Cassandra Explains It All

Steven, Andrew and I take a deep dive into the world of Reese Witherspoon—from her Southern charm to her powerhouse career. Fresh off reading Whiskey in a Teacup, I share my thoughts on Reese's take on life, style, and success. The three of us rank our favorite Reese projects (from Legally Blonde to Big Little Lies and beyond), debate her most iconic performances, and, of course, rewatch and react to that infamous drunk arrest video. Expect plenty of laughs, strong opinions, and maybe even a little inspiration from the queen of Southern grit and Hollywood wit.

In this episode we dive into the news of a 10 Things I Hate About You reboot and what it means for one of the most iconic feminist teen films of the ‘90s.We talk about why Kat Stratford mattered — her independence, her defiance, her refusal to play by outdated rules — and why any reboot needs to honor that spirit instead of watering it down.Can Hollywood recreate a character who truly challenged the system, or are we better off letting Kat's legacy stand untouched?Join us as we unpack the excitement, skepticism, and feminist hopes for what a reboot could — and should — look like.

In this episode, Steven and I dive into Scream 7—our hopes, fears, and everything in between. We break down the Scream franchise as a whole, from its high points to its most divisive moments. But the nostalgia doesn't stop there—we also revisit Nev's very first role on Are You Afraid of the Dark? and the eerie magic of ‘90s horror TV. Plus, plenty of detours into all things spooky, meta, and ridiculous. If you love slashers, scary stories, this one's for you!

Cue up your copy of Fear and get ready for the ultimate watch-along experience! Dani and I are taking on the 1996 cult classic thriller starring Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon, bringing all the drama, snark, and Gossip Girl-level commentary you didn't know you needed.From Wahlberg's unsettling stares to Witherspoon's iconic 90s wardrobe, we're leaving no roller coaster moment slide by. This isn't just a podcast—it's a full-on movie night with us as your hilarious, slightly chaotic co-hosts.How It Works:Start the movie when we say “play” and watch along with our commentary in real time. Trust us, you don't want to miss a second of our reactions as we dive into every intense twist, turn, and questionable decision.So grab your popcorn, press play when we do, and let's survive Fear together—one awkward thrill at a time!

Drenched in Drama, we dive deep into the controversy surrounding the potential ban of TikTok in the U.S. We break down the official reasons for the government's stance, explore the cultural and economic impact of the platform, and take a wild ride through some of the most intriguing conspiracy theories out there. From its addictive algorithm to its role in grassroots activism, TikTok has become a global powerhouse—and a political lightning rod. Is this about data privacy, competition, or control? And what does it say about the future of social media and free speech? Stay tuned until the end for a special treat: a clip from one of my all-time favorite TikTok creators, showcasing the brilliance and creativity the platform brings to the table. Don't miss it!

Fun throwback bonus episode with my brother. In the early 1980s Stevo and Heroin Bob are the only two dedicated punks in conservative Salt Lake City. My brother Kyle is back to help me unpack this Morman -centric 90's punk gem!

In this heartfelt episode, David Lasher opens up to share a never-before-heard memory of his friend and fellow 90s icon, Jonathan Brandis. We also hear from Ashley Parker Angel of O-Town as we commemorate the anniversary of Aaron Carter's passing, reflecting on his life, his impact on pop culture, and his legacy. Sadly we try and understand Dave Coullier's cruel cancer diagnosis on the heels of losing Bob Saget. We get into SO much in this pop culture round up: TMZ: Inside the Freak Off, Australia banning social media?!, Britney Spears & K Fed, Teen Mom, Jenelle Evans court audio, John Paul Miller, Jessica Simpson, Nick Carter, Larger Than Life (the new boy band doc), Lou Pearlman, the Wicked dolls fiasco, the Hanson cult?, and so much more! Enjoy ;) & Happy Birthday Shawna!!!!!!

Today we are joined by Melanie Martin, the ex-fiancé of now deceased child star & pop star Aaron Carter. Aaron and Melanie share one son, Prince Lyric Carter. Mel, Tiff and I sit down to speak about the shocking conspiracies surrounding Aaron Carter and P Diddy. We discuss everything from the people who sought to take power of attorney over Aaron to the triggering news of Diddys's arrest. We get into the raw reality of the healing journey and how conspiracies and gossip shape our society. Buckle up, because this is going to be a wild ride!

Hey everyone, this week we are going to dive into the exciting Anna Kendrick directorial debut "Woman of the Hour" a film about the infamous dating game killer.  For those of you who may not be familiar, the dating game killer, also known as Rodney Alcala, was a serial killer who appeared on the popular TV show "The Dating Game" in the 1970s. He was later convicted of killing at least 8 women and possibly as high as 130. Watch along on Netflix so you can give Steven and I all of your thoughts when the episode drops Friday! TRIGGER WARNING-We will also be discussing the FULL true crime story of the dating game killer Rodney Alcala!

[Pop Culture Expose] Season 1 Episode 1 - The Golden Age of Hollywood - Where Celebrity Gossip Began. Join myself Dani and another very special guest as we premier her new podcast Pop Culture Expose!!!!!!!!!

Today we go on what can only be described as an unhinged deep dive into my thoughts on Pod Meets World, Boy Meets World, Girl Meets World and the healing power of T.V. Enjoy ;)- January 10-2024

Manny and Heather join me to take a nostalgic look back at the 1995 Mary Kate and Ashley comedy It Takes Two! Alyssa and Amanda are two little girls who are identical, but complete strangers, that accidentally meet one day. Ok?! We had so much fun talking all things nostalgia and Olsen twins, enjoy ;)

Today Steven and I sit down to go over an article about the upcoming Doc, Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter. We have some inside information and a few updates as well. Let me know your thoughts below!

Today I interview Bunny ( cheap van life with bunny) and talk about the rise of interest in the infamous Slab City. Trigger warning as this episode contains some pretty graphic stories.Slab City, also called The Slabs, is an unincorporated, off-the-grid alternative lifestyle community consisting largely of snowbirds in the Salton Trough area of the Sonoran Desert, in Imperial County, California. It took its name from concrete slabs that remained after the World War II Marine Corps Camp Dunlap training camp was torn down.[3] Slab City is known for attracting people who want to live outside mainstream society.

Have you ever wondered what happened to "McGruff the Crime Dog"? Well today Steven and I sit down to unearth some shocking news! In 2014 John R. Morales was sentenced to 16 years in prison after being arrested in 2011. He was found in possession of a large quantity of drugs, weapons (a hand grenade), and tons of ammunition. We also talk a bit about Drew Barrymore, at the time she was already a well-known actress, having starred in movies like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) and Firestarter (1984). We dive into her court ordered punishment that led her to appear in a PSA, "McGruff the Crime Dog: The NO Show 1987 with Drew Barrymore". Enjoy!

Steven and I sit down to discuss Alexa's recent erratic behavior, including silencing survivors and yelling at AOC. We take a closer look at why Alexa refuses to call out SLOAN for platforming Enty and much more! Trigger warning as toward the end of the episode Alexa reviews a clip sent to me by Enty that she describes as the wost thing she has ever heard. Let's get into why these online gossip grifters are protecting each other.

Max (measuring flicks) and Cassandra kick off their month-long exploration of the cinematic archetype and cultural phenomenon that is the Manic Pixie Dream Girl with 2004's Garden State. Are MPDG's just a holdover of outdated feminine societal structures from eras past? Infantilized male fantasies? Freudian mommy stand-ins' listless dudes feel okay about kissing? Are there two funk songs about Danny DeVito hidden in the episode somewhere? Find out! Tune in! Drop out! 

In this extra long episode Cass and Tiff do a deep dive into the relationship timeline! 

Today we are doing a quick recap of The Woman in Me. Michelle Williams is a genius and as tragic and heartbreaking as this book is, I can't wait to listen to it all over again. Enjoy ;)

I couldn't think of anything scarier for Halloween than these two monsters! MAJOR TRIGGER WARNING FOR THIS EPISODE. Today I am taking a look at the only project Shia and Marilyn ever did together Born Villian, but that's not the only thing they have in common. Born Villain is a surrealist horror short film directed by actor Shia LaBeouf in collaboration with singer Marilyn Manson. The film features a series of DISTURBING vignettes. I also discuss the current accusations against both singers and their connection to Johnny Depp. Enjoy ;)

I didn't have much time to edit but Allison and I did get a chance to dive into Tampa 90's con!!!!! We both went this past weekend and met SO many of our favorite nostalgic celebrities with Allison even getting to interview some of them. I can't wait to share this episode with you as it was such a treat to have someone who was a member of the press behind the scenes for us. We discuss signatures, photo ops, panels and everything in between! Enjoy ;)

PATREON PREVIEW!!!! Today we begin our journey through Drew Barrymore's culturally iconic and illusive memoir, Little Girl Lost. The child star of "E.T." describes her own nightmarish descent into alcohol and drug addiction--habits that were encouraged by her unique lifestyle--and her decision to enter therapy at age thirteen. Chapter 1 - Headlines. Enjoy ;)

Today I take a look back at Nick Carter's 2001 Love Line appearance. He was fresh off the stage and an amazing guest. We get some questions from callers about Aaron and Leslie as well. Hate them or love them Dr.Drew and Adam were asking a lot of great questions back in 2001. Enjoy ;)

Today we are talking about one of my favorites and how it is getting a reboot (uh oh!) Weeds! 'Weeds' Reboot Moves Back to Showtime: In 2019, news broke that a Weeds sequel starring Mary Louise Parker in her familiar role as pot dealing housewife Nancy Botwin was in the works. After landing at Lionsgate and Starz, the deal has moved to Showtime, the series' original home. "The Weeds revival would be written, and executive produced by Christian Torpe, creator of the popular Danish series Rita, and would feature Nancy (Parker) in Copenhagen, I hear." WHAT!!!!!?? Enjoy ;) 

In this episode I speak with Melanie Martin to discuss important and tough topics like grief, motherhood and Aaron's legacy. We discuss mental health, addiction and growth. We get into staying with Aaron through the hard times, Louis and others, stalkers and parasocial relationships, cheating rumors and we also leave the door open for more questions! This episode is a relief in many ways but also a sad one. We talk about Aarons final resting place, his legacy and what's next for Melanie and Prince. Enjoy ;)

In today's episode I take the deepest of dives into the cultural phenomenon of the song "I Want Candy". Did you know that “I Want Candy,” the strangely timeless song released by The Strangeloves in 1965 has a deep-rooted connection to tribal drumming? The Strangeloves were inspired to write "I Want Candy" in 1965 after they took a trip to the 1964 World's Fair and producers saw a performance by Candy Johnson, a dancer known as “Miss Perpetual Motion" and the rest is history. Enjoy ;)

Today I take a look back at some of the most nostalgic elements of 1999. Topics include the emergence of CD technology, the top songs of May 9th 1999 and even the Y2K sensation ad the Nokia brick phone. Of Couse thanks to MTV we were blessed with many amazing clips. Enjoy ;)

Today we are revisiting one of the most underrated Nickelodeon shows out there. A spunky 14-year-old orphan from Philadelphia has difficulty adjusting to life on a Montana ranch owned by her long-lost cousins, the Lowes. Storylines dealing with Caitlin's attempts to satisfy her restless nature also address adolescent concerns such as peer pressure, stereotypes and sibling rivalry. Enjoy ;) 

PATREON PREVIEW!!! Nickelodeon has a predator problem. This episode is long overdue as I have covered so much of nostalgic Nick but as we all know Nickelodeon as a network has had a very dark secret for many years. Sadly, Nick isn't the only children's network whose closets are overflowing with skeletons, but it is the topic of today's episode. John K revolutionized animation with his work on Ren & Stimpy only to destroy his career by, according to their accounts, grooming and assaulting two young animators. Although ample evidence was provided by both girls absolutely nothing was done to secure justice for the victims. Trigger warning for talk or CSAM and Predatory behavior. 

In today's episode, we go way back to the nostalgia "Ska/Reggae" scene of So Cal! The sunny days of Sublime, No Doubt, Lit and that sweet sweet cultural appropriation! I indulge in the nostalgia of that insanely large Sublime Sun tattoo that someone you knew undoubtably had. I ask the important questions like, if Brad hadn't died would we have to suffer the timeline of Jack Johnson dominating the airwaves for the last twenty years? Was Lou dog suffering a similar fate as Aaron Carter's dogs? How many times can I bring up Aaron carter in this episode? Other topics include Sublime being kicked off of Warped Tour, the band destroying Wilie Nelson's studio, and the infamous house parties that made them legends of So Cal. I have a small update on where Brads son is now, and I review the line up for Reggae Rise Up! Trigger warning as i also dive into the acceptance of songs like "Date Rape", "Santeria" and other songs/ lyrics that paint rape and violence towards women as a casual joke. All of that being said, this week would have been Brad's 55th birthday, every day we love you just a little bit more.

Here is part one of a Gilmore Girls episode that was recently released on my patreon. For more bonus episodes please consider joning :) Today I am joined by Harley Quinn, host of many hit podcasts to discuss this amazing nostalgic episode of Gilmore Girls. This is part one of two! We review the entire episode and talk about some behind the scenes of Gilmore Girls and our love of the show! Enjoy ;) 

In case you forgot: Dr. Drew was in a Mary-Kate and Ashley movie! Today I take a look at Dr. Drew's Love Line era recordings the night before and after the premier of New York Minute. This new insight into the Olsen twins' lives is valuable beyond measure. I also take a look at why this film although being a cult classic is largely problematic in nature. Enjoy ;)

Today I am very excited to talk about all things Lawarence brothers. Of course, I go over the recent allegation made by Mathew Lawarence, but this is actually more of a deep dive on Joey Lawarence, Brittany Murphy, The Torkelson's and Almost Home. The Torkelsons , 1991, to June 6, 1993 the series starred Connie Ray, Olivia Burnette, and William Schallert. For the second and final season, the series was retooled and renamed Almost Home. Almost Home starred Brittany Murphy, Jason Marsden and Lee Norris with a very special guest appearance by Joey Lawarence. Enjoy ;) 

LFO Member Brian “Brizz” Gillis Dead at 47Brian “Brizz” Gillis, one of the original founders of LFO, died March 29, his fellow band member Brad Fischetti said in an Instagram post. He was 47. His cause of death has not been shared. It may not be summer, but it is high time to talk about Summer Girls. Did you know that Rich Cronin wrote most of LFO'S songs about Jennifer Love Hewitt? On this episode we are going way back to the Howard Stern days to hear some wild interview clips and indulge in the very best of 90's boy band music. LFO survived Lou Pearlman only to see two band mates die of cancer, now the remaining member will perform at Aaron Carters memorial concert, I have thoughts ;)

This week Lyndon joins me to talk about one of the most unforgettable shows Disney aired in the Zoog Disney era. Bug Juice is about kids trying to adapt to summer camp. Along the way making friends and having unforgettable memories. This documentary lets teenagers at summer camp talk about their feelings as they experience events like love, heartbreak, friend fights, and growing pains. The first season takes place at Camp Waziyatah in Maine, but every season the location changes. We go over so many different programming blocks in this episode and play a lot of clips that may be hard to find so I hope you all enjoy it!

Tiff is back to break down what has been going on recently in the Carterverse. Needless to say, we were all disturbed by the photos of Aarons death scene that were released. We dig into the continued harassment of Aarons family by Mel and others. We also take a look at the cycles of abuse that seem to be inevitable for baby Prince.

Today my guest is a good friend Tyisha Hampton, often referred to online as "Kel Mitchells Ex Wife" is an actress and writer and the ex-wife of Kel Mitchell. We all remember Kel from Nickelodeon's All That, Keenan and Kel and Good Burger but like most things with Nickelodeon, this got dark. Did you know that Kel is now a youth minister for a California church? No? Me either! We talk about some pretty heavy subjects like satanic worship, pedophilia in Hollywood, domestic violence, and suicide. We try to explore some of the red flags that all people should be aware and discuss the nature of the patriarchy at large. Trigger warning: While talking about Jennette McCurdy's new book "I'm Glad My Mom Died", we did discuss Amanda Bynes, Dan Schneider, and some extremely upsetting acts that were witnessed by Tyisha Hampton behind the scenes of the production of these shows.

Today Enty joins me to take a very deep dive into the dark past of Disney's seemingly perfect town, Celebration. The town is filled with tales of murder, suicide a 'death pond', and even swingers. Celebration was once hailed as the ultimate dream town for Disney aficionados where they could escape to their very own fantasy land, but a series of murders and other misfortunes unfolded in this idyllic Florda community. Enjoy ;)

When I think Christmas, I think horror movies. This is an episode that previously was posted to the Cassandra Explains It All Patreon, enjoy! Do you need over two hours of Max (Measuring Flicks) and I reviewing 1998's The Faculty? Yes, you do and it's guaranteed to jack you up. When Casey Connor, Herrington High School's newspaper photographer, witnesses the murder of a nurse and sees her alive again, he decides to investigate the bizarre happenings. Join us as we take a deep dive into Kevin Williamson's slept on body horror cult classic! We talk all things horror and Danny Masterson. Enjoy ;)

Today animator Brett Wilson joins me to discuss Dr.Katz for Thanksgiving! We learn about Dr.Katz's musical relationship to Robin Williams and have a ton of fun reviewing this amazing episode. Enjoy ;)

Happy Thanksgiving! Today I'm joined by Enty lawyer to discuss the mystery of Michelle Trachtenberg. We go through everything from her start on Clarissa Explains It All, The Adventures of Pete and Pete, and Harriet the Spy to her iconic roles on Gossip Girl, Weeds, Buffy and of course the Joss Whedon of it all. We discover an unfortunate Bryan Singer connection and reveal some exclusive blind items! Get out your bingo card because Seth Green somehow makes an appearance. Enjoy ;)

Trigger warning for talk of anorexia and the pro ana community at large. This entire episode involves a lot of talk about appearance and how it can affect our self-worth. Libby is back to talk Daria! One of my all-time favorite shows. It's crazy how well Daria holds up and how endlessly rewatchable it is. I hope you all the best New Year's Eve ever! Daria and Jane create an iconoclastic poster for a contest, only to find that the school demands it be altered against their wishes.

This morning I saw that Aaron's album "Blacklisted" was released before he has even been laid to rest. I have so many words for the people who have surrounded Aaron over the last few years, but I know I need more time to process those words in a way that won't get me sued. For now, I hope that you can all listen to this interview and form your own opinions on the types of people Aaron kept in his circle. This interview was done within the last two months.

Enty Joined Tiff and I to unpack the death of Aaron Carter. This is not something I ever wanted to record but I figured I should publish it to this feed as well for anyone who needs an Aaron update that doesn't listen to Welcome to the Carterverse pod.

Today we are celebrating executive producer Shawana's birthday with a cameo from David Lascher. I expected to get all the nostalgia feels from this cameo, what I did not expect was all of the hot TEA! We get the scoop on Melissa Joan Hart and exactly what that new project that David and Chritine Taylor are working on! This is a Cassandra Explains It All Exclusive! Enjoy ;)

You didn't think I would forget you on Halloween, did you? This is a very special episode of Cassandra Explains It all as we celebrate our executive producer Shawana's birthday and the release of Trouble Takes A Holiday! I am joined by authors and podcasters Marco Sparks and James Taylor to cover this amazing episode of PLL where we visit camo Mona. In this episode the liars go glamping for Mona's birthday as A's threats escalate and the FBI arrives in Rosewood. But not even a mani-pedi can lift the girls' spirits when the evening takes a dangerous turn. We also chat about the release of their new YA book Trouble Takes A Holiday, available everywhere now. Jenny Valentine won the prize. Keeping it won't be easy. She's filthy rich, she's dating the head cheerleader, she's blackmailing the star athlete, and she's got an ace up her sleeve that no one will see coming. Life is good for Jenny Valentine, the tiny teenage sleuth and misanthropic heiress to the late RJ Valentine's bestselling Trouble: Girl Detective publishing empire. After putting her evil stepmother away for Dad's murder, book sales and merchandise are way up, and Jenny's anxiety is way down. Only trouble is, the real killer is still out there, and he knows Jenny is lying. With six heirloom clues left, the game remains afoot, and a shocking murder case from the past might be the Stranger's new playground. Between an active serial killer, mean girls at school, an anonymous cyberbully, and a nosy reporter, everyone wants a piece of Trouble. Can't a girl have it all? The money, the fame, the romance, the secrets, and Danger too?

Here is an episode that was posted to my Patreon last year. I hope if you like it and want more, you'll join us over on Cassandra Explains It All Patreon, otherwise don't worry because there will be plenty of new content coming to the main feed soon! Please enjoy this episode of DARK. It's a classic and a fan favorite, Brett helps me break down why this episode is iconic in the nostalgia community. Enjoy ;)

With a hurricane approaching I wanted to get an episode out early in case I lose power! Here is an episode from my Patreon that The Artist Bird and I recorded last October! I am joined by the artist Bird this Halloween to talk about The Craft! That's right 1996 could not have been more obsessed with goth culture and turning out full length music videos! Fairuza Balk steals the show as usual and we just adore her in this role! Also very strange to see the Scream queen herself Neve Campbell working alongside Skeet Ulrich. Well I hope you guys are ready because, that's right you guessed it, there's a new kid in town! A newcomer to a Catholic prep high school falls in with a trio of outcast teenage girls who practice witchcraft, and they all soon conjure up various spells and curses against those who anger them

This episode was posted to Cassandra Explains It All Patreon page on my birthday, and it was one of my favorite episodes to record! If you enjoy it consider joining the Patreon for a bonus episode and exclusive content every week! Disclaimer: I'm not sure if it was the cold medicine, Manny or Tim Allen but I just couldn't stop laughing! This was a great deep dive on 1997's Jungle 2 Jungle. A man learns he has a thirteen-year-old son who was raised in the jungle and brings the boy to New York City, turning his life upside down in the process.

The world famous Enty Lawyer of Crazy Days and Nights joins me to reveal some exclusive blind items about 90's nostalgia. Topics include Melissa Joan Hart and the Sabrina the Teenage With cast including Soleil Moon Frye . We got some insight into Ben and Fred Savage including the current misconduct allegations against Fred. We chatted about The Growing Pains set and it's stars, The Wonder Years, Boy Meets World, Love line and Enty's true thoughts on Dr. Drew, and The Even Stevens stars Shia and CCR. We also chat a bit about why Kel has a bad reputation in Hollywood and SO much more. Enjoy!

We are so lucky to be joined by Venus DeMilo. You may know her as Telly from Salute Your Shorts, but Venus is also a director, producer and writer! Not to mention she has worked on some of our favorites 90's shows like Family Matters, Sister Sister, and even Sabrina the Teenage Witch! Venus shared lots of fun behind the scenes stories from different 90's sets, from Brittany Murphy to Eddie Murphy. We talk about her new projects which include a new animated series on Netflix and a new horror film, Frost, and so much more including a documentary she is currently working on. Enjoy! Venus DeMilo Thomas* | Facebook