Queen Things

They both love money - but who loves it more?

I'm finally (and somewhat unseriously) crowning the *TRUE* Capitalist in Chief.

We’re grading them on four monetization strategies: music, live shows, products, and side hustles.

Let's get into it.

***Sign Up Here for the Queen Reads Book Club!***https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queen-reads-book-club-tickets-2003004241606

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Queen Reads Book Club Sign Up Link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queen-reads-book-club-tickets-2003004241606

Forbes List of Richest Self-Made Women in America 2026:

https://www.forbes.com/lists/self-made-women/

Tortured Poets Variants:

https://radiox.cms.socastsrm.com/2025/01/15/taylor-swifts-tortured-poets-department-is-luminates-top-album-of-2024-in-u-s/

Showgirl variants:

https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/music/story/2025-10-14/taylor-swift-the-life-of-a-showgirl-first-week-sales

Cowboy Carter variants:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cowboy_Carter

Is Miley a pop star if she won’t do what pop stars do?

And, is Taylor a rude, fan-hating celeb?

Plus, some DWTS drama, and a little Beyoncé to brighten your day.

Let’s get into it.

***Sign Up Here for the Queen Reads Book Club!***https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queen-reads-book-club-tickets-2003004241606

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Queen Reads Book Club Sign Up Link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queen-reads-book-club-tickets-2003004241606

Miley Cyrus at the Hollywood Bowl:

https://variety.com/2026/music/news/miley-cyrus-fires-back-criticism-hollywood-bowl-concert-1236916307/

Some Fan Reactions to the Show:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iamerikdavid/video/7697670875469876493?_r=1&_t=ZT-9Ak2ZFSRK85

https://www.tiktok.com/@itsalexmars/video/7697711477158841614?_r=1&_t=ZT-9Ak2T6SUIlJ

https://www.tiktok.com/@iamerikdavid/video/7698354553510481165?_r=1&_t=ZT-9Ak2bygUVH3

https://www.tiktok.com/@_alyssayung_/video/7697636348269776159?_r=1&_t=ZT-9Ak2VyTqydx

https://www.tiktok.com/@tylerjacksontippett/video/7698483827982880031?_r=1&_t=ZT-9Ak2awcYrPR

Sam Murphy on Miley Cyrus:

https://www.tiktok.com/@popsamcam/video/7688440508095483166?lang=en

Taylor performed at the Academy Museum Gala:

https://variety.com/2026/film/news/taylor-swift-performance-academy-gala-five-songs-1236915817/

Taylor at the Chiefs Game:

https://www.tiktok.com/@maggiemaytok/video/7698439263515430174?_r=1&_t=ZT-9Ak2TjeJOfu

Val’s DWTS comment:

https://pagesix.com/2026/10/21/celebrity-news/val-chmerkovskiys-dwts-suspension-officially-lifted-after-carrie-ann-inaba-controversy/

Midnight by Todrick Hall:

https://www.midnightoffbway.com/

Knowles - Rowland House:

https://www.housingfinance.com/developments/knowles-rowland-house-opens-houston

Dr. El-Sayed clips:

https://www.tiktok.com/@abdulelsayed/video/7697811270816353549

https://www.tiktok.com/@nowthisimpact/video/7694798938502614286?q=abdul%20al-sayed%20serious%20question&t=1792602228820

Zara Larsson on Popcast:

https://www.tiktok.com/@popcast/video/7697991780238658829?_r=1&_t=ZT-9Ak544Bf8dJ

The Women by Kristin Hannah:

https://kristinhannah.com/books/the-women/

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna:

https://sangumandanna.com/irregular-witches

Kelly Clarkson’s toy store standoff just escalated...if you can believe it.Then: my Grammy predictions for Taylor’s chances, who I actually think should win Album, Record, and Song of the Year, plus a surprise from the country category. A little Broadway talk, and a hair extension story that’s got the internet finally agreeing on something. Let’s get into it.

***Sign Up Here for the Queen Reads Book Club!***https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queen-reads-book-club-tickets-2003004241606

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Queen Reads Book Club Sign Up Link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queen-reads-book-club-tickets-2003004241606

The OSU Dance Team:

https://www.tiktok.com/@universeofdance/video/7597262473993014558?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7693606776189928990

My TikTok on the Grammys:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7694752113993239821?lang=en

Art of Play Interview on USA Today:

​​https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTycSpRPj/

Security Footage from Art of Play:

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTycAesVA/

My TikTok about Kelly Clarkson:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7695814245757259022

Clip from Midnight:

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTy3KVBeG/

Kristin’s Review of Midnight:

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTyWqswgo/

$1k sew in vs. $4k sew in:

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTy3KtREw/

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTy3KKjPk/

A lot of men, none of them making it easy.

We’re kicking off with your Swiftologist takes, digging into Pete Davidson’s foolish Variety interview, breezing through Eminem and Kid Rock "setting politics aside" for a new song, and, frustratingly, addressing the Cornell case.

Let’s get into it.

***Sign Up Here for the Queen Reads Book Club!***https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queen-reads-book-club-tickets-2003004241606

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Queen Reads Book Club Sign Up Link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/queen-reads-book-club-tickets-2003004241606

The Calamity Club, by Kathryn Stockett:

https://www.lemuriabooks.com/The-Calamity-Club-Kathryn-Stockett-p/9781954118812.htm

The clip i posted about the Swiftologist’s Reaction to Encore:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7691808989226519821

RJ Rokosz’s Take on The Swiftologist:

https://www.tiktok.com/@rjrokosz/video/7693237116825898271

Pete Davidson’s Interview with Variety:

https://www.tiktok.com/@varietymagazine/video/7691364891910737166?_r=1&_t=ZT-9AKb2DAxRQj

Eminem and Kid Rock:

https://www.complex.com/music/a/will-lavin/eminem-kid-rock-friendship-politics-7-sins-new-track

Jeremy Strong Interview with E! News:

https://www.tiktok.com/@enews/video/7692982237607841054?_r=1&_t=ZP-9AKcdBwu2Bj

Jack Edwards’ Video:

https://www.tiktok.com/@jack_edwards/video/7693232179605703958?_r=1&_t=ZT-9AKd4YnYqvm

I sat down and reacted to the Swiftologist's reaction to Taylor's Encore tracks…I disagree with almost everything he says, but I don't think that means what you'd think it means.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

The Swiftologist Reaction Video to Encore:

https://youtu.be/WAEf_KhiuyI?si=jxXRW_RzEVY0HMLz

Metacritic:

https://www.metacritic.com/

Ed Sheeran spoke out on stage, and I get into whether it really moves the needle.

Then: the new Taylor Swift clues that have Swifties convinced something's dropping at the VMAs, and Jay-Z and Colin Kaepernick's very public back-and-forth about who really sold out.

Let's get into it.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Meredith Masony’s TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@thats_inappropriate/video/7684044100189965599?_r=1&_t=ZT-99mVa2LOWmU

Ed Sheeran’s Opening Speech in Philadelphia:

https://www.tiktok.com/@miraquetevi/video/7687426998360231199?_r=1&_t=ZT-99wpeWEcKdS

Ed Sheeran’s Closing Speech in Philadelphia:

https://www.tiktok.com/@bridgetgoes/video/7687462005648788749?_r=1&_t=ZT-99wpgf01tUM

The Taylor Explainer:

https://www.tiktok.com/@thetaylorexplainer

Taylor Swift’s Website:

https://www.taylorswift.com/read-my-letter/

Taylor’s videos on Spotify:

https://newsroom.spotify.com/2026-09-16/taylor-swift-music-videos-catalog-spotify/

Nikki’s TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@nikkiking23/video/7688066826592341261?_r=1&_t=ZT-99wpchvQk85

The Perilous Fight, By Colin Kaepernick:

https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/colin-kaepernick/the-perilous-fight/9781538777879/

Colin Kaepernick Interview with Time Magazine:

https://www.tiktok.com/@time/video/7686572560879766798?_r=1&_t=ZT-99wphD4SuHG

Iced Coffee at Job Interviews:

https://www.tiktok.com/@caitlinrecruiter/video/7686166507759455501?_r=1&_t=ZT-99wooBlnFYD

My Take on Iced Coffee at Job Interviews:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7688000241294937357

Blood Over Bright Haven, by M.L. Wang:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/755073/blood-over-bright-haven-by-m-l-wang/

Ed Sheeran's tour is in chaos after dropping Macklemore, and I've got real problems with the statement he put out.

Then: Taylor's Emmys sketch with Mariska Hargitay had Swifties convinced they'd cracked a code, Sydney Sweeney's new ad backlash, Jasmine Crockett's controversial call to honor Chris Brown, and a white news poll I need your take on.

Let's get into it.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Something We Said, by Elizabeth Stordeur Pryor:

https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Something-We-Said/Elizabeth-Stordeur-Pryor/9781982154509

Carrie Soto Is Back, by Taylor Jenkins Reid:https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/646857/carrie-soto-is-back-by-taylor-jenkins-reid/

Strangers, by Belle Burden:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/760850/strangers-by-belle-burden/

Fruit Fly, by Josh Silver:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/826827/fruit-fly-by-josh-silver/

Love You More, by Emily Giffin:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/723827/love-you-more-by-emily-giffin/

Sydney Sweeny’s Novig ad:

https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/sep/14/ariarne-titmus-comments-sydney-sweeney-sexualising-womens-sport

Macklemore’s Statement:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DdRdsy0m2HK/?hl=en

NPR Article on Ed Sheeran’s Tour:

https://www.npr.org/2026/09/16/g-s1-143549/ed-sheeran-tour-trouble

Ed Sheeran’s Statement:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DdT-6KGAtuI/?img_index=1

Jasmine Crockett Enters Chris Brown’s Music into Congressional Record:

https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/chris-brown-backlash-jasmine-crockett-honor-response-1236341107/

Taylor Swift Emmy’s Sketch:

https://people.com/taylor-swift-makes-surprise-appearance-at-2026-emmy-awards-12121529

Taylor Easter Eggs:

https://www.tiktok.com/@almost50swifty/photo/7685772158492085534?_r=1&_t=ZT-99mVTx9eaNx

Meredith Masony’s TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@thats_inappropriate/video/7684044100189965599?_r=1&_t=ZT-99mVa2LOWmU

Taylor Jenkins Reid:

https://taylorjenkinsreid.com/

Emily Giffin:

https://www.emilygiffin.com/

John of John, by Douglas Stuart:

https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/John-of-John-(Oprahs-Book-Club)/Douglas-Stuart/9781668173732?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=24236596044&gbraid=0AAAAADv-uEmNU4vQRfzvLdCm7FxKbKBRi

P!nk is the latest artist doubling down on a bad take, and I'm getting all the way into my thoughts on it.

Then: the real story behind Alix Earle and Alex Cooper's beef, now that Earle's finally addressed it on her Netflix show, plus who I think is winning the fight.

And a little on North West headlining her own concert at 13.

Let's get into it.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

My Episode on Lemme Fix It!:

https://youtu.be/QH2EPEg9XyQ?si=QV0gzqJuyr5CTeH3

Taipei Story, by R.F. Kuang:

https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/taipei-story

I Hate It Here, by Taylor Swift:

https://open.spotify.com/track/3hlGuz3loYoLfI3bpwieWq?si=834427d2ec0c4974

Macklemore’s comments on Ed Sheeran’s Tour:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq5x3vjq06qo

P!nk’s response and backlash:

https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/celebrity/articles/pink-responds-backlash-over-post-135443983.html

Earle Meets World:

https://www.netflix.com/title/82085057

My take on the latest Earle/Cooper beef:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7681789062889393422

North West’s Solo Show in Chicago:

https://www.xxlmag.com/north-west-debut-solo-show-chicago/

https://www.theclassicrockstation.com/2026/09/08/north-west-performs-first-solo-live-show-at-the-vic-theatre-following-canceled-tour/

Piercing On My Hand, by North West:

https://youtu.be/gIJSjrpM32s?si=RElsiwRAQDRuNzVH

Good People, by Patmeena Sabit:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/777077/good-people-by-patmeena-sabit/

The Revelation of Dionne Daphne, by Mara Brock Akil:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/713565/the-revelation-of-dionne-daphne-by-mara-brock-akil/

The Vanishing Half, by Brit Bennett:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/576782/the-vanishing-half-by-brit-bennett/

The Bright Years, by Sarah Damoff:

https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Bright-Years/Sarah-Damoff/9781668061459

Fruit Fly, by Josh Silver:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/826827/fruit-fly-by-josh-silver/

Y'all had a lot to say about whether it's really Travis Kelce who's made Taylor more open — so I'm getting into it, plus why I don't think it's that simple.

Then: how Olivia Rodrigo pulled off another masterpiece with Daisy Chain Fields, and Cardi B and Samyra's Old Navy round two, including who I think has the range to actually weigh in.

Let's get into it.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Daisy Chain Fields Festival:

https://www.daisychainfields.com/

Kelly Clarkson’s Final Show:

https://deadline.com/2026/08/kelly-clarkson-goodbye-daytime-talk-show-tears-final-words-1237063591/

Golden on Kellyoke:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=py_P2TI-gNg

Cardi B and Samyra:

https://www.teenvogue.com/story/heres-why-cardi-bs-joke-about-her-3x-merch-isnt-funny

https://www.tiktok.com/@girlsfighting6/video/7680350974740794654?_r=1&_t=ZT-99N4FVB2lqv

Keke Palmer on Raven-Symoné:

https://www.tiktok.com/@5ivelive_/video/7679578708977405214?q=sivelive_%20raven&t=1788362546241

A.J. Alford Books on Reading Black Authors:

https://www.tiktok.com/@aj_alfordwrites/video/7678474602699443486

My take on her take:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7679988438443101453?lang=en

We Don’t Talk About Carol, by Kristen L. Berry:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/771526/we-dont-talk-about-carol-by-kristen-l-berry/

The True Love Experiment, by Christina Lauren:

https://christinalaurenbooks.com/books/the-true-love-experiment/

Dolly All The Time, by Annabel Monaghan:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/769965/dolly-all-the-time-a-gma-book-club-pick-by-annabel-monaghan/

I, Medusa, by Ayana Gray:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/762979/i-medusa-by-ayana-gray/

My August 5 star book recap:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7680358159424310542

Taylor's Grammy performance and hour-long interview had me completely gagged — the mashup, the vocals, the way she addressed the Showgirl backlash without ever naming it. I'm breaking it all down.

This episode is also a chance to talk about what Dolly Parton's legacy has meant to my family, beyond the music.

Plus some thoughts on a rough week in brand marketing and the news on Harry and Meghan.

Let's get into it.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Good Grief, by Sara Bareilles:

https://sarabareilles.lnk.to/GoodGrief

Taylor Swift - The Icon Sessions at the Grammy Museum:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9jaJtmraXA

https://www.youtube.com/live/VJ0LV0T8C1E

Remembering Dolly Parton:

https://apnews.com/live/dolly-parton-8-25-2026

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library:

https://imaginationlibrary.com/

Tarte Cosmetics Contour Stick Controversy:

https://www.thecut.com/article/everything-we-know-about-tarte-cosmetics-snatch-stick-drama.html

https://www.tiktok.com/@thetopnotes/video/7670711267228699917?_r=1&_t=ZT-99D5Bpkv38P

https://www.tiktok.com/@beautymavenraven/video/7675811231277600030?_r=1&_t=ZP-99D5hDnxBTL

Calloway and Good Good:

https://www.wsj.com/cmo-today/good-good-golf-and-callaway-apologize-for-scary-ad-826702ba

Lovesac:

https://cafemom.com/news/deric-cahill-lovesac-couch-ceo-response-tiktok

https://www.tiktok.com/@boldfam/video/7675106751867276557?_r=1&_t=ZP-99D1q1YQUzn

Harry and Meghan moving back to the UK:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czrzm6p6zxeo

All Fours:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/639464/all-fours-by-miranda-july/

Dolly All The Time:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/769965/dolly-all-the-time-a-gma-book-club-pick-by-annabel-monaghan/

Sky Full of Elephants:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/769965/dolly-all-the-time-a-gma-book-club-pick-by-annabel-monaghan/

Drew Afualo's damage control is making things worse, not better — I'm breaking down where it went wrong.

Then: Bethenny Frankel's $42 bagel and what it says about diet culture's rebrand, the BookTok drama I accidentally started this week, and why the NABJ gave Stephen A. Smith a thumbs down award.

Let's get into it.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Lemme Fix It! Podcast:

https://www.youtube.com/@FixItpod

The Kara Goldin Show:

https://karagoldin.com/podcast/

Drew Afualo and ER Fightmaster:

https://www.them.us/entertainment/celebrity/controversy-drew-afualo-er-fightmaster

Bethenny Frankel’s Cafe in the Hamptons:

https://www.fastcompany.com/91591361/bethenny-frankel-supermodel-cafe-response-skinny-culture-back

My TikTok on BookTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7675084494814153997?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7626447009641842206

Authors of Color I’d recommend:

Kennedy Ryan:

https://kennedyryanwrites.com/

Tia Williams:

https://www.tiawilliamswrites.com/

Ashton Lattimore:

https://www.ashtonlattimore.com/

S.A. Cosby:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S._A._Cosby

Tayari Jones:

https://www.tayarijones.com/

Addie E. Citchens:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Addie_E._Citchens

Abby Jimenez:

https://www.authorabbyjimenez.com/

R.F. Kuang:

https://www.rfkuang.com/

Elaine Chou:

https://www.elainehsiehchou.com/

NABJ Gives Stephen A. Smith Thumbs Down:

https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2026-08-16/stephen-a-smith-lashes-out-after-receiving-nabj-thumbs-down-award

What I’m Reading:

The Great Alone, by Kristin Hannah:

https://kristinhannah.com/books/the-great-alone/

Dominion, by Addie E. Citchens:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374609337/dominion/

The True Love Experiment, by Christina Lauren:

https://christinalaurenbooks.com/books/the-true-love-experiment/

Taylor Swift just quietly pulled her music off Trump's TikToks — the internet ran wild with a theory I had to fact-check myself.

Then: Jools LeBron's GoFundMe, a Nantucket shop's "No Influencers" sign, and the debate nobody expected to get this heated.

Let's get into it.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

My TikTok on Ariana stepping back from visibility:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7670890040473439502?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7626447009641842206

Taylor takes her music off Trump posts:

https://www.vanityfair.com/story/taylor-swift-donald-trump-music-posts-tiktok

https://edition.cnn.com/2026/08/10/politics/taylor-swift-trump-music

Jools Lebron steps away from TikTok:

https://www.thepinknews.com/2026/08/12/jools-lebron-very-demure-tiktok-fundraiser-teeth/

No Influencers Sign in Nantucket Store:

https://www.today.com/popculture/nantucket-no-influencers-sign-controversy-explained-rcna590203

https://www.thecut.com/article/nantucket-locals-vs-influencers-paige-lorenze-dairy-boy.html

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/690750/tomorrow-and-tomorrow-and-tomorrow-by-gabrielle-zevin/

This week we’re diving into Ariana Grande’s step back from visibility — her statement, the scrutiny, and why the reaction has me feeling icky.

Also, Hank Green just admitted he's over-relying on AI and BTS pulled out of the Grammys over the new "Asian pop" category - lots of thoughts on both! Let’s get into it.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Ariana Grande Taking a Step Back from Visibility:

https://people.com/ariana-grande-taking-step-back-after-tour-amid-public-health-scrutiny-rep-exclusive-12032395

Ariana discussing the decision at her show in Chicago:

https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/aug/04/ariana-grande-decision-to-step-back-from-visibility-chicago-petal

https://youtu.be/mkxz8zctZOs?si=71Yz6ls_qSnkh5vh

Hank Green’s AI Controversy:

https://www.vulture.com/article/hank-green-chatgpt-ai-controversy-explainer.html

BTS and the Grammys:

https://www.headlinerhub.com/bts-opts-out-of-grammys-following-new-asian-pop-category.html

Love by the Book, by Jessica George:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250282545/lovebythebook/

Yours Truly, by Abby Jimenez:

https://www.authorabbyjimenez.com/yourstrulybook

Kin, by Tayari Jones:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/635411/kin-oprahs-book-club-by-tayari-jones/

This week, I'm breaking down exactly why Taylor’s a far better singer than she gets credit for.

Plus, Anne Hathaway is an ally and she's not being quiet about it — her HRC speech has me feeling a way.

And that Cut article on Gen Z women financing their loser boyfriends' entire lives? We need to talk about it.

Plus a quick check-in on your World Cup halftime show comments and where things stand with Jen Hamilton.

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

My take on the World Cup Halftime Show:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7665729153613843726

Anne Hathaway at the HRC:

https://www.tiktok.com/@nowthisimpact/video/7667292202774695181?_r=1&_t=ZT-98RFKHIYzVd

Taylor’s Vocals:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7666631252493061390

Jen Hamilton:

https://www.tiktok.com/@_jen_hamilton_?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Chelsea Fagan’s take on ageism:

https://www.tiktok.com/@faganchelsea/video/7667893903130938646?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7626447009641842206

The Cut Article “Call Her Mommy”:

https://www.thecut.com/article/young-women-earning-more-money-boyfriends.html

Yesteryear, by Caro Claire Burke:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/780686/yesteryear-a-gma-book-club-pick-by-caro-claire-burke/

Runner, by Ashton Lattimore:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/773544/runner-by-ashton-lattimore/

While Taylor Swift and Jay-Z were busy taking over New York — her wedding, his record-breaking Yankee Stadium residency — I was in Napa Valley celebrating my 40th. I'm back with takes on both.

Plus: the World Cup halftime show, the Undone by Kate scandal, and my honest take on the new Gracie Abrams album.

Let’s go!

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

References:

Taylor’s Wedding:

https://www.elle.com/culture/celebrities/a71852286/taylor-swift-dior-wedding-dress-reveal-plans/

Jay-Z’s Yankee Stadium Residency:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/dougmelville/2026/07/19/jay-z-proved-he-is-still-the-king-of-new-york-and-the-numbers-back-it-up/

2026 World Cup Halftime Show:

https://youtu.be/B7hIiaXBpco?si=Vpz3faNk4Ej4VAgV

Bravo’s Summer House Cast for Season 11:

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/summer-house-season-11-cast-revealed-1236646977/

Undone by Kate Scandal:

https://www.tiktok.com/@undonebykate/video/7663510118159404302?_r=1&_t=ZT-98FOx0pARnZ

https://www.tiktok.com/@malpluscats/video/7664785852693892383?_r=1&_t=ZT-98FOvbYvjp8

https://www.tiktok.com/@itsalexandermae/video/7662365071833648397?_r=1&_t=ZT-98FP2vlwKa5

https://www.tiktok.com/@lilachapmannn/video/7664056435889818910?_r=1&_t=ZT-98FP5coZPAs

Swiftologist on Gracie Abrams’ New Album:

https://www.tiktok.com/@theeswiftologist/video/7663503319519743239?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

My 5-star reads for July:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7665156183950511373?q=kj%20miller&t=1784744595281

I finally listened to Lizzo's new album start to finish — barely holding on by track 12. I'm breaking down what works, what doesn't, and why I think it’s facing a whole lot more than just marketing problems.

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:

Rolling Stone article on Lizzo’s album sales:

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/lizzo-new-album-bitch-charts-industry-1235581224/

Bitch, Album by Lizzo:

https://open.spotify.com/album/2wPyRw9iR2TQQgc8c5NCUk?si=5uDGFLzzTMC-eF2Qkngbbw

Jerome, Song by Lizzo:

https://open.spotify.com/track/3kxsEF30mM0TZWfkOv4XsS?si=d492afaed2154c71

A lot on my mind this week. The Summer House aftermath tried to serve me a victim narrative about Amanda. Monica McNutt called Taylor out at the Knicks game and I have thoughts. Your Ariana Grande comments came in heavy and I'm addressing them directly. And yes, I'm a book girl now - let’s get into it.

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:

Summer House on Bravo:

https://www.bravotv.com/summer-house

West Wilson Not Returning:

https://www.tmz.com/2026/06/15/summer-house-star-west-wilson-not-returning/

Jen Hamilton’s news:

https://people.com/influencer-jen-hamilton-confirms-split-from-husband-brian-after-15-years-together-11998982

Bread Beauty post from Olamide Olowe:

https://www.tiktok.com/@olamideolowe/video/7648051185764601119?_r=1&_t=ZT-97HvDooIJiA

Mented’s Cloud Cream Skin Tint:

https://www.mentedcosmetics.com/collections/cloud-cream-skin-tint

KJ’s 5-star reads:

https://www.tiktok.com/@iam_kjmiller/video/7650974838349253901

KJ’s Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/200570826-kj-miller

Ciara Miller closed out the Summer House reunion, landed a Harper's Bazaar cover, and is booked from here to Cannes. Ariana launched her tour and the internet spent more time on her body than her set list…and we need to talk about that.

Plus: Taylor's got us in our feelings, Olivia's got the Swifties on alert, and Lizzo dropped a new album that few people seem to care about.

Let's get into it.

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:

I Knew It, I Knew You - By Taylor Swift:

https://open.spotify.com/track/5uPaqMMt59KGrdKIitDRqa?si=dc95b47242d849ac

Olivia Rodrigo’s Popcast Episode:

https://youtu.be/0I_tljaH9Bg?si=kRpasJmGGS8frMjg

Bitch - Album by Lizzo:

https://open.spotify.com/album/2wPyRw9iR2TQQgc8c5NCUk?si=mt-lZ4MtQs2_oNj1BiHTqA

Summer House on Bravo:

https://www.bravotv.com/summer-house

Ciara’s Cover Article with Harper’s Bazaar:

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/film-tv/a71420915/ciara-miller-summer-house-interview-2026/

Professor Miller's back to unpack Summer House Reunion Part 2. West and Amanda continuing to lower the bar, Dara with a read for the ages, and Meija's call blowing the whole thing open — let's get into it.

Plus — Taylor Swift + Toy Story 5, and yes, I think she's going for the Oscar.

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:

Summer House Reunion - Part 2:

https://www.bravotv.com/summer-house/season-10/episode-18/reunion-part-2
Dara’s Take on West:

https://www.tiktok.com/@bravotv/video/7646908845482183949

Taylor’s Song for Toy Story 5:

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

Professor Miller is in session. I took notes — actual notes — on the Summer House Reunion because Ciara came in ready and I was not about to let a single moment slide.

Plus — some Black News covering the Patrick Ta and Painted by Esther situation.

Saddle up!

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:

Summer House Reunion - Part 1:

https://www.bravotv.com/summer-house/season-10/episode-17/reunion-part-1

Patrick Ta and Painted by Esther Controversy:

https://www.tiktok.com/@amandachristine_1/video/7643672293280976142?_r=1&_t=ZT-96iDdz4jzAr

https://www.tiktok.com/@isittherightword/video/7643788602513624350?_r=1&_t=ZT-96iDeFWt1fp