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Some weeks feel louder than others. This one felt deeper.
In Episode 28, Jen and Rachel return to the theme of Becoming — not as a destination, but as a living, breathing season filled with milestones, emotions and moments that quietly change us. From standing ovations and final bows to baby showers, birthdays and songs that truly hit different, this episode captures what it feels like to watch life unfold in real time.
This is an episode about pride and grief coexisting. About looking forward while honoring what’s already behind you. And about realizing that some moments stay with you forever — even while everything else keeps moving.
In This Episode, We Talk About:
- Nathan’s state-winning performance of Alice by Heart and the emotional weight of final bows
- The magic of the Kansas Thespians Festival and finding creative community at a young age
- What it’s like watching your child step fully into their talent and confidence
- Rachel’s weekend in Liberty for Hannah’s baby shower and the beauty of showing up in support
- The quiet power of milestones like baby showers and 18th birthdays
- Why “Becoming” isn’t one big moment — it’s a collection of small, meaningful ones
- Another round of This or That, centered on growth, reflection and emotional seasons
- Lyrics that comfort vs lyrics that confront (and why confrontation often heals more)
- New segment alert! Introducing "It Hits Different (A Swiftie Series)", where Jen and Rachel will discuss a different song each week. This week we talk about Taylor Swift’s Hits Different and how the song applies far beyond romantic breakups
- Jen’s reflection on career grief, identity and letting go of something that once defined her
- Rachel’s perspective on breakups that don’t end in anger — just understanding
- Why some endings are harder because they were once full of hope
- Looking ahead to Water for Elephants, upcoming guests and what’s next for the podcast
This Episode’s Themes:
- Becoming in real time
- Pride, grief and growth
- Creative community
- Milestones that mark us
- Music as reflection and healing
- Letting things evolve
Featured Music Moment:
- “Hits Different” – Taylor Swift
A conversation about breakups that aren’t dramatic, but still linger — and how the song resonates across career changes, identity shifts and personal growth.
What’s Coming Up:
- Behind-the-scenes access at Water for Elephants
- More guest episodes on the horizon
- Continued conversations around creativity, community and becoming
- And plenty more This or That moments (Rachel is currently on a winning streak 👀)
If this episode resonated with you, consider sharing it with someone who’s navigating a milestone of their own. And if you’re in an Era of Becoming yourself — we’re really glad you’re here with us.
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