Bachelor Happy Hour - Zach & Rachel: Meant to Be?

Episode Date: July 26, 2022

Becca and Michelle are joined by Zach this week for a heartfelt conversation about his incredible date with Rachel and why he feels their connection was meant to be!  Plus, Becca and Michelle discuss Jacob and Hayden’s controversial comments toward Gabby, and Ashley Cooke spills the tea on the one-on-one elimination that shocked us all. Don’t forget to rate and subscribe so you never miss an episode. See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is an I-Heart podcast. I'm Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, host of the psychology podcast. Here's a clip from an upcoming conversation about how to be a better you. When you think about emotion regulation, you're not going to choose an adaptive strategy which is more effortful to use unless you think there's a good outcome. Avoidance is easier. Ignoring is easier. Denials easier.

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Oh my God, perfect. And want to hear people with mental illness, psychobabble. Yes, yes. Then Emergency Intercom is the podcast for you. Open your free iHeartRadio app, search emergency internetcom, and listen now. I just normally do straight stand-up, but this is a bit different. What do you get when a true crime producer walks into a comedy club? Answer, a new podcast called Wisecrack,

where a comedian finds himself at the center of a chilling true crime story. Does anyone know what show they've come to see? It's a story. It's about the scariest night of my life. This is Wisecrack, available now. Listen to Wisecrack on the IHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Hello, that's your happy hour. We're back again this week with another recap of, what is this now? Episode 3, Michelle? Yes, actually, wow, this is going fast. It is. Well, I feel like I was going to say it's already like episode four or five, but we're still fresh. And I think the like weirdness of it all is because like we've had.

two seasons combined in one that's now kind of splitting. So I'm like, what week are we? How many guys do we have left? I'm all over the board here. You're not the only one. I'm so happy to be back with you. Last week, we had a really good chat with Nate. And now today, I'm excited because we are getting to talk to the man who swept Rachel off her feet this week, Zach. Plus, we also get to talk to Ashley Cook, and she's here to tell us about her performance on the show, how that went, and her insider perspective on what happened when Rachel showed up alone. Yeah, I mean, and for all of the listeners, Ashley Cook, she was actually one of the performers last week, which I know feels like forever ago. So we're going to bring her on. I'm so excited

to chat with both her, but also Zach, too. I always love to get like the insider background information from the guise of like stuff that we didn't see so that will be on those two will be on very shortly but before we do that let's just get into last night's episode i don't think we need to give like a full recap here but i know you and i had chad a little bit before this and we have a few key points of topics that we want to discuss let's just start it off fun on the best note and just get into gabby's one-on-one date. Not only did she have Eric, but she did say three's a crowd. And we see a face that we have been missing since Clayton's season. And that is Grandpa John. How excited were you to see him again? He's like the all-star of this episode. I will say that. Oh, yeah. Him and

Franco are like the two, when I was taking notes last night and this morning, I was like, These are the only two people I want to talk about because I love both of these men so much. But yeah, we saw Grandpa John again. What a fun date, right? Like, I mean, I would have loved to have any family member, at least at some point throughout my season, come on a date with me just to get a vibe. Because I feel like they always give such great insight. They can kind of cut any awkwardness out of there. And, I mean, they know, Grandpa John knows Gabby best.

So I think it was a great little, like, addition for this week, especially after, you know, we saw her go through some ups and the downs. And I feel like Grandpa John just came in for the win. It's just, no, I 100% agree. It's just like it's so, it's such a different situation when you're going through this process and you're legitimately like looking for a person that you're going to spend the rest of your life with. and typically when you go through anything like that like you have family and friends by you to like confide in and talk to and work through your emotions and it's such a just different aspect to go through this and not have that so for him to come in and be there like just have some type of familiarity with with gabby i think that was really good for her but then also it's like a really good just time or opportunity for the guys to truly understand or get to know more about Gabby in just a quicker manner, right? Because it's like you talk about these different conversations and these relationships, but it also feels different when you're, like, there with everybody.

Yeah. Well, and I think it's so great to have any sort of family member or friend. I feel like they should do this a lot more often, actually, on the season because, and for both, not only the leads, but also the contestant side of things, because I feel like you, besides hometowns, you don't get that. And I feel like you learn and see so much of somebody. And like, I think to actually build a solid relationship, you need to see that banter. You need to see how they interact with people outside of the show.

Like, you know, because for the most part, you're totally disconnected. You don't have any phone. You don't have any emails. You don't have any way to contact people who you're close with. And so I feel like bringing people in more often. just to actually see how they interact and how do they joke with with somebody that they know that they've known for a while like i think it's so important um and i think it could help on both ends like really solidify certain relationships um so i was so happy it was such a random date due

that grandpa john got to go on they like did this meditation sound bath and then they were bowling and drop my favorite part though was when they first saw grandpa john and people him up and they put him in the backseat middle and he's just sitting there bouncing in the back with little GoPro cameras on them. Did you expect anything different though? But I was like damn Eric at least give him like shotgun shotgun right? We're the manners man I don't know I don't know if her grandpa had the choice. I loved

it though that was like my favorite part of the episode I was just like I was in the middle of moving as I was watching this so I'm like packing up stuff but the second I heard Grandpa John I was like I was like I got to just stop what I'm doing to watch this. Full attention. Undivided attention. And who knows? I mean, Grandpa John seemed to hit it off with the woman at the bowling alley. I mean, I think I said this on last season's podcast, but I would love Grandpa John for if they ever do the senior bachelor show. This man better be on the show. This man better be the lead. He needs his own season.

Okay. Okay. I could talk about Grandpa John forever. But I do want to talk about two other men that I know we both have thoughts on. And that is Hayden and Jacob because as we saw at the after party following the massive group date, Gabby was having a rocky night. And it had a lot to do with several of the guys. I don't even think it was the guys coming up to her and being like, you're great. but I think I'm leaning towards Rachel. I think she would have been fine had that been the conversation.

But they both said certain things that seemed to rub Gabby the wrong way, seemed to rub Rachel the wrong way when she heard about it. I think I would hope that any viewer hearing certain things of what they said would be rubbed the wrong way because I definitely was. What were your thoughts on Hayden telling Gabby she's rough around the inches? it was just like the way that it was presented and this is like this is my issue with not in my issue but i really do feel like in this episode like gabby did a really good job of explaining and clarifying what it is to go through this process you do really put everything into this and you

spend so much time and like talking about your feelings talking about all these different things right You put so, so, so much in it. And then, like, for people just to come in and not be as open as you are, because what's hard is, it's like it is a two-way street. So, yes, Gabby and Rachel are really truly being open to, I feel like, a lot of these different men and knowing that connections can change like that. And I'm starting to get the feeling like that the guys are really not staying open to that. And being rough around the edges is not necessarily a negative trait. And I think that's what Gabby seemed to be the most heard about is the fact that, like, you know, like, that's the thing that I love about her is she steps into this position and she says what's on her mind and she's unapologetically herself. And that's exactly what you want.

Like, you don't want this perfect bachelorette. And, you know, she does that. And then for someone to be like, you're rough around the edges and like just like our morals aren't the same. whatever it is. I'm just like, dude. Also, like, there are so many words you can use to describe somebody or to articulate how you feel. And I don't think Hayden understands what rough around the edges means. And I would love to sit him down in front of us and to be like, what the hell do you mean by saying Gabby is rough around the edges? Because not... What do you feel like rough around the just means. Not what we've seen in Gabby whatsoever. Like, if he's going off of a comparison between

these two women, between Gabby and Rachel, like, it's very apparent that Gabby is more so the type of person to just say things off the cuff, right? And to just say what she's feeling and thinking and kind of just let it fly, which I find, I mean, I personally love that. I find it, like, so endearing. And I don't know what he means by, like, from what she's shown us, like, what is wrong. rough about her like she's she's more vocal and she'll maybe curse a little bit more and like make jokes but like that that's why when he said that I was like sir you could have said so many different things and he didn't even need to say that you could have just said I appreciate both of you being here and the time that you've given me but I have a better connection with Rachel and then just

shut up like that's all he had to say he didn't need to like dis her and like I felt for Gabby in that situation absolutely me too it was it was I think of what it was is it was it was showcased in a way where it seemed like of lesser value and like that was my issue right and again like comparing and when I said like exactly like because we've talked about we didn't want to see these two women pitted against each other and I knew regardless at some point in the season that was going to happen and this is just a one example of that of like these guys kind of being like well I have this one and I have this one and how am I comparing the two which like you can you can compartmentalize your relationships and your feelings for both women but

he just he could have gone about it in a much better way yeah but i saw that conversation as a reflection of him not a reflection of gabby oh 1,000 percent yeah but the conversation that really irked me wasn't necessarily with hayden it was actually with jacob because he didn't even say much like and jacob since night one when he was reading his list. I was like, Jacob, just stop. Like, this is not your season. But when Jacob goes, you know, I'm more into Rachel. Like, and if it was just you here, I'd probably send myself home. But you're smoking hot. Go on cake dirt, Jacob. Like, that is going to make Gabby feel better. Who taught you that? That's my thing. Is where does you learn that? Like, okay, cool, thanks. Like,

that's not going to make any woman in that situation feel remotely better. Like, again, just stop talking while you're ahead. It just makes it makes no sense. It makes no sense. And it's like this situation where like sometimes I feel like relationships and even the show is like it's romanticized right. And it's like those are things that can be a part of relationships. It can be

this like magical thing. But like this is the man that rode in on a horse like a night. I'm like that's what you with. I'm like that I'm like if we're going off of like the notebook and all these romantic novels. That's not a part of it.

You know, when it reminds me of, I don't, I think it was, oh, God, it was clearantious season. There was one guy who I don't even need to say his name because he doesn't need any more attention. But there was one guy who was like, she's a smoke show. It's like, that's exactly what this felt like. Like, I'm not viping with you, but you're still hot. It's like, cool. Thanks, bro. Like, I don't know.

It's like, they feel like that that's what we want to hear. It's like, that's not what. no one wants to hear that like and like put value on her personality or how charismatic she is or anything other than like oh you look great on the outside but you're like so like when gabby told rachel kind of what was said i feel like rachel is such a good loyal friend like even though she did i mean she did not give a rose to jacob thankfully but she did give a rose to hayden i don't think he's goodness, I mean, I would hope he doesn't stick around very long. I feel like when she was giving that rose, I was like, I just want her to be able to have a conversation with him and call

him out and ask him why he said what he said in the way he said it. And then just, you know, be gone too with him. But we'll see. Those are like the main highlights I took away from this episode. I mean, damn, it's wild. Well, I think it'll definitely help now that they're going to be split up. It'll be interesting to watch. I really, I will say, though, I am enjoying the dynamics of having two leads way more than I thought I would. I think this, once they're separated, I think it'll be much easier to see love stories unfold and it's not going to be quite so messy. But we'll just have to get into all that and see how it goes next week. In the meantime, I'm excited to talk to Ashley Cook. She's going to call in

to share all of the details about her new song with Brett Young. It's called Never, Never Till Now. And she'll also spill all of the tea from her performance during Rachel and Jordan's one-on-one last week. And I can't wait to hear her thoughts and what she was feeling when she saw just Rachel come in. Welcome, Ashley. How are you doing? And welcome to the show. Thank you so much. I'm doing so great. It is ridiculously hot in Nashville. So I'm like trying to like de-frost, like just like get a little cooler. Defrost. I'm like defrost. That's not the right word. But you'll look like you're glowing in that Nashville heat. We were actually just talking about this, and we're excited to have you on because I feel like, you know, we've seen people perform on the show every season, but I feel like you are one of the first to come on the podcast because you had an interesting situation. You thought you were going to perform for a happy couple after this lovely romantic one-on-one date, and you only got Rachel, you only got one person walking in.

And so, like, take me back to that performance that night. What were, what was going through your mind when only Rachel stepped through those doors? I mean, it was wild, you know? I mean, we had been told that it was going to be this romantic date and they had this little stage set up right in front of our stage that the couple could dance and hang out and have, you know, have the whole romantic moment. And my song, never till now is a love song.

It's about, you know, you finally found your person. Which is beautiful, by the way. I have to say that. It's beautiful. Thank you so much. But I mean, it was definitely a shock. And, you know, it's funny seeing, like, Twitter and Instagram blow up with all these, like, empty, you know, empty theater, like all this stuff. But honestly, it kind of turned out to be more special in a weird way.

Because, you know, backtrack, I had written ever till now about a manifestation for the kind of person that I want. It wasn't about somebody I had met. I was single at the time. I'm still single. Still looking for that kind of, like, forever love. And so it ended up being Rachel's Story 2, which was really cool. But, you know, it went from, oh, I found my person and this beautiful kind of, you know, you've seen it a million times first date dance thing to, wow, okay, like, I'm brave enough

to know when it's not right and to know that I haven't found this never till now. So it really was a beautiful night, and it kind of felt like a sound check in a lot of ways because it was just like Rachel in the very back of the theater. So, I mean, it wasn't awkward. It wasn't strange. It was just kind of like a real life, these are real humans kind of moment that ended up being really had you thought about like that this might be i mean did you watch well first did you watch the show have you watched this show before performing on the show i've watched a couple seasons um i was in

a sorority in college we used always have like watch parties but um i had some i know i've had some friends on the show before so i've watched like a few seasons um but i'm not like an avid watcher of it i would say did it ever cross you mind that it might be like the operative or the it potentially could just be the bachelor at walking in by herself or that didn't cross your mind until like it happened and you're like is he going to the bathroom is he like where's he at not at all I did not think I honestly was like no no no this is just how it's going to go you know this is a date like the whole reason that we're here performing is to like make this special kind of like concert for this couple I also don't know if that's

ever happened before I think we're the first one that's happened to I don't know check me on that we I think it I swear it's happened before I think it was maybe in case season or somebody i don't know i'm sure it's happened before but like the cool part is that you're the first time that like one of the performers is able to come on the podcast and kind of talk about that um yeah i mean i we will somebody will call us out on social media or after this podcast comes out to be like this has happened four other times on this season and this season so we will we will be checked very quickly um did you have the opportunity afterwards to talk to Rachel and actually tell Rachel what you just told us of like you wrote it to manifest

somebody in the future and kind of like that how it kind of could not like bonded you but I guess in a way yeah yeah I thought that way gosh I'm trying to remember exactly what we talked about I did meet her afterwards and we got to hang out for a minute and I remember telling her like hey you know like it's I'm in the same boat like you know it's it's going to be what it's going to be and I'm like proud of you for knowing what isn't right even though he seemed like a great guy whatever you know but you know I don't know if we got the chance to talk about the fact that it really did. It was the exact same situation that I wrote it for. But I think that she, you know, in that moment, you could just tell, you know, we performed to her. So I can see what you're

feeling or, you know, what you were thinking. And you could tell in her minds, you're just kind of like, you know, realizing like, wow, okay, like I deserve this kind of love. You know, these lyrics and this song are what I'm looking for. And I had to make the call to like, you know, keep on this journey and not settle for somebody that isn't that person. So, you know, even if we didn't say it. I think it was kind of like an unspoken thing that she just kind of felt. I knew she felt and I've felt before. So really special. I think the awesome thing for me anyways is the fact that anytime that like musical performances or anything like that has been involved, it really does break through almost like that awkwardness of like you're on a TV show. And you know what I mean?

There's producers and camera people that are like watching you. Anytime there's been like live music involved it really has just like become my focus and it sounds like the same thing for like to see you and rachel regardless of the circumstances of who is standing there and dancing but really being able to take that moment to actually reflect with what was going on and embracing just what is the now and what's here now and too watching the episode back hearing her you know during the song you know getting emotional and saying i don't want to be rachel the bachelorette i just want to be rachel I love that because it just, you know, even when we were filming it and all of everything that, you know, went down with the episode, it just reminded everybody that, you know, these are humans. These are not just people that are acting on a show that are, you know, doing it to get attention or whatever.

Like, they're real people looking for real love and real connection. And like, I think it just kind of humanized the whole thing to see that process and hear the song and really just have that moment. So I love the way that it all played out. And I really hope that she found somebody great by the end of the season, you know, I don't know. So you have seen this past. episode. Are there any standout guys that you would potentially pick or see working with Gabby or Rachel? I was kind of surprised that she didn't stick it out with Jordan because watching that date, like right before we performed. I mean, it was kind of, it was kind of an interesting.

I was like, man, this guy's really cute and he's super cool. But again, it just shows like, you know, you know, you know when you know. You know when it's the right person. So, but yeah, I mean, I have to keep watching to figure it out. I don't know. It's still fresh. It's tough. It's tough because, I feel like you just meet these people and you have to, like, make a call if you like them or if you don't like them right away. So it's just difficult. I feel like I'm the most empathic person on the planet. So I think I'd be like the worst Bachelorette in the world because I'd be like, but they're all great. Wait, but actually I wanted to ask you this because you said several times now that you are still single looking for the right one at some point.

Would you ever come on the show? Oh, gosh. Like I have a good question? Yeah, is a contestant? Yeah, Bachelor in Paradise, 2023. You know, I don't know. No, you've got to be a contested first before Paradise.

No, you don't. We're just going to shake up the rules. Okay, I mean, hey. We can just see, we already know some people. No, she could clearly run her own Bachelorette show. I mean, you never know until you try, but I can't say it's like, you know, I don't know. I don't know. I'm like, I don't know, guys.

She's like, I'll come on and just perform in the back. background the entire time and seemed everyone. She's like, I'll be out in the drama. I'll just serenade them all. Yeah. Oh, 100%. I don't think, I don't think anyone would mind. All right, Ashley.

So before we let you go, let everyone know where they can find you on social, where they can find your album. If you have any fun upcoming performances, like give us the whole shebang. Yeah, for sure. So pretty much across the board, all my socials are just at the Ashley Cook. with an E on the end, C-O-O-K-E. And I have a project that came out last year that's like eight songs that I'm super, super proud of.

And I just signed a record deal a couple months ago. And so we're working on my like debut album. Thank you so much. That's so exciting. Very exciting. You know, I have a new song coming out really soon. And I have a whole project following right after it. And then I'm going on tour with Cole Swindell, who's an amazing country artist.

I'm opening up for Luke Bryan for a couple of shows. So a lot of shows coming up in the next couple months. and tour with Cole and really just new music and touring is my life for the next year or so. So if you want to come see a show. Oh, hell yeah. Hell yeah. Yes, I love that. So, yes, everyone check out the Ashley Cook on social and hopefully we'll see more of you.

It was so fun to have Ashley on though and talk to her briefly. But we got to bring on the man of the hour this week, Mr. Zach, who had the very special, very romantic. one-on-one with Rachel so let's get Zach on here now welcome Zach and welcome to Bachelor happy hour we're really excited to have you are you nervous very my part is pounding right now I don't every time we have one of you guys on since we've started this new season recap you guys are also nervous I'm like we are the easiest podcast to talk to only Becca bites not me only Becca I don't know we were invited. It's like we have two good cops here. You will be in great hand, Zach. And we're

actually really excited to have you on because right before we brought you on, I was talking about how special and unique and romantic your first date was with Rachel. So before we get into all of that, how did you get on the show? Were you fan of it before? Did you, did somebody reach out and ask you to apply? Yeah. So I didn't hear much of, you know, a bachelor too much i mean my sister uh and my mom are big fans uh but other than that i you know just wasn't necessarily tuned into it and i'd been in a relationship for you know quite some time and and uh about two years ago i was single you know working on myself and i had a friend of mine uh actually daniel toli from the franchise um nominate me to be on the show and i thought you know

what better time than now I'm ready to get back in the dating you know scene but I mean what are the chances I actually you know make it on and there you go it just came out of you know nowhere and look at you now yeah I mean it was pretty pretty quick but you know all thanks to Daniel really okay where and where are you based where are you from so I'm originally from California and I'm hills but I've been living in Austin for the past couple of years trying to figure out, you know, where I want to live next. Austin's great, but, you know, see where I want to go next. Wait, are you perhaps waiting to figure out where you want to go next

because you ended up with Rachel? And you guys are deciding together? What's the next question? Keeping this on our toes. I like it. Well, so, okay, so you said a friend, Daniel, right? With, did he, wait, first of all, did he tell you that he nominated you? Or did you like receive like a phone call or message and then it came about. And then he was like, oh, by the way.

So Daniel was on your season, Michelle. Firefighter, right? Firefighter, correct. Like he's the one that came in on the, the little toy firefighter. And then PJ was the one that came in the real one. Yeah, they did him dirty on that. I'll tell you. Real bad.

Real bad. To your question, he, you know, he came back. from, you know, the show and he had a great experience and he's like, hey, I'm going to throw your hat in the ring. You know, I'm not going to like stop you. Like, I'm going to at least put your name in there and then you decide if you want to pursue it or not. And I thought, you know, like, what's going to hurt from this? You know, I'm at that point where I'm ready for this, you know, ready to find my person and what great, you know, opportunity would be like on the Bachelorette. So you said, you said opportunity.

to find your person or persons like at what point when you found out that there were two bachelorettes what were your thoughts on that when i found out there were two uh my stomach dropped i was like how do you actually do this now like it feels like it's already you know such you know a it's a it's a tough situation and there's a lot of pressure and and you um you know you want to make the the the most of the situation and find a connection with that person and now you have two there and you have to start to figure out, you know, who is going to be my person, which one of these two, because they're both incredible women. And, you know, it's nerve-wracking when you first meet them, like coming out of the limo,

and you're like, wow, how am I going to do this? Like, you don't, you kind of learn on the fly. But, I mean, overall, it was just, it was incredible, so. As if it wasn't hard enough. Exactly. Plot test. Okay, wait, so remind us, remind Becca and I, just because there are just so many things going on that first night, remind us what was your entrance again for those who are listening? Yeah, so I was first out of the limo and I just went for, you know, showing myself. I didn't want to do any, you know, gimmicks or any jokes. I was wanting to introduce myself as who I am and get to know both of these women. And right when I got out of the limo, I was. I blacked out completely as

everyone says. Like I don't even know what I really said like I was like oh my gosh like look at you too like this is unreal I can't wait to get to know you I actually forgot my name and Rachel called me out on that one and we've all been there

yep we've all blacked out Daniel couldn't give you any tips no there's nothing that can prepare you for that like initial foot out the limo scene everything like there's nothing um so i want to know like how early on did you know that it was going to be rachel like right away night one after you talked to her were you still potentially open to gabby or was

it really after your first one-on-one that you were like i'm in it's done it's rachel that's it so actually on night one i didn't have the chance to speak with either the women i was one of the many that, you know, thought we were going to go home. We just, we didn't get the chance. And I remember, you know, talking to Nate saying like, hey, it was nice getting to know you, but we're going home, I guess. Like, they don't know who I, who we are. It wasn't until the next cocktail party, um, that I actually met Rachel.

And we did a mini golf or put putt, put golf up front of the mansion. And from then on, I mean, we had just this spark and connection. We were laughing, having a great time. And, you know, it's, it's not strange to say, but it was, it was crazy how quick I knew. I was like, all right, like, I'm here for her. Like, that's, it's pretty clear. Like, I don't need, you know, anything else, any other, you know, validation for this. Like, I, I think she's the ones for this.

So, yeah. Well, when you, when you started that date, the, which we'll get into this full-on, one-on-one date that you guys had together, like, right away when you saw each other, you just, like, started making out. And I was like, is this the first time we've seen them kiss? Because it definitely can't be because we know it's happened if they're like this close and intimate already. I was kind of taken it back when I was like, okay, they clearly have something going on that we just not have seen, not, we have not seen enough of yet. And that's why I was so excited to watch you two on the date just to see how everything went down. You had such a cool freaking date.

Seriously. The cool thing. The coolest day. The coolest day. Like, seriously. How starstruck were you with not even the fact. that you met Caramo, but that he styled you, you guys were, like, having foot baths, drinking champagne together, like, what was going... I think you said, what did you say? Like, I've never done anything like this before, but it's like, you realize that if, like, you end up with Rachel, right?

Like, like, red carpet, sorry, this is now your life. It doesn't have to be. It doesn't have to be. I mean, it was pretty cool. I don't need to scare you No, I mean, it was I mean, it was an incredible date I had no idea what to expect

You know, seeing Karamo I was like, I know that guy That guy's a big deal and you know What are we doing? What's this movie premiere we're preparing for? And you know, everything from the spa or the foot cleanse thing I mean, I've never done that before I was I think my fingers were like curled up My toes were curled up

I was like oh my gosh, this is unreal And then it just gradually, like, I felt more comfortable because it was, you know, a lot real quick. And I mean, I'm not one that's really great with style, per se, and Karamo, you know, did me right. The first outfit you came out in, it was a little iffy. That first one, I was like, whew, did you like the first outfit? No, no, what I showed up in? No. no I remember like just immediately like oh this is this one's going to hurt yeah but

I think about those situations it's like it is such a weird like uncomfortable different situation but as long as you can like be somewhat comfortable with the person you're with and that also shows a lot yeah and Rachel made me feel so comfortable with it because it was it was an uncomfortable situation like I'm not you know one to you know go about this crazy extravagant um day really and uh she throughout the whole process was there and and you know walking me through it like making sure i'm comfortable making sure i'm you know enjoying it which i was it was just really intense at first and i mean it was like the most magical date i've ever had beck you went on the shopping date didn't you i did well so zach as you're as you're talking

through just like how uncomfortable like parts parts of that date were uncomfortable I can totally relate my I got the first one-on-one date of the season that I was on and and it was so outside of my comfort zone because it was like a full on pampering date with champagne. We had we had a designer there Rachel Zoe who literally like I and mind you, I'm coming from Minnesota like don't spend a lot of money. I don't go over the top. I'm straight out of Minnesota and Rachel Zoe and her team literally. take off my clothes. So I'm in just my underwear, tits out in front of Rachel's own. I'm like, um, is this what this entire season's going to be? Because I'm not used to be naked in front of

many people. Like, what the fuck's going on? Like, so uncomfortable. But I, like, I'm sure you kind of just had to like flip into this mindset, which is, which is what I tried to do of like, this is a once and a lifetime opportunity. And like, no one else is ever going to be able to experience. And, like, no one else is ever going to be able to experience this. So instead of like feeling awkward and uncomfortable, I'm just going to embrace it and just go with it because we're here. I'm naked about to get dressed and all these cool styles. Like was there that point? I know that you said Rachel kind of helped you just like feel more comfortable and at ease. And luckily you guys, you know, you're holding hands throughout the date. We all noticed it. But was there like that mindset switch that you're just

like, I'm just going to go all in and like make this the best day possible for not only me, but for this incredible woman? Yeah, absolutely. Like, right in the beginning, you know, we're doing the foot massage cleanse and it's still really tough to open up and, you know, we're, you know, eating snacks. And then when we were actually trying on the outfits, I remember being in and just thinking, you know, like, this is an incredible opportunity. There's no reason for me to be really scared or nervous.

Rachel's incredible. This is an incredible experience. I'm just going to be in the moment, enjoy it. I mean, obviously, it's unique. and once in a lifetime and Karama's right out there giving me a Versace or whatever suit there is. And I'm like, I came in in a T-shirt and jeans. Like, and it's not typically what I do, but there's a moment where it just clicks and you enjoy it. It's so hard.

I think it's, right. I think it's a little, it's an abnormal situation that honestly a lot of people don't get to experience. And so like being nervous and uncomfortable is normal and a part of it. it's just like if that allows if you allow that to affect how you like embrace the experience i think that's when it's you know a tough part with that but i really i really want to know more about like what cramo said like what is the best advice that he gave you and rachel uh cramma was great uh first off he's hilarious uh in person i mean the guy just not stop cracking jokes but to be honest right uh you know right in the very beginning of it you know we

went straight to it. We were really just, you know, addressing, you know, Rachel's past and what had happened earlier and, you know, what I'm going to do differently. And it was really about how I want to approach this, you know, completely different, not different to myself, but different than how it was, you know, treated in the past. And, you know, she deserves, you know, all the love in the world and respect. And I, we were trying to figure out and see if I could be that, you know, man for her. And we've all seen how, you know, incredible. she is so I think and I know that she does you know deserve that so yeah and it seems like it was special that day two with Caramo because he genuinely cared about Rachel and like wanted her to

find a good partner it wasn't just like let's go through the motions of hosting these two and you know like dressing them up it was genuinely like he wanted to see how you two interacted together and like talk to you to get to know you to see if you could be a good fit which which I think made it that much more memorable, probably for you, definitely, but for the viewers. Let's get into the night part, though, this movie premiere. What did you think you were actually going to walk into? Did you expect it to be a movie premiere of the two of you as children? Not at all. I thought, you know, okay, we're hearing movie premiere and I'm running through my head of like what movies are coming out. Like, I love movies. I love going to movie theater. Like, sure, it could be literally any movie.

I'm like, cool, let's go see it. You're like, is it top gun? Yeah, always. There's a top gun, grassy part. Yeah, exactly. Lion King, part two. And once, you know, we're in the limo and we open it up and we see the red carpet with the paparazzi. And even then when we saw the signs that said you and me, I was still like, huh, I haven't heard of that movie before.

Like, that's kind of, that's like a cool movie. There's a rom-com. Yeah, I was like, yeah, definitely. definitely. It was, I mean, I'm just, you know, replaying it back now. And it was, it was so overwhelming. But it wasn't clicking yet. I was like, really, I haven't heard of this movie before. Like, this is going to be interesting. And when we get inside and we see the, the letter from Caramo and the, you know, the childhood home video start playing, I mean, I mean, I just no words, really. I mean, it was, I wouldn't expect anything like that.

And you're like, I, I know these actors and actresses and this movie. Yeah, wait a minute. It was really just like genuine to watch that though with YouTube. Because because your actual like emotions and feelings were incredibly genuine with what you're feeling like I know that I teared up over here. Like I teared up as both of you guys teared up. Did you? Yeah. It was cute. I was so jack. I'm sorry. I did not tear up. You did not tear up. I did not tear up. And it's special to have that moment, especially so early.

on with Rachel, you know, you learn a lot about each other in that, in that moment. Yeah. Yeah, and it was, it was the moment of, you know, you're, you're being very vulnerable with this person really early on. And, uh, it's, it's great seeing like the support. So not only where, you know, the, the childhood videos being played, but, you know, our, our family sent in a message and it was them showing their support for us. And I, you know, I needed to see that. And, and I just, you know, a little bit of waterworks came. Um, um, But it was, it was special with Rachel and, and, you know, it was great. One thing that I, and I just thought of this because, you know, when you come on the show and what I don't think anyone realizes is like, prior to like even filming, how long you're away from your family and friends, like you're in quarantine, you don't have a phone, you don't have access to a computer, so you can't even email.

So it's like a good chunk of time that you're away from your people. And so seeing them in that moment, is that kind of what struck the waterworks is like being able to see your mom and like hear her voice after being away and not talking to her for so long and hearing that. Is that kind of what struck the chord with you? Yeah, absolutely. It was it was seeing her after, you know, all that time, but also seeing her be so supportive for me because she knew, you know, I was at that point in my life ready to, you know, find my person. And it was just crazy how the timelines just worked. I was here with Rachel and I already felt that spark in connection with her and I see my mom there and she's there to, you know, cheer me on, you know, until the end. And I just, I was not expecting

it. And, uh, you know, mama, mama's boy at heart. So it was, uh, it was, it was, it was, it was, it was unreal. It was really unreal. Perfect timing. Yeah. Truly. Bachelor has a way of doing that. Did you, did you expect you and Rachel to have so much. common because even going back to like the thing with the pilot and going to the airports to watch the place everything like that like it seemed i mean like you could not make this stuff stuff up it was it was like you two were so aligned did you expect that no i honestly you can't expect something like that it was it felt you know it natural but it was almost like there was

all these signs that, you know, like it was meant to be. And, you know, I knew she, she's a pilot going into it. And, you know, that helps, you know, get to know. But then after that, it was just like, no, it's this person for who she is. There's something here. And flying is pretty awesome. So why not? Where, where are you at in the process of getting your pilot's license? Very early. So I wasn't going to get it in Austin. um my my dad he uh had his pilot's license um in california and he has um you know his instructors that he uses so you know at some point i was going to be in california to get my license and um it only takes you know a few months and so i'm in the oh my god don't tell me that that makes

it it is it it only takes a couple months to get a pilot's license i was going to say is the private pilot license or not like the commercial license correct yeah just private just private well there's certain classes that you uh like class a and i believe class c and those are just different uh like thresholds or regulations that you let you clear um through testing i'm not a pro or expert i'm only hearing this for my for my dad um but you know as like a commercial pilot you have to be um tested in other things than just a private pilot and you can only fly at certain altitudes got it gosh we got to get we got to get girl who could fly planes i was i was like we got to just call up Rachel and pick her brain on this. Right. Okay, so moving on from that beautiful

date that you two had, let's get up into the rose ceremony that week because obviously you weren't on that group date. You didn't see all of the stuff go down like with Gabby and the circle that she was having. But they totally canceled the rose ceremony this week. But before that, Jesse Palmer comes in and he's like, hey, surprise. It's not just being canceled. canceled, but you guys, like, we're splitting up the group, basically. And this is going to be two separate seasons. And, you know, the men kind of have to decide who they want to go with, who they have the strongest connection with. What was going through your head in that moment? Because obviously, you were safe with the Rose. You already knew you had such a strong connection with

Rachel. But, like, what was going through your head? And what was the vibe in the room with all of the other men who were still undecided? Yeah. So when I heard about the decision to, you know, make it two separate, you know, bachelorettes and, and, you know, two separate guys. For me, it was, it was easy. Like, I already knew from the moment I really met Rachel in our time together, I was there for her. So I didn't have, you know, any problem. But for the actual, you know, canceled ceremony, Avon and I were actually outside and we weren't actually there to take part or hear the news. So we were hearing everything after the fact about how, you know, everyone's face is just dropped and they were realizing oh shit we have to make a decision or

you know people on the fence um but it you know it felt great just knowing you know what i had was rachel and and um not being in that you know very tense room yeah did you feel like there's like anyone who really i don't even know the response would be like oh shit when you have to make a decision you know what i mean like it's somewhat early on right it's a big decision Did you have anybody who really felt like there was, like they were torn between this decision? You know, I can't think of anyone specific, but I know that there were still some guys at that point that really didn't, you know, speak with either Gabby or Rachel or have any connection. So it's really hard for them to have to choose when there's nothing really to guide it on, you know, or, you know, choose. So there's a few guys that, you know, none that come to mind.

where I'd be like, you know, that guy, oh, he's, he's done for, he's going to get in trouble. But what I learned after the fact that it was tense and that there were some rejected roses, I mean, that's the last thing you want, you know, it just made her, you know, upset. So that was that was the worst case, the worst case. And that's actually something I want to ask you about because, you know, when the women are hating out these roses one by one, like you guys are all outside. side who are safe, kind of watching in and seeing the men either accept or deny the roses. And at one point, both women walked out to have a conversation. And what you, you didn't see

in that moment, but watched later on is Rachel kind of is breaking down. And she's having this moment of like, so many men are declining my roses. And it makes, she's like, I'm embarrassed by this. And it like reflects poorly on the men who have already accepted my rose, which I wanted to, like, in that moment, I would be like, no, like, these men that accepted your rose are here for you and, like, you and still want to pursue you. And I hate that these other men who, you know, decided not to say yes to her rose, like, left her in this, like, tainted space of, like, just feeling bad. And so, like, in that moment, if you were there with Rachel, what would you been able to say to make her feel better? Because, like, I feel like that's something that, like, if anyone was in that position, we'd all probably would have felt embarrassed and all would have felt, um, a little discouraged. And so having a guy who she already has a strong connection with to build her up and make her feel better, what I think have been so important? What would you have said to her?

That's a great question. I mean, first it broke my heart to see that she was so upset. And I mean, the last thing she should feel is embarrassed because, as everyone knows, she's an incredible woman. And if there are guys that happen to reject her and not see that in her, you're better off without them. You don't need that in your life. There's, you know, there's people out there for you. We have, you know, us, you know, we're the Rachel guys.

And, I mean, we see something in you. We have your back through through it all. And, you know, I would really just support her and just let her know that, hey, like, you're better off without them. You don't need them. You know, I know it's painful and it's tough. And no one ever likes to be told no and be, you know, rejected. But, you know, there's incredible, you know, people out there for.

you and you know we want your heart so that's probably what i'd yeah oh that's i want to get that clippings send it to her yeah yeah that well that's very sweet thank you for sharing that because i feel you know now it's weeks months later but it's still so important to hear you know it's tough and i mean she's a true brother getting through that i mean it's it's not easy and uh she she's still handled it incredibly well i'm happy she i'm right now in the season i'm happy that she has somebody like you to you know i am too oh my gosh am i getting emotional now damn i know i was like crying earlier what is happening to us this week so zach i want to get into um well we're going to ask you the rosent thorne which is something that we ask our guests every week but before we do that

if you could sum up without giving anything away this is going to be difficult if you can sum up the rest of this season in a little phrase or a couple words what would it be? Incredibly romantic. Oh. Okay. Wow.

Well, it sounds like someone had a good journey. What does that mean? Okay. I don't, okay, Zach, I'm just saying this right now. I don't know shit about the rest of the season. I truly like I always kind of know spoilers I know nothing with Rachel or Gabby I don't know who final four are I don't even like I don't even know anything but I'm calling it right now I think Zach you're going far and I think sir you might just be the one for Rachel I'm saying I think I'm placing in my bets I'm placing my bets I already placed it let's go um but for real Zach this is a question you you can answer and I'm just going to have you start because you are the man of the hour so every

week we do a rose and thorn which is basically of that week like your highlight favorite moment best moment and then a low light something you know that you could have lived without so take it away okay I guess I'll start with a thorn and you know I don't think I mean it was an incredible week, but really, it was the outfit I wore to the date. I'm just kicking my phone. I was like, really? Did I not look twice? And why did none of my friends tell me, dude, don't wear that? Cromwell came at the perfect time. Oh, I needed it. I needed. He's kind of changed my whole thought process now for what I wear. So, but then. That was your thorn. That was my thorn. And then my Rose was when Rachel and I were dancing on stage to the song that was composed by the pianist that was there.

And we just low danced for a long time. I mean, it was awesome. You know what? Even though, like, that is still a great Thorne, I will say. You had a damn good week if that's your thing. I mean, it was an unreal week. Like, it doesn't even feel real. Still, still.

All right. Michelle, what about you? My love. I like that I also like how Zach started with a thorn because then he ended with a positive I like that. Yeah, that's a good sign.

I'm going to start with the happy part and end with the negative. I'm just kidding. But no, I would say that my Rose was just watching Zach and Rachel in this moment where they got to do the red carpet, they got to kind of feel that world

because that is something that, you would feel if you're together, you know, after this, but then really just getting, like, seeing the motions on both of your faces as like, your family is speaking to you. And, you know, you're seeing your childhood and all those different things because you just, you learn so much, you feel so much in those moments. And the fact that you guys could share that together was chef's kiss. It was awesome. The thorn would have to be, um, what's, what's his, Jacob. What is it?

Hayden. No, the one who is like, you're rough around the edges. Hayden. Hayden. Hayden. Yeah. Hayden saying, you're rough around the edges, Gabby. All I have to say is like, what I say to my fifth graders when something doesn't come out nice, rephrase.

Like, try again. Yeah. And I'm going to I'm going to add to your thorn as my thorn and say the same sentiment goes for Jacob and telling Gabby that even though he might not be there for her personality, she's still smoking hot. What are we 12? No. So that's my thorn. And my rose is definitely Grandpa John. Hands out.

That's it. Grandpa John, I want more of him. I want to see him on every episode this season because he is just glorious. So that is my Rose. Well, I did on a high note. I love that. Okay. All right. Well, Zach, thank you so much for being here. I'm sure we will either see you in the near future, whether it's at Mental All, but I'm really hoping it's for the finale with a ring on our girl, Rachel's finger. So thank you for taking time out of your day. I know I'm sure you're a busy, busy man, but we so appreciate having you here. Thank you for having me. This has been awesome. I really enjoyed Zach. We didn't ask him, but how old

is he? I have no idea. I need to look that one up, but he, regardless, he feel like he carries himself really well. Like, he knows what he wants. Yeah. He seems incredibly just, well-spoken, mature. Mm-hmm. He seems very genuine

and that's what I like about him. Yeah, he... Genuine, but confident. Something that I noticed just on his day with Rachel and seeing the two of them interact is like he seems like a calming presence for her, which I even picked up on the podcast. podcast. I think, like, he's going to be a safe place for her throughout this entire season, which you always need.

Safe place, but embraces, like, the, like, weird just situations you're put in on the show. Totally. Yeah. Yeah. Very well-rounded. So, Zach, thank you for joining us. That was a fun one. Well, that was a really fun overall episode because we have had two vastly different guests, which always makes for a good time. Thank you to Zach and Ashley for both being. here. I love a little dual interview action. And Michelle, thank you. And I got to say, before we really wrap this up, we have some big news that Michelle wants to share on next week's episode. So you won't want to miss it. And to make sure you don't miss us, we come out every Tuesday. But you also don't want to miss the all new episodes. You can catch the new ones of The Bachelor every Monday on ABC or Hulu. And make sure it heads up on social. You can follow us.

at Bachelor Happy Hour on Instagram, and from there, you'll find everything you need to know to follow us on Twitter and TikTok. And Bachelor Happy Hour is available on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, or wherever you listen, and you can always listen to us ad-free by subscribing to Wondry Plus in Apple Podcasts or the Wondery app. Thank you, Becca, and thank you everyone, and we will see you next week. Bye. Scott Barry Kaufman, host of the psychology podcast.

Here's a clip from an upcoming conversation about how to be a better you. When you think about emotion regulation, you're not going to choose an adaptive strategy which is more effortful to use unless you think there's a good outcome. Avoidance is easier. Ignoring is easier. Denials easier. Complex problem solving takes effort. Listen to the psychology podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Hi, it's Honey German, and I'm back with season two of my podcast. Grasias, come again. We got you when it comes to the latest in music and entertainment with interviews with some of your favorite Latin artists and celebrities. You didn't have to audition? No, I didn't audition. I haven't auditioned in, like, over 25 years. Oh, wow.

That's a real G-talk right there. Oh, yeah. We'll talk about all that's viral and trending, with a little bit of cheesement and a whole lot of laughs. And, of course, the great bevras you've come to expect. Listen to the new season of Grasias, come again on the IHeart radio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcast. This is an IHeart podcast.