TheraSwifts

In this episode, Meredith interviews Crystal Haryanto, an economic consultant and author of the new book The Glory of Giving Everything: The Taylor Swift Business Model. They discuss the creation of Crystal’s course centered around Taylor Swift’s business strategy, the intersection of her artistry with public policy, and the unique relationship between Swift and her fans. Crystal shares insights from her upcoming book, which explores the business model behind Taylor Swift's success and the significance of giving in the creative process.

Episode show notes:

* Purchase Crystal’s book The Glory of Giving Everything: The Taylor Swift Business Model

Episode chapters:

00:00Introduction to Crystal Herrianto

01:58Crystal's Swifty Origin Story

05:32The Impact of Taylor Swift on Personal Growth

07:43Creating a Course on Taylor Swift

10:37 Exploring Taylor Swift Through Policy

13:51 Reflections on Taylor's Music and Ownership

17:04 Taylor Swift as a Billionaire with a Purpose

18:51 The Role of Fans in Taylor Swift's Success

20:34 Taylor Swift's Community Engagement and Activism

22:09 Taylor's Unique Business Model and Artistic Integrity

24:49 Marketing Genius: Storytelling and Engagement

29:58 Future Prospects: What’s Next for Taylor Swift?

33:39 The Glory of Giving Everything: Insights from Crystal's Book

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

In this episode, Lauren and Meredith chat with Rachel Feder and Tiffany Tatreau, the brilliant minds (and sisters!) behind Taylor Swift by the Book. They share how their Swiftie origin stories sparked their book, a literary deep dive into Taylor’s lyrics. From unpacking recurring themes in Taylor’s discography to celebrating the poetic brilliance of her songwriting, this conversation is a feast for fans who see Taylor as both pop icon and literary genius.

Episode show notes:

* Buy Taylor Swift by the Book today!

* Follow Rachel and Tiffany on Instagram.

Episode chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Taylor Swift by the Book

01:59 Swiftie Origin Stories

06:14 The Creative Process Behind the Book

10:11L iterary Analysis of Taylor Swift's Work

17:27 Thematic Elements in Swift's Music

23:03 Taylor's Version: Reclaiming Her Masters

27:49 The Aesthetic of the Book

33:18 Future of Taylor Swift's Music and Potential Sequels

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

In this heartfelt and high-energy episode, we’re joined by Rachel — aka @happinessforswift on Instagram — for a deep dive into her Swiftie origin story and the joyful, creative life she’s built around it. Rachel opens up about how Taylor Swift’s music has supported her mental health, sparked her artistic expression, and shaped her dreams of becoming an elementary school teacher (yes, Taylor-themed classroom décor included!). We talk about the wild world of Swiftie merch collecting, what it’s like connecting with Taylor Nation, and how Rachel channels her fandom into her love of baking and community-building. This episode is a warm hug for anyone who’s ever found themselves, healed themselves, or dreamed a little bigger because of Taylor Swift.

Show notes:

Follow Rachel (@happinessforswift) on Instagram

Episode chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Rachel and Her Journey as a Swiftie

04:51 The Evolution of Rachel's Instagram Account

09:45 Taylor Swift's Impact on Rachel's Mental Health

12:05 The Role of Music in Adolescence

19:02 Merchandise Wars: The Competitive Nature of Swiftie Culture

22:50 Interactions with Taylor Swift and Taylor Nation

28:08 Baking Dreams: Rachel's Culinary Aspirations

32:46 Future Aspirations: Teaching and Inspiring Others

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

What happens when four Swiftie therapists walk into a podcast? In this special crossover episode, Lauren and Meredith team up with Ashleigh and Kati (hosts of the podcast TheraTay) for a rich conversation about healing, heartbreak, and the deep emotional resonance of Taylor Swift’s music. Together, they unpack the soulful ache of “The Prophecy,” explore how open-ended questions unlock hidden truths in therapy, and reflect on what it means to long for something more — in love, in life, and in ourselves. This episode is a celebration of vulnerability, desire, and the kind of community that makes it safe to feel it all.

Episode show notes:

* Follow TheraTay on Instagram

* Listen to TheraTay on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

In this episode, we’re joined by writer and passionate Swiftie Elizabeth Richardson to talk about her upcoming novel TRAD — a sharp, thought-provoking take on the tradwife trend. We dive into her writing process, the messy business of deconstructing religion, and what it means to be a woman in a culture obsessed with nostalgia and control. Along the way, we explore how Taylor Swift shapes the cultural conversation around femininity and feminism. Plus, Elizabeth gives us a behind-the-scenes look at launching a debut novel. Swiftie writers, you don’t want to miss this episode!

Episode show notes:

* Donate to the GoFundMe for Aaliyah

* Follow Elizabeth on Instagram

* Subscribe to Elizabeth’s newsletter

Episode chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Elizabeth Richardson and Her Work

01:28 The Concept Behind 'Trad' and Its Inspiration

04:45 Exploring the Themes of Online Identity and Celebrity

08:29 The Complexity of Deconstruction and Personal Narratives

11:58 The Impact of Social Media on Authenticity

16:37 Navigating Tradwife Culture and Feminism

19:19 The Modern TradWife Phenomenon

22:23 Exploring Gender Roles and Nostalgia

26:03 Taylor Swift as a Cultural Touchstone

29:00 Navigating Political Divides in Personal Relationships

33:45 Navigating Political Ideologies and Personal Beliefs

35:10 The Complexity of Changing Minds

36:14 The Impact of Social Media on Public Perception

38:01 Silence as a Form of Power

40:15 The Fascination with Celebrity Publicists

45:36 The Future of Writing and Storytelling

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

In this episode, Lauren talks with Maddy, founder of Foolery — a Swiftie merch brand turned political platform. Maddy shares how her love for Taylor Swift inspired a business rooted in community, creativity and activism. We explore how fandom can fuel political action, why accessible advocacy matters, and how art (and merch!) can spark real change. From mutual aid to local organizing, this conversation is a rallying cry for Swifties ready to make an impact.

Show notes:

* Check out Foolery’s amazing merch

* Follow Foolery on Instagram

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Foolery and Maddy's Journey

03:07 Maddy's Connection to Taylor Swift

06:30 The Birth of Foolery: From Passion to Business

09:06 Transitioning to Full-Time Entrepreneurship

11:50 Political Engagement Through Merch

17:41 Creating a Community for Swifties and Activism

19:11 Navigating Fame and Political Responsibility

22:11 Art as a Political Tool

24:35 Community Engagement and Activism

27:49 Overcoming Barriers to Political Participation

30:37 Finding Your Advocacy Lane

32:43 Local Action in a Global Context

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

In this powerful episode, we talk with Lex, the founder of Swiftie Nights Vienna, about how one fan’s dream became a thriving Swiftie community — and how that community came together in the face of heartbreak. Lex opens up about the emotional aftermath of the canceled Eras Tour shows due to a terrorist threat, and the ripple effect it had on Swifties across Vienna. We explore how fans processed the shock and sadness, the birth of the now-iconic Friendship Bracelet Tree, and the deep healing that can come from collective mourning. This episode is a tribute to the resilience of fandom, the magic of music, and the power of finding your people — even when the unthinkable happens.

Episode show notes:

* Follow Swiftie Nights Vienna on Instagram

* Want to be featured on a future episode of TheraSwifts? We're accepting submissions for interviews! Swifties of all identities are encouraged to apply. Please complete our Interview Submission Form to get the process started.

* If you would like to submit a question for Meredith and Lauren to answer on the podcast, please submit your Dear TheraSwifts question via this anonymous Google form.

* Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for future updates and follow us on Instagram (@theraswiftspod) to stay connected!

Episode chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Swiftie Nights Vienna

02:47 The Birth of a Community

06:05 Creating Safe Spaces for Swifties

09:07 The Magic of Taylor Swift Parties

12:09 The Impact of the Ares Tour

14:59 Coping with the Concert Cancellation

17:49 Navigating Community and Safety

21:11 Emotional Aftermath and Resilience

28:27 Understanding the Impact of the Concert Cancellation

30:48 The Magic of Community and Togetherness

32:31 The Birth of the Friendship Bracelet Tree

35:54 A Lasting Legacy: The Friendship Tree as a Landmark

36:36 The Juxtaposition of Joy and Grief

38:03 Navigating Grief and Community Healing

41:20 The Emotional Weight of Music and Memory

44:05 The Complexity of Grief and Healing

50:37 Standing Together: Community Resilience and Support

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

Episode show notes:

* Want to be featured on a future episode of TheraSwifts? We're accepting submissions for interviews! Swifties of all identities are encouraged to apply. Please complete our Interview Submission Form to get the process started.

* If you would like to submit a question for Meredith and Lauren to answer on the podcast, please submit your Dear TheraSwifts question via this anonymous Google form.

* Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for future updates and follow us on Instagram (@theraswiftspod) to stay connected!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

In this episode, we sit down with Alyssa, creator of the @audhdswifties Instagram account, to explore how Taylor Swift’s music has shaped her healing journey. Alyssa shares about the experience of receiving a late diagnosis and how it reframed her understanding of herself and the world around her. Together, we dive into the intersections of neurodivergence, mental health, and music, and how Taylor’s lyrics have offered both solace and empowerment along the way.

Episode show notes:

* Follow Alyssa on Instagram at @audhdswifties!

* Want to be featured on a future episode of TheraSwifts? We're accepting submissions for interviews! Swifties of all identities are encouraged to apply. Please complete our Interview Submission Form to get the process started.

* If you would like to submit a question for Meredith and Lauren to answer on the podcast, please submit your Dear TheraSwifts question via this anonymous Google form.

* Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for future updates and follow us on Instagram (@theraswiftspod) to stay connected!

Episode chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Alyssa and Taylor's Music Journey

05:13 Personal Connections to Taylor Swift's Music

10:03 Neurodivergence and Late Diagnosis

15:10 The Impact of the Pandemic on Neurodivergence Awareness

20:07 Reframing Neurodivergence and Society's Perception

24:59 The Strengths and Challenges of Neurodivergent Individuals

29:56 Advocacy and Support for Neurodivergent Communities

33:45 The Importance of Inclusive Spaces

35:54 Neurodiversity and Society

38:58 Creating Neurodivergent-Friendly Environments

42:10 Experiences at Large Events

49:01 Art as a Means of Expression

54:00 Recommendations for Neurodivergent Accessibility

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com

Bonus episode! In her new PsychoanalySwift brief, Meredith explores the mythology of Cassandra and what Taylor's powerful song teaches us about self-abandonment and the agony of not being believed.

Episode show notes:

* Want to be featured on a future episode of TheraSwifts? We're accepting submissions for interviews! Swifties of all identities are encouraged to apply. Please complete our Interview Submission Form to get the process started.

* If you would like to submit a question for Meredith and Lauren to answer on the podcast, please submit your Dear TheraSwifts question via this anonymous Google form.

* Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for future updates and follow us on Instagram (@theraswiftspod) to stay connected!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theraswiftspod.substack.com