions and favorite seasonal video games. Ruha's family has a whole lineup: Plants vs. Zombies, Costume Quest, and if we can manage it, Luigi’s Mansion. Bekah's more into spooky puzzle games like Little Nightmares and Inside, which are creepy but clever. We also talked about Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and how it reminded us that family matters more than money. That led to a whole tangent about haunted hotels, advent calendars, and how Facebook knows exactly what kind of weird sweatshirts we want. (Sweet potato & Kinda rude potato? Yes please!) Halloween got discussed for its impact on broader society - how it brings people together, even if some folks are pulling back from it. We agreed that it’s one of those holidays that lets kids be kids and neighbors be neighborly. Plus, it’s fun to see all the costumes and lights, especially when Diwali overlaps and the whole neighborhood feels festive. To wrap things up, we shared what we’ve been loving lately. Ruha's newly into Sabrina Carpenter’s music, and Bekah's obsessed with jumbo satin scrunchies from work. For snacks, it was salt and vinegar chips vs. rye flour brownies—very on brand for both of us. All in all, it was one of those chats that reminded us why we do this podcast: to laugh, share, and find joy in the little things - even when life’s a bit messy.   Show Links   🎮 Seasonal Video Games & DLCs Costume Quest: https://www.doublefine.com/games/costume-quest Costume Quest 2: https://store.steampowered.com/app/275180/Costume_Quest_2 Plants vs. Zombies: https://www.ea.com/games/plants-vs-zombies Little Nightmares series: https://www.bandainamcoent.com/games/little-nightmares Inside (by Playdead): https://playdead.com/games/inside Luigi’s Mansion 3: https://www.nintendo.com/store/products/luigis-mansion-3-switch   Other Mentions Sunday State Hair Accessories, Bekah's jumbo silk scrunchies: https://sundaystate.com Bekah's annual advent calendar, LINDT Chocolate Advent Calendars: https://www.lindtusa.com/chocolate-advent-calendars Lay's Salt & Vinegar Potato Chips, Bekah's current snack of choice: https://www.lays.com/products/lays-salt-vinegar-flavored-potato-chips The King Arthur Baking rye flour Ruha mentioned, does amazing things for brownies as a 25% substitution for the regular flour (Amazon, not an affiliate link): https://www.amazon.com/King-Arthur-Flour-Flavorful-Verified/dp/B08HZJJ61J   🍰 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]   Chapters 0:12  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 4:52  Becca's New Dog 16:13  Lessons from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory 17:16  Seasonal Video Games 36:17  Halloween and Community 42:36 Spot's Playground 44:47  Midnight Cheesecake

The Great British Baking Podcast 🧁 Ready for the only kind of meditation we practice? Because this episode feels like one big exhale. Ruha and Bekah catch up after a hectic week, swapping stories about everything from car dealership drama to Bekah’s emotional surprise - finally getting a new dog (yes, there were tears). It was one of those chats where we didn’t even realize how much we needed it until we were in the middle of it. This episode is [supposed to be] all about the Great British Baking Show: how it’s our go-to comfort watch, and why it’s so different from all the loud, super competitive reality shows out there. We laughed about the little scandals (custard gate forever), shared favorite bakes, and even dreamed up our own versions - like the Great Southern Baking Show. Imagine brisket, hush puppies, and slow cookers galore. Netflix, Ruha is standing by for the producer call. Toward the end, we shared what’s been bringing us joy lately. Ruha’s deep into a Ted Lasso rewatch, and Bekah can’t stop snacking on chocolate-covered graham crackers from Joe’s Candies. YUM. We wrapped things up with a reminder that sometimes the best kind of living is a sweet treat, a cozy show, and a good laugh with someone who gets you. Have a great week besties!   Links for Today's Show: James's Go-To for Baking Recipes: www.thegreatbritishbakeoff.co.uk If you haven't checked out Noel Fielding’s art, you should!: www.noelfielding.co.uk Bekah's snack this fall - Joe’s Candies: www.joescandies.com Ruha's favorite substitute - Favorite Day snacks at Target (milk chocolate grahams): www.target.com/b/favorite-day/-/N-5xt1a 🐾 Adopt your next furry family friend - Pet Adoption & Dog ResourcesPetfinder (find adoptable dogs): www.petfinder.com ASPCA adoption info: www.aspca.org/adopt-pet   🍰 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]   Chapters 0:16  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 3:36  Podcasting After a Long Break 5:08  Great British Baking Show Discussion 13:22  Car Buying Experience 25:48  Getting a New Dog 43:32  The Great American Baking Show 44:27  Comfort Shows and Final Thoughts 50:20  Closing Remarks and Goodnight

🎙️ Midnight Cheesecake: A Hug From Taylor Swift This episode was such a ride. To kick things off, Ruha shared a hilarious tale about trying to order pizza from Whole Foods while stuck in a parking garage that felt like a never-ending maze. She kept making right turns, getting put on hold, and wondering if she’d ever escape. In some universe, she's still there, and she needs help. It was like the movie Groundhog Day, but with pizza. Then we brought on our guest, Michael Wekall, who back in college, started a goofy little campaign called "A Hug from Taylor Swift." And it actually worked. Like, Taylor Swift showed up at Auburn University and hugged them. What started as a fun idea turned into a full-blown viral moment, complete with over-the-top videos, local news stations, and eventually, video challenges from Taylor herself - like helping an old lady cross the street, and gathering 400 college students for a sing-along. Michael walked us through how A Hug from Taylor Swift all unfolded, from doing hug practice videos to getting a surprise call from someone on Taylor’s team. The moment she walked into the room? Total chaos - but wait till you hear the pure magic that happened after the day that got all the headlines.  We talked about how that experience shaped Michael’s career in video production and storytelling. He’s now running his own creative agency and still keeps in touch with the team of music industry professionals who helped make the hug happen. It wasn’t just about meeting a celebrity—it was about community, creativity, and putting yourself out there. To wrap things up, we shared what we’re into lately - books, shows, perfumes, and of course, our midnight cheesecake picks. Michael’s was a classic ice cream sandwich at the beach (solid choice), and we may or may not have plotted future hug campaigns for Pedro Pascal and Tom Hiddleston.   In this episode: 🎤 Taylor Swift & The Hug Campaign The Final Challenge campaign recap on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7p_BCIX-rw Local news coverage about the event at Auburn University: https://www.wsfa.com/story/12378387/taylor-swift-stops-at-auburn-university-for-a-hug/ The campaign's twitter page: https://x.com/ahugfromtaylor   📚 Books Mentioned And Then There Were None – Michael’s gateway into Agatha Christie’s world. He called it “phenomenal” and said it’s often considered her best. (Ruha agrees!) The Murder of Roger Ackroyd – His next pick, known for its legendary twist and a favorite among mystery fans.   📺 TV Shows Mentioned Ted Lasso – Ruha’s rewatch pick when she needed something uplifting, soulful, and funny. It’s her go-to comfort show. New Girl – Michael and his wife were rewatching this one. He called it “so, so, so good” and said it’s one of their favorites for lighthearted laughs. The Americans – Michael’s gritty rewatch. He described it as “phenomenal” and “probably the most underrated show of the last 20 years.” It’s about two Russian spies living undercover in 1980s America.   🍰 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]   Chapters Chapters 0:00  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake 0:12  The Parking Deck Pizza Purgatory 2:15  Introducing Michael Wekall 3:21  The Auburn Hug Campaign 5:56  Behind the Scenes of the Hug 8:10  The Taylor Swift Surprise 12:28  Challenges and Community Engagement 15:24  The Big Day Arrives 23:46  The Aftermath of the Hug 28:34  Global Impact of a Small Idea 31:52  Life After the Hug 32:34  Closing Thoughts and Final Questions 35:53  Leisure and Favorite Shows 39:51  Farewell and Final Thoughts 42:38  Bears in Florida?

🎙️ Worthy Work – Midnight Cheesecake Style In this episode, Ruha and Bekah take us on a ride through the kinds of work (paid and volunteer) that really matter. Not the flashy stuff, but the kind that lifts people up, brings joy, and for better or worse, gives you all the reality of human connection. We kick things off with friendship bracelets, TikTok chaos (yes, there’s a viral video involving food poisoning and a canceled flight), and stories that make us laugh so hard we snort. Then we shift gears and get into the heart of it. Ruha talks about volunteering at senior centers and organizing music events that light up the room. Bekah shares stories from her caregiving jobs - working with folks in assisted living, kids, and people with disabilities. There’s a whole lot of love in the way she tells it. We don’t just talk about big, life-changing jobs. We zoom in on the little things too - like showing empathy at the grocery store or letting someone else take the close parking spot because maybe they’ve had a rough day. It’s about noticing, caring, and choosing kindness even when it’s hard. There’s plenty of absurdity along the way - spider webs, shopping trips, and family quirks that make us feel like we’re all part of the same messy mocumentary sitcom. Through it all, we keep asking: how can we bring a little more light into the world? We wrap things up with a sweet reminder: whether we’re changing diapers, singing carols, or just making someone smile, our work matters. And when we share those moments with each other (you included!) it feels like we’re building something good together. Doesn't it? So grab a treat (Cheesecake optional), and keep the conversation going. Message us to let us know what you think!   Links List: 🎧 The Canceled Flight Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@meghanreinertsen/video/7524181190245469471 🚗 Bekah's Car Shopping Adventures (Which one will she pick?) Nissan Kicks: https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/crossovers-suvs/kicks.html Nissan Rogue: https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/crossovers-suvs/rogue.html 📚 Kindness & Empathy Reads "Radical Kindness: The Life-Changing Power of Giving and Receiving" by Angela Santomero (Bekah's current read) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43245554-radical-kindness “The Book of Simple Human Kindness” by Brian Doyle (a vibe match for Bekah’s current read): https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23508961-the-book-of-simple-human-kindness 🎶 Volunteer & Community Joy  VolunteerMatch (for finding local opportunities like singing at senior centers): https://www.volunteermatch.org/ 🧠 Therapy & Mental Health Ruha's BetterHelp online therapy referral code (2 free weeks): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/5aa5a92998b51811-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_dd   🍰 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]   Chapters 0:05 Welcome to the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 1:19 From Friendship Bracelets to Viral Stories 5:01 Uplifting Work in the World 5:34 Shopping Trips and Spider Webs 13:04 Reflections on Important Jobs 22:32 Volunteering and Its Impact 28:49 Finding Joy in Small Acts 32:07 Empathy in Everyday Life 37:40 Midnight Cheesecake Treats 40:30 Connection through Community Work

🍂 “Sweata Weatha” In this riotously funny episode of the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast, Ruha and Bekah dive headfirst (or is it feet first? Bekah's got it: butt first) into fall—sweaters, soups, Halloween, and all the cozy chaos that comes with it. We kick things off with some weather drama (spoiler: it’s not sweater weather for either of us), and then roll into a “fall this or that” game that gets us choosing between scarecrows and ghost stories, chili cook-offs and pie bakes, and even acorns vs. pinecones. We're vibing all things cozy. Ruha opens up about starting therapy through BetterHelp, and we talk through what it’s like to finally take that step (she has an upcoming family wedding and this seemed like good prep work). It’s honest and super relatable—especially when Bekah jumps in with her own experiences, and we feel seen and reminded that we’re not alone in the mess. We swap stories about Halloween traditions—Ruha’s trick-or-treating memories in a red flyer wagon, Bekah’s legendary graveyard cake and soup swap parties—and we laugh about decorating too early, turning the AC down just to pretend it’s chilly, and how our moms are already putting up Christmas stuff. It’s chaos, but it’s our kind of chaos. By the end, we’re all in the fall feels. We’re talking about how even a bowl of soup from a friend can carry a memory, how decorating with the kids becomes a whole event, and how we’re leaning into the joy of being proudly basic. Starbies, Targis, Chickie Sando—don’t judge us, join us. Ruha and Bekah wrap things up with their “Spots Playground” picks (hello, avocado watch and high-speed hair dryer), and we all get a little nostalgic about gummy bears and Reese’s pumpkins. It’s warm, it’s weird, and it’s exactly what we needed.   Show Links: 🧠 Therapy & Mental HealthRuha's BetterHelp online therapy referral code (you get 2 free weeks): https://www.betterhelp.com/rpc/5aa5a92998b51811-5-01?utm_term=ref_v2_dd  ⌚ Bekah's new Avocado WatchSpeidel watches (including the Avocado and Mimosa colors): https://www.speidel.com/ 💨 Ruha's new High-Speed Hair DryerTideway Silk Jet Titanium Hair Dryer (TikTok trending): https://www.tidewaytech.com/   🍬 Midnight Cheesecake Treats from this episodeAlbanese World’s Best Gummi Bears: https://www.albanesecandy.com/ Reese’s Peanut Butter Pumpkins (seasonal candy): https://www.hersheyland.com/products/reeses-milk-chocolate-peanut-butter-snack-size-pumpkins-9-6-oz-bag.html   🍰 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]   0:08 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 0:10 Sweater Weather Chit-Chat 1:43 Fall This or That Game 9:20 Self-Care and Therapy 17:19 Fall Traditions & Memories 21:51 Halloween Plans and Parties 36:05 Adult Traditions and Fun 42:27 Spotlight on Fall Favorites 48:27 Midnight Cheesecake Treats

🎙️ 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

🎙️ Midnight Cheesecake's “Unknown Number: The High School Catfish” Watch Party In this episode, we dive into the WILD RIDE that is the Netflix documentary Unknown Number: The High School Catfish, and wow—this one really shook us. It’s about a pair of small town teenagers who were cyber bulied for over a year and a half - and if you don't know who did it, stop listening and go watch it first. We (Ruha and Bekah) walk through the whole jaw-dropping story, and just try to wrap our heads around how something like this could even happen. We kick things off by celebrating how many folks are tuning in lately (thank you, listeners!), and then we jump straight into the documentary. Spoiler alert: if you haven’t watched it yet, maybe hit pause and come back later. Or not, because this conversation is just as juicy. So here’s the deal—this high school couple in a small Michigan town starts getting creepy texts. At first, it’s just weird stuff like “your boyfriend’s gonna leave you,” but it quickly turns into full-on threats and disturbing messages aimed at Lauren, the girl in the relationship. And the twist? The person behind it all is Lauren’s own mom, Kendra. We know. It’s bananas. Was Kendra looking for attention? Did she want to play the hero by comforting her daughter after causing the pain herself? It’s like a twisted version of Munchausen by proxy, but online. We talk about how Kendra used her daughter’s deepest insecurities against her, and how messed up that is coming from someone who’s supposed to protect you. We also get into how the town reacted, how the school and parents tried to figure out what was going on, and how social media and small-town gossip made everything even messier. Lauren’s friends and family were worried sick, and the texts were so disturbing that even the detective said they made him blush. One of the hardest parts to watch? Lauren still wanted her mom back. Even after everything, she said she loved her more than anyone. That part really hurts. It’s heartbreaking and shows how complicated family bonds can be, especially when trust is broken. We talk about the fallout, the finger-pointing, and how other kids got dragged into the drama unfairly. Khloe, the so-called “mean girl,” and her family got blamed at one point, and while they didn’t come off great in interviews, we get why they were upset. If someone accused our kid of something like this, we’d be furious too. As we wrap up, we reflect on how important it is for parents to be kind and supportive—not just in public, but behind closed doors too. We hope this story reminds everyone to check in with their kids, keep communication open, and be the safe space they need. We end the episode with gratitude for all the listeners and tease more juicy convos ahead. And of course, there’s some cozy recommendations and midnight snacks to round things out.   🎬 More on Unknown Number: High School Catfish Watch the doc on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81671971 Variety’s coverage we discussed of the documentary and behind-the-scenes insights: https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/unknown-number-netflix-documentary-kendra-licari-1235897654/ One of many illuminating Reddit threads discussing theories and reactions to the documentary: https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueCrime/comments/1b2xkqf/unknown_number_netflix_discussion_thread/   📚 Spots Playground Picks Radical Kindness by Angela Santomero (author page & book info): https://www.angelasclues.com/radical-kindness-book/ The Great British Baking Show on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/80063224     🍰 Cozy Comforts & Feel-Good TV Chobani Sweet Cream Creamer (because Ruha swears by it): https://www.chobani.com/products/coffee-creamer/sweet-cream/ Dunkin’ Donuts Mint Bark Iced Coffee (Bekah’s midnight treat): https://www.dunkindonuts.com/en/drinks/iced-coffee   🍰 Find Ruha and Bekah Around These Parts INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ TIKTOK at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (The 'e' wouldn't fit) EMAIL US at [email protected] Enjoying the show? Send your favorite episode to a friend!   Chapters 0:06  Welcome in. 2:08  Juicy Netflix Documentary Discussion. 5:27  Shocking Revelations Uncovered. 8:12  Exploring Psychological Aspects. 11:52  The Fallout and Accusations. 15:41  Delving into the Catfish Identity. 21:56  Investigation and Discovery Process. 25:51  Future Implications for Lauren. 27:51  Recommendations and Reflections. 33:24  Kindness and Personal Growth.

🎙️ Fit for TV (Or a Podcast) – Friendly Summary In this episode of the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast, we dive into the Netflix docuseries Fit for TV, which takes a hard look at The Biggest Loser and how it shaped the way we think about weight loss, health, and reality TV. Ruha and Bekah (we're your long distance besties) walk through the highs and lows of the show’s 17-season run, starting with a nostalgic look back at the early 2000s—when low-rise jeans and fad diets were all the rage. We talk about how the show pushed extreme transformations and how that affected the contestants long after the cameras stopped rolling. Ruha and Bekah share stories from the docuseries that show just how intense and sometimes harmful the training and competition could be. There’s a lot of disbelief over how little mental health support was offered, especially when people were being pushed to their limits. We also get into the different vibes between trainers Bob Harper and Jillian Michaels. Ruha points out how their approaches say a lot about the bigger issues in reality TV—like how far is too far when it comes to "motivating" people? Bekah brings up some jaw-dropping quotes from the show that really make us question the ethics behind it all. The docuseries throws out some pretty shocking stats about obesity in America, and we’re left wondering whether the show was ever really about helping people or just making good TV. We reflect on how reality shows like this shape what we think is “normal” or “healthy,” and whether those ideas are actually helping anyone. By the end, we’re all thinking about how powerful media can be when it comes to our personal health stories. We share their own reactions to watching Fit for TV and The Biggest Loser, mixing awe with concern. It's why we try to think twice about the shows we binge and the messages they send. In the end, wanting to improve ourselves is totally human—but the way we go about it, and the stories we’re told, really matter. If you enjoy today's show, consider leaving a review!   🎥 Shows & Docuseries we mentioned in today's episode: Netflix’s Fit for TV: www.netflix.com/title/81678162 The Biggest Loser (official site archive): www.nbc.com/the-biggest-loser Detroiters (Comedy Central info): www.cc.com/shows/detroiters Veep on HBO: www.hbo.com/veep Hocus Pocus 2 (Disney+): www.disneyplus.com/movies/hocus-pocus-2/6p4nZ4lqLwZX   🥗 Food we love enough to talk about: Taylor Farms Salad Kits: www.taylorfarms.com/products/salad-kits Trader Joe’s Plantain Chips: www.traderjoes.com/home/products/detail?id=10374   📚 Books & Podcasts you might enjoy too: The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/28641/the-handmaids-tale-by-margaret-atwood Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s podcast Wiser Than Me: www.lemonadamedia.com/show/wiser-than-me   Find Ruha & Bekah on INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ also on TIKTOK at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (there's no e, it wouldn't fit) EMAIL US at [email protected] Enjoying the show? Send your favorite episode to a friend!   Chapters 0:27 Armchair quarterbacks.   1:16 Hot Potato Documentary.   3:22 Cultural Shifts and Body Image.   5:11 Behind the Scenes Insights.   6:39 Contestants' Experiences Revealed.   12:07 Medical Research Findings.   16:18 Controversial Comments and Reactions.   20:34 Pressure and Expectations.   23:31 Judgments and Defamation.   24:21 Worth the Watch?   29:26 Wrap-Up and Reflections.   30:08 Exploring New Shows.   35:18 Salad Kits and Midnight Snacks.   38:33 Listener Engagement and Farewell.

🎙️ Midnight Cheesecake – Tiny Homes & Decluttering Chaos In this episode, hang out with Ruha and Bekah as we swap stories, laugh through some podcast bloopers, and take a dive into our real experiences with tiny house living, downsizing and minimalism. We kick things off with fantasy football night—Bekah found herself in a basement full of cave dwellers grunting over the big game while the other ladies were upstairs chatting about bugs and birds. Which is more your scene? From there, we talk about the little things that drive us nuts—like voicemails we never check and school emails we keep ignoring. Ruha blames spam calls, Bekah blames paperwork overload, and honestly, we take zero blame. Adulting is messy. Then Ruha shares a little about her journey with minimalism and tiny house life. She lived with her family in a 286 (or something)-square-foot home, yes really, and it was both challenging and beautiful. We talk joys of simple living, creative ways to make spaces work, and the reality of raising kids in such a tight squeeze. Bekah chimes in with her own attempts at decluttering, and we commiserate because letting go of stuff is way harder than it sounds. We then get into the weird world of consumerism—how we’re constantly tempted to buy things we don’t need, and how shows like Hoarders hit a little too close to home. Ruha and Bekah share stories about cords we keep “just in case,” impulse buys at the register, and guilt. It’s relatable but kind of eye-opening. Ruha talks about the bittersweet experience of moving out of the tiny house and ultimately selling it to an AirBnB group. She reflects on what she misses about simpler living and how we try to keep that spirit alive, even in bigger homes. There’s a lot of love for windows, natural light, and the kind of kitchen that warms the whole house in winter. We wrap things up with some cozy game talk—Bekah’s into Tales of the Shire, where she gets to live like a hobbit, and Ruha’s hooked on Tiny Bookshop, a game all about selling books from a mobile shop (speaking of tiny things on wheels!). It’s the perfect way to end an episode that’s all about finding joy in small things. Oh, and we hit a milestone—our 20th episode and 375 downloads! We’re feeling proud, a little goofy, and super grateful for everyone who’s been listening. If you’ve got a favorite episode, let us know. We’re ranking them soon and we want your input! Links: Ruha's Tiny House Story in the US Sun - The article that features Ruha’s journey and reflections on tiny living KonMari Method Official Site - Marie Kondo’s whole thing on decluttering and sparking joy Timbercraft Tiny Homes -  The Guntersville Alabama builder behind Tiny Blue - Ruha's old tiny house.   🎮 All the Cozy Video Games mentioned during Spot's Playground Ruha’s current obsession: a mobile bookshop with real-world literature: Tiny Bookshop Game Official Site and Tiny Bookshop on Steam Bekah’s current hobbit-life simulator, full of second breakfasts and garden quests: Tales of the Shire Game Site and Tales of the Shire on Steam For those ready to cozy up in Bywater.     Find Ruha & Bekah on INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ also on TIKTOK at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak (there's no e, it wouldn't fit) EMAIL US at [email protected] Enjoying the show? Send your favorite episode to a friend!   Chapters 1:18  Podcast Intro: The Midnight Cheesecake 2:33  Fantasy Football Fun 2:38  Ladies in the Basement 5:16  Voicemail Dilemmas 7:32  The Art of Minimalism 8:45  Tiny House Dreams 21:07  Life in a Tiny House 25:47  The Journey of Downsizing 26:14  The Fate of the Tiny House 27:29  Consumerism and Its Effects 30:43  The Impulse Buy Dilemma 36:39  Video Games and Consumerism 42:49  Celebrating Milestones 45:07  Outro and Silent Dance

🍝 Midnight Cheesecake 019: Pasta Signs & Friendship Quizzes If you’re into pasta, personality quizzes, or just want to feel like you’re hanging out with your besties, this one’s for you. Today Ruha and Bekah invite you to Quiz With Us. Pull up a laptop or an impractically tiny but readily available screen and join us for Seventeen's What Kind of Best Friends Are You? here and Buzzfeed's Pasta Buffet Zodiac Quiz here. If you're having fun, share the love and invite a friend to do the same! Today's episode opens with a funny story about Ruha's inability to communicate when she knows exactly what she meant and what do you mean you can't read my mind? But the story ends with a new favorite catchphrase courtesy of her cousin Andrew, "Raise Hale, Praise Dale." Naturally, we're adding that to a greeting card. Then we slid into a hilarious chat about our husbands and their very unique communication styles. Joe and James got ungently roasted for either saying too little or way too much. Bekah even downgraded Joe from “great freaking guy” to “okay freaking guy” for not listening to the podcast - on which he was an actual guest. The betrayal!  Then we move right into a classic Teen Magazine Quiz to prove if your best friend really is your best friend after all - We struggled our way hilariously through some Gen Z terminology that Bekah kindly translated for Ruha, who does not have a teenager in her household. But not to worry because it turns out, we're basically soulmates. We're breathing a deep sigh of relief, and taking the quiz's advice to start making joint retirement plans. After that we get really hungry choosing dish after dish of buttery, savory, cheesy pastas - sadly we only get to choose one out of every four dishes, and this goes on for long enough that Bekah gets angry about shrimp tails and Ruha eats a bag of gummies to tide her over. Ruha went for vodka farfalle and burrata pasta, while Bekah stuck with classics like spaghetti and chicken parm. BuzzFeed got our signs totally wrong - but the descriptions were weirdly accurate anyway. It's a tasty feast for the eyes you've got to experience for yourself. We wrapped things up with "Spots Playground," where we share recent finds and snacks. Ruha discovered honey-infused gummy snacks called B-Up at Target, and Bekah raved about a s’mores pie from a German brewery that "knocked her socks off." This episode has it all - food, fun, and the kind of stupid nonsense that really gives you a reason to stop doom scrolling.   Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ also at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak Email us at [email protected] Enjoying the show? Leave us a written review in your podcast app!   Chapters 0:42  Love and Laughter 3:36  Family Wedding Woes 6:52  Quizzes and Nostalgia 23:24  Friendship Tests 36:41  Fun with Food Quizzes 37:35  Redactions and Corrections 38:46  Spotlights and Recommendations

🍰 Midnight Cheesecake Recap: Our Jury Duty Obsession Spoilers but not really - In this episode, we dive into the wild and hilarious Amazon Prime show Jury Duty. Ruha she got completely hooked on the series and tried convincing everyone to watch it ASAP. Bekah finally gave in and binged all eight episodes in one day - and instantly got Joe on board too. We all agree: it’s one of those shows that sticks with you and makes you laugh out loud, as often as possible. The show follows Ronald Gladden, a regular guy who thinks he’s part of a documentary about jury duty. What he doesn’t know is that everyone else - judge, lawyers, fellow jurors - is an actor, and the whole thing is staged. We can't get over Ronald’s kindness and how he treats everyone with respect, especially Todd, the quirky inventor next door. That moment when Ronald shows Todd A Bug’s Life to help him feel seen? Our hearts = puddles on the floor. We go through all the ridiculous characters: Inez judging people by their hair, Todd and his chair pants (chants, if you will), Vanessa from the Reddit Bureau of Investigation, and James Marsden playing a hilariously self-absorbed version of himself. The improv moments, like the “oof” exchange between James and Lonnie, are pure gold. Ruha and Bekah also wonder why the show hasn't been a wider sensation, and about how the show’s title might’ve thrown people off - it sounds like a courtroom drama, but it’s actually a mix of The Office and The Truman Show. Please weigh in on this, because Ruha is dying to know what's stopping you from watching it. We talk about how Ronald handled the big reveal and how it affected him afterward. Turns out, it was a lot to process, but he had support and was back to his old self in record time (plus, he has a corgi - bonus points!). We wrap things up by sharing our favorite snacks (frozen lemonade pie and Tillamook ice cream, yes please), chatting about cute tumblers and Uniqlo finds, and looking forward to future podcast episodes. We’re definitely doing one on Ted Lasso one day - Bekah has bragging rights about that one. So if you haven’t watched Jury Duty yet, trust us: it’s worth it. Eight quick episodes, tons of laughs, and a surprising amount of heart. Let us know what you think - we’re dying to hear your favorite moments!   Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ also at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak Email us at [email protected] Enjoying the show? Leave us a written review in your podcast app!   Chapters 0:13  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 3:52  The Case of Jury Duty 33:40  Reality Show Reflections 36:25  Wrap-Up and Goodnight 38:19  What's in Spots Playground? 43:36  Midnight Snacks and Sweet Treats 44:37  Connect with Us on Social Media

In today’s episode of the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast, we talk TV shows that raised these two 30-something ladies and sometimes taught us to behave inappropriately at school. We kick things off with the legendary TGIF lineup - remember this Friday night tradition? Shows like Boy Meets World and Family Matters were more than just entertainment, they were a way to bring the family together. We both share how those shows helped us make sense of growing up, and how they still hit home today. We jump back and forth into newer favorites like Modern Family. We’re both fans of its quirky cast and real-life family vibes. Ruha’s been rewatching it lately and loving how it blends humor with deeper stuff, kind of like the old-school sitcoms but with a fresh twist. We also get into the kids’ shows that stuck with us - Blue’s Clues definitely gets a shoutout. Ruha talks about how it’s influenced her parenting style, and how today’s children’s programming is all about sparking creativity and connection (and awkward crushes). Bekah brings up Zoom (the reality TV show about crafts, not the software that made digital crafts camps a reality) and how it made camp seem even more fun than it already did. Sign us up, please!  As we chat, we reflect on how screen time has changed. Back then, watching TV was a family thing - now it’s more individualized and solitary. We talk about how streaming has kind of scattered those common cultural moments, and how we’re trying to bring that sense of togetherness back with our own families. Returning to Modern Family, we also share little ways we keep family bonds strong - like remembering birthdays and doing thoughtful things that remind us of the warmth we saw in our favorite shows. Bluey gets a special mention for being the kind of show that inspires us to be more present and playful with our loved ones. By the end, we’re laughing about the shows that still live rent-free in our heads and how they shaped who we are. What are some standouts from your childhood? What shows do you love to enjoy with your kids today? Let us know in the comments.   In Spots Playground we mention: Ingeniously intricate jigsaw puzzles by The Magic Puzzle Company https://magicpuzzlecompany.com/ Good old fashioned organizers and pencil cases from the goat, H-E-B    Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ also at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak Email at [email protected] Leave us a comment or a review in your podcast app!   Chapters 0:00 Welcome to the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 2:21 Childhood TV Shows 5:36 Cable and TV Memories 11:24 Fashion and Sitcoms 12:38 Parenting and Screen Time 14:44 First Scary Movies 20:02 Blue's Clues and Favorite Shows 22:42 Reality TV and Kids 24:47 The Evolution of TV 29:35 Nostalgic Characters and Lessons 31:18 Today's TV vs. Our Childhood 34:20 Creative Kids' Shows 37:58 Family Connections 39:30 TV Shows That Inspire 43:42 Midnight Snacks and Favorites 47:38 Social Media Connections

Are you ready? In this episode, Bekah and Ruha do a pretty good job of not letting our guest, Britt, talk very much at all. And good luck suckers because even Ruha has trouble hearing the difference between hers and Britt's voice! It's another tasty episode of the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast. With our special guest, Neopets lover and Bekah's childhood friend Britt, we’re diving headfirst into the magical chaos of Neopets - a game that ruled our childhoods and with its recent revival, somehow still manages to have a hold on us today. www.neopets.com We're joined by Bekah's longtime friend Britt, who was right there with her back in the day, giggling through late-night pet adventures and figuring out how to make Neopoints (and spend Neopoints, in Bekah's case). We swap stories about how we first got hooked - those weirdly addictive mini-games, and yes, even the stock market that taught us more math than school did. Neopets wasn’t just a game for us; it was a crash course in creativity, tech, and figuring stuff out with fellow nerds. Britt shares what it’s like jumping back in as a casual player, and we all compare how obsessed we used to be versus how we play now. It’s a nostalgic trip through our favorite games, drama, and the joy of taking care of pixel pets. There’s also some fun talk about what’s new - like the mobile apps, YouTube AMAs, and how the team behind Neopets is trying to keep things fresh (Looking at you, Comic-Con) while still giving longtime fans warm fuzzy feelings through great storytelling. Britt gives us the scoop on her premium membership and how she’s supporting the game’s glow-up. And of course, we couldn’t resist sharing our go-to childhood snacks and what parts of the new Neopets world we’re loving most, like Tales of Dacardia and Faerie Fragments. It’s a cozy episode that reminds us why we keep coming back to this quirky little universe. Neopets still brings us joy, and honestly, that’s what it’s all about. Enjoy, and drop us a line letting us know what you think! This is our Neopets affiliate link: https://shop.neopets.com/9414961   Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ also at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak Email at [email protected]   In Spot's Playground we talked about: Criminal Minds which is in its 18th season and can be watched on Disney+ Freakier Friday starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan and you can (and absolutely should) see in the movie theaters And the cover of Material Girl performed by AWOLNATION featuring none other than Taylor Hanson of the band Hanson.   Chapters 0:07  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast   0:54  Introducing Our Special Guest   3:52  Neopets: A Nostalgic Journey   7:02  The Neopets Economy   14:02  Casual Players Unite   21:25  Exploring Neopets Apps   33:14  The Importance of Community   44:35  Reviving Old Accounts   49:12  Midnight Snacks and Nostalgia   57:12  The Balancing Act of Neopets   59:01  Finding Joy in the Game   1:00:30  First-time Podcast Experience

🧀 This week on Midnight Cheesecake, we’re talking about death. Yep, the big D. But don’t worry, we’re not here to bum you out. Ruha and Bekah take this notoriously grim topic and instead opt for humor, heart, and existential sass. First things first, Ruha's still reeling from an adorable reel Bekah just sent her, courtesy of the Savannah Bananas. Think baby racing, banana bandanas, and the kind of energy that makes you forget we’re about to talk about funerals. Then we slide into the deep stuff - how the deaths of icons like Ozzy Osbourne and Robin Williams hit us in the feels and bring back our childhoods in weirdly profound ways. Bekah gets nostalgic about watching “The Osbournes” and realizing her family wasn’t the only circus in town. Ruha dives into how these public losses mess with our personal timelines - like how she could have sworn both Robin Williams and Chester Bennington (of Linkin Park) died a decade before they actually did?? Then we get into the eerie lore of the 27 Club, because nothing says “light podcast banter” like doomed rock stars and tragic endings. Ruha reflects on anxiety over death in the news when it concerns young mothers, and Bekah shares her journey through grief after her brother and father each passed. It’s raw, it’s real, yet somehow still comforting. But don’t worry, we don’t leave you in the emotional trenches. We wrap things up with a reminder to live loud, dream big, and maybe be just a little weird while you’re at it. There’s some cheeky banter, a few wild aspirations, and a whole lot of love for the messy, beautiful chaos of life. So grab a slice of cheesecake and settle in, for inappropriate laughter, teary eyes, and a gentle nudge to make the most of this strange little ride we’re all on. Leave us a review and let us know what we should discuss next!   Chapters 0:03  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake 1:27  And Now, Death 5:58  First Celebrity Deaths 14:12  The 27 Club 20:34  Celebrity Connections 26:54  Reflections on Death 32:59  What Will You Be Remembered For? 39:48  Listener Engagement and Review   Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ also at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak

🎙️ In this episode of the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast, we hang out with Blake Odom, a travel-loving adventurer and recent bear encounter survivor who’s checked off 61 out of 63 national parks in the U.S. ("America's Best Idea"). Ruha and Bekah, long distance besties with a shared love for yapping and eating popcorn, dive into Blake’s journey and avoid ever taking anything too seriously. Blake’s love for parks started way back in Alabama, with the Great Smoky Mountains stealing his heart when he was just four. After a long break from park-hopping, a post-college road trip out west reignited that spark, and he’s been chasing park signs ever since. What started as casual visits turned into a "well, I've come this far" mission to see them all.  Then we get into the deets of how he pulls it off - juggling work as a globe-trotting environmental engineer while sneaking in park visits whenever he can (even when they're 4 hours out of his way!). His job takes him to remote places, so he makes the most of it by tacking on mini adventures. For Blake, these trips aren’t just about sightseeing - they’re about connecting with nature, learning about conservation, and soaking in the beauty of the country. Some people don't need to fly to the edge of space to appreciate the planet they're on. Does Blake have advice? Only the best kind. Blake’s all about smart planning: avoiding crowds by going during shoulder seasons, wandering off the beaten path, and staying safe around weather and wildlife. He even shouts out some underrated parks that deserve more love. Beyond that, he recommends keeping it simple - tennis shoes and plenty of water are the basics of what you need to enjoy a good trail. We talk a little about how the National Park Service is dealing with staffing issues and tight budgets. Blake’s got a lot of respect for park rangers and hopes more support comes their way. He’s the kind of guy who’d rally behind any effort to protect these places. As we wrap up, Blake shares what’s next: maybe some international travel, definitely more national monuments, and always chasing those iconic views. He’s also a big reader, so he drops a few book recs that celebrate nature and help us see the world through a more thoughtful lens. Come hang out with us and get inspired by Blake’s epic journey—you might just find yourself planning your own national park adventure. Good luck at Yellowstone, Blake!   Chapters 0:05  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 1:02  Introducing Our Special Guest 2:52  National Parks Journey 6:07  Traveling with Friends 9:38  Global National Park Adventures 12:29  Family and Nature 13:21  Tips for New Visitors 17:30  Hiking Adventures 22:30  Underrated Parks 26:36  National Park Passes 30:57  America's Best Idea 32:36  Wildlife Encounters 38:07  Tourist Mishaps 42:25  Challenges Facing National Parks 44:33  Future Adventures 47:46  Closing Thoughts     Links: Free National Park passes for Fourth Graders and their families: https://www.everykidoutdoors.gov/pass.htm Find Blake: https://www.instagram.com/instaodom/ National Parks Service, hilarious social media: https://www.instagram.com/nationalparkservice Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/ also at https://www.tiktok.com/@midnightcheesecak      

 This episode is all about online reviews - The True and the False. In this episode of Midnight Cheesecake, we get into the chaotic and sometimes shocking world of online reviews. We kick off our BIG THANKS for the reviews we’ve gotten on the podcast so far, and talk about how much your listening means to us. <3 Then we dive into the different ways we write reviews (and why). Bekah shares her thoughtful, super detailed takes on everything from hotels and restaurants to random rest stops. She's got stories ranging from nightmare roach motels to dreamy luxury stays, always aiming to help future travelers with the real scoop. And where to find heated bidets! Meanwhile, Ruha talks about being a Google Local Guide and how that journey turned into a whole vocation, charting surprising spots, sharing pictures, and building a go-to database for folks exploring Alabama. Fun fact: one of her Louisiana Art and Science museum photos has over 6.7 million views. Not too shabby. Further in, we chat about a wild story from Vice UK about a guy who made up a completely fake restaurant and got it not just trending, but ranked #1 on TripAdvisor. That sparks a deeper convo about the power (and obvious pitfalls) of online reviews. Can you really trust what you read? And why have we stopped trusting our own taste buds? In our “Spots Playground” segment, we share favorite games we’re into lately, both card and video. It's all about that little slice of joy and how it brings us closer to the people around us. To wrap things up, we toss around tips on spotting reviews that feel real versus ones that seem a little too perfect. This is your reminder to drop us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. We wouldn't want anyone to think this is a fake podcast! Find us on socials @midnightcheesecake and slide into our DMs. Tell us what you're enjoying the most!   Chapters 0:13 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 0:51 The Importance of Reviews 1:48 Becca's Review Adventures 5:15 Rest Stops and Bidets 8:20 Google Reviews and Local Guides 14:02 The Shed at Dulwich 24:15 Trusting Online Reviews 28:31 Spots Playground 32:12 Card Games and Fun 36:24 Where to Find Us   Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/

 This episode of Midnight Cheesecake is all about catching up with Ruha's professional hustle as an engineering content creator on TikTok. Ruha shares her recent adventure to Cambridge for an all-expenses-paid VIP TikTok event. There’s some hilarious confusion between Cambridge and Boston at first, but then she dives into why she was really there: a workshop for content creators focused on making better videos and adding more educational vibes, especially in STEM. What started as just playing around with TikTok has grown into something way bigger for Ruha—and that journey is pretty amazing. We crack up about the way Ruha read the email invitation from TikTok. And even though the workshop wasn’t as technical and hands on as she expected, the best part ended up being the people she met—creators from all sorts of backgrounds, each bringing awesome insights and advice to the table. There’s a funny story about visiting Harvard with Pastor Paul Drees and recording the classic Elle Woods, "What, like it's hard?" TikTok that had everyone laughing. Ruha also talks about how TikTok’s moving toward more educational content and introduces their new incentive pilot, the Specialized Rewards Program. It’s helping her turn creativity into real income, which is a big deal. The conversation naturally flows into how to juggle content creation and family life, with Ruha sharing how she makes time for her kids while still chasing her goals. Toward the end, we lighten things up with talk about what we’ve been watching and the apps we’ve been loving lately. The episode wraps with thoughts on staying close in a world that’s constantly moving, and how sharing little everyday moments—even if it’s just swapping stories or splitting midnight cheesecake—can mean everything. It’s the kind of episode that makes you feel like part of their circle—warm, honest, and full of heart. Creativity, friendship, and motherhood... all in one sweet slice. Leave us a review and find us everywhere @midnightcheesecake!   Chapters 0:07 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake 1:17 Influencer Life in Boston 2:58 TikTok Incentives and Opportunities 9:57 Meeting Other Creators 15:39 Harvard Adventures 16:58 Reflections on Content Creation 19:44 Balancing Family and Work 22:26 Growing an Online Presence 26:35 Spot's Playgrounds and Recommendations 34:00 Midnight Snack Cravings 34:34 Call to Action   Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/

In this episode of the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast, Ruha and Bekah hang out and chat about RAGBRAI—the wild and wonderful bike ride across Iowa that Bekah has braved more than once, fueled by heart and more carbs than a human can comfortably consume. They’re joined by a special guest: Great Freaking Guy and Bekah's husband, Joe Rodgers, who’s got tons of RAGBRAI miles under his belt and plenty of stories to share. Listen to how he rode with Lance Armstrong! Bekah and Joe kick things off with how each of them first crossed paths with RAGBRAI—Joe with his runner-to-rider glow-up, and Bekah schlepping gear from a follow vehicle before hopping on a bike herself, and later being the best kind of Midwest cheerleader. Joe brings the background on the ride (which started way back in the ’70s thanks to two newspaper columnists), and the group unpacks how RAGBRAI grew into a beloved non-race celebration of Iowa, bikes, and people. They swap stories about wild weather, mismatched bike paces, and joyful moments that sneak up between miles—like cheers from townsfolk in lawn chairs and running into big names on the ride (shoutout to Lance Armstrong and Jim Cantore). The random encounters and surprise friendships are part of what make RAGBRAI such a magical, sweaty, hilarious experience. Naturally, food takes center stage, with the legendary Mr. Pork Chop and pancake ninjas like Chris Cakes flinging breakfast with precision. Bekah shares her devotion to Farm Boys breakfast burritos, and revisits her funniest food-related moments—like surviving on corn and Gatorade while chasing down pie and turkey legs. It’s a whole midwestern vibe. But the real heart of the episode is all about community. Bekah and Joe talk about the emotional connections made while riding, how towns along the route go all out, and how RAGBRAI feels like a rolling celebration of resilience and joy. Whether it’s giant greeting signs of their faces, cousins hopping on board, or strangers offering encouragement at just the right moment—it's all heart. To wrap things up, Joe, Bekah, and Ruha share what they’re currently loving—nostalgic books, fun pens, and yes, walking tamales (security at the airport had questions). They transition out of bike mode and into cozy everyday life, reminding listeners that even the wildest rides end with good snacks and soft pants. Whether listeners are considering their first RAGBRAI or reminiscing with their own bike tales, this episode is a warm invitation to roll with Ruha and Bekah—through joy, chaos, chafing, and connection. Please let us know what you think in the comments or on Instagram @midnightcheesecake.   Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/

In this episode of Midnight Cheesecake, Ruha and Bekah kick off with a little celebration. We’re fresh off our second visit together for the year. Compliments fly, jokes flow, and the friendship energy is just warm and sparkly. We dive straight into the 90s, swapping stories about our childhood toys. Bekah brings up her Sky Dancer (yes, the one that launched into the air like a magic fairy missile), and the Barbie that magically changed from awake to sleeping with a little bit of water.  We laugh about our Hanson concert memories before meandering into a chat about Beanie Babies, Polly Pockets, and digital pets. Bekah talks about how the rivalry between GigaPet and Tamagotchi, and Ruha shares how her dad was the original Great Feaking Guy and used to feed her GigaPet while she was at school. I mean what else could we do, let them starve? Collectibles get a shoutout—Bekah opens up about the eternal dilemma: do you keep them pristine in the box or tear them open for playtime? It's the kind of decision that you mom makes feel like life-or-death when you're seven. Later, we drift into movie and TV territory and about how Clueless just hit its 30th anniversary. Remember a time when people wore unfancy summer clothes to Wimbledon? Yeah… we’ve come a long way. As we start winding down, we lean into the “midnight” part of Midnight Cheesecake. What would we snack on? Bekah goes for decadent fudge from James’s recipe, and Ruha craves apple crumble with ice cream—real comfort food vibes. This episode is like flipping through a scrapbook of glitter Lisa Frank stickers, Hanson posters, and accidentally removed Beanie Baby tags. It’s our cozy, funny walk down memory lane—and we want to hear yours too! Let us know what your favorite childhood toys are. Chapters 0:08  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 1:29  Nostalgic Toys of Our Childhood 4:09  90s Music and Movies 5:29  The Great Toy Debate 9:49  Collectibles: To Keep or Not 11:46  The Importance of Nostalgia 14:02  Reflecting on Childhood Memories 19:00  Adventures with Gigapets 22:23  The Neopets Phenomenon 25:55  Revisiting Neopets 32:50  The Joy of Gel Pens 35:02  The Barbie Dilemma 37:15  Collectibles and Sentimentality 39:02  The Impact of Accumulation 43:13  Wrapping Up the Nostalgia 49:59  Midnight Cheesecake Treats 53:18  Closing Thoughts and Farewell   Find Ruha & Bekah: https://www.instagram.com/midnightcheesecake/ and https://www.facebook.com/people/Midnight-Cheesecake-Podcast/61577976430527/  

In this episode, we serve up another rich slice of commentary and dive into Netflix’s OceanGate Titan submersible documentary—with a healthy dose of midnight cravings, mom-life chaos, and side-eye for billionaires. 🌊 We unpack the bizarre spectacle surrounding the Titan tragedy and explore how unchecked ambition, wealth, and narcissism imploded at the bottom of the ocean. Stockton Rush’s billionaire wannabe exploration fetish made us queasy—because when ego comes before ethics, people get hurt. 🥤 Bekah coins what we now call the “Evian Perspective,” a hilarious-yet-heartfelt reminder to find slivers of gratitude even on the trashiest of days. Meanwhile, Ruha lives a real-time dumpster moment with infuriating audio issues—but even then, we find joy in the company of besties. (Yes, Bekah is the Evian in Ruha’s chaos.) 🛠️ As the tone sobers, we talk engineering ethics, regulatory loopholes, and how corporate culture too often silences the very people trying to prevent disasters. Ruha reflects on being in those rooms—where caution gets brushed aside in favor of profit and plausible deniability. 💬 We also dish on viral misinformation (TikTok, we’re looking at you), the obsession with billionaire life, and the ethics of throwing millions at ocean tourism while millions go without. And yes, the PlayStation controller was real. But don’t worry, we’ve got jokes about Nintendo, Titanic trivia, and even a cameo by custom face socks. 🥗 As always, we cleanse the palate with tales of wedge salad cravings, ASMR disagreements, and kids who think podcasts are actual magic. And maybe they are—because somehow, every episode becomes a life raft of laughter, honesty, and friendship. So come laugh, reflect, and rage a little with us—because this episode of Midnight Cheesecake reminds us that even at the deepest depths, joy, accountability, and connection still matter.   Chapters 0:17  Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 1:05  Ocean Gate Titan Submersible Discussion 1:13  The Evian Perspective 4:38  Social Media Reactions 6:19  The Titan's Cost and Culture 16:05  Stockton Rush’s Attitude 26:29  Engineer's Concerns and Consequences 31:06  Societal Reflections on Wealth 35:20  The Bigger Picture 42:30  Midnight Treats and Wrap-Up 43:33  Bloopers and Outtakes

In this episode of Midnight Cheesecake, we are back with all our usual shenanigans—laughing too hard, getting a little nostalgic, and maybe oversharing just the right amount. We start off giggling about the weird and wonderful world of TikTok. From “eat dinner with me” lives to someone who sharpens pencils into tiny lions (yes, really), we’re both a little baffled and low-key fascinated. Ruha dishes on her experience in this fancy creator rewards group and how cool it is to have that community. With our kids off doing their thing, we dive into that rare, delicious feeling of alone time. Ruha talks about a week of uninterrupted sleep and the sound of her pool fountain as her only company (hello, dream life). Meanwhile, Bekah’s prepping for travel, helping everyone pack (except herself), and somehow still planning outfits for the Fourth. Of course, it wouldn’t be us if we didn’t get sentimental about our kids growing up. Whether it’s Lucy’s big leap into work and driving or our little ones sporting purses and shades on vacation, we’re feeling all the feels. It’s wild watching them become more independent—it makes us proud, and yeah, a little teary. We wrap things up the only way we know how: with our latest snack finds and what’s on our watchlists. It’s a cozy hangout, full of heart, humor, and a healthy dose of 90s mom energy. Basically, if you’re into relatable chaos with two besties who think Canva invites count as love languages, you’ll feel right at home. Chapters 0:15 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake 3:43 The Mysteries of ASMR 4:10 Exclusive TikTok Rewards 5:41 TikTok Trends Unveiled 7:39 Friendship and Podcasting 12:14 Embracing Child-Free Moments 15:49 Packing for Adventures 17:35 The Art of Packing 21:07 Kids Growing Up 22:34 Navigating New Responsibilities 26:59 The Joys of Parenting 29:45 Reflections on Growing Up 32:10 New Shows to Watch 34:48 Midnight Cravings 39:35 Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Midnight Cheesecake, we dive into what it really takes to motivate kids, especially when quitting seems easier than pushing through. Bekah reflects on how a strings camp became a lesson in perseverance, while we swap stories about our own childhoods and how being nudged out of our comfort zones shaped who we are now. The conversation winds through financial literacy—how we’re trying to be more intentional with our kids than our own parents were—and into childhood dreams, from “starving artist” ambitions to engineering paths. Bekah also shares her unforgettable RAGBRAI ride across Iowa, complete with grit, tears, and an 85-year-old cyclist who outpaced everyone. It’s heartfelt, honest, and full of those parenting “aha” moments—tied together, naturally, with some midnight cheesecake. Chapters 0:14 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 1:03 Motivating Our Kids 12:19 Teaching Financial Literacy 14:19 Dreams and Career Aspirations 23:04 Balancing Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation 27:41 Episode Wrap-Up

In this episode, we explore the intersection of networking and sobriety, reflecting on how meaningful connections can thrive without the influence of alcohol. As we navigate our shared experiences, we reflect on the notion of social gatherings, and how building relationships is rooted in genuine conversation. In contrast, Bekah shares her past experiences with more alcohol-fueled dynamics, prompting a thoughtful discussion on how society often portrays networking as requiring a drink to kickstart connections. We discuss a Nashville club that encourages dancing and fun without drinking, sparking thoughts about future gatherings that foster the same spirit without the associated downsides of alcohol. In the end we share the sweet story behind our podcast name, “Midnight Cheesecake,” symbolizing the joy found in life's simple pleasures and fully enjoying the friendships that bloom along the way. Chapters 0:14 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 11:41 The Power of Family Dynamics 23:43 Navigating Relationships and Parenting 24:21 The Origin of Midnight Cheesecake 28:12 Sweet Reflections on Friendship

What's one of your dad's best jokes? Today it's all things Dad (and husband) along with topics of balancing motherhood with personal ambitions, joys of children's theater, and reflections on our fathers’ influence on our lives during Father’s Day. This conversation highlights the importance of sharing experiences, humor amidst serious topics, and celebrating relationships. We'd love to hear your stories about father figures too. Come share with us on Instagram @midnightcheesecake. In this episode, we try to focus on dads but gosh darnit we end up diving into the lives of moms and their roles as both caregivers and creators, as we explore the dynamic balance of motherhood and personal ambitions. Our conversation starts with summer activities, musical theater camp, and how a recent playdate with a NASA engineer led me to reflect yet again on where everyone things I got my oldest child's name. For Father’s Day we recall fond memories of my dad's storytelling prowess, highlighting how family lore has shaped my understanding of our history and identity. Bekah shares her recollections of her father’s guidance and troubleshooting advice, emphasizing the lasting wisdom passed down through generations. We touch on the importance of recounting these tales, acknowledging that storytelling not only preserves family histories but also enriches our children's understanding of their heritage. If you don't want to hear about death and cracking jokes in the same breath, then don't keep listening because then we discuss how laughter can coexist with serious topics, and that exploring difficult dialogues, such as miscarriage and loss, is necessary. It’s about finding levity within the hard truths and giving nothing but love and support. The episode encapsulates a mix of humor, nostalgia, and the importance of community, resonating with anyone juggling the beautiful chaos of family life. Don't forget to treat your dad to a slice of 'Midnight Cheesecake'—a gentle reminder to indulge in the sweet moments amidst life’s demands. Chapters 0:20 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake 7:49 Funny Stories About Dads 9:09 Meeting New Friends 12:08 Discussing Space and Feminism 13:27 Miscarriages and Motherhood 15:25 Celebrating Dads 20:54 Sharing Family Stories 25:35 The Power of Storytelling 29:52 Comedy and Timing

But does Will Ferrell have a vomity face? In this episode, we dive into how social media has influenced our perspectives and interactions in relationships. Bekah shares insights from her experiences as a midwesterner while Ruha brings a unique background as an engineering content creator to the conversation. We discuss the challenges and joys of modern communication and the impact of online discourse on our lives. We kick things off discussing how social media can amplify opinions that we never asked for, as highlighted by a thought-provoking quote. It reflects on the pervasive noise we face online, where unfiltered comments can damage our mental health. Bekah elaborates on her strategy of curating her social media feeds to focus on humor and relatable content, rather than engaging in divisive conversations. Ruha shares her experiences with negative comments and how she draws humor and positivity from them, reminding us that "When you engage, you give them a stage." Throughout the episode, we reminisce about funny family moments, including chaotic trips with moms to Painted Tree. Ruha shares her humorous experiences in navigating social situations and gift-giving while injecting wisdom on the importance of carrying on traditions and nurturing connections through thoughtful gestures. We also touch on the concept of using social media as a platform for authenticity amid the curated perfection often seen online. As we reflect on the influence of social media, we confront the misconception that it presents reality. Both Ruha and Bekah share stories about the pressure to measure up to seemingly effortless parenting showcased online, leading to self-doubt. We emphasize the necessity of recognizing truths behind social media claims, particularly those related to success and parenting. Ruha exposes the deceptive nature of influencer culture, where spectacular success rarely reflects reality and is often a straight up lie. Towards the end of our conversation, we discuss a particularly profound topic related to recognizing one's worth, especially in the context of past relationships. Bekah shares her journey of self-acceptance, underscoring the importance of valuing oneself independent of external validation. Ruha relates this back to pop culture, examining the portrayal of abusive relationships in television and the lasting effects these narratives have on our views and experiences. Finally, while attempting to answer a lighter question about the most ridiculous beliefs we've encountered, we explore the contrast between serious life lessons and dumb parenting myths. We may talk about serious stuff, but we always bring it back to the funny side because laughter is essential to the human experience. If you can't laugh, what's the point? This episode reflects on how we engage with the world—both online and off—as we navigate life and self-acceptance in an age dominated by social media noise. Chapters 0:22 Welcome to Midnight Cheesecake Podcast 0:41 Social Media and Its Influence 4:58 Engaging with Trolls 10:38 The Space Debate 15:18 Reality vs. Social Media 25:01 Ridiculous Beliefs 30:09 Parenting Challenges 33:40 Energy and Positivity 34:47 Midnight Snacks

In this episode of the Midnight Cheesecake Podcast, we dive deep into the themes of motherhood, community, and the concept of "third spaces." From Bekah's recent experience with a family visit to reflecting on the ups and downs of family interactions. I share the whirlwind of a pool party before our recording, which ended with wet shorts and a last minute clothing change that surprisingly did not make Ruha late to record. As we transition into our personal stories, Rebecca shares her busy week filled with adventures alongside her mom and aunt, which included outings like miniature golf and a baseball game that culminated in a minor mishap concerning shuttle transportation and strict stadium policies. Despite the nostalgic chaos, she captures the essence of family bonding amidst the busyness, showcasing the complex nature of these visits where laughter coexists with the occasional need for solitude. We meander through our childhood memories, sharing anecdotes about our mothers and how their philosophies shaped our own parenting styles. I reflect on the insights gained from my daughter's desire not to "rot away" during summer—a reminder that childhood should be about exploration and active engagement with the world around them. This concept is intertwined with our thoughts on third spaces—environments that allow for community connection outside of home and work. We juxtapose our experiences with communal life in America against more laid-back, leisurely cultures, discussing how such spaces allow for real human interaction and a sense of belonging. Rebecca recounts her church experiences, highlighting the distinction between different congregations and the spiritual connections formed through community engagement. We both express the significance of social networks in nurturing our spiritual journeys, revealing how friendships within these spaces foster a deeper sense of purpose and connection to the teachings and traditions embodied within the church. Finally, we touch on the role of resilience in our lives, recognizing how family dynamics and personal struggles shape us into who we are today. As we wrap up, both of us express gratitude for the enduring bonds of family and community, remarking on the lessons learned from our mothers and the importance of nurturing these relationships. Ultimately, this episode serves as a heartfelt exploration of the beauty and complexities of family life, community ties, and the shared spaces that enrich our experiences as individuals and as mothers. Chapters 0:10 Podcast Introduction 8:34 Weekend Wrap-Up 11:05 Reflecting on the Move 15:07 BeautyCounter Comeback 16:51 Mother-Daughter Relationships 19:50 Faith and Community 28:11 Human Connections 30:34 Exploring Third Spaces 32:22 Closing Thoughts

Ruha and Bekah gather for their official inaugural episode discuss the surprising greatness of Ben Stiller, what the divisive nature of many comedians means to us living our everyday lives, and leaving the house before remembering to put on shoes. Join us as we muddle through our attempt at making a proper podcast as two only fairly proficient 30-something moms with social media habits.