The Brand Breakdown

Courtney & Michelle
  • 3.9 (47)
  • ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

What goes up, must come down. On The Brand Breakdown, we’re taking a deep dive into some of the biggest brands - from companies to pop stars and everything in between - to examine what helped their brand rise above the fray, how they handled success, what happened when it all went wrong... and whether they’ve been able to - or can - make a comeback.

  1. 10/31/2025

    A Royal Mess: The Problem with (Just) Andrew - Prince Andrew Loses His Royal Titles

    This week, Michelle and Courtney unpack the latest - and most dramatic - turn yet in the Prince Andrew saga. Overnight headlines and a fresh report collide with a decisive move from King Charles: the removal of Andrew’s HRH and prince styles, plus the unwinding of his public identity and living arrangements. The conversation traces how we got here - from the 1986 royal wedding and the Royal Lodge lease, to Jeffrey Epstein, Virginia Giuffre’s allegations and memoir, the disastrous 2019 BBC Newsnight interview, and the strategic calculus behind a monarchy trying to protect its future. Note: Allegations discussed in this episode are reported claims. Where relevant, we use “alleged” and reference civil settlements rather than criminal convictions for clarity. What We CoverThe breaking news: Reports of a forthcoming exposé and why Buckingham Palace may have moved swiftly.Stripping of titles: What it means to remove “HRH” and “Prince,” why it’s unprecedented, and why Parliament comes into play with the Duke of York title.Royal Lodge, explained: The 75-year lease, the private renovation spend, and why eviction surprised royal watchers.Exile to Sandringham: Why that estate matters (private funding, privacy, optics) and what it signals about future visibility.The Epstein timeline: Introductions, allegations, the civil case and settlement, and how the public narrative hardened after Newsnight.The Newsnight interview: The “Pizza Express/Woking” alibi, the “I can’t sweat” claim, and why the tone backfired so profoundly.Fergie’s role: A resurfaced email to Epstein, her public standing, and where she may land now.The bigger picture: Charles’s transitional reign, protecting William’s runway, and the monarchy’s “never complain, never explain” dilemma in the media era.

    46 min

  2. 04/04/2025

    A Royal Mess, Weekly Wrap-up: Meghan Markle's New Netflix Era, Princess Kate's Comeback, & King Charles’ Health Update

    In this episode of The Brand Breakdown, Michelle and Courtney dive into the latest updates from across the pond, examining how the British royal family continues to manage personal challenges and public perception. They break down Kate Middleton’s recent Mother’s Day video and how she’s reshaping her public image with poise and vulnerability during her cancer treatment. Meanwhile, King Charles’ health scare and quick return to duty signal a shift toward more transparency from the monarchy. The conversation shifts to Meghan Markle’s return to the spotlight with her new Netflix show With Love, Meghan, a cozy lifestyle series centered around entertaining and hospitality. But all isn’t rosy in Sussex-land — Courtney and Michelle dig into a potential logo debacle with Meghan’s As Ever brand and a developing story around Prince Harry’s charity, Sentebale, where tensions have led to a mass board resignation. From soft power to hard headlines, the hosts explore how each royal redefines their role in this modern era. Kate Middleton’s public presence is evolving as she navigates cancer treatment — showing quiet strength, compassion, and a more assertive side.King Charles’ brief health scare marked a rare moment of royal transparency, which may set a new tone.Meghan Markle returns to lifestyle media with With Love, Meghan, a Netflix show that leans into her California aesthetic and passion for hosting.Meghan’s “As Ever” brand may be facing a logo controversy, potentially complicating its launch.Prince Harry and the board of Sentebale stepped down amidst reported conflict with the chair, sparking questions about his future philanthropic roles.The royal calendar is heating up as spring and summer bring a packed schedule of engagements — and likely, more headlines. Want to keep up with how public figures and global brands navigate their reputations? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and share The Brand Breakdown!

    42 min

  3. 09/09/2024

    A Royal Mess - Kate Is Done With Chemo!

    Welcome back to another episode of The Brand Breakdown's A Royal Mess. Today we're dropping in with a breaking news episode because The Princess of Wales (Kate Middleton) has announced that she's done with chemo! The Prince & Princess of Wales YouTube | Coronation Weekend Video@KensingtonRoyal - Official Announcement from The Princess of Wales

    23 min

  4. 08/20/2024

    Justin Timberlake - Part 1

    Welcome back to another episode of The Brand Breakdown! This week we're kicking off our newest series - and it's not royal related! We're taking a deep dive into the rise (and fall?) of the Prince of Pop - Justin Timberlake. The first episode in our JT series kicks off with some current events as we discuss his recent DUI arrest in the Hamptons and what that might mean for the world tour (iykyk). Be sure to join us over on social media @TheBrandBreakdown_ and tune in next week as we head back in time to take a look at Justin's meteoric rise - from being a small town boy from Tennesse to getting his big break on the Mickey Mouse Club. Justin Timberlake Judge Admonishes Prosecution at DWI Hearing

    32 min

  5. 08/02/2024

    A Royal Mess, Weekly Wrap-Up: Royals At The Olympics, Harry & Meghan's Next Tour & A Tense Moment

    In this week's episode of the The Brand Breakdown's A Royal Mess Weekly Wrap-Up, Michelle and Courtney dive into the latest royal sightings at the Olympics - or the lack thereof. While European royals are making their presence felt, the British royals seem to be MIA, except for Princess Anne. We also discuss Harry and Meghan's upcoming trip to Colombia and their latest initiatives, as well as some potential tension between the Sussexes during a recent interview. Plus, we touch on the royal family's summer retreat to Balmoral and what might be in store for Invictus 2027 in the UK. Tune in for all this and more as we wrap up the week in royal news! Sources & Links [Research Links]

    30 min

  6. 07/30/2024

    Breaking Down Bridgerton: Seasons 1-3

    From the casting decisions that broke barriers to the intricate storytelling that kept us all hooked, this episode is a must-listen for any Bridgerton fan. We kick things off with a quick recap of seasons one and two, focusing on the beloved characters Simon and Daphne, and the fiery romance of Kate and Anthony. Michelle and Courtney share their thoughts on the casting choices and how they align with the original novels by Julia Quinn. The main event, however, is the discussion of season three, which centers around Colin and Penelope. We delve into the major departures from the books, the introduction of new characters, and the overall shift in storytelling. Did we think it a hit or miss? Tune in to find out. And be sure to let us know what you think on social media!

    59 min

  7. 07/26/2024

    A Royal Mess, Weekly Wrap-Up: Kate's Wimbledon Appearance & Harry's Award Controversy

    Welcome back, everybody! It's been a minute, but so much has happened in royal news. We kick things off with Kate Middleton's surprise appearance at Wimbledon. As the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, her attendance was anticipated but not guaranteed. We discuss her stunning dress, her precious daughter Charlotte, and the criticism Kate faces for attending "fun" events.We explore the speculation around Kate's future engagements, especially in light of her health. Will she pull back or continue full speed ahead? We also touch on the new private secretary role focused on Welsh initiatives.Harry's controversial ESPY award acceptance and the drama that ensued. From not walking the red carpet to leaving early, we break down the public's reaction and the rumors of trouble in Montecito.We celebrate Prince George's 11th birthday and discuss the adorable black-and-white photo released. We also talk about his recent appearance at the Euro Cup with Prince William.The upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics and the royal family's expected involvement. Sadly, Zara Phillips didn't make the GB Olympic team this year.Princess Anne is back on engagements after a recent accident. We discuss her recovery and return to her busy schedule.Prince Harry is set to inherit a significant sum from the Queen Mother as he approaches his 40th birthday. We delve into the financial dynamics between Harry and his brother William.We explore the social dynamics in Montecito, where Harry and Meghan's net worth pales in comparison to their neighbors like Oprah and Tyler Perry. We also discuss their strained relations in both the UK and Hollywood. Thanks so much for tuning in today. We'll be back soon with more royal updates. Don't forget to subscribe and follow us on social media @TheBrandBreakdown_.

    32 min

  8. 06/29/2024

    A Royal Mess, Weekly Wrap Up - Princess Anne Released From Hospital, Prince Harry's New Legal Drama

    Welcome back to another episode of The Brand Breakdown's A Royal Mess Weekly Wrap-Up. This week, we dive into the latest royal news, starting with an update on Princess Anne's recovery after a scary fall, the impact of recent royal health issues on the monarchy's workload, and the surprising award Prince Harry received amidst ongoing legal battles. Princess Anne was admitted to the hospital earlier this week due to a suspected injury from a horse kick. She's now home, but her recovery will impact the royal engagement count significantly.Discussion on the recent health issues affecting King Charles, Princess Catherine, and the implications for the monarchy's public duties.Prince Harry receives the Pat Tillman ESPY award for the Invictus Games, raising questions about the timing and motivation behind the award announcement.Recap of the Trooping the Colour event, including Kate Middleton's appearance and the Sussexes' subtle attempt to stay relevant.Discussion on the Father's Day posts by Prince William and the notable absence of a post from Prince Harry.Prince William's charming moments at the Taylor Swift concert and his interactions with his kids backstage.Speculation on Meghan Markle's upcoming ARO brand launch and its potential success.Announcement of a special bonus episode reviewing the first three seasons of Bridgerton, set to drop on Tuesday. If you're enjoying The Brand Breakdown, be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and follow us on social media @TheBrandBreakdown_. Have a great weekend, and for those of you stateside, happy 4th of July next week!

    27 min
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3.9
out of 5
47 Ratings

About

What goes up, must come down. On The Brand Breakdown, we’re taking a deep dive into some of the biggest brands - from companies to pop stars and everything in between - to examine what helped their brand rise above the fray, how they handled success, what happened when it all went wrong... and whether they’ve been able to - or can - make a comeback.

Information

  • Creator
    Courtney & Michelle
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Brand Breakdown