I was a copy editor (for a newspaper) for many years. I can tell you that after I finished editing, some articles were essentially written by me, although I never received any credit. The truth is that so many reporters are actually horrible writers, and the copy editiors are the ones in the trenches making their articles coherernt and polished. I have been required to rewrite as much as 80% of an article - more times than I can count. I recommend being a freelance writer (or content creator) if you're a good journalist so that you are getting the credit (and the $$) for your hard work.
Same. Those who have a high-level grasp of comms writing such that they can competently rewrite articles like that are way more valuable than any newspaper now can afford.
At the risk of inflating your ego, you have ruined all other Taylor Swift creators for me. Luckily, your unnatural work ethic + all things Madeline are enough to keep me fed. Thanks for the content 🥂 (enjoy your break!)
I wouldn’t necessarily pool them together though. I love all people mentioned but Swiftie UA-camrs are essentially glorified fan girls. Yes they know a shit ton about Taylor and they offer value in their own ways (context on previous eras, analysing songs in depth, general enthusiasm about Taylor’s personality and music etc), but their knowledge goes as far as any other fan. They don’t have insight knowledge on Taylor (inaccessible to fans), they don’t have knowledge on the music business side of things. They offer a safe space rather than added value. I would hope a reporter is able to offer a different perspective. I want someone who is able to liaise between the fan and Taylor. Someone who understand celebrity culture. Someone Taylor can talk to and explain the meaning behind her music, give us really substance. For example, someone who could explain why Taylor teased 1989 tv for so long only to drop it 2 years later - what happened behind the scenes, why does Midnights sounds like the 1989 tv’s vaults? Were they written at the same time? Was Midnights the influence for 1989 TV or vice versa? This reporter might be able to gather attention if they plan their cards right.
I would also add that in my opinion Zach has been able to carve himself a niche within the Swiftie UA-camr space where he is able to stand out as “not just another fan girl”. He’s not just reacting to content, he’s adding real value. Unfortunately though, he doesn’t have inside knowledge on Taylor, just like any other fan out there… There’s a podcast, ‘Every Single Album’, in which Nora and Nathan also add extra value (Nathan was the CEO of Ticketmaster) as they touch a lot of the business side of things, but same thing, they don’t have an in on Taylor… We need an intermediary in my opinion. She’s so famous that she doesn’t even do promo anymore (who can blame her?) - no video or single for 1989 TV, just parading around in restaurants and stadiums lol. The fan base is desperate for some tangible info on Taylor that would add more context to her music.
As a viewer of all 3 channels mentioned here, someone needs to add that they’re all in different levels. Zach is the only content creator that dares voicing a negative opinion. I’m sorry but if a channel’s content is 40% squeaking and 60% praising, that’s of very little value. All in all, thanks Zach for not even considering the job and for continuing to make thoughtful educated and critical content.
@@miliseiffert I agree they fill different roles. If I want critical analysis I'm not going to go to Ally or Em and Bonny, but they make me feel happy cause they're so positive. I agree it's different, but I don't think it's fair to say it's not of value, they just play different roles. Love them all.
Just like I don't need Taylor to be an activist, I don't need chats and reacts to give me critical journalism. Thats why I watch Zach, for the unique perspective he brings
When i saw the job i immediately thought of you, though i instantly could see the "Taylor Swift hater fake fan gets to be an official ts reporter" narrative being thrown around as soon as you would've published your very first work that wasn't just yes man-ing Taylor💀💀💀 also you mentioning Chats and Reacts is my favorite crossover ever. Un abrazo fuerte desde Chile❤
Our commander-in-chief is WAY OVER-QUALIFIED for that position. I’d much rather support your independent work and get your honest coverage. Also love hearing your insight into the industry ❤
You are so on point in this entire video Zack! I don’t see how it makes sense to give up your freedom to say what you want while also giving up your ownership of that content? I greatly enjoy your content and I like the fact that what ever you say is coming straight out of your own brain. With the help of your integrity, straightforwardness and nuanced takes I am sure you are going to get much further on your own rather than under the boot of some dying publication! ❤ … ok that is enough fan girling behavior for one day.
"I am a Taylor Swift reporter" that's all I wanted to hear and I did! Fellas, if he works for them, the work would belong to them, they'd urge him to report in a way that he might not approve of, they might ask him to report more about her person life which he wouldn't want to on their terms... The best people in life are free! Let Swiftologist be free.
All I'm gonna say without throwing shade is that I am way happier in the Swiftologist community. The way we all went insane during Buenos Aires N2. Salute to the Snakes.
Shout out to Chats and Reacts! I literally treat both your channels as talking about Taylor with friends but one is the hyper gushing love side with insightful song breakdowns and then balanced with the "okay now lets be real" and talking about the artistry media side.
I love how you speak so eloquently yet so casually about these things! I have been slowly spiraling into obsession with your channel as I’ve watched the fandom become insane over the last 5 years lol. Pls keep those boots on the ground and Ty for ur service 🩷🫡 (and enjoy the holidays!!)
“The role of a reporter is not to be a role model… What are you talking about?!” 🤣 that got me 😆🤭 Would like to hear that Daylight take b/c I was listening it the other day making this face 🤔 🤨 which 43% more likely on that album than others. But also, would love some more pop culture hot takes and reporting. I feel like outside of the majors and the devastating news of late, I don’t know what’s going on in pop culture. I think it would be a nice treat for my brain
Watching this straight from reading all about how the site Jezebel was just shuttered and all of the other media layoffs right here at the holidays and yes, YOU SIR, are correct about all of your convictions about the state of journalism today. And to think that was my major in college about a million years ago. Absolutely love and appreciate your work.
Yess! Youre the Taylor swift reporter that owns your masters and he’s the Taylor swift reporter who’s gonna have to re-record all his masters someday 😂
I think the problem is that no matter how professional he is, people will always disagree on the fact that he should be for this job. Also I agree that you can’t just hire people based on gender.
Love how a media company thought I would read TS journalism by anyone but the Swiftologist. Love your takes on media dying and can't wait to keep up with your continued coverage.
Before I watch the video: am I the only one to just now realized that the distinctive ‘Is it over now?’ sound sample is a f***ing seagull?! I think it is the only direct reference to such a core part of the 1989 esthetic! So sorry I have no friends who like Taylor Swift and I had to say it somewhere. Ok on to today’s video! 😊
I love the way you articulate your words. You come across as very intelligent! You also have nice eyes... But I'm here for the great reporting on Taylor!
Interesting takes as always Zack! I like the repurposed twitch stream as YT content, especially if it helps you work more efficiently (and proves the point you were making nicely). Something I’ve seen other creators do is, if they realise they want to elaborate on or clarify a point during editing, they insert a short clip of themselves doing that, from a different recording session. I think those type of edits would be a good addition to Twitch videos, both to better communicate your points, but also to make them feel more polished.
100%. Everything is moving to subscription / patron models. That's the reason NYT is still making it as a legacy outlet. They basically cater to an audience now, not unlike many independent outlets.
As someone who’s had a diploma in journalism for the last seven years I say that I agree with every single point you’ve made on the career’s current scenario. It’s heartbreaking.
I love your content because you do give thoughtful criticism and remind us that at the end of the day she’s a human like us. You bring a maturity to your reporting since you’ve been in the fandom for so long. If I wanted “yes man” reporting, I would jump into any Swifttok comment section. Appreciate your videos!
Thanks for giving more inside informations about being a journalist and how it works. This is very valuable knowledge. Especially for teenagers and young adults who are still not sure about what they might like to do in their future careers. This is kind of stuff that should be taught at school.
hiii! love your videos ❤ I wanted to say also that it would be great if you could make a video about what's happening with taylor's concerts in Brazil.
Don’t take this the wrong way, but I don’t listen to Taylor Swift a ton - I think she’s a mega talented singer/songwriter, just some of her music is not for me and that’s ok! But something about her has always been very intriguing to me. You scratch that itch perfectly, I love knowing all the little bits of pop culture lore. And now I can talk to my best friend (who is a hardcore swiftie) about her, so thank you 🥰 keep being you!
I don’t trust media, I trust people. You can hold a content creator accountable because people just stop watching. You can’t with media because they have sponsors. It’s like you say, they just want to hire a Swiftie to write, and to make it public is of course for publicity and for people to engage and read their publications in the future.
This video looks like it’s a snippet from a stream. If it is, it stands well on its own, I enjoyed watching it. If taking snippets from streams warrants more videos on UA-cam- I am here for it. I don’t watch Twitch, but I do enjoy an occasional Swiftologist video during my lunch at work.
7:55 I agree, I don’t think we need a special reporter. We have the regular reporters for objectivity, we have the swifties for fandom content, and we have you for the best of both worlds. 🤷♀️
Question: I assume the idea of "if we hire a full-time beat reporter for this gig, Taylor will inevitably give us access and we will become the go-to Swiftie source" is the entire motive for the creation of this gig. Do you think Taylor will purposefully avoid giving him access in the hopes this doesn't inspire other copy-cat companies following the same move and now she's got her own little legion of beat reporters?
Dang, it (on Taylors fake accent ), I just woke up and I missed the live grrr but so happy you posted this, bless his heart but I'm glad you do not have that job and you are independent and FREE, imagine if these people owe you and years later we have to wait for (Zacks version) of thing! . I refuse, freedom is hard and it can be a struggle in so many ways but it is worth it and so glad you are with us ! The best people in life are free bishes !! oh, the packing is packing eh? Have a good flight and keep in touch duh
I can't feel like a better analogy then sports reporting might be that flavor that brand of Royal Watching reporter who start from the basis of "monarchy is good and right and the Windsors have the divine right to be the monarchs, and we must protect them, and there billions of dollars and privilege from all the meanies who want to imply divine right of kings isn't a thing." And I don't think that's a good thing. (I as a fan, of course think Taylor Swift has the divine right of divahood, but even I don't think she should be allowed to be a billionaire, or that her crossing the mark is something to be lauded as peak girlbossing) I feel like the Taylor Swift fandom has confused "Taylor Swift Journalist" with "Taylor Swift Stan" and then got mad when an actual journalist got the job. Alternately, a lot Swifties with a journalism background were probably thinking about the job less as "Taylor Swift Reporter for USA Today" and more as "Tree Paine replacement audition." Which is probably the only place a TS reporter could go, but is, again, not a great mindset to have going in. Also, even you, who brands yourself as the Swiftologist and has met her more then once, would earn the ire of the huddled masses. The one person with a PR background they quoted wouldn't have been upset if she'd gotten the job, but everyone knows everyone else would found a reason to hate her. I will continue to get my Taylor Swift commentary from the only person on the internet who has made Taylor Swift their personality without thinking everything she has ever done, or will ever do, is correct and brilliant and morally good: You.
What an insightful comment - and an astute comparison !!! Royal watch is a way better analogy than sports journalist for this position …. Thank you for watching ❤️
I suggested it to another reporter that does pretty rapid response Taylor reporting and reporting on other subjects, because it's a foot in the door for a journalist. A good thing for someone who isn't making a full income yet on Taylor reporting and has considered reporting on other subjects, especially those who would even work outside of entertainment reporting. You do discussions, deep dives, and lots of longer editorial opinions. It's a freedom you wouldn't have at any publication. You are very established, have a large loyal following, and with so many long videos, the income can't be terrible. Eta Also I love listening to you in the car, your content really doesn't rely on visuals which is a whole other market for you.
THANK YOU for mentioning that just because a woman wanted the job, doesn’t mean she should get it. I’m so sick of people getting a job because they’re a certain gender, race, etc. If you are not as qualified as someone else, you shouldn’t get the job. Period. As a woman, I don’t want to get a job just because I’m a woman. That’s insulting. All that says is that I was hired because they HAD to hire me, not because they WANTED to hire me. Rant over lol
I just REwatched your two Taylor/Travis videos about a month ago, even more enjoyable the second time! Can we have your monthly takes on updates while this is still in full madness 🙏🙏 I’m one of your watchers that subscribed if that helps 😅❤
Fully expect him to leverage this into a puff piece book deal and a recurring reporter gig at one of the primetime entertainment magazines or networks (maybe ET or Extra, but I’m leaning E!). Maybe a column in People/Us Weekly, etc. It’s just a stepping stone to something he sees as bigger.
Totally agree with everything you are saying. What would this reporting provide that we couldn't get elsewhere? I miss the vulnerability of those Rolling Stone pieces Taylor used to do. I think giving Bryan access would add value to the reporting
No, it would be Tree Paine delivering missives, which Tree already does to People, E!, the Sun, and the Daily Mail. Basically his reporting would become like a Taylor Swift PR-sanctioned tabloid report.
I agree with everything you said. My father has been a journalist since before I was born I grew up with the industry and honestly have a very thorough grasp on it. You got everything right.
Hi new subscriber here. I really love your thoughtful, authentic & unbiased reporting on Taylor so I'm gonna ask you to tackle a Taylor topic that is a huge head scratcher to me & that is the never ending Taylor vs Beyonce topic that Swifties seem to be obsessed (especially with the tour's & the tour movies (which both The Eras Tour & The Renaissance World Tour are in my opinion, Both women's best tour's to date) about which I do not understand because Taylor & Beyonce couldn't be more different artists Taylor is a genius songwriter I greatly adore & appreciate her songwriting style while Beyonce has a genius vision & is a powerhouse performer that I am forever in awe of cuz it seems she constantly out does herself with performances & both women have put themselves in their own universe in their craft while everyone it seems argue over who is better & I just don't get it. But thats just me.
When I saw people talking about how they should've hired a women and hating on this guy, I thought he must've made misogynist comments or something similar in the past. Because that would've made some sense, why they would prefer a woman because the guy they chose said awful things about women and was writing about a woman. But it was foolish of me to think swifties would be rational, and when I looked into it and found out it was because he messed up the title of a song, I was floored. Now I find out from you that he didn't even mess up the title, he was misquoted! We gotta stop this behavior every time swifties get cool opportunities or they're gonna stop giving them to us. The media is in our business more than ever, I see random swiftie tweets that aren't even about Taylor, quoted in articles. They were talking about the Holiday merch on Jimmy Fallon. We have to stop sabotaging ourselves because they're watching us.
My first thought when I saw the initial job posting was that the position wouldn’t last very long. Media is fickle and publishers are struggling so they’ll cut costs where they can. A reporter interviewed me for an article writing about the job post and I never heard anything back. I don’t think she liked my negative views on the job and the fact I said I wouldn’t be applying lol.
The girl complaining about not getting the job and a man getting it and how it should have gone to a woman and quoting The Man actually pisses me off. As a woman, yes we do sometimes have to work harder to get the same recognition as men do, but I personally never fill out the gender information when asked on job applications because I don't want to be diversity/minority hire for then to reach a certain quota, I want to be hired for the job because I had the best credentials for the job and if a man gets it over me than that's fine because he was probably the most suitable candidate! That's what's so wrong in my opinion sometimes when we make up excuses like "omg I didn't get hired because I'm a woman and they are a man so of course they were chosen over me!" Okay maybe so, or maybe you just weren't as suitable for the job and should work harder next time! Quick making excuses and take a look at yourself rather than blame everyone else
It was a huge mistake for Gannett to hire a Swiftie for that job. It’s a conflict of interest. I love Taylor, but if you’re going to have a Swift reporter, I prefer one who has no such baggage. (BTW, Casey Newton is a friend of mine, and I agree with you.)
I’m interested if future contents includes about Taylor Swift in mass communication and journalism, like how previous works help shape teenager’s identity something like that, for more in academic way.
Zach you rock. I appreciate your reasoning about journalism. Here is the big WOW: you assert that reporters are reporters, not hero role models. That is such a lost principle these days, but so basic and important to journalism. Stan Zach!
k Zach u literally have the best, most thoughtful opinions and I agree wt all of them. ur not afraid of the 12 yr old Swifties trying to cancel everyone for just saying something that isn't massive praise to Taylor swift like Taylor swift is a human she ain't perfect. LOVE LOVE ur vids so glad I found someone who knows what there talking abt keep 👏going👏
Honestly I like how you can say things like joever and be critical in a loving way and just KIKI! We can’t lose the Kiki lounge boots-on-the-ground-ologist!
I really enjoy your content, you are capable of having an objective point of view. Very informational and entertaining at the same time. Keep up the great job!
I’m just not down with the hate for men in this space. Particularly, gay white men, because when all of this was announced, I saw them specifically being singled out on twitter. It’s like you want inclusivity, but only for certain people, but now we’re not inclusive, are we? You’re the only person I follow for TS content because of your background in academia. It makes me interested in hearing your perspective.
Thoughtful commentary as always! I do think it’s funny though that he listed 3 songs he didn’t like as a basis for him unbiased. 👁️👁️ and if I can name more than 3?
I think they obviously picked a qualified candidate. But, they would have had more fan interest if the candidate they'd chosen was more popular with the fanbase. Maybe they should have narrowed down their field of candidates and had a poll to select the winner? On an unrelated note...I think the hat it cute, Zach. Remember that I'm an old lady, so it's with love when I say it's cute in a Beaver Cleaver style of adorability. :)
I think that your comment of what if the genders are switched isn't quite accurate. Girlhood is an experience affected by misogyny because women are an oppressed group. So hiring a man (not affected by misogyny) to talk about media concerned with that experience is more like hiring a white person to talk about, say, art that deals heavily with the experience of racism. Like it's not like you CAN'T hire someone who hasn't experienced it themselves but it would be better to hire someone from the marginalized group in question.
Ahhh this is so true. There is no winning here. Swifties will sift through the garbage and tweets of everyone in a 10 mile radius of TS to somehow just throw hate around. But yeah, I dont see a lot of value in this role.
I’m not sure if this is the right video to ask this question, but I’d like to hear your thoughts on how you’ve sharpened your critique skills, especially over a singer songwriter we both have mutually in our own ways been long time fans of since early days, but as you’ve gotten older and see Taylor more and more as another human, disagree with choices or ideas, still be a big fan after all this time? My question might be long and muddled but I hope this makes sense. It’s something I’ve thought about for while and wonder if you and maybe Madeline think about a well.
I'm glad you could see there is a point to a TS reporter being a woman, she unashamedly chronicles girlhood and womanhood and her songs such as the man and mad woman among others I'm sure have lyrics in them that feel like they're punching me in the face but in a good way, and I don't think a man could ever come close to feeling that or understanding that BUT I don't think that is a necessity for the job. Reporters shouldn't need any connection to or deep understanding of who and what they report on and a difference in gender shouldn't change that either
Interesting. I couldn't get past my immediate reaction of "this TS reporter job sounds like a paid stalker." But it seems so obvious now that it's more an attempt to remain relevant to readers/viewers. Thanks for the insight! Glad I've found your channel to tamper down/remove my rose colored glasses when it comes to our beloved pop star. (:
i claw out of the ground every time swiftologist posts
same
Same
Same
Same. Works night shift tonight but am I staying up to watch? Absolutely
It's giving lwymmd music video
I was a copy editor (for a newspaper) for many years. I can tell you that after I finished editing, some articles were essentially written by me, although I never received any credit. The truth is that so many reporters are actually horrible writers, and the copy editiors are the ones in the trenches making their articles coherernt and polished. I have been required to rewrite as much as 80% of an article - more times than I can count. I recommend being a freelance writer (or content creator) if you're a good journalist so that you are getting the credit (and the $$) for your hard work.
Great insight thank you for sharing! Copy editors are the unsung heroes
Same. Those who have a high-level grasp of comms writing such that they can competently rewrite articles like that are way more valuable than any newspaper now can afford.
You shouldn't do free work at all
Boots on the ground swiftlologist journalism is the only Taylor Swift news I need
Your intellectual approach to what you post and your humor is why you are THE swiftologist report to a lot of us.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
You're giving my inspo for my channel. I hope to be posting soon.
At the risk of inflating your ego, you have ruined all other Taylor Swift creators for me. Luckily, your unnatural work ethic + all things Madeline are enough to keep me fed. Thanks for the content 🥂 (enjoy your break!)
😂 thank you!!
14:30 there is Miranda Prisley-ish quality to his speech hard to replicate, you know "(>_
Channels like yours, Ally's and Emily and Bonny from Chats and Reacts have so much more power than a publication literally no one reads
I wouldn’t necessarily pool them together though. I love all people mentioned but Swiftie UA-camrs are essentially glorified fan girls. Yes they know a shit ton about Taylor and they offer value in their own ways (context on previous eras, analysing songs in depth, general enthusiasm about Taylor’s personality and music etc), but their knowledge goes as far as any other fan. They don’t have insight knowledge on Taylor (inaccessible to fans), they don’t have knowledge on the music business side of things. They offer a safe space rather than added value. I would hope a reporter is able to offer a different perspective. I want someone who is able to liaise between the fan and Taylor. Someone who understand celebrity culture. Someone Taylor can talk to and explain the meaning behind her music, give us really substance. For example, someone who could explain why Taylor teased 1989 tv for so long only to drop it 2 years later - what happened behind the scenes, why does Midnights sounds like the 1989 tv’s vaults? Were they written at the same time? Was Midnights the influence for 1989 TV or vice versa? This reporter might be able to gather attention if they plan their cards right.
I would also add that in my opinion Zach has been able to carve himself a niche within the Swiftie UA-camr space where he is able to stand out as “not just another fan girl”. He’s not just reacting to content, he’s adding real value. Unfortunately though, he doesn’t have inside knowledge on Taylor, just like any other fan out there… There’s a podcast, ‘Every Single Album’, in which Nora and Nathan also add extra value (Nathan was the CEO of Ticketmaster) as they touch a lot of the business side of things, but same thing, they don’t have an in on Taylor… We need an intermediary in my opinion. She’s so famous that she doesn’t even do promo anymore (who can blame her?) - no video or single for 1989 TV, just parading around in restaurants and stadiums lol. The fan base is desperate for some tangible info on Taylor that would add more context to her music.
As a viewer of all 3 channels mentioned here, someone needs to add that they’re all in different levels. Zach is the only content creator that dares voicing a negative opinion. I’m sorry but if a channel’s content is 40% squeaking and 60% praising, that’s of very little value. All in all, thanks Zach for not even considering the job and for continuing to make thoughtful educated and critical content.
@@miliseiffert I agree they fill different roles. If I want critical analysis I'm not going to go to Ally or Em and Bonny, but they make me feel happy cause they're so positive. I agree it's different, but I don't think it's fair to say it's not of value, they just play different roles. Love them all.
Just like I don't need Taylor to be an activist, I don't need chats and reacts to give me critical journalism. Thats why I watch Zach, for the unique perspective he brings
When i saw the job i immediately thought of you, though i instantly could see the "Taylor Swift hater fake fan gets to be an official ts reporter" narrative being thrown around as soon as you would've published your very first work that wasn't just yes man-ing Taylor💀💀💀 also you mentioning Chats and Reacts is my favorite crossover ever. Un abrazo fuerte desde Chile❤
We all know exactlyyyy how that would’ve gone lmao
Our commander-in-chief is WAY OVER-QUALIFIED for that position. I’d much rather support your independent work and get your honest coverage. Also love hearing your insight into the industry ❤
😂 you’re too kind
You are so on point in this entire video Zack! I don’t see how it makes sense to give up your freedom to say what you want while also giving up your ownership of that content? I greatly enjoy your content and I like the fact that what ever you say is coming straight out of your own brain. With the help of your integrity, straightforwardness and nuanced takes I am sure you are going to get much further on your own rather than under the boot of some dying publication! ❤
… ok that is enough fan girling behavior for one day.
Thank you so much ❤❤❤❤
Someone listened to Mother's lessons about owning your own work.
"I am a Taylor Swift reporter" that's all I wanted to hear and I did!
Fellas, if he works for them, the work would belong to them, they'd urge him to report in a way that he might not approve of, they might ask him to report more about her person life which he wouldn't want to on their terms...
The best people in life are free! Let Swiftologist be free.
*personal
"mom, i am a taylor swift reporter"
All I'm gonna say without throwing shade is that I am way happier in the Swiftologist community. The way we all went insane during Buenos Aires N2.
Salute to the Snakes.
Shout out to Chats and Reacts! I literally treat both your channels as talking about Taylor with friends but one is the hyper gushing love side with insightful song breakdowns and then balanced with the "okay now lets be real" and talking about the artistry media side.
I love how you speak so eloquently yet so casually about these things! I have been slowly spiraling into obsession with your channel as I’ve watched the fandom become insane over the last 5 years lol. Pls keep those boots on the ground and Ty for ur service 🩷🫡 (and enjoy the holidays!!)
Wow, thank you!
“The role of a reporter is not to be a role model… What are you talking about?!” 🤣 that got me 😆🤭
Would like to hear that Daylight take b/c I was listening it the other day making this face 🤔 🤨 which 43% more likely on that album than others.
But also, would love some more pop culture hot takes and reporting. I feel like outside of the majors and the devastating news of late, I don’t know what’s going on in pop culture. I think it would be a nice treat for my brain
You are a TS journalist. And an icon 💜
❤️❤️❤️
Watching this straight from reading all about how the site Jezebel was just shuttered and all of the other media layoffs right here at the holidays and yes, YOU SIR, are correct about all of your convictions about the state of journalism today. And to think that was my major in college about a million years ago. Absolutely love and appreciate your work.
Oh wow I didn't know about Jezebel. I'll do what you just did in reverse and go straight from watching this to reading all about that.
jezebel was killed??? wow. i used articles from there for so many papers in high school....
You are definitely smart for keeping your work private. Things get skewed when you have to work under a big corporation.
Zack, I need your commentary on the The Eras Tour Leg on Rio de Janeiro. You are the only Taylor commentator that I trust!
Yess! Youre the Taylor swift reporter that owns your masters and he’s the Taylor swift reporter who’s gonna have to re-record all his masters someday 😂
I have been waiting for you!!! With all this Taylor content!!! Mother is FEEDING us all for the holidays!
🦃 🍴
I think the problem is that no matter how professional he is, people will always disagree on the fact that he should be for this job.
Also I agree that you can’t just hire people based on gender.
I'm a mass communications major and was totally dissuaded from wanting the job. Swifties can be mean. I didn't need that energy in my lide.
Love how a media company thought I would read TS journalism by anyone but the Swiftologist. Love your takes on media dying and can't wait to keep up with your continued coverage.
Before I watch the video: am I the only one to just now realized that the distinctive ‘Is it over now?’ sound sample is a f***ing seagull?! I think it is the only direct reference to such a core part of the 1989 esthetic!
So sorry I have no friends who like Taylor Swift and I had to say it somewhere. Ok on to today’s video! 😊
I love the way you articulate your words. You come across as very intelligent! You also have nice eyes... But I'm here for the great reporting on Taylor!
Thank you so much 🤗
Interesting takes as always Zack! I like the repurposed twitch stream as YT content, especially if it helps you work more efficiently (and proves the point you were making nicely). Something I’ve seen other creators do is, if they realise they want to elaborate on or clarify a point during editing, they insert a short clip of themselves doing that, from a different recording session. I think those type of edits would be a good addition to Twitch videos, both to better communicate your points, but also to make them feel more polished.
This is a great tip Elena! Thank youuuu
100%. Everything is moving to subscription / patron models. That's the reason NYT is still making it as a legacy outlet. They basically cater to an audience now, not unlike many independent outlets.
As someone who’s had a diploma in journalism for the last seven years I say that I agree with every single point you’ve made on the career’s current scenario. It’s heartbreaking.
I love your content because you do give thoughtful criticism and remind us that at the end of the day she’s a human like us. You bring a maturity to your reporting since you’ve been in the fandom for so long. If I wanted “yes man” reporting, I would jump into any Swifttok comment section. Appreciate your videos!
Thank you so much 😊
Thanks for giving more inside informations about being a journalist and how it works. This is very valuable knowledge. Especially for teenagers and young adults who are still not sure about what they might like to do in their future careers. This is kind of stuff that should be taught at school.
hiii! love your videos ❤
I wanted to say also that it would be great if you could make a video about what's happening with taylor's concerts in Brazil.
i second that.
Don’t take this the wrong way, but I don’t listen to Taylor Swift a ton - I think she’s a mega talented singer/songwriter, just some of her music is not for me and that’s ok! But something about her has always been very intriguing to me. You scratch that itch perfectly, I love knowing all the little bits of pop culture lore. And now I can talk to my best friend (who is a hardcore swiftie) about her, so thank you 🥰 keep being you!
Why would TS hire an official reporter? It’s demeaning to other bloggers or UA-camrs.
I don’t trust media, I trust people. You can hold a content creator accountable because people just stop watching. You can’t with media because they have sponsors.
It’s like you say, they just want to hire a Swiftie to write, and to make it public is of course for publicity and for people to engage and read their publications in the future.
Cannot say how happy I am I found your videos and how much I enjoy them. They’ve truly been a highlight of this year ❤
Glad you like them! ❤️❤️
Love when you talk about the journalism industry/reporting!! You are so good at what you do
Thank you so much!!!
I was going to go to sleep... but that will have to wait since the Swiftologist uploaded!
I know that’s right !!
Omg same! Literally in bed, just about to turn my alarm on and saw the notification 😂
really enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this topic; highly enlightening insight into the journaling/media industry
This video looks like it’s a snippet from a stream. If it is, it stands well on its own, I enjoyed watching it. If taking snippets from streams warrants more videos on UA-cam- I am here for it. I don’t watch Twitch, but I do enjoy an occasional Swiftologist video during my lunch at work.
Thank you! Yes it’s a snippet from a stream. There will be another one (much longer and intended for UA-cam) coming on Sunday :)
7:55 I agree, I don’t think we need a special reporter. We have the regular reporters for objectivity, we have the swifties for fandom content, and we have you for the best of both worlds. 🤷♀️
Question: I assume the idea of "if we hire a full-time beat reporter for this gig, Taylor will inevitably give us access and we will become the go-to Swiftie source" is the entire motive for the creation of this gig. Do you think Taylor will purposefully avoid giving him access in the hopes this doesn't inspire other copy-cat companies following the same move and now she's got her own little legion of beat reporters?
This is so well put! ZACK FOR PRESIDENT!!
Dang, it (on Taylors fake accent ), I just woke up and I missed the live grrr but so happy you posted this, bless his heart but I'm glad you do not have that job and you are independent and FREE, imagine if these people owe you and years later we have to wait for (Zacks version) of thing! . I refuse, freedom is hard and it can be a struggle in so many ways but it is worth it and so glad you are with us ! The best people in life are free bishes !! oh, the packing is packing eh? Have a good flight and keep in touch duh
Oh, I love Casey Newton's work, both on Platformer and especially on Hard Fork, as I love his sense of humour. Cool to hear you like him too!
He’s so good!!!
may I suggest another window shopping video with the new merch?
I’m always asking for this but make a video about the idea of separating bodies of art from the artists themselves!!!
I love this idea!
I can't feel like a better analogy then sports reporting might be that flavor that brand of Royal Watching reporter who start from the basis of "monarchy is good and right and the Windsors have the divine right to be the monarchs, and we must protect them, and there billions of dollars and privilege from all the meanies who want to imply divine right of kings isn't a thing." And I don't think that's a good thing. (I as a fan, of course think Taylor Swift has the divine right of divahood, but even I don't think she should be allowed to be a billionaire, or that her crossing the mark is something to be lauded as peak girlbossing)
I feel like the Taylor Swift fandom has confused "Taylor Swift Journalist" with "Taylor Swift Stan" and then got mad when an actual journalist got the job. Alternately, a lot Swifties with a journalism background were probably thinking about the job less as "Taylor Swift Reporter for USA Today" and more as "Tree Paine replacement audition." Which is probably the only place a TS reporter could go, but is, again, not a great mindset to have going in.
Also, even you, who brands yourself as the Swiftologist and has met her more then once, would earn the ire of the huddled masses. The one person with a PR background they quoted wouldn't have been upset if she'd gotten the job, but everyone knows everyone else would found a reason to hate her.
I will continue to get my Taylor Swift commentary from the only person on the internet who has made Taylor Swift their personality without thinking everything she has ever done, or will ever do, is correct and brilliant and morally good: You.
What an insightful comment - and an astute comparison !!! Royal watch is a way better analogy than sports journalist for this position …. Thank you for watching ❤️
I suggested it to another reporter that does pretty rapid response Taylor reporting and reporting on other subjects, because it's a foot in the door for a journalist. A good thing for someone who isn't making a full income yet on Taylor reporting and has considered reporting on other subjects, especially those who would even work outside of entertainment reporting.
You do discussions, deep dives, and lots of longer editorial opinions. It's a freedom you wouldn't have at any publication. You are very established, have a large loyal following, and with so many long videos, the income can't be terrible. Eta Also I love listening to you in the car, your content really doesn't rely on visuals which is a whole other market for you.
Lots of people say they listen in their cars!!! I love that
THANK YOU for mentioning that just because a woman wanted the job, doesn’t mean she should get it. I’m so sick of people getting a job because they’re a certain gender, race, etc. If you are not as qualified as someone else, you shouldn’t get the job. Period. As a woman, I don’t want to get a job just because I’m a woman. That’s insulting. All that says is that I was hired because they HAD to hire me, not because they WANTED to hire me. Rant over lol
Im so glad youre making a video about this. When I saw the announcement, you were the first person I thought of.
I’ll subscribe to the New York Times when it’s a youtube channel honey
LMFAO
I just REwatched your two Taylor/Travis videos about a month ago, even more enjoyable the second time! Can we have your monthly takes on updates while this is still in full madness 🙏🙏 I’m one of your watchers that subscribed if that helps 😅❤
Omg slay!!!! Boots on the ground reporting in hereeeeee 👢🎤
👢 🏠
Fully expect him to leverage this into a puff piece book deal and a recurring reporter gig at one of the primetime entertainment magazines or networks (maybe ET or Extra, but I’m leaning E!). Maybe a column in People/Us Weekly, etc. It’s just a stepping stone to something he sees as bigger.
I love this video persuasive essay and I WILL be subscribing to you on your patreon! ❤❤
Yay! Thank you!
I’ve been dying to hear your perspective on this!
14:28 THISSS!!!! This needs to be pinned to the sky
Totally agree with everything you are saying. What would this reporting provide that we couldn't get elsewhere? I miss the vulnerability of those Rolling Stone pieces Taylor used to do. I think giving Bryan access would add value to the reporting
No, it would be Tree Paine delivering missives, which Tree already does to People, E!, the Sun, and the Daily Mail. Basically his reporting would become like a Taylor Swift PR-sanctioned tabloid report.
I agree with everything you said. My father has been a journalist since before I was born I grew up with the industry and honestly have a very thorough grasp on it. You got everything right.
Having a full time reporter for Taylor made me think of how close we are to her over exposure and eventual decline as a media darling
It’s not a good sign
Watch her disappear a la reputation era-style after the Eras Tour. Nothing to report if you have nothing to see.🤷🏽♀
Hi new subscriber here. I really love your thoughtful, authentic & unbiased reporting on Taylor so I'm gonna ask you to tackle a Taylor topic that is a huge head scratcher to me & that is the never ending Taylor vs Beyonce topic that Swifties seem to be obsessed (especially with the tour's & the tour movies (which both The Eras Tour & The Renaissance World Tour are in my opinion, Both women's best tour's to date) about which I do not understand because Taylor & Beyonce couldn't be more different artists Taylor is a genius songwriter I greatly adore & appreciate her songwriting style while Beyonce has a genius vision & is a powerhouse performer that I am forever in awe of cuz it seems she constantly out does herself with performances & both women have put themselves in their own universe in their craft while everyone it seems argue over who is better & I just don't get it. But thats just me.
Idk why but this is one of my favorite videos of yours. Super interesting perspective!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
When I saw people talking about how they should've hired a women and hating on this guy, I thought he must've made misogynist comments or something similar in the past. Because that would've made some sense, why they would prefer a woman because the guy they chose said awful things about women and was writing about a woman. But it was foolish of me to think swifties would be rational, and when I looked into it and found out it was because he messed up the title of a song, I was floored. Now I find out from you that he didn't even mess up the title, he was misquoted! We gotta stop this behavior every time swifties get cool opportunities or they're gonna stop giving them to us. The media is in our business more than ever, I see random swiftie tweets that aren't even about Taylor, quoted in articles. They were talking about the Holiday merch on Jimmy Fallon. We have to stop sabotaging ourselves because they're watching us.
It allllll comes from a place of hateration!
Oh this was so informal and interesting, cant wait for ur next upload i feel like taylors publicist will have a pretty hard time lmao
My first thought when I saw the initial job posting was that the position wouldn’t last very long. Media is fickle and publishers are struggling so they’ll cut costs where they can. A reporter interviewed me for an article writing about the job post and I never heard anything back. I don’t think she liked my negative views on the job and the fact I said I wouldn’t be applying lol.
I guess that applies w sports media personalities on espn or something, but maybe not necessarily traditional sports writers.
The girl complaining about not getting the job and a man getting it and how it should have gone to a woman and quoting The Man actually pisses me off. As a woman, yes we do sometimes have to work harder to get the same recognition as men do, but I personally never fill out the gender information when asked on job applications because I don't want to be diversity/minority hire for then to reach a certain quota, I want to be hired for the job because I had the best credentials for the job and if a man gets it over me than that's fine because he was probably the most suitable candidate!
That's what's so wrong in my opinion sometimes when we make up excuses like "omg I didn't get hired because I'm a woman and they are a man so of course they were chosen over me!" Okay maybe so, or maybe you just weren't as suitable for the job and should work harder next time! Quick making excuses and take a look at yourself rather than blame everyone else
Piping hot tea spilled here
@@theswiftologist 🫖🫖🫖
Hi Zach, can you please do another unpopular opinions video soon? I love those so much. Also I hope you had a great holiday break.
I was in this stream! It was such a great listen so thank you for posting! ❤
Thanks for listening
It was a huge mistake for Gannett to hire a Swiftie for that job. It’s a conflict of interest. I love Taylor, but if you’re going to have a Swift reporter, I prefer one who has no such baggage. (BTW, Casey Newton is a friend of mine, and I agree with you.)
Always good to see you in the comment section, Walt!!
If you're not getting your Taylor's news from the Swiftologist where are you getting it from? The SMOL GURLPotaytay tiktok reporter?
I was confused why this had 50 views and then I saw it was posted 2 mins ago 💃🏼
I think TS has something to do with the publication to boost the sale of their newspaper or magazine, in return all positive about TS.
I’m interested if future contents includes about Taylor Swift in mass communication and journalism, like how previous works help shape teenager’s identity something like that, for more in academic way.
Zach you rock. I appreciate your reasoning about journalism. Here is the big WOW: you assert that reporters are reporters, not hero role models. That is such a lost principle these days, but so basic and important to journalism. Stan Zach!
Messy boots on the ground swiftologist is my fav and lightens my day all the time 🫡🫡🔥
🫡
k Zach u literally have the best, most thoughtful opinions and I agree wt all of them. ur not afraid of the 12 yr old Swifties trying to cancel everyone for just saying something that isn't massive praise to Taylor swift like Taylor swift is a human she ain't perfect. LOVE LOVE ur vids so glad I found someone who knows what there talking abt keep 👏going👏
Please make a video of your spotify wrapped.
Honestly I like how you can say things like joever and be critical in a loving way and just KIKI! We can’t lose the Kiki lounge boots-on-the-ground-ologist!
😂😂😂
I really enjoy your content, you are capable of having an objective point of view. Very informational and entertaining at the same time. Keep up the great job!
I appreciate that!
"I can then take a recording of this video and make a UA-cam video out of it." Did not catch this Easter Egg off Twitch 🤣
Everytime you post i arrive out of the woods
🌲 🔍
god i love the way you think and are actually reasonable
I’m just not down with the hate for men in this space. Particularly, gay white men, because when all of this was announced, I saw them specifically being singled out on twitter. It’s like you want inclusivity, but only for certain people, but now we’re not inclusive, are we? You’re the only person I follow for TS content because of your background in academia. It makes me interested in hearing your perspective.
There’s only one Taylor Swift journalist 😉❤️
Thoughtful commentary as always! I do think it’s funny though that he listed 3 songs he didn’t like as a basis for him unbiased. 👁️👁️ and if I can name more than 3?
I think they obviously picked a qualified candidate. But, they would have had more fan interest if the candidate they'd chosen was more popular with the fanbase. Maybe they should have narrowed down their field of candidates and had a poll to select the winner?
On an unrelated note...I think the hat it cute, Zach. Remember that I'm an old lady, so it's with love when I say it's cute in a Beaver Cleaver style of adorability. :)
I think that your comment of what if the genders are switched isn't quite accurate. Girlhood is an experience affected by misogyny because women are an oppressed group. So hiring a man (not affected by misogyny) to talk about media concerned with that experience is more like hiring a white person to talk about, say, art that deals heavily with the experience of racism. Like it's not like you CAN'T hire someone who hasn't experienced it themselves but it would be better to hire someone from the marginalized group in question.
Sat my cat down on my lap and made him watch this video with me. Turning him into a swiftologist fan
Yasss slayyy
Need his review asap
i came for the tea and ended with valuable career advice
Loved listening to this, and honestly you are probably already getting compensated much better in your current role anyways
Also as a journalist, fighting for your name to be on the piece YOU wrote and not credited to someone else or having no byline at all. So frustrating.
Ahhh this is so true. There is no winning here. Swifties will sift through the garbage and tweets of everyone in a 10 mile radius of TS to somehow just throw hate around. But yeah, I dont see a lot of value in this role.
Yuuuuup
your skin is perfect
Dear Reader, If it feels like a trap, you’re already in one.
I’m not sure if this is the right video to ask this question, but I’d like to hear your thoughts on how you’ve sharpened your critique skills, especially over a singer songwriter we both have mutually in our own ways been long time fans of since early days, but as you’ve gotten older and see Taylor more and more as another human, disagree with choices or ideas, still be a big fan after all this time? My question might be long and muddled but I hope this makes sense. It’s something I’ve thought about for while and wonder if you and maybe Madeline think about a well.
I'm glad you could see there is a point to a TS reporter being a woman, she unashamedly chronicles girlhood and womanhood and her songs such as the man and mad woman among others I'm sure have lyrics in them that feel like they're punching me in the face but in a good way, and I don't think a man could ever come close to feeling that or understanding that BUT I don't think that is a necessity for the job. Reporters shouldn't need any connection to or deep understanding of who and what they report on and a difference in gender shouldn't change that either
The only one I watch, it’s officially been 24 or so. You know the secrets. ❤️
Interesting. I couldn't get past my immediate reaction of "this TS reporter job sounds like a paid stalker." But it seems so obvious now that it's more an attempt to remain relevant to readers/viewers. Thanks for the insight! Glad I've found your channel to tamper down/remove my rose colored glasses when it comes to our beloved pop star. (:
Thanks for watching!!!
You are my all time favorite Swift reporter!!!! Hands down boots on the ground!!🔥🔥🔥🔥❤️❤️❤️❤️
Wow, thank you!