Podcast Summary: Trading Secrets Episode 246: Rachael Kirkconnell: Navigating Breakups, Professional Paths & What’s Next Release Date: August 4, 2025
Host: Audioboom Studios
Guest: Rachel Kirkconnell

Introduction

In Episode 246 of Trading Secrets, host David interviews Rachel Kirkconnell, a beloved figure from Season 25 of The Bachelor. The episode delves into Rachel’s personal and professional journey following her high-profile breakup with Matt James in January 2025. Rachel shares her experiences navigating life after reality TV, building her personal brand, and exploring new career avenues.

Handling the Breakup and Public Scrutiny

Rachel opens up about the emotional aftermath of her breakup with Matt James and the intense public scrutiny that followed.

[01:06] Rachel Kirkconnell: "This year's definitely not what I thought it was gonna be. So I'm right now just, like, going with the flow, figuring out what life looks like right now because, again, doesn't look like how I thought it would, but I'm loving it. It's been fun."

David commends Rachel for her grace in managing the public’s reaction, especially her appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast—a moment that went viral.

[01:20] David: "Well, you handled everything with grace. I mean, that call her daddy interview, looking back on it, can you believe how big that was?"

Rachel expresses her surprise at the massive public response and her intention to share her side of the story respectfully.

[02:24] Rachel Kirkconnell: "I just wanted to make sure it wasn't going to be like a... I'm not here to, like, talk shit... I just wanted to just get the truth out there in my piece."

Navigating Personal and Professional Identity

The conversation shifts to how Rachel’s relationship had intertwined with her career and identity, and how she is now redefining herself independently.

[16:02] Rachel Kirkconnell: "It's just...for the longest time I wouldn't have a career without being in a relationship... It felt like either him or me and him. But I just felt like it was never me."

Rachel highlights the challenges she faced when her professional opportunities were often tied to her relationship with Matt, leading to a loss of personal identity.

Mental Health and Social Media Impact

Rachel discusses the toll that social media and public relationships can take on mental health, emphasizing the importance of self-validation over external approval.

[09:34] Rachel Kirkconnell: "You are the source of your own happiness and no matter what, that you're going to be okay and stand up on your own with or without that person."

She shares her struggles with negative comments and the pressure of maintaining an authentic presence online.

[50:58] Rachel Kirkconnell: "My biggest struggle... putting myself out there and like I hate the idea of being perceived... I gotta stop."

Future Career Aspirations

Rachel reveals her aspirations beyond social media, including voice acting and developing her own business ventures.

[38:52] Rachel Kirkconnell: "I have always been obsessed with animation and cartoons and I really think that I could do well in voice acting... I would love to dabble in that if the opportunity ever presents itself."

She expresses a desire to transition from relying on social media income to building sustainable business models that align with her passions.

Thoughts on Reality TV and Future Projects

Rachel reflects on her potential return to reality TV, weighing the pros and cons based on her past experiences.

[27:15] Rachel Kirkconnell: "I don't know if I could put myself through that again, honestly. Yeah, and I just don't know if I would trust any of the guys or the producer."

She discusses reasons for considering shows like Dancing with the Stars over returning to The Bachelor franchise, citing a preference for personal growth and authentic connections over competitive environments.

Advice and Trading Secret

Concluding the episode, Rachel shares her personal advice on maintaining authenticity and self-worth amidst the pressures of public life.

[51:37] Rachel Kirkconnell: "The best version of yourself is the most authentic version... try to just be as authentic as possible... that makes you so beautiful."

David echoes the importance of inward validation, summarizing Rachel’s key takeaway.

[53:53] David: "When you seek validation from others, it's when you lose yourself the most. Inward validation is when you make the biggest impact."

Closing Remarks

Rachel provides her social media handles, highlighting the challenges of maintaining genuine connections online due to impersonation and negativity. The episode wraps up with appreciation for Rachel’s openness and the valuable insights she provided on navigating personal growth and professional development post-reality TV fame.

Notable Quotes

• Rachel Kirkconnell at [01:06]: "This year's definitely not what I thought it was gonna be. So I'm right now just, like, going with the flow..."
• Rachel Kirkconnell at [09:34]: "You are the source of your own happiness..."
• Rachel Kirkconnell at [51:37]: "The best version of yourself is the most authentic version..."
• David at [07:12]: "Are you happy that you did? Do you have any regrets for doing so?"

Key Takeaways

• Authenticity Matters: Rachel emphasizes living authentically and not relying on external validation for happiness.
• Personal Growth Post-Fame: Transitioning from a high-profile relationship to independent personal and professional growth.
• Mental Health Awareness: Acknowledging the impact of social media and public scrutiny on mental well-being.
• Exploring New Avenues: Rachel’s interest in voice acting and sustainable business ventures as future career paths.

For more insights and detailed discussions on financial navigation and personal growth, tune into future episodes of Trading Secrets.