What began as an off-the-cuff observation turned into a full-blown conversation after listeners weighed in on the differences between Beyoncé’s Renaissance film and Taylor Swift’s End of an Era.

In this episode, I unpack your comments and explore what might actually be driving the contrast — race, leadership style, perfectionism, collaboration, narrative choices, or something deeper.

This isn’t about competition. It’s about power, perception, and how different women are allowed to move through the world — and be believed when they do.

Let’s talk about it.

Also!  I want to know more about you.

If you have a few minutes, take the listener survey below and tell me where you’re listening from, what you want more of, and what conversations you want this show to explore next.

Take my survey here!

https://forms.gle/yf5XvCUGyDn9tYUZ7

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://www.patreon.com/c/queenthingspod

https://queenthings.substack.com/

Join the conversation:

TikTok -@queenthingspod⁠,⁠ @iam_kjmiller⁠

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@iamkjmiller

IG:⁠@kjmiller

References:

The Art of Loving - Album by Olivia Dean:

https://open.spotify.com/album/0l8zYqoUeBYg47Gmevq9HZ?si=0Liwb4fUQBKtPHnHq2Op1Q

My TikTok on End of an Era vs. the Renaissance Documentary:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7591937416143850765

Taylor’s End of an Era Docuseries:

https://www.disneyplus.com/browse/entity-a948a435-fdcc-4cbe-b699-85dd62fec60b

Beyoncé’s Renaissance Documentary:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renaissance:_A_Film_by_Beyonc%C3%A9

Ashley Tisdale’s Article from The Cut:

https://www.thecut.com/article/ashley-tisdale-french-mom-group-mean-girls-parenting.html

@erica_mags TikTok about the article:

https://www.tiktok.com/@erica_mags/video/7590906583794732319?lang=en

Girl Get Up feat. SZA:

https://open.spotify.com/track/2igNvPf7RLTZG688Mx8GtU?si=5dd8d1fe96454392

Happy New Year! Beyoncé is officially a billionaire—and the internet is losing its mind. I’m unpacking whether that milestone deserves celebration, side-eying the billionaire discourse, revisiting Taylor Swift’s End of an Era, and making bold pop culture predictions for 2026.

Plus: Black News, celebrity MAGA turns, and some big personal announcements.

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://www.patreon.com/c/queenthingspod

https://queenthings.substack.com/

Join the conversation:

TikTok -@queenthingspod⁠,⁠ @iam_kjmiller⁠

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@iamkjmiller

IG:⁠@kjmiller

References:

Taylor’s End of an Era Docuseries:https://www.disneyplus.com/browse/entity-a948a435-fdcc-4cbe-b699-85dd62fec60b

Beyoncé’s Renaissance Documentary:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renaissance:_A_Film_by_Beyonc%C3%A9

Beyoncé Is Now a Billionaire:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/mattcraig/2025/12/23/beyonce-is-now-a-billionaire/

2026 Met Gala Hosts:

https://www.vogue.com/article/beyonce-nicole-kidman-venus-williams-anna-wintour-2026-met-gala

NickI Minaj and MAGA:

https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/22/entertainment/nicki-minaj-donald-trump-fan

All of Erica Manganelli’s Platforms:

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@erica_mags

IG: https://www.instagram.com/ericamags/

YouTube: ​​https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealEricaMags

In this December bonus teaser, I’m kicking things off with some housekeeping — including when Queen Things returns for Season 4. Then we dive straight into one of the most interesting conversations I’ve seen in pop culture lately: Charlie XCX’s Substack essay on the “realities” of being a pop star, and Swiftologist’s take on why pop doesn’t make icons anymore.

From authenticity to escapism, parasocial closeness to moral responsibility, I’m breaking down what we actually expect from the artists we love, and what happens when relatability becomes the whole brand. It’s messy, it’s nuanced, and yes, I have thoughts.

If you want the full episode — including my take on the Taylor/Trump discourse, Jaclyn Hill, DEI backlash, and this week’s Black News — become a Queen Things subscriber on Apple Podcasts, Patreon, or Substack. See you inside.

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://queenthings.substack.com/

Join the conversation:

TikTok -@queenthingspod⁠,⁠ @iam_kjmiller⁠

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@iamkjmiller

IG:⁠@kjmiller

References:

Charlie XCX’s article:

https://itscharlibb.substack.com/p/the-realities-of-being-a-pop-star

The Swiftologist’s take on pop stardom:

https://youtu.be/QvOjSFqVD2Q?si=tojZiHMxhg-4VmA9

Here’s a taste of my November bonus episode!

In this teaser, I’m breaking down everything I loved (and didn’t) about Wicked: For Good: Cynthia Erivo’s show-stopping vocals, Ariana Grande’s glow-up, why some critics are reaching, and why Michelle Yeoh absolutely made sense in her role.

The full episode goes way deeper, so if you want it all, unlock the bonus feed on Apple Podcasts, Patreon, or Substack!

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://queenthings.substack.com/

Join the conversation:

TikTok - @queenthingspod⁠,⁠ @iam_kjmiller⁠

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@iamkjmiller

IG - @kjmiller

References:

‘Wicked: For Good’: This All Could’ve Been Just One Good Movie:

https://www.npr.org/2025/11/20/nx-s1-5612585/wicked-for-good-review-ariana-grande-cynthia-erivo

In this bonus Queen Things episode, I’m breaking down some of our best listener comments and exploring what they reveal about Taylor’s love of love, her lifelong grudges, and her reputation as pop’s “Capitalist-in-Chief.”

From fan theories about “The Fate of Ophelia” to debates about her silence on social issues, I unpack why none of this surprises me—and why that’s exactly the point.

Plus, a little Black News to close us out!

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://patreon.com/2Queens2Crowns

Join the conversation:

TikTok -⁠@2queens2crowns⁠,⁠@iam_kjmiller⁠, @leta_bitchknow⁠

YouTube -⁠2 Queens 2 Crowns⁠

IG:⁠@kjmiller, ⁠⁠@letabknow 

References:

KJ’s YouTube Video, Taylor Swift is Exactly Who You Think She Is:

https://youtu.be/vkChF5VO2yE?si=NmX4TcCTSAJ1KkZz

Doechii’s Live From The Swamp Tour:

https://www.livefromtheswamp.com/

It’s the Two Queens, Two Crowns season finale!

We’re wrapping up the season by reading your comments on the “Life of a Showgirl” episode—talking Taylor Swift’s album discourse, the lightning bolt necklace drama, and the fine line between critique and conspiracy.

Then it’s a full Black News roundup: Tyra Banks’s hot ice cream empire (yes, really), the Kehlani “Folded” challenge taking all the way over, and Rolling Stone’s top 250 songs of the 21st century (Missy Elliott at #1—we salute you!).

Stay tuned for bonus episodes while we recharge for Season 4!

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://patreon.com/2Queens2Crowns

Join the conversation:

TikTok -⁠@2queens2crowns⁠,⁠@iam_kjmiller⁠, @leta_bitchknow⁠

YouTube -⁠2 Queens 2 Crowns⁠

IG:⁠@kjmiller, ⁠⁠@letabknow 

References:

@justwaynecreative’s post about Taylor’s album being racially coded:

https://www.tiktok.com/@justwaynecreative/video/7560093884991212855

Kylie’s new song:

https://www.eonline.com/news/1423784/kylie-jenners-music-debut-fourth-strike-with-terror-jr

Charlie XCX on SNL:

https://people.com/charli-xcx-crashes-role-model-saturday-night-live-performance-change-11828701

Tyra Banks’ Hot Ice Cream:

https://www.dailydot.com/entertainment/tyra-banks-hot-ice-cream/

Kehlani’s Folded:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFMYx1TibeQ

Some of the Folded Remixes:

https://www.vibe.com/lists/kehlani-folded-challenge-best-of-brandy-toni-braxton/

Rolling Stone’s 250 Greatest Songs of the 21st Century So Far:

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/best-songs-of-the-21st-century-1235410452/

Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl is breaking records, confusing critics, and sending the internet spiraling. 

We’re breaking down the tracks we love, unpacking the backlash (is she really a “trad wife”?), and enjoying this escape from reality.

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://patreon.com/2Queens2Crowns

Join the conversation:

TikTok -⁠@2queens2crowns⁠,⁠@iam_kjmiller⁠, @leta_bitchknow⁠

YouTube -⁠2 Queens 2 Crowns⁠

IG:⁠@kjmiller, ⁠⁠@letabknow 

References:

The Life of A Showgirl:

https://open.spotify.com/album/5HyZy1hYpNTiCLRRy4PeNc?si=A3Me4-qSTSaXxq_bqc1bKQ

Taylor Swift’s Zane Lowe Interview:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUZ9T-hstUI

Taylor’s Jimmy Fallon Interview:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qDW_ZKpvxI

Caro Burke’s Take on TLOAS:

https://www.tiktok.com/@caroclaireburkeee/video/7557727721527250190?q=caro%20burke&t=1759944113969

This week on Two Queens, Two Crowns, we get into Cardi B’s big album debut and the messy back-and-forth with Nicki Minaj that lit up social media. 

We also celebrate Selena Gomez tying the knot with Benny Blanco (and unpack the side-eye from Justin Bieber’s posts). 

Plus, we ponder the trending question: why do the pop charts feel so boring right now, even with big names dropping music?

And for Black News, Erica brings us joy with the return of Reading Rainbow—with a new Black host carrying the torch.

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://patreon.com/2Queens2Crowns

Join the conversation:

TikTok -⁠@2queens2crowns⁠,⁠@iam_kjmiller⁠, @leta_bitchknow⁠

YouTube -⁠2 Queens 2 Crowns⁠

IG:⁠@kjmiller, ⁠⁠@letabknow 

References:

Cardi’s #1 album:

https://www.billboard.com/music/chart-beat/cardi-b-am-i-the-drama-numer-one-billboard-200-chart-1236077406/

Cardi vs. Nicki:

https://pagesix.com/2025/09/30/entertainment/cardi-b-nicki-minaj-trade-barbs-in-another-explosive-social-media-war-missed-me/

Selena’s Wedding:

https://pagesix.com/2025/09/28/celebrity-news/benny-blanco-shares-behind-the-scenes-photos-of-lavish-wedding-to-disney-princess-selena-gomez/

Selena’s mom responds to rumors:

https://www.eonline.com/news/1423103/selena-gomez-benny-blanco-married-mom-mandy-teefey-reacts

Selena’s Wedding Planners:

https://pagesix.com/2025/09/28/celebrity-news/selena-gomez-and-benny-blanco-hire-same-wedding-planners-as-justin-and-hailey-bieber/

Justin’s carousel:

https://pagesix.com/2025/09/28/celebrity-news/fans-troll-justin-bieber-over-cryptic-post-about-marriage-as-ex-selena-gomez-weds-benny-blanco/

Sam Murphy’s TikTok on pop music today:

https://www.tiktok.com/@popsamcam/video/7555567238368087327?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7517361012459193886

Reading Rainbow’s return:

https://www.today.com/popculture/tv/reading-rainbow-new-host-mychal-the-librarian-rcna234638

This week on Two Queens, Two Crowns, KJ breaks down the 2025 Emmy winners (and snubs), from The Pitt to Seth Rogen’s big moment, and why Beyoncé Bowl should’ve taken home a trophy.

Then it’s on to Lizzo’s latest reinvention—what counts as a “flop” in 2025, and how viral sounds stack up against chart success.

KJ also dives into Beyoncé and Taylor Swift’s complicated optics when it comes to proximity to MAGA supporters, Cardi B’s album rollout featuring Janet Jackson, and, in Black News, the backlash to Pilates creator Raven’s viral “luxury” take.

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://patreon.com/2Queens2Crowns

Join the conversation:

TikTok -⁠@2queens2crowns⁠,⁠@iam_kjmiller⁠, @leta_bitchknow⁠

YouTube -⁠2 Queens 2 Crowns⁠

IG:⁠@kjmiller, ⁠⁠@letabknow 

References:

2025 Emmy Winners:

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/emmy-winners-2025-list/

Lizzo on Million Dollaz Worth of Game Podcast:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tcwWgrS8Zg

Beyoncé at the Reform Alliance Gala:

https://www.blackenterprise.com/jay-z-beyonce-backlash-ivanka-trump-jared-kushner/

Cardi’s Collaborators on Am I The Drama:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DOorIulj_QY/

Black News - Pilatesbodyraven:

https://www.instagram.com/its_onsite/reel/DOjInQkDa6t/

Maintenance Phase Episode on Pilates:

https://maintenancephase.buzzsprout.com/1411126/episodes/13157627-pilates

This week on Two Queens, Two Crowns, the VMAs made us feel like certified elder millennials. From Mariah Carey’s forever-diva energy to Tate McRae’s “diaper chic,” we break down the performances, the fashion, and why the award show itself feels like it’s on life support.

We also dig into Sabrina Carpenter’s set—her pro-trans messaging, her connection to Taylor Swift, and why we still think she’s holding back.

Then, we turn to Lizzo’s New York Magazine profile and unpack her rebirth moment, what it means to start over after controversy, and why going deeper with fans might be the only way to win in 2025.

Plus, Megan Thee Stallion finds the most iconic way to serve legal papers, and Black News brings us everything from purple-dress wedding drama to dog-food lunches.

Subscribe for monthly bonus episodes:

https://patreon.com/2Queens2Crowns

Join the conversation:

TikTok -⁠@2queens2crowns⁠,⁠@iam_kjmiller⁠, @leta_bitchknow⁠

YouTube -⁠2 Queens 2 Crowns⁠

IG:⁠@kjmiller, ⁠⁠@letabknow 

References:

2025 MTV VMAs:

https://www.mtv.com/event/vma

CNN’s roundup of VMA looks:

https://www.cnn.com/2025/09/08/style/mtv-vma-red-carpet-fashion

Lizzo Starts Over:

https://www.vulture.com/article/lizzo-comeback-lawsuit-canceled-zeitgeist-interview.html

Lizzo’s TikTok on Song of Summer:

https://www.tiktok.com/@lizzo/video/7546668101257956638

Megan Thee Stallion Serves Adin Ross:

https://www.bet.com/article/kiklke/megan-thee-stallion-serves-adin-ross-court-papers-with-a-mariachi-band

Purple Wedding Dress Gate on TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@dianalively1/video/7546403940317809933?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7517361012459193886

Husband Packs Dog Food for Wife on TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@ragebaitorrealtake/video/7544792195216215327?q=%40kaitjbrooks&t=1757528769800

KJ’s TikTok On Her Natural Hair:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7548150013906488589?lang=en