On this episode of The Spin Cycle Podcast, Kiara plays pop music genealogist, hilariously mapping out the “family trees” of female pop stars. She sorts icons like Kelly Clarkson, Madonna, and Mariah Carey into matriarchal lineages, assigning “daughters” based on vocal chops, style, and drama. Expect snappy takes on everything from “Power Belters” to “Diary Core Girls,” a Beyoncé-is-incomparable disclaimer, and a fantasy pop family reunion seating chart. If you’ve ever wondered whether Taylor Swift and Avril Lavigne are musical kin or why Britney Spears is everyone’s dance mom, this episode is your new pop culture ancestry test.

Introduction to Pop Ancestry (00:00:32)

Kiara introduces the concept of "pop ancestry" and explains her inspiration for categorizing pop artists into metaphorical family trees.

The Power Belters (00:01:41)

Discussion of Kelly Clarkson, Demi Lovato, and Reneé Rapp as the "Power Belters" family, focusing on their vocal strength and emotional delivery.

The Technician/Vixens (00:03:01)

Christina Aguilera and Sabrina Carpenter are grouped as "Technician/Vixens," emphasizing their vocal precision and feminine, self-empowered sexuality.

The High Divas (00:04:33)

Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande, and Adele are discussed as "High Divas," known for their operatic, gospel-influenced vocal prowess.

The Subversive Showgirls (00:06:04)

Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Chappell Roan are described as "Subversive Showgirls," noted for genre fluidity, performance art, and camp aesthetics.

The Choreographed Heartbreakers (00:08:58)

Britney Spears, Addison Rae, and Tate McRae are presented as "Choreographed Heartbreakers," focusing on dance, performance, and stylized vocals.

The Diary Core Girls (00:11:38)

Avril Lavigne, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and Gracie Abrams are grouped as "Diary Core Girls," highlighting songwriting, genre-bending, and personal lyrics.

Honorable Mentions: Pop Grandmothers and Theatrical Artists (00:14:43)

Janet Jackson, Pink, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Lana Del Rey, and Billie Eilish are discussed as influential figures and offshoots from the main families.

Beyoncé: Incomparable Icon (00:17:35)

Kiara explains why Beyoncé stands alone, with no metaphorical daughters, due to her unmatched influence and artistry.

Pop Family Reunion: The Seating Chart (00:17:59)

A playful segment imagining a pop music family reunion, assigning artists to tables based on their "family" and vibe.

Closing (00:20:23)

Kiara invites listeners to share their thoughts and feedback on the pop ancestry discussion, hinting at a possible part two.