Nice to Have a Friend
80 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago -Loren and Alyson are here to talk about navigating life's ups and downs while also sharing their insights into post-college life. They'll also occasionally be too passionate about things like Taylor Swift and Disney World! Through every episode, they hope you'll join in on the conversation and are reminded that it's nice to have a friend.
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Episodes
Welcome to Virtual Book Club! Book Club No. 1
March 23, 2021 07:00 - 58 minutes - 40.2 MBWelcome to book club! Instead of picking a new book each month, we're going to host regular virtual fangirl sessions surrounding one of our common interests- books and reading! Tune in to get your reading fix when you're just not able to actually curl up with a good book. We're happy to have you in our virtual book club. M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Loren's Reading Tips + Alyson's 2020 in Books Book Resources We're Obsessed With— Goodreads Book of the Month Books We Mentioned— ...
Welcome to Virtual Book Club! Book Club No. 1
March 23, 2021 07:00 - 58 minutes - 40.2 MBWelcome to book club! Instead of picking a new book each month, we're going to host regular virtual fangirl sessions surrounding one of our common interests- books and reading! Tune in to get your reading fix when you're just not able to actually curl up with a good book. We're happy to have you in our virtual book club. M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Loren's Reading Tips + Alyson's 2020 in Books Book Resources We're Obsessed With— Goodreads Book of the Month Books We Mentioned— ...
Music's Biggest Night! All about the 63rd Annual Grammy's
March 16, 2021 07:00 - 51 minutes - 35.6 MBCome along as we recap music's biggest night— the 63rd Grammy Awards. We have a passion for all-things-award shows, and it was nice to return to a semi-normal once since COVID-19 halted all things normal last year. In this episode, we recap the biggest moments in fashion, performances and awards. M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Grammys Fashion Roundup Spotify Playlist of 2021 Grammy Nominees More about Taylor Swift's historic win + More about Beyonce's win and other winners Dua Lipa...
The Struggle Is Real
March 09, 2021 08:00 - 33 minutes - 23.4 MBIn today's episode, Alyson and Loren share those little, tiny struggles that we can all relate to, or have related to, in one way or another. From tiny inconsequential things to "how am I allowed to be an adult?" realizations, Alyson and Loren recap them all, including those submitted by listeners. Don't forget to head to our Instagram to wish Alyson a happy birthday if you're listening today!! -- Loren M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Our Episode with Amy Beckham "Quote unquote" not "qu...
How to Handle Friendship Breakups
March 02, 2021 08:00 - 49 minutes - 34.3 MBWomp, womp— this episode is all about the friendship breakup(s) that we've all been through. From the dramatic to the just drifted apart, Alyson and Loren share their experiences with friendship breakups, the feelings of not belonging, the reality of convenience friends and their best advice for dealing with friendship breakups. Follow along as Alyson describes the unfortunate reality of knowing when a friend just isn't a friend anymore and as Loren recounts the hard reality of a dramat...
Dating Horror Stories
February 09, 2021 08:00 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MBOh, the woes of dating. We opened up listener submissions for dating horror stories, and you guys delivered. The stories range from painfully embarrassing to downright creepy. Come along as we recap the worst song to have your first kiss to, the painful moment a guy found out spontaneous kisses aren't always welcome and the cheater who tried to juggle FOUR girls at once. Plus, you do not want to miss the backstory behind a potential suitor living in an airstream located in a magician's ...
73 Questions with Alyson + Loren
February 02, 2021 08:00 - 45 minutes - 31.6 MBIf you feel like you don't know Alyson and Loren quite well enough, today's episode should remedy that issue! Today, Alyson and Loren answer the Vogue 73 Questions tag, and you do not want to miss it. Find out why Alyson's brother will never forgive her for a video game mistake, what weird item Loren collected all through childhood and just how passionate Alyson was about her college application process. Also, if you missed our all-call on Instagram, we're currently looking for dating hor...
The Business of Influencing
January 26, 2021 08:00 - 1 hour - 43.1 MBHave you ever wondered how your favorite blogger or Instagram influencer affords his or her lifestyle? Today, Loren shares her experiences as a blogger (and soon-to-be nano-influencer!) and explains the intricate business side of those seemingly simple posts we see online. Loren will give us the inside scoop on how influencers make money, grow, and work in the social media world - going over how 'spon-con' works and how many followers you need to be a 'mega influencer,' all while revealing...
Unpopular Opinions
January 19, 2021 08:00 - 46 minutes - 32 MBUnpopular Opinions are fun to talk about, especially when it's revolving around topics that don't truly matter. Today, Alyson and Loren dive into some of their own most unpopular opinions, as well as the unpopular opinions submitted by listeners! From opinions on America's most popular restaurants, highly-visited tourist destinations, man's best friend and more, we hold nothing back! Make sure to listen, then let us know on our most recent Instagram post if there are any opinions we hold...
What's Pop-pin'?
January 12, 2021 08:00 - 57 minutes - 39.2 MBIn today's episode, Alyson and Loren discuss what's pop-pin' in the world of pop culture for January 2021. From celebrity news, TV events and media news, this episode has it all. Don't miss the wide array of thoughts we have on the Kimye split, the Harry Styles/Olivia Wilde romance rumors, the Bachelor, Bridgerton and more. M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Alyson's media Instagram account One Direction Tattoo Roulette Grammy's Complete Nomination List - Also, Loren misspoke- Fine Line is...
The Best of 2020
January 05, 2021 08:00 - 52 minutes - 36.4 MBIn today's episode, Alyson and Loren recap their best of 2020- the things, people, places and memes that defined one of the craziest years ever. From books, movies and TV, to recipes, products and personal achievements, we share the good from a year that could have been seen as only bad. We also share a few listener submitted "bests" in each category and talk about what word or intentions we're setting for the year ahead. M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Books- Alyson's, The Nightingale, O...
The Virtual Christmas Party!
December 22, 2020 08:00 - 50 minutes - 34.9 MBIn today's episode, Alyson and Loren host Sarai Grace of the Sunny SG for a special virtual Christmas party. This episode will undoubtedly get you in the Christmas spirit! Alyson and Loren spend a few minutes catching up with SG and chatting about the strangeness of Christmas 2020. In the spirit of creating connection during this socially distant holiday season, all things Christmas movies, music, traditions and even desserts are recapped. M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S The Sunny SG 12 Da...
Roommate Horror Stories
December 15, 2020 08:00 - 53 minutes - 37 MBIn today's episode, Alyson and Loren explore and share the many woes that come along living with random roommates. In their first ever listener-submitted story episode, you can expect the typical tension that comes with roommates and the frighteningly bizarre horror stories. From underwear dishcloths and LSD to cockroaches, this episode has it all. This episode definitely left Alyson and Loren wondering how people like those mentioned even exist. This type of episode is completely new fo...
What's the Deal with K-Pop?
December 08, 2020 08:00 - 55 minutes - 38.2 MBIn today's episode, Alyson helps Loren understand the artistic and addicting world of K-Pop! In a general overview that is equal parts interesting and goofy, Alyson explains how K-Pop has gotten to be so big, as well as discussing the business behind the genre's success. Then, your hosts will look at K-Pop culture through one of the biggest groups in the world (BTS!) Which member of BTS is Loren/Alyson most like? How is liking K-Pop probably going to help Alyson get a job (this is not a joke...
The Pop Culture Potluck
December 01, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 42.8 MBWe're so excited to be back fro Season 3 of Nice to Have a Friend!! This episode is extra fun because we're recapping several of the biggest pop culture moments we have personally chatted about in the past month. This type of episode is completely new for us, but we think you'll like it! M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Background on Taylor vs. Scooter drama Taylor Swift's Tweet Taylor Swift's RED ranks 99th on Rolling Stone's List of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time Podcast Episode...
The Fall Opinions Episode
October 27, 2020 07:00 - 56 minutes - 38.6 MBYou showed up to the polls (well, our polls,) and voted for your favorites. The results are now in - which fall staples will be officially approved by #NTHAFPod? Pumpkin Spice Lattes? Haunted Houses? Soup?! Find out which items were approved by both Loren & Alyson, and their friends/listeners! Thank you for all of your support during Season 2 of NTHAF! We will be taking a short break to prepare for Season 3, so make sure to follow along with us on Instagram for updates, fun messages, and th...
Amy Beckham (Agricultural Communications)
October 20, 2020 07:00 - 1 hour - 46.7 MBLoren & Alyson are excited to welcome their last guest of Season 2! Today's guest is Amy Beckham, a whiz at all facets of communications and community building. She currently works for Farm Bureau Tennessee and shares how working in agriculture puts a unique spin on her job. Amy also shares her insights on 'adult' life - like transitioning from student to married with a home and full-time job within a year of graduating! This episode feels like a night in with friends, so get comfy and turn ...
Lottie Smalley (Public Relations + Content Creator/YouTuber)
October 13, 2020 07:00 - 1 hour - 43.8 MBHi everyone, we're Loren & Alyson - welcome back to our podcast! Today, we're joined by PR maven and veteran YouTuber, Lottie Smalley. Lottie explains her growth as a content creator over her 8-year+ stint as a YouTuber, shares her internship experiences in the PR/Communications world, and opens up about ways that college was unlike her expectations. Plus - discover what Alyson had to do to bribe Lottie into riding the Tower of Terror at Disney World! M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Keep Up ...
Andy Brock (Sports Broadcasting + Finance)
October 06, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 46.6 MBIn today's episode, Loren and Alyson are tossing it over to their friend, Andy Brock, for a hit on all things sports, broadcasting, and last-minute career changes. Andy reviews his evolution as a broadcaster, shares his favorite sports moments, and gives his best advice for people trying to get a shot at being on-air. Plus, you'll find out why both Loren and Alyson's parents are a part of Andy's fan club! EPISODE BREAKDOWN: Start - 7:20 --> Catching Up 7:20 - 57:11 --> Our Chat with Andy 57...
Sarai Grace Smith (Influencer + Content Creator)
September 29, 2020 08:00 - 1 hour - 44.2 MBMy oh my, what a wonderful day! Why? Because Loren & Alyson are joined by Sarai Grace Smith of TheSunnySG to talk about the Disney College Program, career changes (thanks COVID!), and the choice to pursue a career as a full-time influencer + content creator based in Orlando, Florida. Plus, SG shares how TikTok contributed to her growth during quarantine and gives tips for anyone looking to pursue their dreams as a content creator. M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Keep Up with Sarai Grace (AK...
Katie Matthews (PR + Marketing)
September 22, 2020 08:00 - 50 minutes - 34.5 MBWelcome to Season Two - a season dedicated to discussing career paths and future aspirations with our friends! Today, Loren & Alyson welcome their first guest - mutual friend Katie! Katie currently works in PR and shares the experiences that led her to her first full-time job. She'll also discuss her hopes to work in PR for higher education, gives advice to her past-self, and explains the origin stories behind meeting both of your co-hosts. M - E - N - T - I - O - N - S Keep Up with Katie...
~ Season 2 Trailer ~
September 15, 2020 08:00 - 13 minutes - 9.43 MBSeason 1 is over - so what's next? Loren & Alyson are sitting down on the couch to let you know what to expect for their first season of guest stars! Listen to find out what this season is about, as well as what to expect. They'll see you back here next Tuesday with the first official episode of Season 2! FOLLOW THE PODCAST: On Instagram, @NiceToHaveAFriendPod At Our Website, www.NiceToHaveAFriend.com FOLLOW ALYSON: Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads FOLLOW LOREN: Blog | Instagra...
The Enneagram Episode!
September 08, 2020 08:00 - 49 minutes - 33.8 MBToday, Alyson and Loren sit down to explain the sometimes elusive topic, the Enneagram! They'll give a general overview of the personality typing system, while also discussing how it has changed and affected their personal lives. They'll also try to categorize fictional characters & celebrities to give examples for each type, (even though they actively beg you not to do the same to your friends & family!!) Whether you're a casual Enneagram observer, a die-hard enthusiast, or a complete skept...
the folklore freakout
September 04, 2020 08:00 - 52 minutes - 36.1 MBPut on your cardigans and get ready to discuss Taylor Swift’s surprise 8th album - folklore! Get ready for firsthand experience of Loren’s Taylor obsession along with our conversation about lyrics, favorite songs, and rating Taylor’s albums. ~ THINGS WE MENTIONED + FUN T-SWIZZLE STUFF ~ Listen to folklore by Taylor Swift Taylor Swift Song Sorter (via jesseepinkman) A Good Tweet (via @taystellar) Alyson's Random Fact Links: Boosts in streaming (via Rolling Stone) Taylor's seventh No....
The COVID Time Capsule
September 01, 2020 08:00 - 54 minutes - 37.6 MBIn today's episode, Loren & Alyson take a step back to observe the timeline of COVID-19. They'll discuss some of the good things that came out of this unprecedented time of social distancing, and will miraculously only use the phrase 'a new normal' once. There will be honest check-ins, as well as reminiscing over whipped coffee, banana bread, & TikTok. ~ THINGS WE MENTIONED ~ The WHO's COVID Timeline Parks and Rec reunion special John Krasinski starts 'Some Good News' on YouTube Whipped...
Lifestyle Changes
August 25, 2020 08:00 - 52 minutes - 36.2 MBIn today's episode, Loren and Alyson talk about lifestyle changes, including their styles (or lack thereof,) their preferred entertainment sources, and their journeys with health and fitness. There will be references to Joe Exotic, YouTubers, and a fight between your co-hosts over ESPN's 'The Last Dance' Documentary series. ~ THINGS WE MENTIONED ~ Half Baked Harvest Morgan Harper Nichols 'Capsule wardrobes' explained Lottie Smalley's YouTube Channel (Alyson's friend from High School!) ...
Introductions + Seasons of Change
August 18, 2020 08:00 - 44 minutes - 30.5 MBIT'S HERE! Welcome to Nice to Have a Friend! In this episode, you'll get to know your co-hosts: Loren and Alyson, get a preview into what the first season is all about, and discover why Loren needed to fact check Alyson about Harry Potter trivia. FOLLOW THE PODCAST: On Instagram, @NiceToHaveAFriendPod At Our Website, www.NiceToHaveAFriend.com FOLLOW ALYSON: Blog | Instagram | Twitter FOLLOW LOREN: Blog | Instagram | Twitter THANKS TO OUR FRIENDS: @KatieCurated: blogger, graphic de...
Changing Our Expectations
August 18, 2020 08:00 - 48 minutes - 33.6 MBWe all place expectations on things: our personal lives, our careers, our wedding day - even our Instagram feeds! Today, Loren and Alyson evaluate what they expected in several areas of their lives, and discuss how those expectations have changed. FOLLOW THE PODCAST: On Instagram, @NiceToHaveAFriendPod At Our Website, www.NiceToHaveAFriend.com FOLLOW ALYSON: Blog | Instagram | Twitter FOLLOW LOREN: Blog | Instagram | Twitter THANKS TO OUR FRIENDS: @KatieCurated: blogger, graphic d...
Our Biggest Changes in College
August 18, 2020 08:00 - 54 minutes - 37.7 MBIn this episode, Loren and Alyson talk about the biggest ways they noticed change throughout their college experiences. You'll hear them discuss how their friendships changed in college, how faith played a part in their college experience, and how they settled into their career paths. ~ THINGS WE MENTIONED ~ In the Knoxville area and looking for a church home? Sevier Heights Website | Instagram The Walk Website (AKA our College Ministry) | Instagram Goodreads links to our book suggest...
Episode 0 - Welcome!
August 03, 2020 15:00 - 1 minute - 880 KBLoren and Alyson are here to talk about navigating life's ups and downs while also sharing their insights into post-college life. They'll also occasionally be too passionate about things like Taylor Swift and Disney World! Check out this trailer to get a glimpse into the upcoming first season of Nice to Have a Friend!