More Than A Muse

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  The Horror of the Nice Guy: When Love Becomes Control 12.10.2026 35Min.

  The scariest men aren’t always the ones who look like monsters. Sometimes, they’re the ones who insist they’re nice. In this episode of More Than A Muse, Sadie and Stauney unpack how obsession, entitlement, and control disguise themselves as love in Obsession, Companion, and Don’t Worry Darling. From weaponized technology and AI girlfriends to incel culture and the male loneliness discourse, we explore what happens when men mistake admiration for ownership and a woman’s autonomy for something they have the right to control. Why does being “nice” so often come with strings attached? And what happens when a woman refuses to play the role someone else has written for her? We’re breaking down horror’s modern “nice guys” and the unsettling cultural realities hiding behind their fictional stories. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Who Gets to Survive? The Final Girl & How Horror Decides Which Women Live, Die, and Deserve It 05.10.2026 41Min.

  Who gets to survive the horror story? The Final Girl was never just the last woman standing—she reflected what society believed a “good” woman should be and what made her worthy of survival. In this episode of More Than A Muse, Stauney and Sadie trace the Final Girl's evolution from Laurie Strode and Sally Hardesty to Sidney Prescott, Erin, Grace Le Domas, and the complicated, angry, morally messy survivors of modern horror. Along the way, they unpack the rules women were once expected to follow to make it to the end: be observant, responsible, resourceful, and, perhaps most importantly, sexually restrained.But what happens when those rules start to change? From Halloween and Friday the 13th to A Nightmare on Elm Street, Scream, You’re Next, and Ready or Not, the Final Girl has evolved from the virtuous survivor into something much more complicated: a woman who can be angry, sexual, traumatized, flawed, violent, even monstrous—and still be the one we want to see survive. And ultimately, the question extends beyond horror. Because the stories we tell about women shape the women we believe, admire, protect, and encourage in real life. If horror has spent decades deciding which women deserve to live, what does that tell us about how we decide which women deserve to be believed? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  You Seem Pretty Sad for the Song of the Summer 28.09.2026 34Min.

  The pop girls are sad, the summer anthems are melancholy, and somehow we’ve all ended up in our feelings. Sadie and Stauney unpack the strange emotional shift happening in pop this year, from hints of Taylor Swift’s cryptic new era to the “song of the summer” debate, Olivia Rodrigo’s breakup album, Gracie Abrams’ Daughter from Hell, and the long-awaited return of Phoebe Bridgers.But beneath all the sad songs is a bigger question: why does pop feel so much more human right now? Is the melancholy just a summer mood, or is it a reaction to an increasingly polished, algorithm-driven, AI-filled music landscape? Sadie and Stauney get into why artists seem to be leaning into messier, more vulnerable music, and whether all of this sadness might actually be pointing to a bigger shift in pop.Basically, why does everything sound a little sadder right now? And are we entering a new era of pop? Probably. Maybe. We’ll see. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  ENCORE: Working 9 to 5: How a Women’s Movement Became a Pop Culture Phenomenon 07.09.2026 54Min.

  What happens when working women decide they have had enough?In this episode, we’re clocking in for a deep dive into 9 to 5, the beloved 1980 comedy starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton. More than just a hit movie, 9 to 5 was rooted in the real-life experiences of working women who organized in the 1960s and 1970s to fight for better working conditions, equal treatment, and a voice in the workplace.We explore the movement that inspired the film, including the women who organized through the 9to5 labor organization in Boston and Cleveland, and the Netflix documentary that tells their story. Then, we get into the making of the movie itself, from its journey to the big screen to Dolly Parton’s unforgettable film debut.And of course, we have to talk about that song. Dolly’s “9 to 5” became an instant classic, earning her a Grammy and becoming one of the most recognizable songs about working life ever recorded.From real-life workplace activism to one of Hollywood’s most iconic feminist comedies, we’re looking at how 9 to 5 captured the frustrations of working women, turned them into a cultural phenomenon, and helped change the conversation around women in the workplace. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Daisy Chain Fields Is Bringing Back Lilith Fair 31.08.2026 35Min.

  Women didn’t just take the stage at Lilith Fair; they changed who the music industry believed belonged there. Stauney and Sadie dive into the festival that pushed back against the “one woman per bill” mentality, became a massive commercial success, raised millions for women’s charities, and still exposed some of the complicated contradictions of feminism in the ’90s. From Sarah McLachlan’s unlikely idea to the meaning behind the name Lilith, this is the story of what happens when women stop waiting for the industry to make room and instead build their own stage.And nearly 30 years later, that blueprint is still alive. Olivia Rodrigo’s Daisy Chain Fields brought the same spirit into a new era: pairing an all-women-forward lineup with nonprofits, women-owned vendors, surprise legends, and a whole lot of joy. Stauney and Sadie explore the connection between these two festivals and ask a bigger question: What happens when activism doesn’t have to be angry, inaccessible, or serious all the time — but can be wildly successful, beautifully branded, and actually fun? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  A Little Bit of Everything: Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, and more. 27.04.2026 38Min.

  In this episode, Sadie and Stauney cover a mix of current and nostalgic pop culture moments. They start with Olivia Rodrigo’s new song, then get into Coachella again, comparing Lana Del Rey’s minimal performance style with the expectations placed on artists like Justin Bieber. They also revisit Janet. by Janet Jackson and Homecoming by Beyoncé, talking through their cultural impact. A look back at The Devil Wears Prada leads into a conversation about how women are portrayed in media and how that’s changed over time. They wrap up by zooming out to broader cultural trends and what they reveal about how audiences think, respond, and evolve. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Coachella: Same Stage, Different Standards 22.04.2026 44Min.

  In this episode, Sadie and Stauney trace its evolution from Pearl Jam’s anti-Ticketmaster rebellion to the glittering, influencer-filled spectacle it is today. Along the way, they unpack the performances that defined the desert stage—from Beyonce's boundary-pushing performance to the wildly different energies of Sabrina Carpenter and Justin Bieber.We also discuss why some performances feel effortless while others are picked apart, and try to answer the question of whether or not we are holding women to a higher standard on one of the biggest stages in the world. From iconic moments to uncomfortable questions, this episode breaks down the festival that somehow manages to be both a launchpad and a microscope for modern pop culture. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Can We Separate Art from the Artist? 13.04.2026 48Min.

  In this episode, Sadie and Stauney explore the moral dilemma of loving art created by deeply flawed or even abusive individuals, asking whether it’s truly possible—or ethical—to separate the art from the artist. Drawing on insights from Claire Dederer’s Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma, they unpack how fandom, overconsumption, and social media intensify our emotional ties to creators, often blurring the line between admiration and complicity. The conversation challenges simplistic ideas of guilt, innocence, and “canceling,” while examining how gender biases, cultural myths like the “suffering artist,” and systems of wealth and power shape who gets forgiven and who doesn’t. Ultimately, the episode invites listeners to confront their own values and boundaries, offering a nuanced, honest look at the contradictions of modern fandom and the personal ethics behind what—and who—we choose to support. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Montana, Monica, and Morissette 30.03.2026 37Min.

  In this episode, Stauney and Sadie dive into the cultural aftershocks of the Clinton–Lewinsky scandal and the raw, cathartic power of Alanis Morissette’s iconic album Jagged Little Pill—two moments that helped define how the ’90s talked about women, anger, and public shame. From the media treatment of Monica Lewinsky to the way Morissette turned heartbreak into one of the most influential revenge albums of all time, we unpack how scandal, rage, and storytelling collide in pop culture. Along the way, we also revisit the surprisingly scrappy reality behind Hannah Montana’s reunion moment and the enduring mystery of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art heist—the $500 million robbery that still hasn’t been solved—connecting it all through nostalgia, fame, and the stories that continue to shape how women are remembered. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  From Tabloids to TikToks 25.03.2026 51Min.

  In this episode, Sadie and Stauney dissect the dark side of TikTok’s impact: the pile-ons, echo chambers, and the skewed justice that often leaves public figures, especially women, unfairly villainized. They break down iconic cases like Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard, Olivia Rodrigo vs. Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Baldoni vs. Blake Lively, and the notorious beef between Hailey Bieber and Selena Gomez: revealing how these digital outrage cycles distort perception and escalate drama to destructive levels. Tune in for a candid look at the viral age’s moral maze and learn practical ways to stay critical in a sea of sensationalism. The truth is more complex than the clips. Are we willing to see it? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Scandal Double Standards: The Unequal Price of Public Spectacles 16.03.2026 54Min.

  In this episode, we unpack the cultural spectacle of the female celebrity scandal and ask why women are so often judged differently when the spotlight turns harsh. From Janet Jackson’s infamous Super Bowl “wardrobe malfunction” to Winona Ryder’s highly publicized shoplifting arrest, we revisit some of the most talked-about media controversies of the past few decades. Looking beyond the headlines, we examine how gendered expectations, tabloid culture, and public morality shape the narratives around these moments. Why do certain incidents become career-defining scandals for women, while men often escape with less scrutiny? Join us as we explore the double standards, media frenzy, and cultural fallout behind the scandals that captured the world’s attention. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  The Paparazzi Machine: How the Media Hunts, Breaks and Profits from Women 09.03.2026 55Min.

  In this episode, we delve into the dark world of paparazzi culture and its devastating impact on celebrities like Princess Diana, Britney Spears, Amy Winehouse, and Kristen Stewart. From the origins in 1950s Rome to today's digital age, we explore how relentless photographers invade private moments, turning personal struggles into public spectacles. The tragic death of Princess Diana in a paparazzi-fueled car chase highlights the deadly stakes, while Britney Spears' breakdown and Amy Winehouse’s decline reveal the toxic cycle of public shaming. We discuss how societal obsession morphs into moral panic, shaming women for their appearance and behavior, and how social media intensifies these dynamics. This episode raises urgent questions about consent, privacy, and moral judgment, offering insights into how we can choose empathy over exploitation. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Trial By Talk Show: When Women are Prosecuted on Live Television 03.03.2026 50Min.

  This episode, Stauney and Sadie, dive into the way the media has shaped and often distorted the stories of women in the public eye. We revisit unforgettable talk show moments with Monica Lewinsky, Whitney Houston, Tonya Harding, and Meghan Markle to look at what was really happening beneath the surface. Who controlled the narrative? Who was allowed to be messy, emotional, or complicated, and who was punished for it? From studio audiences to national headlines, we unpack how media framing, cultural expectations, and gender bias influenced the way these women were seen and judged in real time. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  The Wuthering Heights Discourse 23.02.2026 56Min.

  Welcome to our new monthly segment, "Cultural Canon," where we explore culturally significant movies and albums. This episode features a deep dive into the latest controversial film, "Wuthering Heights," and the iconic album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill." The hosts also discuss the cultural impact of Britney Spears' recent music catalog sale, the resurgence of millennial icons in literature, and the nuances of adapting classic literature into film. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  Who Gets to Be Roxie Hart? Stunt Casting in Chicago 16.02.2026 47Min.

  In this episode, Stauney and Sadie explore the concept of stunt casting in theater, focusing in particular on the recent casting of Whitney Leavitt in Chicago. The conversation delves into the implications of using celebrities in theater, the history of stunt casting, and its impact on ticket sales and audience engagement. We discuss the ethical considerations surrounding stunt casting, the balance between art and commerce, and the future of theater in a changing landscape. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  A Cinderella Story: Every Era’s Favorite Fairytale 09.02.2026 50Min.

  In this episode, we unpack why Cinderella’s core elements—hidden labor, transformation, and escaping unjust systems—resonate across cultures and eras. You’ll learn about the original Greek tale, the Chinese ‘Ye Shen’ story with the magical fish, and how Charles Perrault’s version introduced iconic features like the glass slipper, fairy godmother, and pumpkin carriage. We explore how each adaptation—Disney classics, modern reimaginings, and TV favorites like Bridgerton—keeps that hope alive, while subtly revealing changing societal values. Join us to explore how these stories shape identity, reinforce cultural ideals, and why, even after centuries, Cinderella’s message of endurance and transformation still feels so relevant today. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  TikTok is Going Analog (and so are we!) 02.02.2026 46Min.

  In this episode, Sadie and Stauney explore the rising trend of analog hobbies that offer comfort and authenticity in a digital world. They delve into crafting, journaling, baking, and slow hobbies as antidotes to digital overload, sharing how these practices can be effortlessly incorporated into daily life. Discover the origins of scrapbooking and the brilliance of modern "junk journaling" for preserving memories, and learn why slow hobbies like sourdough baking or knitting provide a meditative escape from global chaos. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  The Woman Who Built a Masterpiece: Isabella Stewart Gardner 10.11.2025 39Min.

  In this episode, Stauney and Sadie step inside the world of Isabella Stewart Gardner, the eccentric American collector who refused to play by Boston’s rules and built a museum that doubled as her personal artistic manifesto. They unpack Isabella’s life as a patron and tastemaker, her bold curatorial choices, and the unconventional vision behind Fenway Court—a Venetian-inspired home filled with masterpieces, orchids, and her own unapologetic flair. The conversation then turns to one of the most infamous art heists in history. With empty frames still hanging on the walls as Isabella demanded, the Gardner Museum stands as both a tribute to her legacy and a reminder of the thirteen stolen works that have never been recovered. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  The Scandalous Muse of Vienna: Alma Mahler 03.11.2025 41Min.

  This week, Stauney and Sadie delve into the life of Alma Mahler—composer, muse, and one of the most controversial women of early 20th-century Vienna. We explore how her relationships with towering figures like Gustav Mahler, Oskar Kokoschka, Walter Gropius, and Franz Werfel intertwined art, love, and obsession in ways that shaped her creative identity and public legacy. Beyond her reputation as a muse to geniuses, Alma’s own musical compositions reveal a woman striving to define herself within the confines of a male-dominated world. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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  The Witch Hunt of Women in Music: From Coven to Beyoncé 29.10.2025 42Min.

  In this episode of More Than A Muse, hosts Stauney and Sadie explore the fascinating intersection of witchcraft and pop culture, particularly in the music industry. They discuss various musicians who have been accused of witchcraft, including historical bands like Coven and contemporary artists like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga. The conversation delves into themes of hysteria, feminism, and the cultural beliefs surrounding witchcraft today. The hosts also reflect on the nature of creativity and how it can be perceived as otherworldly, linking it to the idea of witchcraft. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.