Taylor’d Takes

I’ve been a Kyle Cooke stan since day one and this Summer House rewatch only confirmed it: his apology tour is officially over.Rewatching from season one, it’s clear Kyle’s biggest issue has never been what he’s saying, it’s how he says it. Everyone focuses on the yelling, drinking, and chaos, but misses the pattern underneath it all.Kyle has consistently carried the emotional, financial, and public weight of his relationship with Amanda Batula while still showing up for her and defending her repeatedly. Not to mention Kyle being Bravo’s ultimate “girls’ girl” defending other women in the house over the years. Remember Cristina? The 17-page email he wrote to the house in defense of Amanda? And while Kyle continues to show up for everyone, he gets met with his wife subtly turning the house against him and consistently complaining about him from day one. News flash Amanda: Kyle is the partner YOU chose and continued to choose to stay with. At some point, stop complaining about a situation you keep choosing to be in.Kyle’s delivery often overshadows his valid points, but I am here to say it clearly: Kyle Cooke is done apologizing, and honestly, it’s about time the house apologized to him.Anywhoooooo. Justice for Kyle Cooke! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

TGIF! A Friday episode because the Met Gala takes fully hijacked Tuesday. Naturally.My birthday was on Sunday, so Ryan and I get into all the extremely important life reflections that come with turning 29 like… wait… did I even fully live my 20s if I’ve never been to a club in Las Vegas? Have I done enough debauchery?I recap what might’ve been my favorite birthday yet: blueberry pancakes, flea markets, a picnic by the water, fake proposals on docks, and meeting a stranger named Kirk who somehow turned my birthday into an unexpectedly wholesome conversation about life, connection, and talking to people more. Not to mention a fisherman made an appearance and gifted me a birthday present.I also tell Ryan about making a VERY concrete birthday wish this year. No more vague wishes. I’m talking SMART goals. Measurable. Specific. Scientific. This sh*t needs to happen before I turn 30.Then my new friend Kirk gives us “questions for the audience” and suddenly we’re discussing:* Why men refuse to say they’re excited about things* The unwritten rules of bathroom etiquette* How to invite a friend to a movie without it feeling like a first date. Who drives? Who buys the tickets? Where are we sitting?* Why adult friendships weirdly feel like datingTaylor’d Takes on:* The power of deleting comments and protecting your energy online* Why I don’t fully speak on rumors until the SOURCE addresses it* Troll culture and whether “Duty Heads” invented online trash talk. Ryan survived 2009 Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 lobbies. IYKYK.Questions of the week! Ryan: What was your favorite game to trash talk in?Taylor: At what age do we stop going into the bathroom stall with our friends?Subscribe, follow, and send this to the friend you go into the stall with. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

I locked in, hit record, and went OFF with my real-time Met Gala takes… because I have questions. Who got the theme vs. who just looked chic vs. Cardi B (I’m begging… make it make sense). The looks I will defend and the ones I simply cannot co-sign. Why hair and makeup might’ve been doing more than the outfits. And yes, Apple Watches and sunglasses at formal events… we’re addressing it. Also, Blake Lively showing up and what that says about Anna Wintour and Hollywood in general. Who’s your best and worst dressed? Go full Joan Rivers in the comments 👇Subscribe, follow, and send this to a friend who has thoughts on the Met Gala looks. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

I took a break from watching ACQUIRED STYLE ACQUIRE A HUSBAND to… talk about it with Ryan.Brigette Pheloung’s luxury bachelorette in St Barts has the internet talking - to put it mildly. Was it iconic… or completely out of touch?Either way? She gained 1 million followers, flew private with her best friends, took over St Barts, and put Swan Beauty on everyone’s radar (don’t worry - Ryan goes full conspiracy theorist trying to figure out who they are).So sure… she can’t “win” everyone on the internet over. But one thing is very clear: she’s winning.Taylor’d Takes on:* Doing “too much” vs. “not enough” (pick your fighter)* How ACQUIRED STYLE is just like us… rewearing pieces?? groundbreaking* Why controversy = visibility = $$$* Are influencers living… or performing?* Live audience etiquette (please… stop talking)* Gender reveal: wait or find out?* Posting online: sharing your life vs. seeking validation* A breakdown of our favorite looks from ACQUIRED A HUSBAND* The narrative that weddings/bachelorettes are “out of control”… and why ACQUIRED STYLE didn’t subscribeSubscribe, follow, and send this to the friend who says “that’s too much”… but would be packed in 10 minutes.Questions of the week!What was your favorite look from ACQUIRED A HUSBAND?What should Ryan acquire this year? He’s leaving it up to you to decide for him. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Taylor recaps her wild Sundance night, finessing her way into an intimate post-The Invite premiere event where Edward Norton is her “best friend,” Woody Harrelson is vibing, and she somehow makes Seth Rogen laugh.What starts as story time turns into something deeper:* The reality of “fake it till you make it” (and when it actually works)* You can only be embarrassed if you let yourself be* Why an unshakable level of delusional confidence can open doors… literally* The awkward truth about meeting your heroes* A reminder that rejection isn’t always personal* If you want something, go get it!* As Ryan says, “to be cringe is to be free”. We’re all just climbing through the cringe tunnel… and there is a light at the end (or so Taylor hopes)Taylor’d Takes on:* Summer House “SCAMANDA” drama - has Amanda Batula played us for 10 years? Enter: Rihanna (and… do we dare say Michael B. Jordan next?)* A work story gone wild: Taylor gets recognized mid-shift as Taylor’d Takes, which spirals into almost interviewing Hannah Berner… because somehow, all roads lead to Bravo* Not letting fear, embarrassment, or rejection stop you - people can (and WILL) say no… so say yes and make it happen anyway. GO GET ‘EM!!!!! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Taylor pulls back the curtain on the chaos behind her highlight reel-from quitting a job her body was physically rejecting to getting married (twice) and starting a job where she serves stories by day and tables by night. She opens up about what it actually means to take a leap when you’re terrified, how anxiety can manifest physically, and the ongoing question: is therapy helping… or just unlocking new trauma?She’s joined by her longtime friend and audio guru, Ryan-the self-proclaimed voice of the audience-who jumps in to question, react, and rein her in. They get into the realities of life in your late 20s: making new friends, explaining why you don’t drink, and trying to date in 2026, when dating apps feel like a full-time job you might need a side hustle to afford.Taylor also breaks down the pop culture chaos we’re all thinking about-like the Amanda and West Summer House situation that has everyone wondering… is this real, or are we all just dazed and confused with Amanda?Taylor’s figuring it out in real time-trying it, talking about it, and taking you (and Ryan) along. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Seth Marks started his “Note 2 Younger Self” Instagram series because his teenagers straight-up stopped listening to him. Enter the Amygdala Whisperer with a selfie arm, an iPhone, and a lifetime of lessons, Seth began dropping motivational notes to inspire them… not realizing he’d end up inspiring hundreds of thousands of people. But here’s the thing: unlike most motivational speakers, Seth doesn’t just post quotes or bite-sized nuggets - you get the full story behind the lesson, the messy life moments that actually made him realize it.Seth is a true believer that we own the worth of our earth and the importance of not worrying about the outside because it all comes from within and you control that. He lives to be his true most authentic self, doesn’t care what anyone thinks, and shares it all: his separation from his wife, Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Meredith Marks, how he became a better husband, building an energy vortex that actually serves you, dropping toxic people, and why Plan B’s can straight-up beat Plan A’s. We dig into people-pleasing, trying therapists like ice cream flavors until you find your favorite, thick skin in the age of trolls, the life lessons school won’t teach you, and how breakdowns often turn into your biggest breakthroughs.As Chicago natives, Seth and I bond over the greatest city in the world, chatting about where you’d actually find him and Meredith on a night out, the restaurant of their first date, his man crush on Caleb Williams (Chicago lovers, this one’s for you), and where he’d sneak off during their separation because he couldn’t cook. Andy Cohen, if you’re reading this, we need a Real Housewives of Chicago… and Seth shares whether he and Meredith would actually pack their bags.And just when you think you’ve soaked up all the wisdom, Seth drops his skincare routine (thanks to Meredith and all her PR packages), and we say out loud what we want for ourselves in the next five years. This conversation is a reset, a pep talk, and a hang all in one! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

On this video episode of Taylor’d Takes, I’m working out with Peter Kraus, founder of Peter Kraus Fitness, and try (keyword: try) to survive the full PKFit experience. We kick things off with a movement analysis where I’m humbled immediately, move into strength training, and then fully spiral into contrast therapy with a cold plunge and infrared sauna. I’m sweating, shaking, oversharing, asking nonstop questions, and letting the conversation completely take over… because focusing quietly has never been my thing.We talk about how Peter went from having his dad help cover rent so he could still eat organic chicken (because sacrificing health was never an option), to running Worth Personal Training boot camps and driving a pickup truck that doubled as his billboard when he couldn’t afford ads. A dare turned into a modeling career, a win in the same competition Ashton Kutcher had previously won, a moment of chickening out and the pivot that followed. He also reveals the unexpected thing Bachelor fans did after he became the runner-up on The Bachelorette Season 13 with Rachel Lindsay. We get into why long-term health matters way more than abs (Peter Kraus stamp of approval), how to get a “voluminous bum”, what discipline actually looks like when motivation fades, and how the messiest detours can turn into the best breakthroughs - all while I’m just trying to keep up with Peter’s personal training.If you’ve ever felt lost, backed out of something big, or questioned if you’re doing “enough,” this episode is proof you don’t need perfect abs, perfect plans, or perfect form - you just have to keep showing up. So… you wanna know my take?Peter Kraus Founder, Peter Kraus Fitness Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

FULL VIDEO ON YOUTUBE You’ve seen Matthew Broussard on The Tonight Show, Conan and Comedy Central Roast Battles, or maybe you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole of his viral wordplay series Monday Punday.  Matthew shares his Taylor’d Takes on: Behind the scenes of the ESPYs Tush Push sketch — including who broke character first (him, Shane Gillis, or Druski) and the off-air moments you didn’t see Quitting nicotine — and how addiction grabbed him by the throat Proving himself to everyone who underestimated him — from comedy clubs that wouldn’t book him to high school kids who kicked him out of a Facebook group The self-doubt that nearly derailed his dream of bringing his special Hyperbolic to life The comedy career reassurance Bert Kreischer gave to Matthew’s mom, who once doubted stand-up could be a real job The social tightrope of The Lovett School and the lengths he went to for acceptance The advice he WOULDN’T give to 18-year-old Matthew A surreal career milestone he wishes his dad had lived to witness — and the lessons from his father that still guide him today His advice to comedians stuck at the base camp of Cringe Mountain — and why embarrassment is necessary  His passion for sculpting @cockblockgargoyles and wordplay as outlets beyond the stage Why he lives by “speak first, think later” — a mindset passed down from his mom And more!  Follow Matthew on Instagram @mondaypunday and check out his special Hyperbolic now streaming on YouTube. Subscribe to Taylor'd Takes on YouTube and follow on Instagram and TikTok @taylordtakes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

From cracking his first joke at three years old to performing comedy sets across the world, comedian Sam Tallent doesn’t remember a time he wasn’t living the JOKE LIFE. A sentiment that is not only engraved in his mind but on his feet. Sam is a comedian, novelist and host of the Chubby Behemoth Podcast and has been a guest on the Joe Rogan Experience, Matt and Shane, Kill Tony...Taylor’d Takes, to name a few.  Sam shares his Taylor’d Takes on:  Sincerity being underrated and that kindness gets you far in life Dropping out of college to pursue an unconventional and uncertain career path How being an offensive lineman set him up to be a successful stand up host Sneaking into Red Rocks Amphitheater as a teenager and then fast forward to having a reserved parking space and hosting “Film on the Rocks" Some of his first jokes that Taylor dug up from his days at the "Clubhouse" His love for camaraderie, wholesome family time and more!  Follow Sam Tallent on Instagram @samtallent and check out his website for more information on his upcoming shows, comedy specials "The Toad's Morale" and "Waiting for Death to Claim Us", novel "Running the Light", the Chubby Behemoth Podcast and travel show "Wide World".  Let Taylor know your TAKEaway from the episode by writing a review and rating the podcast!   This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Join Taylor, Henry Woodrow and Nashwa Hamouda as they unpack what it really was like moving to a new city for love.  They get right to it and share their TAYLOR'D TAKES on:  making plans on a Saturday with yourself in the mirror  side-eyes from the judgement parade about this decision the truth behind adult friendships and shooting your shot including a story that gives ghosting a whole new meaning how to ensure this sacrifice doesn't lead to resentment or an epic battle about taking out the trash the opportunity to reinvent yourself and adopt new habits without completely catfishing on Bumble For Friends how many throw pillows is too many mourning the last chapter of your life and embracing change  sliding vs. deciding to move in with your significant other  navigating those awkward conversations about uprooting your life without the "ring" splitting rent 50/50 or based on salary??? Asking for a friend... Ohhhhhh the conversations Taylor has had with both Nashwa and Henry about their moves...Thank you for bringing that same energy and honesty to Taylor’d Takes.  Take a listen and follow @taylordtakes on Instagram and TikTok.  Let Taylor know your TAKEaway from the episode by writing a review and rating the podcast! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Before sobriety and dry months were trendy, Tawny Lara, also known as The Sober S*xpert, was searching for the answers about sober sex and dating. Although, there was one question that held her back from officially ditching the booze.  "How will I date, let alone have sex without liquid courage?” After Tawny wrote a hypothesis or two about her future with alcohol, she decided to bravely explore the uncharted territory of alcohol-free dating and intimacy...through a sober experiment. Spoiler alert! This sober experiment led her to being called The Sober S*xpert by Ruby Warrington, the woman who coined the term "Sober Curious", the author of Dry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, & Hooking Up Without the Booze (#1 in three categories on Amazon), writing a weekly advice column Beyond Liquid Courage about all things sober dating and relationships, a recovery advocate, award-winning podcast host and eight years sober.  I had the pleasure of learning about Tawny's sober journey and her book Dry Humping, a lighthearted and judgement-free roadmap on how to navigate the waters of sex and dating without relying on liquid courage.  The Sober S*xpert shares her TAYLOR'D TAKES on:  booze-free outside the box (and the bar) date ideas ways to find pleasure outside of the orgasm why it's essential to crush on yourself before flirting with other people how to have those awkward conversations around not drinking in a society where alcohol plays the lead role in socializing and romantic encounters her passion to break stigmas associated with both sobriety and sexuality edible alcohol-free aphrodisiacs to enhance your sex life how growth can happen, and in some cases needs to happen, INSIDE our comfort zone and so much more!  Follow Tawny Lara on Instagram @tawnymlara and check out her book Dry Humping: A Guide to Dating, Relating, & Hooking Up Without the Booze Let Taylor know your TAKEaway from the episode by writing a review and rating the podcast! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Israel Isaac shares his TAYLOR'D TAKES on:  his evolution becoming the person he desired  unifying lives he tried to keep separate until touching down in LA the reality TV phenomenon that continues to take over our social feeds - SCANDOVAL filming Vanderpump Rules and his relationships with castmates  not taking advice from people he doesn't admire  the origin behind the lyrics of his single Can I Be Me With You  uniforms at Schwartz & Sandy’s and being expressive through fashion inspiring others to accept themselves and be the person they desire  his powerful mantras like ‘friends over fans’ and ‘significance over success’, and so much more! Taylor met Israel a few months ago in LA and was immediately drawn to his larger than life personality, conviction and contagious laugh.  Let Taylor know your takeaway from the episode by writing a review and rating the podcast!  "When I touched down in LA, I was adamant about loving myself and help others see that they can also be themselves. Go all the way with becoming who you desire to be. Don’t let anyone shun you from being your most authentic self. I posted a picture of me in this blue dress and it blew up. And so that began the journey of me asking myself, ‘What’s it like being a Black queer Christian?’ These were lives I tried to keep separate. The more I accepted myself, the more the world accepted me. I want to inspire people and if people feel inspired by me, I feel like I’ve won.”  - Israel Isaac   This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Carson Goodale's entrepreneurial mindset and impatience for long lines were integral in the creation of his company, FanFood. Carson and his FanFood team believe fans should not miss a moment or big play waiting in lines. The ultimate fan experience created by the ultimate fans! Carson is an entrepreneur, co-founder, and Chief Strategy Officer of FanFood. The two get down to BUSINESS with Carson's insights on work-life balance, becoming a morning person, and why he enjoys proving people wrong. Carson and Taylor discuss their experiences with anxiety, being VERY impatient, and their cheerleading days. Taylor loves Shark Tank and was fascinated by Carson's many encounters with Shark, Daymond John. Carson is always pitchin' and humors Taylor with a hilarious pitch deck game. We hope you enjoy Carson Goodale! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Taylor and Oberon Sinclair bond over their curiosity of EVERYTHING and embracing being absolutely "ridiculous." Oberon is widely regarded and known as the Queen of Kale, and we learn how and why she made this superfood a phenomenon. Oberon is also the CEO and founder of My Young Auntie Creative Agency. Over the past 20 years, she has collaborated with and managed clients including Hermes, Vivienne Westwood, Jack Spade, Converse, Free People, and more! Oberon gives Taylor her pop culture fix with stories that include Harrison Ford and Richard Gere, iconic Jack Spade campaigns, and more. Oberon shares with Taylor why she feels like she has been a disruptor in her career. The two talk about the importance of happiness and why it's refreshing to try something new now and then. Oberon's daughter created "Oberon's Dream Capsule" for all of her wishes to come true, and we are eager to learn what else Oberon has up her sleeve! We hope you enjoy Oberon Sinclair! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Not even a year after pursuing comedy, Nick Smeriglio “made an impression” on his motivating comedian, Sebastian Maniscalco, on Jimmy Kimmel Live! Sebastian himself gave Nick the nod and an A+ for his notable Sebastian impression. Nick shares with Taylor other driving factors that pushed him, after MUCH resistance, to post his first video on TikTok. Nick quickly became a viral TikTok sensation, with over 150,000 people following his comedic skits and journey into comedy. Nick does several impressions for Taylor that have her on her a** laughing, including Christopher Walken, Donald Trump, Jack Nicholson, Sebastian Maniscalco, and many more! After a mid-episode tequila shot, the two get candid on putting themselves out there for public criticism and how one video can change your life. We hope you enjoy Nick Smeriglio! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

A $10,000 check from a supportive friend and a relentless entrepreneurial spirit are two of many factors that led Michelle Mekky to where she is today. Michelle is the founder and CEO of Mekky Media, a cancer survivor, and a #GIRLBOSS. Michelle shares with Taylor how losing her job and surviving ovarian cancer were signs from the universe to start her own public relations company, Mekky Media. Before launching Mekky Media in 2016, she pursued her childhood dream of becoming a journalist. Growing up with immigrant parents, she was a first-generation college student at one of the most prestigious journalism schools, Northwestern University. Michelle spent over a decade as a senior producer and news writer for Fox-TV and then transitioned into PR and marketing, working at top agencies in Chicago. Michelle is candid with Taylor that she did not think she was “pretty enough” to be an on-camera reporter and that her confidence was a barrier she had to overcome. The two bond over their belief in the power of the universe, their fears of rejection, and their love for J Lo. Please enjoy, Michelle Mekky! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Are you ready for no bullsh** and a new mindset? Well, you came to the right place. Taylor's guest, Case Kenny, has made a name for himself as a prominent independent podcaster and mindfulness thought leader. His podcast, New Mindset, Who Dis?, has millions of downloads and honors as Apple Podcast's Top 30 Podcast, Top 100 Mental Health, iHeart Radio Top 10, and many more accolades. He references himself as "Dudebroguy" who enjoys working out and talking about his feelings...and these two sure did talk about feelings! Case shares with Taylor how to break down anxious overthinking, the healthy side of ego that leads to swag, the power of honesty and character-driven content, the qualities he seeks in a partner, and more! The two discuss the pressure to be successful personally and professionally in your twenties and why Case believes that is "ludicrous" and that you should create your own timetable. Case also answers hinge prompts and questions from T2U listeners so you don't want to miss those burning questions! Case Kenny is major swag alert and Taylor is all about her new mindset! Please enjoy, Case Kenny! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Card sharks, dating, an infamous college night at Sweaty Betty's, pre-game rituals, travel arrangements, people watching from the outfield are some of the antics on the pro baseball road... according to professional baseball player Danny Woodrow. Danny offers a behind-the-scenes look into his experience in the pro baseball world and answers Taylor's burning questions: Is he a boxer or a briefs guy? Do grown men cry when they get hit by a baseball? Are they partying on the road Dennis Rodman style? You will find out! Danny started as a preferred walk-on in college to a Detroit Tigers MLB Draft Pick in 2016. Danny has played in every level leading him to where he is now in AAA, just one level below the big leagues! Danny shares with Taylor that he almost quit baseball at a young age and the reason that kept him coming back to the sport, and now his career. Danny is honest about his hopes to play in the majors someday, but also his ability to close the door if needed. Please enjoy, Danny Woodrow! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Taylor has an honest and eye-opening conversation with Kisha Gulley, as Kisha says, “what you see is what you get.” Kisha is an Afro-Latina and advocates for autism, mental health, racial justice, and overall self-care. Kisha shared with Taylor the emotions she felt when her son was diagnosed with autism, her and her family’s experiences being called a racial slur, and how Facebook restricted HER account when she was standing up for herself. Mark Zuckerberg, this episode is Taylor’d to you! The two talk about the importance of mental health when experiencing anxiety or depression and Kisha’s deciding factor to share this aspect of her life being that “she can’t be the only one.” Kisha shares that she learned later in life to not just embrace her culture and herself, but to share it. Please enjoy, Kisha Gulley! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Taylor's guest is ABC7 Chicago Windy City LIVE (WCL) co-host, Emmy Winner, musician, actor, Ryan Chiaverini. Ryan started his career in Great Falls, Montana as the weekend sports anchor and is now in the tenth year of WCL, which kicked off in one of the most coveted time slots in TV history launching the day after Oprah retired. Ryan has interviewed everyone in the sports and entertainment industry from Mike Tyson, Will Ferrell, Al Pacino, Michelle Obama to Taylor's all-time favorite, Michael Jordan...the list continues. Ryan is candid with Taylor on his most surprising AND disappointing celebrity guests, including never before shared inside scoop on why HE turned down an interview with the Kardashians. Ryan is open with Taylor about the loss of his mother to cancer and brother to suicide and how he has commemorated them through songwriting and causes he is passionate about. These two love to talk, especially with one another! Please enjoy, Ryan Chiaverini! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Collin Fernandez's professional soccer career started at 17 years old when he signed with Chicago Fire FC. Collin and Taylor discuss the pressures and obstacles that athletes face, but Collin says that nothing matters when he has a ball at his feet and playing the game he loves. Collin shares with Taylor the advice he has received over his six professional seasons and now as a veteran himself, the advice he would give a young player entering the league. As an American-Peruvian professional soccer player, Collin has traveled the world representing the U.S. and Peru national teams. We also learn that Collin is a BIG rom-com guy. Please enjoy, Collin Fernandez! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Whether it is your first or second act, Kimberly Gionta and Yvette Frampton of The Honey Empire are an example of pursuing your dreams at any stage of life. Yvette and Kimberly crossed paths and shared their passion for music, which grew into them taking music lessons together and the formation of their cover band, VINE. The two were inspired to write music on their own and re-branded to The Honey Empire with the addition of several talented bandmates. These rockin' moms share with Taylor the message they want to give their kids and listeners and how they tap into their own lives and societal issues when writing music. The three discuss how musicians have to be vulnerable and take risks to connect with listeners and the realization that we are in control of our destiny. The Honey Empire's intent is to create music with bold and inspiring messages and is learning about the music industry one lyric at a time. Please enjoy Kimberly Gionta and Yvette Frampton of The Honey Empire! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

If you can’t take the heat, get out of Mila Furman's kitchen! Mila Furman, Girl and the Kitchen, is an entrepreneur, private chef, blogger, and recently launched cooking courses on how to cook in an approachable and non-anxiety filled way. Mila's inventive recipes and authentic self have appeared on Windy City Live, WGN, Fox 32, to name a few. Mila was open about losing her mom at a young age, managing anxiety, and the importance of integrity and authenticity as she leads her team of all women. The two talk about all things cooking, including a few of Taylor's cooking fails. As Mila would say, "when in doubt, zest it out!" Mila and Taylor bond over their appreciation for Bravo TV, especially the Real Housewives franchise. "Good food, done right" is Mila's line, and she is doing it right and more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Michael Lattner never fails to mention, "make good decisions," and he has truly taken his own advice. As the second person hired at Global Electronic Trading Company (GETCO), Michael Lattner was an early adopter of electrification of markets, stocks, futures, and the rest is history. He retired at 45 years old and shares with Taylor that sobriety and his family are the reasons for his success. Michael said that his late father, Johnny Lattner (Heisman Trophy winner in 1953), was a great example to him and his 7 siblings to be modest and generous. Taylor and Michael discuss the importance of finding key business trends and what an entrepreneur should know when investing. Michael had no idea he would have what he has today and shares that his humble beginnings and family shaped the person he is. Michael Lattner is the most generous and humble person Taylor knows, and anyone that knows him says the same. A lot to be thankful for this week with Michael Lattner! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Helen Berkun is the ultimate hustler wearing many hats, including fashion photographer, celebrity stylist, creative director, influencer, shoe collector, wife, and mother. Helen was born in the former USSR and immigrated to the US at age eight, and she hustled with an entrepreneurial mindset ever since. "Doing it all in 24 hours or less," as Helen would say. With 20 years in the fashion industry, Helen shares with Taylor her background in editorial photography, her role in the infancy of the brand Akira, celebrity styling Kristin Cavallari, Jenny McCarthy, John Malkovich, Monica Pederson, Erin Andrews, to name a few. Helen and Taylor discuss how social media is prevalent in their lives and how to master the ever-changing platforms, what a day in the life of an influencer looks like, and what it means to hustle. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Kevin Doherty is a voice actor and creative artist in Chicago. Taylor knows him as Uncle Kev, however, you know him as the voice in the intro of each Taylor'd to You episode or spotted as an extra on Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, Fargo, Empire, Shameless, and all of the other Chicago based TV shows. Kevin shares with Taylor the unconventional path he took when he decided to quit his sales job and pursue his dream of becoming a voice actor. Taylor learns about the voice over industry as Kevin walks her through a day in the life of a voice actor, as well as shares a life-changing event that led him to on-camera work. Not only is Kevin unbelievably talented and has "a voice that shines," he is one of the funniest people Taylor knows and has her laughing throughout the entire episode. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Taylor encourages you to VOTE today and embrace other opinions. While on your way to the polls, listen to a teaser of next week's episode with a voice actor and creative artist in Chicago... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Marie P. Anderson is an internationally published author, former fashion model with several decades of experience scouting, founder of Boss Babe Models, activist, public speaker, and black belt. Marie developed and managed fashion models from inside every Chicago top fashion model agency, including the discovery of the one and only Cindy Crawford. Marie shares the glamorous side of the industry, as well as the darker side…Taylor and Marie talk about the pressing social issues that models face, including hostile work environments and sexual impropriety, drug & alcohol abuse, and Marie’s experience with all of the above. Marie is candid about her experiences in the fashion model industry, addiction, and her intense passion for empowering anyone she meets. Marie is breaking down barriers and leading many lives in positive directions through her TRUTH. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

David Edwards is an offensive lineman for the Los Angeles Rams. David entered the 2019 NFL Draft and was selected by the Rams in the fifth round; 169th pick overall. David was named an All-American at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. David and his fellow O-line were featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s 2018 college football preview issue. David and Taylor discussed David’s football career starting at their alma mater Downers Grove North High School as a 215 lb. quarterback to now a 308 lb. offensive lineman in the NFL. The two talk the game of “smack talk," misconceptions about NFL players, and the best advice he has been given on his football journey. Taylor couldn’t be more proud and excited that her longtime friend’s childhood dream was realized as an NFL player.  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Natalie Craig is a plus size fashion blogger in Chicago. Natalie and Taylor discussed the unrealistic body ideals that society promotes, the effect of social media and the comparison theory, and how to "Be Your Own Goals." Natalie was named InfluenceHer Collective's "Most Inspiring InfluenceHer of 2018", Folio's "Top Women in Media 2020", and Insyze's "Top 100 Plus Size Blogger 2020.” Natalie has been featured in Glamour, Chicago Tribune, Refinery29, USA Today, The Steve Harvey Show, just to name a few! Natalie is a driving force in the fashion industry and is creating impactful conversations on positive body image. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com

Hello there! My name is Taylor Doherty and I invite you to join me every Tuesday, as I have genuine, raw, and compelling conversations with amazing individuals. They are everyday people who just don't have everyday stories. Each guest's story is unique and Taylor'd in its own way, and that's exactly what I love about them!  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit taylordtakes.substack.com