Session 99: Megan Moroney

Summary

Podcast Summary
Therapuss with Jake Shane
Session 99: Megan Moroney
October 10, 2025

Overview
In this special birthday episode, host Jake Shane sits down with country music rising star and close friend Megan Moroney for a candid, hilarious, and deeply personal conversation. They discuss Megan’s meteoric rise in the country scene, her songwriting process, the impact of success on her mental health, and the stories behind her most beloved tracks. The episode closes, as always, with audience-submitted problems in the “Tell Me What’s Wrong” segment, where Megan brings her signature wit and honesty to listener dilemmas.

Main Themes

• The transition from college to stardom: Megan’s early struggles, her viral hit "Tennessee Orange," and the realities of her rapid success
• The role of songwriting as therapy and the deeply personal inspiration behind her music
• The experience of touring and performing live, fan reactions, and life on the road
• Navigating mental health, criticism, and online discourse as a young artist
• The value of close friendships, supportive community, and overcoming bullying
• Teasers for new music and evolving her sound

Detailed Breakdown & Key Moments

Megan’s Tour Life & Musical Favorites

• The episode opens with Jake wishing Megan a happy birthday and recounting his experience at her recent “Am I Okay?” tour show, noting, “Megan just had the crowd in the palm of her hands…She is such a star and all of her music slaps.”
  [01:20]
• Megan shares tour updates: “42 shows down, so it’s been amazing. I feel like it’s been the best time in life on tour…insane.” [03:09]
• Favorite live performances: Megan loves the dramatic segue of “Break It Right Back” into “Bless Your Heart,” saying, “I end Break It Right Back on the floor—like, the drama! And then I stand up and we sing ‘Bless Your Heart’ together.” [03:42]

Songwriting as Self-Therapy

• Megan explains that “Bless Your Heart” was written to be empowering but accessible, especially for those experiencing bullying:
  “I wanted…that was like a topic I didn’t touch on [before]—anti-bullying. That’s what that song is written for…what can we say that’s not like ‘f--- you’ but a middle schooler can sing?” [04:06]
• Discussing “Girl in the Mirror,” Megan confesses, “The first time I performed it, I cried… because you’re admitting to people that at one point you cared about them and their happiness more than yourself...Now I sing it with confidence, and it’s empowering.” [14:14]
• On letting go after songwriting: “Writing for me is so therapeutic…If I didn’t have somewhere to put those feelings, they would just be festering.” [12:50]

On Finding Her Voice, Influences, and Fame

• Megan shares how heartbreak fueled her creativity:
  “My dad gifted me a guitar after my first breakup because I wouldn’t stop crying… That made me actually learn guitar.” [05:50]
• She reveals first learning “Strawberry Wine” by Deana Carter at 17, and credits Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert as major songwriting influences:
  “Kacey was the first [artist] that made me want to write my own music…How does she put those feelings into words, and it rhymes, and it’s clever?” [07:55 – 08:08]
• Megan describes her journey from college covers to moving to Nashville and struggling to be taken seriously:
  “Girls in my sorority were not nice about it… But now they text me and say ‘We always believed in you.’” [16:33 – 17:01]

Viral Hits and the Anatomy of a Modern Country Song

• “Tennessee Orange” was inspired by Megan wearing a rival team shirt, thinking, “If my mom saw me in this shirt, she would kill me.” The song’s relatability surprised her:
  “I thought it would be very [niche]—only Georgia and Tennessee people… But [fans] cared about the part that was like, ‘He feels like home.’” [22:34 & 46:46]
• On songwriting inspiration: Megan sometimes dreams song ideas, as with “Hair Salon,” and collaborates with Nashville writers.
  “I had a dream an ex got engaged…Three chairs down they’re talking about it, and I’m just looking out the window trying not to cry.” [20:25]

Dealing With Pressure, Mental Health, and Haters

• Megan addresses online discourse and the toll of public scrutiny:
  “I think I’ve had so much said about me now that I’m pretty numb to it… I put more weight into the people that love me and my music than the ones commenting hate.” [33:16 – 34:32]
• Support from industry friends: Megan recounts Kenny Chesney, her mentor, comforting her:
  “He came over and hyped me up…You were letting these people eat your lunch. None of that matters. What matters is my songwriting, my fans, and my path.” [36:25]

Personal Life, Friendships, Growth

• The importance of honest, non-competitive, decade-long female friendships, especially with her best friend Natalie:
  “In our 10 years of friendship, almost, Natalie and I have never been in a fight…We respect each other so much.” [41:33 – 62:11]
• On setting boundaries and learning to “stand on business”:
  “Now, at a hint of disrespect, I’m out. In my past relationships, I’d stick around and forgive. Not anymore.” [15:56]
• Saturn Return & personal growth:
  “In the past year, I’ve gotten so much more confident in myself…I don’t allow people to treat me like shit.” [32:22]

Music, Creativity, and Next Steps

• Megan teases the upcoming album as her most daring and genre-blending work yet:
  “My feet are so planted and I know exactly who I am. I’m willing to take risks now… Before, it was ‘this is who I am, but now—yep, this is me.’” [52:13]
  “Some songs could definitely get played on pop radio…It’s straight up country pop.” [52:33]
• The upcoming live album was inspired by wanting to capture the energy of the “Am I Okay?” era for fans:
  “I call the tour group therapy—so many different kinds of songs, it's an experience. Before this era ends, I have to get the whole thing recorded.” [49:03 – 50:46]

Hilarious Tangents & Pop Culture Moments

• A spirited debate on Sun Chips vs. Utz chips and favorite snacks on tour; Megan’s “messy, not dirty” lifestyle. [25:07 – 28:19]
• Wild sleep habits, Ubers, oversharing, and the perils of living with roommates. [76:07]
• A running joke about Jake not knowing Southern fast food (“You didn’t know what a chicken mini is—It’s the backbone of my happiness.” [05:10]) and confusion between venues, birthdays, and cults. [73:31]

Listener Q&A: “Tell Me What’s Wrong”
Jake and Megan respond to fan submissions with compassion, humor, and authenticity. Key queries include:

• Boyfriends forgetting anniversaries: “If you’ve talked to him and he refuses, that’s a problem…That’s not your person because he doesn’t care.” [57:21 – 58:47]
• Inappropriate family dynamics, being excluded from a friend group, and classic friendship woes.
• Advice for breakups, exploring romantic curiosity, and dealing with post-relationship what-ifs:
  “Every single time I get my heart so broken. But you move on…I think I’m an emotional person, though.” [64:14 – 65:04]
• On real friends: “Wonder [my song] can be applied to all relationships, not just romantic—real friends wouldn’t make you wonder.” [62:31]
• On cults, pyramid schemes, and the wildest listener confession—giving a friend gonorrhea via pee (!):
  “Pay for her gonorrhea meds. Apologize. Flowers. Maybe distance…” [75:02 – 76:02]
• Overall, Megan’s warmth, straight-talk, and humor shine in these segments.

Notable Quotes

• On music as therapy: “Writing for me is so therapeutic… If I didn’t have somewhere to put those feelings, they would just be festering.” (Megan, 12:50)
• On not letting hate define her: “Now, this is the first year I’ve actually been able to be like, yeah, fudge the haters.” (Megan, 34:32)
• On self-worth: “Now, at a hint of disrespect, I’m out.” (Megan, 15:56)
• Friendship wisdom: “In our 10 years of friendship, almost, Natalie and I have never been in a fight…We respect each other so much.” (Megan, 41:33 & 62:11)
• On taking risks with new music: “Before, it was like, this is who I am, but now—yep, this is me.” (Megan, 52:13)

Memorable Moments

• Jake’s off-key but hilarious “Happy Birthday” serenade for Megan. [00:10]
• Megan’s admissions about “messy, not dirty” living and her snack obsessions. [25:07 & 26:56]
• “If you’re not standing on business, like, I used to let things slide…but now, a hint of disrespect, I’m out.” [15:56]
• “We call him community boyfriend… On Valentine’s Day, he’ll show up with balloons and chocolate just because he knows we don’t have boyfriends.” (On her best friend’s fiancé, Alex) [46:01]
• The running gag about Megan’s live shows being like a (friendly) cult: “We look like a cult in the house.” [79:25]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 03:09 — Tour stories and highlights
• 04:06 — Inspiration behind “Bless Your Heart” and anti-bullying
• 08:08 — Songwriting idols and early influences
• 14:14 — “Girl in the Mirror” and transformative power of songs
• 20:25 — “Hair Salon” writing process and the role of dreams
• 22:34, 46:46 — Story behind “Tennessee Orange”
• 32:22 — Saturn return, confidence, and setting boundaries
• 34:32 — Coping with public criticism, advice from Kenny Chesney
• 41:33, 62:11 — Friendship with Natalie, how true friendship works
• 49:03 — Upcoming live album, group therapy tour
• 52:13 — Evolution of Megan’s music for next album
• 57:21 — Audience Q&A begins: relationship issues, advice
• 75:02 — The wildest listener confession (bed-peeing, gonorrhea)

Final Notes
This episode of Therapuss stands out as both an intimate portrait of an emerging artist and a rollicking good time between two close friends. Megan’s vulnerability, wit, and honesty make for a masterclass in pop-country storytelling and self-acceptance. Fans of her music—and anyone wrestling with heartbreak, ambition, or friendship—will feel seen and uplifted.

The “Tell Me What’s Wrong” Q&A rounds out the episode with plenty of laughs, wisdom, and, above all, the reminder that you’re never alone—no matter how strange your problems may be.

Essential for fans and new listeners alike, this episode proves why Megan Moroney’s star keeps rising and why Jake Shane’s Therapuss is a safe space for quirks, chaos, and catharsis.

Transcript

[A]

Hi. Welcome back to therapist. I know we are doing a third. First of all, I need to dress up more for this. I know we are doing a Thursday release which we don't normally do, but we are doing that because it is Megan Maroney's birthday and she is also the guest tonight. So I thought it would be really fun to drop the episode on her birthday with it being so close. Happy birthday to you, Meghan. Love you. So in Meghan's honor, I'm going to sing Happy Birthday to her. Happy birthday to. Wait, I'm going to try to sound good. Hold on. Just because she's a singer, you know? Okay. Oh, no, that was off tune. Happy birthday to you Happy birthday Happy birthday to you Wait, no, I know that isn't good. Happy birthday to you Happy birthday to you Happy birthday, dear Megan Happy birthday to you thank you. Megan Maroney is a dear friend and a superstar when it comes to country music and just music in general. She's literally incredible. Her sophomore album, am I okay? Came out last year. She is currently on the MI okay tour, which I was so lucky to be able to see last week. It was life changing. I love when I go to a concert and their audience is just so engaged. They're, like, hanging on her every word and. And, like, Megan just had the crowd in the palm of her hands. It was so amazing. I just kept looking up there being like, she is such a star and, like, all of her music slaps. But if you are not able to see her live, do not worry. Her live album, Megan Maroney. Am I okay? Tour is out now. Oh, there's just something like, I. E. Cornelia Street Live. Like, it just, like, it makes you really feel like you're in the room with the artist. And I think it's so cool. Um, so, Megan, congratulations and happy birthday, and I'm so excited for you guys to hear this episode. To submit Tell me what's Wrong, go to passthatpost.com and click Tell me what's wrong. Leave a name and number if you're feeling fancy. Okay. Enjoy the episode. Love you, pussies. Hi, pussies. Welcome back to therapuss. Today we have on a dear friend and country superstar, Megan Maroney.

[B]

Oh, hey. Hey.

[A]

I miss you.

[B]

How are you? I'm great. I love that we're matching.

[A]

I know. We are matching.

[B]

This made my day already.

[A]

And you know, I never wear sweats that are like. Like. What would you call this?

[B]

Bootleg, perhaps?

[A]

This is bootleg.

[B]

Straight leg. Straight leg.

[A]

Straight leg. But I never wear it. And I did it for you. Not that it's, like, really, like, upended my day or anything, but, like, thank you so much. How's tour?

[B]

Great. I mean, we've got, what, eight shows left out of. I've done. There's gonna be 50 total, so math is hard. 42 shows down, so it's been amazing. I feel like it's been, like, the best time in life on tour. It's just. It's insane. I'm so glad you get to come because you'll get to, like, see it. I feel like I say all the time, like, oh, it's so special. And it's crazy. It's amazing. I've never had this happen before, but until you, like, see it, then you're.

[A]

Like, oh, I cannot wait. What do you. What's your favorite song to perform on the. In the show?

[B]

I think Break it right back straight into Bless yous Heart really does something for me. Like, I. I end Break it right back on the floor, like, the drama.

[A]

The drama of it.

[B]

And then I stand up and we sing Bless your heart together.

[A]

And it's just like, I love Bless your heart. Thanks. Did you write? Because I remember you being like, what's your writing process? And you're like, you write it all at home at first, and then you bring it to a studio.

[B]

Yeah. So like, I wrote Bless your heart on a writer's trip. So that was just like. We went out to the East Tennessee mountains, and we just, like, brought guitars and sat around and talked about stuff. And that was a part of my deluxe album. So I wanted. That was, like, a topic I didn't touch on. On Am I okay? Was like, you know, anti bullying. And that's what that song is written for. So we were talking about just how, like, my co writer, Jesse Alexander, had, like, a middle schooler, and I was like, what can we say that's not like, fuck you, but a middle schooler can sing and feel better when they're being bullied. And I was like, oh, bless your heart.

[A]

Bless your heart is great. But I was also listening to I'm Not Pretty Today. And then that's also touches on the bullying.

[B]

Yep. That is. Wait, did you say the bullying of it all?

[A]

Yes. Right. Like, that. Isn't that what. It's.

[B]

The bullying of it?

[A]

Like, isn't that what it's about? It's.

[B]

No, it is. That actually happened, though. If you go to my Instagram, I say, did you mean to double tap that spring break throwback from 2016 and PCB.

[A]

PCB? What is PCB?

[B]

Panama City Beach.

[A]

Got it.

[B]

Also, to sidetrack, you didn't know what a chicken mini is.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

It's the backbone of my happiness.

[A]

What is a chicken meaning mini? What is that?

[B]

It's Chick Fil A's best breakfast item.

[A]

Is that when I FaceTimed you after we went out in Nashville and you were eating that.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Miniature breakfast sandwich.

[B]

It's. Yes. It's like a little chicken biscuit.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Soaked in butter.

[A]

Have you had a chicken Many.

[B]

Louise, Obviously, he didn't even know what it was. I said, I. I just ate some chicken minis, and he's like, a what? And I was.

[A]

She was appalled.

[B]

I was offended to my.

[A]

To bring it all back. You started singing when you were injured in cheerleading, Right. And then your dad gifted you a guitar?

[B]

Yeah, so my dad gifted me a guitar after my first breakup because I wouldn't stop crying. So he took me to guitar Center. My mom was pulling out all the stops. She's like that. The first time I was allowed to dye my hair blonde was because of a breakup. I wouldn't stop crying.

[A]

You're not naturally blonde. No, wait, your hair looks naturally blonde.

[B]

You're so sweet for saying you don't have roots. Yes, I do. They're tasteful roots.

[A]

Oh, okay.

[B]

But they're definitely there. And I would say my hair is, like, not. I'm not naturally, like, a brunette. It's, like, more dirty blonde. But, yeah, definitely not. Not a natural, very blonde girl. But, yeah, My mom let me dye my hair, and my dad bought me a guitar, so.

[A]

And then how long until. When you taught yourself how to play guitar?

[B]

It was about that time. Yeah. Like you said, I hurt my knee when I was, like, 17, and I had to get surgery, and that made me have to be in a wheelchair for, like, two and a half months. And so when I was just sitting around doing nothing, I was like, okay, I'll finally try to learn guitar. Because my dad would try to teach. Like, he tried to teach me how to play guitar since I was, like, 12, but I would never, like, stick to it because my fingers would hurt. Or, like, I would just get easily distracted by something else. But when I got hurt, I was like, well, I got nothing else to do.

[A]

What was the first song you taught yourself how to play?

[B]

Strawberry Wine. Do you know that one? Really? It's my go to karaoke song.

[A]

So who's it by?

[B]

Dina Carter. Strawberry wine. 17.

[A]

Sometimes I forget when I have a singer on the show. And they start singing. I'm like, oh, I forget.

[B]

Surely you've heard the song.

[A]

Surely.

[B]

No, surely, like, if you heard I.

[A]

Really, the issue with me and country music is I, I. It's all great. I only listen to women in country, so I listen to you. I listen to Casey.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

I listen to you, and I listen to Casey, and I listen to, like. Like, I listen to old Dolly Parton sometimes. I listen to, like, Miranda Lambert. Like, who were your some. Who were some of your country icons?

[B]

Miranda and Casey, I think Taylor, too, obviously. Like, I grew up on her music, but Casey was the first artist that made me want to, like, write my own music.

[A]

Do you remember the first song you wrote?

[B]

Yeah, it was called Stay a Memory. It was a fuck you song. Imagine that. Stay a Memory and Don't Come Back was, like, the hook. But, yeah, I listened to the same trailer, different park for the first time, and I was like, she is so clever, and so, like, how does she put those feelings into words? And then it rhymes, and it's so clever and funny. And that's when I was like, I'm gonna try to write a song.

[A]

It's actually funny you say that, because I was listening to Mary go round the other day, and then I was listening to your stuff, and they reminded me of each other with, like, the wittiness.

[B]

Thank you. That's a compliment. Yeah, it was really cool because, like, I grew up loving Casey Musgrave so much, and I even, like, waited outside of her bus at a show in Alabama, and I got to meet her, and then we shared a dressing room at the CMA Awards last year.

[A]

Do you tell her, like, I literally waited outside your bus.

[B]

Oh, she know. When I met her, too. I wasn't expecting, like, because it's, like, she was performing, and, like, award shows are just stressful. Like, I wasn't even expecting her to, like, take the time to take a picture with me or anything because, like, the CMA's put us together. Like, she could have been like, girl, yeah. Like, remember when you stalked me outside of my bus? Now I have to share a dressing room with this girl. But she was, like, so kind and sweet and was like, thanks for all the nice things you always say about me and took the time to, like, get pictures. It was just really sweet, and I just love her.

[A]

Yeah. She's everything. Yeah. Do you listen to Deeper?

[B]

Well, yes.

[A]

I love Architect. So good.

[B]

So good.

[A]

Witty song.

[B]

Witty song. Yeah, it's one of those things where it's like. It's. She has so many songs where I'm like, oh, I wish I wrote that.

[A]

Do you? What. What song are you, like, most proud of in your discography with your wordplay?

[B]

Wordplay. I really love the bridge. Where else? Where I say, I'll see you next Tuesday at the bar. I love that because it's just funny to me. I'd explained to my parents what that was and why. That was clever.

[A]

You're like, it's cunt.

[B]

I'm calling them a cunt. So that. But then also my song, sleep on My side, I listen to that today. I sleep on my side and you sleep with everyone. I'm like, I did that?

[A]

Yeah, I did that. Have you started writing your new album?

[B]

Oh, yeah. It's done being written and I'm listening to mixes now. So that's all I listen to right now is myself. And then I go and I play a show and it's more of myself.

[A]

I'm like, Yay, October 9th. Right. That's when your live album.

[B]

The live album comes out. October 9th.

[A]

Right by my birthday.

[B]

Oh, my gosh. When's your birthday?

[A]

27Th. You're the ninth, right?

[B]

Okay. I love that for us.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So maybe our little trip is our birthday trip.

[A]

I invited myself on vacation, by the way, just so everybody knows.

[B]

And I was going to invite Jake anyways. But, yeah, it's perfect that you were like, I'm coming. Because I was like, great. I was going to invite you.

[A]

I'm really excited for that vacation we are going to have.

[B]

We're going to swim with sharks. Who?

[A]

Okay.

[B]

We're going to down some tequila sodas.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Health and wellness.

[A]

Just get drunk for five days straight.

[B]

Literally.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I don't know. These next songs I like. Usually I'm one to, like, tease the crap out of them. Like, I'm like, there's this one and this one and this one. And I'm just like. I can't give away too much yet because I'm. I'm, like, the most proud of this next album of all of my.

[A]

So from what I've heard, from what you've played me so good. I mean, you know when you played me blank, I can't. But, like, she played me this one song and I listened to it every single. It's amazing.

[B]

Thanks. Yeah, I'm obsessed with that one. I feel like that one really is like, bar for bar. I didn't. I told no lies. I feel like writing for me is so therapeutic because, like, I can write that song and now it's, like, done you know, like, I have nothing else to feel in that situation because I wrote it. And now that's a song that was, like, you know, lived inside me, and now it's like, that's for everyone else to enjoy.

[A]

Now, do you usually write your songs in, like, one session, or do you, like. Did that song take? Like, what are you. Like, you're.

[B]

Oh, yeah, that song was, like, 30 minutes.

[A]

Why?

[B]

Because it was like, we're gonna say exactly what happened. I mean, it takes you through exactly. And it, like. I love that it touches on all the points because it's like, oh, well, she should have known. And it's like, yeah, well, if he did this, then you wouldn't have known either.

[A]

Right?

[B]

So it's all the. I feel like it just checks all of the boxes, and I'm. I love that one. And I'm glad I sent it to you, because now you can crash out whenever you want.

[A]

I do all the time. Also, like, do you feel like writing music helps you not live in the past because you can let it go 100%? Yeah.

[B]

It's like, I feel so grateful to even, like, have, like, the gift of songwriting, because I'm like, if I didn't have somewhere to put those feelings, they would just be, like, festering. Yes.

[A]

And.

[B]

And it truly is like, I felt like after I wrote. I almost said the title after I wrote that song that we're talking about. Like, I never wrote another song about that situation again because it's like, I said what I need to say.

[A]

Right.

[B]

And now some people are going to relate to it, and that can be something that we all share together now. But I don't, like, feel it anymore, like, in me, you know?

[A]

Do you believe that when you perform a song that was black. I know.

[B]

I don't know why I said it like that, but it's like, that's so strange.

[A]

Well, literally, do you believe, though, that, like, oh, God, when you release a song, like, it's not yours anymore, it's everybody else's? So, like, the mean. You would dis. You don't attach meaning to it any. Like, you would. Yeah, because I. I forget what show I was at the other day. Who was it? Was it Gaga? I think it was Lady Gaga. Was it Lady Gaga?

[B]

I don't know what you're about to say.

[A]

Okay, well, somebody. I was at a show, and somebody was like, I wrote this song, and now it's like, so not about me. It's like, I, like, don't even feel what this. What. When I Wrote this. Like, I don't even feel what I was feeling when I wrote it. It's about, like, everybody else. Like, this song is for everybody now.

[B]

100. I have a song called Girl in the Mirror that's like, that for me. I literally. The hook is like, I love the boy more than I love the girl in the mirror. And when I wrote that, it was like, something that I needed to be. Like, I needed to remind myself, right? Because I knew it was true. But it's like, once you write it down and you have to sing it, you're like, oh. Like, the first time I performed it, I cried and I was like, what? Like, I tried to get myself to stop crying and I couldn't. And I was like, holy. And it's just because, like, you're admitting to people that, like, at one point you cared about them and their happiness way more than yourself. And that's like, really, like, damn. Like, how did I let myself get that way when I'm, you know, I grew up so confident and bubbly and stuff. And so that song now, though, because now I would rather, like, die than shrink myself for a man. It's more so, like, there's so much strength in it because these girls that I see sobbing to it, like, I'm up there singing it with confidence, and it's empowering because I'm like, I don't feel this way anymore. And I know you feel this way right now, but, like, one day, if you choose yourself, like, you're not going to be in that situation.

[A]

So at what age did you think you're like, okay, like, I choose myself.

[B]

Like, six months ago.

[A]

Are you serious?

[B]

No. But, like, there's, like, I would say, like, this year is the first year I've really stood on business.

[A]

You always stand on business.

[B]

That's not true.

[A]

That is true.

[B]

I wrote a song called I know you. Have you heard that on Am I okay?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

That is like, the long distance situationship. Like, him and I just, like, couldn't get away from each other. And, like, I was not standing on business. But, like, now I'm like, at, like, a hint of disrespect, I'm like, I'm out.

[A]

What is like, a hint of disrespect for you?

[B]

Just, like, the second I feel that I'm not being treated the way I deserve, whether it's like, I find out there's, like, you're lying a little bit or just, like, not showing up for me in the way that I'm showing up for them. Or whatever. It is just like, any sort of, like, things that feel off where in my past relationships, I've, like, stuck around and forgave them and heard them out. I'm like, no, you wait.

[A]

But I did. I did want to talk about. Because when we got dinner in Nashville, we talked about. You're like, you went to Georgia, and you started by, like, posting covers online with your family. Right. And girls in your sorority were not nice about it.

[B]

Yeah. Not very supportive. No. I mean, there was. There was a few, for sure, but for the most part, it was like, oh, this girl, like, thinks she's gonna be a country singer. She's like. Because I. To be. I was playing for tips, like, at a restaurant. So, like, I get it.

[A]

No, I think that's how a lot of people start out.

[B]

Yeah. I get people doubting, though. You know, I'm like, okay, that's fair, right? But, yeah, it was. They weren't very nice.

[A]

And then.

[B]

And now they, like, text me and they're like, oh, my God, we always believed in you. And I'm like, yeah, okay.

[A]

No, you didn't.

[B]

Thanks.

[A]

And do you. So. But you started, though, because you had to. You performed at. Was it a sorority event?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And Chase Rice was in the audience. What was that like? And what did you sing?

[B]

So at the time, I wasn't writing my own song, so I sang Merry Go Round, Mama's Broken Heart, and probably, like, Wide Open Spaces or something. And I opened for John Langston because we didn't have money to pay an opener because we spent all of our money on hin. So I did it for free. And then Chase was there, and he was like, you know, like, I really like your voice. Why don't you come open for me at the Georgia Theater next month? Like, first of three. I'm not going to pay you. But still a cool opportunity, which I was like, don't. I'll pay you.

[A]

Yeah, yeah.

[B]

And he was like, the only thing is, is, like, you only played covers today, and I want you to play an original song. Like, I don't want you to just do covers. So if you play an original, like, you can open for me. And so I wrote my first song.

[A]

Which was Stay in Memory. Same memory. So have you ever seen Star is Born?

[B]

Yes.

[A]

So that's you.

[B]

That's a little bit.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

I love that movie.

[A]

And then when did you. Then after you wrote Stay in Memory, like, did you just keep writing? Keep writing and keep writing.

[B]

Yeah. So after that show, I really wanted to move to Nashville. Because Chase was like, just drop out of school. You don't need your degree. Like, musicians, like, if you're going to make it, you need to be in Nashville. So I told my parents, I was like, chase, that I should just move to Nashville and I don't need to get my degree. And my parents were like, sweetheart, yeah, that's not going to happen.

[A]

And you stayed in school.

[B]

So I stayed in school. But once I, like, once I performed for the first time, and I actually heard the audience sing Strawberry Wine back to me, which, like, wasn't even a song that I wrote, but it was just, like, so rewarding to hear, like, a room full of people all come together and, like, scream words to a song we all love. That's when I, like, got the bug for it. And I was like, I got to figure out how I'm going to move to Nashville. So I kind of just prepared myself to move to Nashville. So I. I was an accounting major, and I switched from accounting to, like, marketing and digital marketing. And then I, you know, got in the music business program at Georgia to try to, like, learn everything I could. And then I graduated in 2020. Over Zoom.

[A]

No.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

In that. Were you in Nashville at the time?

[B]

Yeah, I had already moved. I was like, as soon as I found out, like, we weren't going back to school, I was like, okay, well, I'm going to Nashville.

[A]

And then what song do you feel as though you were like, okay, this is my full time job, and I can, like, this is going to be my full time job.

[B]

I think it was hair salon, like, because I was having, like, writers that I really look up to. Like, Luke Laird is one of them who I worked on this last album with or the next one with a lot. And he, like, reached out and complimented the song, and I was like. So I think, like, that was the song where, like, writers that I really looked up to in Nashville started to, like, be like, oh, she's like, actually can write a song, right? Of course, there were some people that was like, oh, she got lucky. Do it again, you know?

[A]

And you did.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Yeah. Do you. Is hair salon based on a true story? Like, were you in a chair at Bernadette's hair salon? And did you hear three seats down, somebody talking about your ex boyfriend?

[B]

Yeah. The weirdest thing about hair salon, Like, I so believe that, like, my career is just, like, such a God thing, because even, like, Chase Rice randomly being there and being, like, open write a song. And I was like, okay. Like, that's like, just feels Very, like, such a God thing. I feel like hair salon. I had a dream that that happened. Like, I had a dream that an ex that I was not over at the time got engaged. And three chairs down there, like, all show. They're like, oh, my God, they got engaged. Like, look at these pictures. They look so good together. And I can see my hometown hair salon, and I'm looking out the window, like, the other way. Try not to cry. And that's, like, all I remembered from the dream. And then I had the idea, and I brought it into, like, some songwriters that I love writing with, and we, like, wrote it, and it was like, that's.

[A]

That is so weird, you know, that is so fake.

[B]

It's like, I don't. I would have never. Because I didn't actually happen to me. And I write about things that happen to me. Like, I had to dream it for that to, like, even be a thing, you know? It's crazy.

[A]

Did you call Bernadette?

[B]

Were you like, oh, Bernadette is like. She's got a picture, a framed picture of me in her salon. I have it, like, signed out to Bernadette. Yeah, she. She came to. She comes to my shows whenever I'm in Georgia, because she lives there.

[A]

But is Georgia your favorite city to play?

[B]

Yeah, I mean, I know I have a few favorites, honestly. Georgia's definitely, like, being home is always fun. And I feel like they take ownership of me, which I really love. And I feel like Tennessee, because I wrote Tennessee Orange, they also take ownership of me. So, like, anywhere in Georgia, Tennessee, Always a good time to, like, cities that I have no personal connection to, but I really love are Boston and Chicago. They're crazy. They're like, every single time. They're, like, bonkers. And I'm like, am I from here?

[A]

Did you write. Wait, so did you write Tennessee Orange on your kitchen floor?

[B]

Let me think. Tennessee Orange was an idea that I brought in, and then I ended up rewriting the. Like, the bridge and some verses and stuff like that. But, yeah, I just, like, brought the idea in, and then I finished it, I guess, in my kitchen. Yeah.

[A]

How did Tennessee Orange start? Like, what was the initial idea for it? Like, how. Like, what was, like, the first round of lyrics, you were like. And, like, how do you start. Do you start a song from the chorus or the verse, or does it just switch up?

[B]

Well, that song in particular, I thought of the hook, which is like, in Georgia, they call it a sin. I'm wearing Tennessee Orange for him. Because I was literally in a Tennessee Shirt. And I looked in the mirror and I was like, my mom's like, a die, die hard Georgia fan. And I was like, if my mom saw me in this shirt, like, she would kill me. Because my mom, like, I've never, like, worn another, like, team shirt. Like, as a Georgia girl, like, you don't do that. And so I thought of the hook, and then we were kind of writing it. I wanted it to be like, I'm calling my mom and letting her know, like, something bad has happened. Like, that's why I say, like, it ain't what you think. Like, I'm not pregnant. I'm still writing songs. I'm not quitting music. You know? Like, I. I think, like, that's in my brain. How we were gonna structure the song was like, mom, I'm calling. You're gonna freak out.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And then it kind of just. It just came naturally. I mean, I wanted to, like, make some Tennessee references. So, like, Athens and Nylander in the second verse, and then Rocky tops in the bridge. And then the day before I recorded the song, we added, I still want the dogs to win.

[A]

Because I was like, so good.

[B]

Because I was like, how my Georgia people are gonna be so pissed off. And that. That line saved me a lot. But there's still some Georgia people that are like, she needs her diploma revoked.

[A]

No way. Like, like. And they say it seriously?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

When you released that were people that you knew from college, like, how could you?

[B]

I think a few of them, but I like the most. If you understand, like, SEC rivalry, it's like, oh, damn, she really likes him. If she's going to, like, switch, like.

[A]

Teams to, like, Tennessee versus Georgia. A big rivalry.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Understood. And when you perform that song in Tennessee, is it like, somebody is getting, like, possessed? Yeah.

[B]

100. 100. Except for when I say I still want the dogs to win, I get booed there. But then in Athens, that's like the loudest line of the song.

[A]

Songs, right?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I am so excited to see that song live.

[B]

I know. It's gonna be so fun.

[A]

What's the capacity at the Greek?

[B]

The Greek is 5,900.

[A]

So you're doing 10,000 people. Wow.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Are you excited? Yeah.

[B]

It's gonna be so fun. Are you kidding?

[A]

I cannot wait.

[B]

I can't wait to, like, see you at the show. Like, where are you gonna stand? We need to, like, plan it out. Cuz I need, like, Jake's reaction. I know. Like, should he come up for. Am I okay?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Oh, for sure.

[A]

What? What would I do?

[B]

Just jump up and down.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

There's confetti and stuff.

[A]

Yes, I am. Oh, my God, I'm so excited to see it all live. Like, I. Oh, you know, we need to talk about you.

[B]

Sorry. We needed sun. We needed to get that out of the way first.

[A]

I know. I hate sun chips.

[B]

I think that's crazy.

[A]

You like the.

[B]

I think we have much different palettes. I fear.

[A]

I don't know if I'm, like, traumatized from them because I, like, they were.

[B]

Given specifically harvest cheddar, which is what I was.

[A]

I think if I were to have sun chips, it would be like, the plain flavor.

[B]

Oh, God. See, I'm offended by that as well. And I would post a hard post. This is disgusting. On the plain flavor, I will say that in the hierarchy of sun chips, I think harvest cheddar ranks second. Garden salsa is the obvious choice.

[A]

I mean, that is my 13th reason. That garden salsa, like, I think is so despicable.

[B]

Oh, my gosh. What about, like, what do you. What chips do you with a turkey sandwich?

[A]

I love a turkey sandwich. Like, potato chips. Like Utz potato chips.

[B]

Okay. I don't think I know that brand.

[A]

Okay. So don't you worry. I have it in bulk at my house.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

So before you leave, I'm going to give you an UT's barbecue chip and an UP plane chip.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Okay. They will change your life. You're going to say, hey, these kind of taste like lays. They don't.

[B]

Okay, I got it. I appreciate a good chip. I'm a chip girl. I actually have the sun sun chip, like the harvest cheddar ones on my writer. What's your writer sun chips Veggie tray.

[A]

Oh, yum.

[B]

Beef sticks.

[A]

She loves beef sticks.

[B]

A chomps beef stick. Boy, boy, if you don't. My Alani new the watermelon Wave flavor. Cold brew, Essential water. The big one. It's really, like, not that interesting. Like, oh, the peanut butter pretzels.

[A]

I love peanut butter pretzels. You know what's so funny about peanut butter? And this is so random, but do you ever feel like there's something that your palate, like, your taste palette, like, got accustomed to as you grew older? Like, I used to hate tomatoes. Love tomatoes.

[B]

Now let me think. Yeah, I've always loved tomatoes. Oh, like Brussels sprouts. I fuck with the Brussels sprouts.

[A]

And you not.

[B]

I used to not especially if they're, like, crispy. I've kind of realized, though, that, like, all vegetables I eat need to be, like, on fire. And then Taken out of the oven.

[A]

You know what I mean? Agree with you. Yeah.

[B]

Like, if they're soggy and steamed, I'm.

[A]

Like, oh, I like steamed broccoli. You don't like steamed broccoli?

[B]

It needs to be, like, black, like, the edges, and then I eat the edges first.

[A]

Oh, okay. Do you cook? No. Okay. Flaw, right? No, that's not a flaw.

[B]

It's one of my cons.

[A]

What do you think your cons are?

[B]

Inability to cook, never being home, or, like, is this just in general, as a human? Yeah, just in general, I would say so. I'm not dirty, but I'm messy. So, like. Like, I'm not gonna leave food or anything out. But, like, when I get dressed. My mom called it Hurricane Megan. Growing up, it's just like, the. The thought of putting things back where they belong doesn't even cross my mind.

[A]

Because you're just like.

[B]

And it becomes a tomorrow problem because.

[A]

It'S just like, it's left. Yeah.

[B]

You're on the ground now.

[A]

Yes. Yes.

[B]

And your next to the shoes. And I know exactly where you are, but you're not getting attention today. I mean, there's been sometimes, like, if I'm, like, dating a guy and he comes over without, like, warning, and then I'm like, whoa, don't go in my room. Right.

[A]

Because it's a hot.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Yeah. You have performed now with Tate, who I adore. Twice now. And, like, tell me how that friendship started and everything.

[B]

I just love her so much. She's so much fun and, like, the sweetest, and she's so talented. Like, I could go on and on. But yeah, so last year, she. I guess we've been, like, following each other on Instagram for a while. I've obviously been a fan of hers for a while. I didn't know she knew who I was for there for a second, but we were Instagram friends. And then she was like, I'm playing in Nashville. Do you want to, like, do Tennessee Orange? Or, like, I can't remember how it went, but we did Tennessee Orange at that, like, amphitheater. And then this year, again, she was playing Bridgestone, and I happened to be home that day, which is, like, really rare. Cause it was a Thursday, and. And usually I have shows Thursday to Saturday, but I didn't. So I was like, this is perfect. And we did, like, the emo version of Six Months later.

[A]

She, like.

[B]

She, like, kills any song she does. Also, her tour.

[A]

Were you not, like, so gagged beyond belief?

[B]

My jaw from the intro up until I Had to leave to go backstage. I was just like. I was like, I don't know if I want to be her. I don't know if I'm in love with her. Like, and. And she's my friend, and I. I think she's, like a superhuman. Because not only is she so talented, she's, like, so normal and kind. I'm like, wait, like, the intro, where it's like the silhouette. I was like.

[A]

And then she go. And then she. This light just, like, beams down on her. It's like the actual. It's. I don't understand how she doesn't get tired.

[B]

I know. I was literally. We went out after, and she was like. She's the one that was like, do you want to go to a bar after? I'm like, sure. Where are we going? And we went to Broadway. But just, like, her energy and even, like, all the dancers, I'm like, y' all just played, like, the longest show of, like, it's a full workout.

[A]

You know, they're at two hour workout, right?

[B]

And y' all have energy to then go out and have just as much energy. It's. It's insane. It was so much fun, though. They're, like, also talented and kind. I just love her.

[A]

She's the greatest. You guys should clap on a song one day.

[B]

I wish. I think we. I think if we, like, got time to write, like, it would be. It would be fire. You have to do our new song, the Tipper Tat. Oh, my God.

[A]

Sickening.

[B]

I know.

[A]

Sickening.

[B]

We've had it on repeat in my green room. Like, that's the only thing we listen to people like. Or my openers are probably like, oh, my God. Does she know any other songs?

[A]

No, I listened to it for the first time in the car the other day. She ate. She ate eight.

[B]

I love her.

[A]

Okay, I think I do need you guys to write a song together, actually.

[B]

I would love that. I also, like, told her too, because she's so young. Like, I'm 27. Isn't she, like, 22? Yeah.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I was just, like, telling her. I'm like, you do, like, such a good job of handling everything. Like, you're such a superstar. And I feel like I'm at the perfect age right now to be dealing with all of this, but if I was your age, I don't know if I'd be handling it as well. So I was like, good job, Tate. You're killing it, sister. Like, she should be proud of herself.

[A]

Do you. So are you about to enter Your Saturn return or do you feel like you've already entered it?

[B]

What does that mean?

[A]

A Saturn return is?

[B]

I know Casey says it, but I just sing along my Saturn.

[A]

Explain what a Saturn return is.

[B]

Saturn comes around every like 27 to 30 years and apparently look like I might not get the facts completely right, but Basically when you're 27 to 30, you have this like major life reckoning where you, like, if you're not on the path that you're meant to be on, the universe will shift it. Will shift it.

[A]

Oh, I actually don't want to talk about this anymore. No, no, but.

[B]

It'S like, in a good way. It's like you just like really come into yourself is like the non scary way of saying, okay, yeah, I think I'm there. I think I'm like. In the past year, I would say I've gotten just like so much more confident in myself and like, I know exactly who I am and I know exactly who I want to be surrounded by. And it's just like, like I said, standing on business. I don't allow people to treat me like shit. I feel like before I let a lot of things slide because I would look for the best in people. And I think that's a good thing to look for the best in people, but not so much that it like, you know, tears apart your mental health.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Trying to hope that they do good because you know they're capable of it.

[A]

Right. And how is your mental health with like. Like, when you signed up to be a singer, like, were you like, okay? Like, did you ever anticipate like such heavy discourse online about your art and what you do?

[B]

God, no. It was like, so rough at first. I feel like once again, this year is like the first year I've actually been able to be like, stable about it. And I think I've had so much said about me now that I'm pretty numb to it. Which I think is just something that happens when there's like that many people saying negative things about you. I think now too that it's like I feel I put more weight into the people that love me and love my music than I do the people who are just like commenting hateful things on everything they see. And yeah, it was a struggle though. I mean, like, I feel like this year is the first year of like, live TV performances that I haven't like, absolutely hated. Because before I would be so anxious because I would be like, I know this is about to go on TV and everyone's gonna rip me Apart for it. This is, like, going through my head before I even start singing. You know what I mean? So it's like, that was a horrible place to be at mentally, and now I feel like I. This is, like, what I'm put on earth to do for now at least. So I need to, like, not let the opinions of people who don't matter to me affect anything that I do. And I. Like, this is the first year that I've. I feel like I've always known that, but, like, this is the first year that I've actually been able to be, like, yeah, like, fudge the haters. Fudge, you guys.

[A]

Like, do you have any, like, coping mechanisms you use if you see something or hear something?

[B]

It's kind of crazy. I'm, like, totally numb to it now. It doesn't affect me at all. I kind of, like, laugh now, which I don't know if that's a good thing, but I'm like, I just. Like when you have everyone saying everything like, oh, she's ugly. She can't sing. Who. Who let her wear that? Like, it's just like.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Do you remember the moment where you realized it wasn't hurting you as it. As much as it used to?

[B]

I think no, I don't remember the specific moment. I just remember, like, after, like, performances, I wouldn't, like, cry myself to sleep anymore because I would literally go do that and then cry because I knew people would be so mean to me. And it's like, I think for myself, it's also been having more compassion for myself. Like, this is my first time doing this, you know? So if I'm, like, performing somewhere, like, even the VMAs, that was my first time at the VMAs, so I allowed myself to be like, you're gonna be nervous because you've never done this. There's Sabrina Carpenter right there. You've never met her before. Holy. You love her, though. So there's her. There's Lady Gaga. There's Ariana Grande. And you're gonna be nervous, but that's okay because you've never done this before. Rather than, like, I think before, I was like, you have to be perfect because everyone's already gonna rip you apart, and you already know what they're gonna say about you, so you need to really bring it. And now it's like, right. I'm doing my best.

[A]

Right. There's so many people that love you.

[B]

Yeah. I think it's just important to focus on, like, my fans and because I know that Even, like, the fans that I meet just out in the wild, right? Like, they're so kind, and, like, those are the kind of. That's like. That's real, you know, like, people that just come up to you and they're so sweet and kind and, like, random anonymous profiles saying about you. I'm like, me doesn't really do it for me anymore.

[A]

Do you have any friends in the industry that you can be like, okay, you get it.

[B]

Kenny Chesney.

[A]

Okay, tell me more.

[B]

Yeah, he's been. So. I got to open for him last year on a stadium tour, and he's become, like, such a close friend and mentor. And there was a time where I was, like, really crashing out over, like, this article that got posted, and a lot of it wasn't true. Kenny came to my house because he was like, you need to, like, chill out. He was like, you are. You are building something so special, the connection you have with your fans. And, like, you were letting these, like, people eat your lunch. Like, that's what he said. And I was like, oh, shit. You ain't eating my damn lunch today. So he just, like, came over and, like, hyped me up. My parents were in town, and so my parents, like, thanked him a million times for coming and doing that because he really just, like, talked some sense into me when I was crashing out. But it's, like, so nice to have a friend like Kenny that can. He's been through it all. Like, he knows what it's like to have people talk bad about him and even, like, anything, really, because he's been doing it for so long. So he always has the best advice and he talks some sense into me. None of that matters. What matters is my songwriting, my fans, and my path.

[A]

Right.

[B]

It's, like, crazy. What? Like, how public perception can be, like, shifted based on untrue things. It's really crazy.

[A]

It's just like, I feel like in the age of, like, tick tock, tick tock can be so beneficial, but it can also be so harmful because, like, you'll get a video, it'll have 500, 000 likes.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And a bunch of comments. So of course you're gonna be like, well, it's caught a lot of traction, so why wouldn't it be true, right?

[B]

Dude, the amount of I get this is embarrassing. I get stumped by the AI videos. Like, you know, the little golden retriever that was, like, swimming around the living room or something like that. I was like. I was like, oh, my God, how did that happen? And then like, 20 minutes later, I'm.

[A]

Like, oh, what about the kangaroo with the plane ticket? Do you get stumped by. Okay. You would get stumped by that one, I think maybe if you're getting stumped by a golden. Golden retriever swimming in a living room. Because I was almost done by the kangaroo.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

What is your favorite place that you've been able to travel to because of this job, like, outside of the U.S.

[B]

I love St. Bart's I took my family there last year, like, after. Oh, my gosh. Really?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

We have to go there, too.

[A]

Yeah, we do.

[B]

Eventually. Noted. Take Jake and Tate to St. Bart's got it. I love Saint bars. I took my family there. It's so beautiful. And then I also just love the Bahamas. I recorded a lot of my vocals off my new album there. There's a studio down there.

[A]

And you. Okay. So when. So does it feel like work for you? Because if you're doing that even when you're on vacation, are you like, I need to do this? Like, this isn't work to me. Like, what feels like work to you?

[B]

It felt like work when, like, they all went on a boat trip and I had to go in the studio and sing. But. Yeah, but, like, other than that, it's just. I feel like. I don't know, maybe my Saturn has returned because I'm like. I just feel so content and, like, everything is just, like, enjoyable. Like, I'm feel so grateful that I've been doing this for, what, when I sign my record deal, like, three years now, maybe, and I just.

[A]

It's only been three years.

[B]

I think so. Right.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

But I just, like. And I know I'm only three years in. Yeah, talk to me in 40 years. But, like, I just enjoy it so much still. Like, even going in the studio, I get so excited. And the shows, like, usually there's, like, an aspect. I feel like I've talked to other artists. There's an aspect that they don't like, whether it's like, social media or touring or whatever it is and writing. And I'm like, I love all of it. And so it's just, like, really rewarding. And to be able to record vocals for my new album and then, like, go to dinner on the beach, I'm.

[A]

Like, this is the life.

[B]

Is this real?

[A]

Yeah. I was going to ask. Well, because you've had the friends that you've been friends with. You've been friends forever. Especially Natalie. Right? And did you and Natalie meet freshman year?

[B]

Yeah, we met the first day on Bid Day. In our sorority. So I remember like her and I were terrified. We didn't drink in high school. So when we got to college we thought like bid day was going to be like, we're watching movies, like wearing matching pajamas that are monogrammed.

[A]

Right.

[B]

That is not the case. And I'm not going to elaborate because I'm pretty sure they could get in trouble.

[A]

Right.

[B]

But we did not watch movies and. And there was no matching pajamas. But so her and I were kind of just a little scared. Like we both went into colle with boyfriends too. So like, you know, going around to all the frats and stuff, I was like, I'm being a loyal girlfriend.

[A]

Right, Right.

[B]

And yeah, so her and I bonded pretty quickly. We became like immediately best friends. We actually, our first social we were going to, we were really going outside the box by attending a like a social with a fraternity and on the way home from party city and I remember it was like America themed or something. We got rear ended by someone. Like we were in the same car together and we got rear ended and it pushed us into another car. So it was like a three car accident.

[A]

Oh my God.

[B]

Like the first time that we've spent like a lot of time together, you know, so waiting on the cop and stuff. We had to like go to steak and shake and we were at steak and shake for like four hours together. And then my brother came and like got her bumper off of her car. So then she met my brother. Like it was very much like after that day specifically too. We were like besties. Like no one, if they couldn't find Natalie, they were like, they asked me and if they couldn't find me, they'd be like, well, Natalie and you guys.

[A]

Live together for the rest of college. And then you guys started doing. Pursuing social media though together, right?

[B]

Yeah, that was in college. That was like right when the influencer thing was starting. And I just remember like we're broke college kids and like these brands wanted to send us clothes for free. And I'm like, I'll post about it because I don't like, I don't want to spend money on a game day outfit every week.

[A]

Right.

[B]

So it just started like that and then. Yeah, it was just like we were the sorority influencer girls and it was way.

[A]

Because it is so common to do that today. But back then it was not common.

[B]

Yeah, people, like I said, I don't think everyone thought it was the greatest thing ever. They're kind of mean sometimes. But um, yeah, Natalie and I, we just Stuck it out. And then she's literally getting married next year. We're going to be friends for 10 years next year.

[A]

That's crazy.

[B]

I know.

[A]

Wonder about her.

[B]

I know, I know. It makes me so emo. Like, I literally wrote her that song about saying, like, you're going to find a guy that's going to show up for you, and you're not going to wonder if he cares about you or loves you. And she found Alex, and he's, like, perfect for her.

[A]

And I'm just like, do you. What was it like when you played her that song for the first time?

[B]

She was there. I mean, I. We were literally down at the beach, and she was arguing with the guy that she was talking to. Like, you know when everyone's vibing and then your friend's, like, aggressively texting, like, totally not in the conversation, and you're like, someone's pissing her off on the other line.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Who do I need to kill?

[A]

Right?

[B]

And so it was like that thing, and she was explaining how he was just, like, stressing her out. And I was like, if he really loved you and cared about you, like, you would not be wondering if he did. And then immediately my brain was like, wait, Wonder would be a really cool title. So I'm like, drunk on the beach. I have a margarita and a Pineapple Willies cup, and then which. Do you know what that is? Pineapple Willies.

[A]

Of course not.

[B]

Okay. Yeah.

[A]

Is that a Southern thing?

[B]

Yeah, it's a Panama City delicacy. So pcb. We have to take you to pcb. That would be so much fun. Megan, Jake and pcb.

[A]

What is pcb?

[B]

It used to be the spring break hotspot.

[A]

Would I survive?

[B]

There was a lot of debauchery happening.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Back in the day. Now I think they're trying to brand it more as, like, family friendly. Right. Back in the day, not the case.

[A]

Was this PCB trip the same one that somebody liked your Instagram photo?

[B]

Okay, so not the Natalie one. No, that was a few years later. But yeah, I drunkenly wrote Wonder. Like, I wrote the first verse in the chorus without a guitar in the water. Just the words.

[A]

Because I was standing alone. Yeah.

[B]

I was like, I gotta go real quick. I need. I need some alone time. So I walk away from them. I come back, and then I got my guitar and finished it that night. And I remember it was actually, like, so wholesome. I'm sure, like, somebody has a video of it, but it was like, we took, like, a group trip. So there's maybe like 15 friends all down there. And after I finished the song, like, I was sitting on the porch swing and I played the song for everyone. They were, like, sitting on the porch, and I remember everyone. I think, like, when I wrote that song was when I realized that, like, not everyone can write songs because they were so impressed. And I was like, really? Yeah, I was like, what do you mean? Yeah, I just like, Natalie said she was going through this, so I just, like, wrote it down and made it rhyme. And yeah, so now I heard it right away, but it's really. No, I think she was just like. Because she didn't know Alex at the time, so she was, like, going through it. She's like, you're right. I do need someone. That doesn't make me wonder.

[A]

So. Yeah.

[B]

It's just crazy. She's getting married now. I'm the maid of honor.

[A]

Got maid of honor duty saying wonder at the wedding.

[B]

They. Yeah, I've been. I told them I would sing if they wanted me to. I don't know exactly what I'm going to sing, but maybe wonder. Yeah, that makes a lot of sense. Sense. Even though, like, most of the song is like. It's like, Is it weird to sing a song about her ex at their wedding?

[A]

No. Because it's about finding someone that doesn't make her feel that way.

[B]

And maybe I'll change up the words a little bit to make it more personal to them.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But I love Alex so much. He's like.

[A]

He's great. He's great.

[B]

We call him community boyfriend. Yeah. Like, when I haven't had boyfriends on Valentine's Day, he'll like, for me and Kelly, he, like, shows up with, like, balloons and, like, chocolate and stuff just because he knows we don't have boyfriends. I'm like, so sweet.

[A]

That's really nice.

[B]

Just, like, very thoughtful. And, like, anytime. Like, I remember when I first saw my record deal, he, like, took all of us out to dinner. Like, just. He's like, the best.

[A]

When you signed your record deal, what was the song that got you signed?

[B]

Tennessee Orange.

[A]

And you. And you dropped that on streaming services or like, YouTube or.

[B]

Yeah, it was streaming services, but I released it as an independent artist. So I literally, like, made the COVID art on my phone.

[A]

And then when and how did it. Did it take off via Tick Tock or, like, how did it work?

[B]

I posted an acoustic video of me first, like, back in March, and that kind of blew up. And people were like, oh, my gosh, we need the song. But it Wasn't the studio version. And then I decided to release it, like, right around football season with, like, I did, like, this campaign with Spotify. So it was like, I just put it out. And then as soon as, like, the official sound was on Tick Tock, people started making, like, just relationship videos. It was, like, really wholesome and they were completely ignoring. I didn't realize how much of a universal song it would be, I guess because I thought it would be very, like, you know, only Georgia and Tennessee people or people that know about, you know, college football rivalries. Like, only they would know about it. But they were using the part of the song that was like, I met somebody. Like, he ain't from where we're from, but he feels like home. Like, that's the part of the song that they cared about more than Tennessee Orange, which I thought was interesting. And I get asked a lot, like, how do you, like, replicate something like that? And I'm like, I don't think you can. I think it's like, it's so random. Like, I'm like, why did. I don't know why they loved that so much.

[A]

You weren't expecting it to do it at all?

[B]

No.

[A]

Right. Do you feel like people have, like, demoitis, like, when you perform a song, when you play it, like a song, like, on. Well, you know, obviously, like an acoustic of whatever, and then people want it to sound exactly like that. Or when you debut a song live.

[B]

I will say I'm very careful of not doing that to my fans. I. If I'm gonna tease it, then I make it very similar to what is recorded because it's like, I don't want them to get attached to something that's, like, not done right. I think maybe in the past I would have posted, like, true demos, but nowadays, I mean, I don't really tease music like I used to anymore. Like, especially, like I said with this new album, like, I'm so precious about all of it. I'm like, I need. I kind of need everyone to listen to it, like, all at the same time. And I don't want there to be too many surprises. But my fans do know there's a song called Wedding Dress coming out. The chorus goes on to say, like, I'm gonna miss him in a wedding dress. Like, don't let me miss him in a wedding dress.

[A]

Just let me get over him.

[B]

Like, by the time. By the time I get married.

[A]

Yeah, because, you know, you're not getting married to him. Are you able to talk about, like, a timeline of the New album or no?

[B]

No.

[A]

Okay, cool.

[B]

The live album.

[A]

The live album's out October 9th.

[B]

October 9th. And nobody knows that yet, but the live album was literally not planned. It wasn't in my deal. I got, like, halfway through the tour, and I was like, oh, my God, it's ending soon. Like, this era is ending soon, and I need to remember it. So I fortunately have the best team ever. And they just like, we're like, okay, I guess we'll, like, get everything mixed and together. And so it was, like, very last minute, but I'm, like, very attached to this era, so I needed it to be like a whole live thing. And you'll. Once you come to the show, you'll understand why it's necessary. But I was listening to mixes, like, late last night, and it really puts you, like, back in the show. And it's like, I don't know, I guess maybe, like, break it right back. I think you. And honestly, maybe even third time's the charm. I think you feel more of the emotions when I sing it live than in a studio, just because, like, in a studio, it's just way different. But I'm excited, I think, too. It's just like, I. I call the tour group therapy because there's just so many. There's so many different kinds of songs. Like, you're crying over no caller id. Don't you get tired of hurting me? And then you're like, you sing Lucky and you're like, oh, we're getting drunk tonight. Woo. And then, bless your heart, you're, like, screaming at the people who bullied you. And then the girls, you're singing it with your friends and you're. It's just like, it's a. It's an experience. And so that's why I was like, before this era ends, I have to get the whole thing recorded and just put out. And so I'm literally, like, announcing it the night before that it's coming out, and then it'll come out on my birthday just because I'm like, I'm obsessed with you guys.

[A]

Oh, that's going to be awesome.

[B]

I'm emotionally attached to the color blue and the American era. So.

[A]

Hey, so I was about to say, so the Lucky era was green, right?

[B]

Green and gold.

[A]

Green and gold. This era was just hues of blue. What can you say what colors you're thinking of for your next era?

[B]

No, I can't. I don't want to give any hints. My fans have already picked up on stuff. Picked up on stuff. But I will Say, like, I don't want to toot my own horn. It's my best work.

[A]

Yeah. Let me say. Let me see.

[B]

Like, I hate to toot my own horn, but. Two. Two.

[A]

Yeah, to that. Literally to that.

[B]

Okay, are you ready for the front and back?

[A]

Yeah. Wait. Oh, my God.

[B]

The right is the front, obviously.

[A]

Shut up.

[B]

Iconic.

[A]

This is your best album cover. This is amazing.

[B]

Thank you. I'm sweating, obviously.

[A]

I'm going to the track list. Sorry. I'm looking at the track list. Sorry. Okay. What.

[B]

What is your out of the list? Say your favorite title. We can just bleep it out.

[A]

Wait, I'm sorry. Yeah. I was not expecting that.

[B]

Oh, you saw it.

[A]

I wasn't expecting that. My jaw just dropped. Yeah.

[B]

I will.

[A]

For your new album, what do you feel like is the most different from the Am I OK Era in terms of, like, the themes?

[B]

I think the biggest difference with this album is that just, like, my feet are so planted and I know exactly who I am. I feel like I've always known who I am, but, like, I, like, know who I am and I'm willing to take risks now. You know, it's like, before, it was like, this is who I am the first two albums, but this is like, yep, this is me.

[A]

Sonically, is there anything different?

[B]

It's definitely. It's actually interesting because some of the songs, like, could definitely get played on pop radio.

[A]

Really?

[B]

Like, it's. It's straight up country pop, which is exciting. Like, we used sounds I've never used in albums before. And I told my production. Production, my production, my producer told my production. I told my producer to go crazy. But I will say that, like, even though some of them lean a little bit more like country pop, all of it is still real instruments and stuff. So it's still very organic in me. But then again, there's like, the most country song I've ever, you know, I'm.

[A]

Ever gonna release song. Like, the most country. Like, what elements of a song to you are like, this is traditional country.

[B]

I think it's just like, they're traditional melodies, and when you hear it, you'll understand. But, like, in that song I'm talking about, that's super traditional. The chorus is. Starts lower than the verses.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

It's like. You know what I mean? So it's like, just. Just structured, way different than, like, a country pop song on the album. You know what I mean? So I do think there's like, a little bit of everything.

[A]

Do you see yourself, like, ever genre shifting or do you Think country forever.

[B]

I love country music a lot. I mean, that's. I don't listen to a lot of music, but when I do, it's like 2000s country that I grew up on. So I just, like, just love country music. So I don't know. I mean, I don't even know what I'm eating for dinner, so my plans change all the time. But I do think, like, yeah, for the foreseeable future, it'll be country. But you'll notice, like, on this next album, there's definitely some stuff that's like, that never would have been on Lucky or Am I okay? You know, So I think that's exciting. And it's just very like, me, like, I don't think it even is a genre. You know what I mean?

[A]

Like, when you were talking about, like, traditional country melodies, was melodies something that came to you? Like, creating a melody for a song, Is that something that came to you very naturally, or was that something you.

[B]

Had to learn very naturally? I don't even. I don't. I was telling my dad recently, like, I don't even remember learning how to sing harmonies, but I just know them, you know what I mean? Like, it just in my head makes sense. And I think it's because he had me listen to a lot of eagles growing up.

[A]

Do you have any, like, North Stars bucket list moments that you really want to get done in the next few years?

[B]

Ooh, bucket list moments. I want to play Bridgestone Arena.

[A]

That's Nashville.

[B]

Like two nights probably. And what else do I want to do? I want to meet Taylor Swift.

[A]

Oh, like, as a songwriter, though, like, what do you see that Taylor Swift does that the general public would never catch? Like, that you're like, oh, that is so cool that she's able to do that.

[B]

Everything. I just think, like, she. She's so thoughtful, and that means a lot as an artist. Even, like, I'm learning, You know what I mean? If you really, like, put the fans first and put your work first.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Like torture poets. That album got me through some But.

[A]

Daddy I Love him is one of my favorite songs of all time.

[B]

By her Smallest man who ever lived is my. One of my favorite all times. Like, it's up there with all too well.

[A]

10 minute version is all. 12 minute version your favorite because it's the longest. Yeah.

[B]

I'm like, I need as much, much healing as I can get.

[A]

Taylor, that came out when I was in college and I just remember, like, literally driving around campus with Brett blasting it.

[B]

I was impressed with how Quickly. I memorized the whole song.

[A]

Me too. It's because you want to know what it is. And I. I feel the same way about your music is you're telling a story, so when you're telling the story, you can remember the beginning, the middle, and the end, and you know how to get there. So then it kind of just comes naturally to you.

[B]

She's a legend. I just. I really want to meet her, so.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

That was the bucket list.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

We went on our Taylor Swift tangent.

[A]

Okay, are you ready? Tell me what's wrong.

[B]

I'm so ready.

[A]

Okay. I was so honored when you told me you actually listened to this show. Duh.

[B]

It gets me through cardio. I hate cardio. So much, so it, like, allows me to dissociate and not just stare at the timer.

[A]

Are there any other podcasts you listen to?

[B]

No. I mean, like, not really. I feel like, because we're friends, too. I'm like, you make me laugh so much. I was literally telling Jada, like, on the way here, like, there have been days where I've been having a bad day, and I literally go and just look at your reenactment video.

[A]

Videos I need to do.

[B]

They're so funny.

[A]

I need to do them more.

[B]

And that's why I'm like, you're such, like, a light to people because it's so funny. And, like, you're. You're not even trying that hard to be funny. And it really is, like, allows you to just, like, dissociate for a second and be happy.

[A]

I love you.

[B]

I love you.

[A]

I. That made my day again. My boyfriend constantly forgets important things going on in my life, such as anniversaries, friends, birthdays, and even job interviews. I've told him it makes me feel invalidated, and he doesn't seem to fix it. And don't just say break up. He's great.

[B]

Besides this, when I say dump, you say his ass.

[A]

Dump his ass. Dump his ass.

[B]

Yeah. Because I do think that those kind of things are coachable, too, you know? Like, if you're just refusing to acknowledge anniversaries and shit, it's just like, that's a you problem. Like, sure, maybe you forgot once, but, like, if you say that, it bothers you and it hurts your feelings. It's not that hard to, like, make a note.

[A]

Do you feel like it's deeper than that? Like, if a guy's forgetting things like that, like, do you think it, like, goes deeper than just, like, the surface level forgetting of it all? Like, he's not listening to you.

[B]

Yeah, I think that just comes off as he doesn't care that much about your feelings.

[A]

What song of yours would you tell her to listen to? What would you prescribe her?

[B]

Wait, what was what? Could you read it? What was. What's she saying he's doing again?

[A]

She's saying he forgets anniversaries, job interviews, friends, birthdays, and she doesn't want to break up with him because she says he's amazing. Besides this.

[B]

Oh, man on the moon. I don't know. Just dump him. I don't know if you. If you've talked to him and he refuses, that's like a problem, you know? Right. Because like, there's going to be larger problems in life where like you have to talk to. Talk to someone and say like, hey, this hurts my feelings. And if he's not, doesn't even like try to be better at it, then it's like me, that's not your person because he doesn't care.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Which is like it bothered them enough to write into a podcast. Right. So like.

[A]

But like, yeah, they just seem to be making excuses. Maybe.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Sorry.

[B]

Sorry. Man on the moon. Another man on the moon.

[A]

My brother in law consistently flirts with me. My whole side of the family really, but mostly me. My husband doesn't ever seem to mind, and I didn't really either, but now it's getting on my nerves. I know he's joking, but I also think he's kind of not ideas on how to approach this without being overshadowed. Yeah.

[B]

Skip Thanksgiving.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

That'S really odd. I've not ever had an experience.

[A]

So.

[B]

Does the sister know? Do we think does. If it doesn't bother the sister, then maybe you're overthinking it, but maybe the.

[A]

Brother in law is single.

[B]

Wait, brother in law?

[A]

Her husband's brother is flirting with her.

[B]

Her. Oh, I thought. I'm not sure what I thought. Okay. Her husband's brother.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Is he single?

[A]

Well, that's. Sometimes we miss context here.

[B]

Yeah. Okay. Yeah, I wouldn't worry about it. It's kind of like. Okay, yeah, stop being weird. I don't know.

[A]

So back in January, I was at a party and my friends were literally planning a holiday to Bali in front of me. After the party, I said something and was like, I'd love to go to Bali. Fast track to a week ago, I saw my friend's private snap story that they're all on a plane to Bali without me. So they're not your friends?

[B]

Yeah, they're not your Friends and like to leave you on the private snap story. Fake.

[A]

Right. Like, that's crazy. Yeah. Well, have you ever been. Have you ever had news broken to you via social media like that before.

[B]

Where you've been like, yeah, but I don't take things that personally. And it's. I guess it's not happened to a close friend. I would say, like, my real, like, solid group of friends wouldn't do that to me, so.

[A]

Right.

[B]

I guess, like, when I was younger, in middle school and stuff, I didn't get invited to parties and stuff like that. Yeah. Find out that everyone had fun without me, and I was like, oh, perfect.

[A]

But would you even. My thing is, like, I used to, like, go through similar things, and it's like, you don't even want to be there if you have to beg to be invited.

[B]

Yeah. And I. I always say, yeah, you need better friends. Like, my friends. If I wasn't invited to something, there would be, like, a reasoning behind it or something. You know what I mean? Like, it would never be intentional. And that's why I appreciate that about my friend group. Like, you know, if Kelly can come on the road one weekend and, like, the bus is full, my other friends don't, like, get mad and they're like, oh, well, you picked Kelly over me. Like, it's not like that because, like, you'll just come next time. And it's not. Nothing's personal, you know?

[A]

Did you ever go through a period where it was like that and you all learned to be like.

[B]

No, I think it's just, like. What's crazy is in our 10 years of friendship, almost, Natalie and I have never been in a fight.

[A]

What?

[B]

Never?

[A]

Never.

[B]

We've been annoyed with each other. Like, you know, just, like, we've spent too much time together, and we just give each other space. But as far as, like, we've never. Like, we talk. We talk about it a lot, too. And I think it's because, like, we respect each other so much. Like, the communication's always there. We never, like, if anyone feels weird about something, we just talk about it. You know what I mean?

[A]

Right?

[B]

Like, it's not. And we've never been competitive, so I think that helps, too. Like, it's a very special thing, I think.

[A]

And you haven't always had that, though, right?

[B]

Like, no. Like, in high school, and I had a good friend, Caitlin, in high school, but, like, other than her, it was like, yeah, Natalie is, like, my best friend forever.

[A]

You know? What I would prescribe, actually, is wonder, because I think wonder can be applied to all relationships, not just romantic.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So like real friends wouldn't make you wonder.

[B]

Yes. And the girls, because you need some good girlfriends. That.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Bring home the wine.

[A]

Exactly.

[B]

When you need a friend, they don't think twice.

[A]

I've only ever slept with one person before. My long term boyfriend. We've been together for four years and I love him more than anything in the world. But I wonder if I should have been more sexually adventurous before getting into this. But I didn't plan this. I just fell in love and would never want anything to change between us. Help.

[B]

I think that's like a lot of curiosity. I think that if you're like happy and in love, should probably stick with that. Right?

[A]

But like she's saying like, what if, like what? Like should I have explored more before this relationship?

[B]

Because I'm never tell you, these streets.

[A]

Out here.

[B]

The grass is not greener, right? No. I'm just kidding. I guess that's like a personal thing. You don't want to like get married and then wonder. To wonder. Once again.

[A]

Once again.

[B]

So I guess if your God is telling you you need to go explore, then go explore.

[A]

But have you ever seen how if.

[B]

You'Re really in love though, right? Like, are you really in love then?

[A]

Well, if you want your, if your love is based in like, I'm so lucky and I don't want to let this go. Like, is that.

[B]

Well, I don't think you can think like that because there's always someone out there that I think, you know, like guys that I thought that I've been in love with.

[A]

Right.

[B]

It's like happened again, you know? Right.

[A]

Have you ever been in a relationship and you're like, I'm never ever going to find something like this. And then you finally get out of it and you're like, what could I. I wish I could have told myself in that moment that I didn't know.

[B]

That every single one of my breakups I like crash out. Have you seen, did you see the TikTok I posted where like my eyes are swollen?

[A]

No.

[B]

Like it was like, what do you mean he drained the life out of you? And then you swipe and it's like, you know, I. My eyes are swollen, my like nose is red. And everyone's like, oh my God, like, like, oh my God, like five years ago. That was so crazy. I'm like, girl, this was like three months ago.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So. Yeah. Yeah. Like every single time I get my heart so broken. But you move on, you know, like it's I think I'm an emotional person, though. Like, I'm attached to the color blue, so, like, I could get my heart broken by a dude too.

[A]

You know what? What is it about blue that you love so much?

[B]

Am I okay? Like, the era, you know what I mean? Like, I'm emotional about the color blue.

[A]

Got it.

[B]

So it's like, I'm just an emotional human being in general.

[A]

Right.

[B]

So, like, I feel things deeply. So even if it wasn't that serious, I'm like, right. My heart.

[A]

What's your. Do you know anything about star signs?

[B]

No.

[A]

Okay. Because I'd love to know your rising and your moon. Because I know you're a Libra, which means you're unproblematic, and you're very. That's why I'm like, you don't fight with your friends. That does check out. Like, you're just very. Like, all is good.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know what? I would prescribe this person is the movie how to be Single. Because she's, like, so happy. I think it's Dakota Johnson. She's so happy in her relationship that she's like, I want to explore. And then she breaks up with her boyfriend and is, like, goes. Explores.

[B]

Yeah. And I do think if you have the gut feeling, then if it's meant to. If y' all are meant to be together, you'll get back together. So maybe you try.

[A]

Do you believe everything happens for a reason?

[B]

100.

[A]

Yeah. I feel like we have to tell ourselves that or else we'd go insane. Right.

[B]

And there's just been too many things that have happened where I'm like, okay.

[A]

I was gonna say, was there something that happened and it was so horrible at the time? And then you're like. You look at it now, and you're like, oh, my God. Thank God everything happens for a reason, or else I wouldn't be here.

[B]

Yeah. I mean, I got my heart broken really bad my junior year, and I, like, that was. So I started writing songs my freshman year, but by my junior year, heartbroken horribly. And then I wrote I had the dream about hair salon, and then I wrote that, and I was, like, pretty heartbroken throughout that, like, whole process. And I know that if I didn't. My heart broken that bad, and I wasn't like, you know, if I. If I wasn't.

[A]

I don't know.

[B]

That was, like, the first time in my life I, like, laid in bed for 24 hours. Like, I could not get out of bed. Like, I was like, thought the world was over. And I Think, like, if that didn't happen, then I wouldn't know to go to songwriting as, like, a therapy, like, for me, you know?

[A]

Did you immediately go to songwriting or were you, like, watching?

[B]

Yeah, I did.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Like, I started, like, needing to pick up my guitar and, like, get my emotions out. And that's when I was like, oh, because of the other guys I dated. Like, I had dated guys, like, in high school and, like, you know, the beginning of college, and I didn't write songs about them that, like, really meant anything. And then, like, once I really had my heart shattered, I was like, oh, God.

[A]

Have you ever had somebody that you've written a song about reach out to you and be like, hey, yeah.

[B]

Mm.

[A]

Really? Yeah. And are you like, sorry, or are you just like.

[B]

I'm just like, yeah. That was my side of the story.

[A]

Right, Right. I think my husband is caught in a pyramid scheme. He's always been a hustler, which I love about him, but it seems like this newest side venture sounds like an awful lot like a scam. He's not gullible, so I'm not fully convinced, but he keeps on telling our friends about this quote product, I guess, and I want to make sure he doesn't embarrass me himself. Well, if it looks like a pyramid scheme and acts like a pyramid scheme, it's most likely a pyramid scheme. Do you have anyone you know from college that you're like, they're in an MLM scam?

[B]

Yeah, I can't remember the names of any of them, but I do remember that they would. They would all sell them as, like, groups, you know? Yeah, I do remember that. I don't know what to tell this girl. Why don't you just talk to him and be like, hey, I think you're in a pyramid scheme.

[A]

Right. Maybe honesty is the best policy, but, like, come with receipts. Because he's obviously like, if you're in a pyramid scheme, like, you are sold a dream and a lie. And, like, he is going to defend that pyramid scheme until the day he dies. So you need to come.

[B]

Pyramid scheme's harmful, though.

[A]

Okay? So actually, it's so funny you say that. I. I think the issue with a pyramid scheme, so I think it's called a pyramid scheme because it's like, you'll never be able to get to the top.

[B]

Okay?

[A]

So, like, you will start here, and you, like, sell and recruit it. Sell and recruit and sell and recruit and sell and recruit until you're like, pyramid. And it's all only helping the Main person in charge of the scheme.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Am I right?

[B]

Well, yeah, I would say. I mean if he makes decent money doing it and he's happy, like what are you going to say? To live him, live his pyramid scheme dreams?

[A]

Maybe maybe scare him and be like, you could go to jail. Oh yeah, right, yeah.

[B]

And like then like the police called earlier, right.

[A]

And they're asking, they're asking around about this pyramid scheme. I caught my boyfriend of almost one year taking pictures of me in my sleep. He is literally great and never does anything wrong. Jake, what do I even do? This isn't normal, right?

[B]

Was it because you looked cute?

[A]

Do you think that's what I'm wondering now too? Like do you think he's like, oh my God, you look.

[B]

Or was he like.

[A]

Right. I feel like I'm going to be an optimist here and go with the fact that he thinks you're really adorable when you sleep. And maybe for your birthday is making a collage if you sleep, sleep in.

[B]

That's really optimistic. A bit delusional, but maybe it's possible. Yeah, right. My first gut was like, oh, maybe he thinks she's cute. But obviously if she feels weird about it.

[A]

Well, a woman's gut is never wrong.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So obviously maybe something is amiss.

[B]

Maybe he has like a fetish of some sort.

[A]

For sleeping.

[B]

For sleeping.

[A]

I'm still living with my. I'm still living in my college town. Two years after graduating, tons of people are moving out and I'm struggling with feeling stuck and deeply lonely. Tips.

[B]

If you can try to leave, I would say just anywhere. Even like what's the closest city? That's like sort of near there, I guess I do think that feeling is very valid. Even by the time I was a senior in Athens. Like, what are you, are you like 22 at that age?

[A]

22, yeah.

[B]

There was like 17 year olds with fake IDs making out in the corner. I was like, I gotta go, I gotta go. I need to leave here.

[A]

If you could bottle it up and give it to someone is torture.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Like when you are a senior in college and you look at all the freshmen coming in being like.

[B]

And they're so like bright eyed and you're just like, it's time.

[A]

Yeah, it's time to go.

[B]

Time has expired. Yeah. So I would say if you can try to plan to make moves.

[A]

Yeah. What was your favorite part about Athens?

[B]

Honestly, I just loved going to the University of Georgia. It's very like, it's very like family. Like, like there's American Whiskey in New York. I try to get you to come that day. Didn't you go on a date? Tea?

[A]

Yeah, I did.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

I did go on a date. I had something that day, and I was like, I am so. I was so.

[B]

It rained, so it, like, was not even a vibe anyway.

[A]

But I really wanted to watch the game with you. Yeah.

[B]

But anyways, like, American Whiskey is in New York, but, like, a lot of those people went to Georgia, and it's just like, everyone's so kind, and it's like, if you're a bulldog, they, like, claim you. And it's, like, very. I don't know. The camaraderie, I think, is really cool. And I just. I just loved Athens. I mean, it's like a music city. And there's also, like, 87 bars downtown or something like that.

[A]

Wait, I went to Athens.

[B]

We have to get you to Athens.

[A]

Wait, I went there and I sat my ass on the bulldog. Yes.

[B]

Wait, I think I saw that picture of you. When was that?

[A]

Oh, it was.

[B]

You play in Athens?

[A]

Yes, I played in Athens. And that. They were so polite and lovely there. And we got. Got great smoothies there. Oh, yeah, we went to the.

[B]

It's just, like, the perfect college campus.

[A]

No, that was Indiana. No, I was about to say, I think I got. What did we get to eat there? It was all. That was, like, Louise's whole. She was just, like, showing me around because she's from Georgia. Oh, yeah. I got merch. I dressed up like a frat guy. Oh, cute.

[B]

Like a little collared striped shirt. Yeah. The uniform.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

New Balances.

[A]

I should have worn New Balances. I think I'm dating. I think the man I'm dating might be a criminal. Like on some secret Breaking Bad stuff. He sneaks out. Have you seen Breaking Bad?

[B]

No.

[A]

You have to. It's amazing. It's amazing. He sneaks away constantly, is always on the phone with someone, and it does not sound like he may be having an affair. Like, the talk is all serious. I still don't know exactly what he does for work as well. What do I do? Run.

[B]

Yeah. That's given, like, the biggest red flag of them all.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Yeah, I think something sketchy is going on. And, like, if you feel like you can't even ask him, then, like, that's not good either. And, yeah, if it's sketchy.

[A]

I once had a friend.

[B]

Sketchy. It's probably sketchy.

[A]

I once had a friend. I hope she lets me tell this story. And she woke up in the middle of the night with her ex boyfriend. And he was, like, getting up and, like, going through the room, pulled out a gun in the drawer and ran outside. And she was like. And then she woke up and he was there, and she was like, hey, so what happened last night? He said, what are you talking about?

[B]

Men.

[A]

Evil. Satanic. I just found out through my parents that for the first eight years of my life, I was raised in a cult. They waited until my 24th birthday to tell me this. I feel like I'm being told I was adopted. I can't go into much detail about anything, but I'm struggling with this recontextualization of my childhood. Help. And you know what? I'm just gonna stop you right there. I am not qualified to help. You really, like, really come to terms with the fact that you lived in a cult? I am so sorry. And I think that is cause for, like, actual therapy.

[B]

Real therapy. And are you out of it? Like, are you safe?

[A]

No, she's for sure out of the cult.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

She's for sure out of the cult. I'm fascinated by cults. Sorry.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So insensitive. I'm sorry, But I am. I, like, I really am. I really, really, really am. Like, I. Yeah, like you said, you watch documentaries. Like, have you ever watched a cult documentary? I'm so sorry, but have you ever watched.

[B]

What, the dancing one?

[A]

Oh, the dancing one was crazy.

[B]

Especially the religious ones. They get people that aren't don't know that much about, you know, religion, and then they just. Right, gotcha.

[A]

Well, because are we gonna get taken.

[B]

For talking about cults?

[A]

No, I talk about cults all the time. I just feel bad personally this time because this girl was like, hey, I was in one. Please help. And I'm like. I find them fascinating, but I will tell you.

[B]

Seriously. Yeah. Get a good therapist.

[A]

Good therapist.

[B]

Sometimes you just need to, like, that was a thing. And I'm. I moved on and no longer a part of that.

[A]

For clarity, I am so sorry. You were in a cult. Please seek therapy.

[B]

Real therapy.

[A]

Real therapy, not therapists. But if you need to laugh, you're always welcome here. I pissed the bed blackout drunk and left my best friend to sleep in it. Then I found out. Oh, Jesus, Nolan. What? This was insane. I pissed the bed blackout drunk and left my best friend to sleep in it. So you're a bad friend. Then I found out I had gonorrhea. It's transmittable through pee. And now she has it, too. She won't talk to me. What do I do?

[B]

I think you got to take the L on that one. I think that's crazy.

[A]

Oh, my God. Like Loki, new fear unlocked. I would. Yeah. Pay for her gonorrhea meds. Apologize.

[B]

Flowers.

[A]

Flowers. Maybe ask, like, what do you want? Like, material wise, like, do you want new clothes? Like, I need to. You just need to, like, do things, like, to make her happy because you gave her gonorrhea and she didn't even get to have sex because of it. She slept in your pee.

[B]

Maybe the friend needs a little bit of distance, though.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So to the other friends point, maybe just some. Some time away from each other for a little bit and then maybe you can reconvene once everyone's all cleared up.

[A]

If my friend gave me gonorrhea just by peeing the bed drunk and.

[B]

Oh, it's on site also.

[A]

Why are you leaving to begin. Why are you leaving your friend to sleep in the pee?

[B]

Yeah, that's an immediate wake up. Get out of.

[A]

I would talk if somebody did that to me.

[B]

Emergency episode.

[A]

Emergency episode. I literally go to everyone in my life. How are you? I'm okay. My friend just left me to sleep in her pee and she gave me gonorrhea, so I'm not doing too well.

[B]

How are you?

[A]

How are you? Do you. Are you ever in, like an Uber and you like, tell the same story like four times and you just feel so bad for the Uber driver who's heard the same story four times?

[B]

What kind of. What do you mean?

[A]

Okay, so that might just be a me thing. Like, the other day I was in an. Okay, so the other day, usually I.

[B]

Like, in Ubers, I'm like, over sharing, laughing, talking my. And the Uber driver just like, he's being polite and then he's just like.

[A]

And that's it.

[B]

Oh, I talk too loud on that one.

[A]

Like, the other day, somebody came up to me on my flight that I was a really big fan of and was. No, it was actually outrageous. It was actually outrageous.

[B]

That was so polite of you to like, not say that at first.

[A]

No, because I was like, like, I'm obsessed with her. And like, she was like, I like your videos. And I was like, so obviously I got on the Uber and made about four or five calls, and at the fifth call, I was saying the story again and I looked at the Uber driver and he was just like.

[B]

Make it end.

[A]

Like, he was literally about to drop me off on the highway. Oh, well, that was the last time. He was wrong. Oh, did you have fun today?

[B]

Yeah, this was so Fun. We have to do it again.

[A]

Don't play with me.

[B]

I am not playing with you. We have a show coming up.

[A]

A vacation.

[B]

A vacation? Yeah.

[A]

What? Well, Megan, what did we learn today?

[B]

We learned that you don't have much chick fil a knowledge. We learned that.

[A]

That you might be in your Saturn return, and it's actually quite likely.

[B]

Oh, I learned what a Saturn return is. Yeah, I think it's returned. If it hasn't returned, it's on its way.

[A]

I learned about strawberry wine.

[B]

We also learned, you know, sometimes I think that my life is a bit of a mess, and then I hear that someone gave their friend gonorrhea and.

[A]

I'm like, okay, good.

[B]

And you just never know what people are doing in their free time.

[A]

We learned that your new album is going to be so insane for a multitude of reasons.

[B]

I'm excited.

[A]

We also learned that your live album of the Am I okay? Tour comes out October 9th.

[B]

9Th. We learned that you look great in maroon.

[A]

Thank you so much.

[B]

And that you're glowing.

[A]

You're glowing.

[B]

We're glowing.

[A]

We are glowing. And I'm so excited to see you live.

[B]

Thursday, slay.

[A]

Brett is going to die. Do you. Do you do indifferent on the set list? Second, that is her favorite song of all time.

[B]

It's so lit. It's gonna bring your earplugs. They scream, I am so.

[A]

Oh, my God, I'm so excited. I mean, we have to deck him.

[B]

Out in merch too.

[A]

Oh, you gotta get the camo tea decked out.

[B]

So are you gonna come, brother? She's gone.

[A]

Oh, my God, you're gone.

[B]

Wait, Speaking of cults, that's our cult shirt. I always say to my fans, we look like a cult in the house.

[A]

What do you call your fans?

[B]

See, I don't really have a name because, like, I call them emo cowgirls. Emo cowboys. So, like, there's that, but it's like a mouthful. Emo cow people. Emo cowpersons, emo cow beings. There's emo cow moms, emo cow dads, Ecs Ecs. Oh, yeah.

[A]

Well, Megan, I love you so much.

[B]

I love you. This was so much fun.

[A]

This was so fun. I'm excited for your live album, your new album and vacation and your show Thursday.

[B]

Yeehaw. We have so much yeehaw. I need you to wear the cowboy hat.

[A]

I'm go. Wait, I was about to say I have a cowboy hat for this concert. I'm going to wear it for it.

[B]

So people don't usually dress like that in my concerts, but you could definitely still wear it.

[A]

Oh, Brett is about to be decked out in and boots like. We are so excited.

[B]

I love it.

[A]

Well, Megan, I love you so much. Love you.

[B]

This is so much fun. Thanks for having me on.

[A]

Also, we have dinner Wednesday.

[B]

Dinner Wednesday.

[A]

Dinner Wednesday. We have the whole Megan themed.

[B]

Wait, you're gonna get to meet my parents.

[A]

Oh, I'm so excited. Is Natalie gonna be there?

[B]

Yes. And Alex.

[A]

I can't wait. I cannot wait. Yay. Well, do you want to give a little bye Bye.