The Connection Code with Rachel and Jeana

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of breast cancer, medical trauma, and serious illness. Please take care while listening, especially if these topics are close to home.In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Jeana Anderson Cohen and Rachel Gillman Rischall sit down with Dr. Carlie Thompson, a breast surgical oncologist, mother of two, and breast cancer survivor, to explore how life’s hardest moments can become catalysts for clarity, connection, and profound transformation.Only days after her final breast cancer surgery, Carlie shares her story with extraordinary honesty: from receiving her own diagnosis as a breast cancer surgeon, to choosing to pause her medical career, homeschool her children, and take her family on a bold global reset. Together, they talk about grief, resilience, friendship, identity, motherhood, marriage, and the people who show up when everything changes.This episode is about what it means to stop, listen, and realign (and how connection becomes the foundation for healing). We discuss:✨ Carlie’s diagnosis and the emotional impact of becoming both doctor and patient ✨ The wake-up call that led her to reshape her life and priorities ✨ How community and unexpected support became a lifeline during treatment ✨ Why she chose to step away from her career and begin a year of world travel with her family ✨ The courage to share her story publicly and the overwhelming response that followed ✨ Practical breast health guidance: when to start mammograms and who to see ✨ What true wellness really means — physically, emotionally, and spiritually ✨ The healing power of friendship and family connection during crisis Dr. Carlie Thompson is a board-certified, fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist and associate professor of surgery at UCLA Health. She is also a breast cancer survivor whose personal journey has reshaped her mission: helping women reconnect with themselves and redefine what it means to truly be well.Follow Carlie’s journey and her work in women’s health at @drcarliethompson on Instagram & Facebook

Season 2 of The Connection Code kicks off with a heartfelt conversation between Jeana and Rachel reflecting on what Season 1 taught them about friendship, creativity, and community — and what they hope to build together in the year ahead. From personal connection goals and the surprising science of friendship to dream guests and real-life Connection Code gatherings, this episode sets the tone for a season rooted in intention, curiosity, and meaningful relationships.In This Episode: Season 1 ReflectionsJeana and Rachel revisit the original “joy metrics” that guided the podcast:Are we having fun? (Yes — this podcast has become their favorite hobby.)Are we connecting people? (Absolutely — including real-life introductions sparked by the show.)Are we receiving meaningful feedback? (Listeners from beyond their personal networks are engaging deeply.)Is it worth the time? (Unquestionably.)Are guests recommending new guests? (A powerful “daisy chain” of incredible women.) They also reflect on how the podcast has deepened their own friendship — shared history, mutual friends, and an expanding sense of “group” in their lives. Jeana’s Focus: Creating meaningful friendships where she lives and learning to join groups rather than always lead them. Rachel’s Focus: A “One-a-Day” connection practice: reaching out intentionally to one person every day with a simple message of gratitude, care, or curiosity. Rachel notices her mood and energy dramatically improve on recording days — something Jeana connects to the neuroscience of friendship: the brain releases oxytocin and dopamine in social bonding, producing effects similar to MDMA. In other words, deep conversation and human connection literally make us feel better. Rachel’s Pick: A New York Times story by Katherine Rosman about a group of six women who have met consistently for 44 years — a masterclass in commitment, vulnerability, and lifelong friendship. Jeana’s Pick: Insights from Why Brains Need Friends on the power of “loose ties” — the small, everyday interactions with strangers (baristas, neighbors, commuters) that significantly boost mood and wellbeing. Studies show even brief conversations with strangers improve daily happiness. Together, they explore how both close ties and loose ties are essential for a thriving social life. Jeana’s Dream Guests:Ty Haney (community-first business building)Founder of Girls Who WalkCasper ter Kuile (author of How We Gather and The Power of Ritual) Rachel’s Dream Guests:Gayle KingJenna Bush HagerPriya Parker (The Art of Gathering) They also share a vision of bringing The Connection Code to life with in-person gatherings — possibly at Petite Acres.

In the Season 1 finale of The Connection Code, Jeana Anderson Cohen and Rachel Rischall sit down with film producer Jolene Rodriguez, CEO of Broken English Productions and one of Variety’s “10 Producers to Watch.” Jolene’s story is a testament to what happens when connection meets courage, from keeping her intern badge and showing up at Sony Pictures until she earned a job, to building a career anchored in generosity, inclusion, and heart.She opens up about the loss of her twin sister Julie and the creation of her nonprofit Friends of Julie, which helps young storytellers discover confidence and purpose. The conversation spans motherhood, mentorship, Hollywood hustle, and the quiet power of staying true to yourself.In Jolene’s world, connection isn’t just networking—it’s fuel for persistence, healing, and impact.In this episode:Broken English ProductionsFriends of Julie@jolene_rodriguez_ on InstagramBorder Hunter Trailer (Sony)Variety: 10 Producers to Watch – Jolene Rodriguez

This week on The Connection Code, Jeana and Rachel sit down with Carla Piñeyro Sublett — former CMO of IBM, recovering tech executive, and founder of Co-Effect, where she helps people and organizations find more human-centered ways to work.Carla shares her remarkable story of walking away from a high-powered tech career, taking her family offline for a year to reconnect, and rediscovering her purpose, “to be in service of humanity.” She opens up about her “100 first dates” experiment that helped her realign her professional values, what it means to work with an open heart, and why vulnerability is a leadership superpower.The conversation covers:The year Carla’s family went device-free and how it changed everythingThe hidden cost of technology on attention and connectionHow she rebuilt her identity after burnoutThe importance of following joy — not just successThis one’s for anyone rethinking what a holistic approach to life and work really looks like.Resources and links:Let's Go There (Carla's podcast)Carla's company, The CoEffectCarla Piñeyro Sublett on LinkedInHenry Crown Fellowship — the leadership program she references“Dances with Whales” expeditions — from her transformative trip experienceThursday Murder Club book series — Jeana’s “Show & Tell” pick

What happens when connection goes wrong? In this episode of The Connection Code, Jeana Anderson Cohen and Rachel Gillman Rischall swap stories about their biggest connection pet peeves — from transactional networking emails and unfulfilled promises to the dreaded “we should grab coffee” that never happens.But this isn’t just a vent session. Together, Jeana and Rachel explore what these missteps can teach us about being better friends, colleagues, and connectors. Expect laughter, self-awareness, and even a few cringe-worthy personal stories (like the time Rachel asked a near-stranger for a celebrity birthday video … and lived to regret it).They’ll unpack:How to ask for introductions without making it transactionalThe art of following through on favors and commitmentsWhy “we should” is the most overused phrase in connectionThe beauty of being inclusive at events — and how to be the person who invites others inSimple scripts for repairing connection missteps (and why an authentic apology still matters)And stay tuned for Show & Tell, where Jeana shares the Washington Post article that proves almost everything is better with friends, and Rachel spotlights a Chicago restaurant’s inspiring story of community support after tragedy struck.Media:🗞️ Washington Post: “Doing almost anything is better with friends” — the article Jeana references in Show & Tell.📚 Priya Parker’s The Art of Gathering — the book that inspired Rachel’s “No Small Talk” event format.💌 GoFundMe for Dear Margaret Restaurant — the fundraiser Rachel started to help support a beloved neighborhood spot after a fire.🎧 Related episode: “Condensed Connections: Building Bonds on a Deadline” with Lindsay Shookus

James Beard Award–winner Jason Hammel, chef/owner of Chicago’s beloved Lula Cafe, joins us to unpack what hospitality really is (“empathy in action”), how a restaurant keeps its soul for 26+ years. We also touch on why showing up for staff, guests, and himself matters more than ever. We talk about teaching “service grammar” vs. cultivating a culture of generosity, the forest-like networks that sustain teams, and the art of building connection beyond the table - from Pilot Light’s food-education mission to LouLou, Lula’s intimate salon space for dinners, talks, and art.We also get personal: Jason’s sliding-doors path from MFA writer to chef, his Italian roots (and a magical Naples wine-bar connection sparked by a handwritten note), and his honest take on rekindling long-time friendships in a busy season of life. If you care about food, community, or the craft of welcoming people well, this one will refill your “care water.” Show Notes & Links:Lula Cafe — the Logan Square institution. https://www.lulacafe.com/2024 James Beard Award (Outstanding Hospitality) — Lula Cafe’s national winThe Lula Cafe Cookbook: Collected Recipes and Stories — Jason’s debut (Phaidon). Pilot Light — the chef-founded nonprofit bringing food education into classrooms.Jason’s Welcome Conference talk (“Showing Up First for Yourself”) — on hospitality, emotional labor, and empathy. LouLou by Lula — the new arts/salon venue around the cornerFind Jason on social:Jason Hammel (site & IG) — more writing, speeches, and kitchen life. @jasonhammelLula Cafe on Instagram — menus, collabs, and event drops. @lulacafe

In this episode of The Connection Code, Jeana and Rachel sit down with Chef Joe Flamm,Top Chef winner, restaurateur, and lifelong South Sider, whose career and character are defined by one word: authenticity.Joe shares his journey from dropping out of college to culinary school, grinding in Chicago’s toughest kitchens, and ultimately winning Top Chef and opening acclaimed restaurants like Rose Mary and il Carciofo. He opens up about the friendships forged on the line, the mentors who shaped him (Stephanie Izard, Tony Mantuano, Art Smit, and Bill Kim), and the bold choices that built his career.We explore how authenticity shows up in friendships, leadership, and in the kitchen. He also shares why every chef (and every human) needs a friend like Joe’s lifelong hype man, Matt.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to stay true to yourself while building something big, this conversation is for you.In the episode: Rose Mary Restaurant Il CarciofoBLVDTop Chef (Bravo) Season 15No Kid Hungry (Joe’s advocacy work mentioned in the episode)Between Bites (the storytelling dinner series referenced in the conversation)New York Times piece by Samin Nosrat on dinner rituals The New York Times piece reacting to the weekly dinner ritual by Melissa KirschFollow us:Follow Joe Flamm on Instagram

In this episode of The Connection Code, Jeana and Rachel sit down with the incomparable DJ Blatner, registered dietitian, sports nutritionist, bestselling author, and self-described joy evangelist.DJ shares how she hit rock bottom despite outward success, and how reframing joy as a skill set, not a mindset transformed her life, work, and relationships. Together, we explore:Why joy is a nutrient—and how to “dose” yourself daily with play, gratitude, and self-careHow DJ’s “Joy GPS” system keeps her grounded and energizedThe role of food as connection—from pizza croutons to family recipes that keep loved ones closeWhy being interested instead of interesting is the secret to effortless friendshipsHow flexible eating (and living!) lets us say yes to joy and connection without rigid rulesIf you’ve ever felt burnt out by chasing outcomes or struggled to infuse more fun into everyday life, this conversation will leave you energized, smiling, and ready to add more sparkle to your week.Mentioned in this conversation:DJ’s Website: djblatner.comThe Flexitarian Diet by DJ Blatner (top-rated every year on U.S. News)The Superfood Swap by DJ BlatnerBurnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily & Amelia NagoskiPlay: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul by Stuart BrownLaura Vanderkam’s work on time and memoryChef @donaldduckconfit who was the chef at the @savorwe dinner Rachel mentioned

What does it take to build trust in just six days? Lindsay Shookus knows. After two decades producing Saturday Night Live, she’s mastered the art of forging deep bonds quickly with some of the most high-profile guests in entertainment. In this episode of The Connection Code, Jeana and Rachel sit down with Lindsay to talk about the “camp counselor” side of SNL, her evolution into executive coaching and public speaking, and the powerhouse community she co-founded—Women Work F#cking Hard.You’ll hear:How vulnerability, humor, and listening create instant chemistryWhy curating “heart-forward” people is the secret to meaningful eventsThe “help notebook” practice Lindsay uses to turn every meeting into an opportunity to giveHer take on teasing, therapy, and boundaries in building authentic relationshipsThis one is equal parts starstruck and soul-striking—you’ll leave with tools to connect faster and more deeply in your own life.Women Work Fucking Hard (organization co-founded by Lindsay)Lindsay’s Instagram: @shookusshookusGirls5eva (Paula Pell’s show, referenced in the episode)30 Rock (where Lindsay was an associate producer, mentioned in the SNL discussion)New York Times article on the role of playful small talk in connection NYT article on belated thank-you notes and the power of gratitude

In this episode of The Connection Code, Jeana and Rachel lean into a back-to-school mindset to explore the lessons we’ve learned about friendship over the years. From middle school buttons that reminded us of “the friends we’ve yet to meet” to the adult reality of friendship seasons, group dynamics, and the roles we play in our circles, this conversation gets candid about belonging, wayfinding, and why it often takes a leader to bring people together.We also share stories of A+ friends who showed up in memorable ways, reflect on how friendships evolve in adulthood, and talk about the homework we’d give anyone looking to deepen their connections.Stay tuned until the end for our “show and tell” — a card deck Jeana is creating for couples at Petite Acres and a gratitude practice Rachel discovered that might inspire your own rituals.Books mentioned:Bowling Alone by Robert PutnamFriends by Robin DunbarBelong by Radha AgrawalUnreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaraBraving the Wilderness by Brené BrownThe Art of Gathering by Priya ParkerOther references:Meople – custom conversation cards Jeana collaborated with for Petite Acres couplesNew York Times article on belated thank-you notes Follow us:Jeana on LinkedIn and on InstagramRachel on LinkedIn and on Instagram

What happens when a connection fails—and what do we learn from it? In this special episode, Rachel and Jeana welcome Rachel’s sister, Laura Engelbret, a fluent Spanish speaker and longtime English Language (EL) teacher, who shares her powerful story of moving to Oaxaca, Mexico after college.What began as a dream of adventure turned into one of Laura’s hardest moments of rejection—but also a turning point that shaped her career, her resilience, and her philosophy on connection. Laura takes us from that difficult experience to her 13+ years as an educator, where she now helps immigrant students and their families feel safe, welcomed, and at home in new communities.Along the way, Jeana and Rachel reflect on their own “connection fails” and the lessons they learned from being fish out of water. Together, the conversation explores resilience, empathy, and the practical and emotional work it takes to build bridges in life, work, and school.If you’ve ever felt out of place—or wondered how to help others feel like they belong—this episode will inspire and encourage you to rethink what real connection means.Other media we discussed:"The Happiness Project" by Gretchen Rubin"Bowling Alone" by Robert PutnamRaj Chetty’s study on cross-class friendshipsThe Art of Gathering by Priya ParkerFollow us!Rachel on Instagram and LinkedInJeana on Instagram and LinkedInLaura on Instagram and LinkedIn

In this episode of The Connection Code, we sit down with Tim Huelskamp. He's the CEO and co-founder of 1440, creator of a thriving Jeffersonian dinner series, and one of the most generous connectors we know. Tim shares how his upbringing shaped his curiosity, why “closing the loop” is one of the most powerful (and underused) networking habits, and the intentional ways he curates gatherings to spark meaningful relationships across industries.From his company’s vision to blend knowledge with in-person experiences, to his Saturday ritual of making thoughtful introductions, Tim offers both big-picture inspiration and practical tactics for anyone looking to deepen their connections. We also swap stories about the magic that happens when you bring the right people together, the role of specificity in asking for help, and why generosity is a winning long-term strategy in both life and business.Whether you’re a natural connector or looking to strengthen your networking skills, this episode will inspire you to lead with curiosity, quality, and a willingness to help first.Show Notes Links to Include:Subscribe to 1440’s daily newsletterConnect with Tim Huelskamp on LinkedInLearn more about Fifth Star Funds — supporting underrepresented founders with critical early-stage fundingRead The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker⁠Follow Jeana on LinkedIn⁠Follow Rachel on LinkedIn

In this episode of The Connection Code, Rachel and Jeana sit down with the brilliant and refreshingly candid Rebecca Jarvis, Chief Business Correspondent for ABC News, host of The Dropout, and executive producer of the Emmy-winning Hulu series of the same name.From her roots in Minnesota to the national stage, Rebecca shares the winding path that led her to where she is today — including a tough first job in investment banking, a bold career pivot into journalism, and the behind-the-scenes grind that preceded her “overnight success.” She opens up about the power of following your curiosity, the importance of small side projects that spark joy, and the lessons she's learned about trust, friendship, and resilience along the way.You’ll also hear:How Rebecca built real connections in an industry often marked by competitionHer advice to anyone impatiently waiting to “build a network”A vulnerable, honest conversation about fertility and redefining ambitionThe creative side hustle that unexpectedly changed her careerWhy calling a friend midday might be the ritual your friendships needIt’s a conversation full of insight, warmth, and wisdom — and a reminder that your most meaningful momentum often begins with a genuine connection.

This week on The Connection Code, Jeana and Rachel explore a topic that hits close to home—literally. With Jeana now living in Michigan and Rachel still in Chicago, the duo dives into what it really takes to maintain a long-distance friendship. From intentionality and communication cadences to low-lift check-ins (hello, memes and voice notes) and meaningful milestones, they unpack how to keep friendships thriving across miles.Along the way, they share stories about pandemic reconnections, vacation friends who become real friends, and even whether or not it’s helpful—or just a little sorority-core—to keep a “friendship spreadsheet.” You’ll walk away with practical tips and some laugh-out-loud metaphors (including a bathtub, Jacuzzi, and pool classification system for your inner circle).Plus: A dreamy dinner party recommendation in Chicago, an ode to snail mail, and a shoutout to Danielle Robay’s interview with Scooter Braun.Whether you’re maintaining a lifelong bond or rekindling a faded connection, this episode is your guide to hugging your people—even if it’s just via text.

Rachel and Jeana sit down with author, journalist, and MSNBC anchor Alicia Menendez to unpack the deeply relatable tension explored in her book The Likability Trap. Together, they explore what it means to be both respected and liked at work and why women are so often forced to choose. Alicia shares personal experiences, expert insights, and behind-the-scenes moments from her journey through journalism, publishing, and producing a Broadway show.The conversation spans everything from the power of early support in someone’s journey, to the art of making and keeping friendships through life’s busiest seasons. Alicia also drops real-world advice on building authentic (and sometimes transactional) relationships, why specificity matters when networking, and how to ask for help (even when it feels hard).If you’ve ever felt the pressure to thread the needle between warmth and ambition, or wondered how to maintain connection through life’s chaos, this one’s for you.Follow everyone you hear in this episode:Alicia Menendez Jeana Anderson CohenRachel Gilman Rischall

In this special episode, Rachel and Jeana welcome Rebecca Rosen—renowned spiritual medium, best-selling author, and host of the Small Medium at Large podcast. A dream guest for Rachel (and longtime source of spiritual inspiration), Rebecca shares how she first discovered her gift, what it means to be a medium, and how anyone can start tuning into their own intuition.They talk about listening to “life’s whispers,” the comfort and clarity that can come from connecting with the other side, and how Rebecca views mortality and purpose through a spiritual lens. You’ll hear practical tips for recognizing signs, insights into what “heaven” might feel like, and stories that may just change the way you see the world around you.Plus, don’t miss the full-circle moment of Rachel’s manifestation journey that brought this conversation to life.Follow Rebecca on Instagram at @mediumrebeccarosenThank you for listening to The Connection Code with Rachel and Jeana. This production is edited by Ben Kliever.

In this deeply moving episode, Rachel and Jeana sit down with Sarrah Bentley, former Broadway showgirl, yoga entrepreneur, breast cancer survivor, mom, and founder of A Chance for Life, a nonprofit funding surrogacy journeys for breast cancer survivors.Together, they explore what it truly means to show up for people during life’s hardest seasons and how to accept help when you’re the one in need. Sarrah opens up about her own experience navigating an aggressive cancer diagnosis during COVID, her unexpected village of support, her radical approach to staying embodied through movement, and the miraculous journey to her son, Chance.Along the way, the conversation touches on vulnerability, spirituality, finding joy in the messiest moments (a practice Sarrah calls joy mining) and how connections, both online and IRL, have shaped her survival and purpose.If you need a dose of perspective, hope, or permission to slow down and savor the sweetness that exists alongside struggle, this episode will stay with you long after you listen.Listen in for stories about:How to show up (and how to ask!) when someone is going through something hardThe power of being specific when offering or requesting helpThe life-changing impact of a single supportive conversationSarrah’s candid, joyful take on motherhood after surrogacyWhy perfection is boring and joy is always worth miningFollow everyone you hear in this episode:Jeana Anderson CohenRachel Gillman RischallSarrah Strimel Bentley

In this very special 10th episode of The Connection Code, the microphones are flipped as Rachel’s twin daughters, Kayla and Shira, take the lead. What follows is a candid, funny, and deeply heartfelt conversation about what it means to connect—with yourself, with friends, and with the world around you.Before the twins step in, Jeana and Rachel open up about what it’s like trying to show up fully in relationships while navigating overwhelm. They talk about mental health, the myth of multitasking, and the emotional cost of doing too much. Rachel shares a moving story about how her friendship radar was wrong at first impressions, and Jeana brings in insights from Reddit on rejection and connection.Then the twins join, and we’re treated to some surprisingly thoughtful (and adorably unfiltered) questions and insights. The girls ask what makes a connection meaningful, how to know if it’s a good one, and whether their moms have really taught them anything about friendship. The result? A cross-generational conversation that reminds us connection can start anywhere—at school, camp, or even a bowling alley.

In this heartfelt and hilarious episode of The Connection Code, Jeana and Rachel sit down with Kevin Boehm - restaurateur, storyteller, and author of forthcoming book "The Bottomless Cup." They open the show reflecting on their own bold life moves—Jeana quitting a job after one day, Rachel moving to Chicago without a job—and then dive into Kevin’s extraordinary journey: from his early restaurant hustle to co-founding the award-winning Boka Restaurant Group.Kevin shares how ambition once filled a void in his life, the emotional toll of connection in hospitality, and how he’s learning to live more authentically in his second act. With vulnerability, laughter, and one unforgettable bobcat story, this episode is a masterclass in personal reinvention, friendship, and the power of dropping the mask.References:Kevin's upcoming book – The Bottomless CupBrené Brown – Braving the WildernessBrené Brown – Atlas of the HeartRobin Dunbar - Friends: Understanding the Power of our Most Important RelationshipsAmy Poehler’s Podcast - Good HangFriendship (Upcoming film starring Paul Rudd and Tim Robinson)Robin Dunbar – “Sex Differences in Close Friendships and Social Style”Generous Assumptions – A Brené Brown principle on approaching others’ behavior with compassion

This week on The Connection Code, it’s just Jeana and Rachel—and they’re diving into everything from cold emails to wedding thank-you notes to the group trip that never was.Rachel unveils her “Compliment Theory”—a simple but powerful method for building meaningful connections with people you admire. Spoiler: Mark Cuban, Kara Swisher, and Tom Costello have all written back. Jeana asks how this applies to starting fresh in a new town, and together they brainstorm a game plan for creating community from scratch.In Show & Tell, Jeana shares why “conspicuous creation” (aka creating in public) helped make Petite Acres a reality, while Rachel brings the most jaw-dropping Wall Street Journal group chat drama you’ve ever heard. They break down why group trips fail, why someone must be in charge, and why “we should” isn’t a plan.Plus: how to build rituals to keep friendships strong, what to do when your thank-you notes get critiqued, and a tear-worthy Connection Conversation spotlighting astronaut and IVF advocate Kellie Gerardi.