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Episode 25: The Art of the Holiday Glow

Merry Christmas! Episode 25 lands on December 25, and we’re leaning all the way into the holiday magic.

In this cozy, joy-filled episode, Jen and Rachel explore The Art of the Holiday Glow — those moments that light us up this time of year. From candlelit drinks with Jenni of Her Edit Candles to the absolute magic of Ballet Wichita's The Nutcracker, festive nights at Hopping Gnome’s holiday popup and quiet drives admiring Christmas lights, this episode is a love letter to slowing down and savoring the season.

We talk:

• Creative glow-ups and meaningful conversation
• Ballet magic, live orchestra and community artistry
• Holiday popups, cozy cocktails and good friends
• Quiet glow vs big sparkle energy
• Why noticing what lights you up matters most right now

Pour something warm, get cozy and join us for a Christmas morning chat that feels like twinkle lights for the soul.

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Episode 24: The Art of Anticipation

In this cozy, end-of-year episode, Jen and Rachel explore The Art of Anticipation — that sweet space between now and what you’re looking forward to.

From holiday traditions and shared plans to the anxiety and excitement of a packed December, they talk about why anticipation feels different during the holidays, how shared excitement deepens friendships and what it takes to stay present once the moment finally arrives.

Along the way, they share Wichita favorites, festive plans, thoughtful reflections and a holiday-themed round of This or That.

✨ A feel-good listen for anyone navigating the joy, chaos and magic of the season.

In This Episode:

• Why anticipation feels heavier (and sweeter) at the end of the year
• The difference between joyful anticipation and anxious anticipation
• How shared plans make moments more meaningful
• Staying present once the “thing” finally arrives
• Holiday traditions, popups and local favorites
• A festive round of This or That

🎄 Local Shoutouts:
The Depot, ICT Vinyl Club, Ziggy’s, Hopping Gnome Brewery, Her Edit Candles, Ballet Wichita’s The Nutcracker

🎙️ So THIS Happened… is a storytelling podcast about life, friendship and the moments that shape us — big and small.

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In this special holiday episode, we sit down with Brent McNulty and Annika Wooten of Ballet Wichita to explore the magic, tradition, and behind-the-scenes wonder of their beloved annual production of The Nutcracker presented by Casper Family Foundation — running December 19–21 at Century II.

We dive into everything from:
🎄 Why The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday tradition
🎻 The power of Wichita’s live orchestra
🩰 What 120+ dancers (ages 5–75!) bring to the stage
🎭 Last-minute pivots, costume miracles, and backstage chaos
🌟 How ballet creates community, belonging, and unforgettable memories
Plus: inside details on upcoming productions, the story behind Annika’s growing-stage tears, Brent’s leadership magic, and Wichita’s need for ongoing arts support.

Use BW10 for 10% off Nutcracker tickets at balletwichita.com.
Cheers to holiday magic — we’ll see you at the ballet!

• Ballet Wichita Academy — where dancers of all ages (yes, even adults!) can train in ballet, tap, jazz, and more. Find them on Instagram at @balletwichita and @balletwichitaacademy
• Logan Pachciarz, Artistic Director & choreographer with deep industry connections
• Katie Cohn, Company Director supporting dancer safety and artistic excellence
• Jan, Ballet Wichita’s powerhouse costume creator
• McPherson Opera House, home of the beautifully slanted 26-degree stage
• Century II Performing Arts Center, the beloved home of The Nutcracker
• Oliver’s — hosting Ballet Wichita’s glamorous Opening Night After Party
• Douglas Event Solutions / Douglas Production Group — Brent’s day job and the reason the studio we recorded in looks iconic. Find them on Instagram at @wichitaeventrentals
• Jesse Wooten, official hype husband and honorary So THIS Happened family member
• Nathan, Jen’s son and theater kid who proves student matinees spark lifelong creativity
• All Wichita arts supporters who show up, cheer loudly, and believe in the magic

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