So THIS Happened...

Jen Cole and Rachel Chappelle
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“So THIS Happened…” is the podcast version of catching up with your most unfiltered friend over wine. Each week, Jen and Rachel dive into personal mishaps, past memories, local happenings, weird habits, and whatever else pops up — including the occasional celebrity headline we just have to talk about. It’s casual, it’s chaotic, and it’s all real.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Episode 40 : Champagne & '22' Energy

    Send us Fan Mail We did something a little… unexpected this time. We went LIVE. 🎥✨   Before Episode 39 even dropped (lol), we decided to test new software, hit “go live” across platforms, and just see what happens. And honestly? It felt very on-brand. Because this episode is all about stepping into the moment, embracing a little chaos, and letting the night unfold exactly as it’s meant to. ✨ What We’re Getting Into: Our first-ever LIVE podcast recording (across THREE platforms 😳) Rouge: The Heartspring Gala recap—an unforgettable night of impact and artistry Jen’s birthday weekend (aka… beautifully unhinged in the best way) What we’re most excited for with Ballet Wichita’s Breaking Barriers It Hits Different: Taylor Swift’s “22” (and what it actually means now) 🎲 This or That: Main Character Energy Edition We kicked things off with a live round of This or That… and somehow ended in a tie (which hasn’t happened in a while 👀) A few favorites: Gala glam vs cozy chaos Red carpet entrance vs slipping in unnoticed Planned outfit vs last-minute magic Group photos vs candid chaos Statement piece vs understated chic Final verdict:  We’re cozy chaos girls… with a deep appreciation for a glam moment. 💃 Rouge: The Heartspring Gala An absolute moment. From the lighting to the performances to the overall energy, this night delivered: Red-lit, immersive atmosphere Aerial performers + dancers transforming the space A packed dance floor (which is no small feat 👏) A live auction that had the entire room locked in And most importantly… ✨ Nearly $1 million raised for Heartspring The stories shared throughout the night were powerful, emotional, and deeply human—a reminder that behind all the beauty and celebration is life-changing work. 🎂 Birthday Weekend Shenanigans Where do we even begin… This weekend had: A content re-do that turned out even better than planned Nails, hair, and full glam prep (a full-day production) Dancing the night away at Brickyard with A Band in Kansas Barefoot moments (because… heels 😅) Surprise run-ins with friends that made the night even more fun And then… Sunday said: we’re not done yet. Royals game + Uno battles (with aggressive smack talk) Patio hangs at Hopping Gnome A full-circle moment watching Jen’s boys perform (cue emotional damage 😭💛) The takeaway:  Exhausting. Joyful. Completely worth it. 🩰 What’s Next: Breaking Barriers We’re heading back to the B-29 Doc Hangar for Ballet Wichita’s Breaking Barriers—and based on what we’ve already seen… We know: It’s going to be powerful It’s going to be emotional It’s going to be one of those shared experiences that sticks with you 🎶 It Hits Different: “22” – Taylor Swift This one hit in two different ways: Rachel’s take: Fun, girly, carefree energy… until it takes a turn into “bad decisions but make it fun” territory 😅 Jen’s take: Pure nostalgia Late nights, laughter, and that “nothing matters except this moment” feeling Big realization:  Feeling “22” isn’t about age—it’s about energy. 🥂 The Moment That Matters We closed on something that really stuck: Being in the moment is a balance. Yes, we capture content.  Yes, we document. But the real magic? ✨ Putting the phone down  ✨ Feeling it in real time  ✨ Letting the moment actually be yours 📣 Let’s Keep It Going Got a Taylor Swift song for Rachel? Send it our way 🎶 Watched the live? Tell us how it felt Want more of this chaos? Same 😌 And as always… ✨ Be in the moment  🥂 Chee Support the show

    43 min

  2. 2 APR

    Episode 39: Boots, Bingo and Blood Cancer Awareness

    Send us Fan Mail This week on So THIS Happened, we’re recording live from Home2 Suites in Delano with the incredible Jamie Seipel, Director of Sales for Home2 Suites Delano and 2026 Visionary of the Year candidate for Blood Cancer United. What starts as a conversation about fundraising quickly becomes something much deeper—about saying yes before you feel ready, stepping into something bigger than yourself, and discovering just how powerful community can be when it rallies around a cause. For Jen, this episode is especially meaningful—a full-circle moment reflecting on her own candidacy back in 2016… and what it looks like to now sit across from someone stepping into that same journey. And yes… we also talk about: Bitchy Bingo Adult Prom (with DJ Panda 💃) A dunk tank situation that feels mildly unhinged (in the best way) 💃 In This Episode, We Cover: Jamie’s journey from Visit Wichita to Home2 Suites Delano What drew her to Blood Cancer United—and why she said yes The emotional moment it became real The unexpected confidence that comes from asking for support The power of community (and Wichita showing UP) Behind-the-scenes of planning multiple fundraising events How this experience is already changing her Why this campaign is about so much more than fundraising 🎲 This or That: Fundraising Edition We kick things off with a themed round of This or That, including: Silent auction vs. live auction chaos Bingo night vs. trivia night Boots & Buckles vs. Adult Prom Plan the event vs. show up and enjoy Spoiler: strong opinions were formed… and defended 😄 🎉 Jamie’s Event Lineup (aka The Tour 👏) Jamie is not playing small—she’s bringing the entire city along for the ride. Here’s what’s coming up: ⚾ Baseball Game (April 3)  Featuring a powerful first pitch moment from Honor Hero Zach 🎱 Bitchy Bingo (April 9)  A little sass, a lot of fun 🤠 Boots & Buckles @ WAVE (April 19)  Country vibes, live music, and big energy 🏃‍♀️ Run for Blood Cancer (April 25)  5K + 1-mile fun run at Exploration Place 🧠 Wichita-Themed Trivia Night (April 30)  Come for the fun, stay for the unexpected facts 🍷 Adult Prom @ The Boathouse (May 14)  90s/2000s theme + DJ Panda = absolute chaos (the good kind) 💦 Poker Run + Dunk Tank (May)  Dive bar crawl meets “who are we dunking today?” energy ❤️ Why This Matters Blood Cancer United supports patients and families right here in Wichita—and every dollar raised stays local. Last year alone: 💰 $264,000 raised by Visionary candidates 💰 Over $500,000 given back to local families This isn’t just about events.  It’s about impact, advocacy, and showing up when it matters most. 🙌 How You Can Get Involved Attend an event Donate directly to Jamie’s campaign Share with your network Show up however you can Because every little bit truly does count. 🥂 Favorite Moment “I thought people liked me… but would they actually show up for me?”  Turns out… they would. And they did. ✨ Closing Thoughts This episode is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do…  is say yes before you feel ready. Because you never know what kind of impact is waiting on the other side. Support the show

    47 min

  3. 25 MAR

    Episode 38 : Behind the Glam - Stories That Matter

    Send us Fan Mail 🥂 In This Episode This week, we’re stepping into the spotlight and pulling back the curtain… Jen shares her experience seeing Hadestown (and why it stuck with her long after the final note)We dive into Heartspring’s mission ahead of the Rouge Gala—and why this organization is so specialA sneak peek at Ballet Wichita’s Breaking BarriersHits Different: Getaway Car by Taylor SwiftPlus: a This or That that turns surprisingly introspective (because… of course it does)🎭 Under the Lights: Hadestown Review Jen takes us inside Broadway in Wichita’s production of Hadestown—and WOW. From haunting vocals to a story rooted in mythology, love, and sacrifice, this one hit deep. Highlights: A fully sung-through production (no dialogue, all music)Standout performances (Hermes as narrator stole the show)Themes of love, trust, and fate that leave room for interpretationAnd maybe the most special part?  Sharing the experience with her mom—and realizing how powerful live theater can be when it means something. ❤️ Beyond the Spotlight: Heartspring + Rouge Gala We’re honored to be guests at the upcoming Heartspring Rouge Gala, and after Jen’s behind-the-scenes tour, this organization left a lasting impression. What makes Heartspring so impactful: Serving children with autism and developmental needsA whole-child approach (education, therapy, life skills)Supporting families—not just individualsDrawing families from across the country to WichitaFrom classrooms to residential living spaces, it’s not just care—it’s community. As we said in the episode: It’s easy to show up for the sparkle… but what stays with you is the purpose behind it. 🩰 What’s Next on Stage: Ballet Wichita Next up, we’re heading to the same venue (hello full-circle moment 👀) for: Breaking Barriers A powerful performance inspired by the Dockum Sit-In, blending history, movement, and emotion. 📍 B-29 Doc Hangar  📅 April 3 & 4 We already know this one is going to be feel-it-in-your-chest kind of moving. 🚗 Hits Different: Getaway Car This week’s song: Getaway Car by Taylor Swift And WOW… this conversation went places. We talked about: Fast, fiery relationships that feel electric… but don’t lastBeing someone’s escape—and realizing they were yours tooThe difference between love, timing, and emotional survivalThe takeaway? Sometimes the “getaway car” isn’t the destination… It’s just the thing that helps you move forward. ✨ Final Thoughts This episode is all about contrast: 🎭 Being seen vs. figuring it out  ✨ Glamour vs. meaning  ❤️ Performance vs. purpose Some moments are meant for the spotlight… and some quietly shape who we become. 🥂 Next Episode Tease We’re joined by Jamie Seipel of Blood Cancer United (formerly LLS) to talk about her Visionary of the Year campaign and how Wichita is showing up for a powerful cause. Support the show

    1 hr

  4. 19 MAR

    Episode 37 : Big Ideas, Midwest Energy

    Send us Fan Mail 🍷 Episode Summary What if the next big idea didn’t come from Silicon Valley… but from right here in Wichita? In this episode, we sit down with Tracy Hoover, founder of Groover Labs, to talk about what it really takes to build something from the ground up and why you might not have to leave home to do it. From her background in big tech to creating a space where founders, developers, and creatives can collide and collaborate, Tracy shares how Groover Labs is helping shape the future of innovation in Kansas. We explore the realities of entrepreneurship, the power of being surrounded by other builders, and the idea that sometimes what a city needs most isn’t more talent… it’s a place for that talent to come together. Because big ideas? They’re not limited by geography. They’re just waiting for the right environment to grow. 🥂 In This Episode Tracy’s journey from Hewlett-Packard and startup leadership to founding Groover LabsThe moment she realized Wichita needed a physical hub for builders and foundersWhat Groover Labs actually is (and why it’s so much more than coworking)The role of space, tools, and proximity in accelerating ideasWhy startups don’t just need funding… they need structure and supportInside the ACCEL-KS program and how it’s helping founders across KansasReal examples of builders creating, prototyping, and refining ideas at GrooverThe truth about Midwest talent and why people are choosing to stayHow community fuels innovation in ways you can’t replicate alone 💡 Key Takeaways You don’t have to leave to build something big.  The narrative that success only exists on the coasts is shifting and Wichita is part of that story. Ideas need more than inspiration. They need infrastructure.  Groover Labs exists to give founders a place to actually build, not just brainstorm. Funding helps, but guidance changes everything.  Programs like ACCEL-KS show that mentorship, structure, and feedback can be just as valuable as capital. Community is the multiplier.  There’s something powerful about being surrounded by people who are also in the messy, in-progress stage of building. 🔥 Memorable Moments The realization that Wichita didn’t lack talent… it lacked a central place for that talent to connectFounders evolving from modifying products to creating original prototypesThe idea that even founders who didn’t receive funding still gained clarity and directionThe energy inside Groover Labs when multiple builders are working and collaborating at the same time 🔗 Resources + Links Groover Labs — learn more, explore membership, and get involvedACCEL-KS — supporting early-stage founders across Kansas 🍷 Join the Conversation Have you ever felt like you had to leave your city to chase something bigger? Or have you seen something incredible being built right where you are? We’d love to hear your story. Come join the conversation with us. ⭐️ If You Loved This Episode… Share it with a friend, tag us on social, or leave a review. It helps more people discover conversations like this one. And as always… So THIS Happened. 🍷✨ Support the show

    48 min

  5. 12 MAR

    Episode 36 : Sequins Are Forever

    Send us Fan Mail Cheers to Episode 36! This week’s episode unexpectedly turned into a celebration of live performance, unforgettable nights out and the artists who shape the soundtrack of our lives. Jen and Rachel recap an electric night at Broadway in Wichita’s production of STOMP, explore the glamour and chaos of showbiz in Rachel’s Hits Different song assignment, and share memories of legendary local musician Jenny Wood, whose influence on the Wichita music scene will never be forgotten. From rhythm-filled stages to sequined showgirl energy to heartfelt reflections on the power of music and community, this episode is a reminder that the show must go on. In This Episode🎭 Broadway in Wichita: STOMP Jen and Rachel dive into their experience seeing STOMP, the iconic percussion performance that transforms everyday objects into music. They talk about: The incredible creativity of the productionTrash can choreography and inventive rhythmsThe humor and audience interaction that made the show unforgettableJen’s longtime fascination with STOMP after seeing it referenced in her childhood dance studio The result? A standing ovation and a renewed appreciation for the magic of live performance. 🎶 Hits Different: Life of a Showgirl Rachel’s song assignment this week brings the glamour. The two unpack “Life of a Showgirl” by Taylor Swift feat. Sabrina Carpenter, exploring themes of: Performance and personaThe sparkle and chaos behind showbizWhy showgirl energy feels perfectly aligned with the spirit of this episodeAnd of course, the conversation leads to one important realization: Sequins are forever. 💚 Honoring Wichita Musician Jenny Wood The episode also includes a heartfelt tribute to Jenny Wood, a beloved Wichita singer-songwriter who recently passed away. Jen shares memories of: Seeing Jenny perform years ago in Wichita’s local music sceneJenny’s powerful song “I Am Not Scared” and the way she brought children on stage to sing it with her Interviewing Jenny in 2018 ahead of the release of her album Truth Has Legs Jenny’s album launch event at the Crown Uptown TheatreJenny wasn’t just a performer. She was an artist who lifted others up, especially young people, and helped shape the Wichita music community. At the end of the episode, we share a video of Jenny performing live in Wichita. Rest in peace, Jenny Wood. Your music lives on. 🍀 Wichita Life UpdatesJen and Rachel also catch up on what’s been happening around Wichita this week: A night of trivia with friendsCoffee Breaks at Goldfinch CoffeeGetting ready for the legendary Delano St. Patrick’s Day parade and celebrations If you’re celebrating in Wichita this weekend… you just might spot them in green. 🎙️ What’s Coming NextNext episode, Jen and Rachel will be recording Episode 37 at Groover Labs with guest Tracy. Expect more stories, more laughs and more local adventures.  🔔 Follow & ListenFollow So THIS Happened… everywhere you listen to podcasts and on social: Instagram YouTube Facebook And if you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, share it with a friend and leave us a review. 🥂 Cheers to unforgettable nights, live music and the moment Support the show

    1hr 5min

  6. 5 MAR

    Episode 35 : Spirited Ambition

    Send us Fan Mail This week, we recorded from the upstairs loft at The Depot (shoutout to Jeff and those $10 Sunday pizzas 🙌) and welcomed Kiah and Bella of Roaming Spirits Bar for a conversation about building a business with boldness, heart and just the right amount of controlled chaos. From homemade syrups to espresso martinis with tequila (yes, tequila), this episode is about more than cocktails. It’s about showing up, taking risks and choosing ambition on purpose. We’re sipping blueberry lavender lemonade and a cinnamon espresso martini while talking about: Starting a mobile bartending business on a literal TikTok signMoving states to chase a dreamBeing women-owned in the hospitality industryThe momentum shift from 5 events in a year… to 4 in one monthWhy cost-effective doesn’t mean cookie-cutterThe real value of investing in experienceThis one is fun, inspiring and just a little bit unhinged in the best way. 💡 How Roaming Spirits Started A cruise.  A conversation about hating their jobs.  A TikTok that said “start a mobile bartending business.”  A house that “just happened” to become available. Bella packed up a U-Haul.  Kiah leaned into marketing.  They built their bar together. And just like that… Roaming Spirits was born. 👯‍♀️ Women-Owned & Unapologetic We talk about: What it’s like being women business owners in a male-dominated industryThe difference between being the face of a bar… and owning itCommunity over competitionSupporting other local women-owned businesses (Dress Gallery, Set Theory Marketing, Crumbs by Jaz, Vu Events and more)Their approach is collaborative, transparent and rooted in lifting others up. 📈 The March Momentum Last year: 5 total events. This March alone: 4 bookings. Including: A Vietnamese tea engagement ceremonyA bridal event with Dress GalleryA branding re-launch with custom rose espresso martinisA storefront celebration for Set Theory MarketingMomentum feels exciting… and a little overwhelming. But they’re embracing it. 🍹 What Makes Them Different Roaming Spirits: Curates signature cocktails around the clientProvides custom alcohol lists so clients aren’t overwhelmedMakes all syrups in-houseOffers open bar packages with no hidden feesAllows clients to keep leftover alcoholTheir philosophy: The cost of not investing in experience? A cookie-cutter event.And they are not here for cookie-cutter. ❤️ Real Talk Moments We close with reflections on: Not apologizing for being loudAllowing yourself to ask questions instead of pretending to know everythingShowing up for your business partner on hard daysBuilding something that feels like alignment, not obligationThis episode is proof that ambition doesn’t have to be harsh. It can be spirited. 🎭 What’s Coming Up We’re seeing STOMP with Broadway in Wichita (March 4!)Tracy from Groover Labs joins us later this monthAnd yes… we’re already planning a Roaming Spirits content day collab 📲 Connect with Roaming Spirits Follow them on Instagram: @roaming.spiritsbar Check out their website for bookings and upcoming merch. Support the show

    55 min

  7. 26 FEB

    Episode 34 : Uncorked and 30

    Send us Fan Mail Cheers to 30, messy growth and being slightly unhinged on purpose Rachel turns 30 this week and we are absolutely uncorking for it. In this episode, we celebrate stepping into a new decade with clarity, confidence and just the right amount of chaos. We talk about lessons from our twenties, why boundaries hit different in your thirties and how “messy” might actually be the most polished thing about you. We also dive into our newly launched merch store (!!!), why 10% of our Messy is My Polish line supports Ballet Wichita and why building something bold requires being brave enough to start imperfectly. 🥂 Birthday Energy: Rachel at 30 Rachel reflects on: The growth between early 20s and nowWhy independence and strong friendships changed everythingLearning boundaries (even if it took a minute)Choosing clarity over chaosWhy 30 feels grounded, not scaryWe also share a very real-life moment from Galentine’s Night involving: A persistent strangerThree strategic “boops”And the art of handling awkwardness with humor instead of tears👕 Merch Launch: From Slightly Unhinged to Fully Branded We officially launched our merch store and talked through the heart behind both designs: 🍷 Uncorked and Slightly Unhinged This one is pure friendship energy. Inspired by how our wine nights started this podcastA nod to the freedom of being fully yourselfA celebration of boldness, silliness and spontaneityBecause sometimes being uncorked is the only way to start something new. 💄 Messy is My Polish This phrase was born during a “This or That” moment and immediately stuck.We talk about: Why perfection is overratedWhy messy growth is still growthHow every polished performance (hello Ballet Wichita) requires unseen mess behind the scenesWhy 10% of profits from this line go to Ballet WichitaYou cannot get polished without getting messy first.🎲 This or That: 30 Edition We played a birthday-themed round including: Champagne toast vs tequila shotCrying in public vs rage journalingHeels vs sneakersBold lipstick vs bare faceOverdressed vs underdressedSpoiler:  We would absolutely rage journal before crying in public. Every time. 💎 Hits Different: “Opalite” by Taylor Swift This week’s Taylor Swift deep dive focuses on “Opalite” from Life of a Showgirl. Rachel shares: Why this is her favorite song from the album so farThe symbolism of Opal and OnyxHow the lyrics reflect serenity, growth and emotional clarityWhy this song feels uplifting and groundedJen reflects on: The contrast between heartbreak albums and this new eraChoosing presence over performance in relationshipsThe beauty of love that feels steady instead of chaoticWe love a poetic queen. 🔮 What’s Coming Next We’re excited to welcome: Kiah and Bella from Roaming Spirits Bar  Women building bold businesses and shaking up the scene.Tracy from Groover Labs  Community building, entrepreneurship and creative collaboration.If you’d like to be a guest on So THIS Happened, reach out. We love spotlighting bold stories and brave beginnings. Support the show

    45 min

  8. 19 FEB

    Episode 33: Built With Love (And a DJ Booth)

    Send us Fan Mail In this heart-forward episode of So THIS Happened…, Jen and Rachel sit down with longtime friend and event planner extraordinaire Jovana Vu at GROW Plant Bar to talk about collaboration, trust and what it really means to build something with the people you love. From planning Jen’s wedding to launching Vu Events as a brand, Jovana shares how working with intention — not hustle — has shaped her business, her marriage and her future. This one is about partnership done right. ✨ 🌿 In This Episode, We Talk About: How Vu Events began (and why a terrible wedding experience sparked it) Why collaboration has always been Jovana’s secret sauce The power of referrals and word-of-mouth growth Working in hospitality to learn the inner workings of events Why trusting your vendors is non-negotiable Protecting your relationship while building a business together Tony joining Vu Events with DJ + Karaoke services 🎤 The importance of boundaries to prevent burnout Choosing the people you can “do the hard things with” What makes the perfect event unforgettable ✨ Standout Moments “Choose the people you can do the hard things with.”  A reminder that collaboration isn’t about ease — it’s about trust under pressure. From Planning to the Party.  Vu Events is expanding to offer DJ services and karaoke alongside event planning — a seamless experience from timeline to dance floor. The Echo.  Every event leaves an echo.  What does it sound like? What does it feel like? What memory lingers after the lights go down? That concept alone is worth a re-listen. 🎉 Rapid-Fire Recap Collaboration = Creativity Working with your partner = Peace The perfect event night = An Echo 🪩 About Our Guest Jovana Vu Founder of Vu Event Planning, Jovana has been in the event world for nearly 20 years. Known for her calm presence, strong vendor relationships and intentional approach, she specializes in events that feel deeply personal and beautifully executed. Now expanding into DJ and karaoke services alongside her husband Tony, Vu Events is entering a new era — and we are here for it. 🔗 Website: https://www.vueventplanning.com/  📱 Follow: @vueventplanning 💫 Also Mentioned Digital Wichita The Tallgrass Film Festival Ballet Wichita (10% of profits from “Messy Is My Polish” merch line supports them 💛) Here’s the link: https://www.bonfire.com/messy-is-my-polished/  👕 Merch Shoutout We’re wearing our “Uncorked & Slightly Unhinged” and “Messy Is My Polish” pieces in this episode. Support the pod. Support local arts. Stay a little unhinged. Grab yours here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/so-this-happened-store/  Support the show

    56 min
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About

“So THIS Happened…” is the podcast version of catching up with your most unfiltered friend over wine. Each week, Jen and Rachel dive into personal mishaps, past memories, local happenings, weird habits, and whatever else pops up — including the occasional celebrity headline we just have to talk about. It’s casual, it’s chaotic, and it’s all real.

Information

  • Creator
    Jen Cole and Rachel Chappelle
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 So THIS Happened...
  • Show Website
    So THIS Happened...