Zach & Rachel: Meant to Be?

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Speaker 1: Hello Batch, our Happy Hour. We're back again this week with another recap of what is the Snow episode? Drea Michelle. Yes, I feel wow, this is going fast. It is I will. I feel like I was gonna 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 sweating. 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 wentz 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 gonna 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 guys of like stuff that we didn't see, So that will be 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 chatted a little bit before this and we have a few key points of the 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 threes a crowd, and we see a face that we have been missing since clean 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 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 day 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 great, 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 one 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 gonna spend the rest of your life with. And typically when you go through anything like that, like you have family and friends buy you to like confide 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 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 and 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 completely 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 somebody that they know that they've known for a while. Like, I think it's so important and I think it could help on both ends, like really solidify certain relationships. So I was so happy. It was such a random date do that Grandpa John go on and they like did this meditation sound bath and then they were bowling and dropped. My favorite part though, was when they first saw Grandpa John and picked him up and they put him in the backseat middle and he's just sitting there bouncing in the back with the little him different though, but I was like, damn, Eric, at least give him like shotgun. I don't know, I don't know if her grandpa had the choice. I loved it though. I was like my favorite part of the episode. I was just like I was in the middle of movie as I was watching this, so I'm like packing up stuff. But the second I heard Grandpa John, I was like, I gotta just stop what I'm doing just to watch. 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 Batch her show. This man better be on the show. This man better be the lead. He needs to 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 what were your thoughts on Hayden telling Gabby she's refer 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, you 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 in 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 come 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 too. 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 hurt 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 your rough ground the edges and like just like our moral tone aren't the same or 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 Haydn understands what rough around the edges means like, 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 reffron the edges, because no edges 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 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 me too. It was it was I think what it was. It was it was showcased in a way where it seemed like a lesser value, and like that was my issue, right and again like comparing, and when I said, like the technically, like who'se 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 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. But I saw that conversation as a reflection of him, not a reflection of Gabby. Oh one thousand percent, yeah, But the conversation really irked me. It 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 stopped, like this is not your season. But when Jacob goes, uh, 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 and cake dirt, Jacob, like that is gonna make That's my thing? Is where did you learn that? Like, Okay, cool things 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 like it makes no sense. It makes no sense. And it's like the situation where like sometimes I feel like relationships, relationships and even the shows like it's romanticized, right, and it's like those are things that can be a part of relationships and can be this like magical thing, but like this is the man that rode in on a horse like night like that that's what you do with I just don't like that, you know, is 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 whatever. I don't. I think it was oh god, it was clearentatious sis. And there was one guy 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 vibing with you, but you're still hot. It's like cool, thanks, bro, Like I don't know, I just it's like they feel like that that's what we want to hear. It's like that's not all. 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. 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 gonna 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, it's wild. Well, I think it will 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 Till Now, and she'll also spill all of the tea from her performance during Rage 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 Nashville, so I'm like trying to like, like I just like get a little cooler. I'm like, defrost. It's not the right word, but you'll look like you're glowing in that Nashville heat um where 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, So, like, take me back to that performance that night. What were what was going to your mind when only Rachel stepped through those stores. 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, if 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 wanted. 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 too, which was really cool that 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 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 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 the show before performing on the show. I've watched a couple of seasons. Um. I was in a sorority in college. We used to always have like a watch parties. But I've had some I've had some friends on the show before, so I've watched like a few seasons, but I'm not like an avid watcher of it. I would you say, did it ever cross your mind that it might be like the opera or the it potentially could just be the bachelor walking in by herself, or that didn't cross your mind until like it happened, you know, or like does he going to the bathroom as he like, where's yet? Not at all? I did not think. I honestly was like, 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 a Katie season or somebody. I don't know, I happened 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 past comes out to be like this has happened four other times this season and this season, so we will. We will be checked very lately. Did you have the opportunity afterwards to talk to Rachel's and actually tell Rachel what you just told us off like you wrote it to manifest somebody in the future and of like that how it kind of could not like bonded you, but I guess it, Yeah, felt that could. 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 gonna be what it's gonna 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 have the chance to talk about the fact that it really did it was the exact same situation that I wrote it for. Um. 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 feeling, you know, what she was thinking, and you could tell in her mind she was just kind of like introspectively, you know, realizing like wow, okay, like I deserve this kind of love. You know this these lyrics in 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. UM. So you know, even if we didn't say it, I think it was kind of the unspoken thing that she just kind of felt. Mind, 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 the 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 just 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 to 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, do 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 that day, like right before we performed, I mean, it was kind of it was kind of an interesting I was like, man, this this guy's really cute and me super cool and but again, it just shows like you know, you know when 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. It's still fresh because like I feel like, you just meet these people, need to like make a call if you like them or if you don't like them. Right away. It was difficult, Like I'm the most person on the planet, so I think I feel like the worst bachelorette the world because I'd be like, they're all great. Wait, actually 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, that's like Paradise. Yeah it's a contestant. Yeah, Bachelor in Paradise twenty twenty three. You know, I don't know. No, you got to be a contested first before Paradise. No, you don't. We're just gonna shake up the rules. Okay, I mean, hey, I think it. No, she could clearly run her own bachelorette show. I mean, you never know, actually try, but like, you know, I don't know. I think ittte. I'm like, I don't know. Gosh, She's like, I'll come on and just perform in the background the entire time and sing to everyone. I'll serenade. 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. Cook 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 of months ago, and so we're working on I like debut album, Thank You so Much. 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 of 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 or 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, mister 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 Howe. We're really excited to have you. Are you nervous? Very? 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, not me only Becca. I don't even bite. It's like you 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 first date was with Rachel. Um. So before we get into all of that, how did you get on the show? Were you a fan of of it before? Did you? Did somebody reach out and ask you to apply? Yeah? So I didn't hear much of you know, Bachelor too much. I mean, my sister h and my mom are big fans. 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 about two years ago I was single. You know, working on myself and I had a friend of mine, actually Daniel Tulley 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 and 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 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 just hiding together? What's the next question? Keeping this on our toes? I like it? Well? So, okay, so you said he said a friend Daniel right um with did he have to 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. He's the one that came in on that a little toy player fighter. And then PJ was if I gave him the real one? Yeah, they did him dirty on that. I'll tell you to your question. He you know, he came back from you know, the show and he had a great experience, and um, he's like, hey, I'm I'm gonna throw your hat in the ring. Um you know, I'm not gonna like stop you Like, I'm gonna 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 should be happy 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. My stomach dropped. I was like, how do you actually do this now? Like it it feels like it's already you know such you know a 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 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 racking when you first meet them, like coming out of the limo and you're like, wow, how how am I going to do this? Like you don't you kind of learn on the fly. Um, But I mean overall, it was just it was incredible. So as if it wasn't hard enough classes Okay, wait, so remind us remind back 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 blocked 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 gonna 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, at night one, I didn't have the chance to speak with either of the women. I was one of the many that, um, 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, oh, I guess like they don't know who who we are. Um. It wasn't until the next cocktail party, UM that I actually met Rachel and we did a knee golfer put 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 and they 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 I don't need you know, anything else, any other you know, validation for this, Like I think she's the ones for this. So the one when you when you started that date, 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 aback 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 day, just to see how everything went down. You had such a cool freaking date. Seriously, seriously, Oh how star struck were you with not even the fact that you met Kamo, but that he styled you. You guys were like having footpaths drinking champagne together, Like what was going I think you said, 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 Ragel or yeah, if you end up with Rachel, right, like like red Carpets are this is now your it doesn't have to be it. I mean it was pretty cool. I don't mean 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, Like 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 cleansed 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. Um. And then it just 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, didn't me right so the first out, but you came out and it was a little iffy that first one. I was like, oh, did you like at the first out? It no, no, what I showed up in. No. No, I remember like just immediately like, oh this is this one's gonna hurt. Yeah, But I think I think about those situations though, is it. 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 extravagance um date 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. Becca, you went on the shopping date, didn't you. Well, so Zach as you're as you're talking through just like how uncomfortable parts of 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 um, 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 designers their Rachel Zoe, who literally like, I 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 Tit's out in front of Rachel Zoe and I'm like, um, is this what this entire season is 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 in a lifetime opportunity 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 gonna 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 it was there that point I know that you said, Rachel kind of helped you just like feel more comfortable than 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 gonna go all in and like make this the best day possible for not only me but for this incredible woman. Yeah. Absolutely, Like right at the beginning, you know, we're doing the foot massage cleans and it's 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 and just thinking, you know, like this is an incredible opportunity. There's there's no reason for me to be really scared or nervous. Rachel's incredible, this is an incredible experience. I'm just it is going to be in the moment, enjoy it. I mean, obviously it's unique and once in a lifetime. And Karma's right out there giving me a VERSACEI or whatever suit there is, and I'm like I came in in a T shirt and jeans, like right, and this is not typically what I do. But there's a moment where it just clicks and you enjoy it. So I think it's right. I think it's the well, it's 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 Karma said, like what is the best advice that he gave you? And Rachel Karma was great first off, he's hilarious in person. I mean, the guy who just not stopped cracking jokes. But to be honest, right, you know, right in the the very beginning of it, you know, we went straight to it. We were really just, um, you know, addressing um, 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 um, you know, she deserves you know, all the love in the world in respect, and I we were trying to figure out and see if I could be that you know man for her. And um, 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 Coromo 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 left going to movie theater like sure, it could be literally any movie, and I'm like, cool, let's go see it, like is it Top Gun? Exactly? Thinking 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, hump, I haven't heard of that movie before, Like that's kind of that's yeah. I was definitely definitely and 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 letter from Cromo, uh 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 like, I know these actors and actresses in this movie, it was really just like hiring them to watch that though with you, because because your actually emotions and feelings were incredibly genuine with what you were feeling, Like I know that I got I teared up over here, Like I teared up as both of you guys teered up. Did you do everything? Yeah? It was cute. I'm so Jack. I'm sorry I did not tear up. I did not. Moments and 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 were you know the childhood videos being played, but you know, our our family sending a message and it was them showing their support for us, and I, you know, I needed to see that and it I just you know a little bit of waterworks came, but it was it was special with Rachel and you know, it was great. One thing that and I just thought of this because you know, when you come on the show and when I don't think anyone realizes is like prior to like act 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 water works is like being able to see your mom and like hear her voice after being away and not talking to her for someone 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 and 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, till the end, and I just I was not expecting it, and uh, you know, Mama's boy at heart. So 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 in 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 uh, you know, I knew she she's a pilot going into it um and you know that helps you know, get to know. But then after that, it was just like, no, it's this this person for who she is there's something here and um ant flying is pretty awesome, So um, 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 had his pilot SLCE 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 that takes a couple of months to get a pilot's license. I was going to say, like, are you going for the private pilot license? Are not like the commercial license? Correct? Yeah? Just private? Just private. Well, there's certain classes that you like class A and I believe Class A and and those are just different, uh like thresholds or regulations that you clear, um through testing. I'm not a pro or expert. I'm only hearing this from 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. But gosh, we having kids we gotta get girl who could fly planes. I was I was like, we got to just call up Rachel and perforate 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 stirccle 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, 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 Rows, 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 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, uh Avan 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 you know, it felt great just knowing, you know, what I had with Rachel 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 anyone specific, but I know that there were still some guys at that point that really didn't uh you know, speak with either Gabia, 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 um, you know, choose. So there's a few guys that, um, you know, and none that come to mind where I'd be like, you know that guy, Oh, he's done for he's gonna get in trouble. But when I learned after the fact that um, it was tense and that there were some rejected roses, I mean, that's the last thing you want. Yeah, it just it made her you know, upset. So that was that was the worst case, the worst And that's actually something I want to ask you about because you know, when when the women are hated out these roses one by one, like you guys are all outside who are safe kind of watching in and seeing the men either accept or deny the roses. And at one point both women and walked out to have a conversation. And what 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 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 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 and I mean the last thing she should feel is embarrassed because um, as everyone knows, she's an incredible woman. And if there are guys that happen to reject her and and not see that in her. You're better off without them, You don't, you don't need that in your life. There's you know, there's people out there for you. Um we have you know us, you know, we're the Rachel guys, and I mean we see something in you. We we have your back through through it all, and um, 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 it's painful, and it's tough, and no one, no one ever likes to be told no and be you know, rejected. But you know there's there's incredible, you know, people out there for you, and you know, we want your heart. So that's probably what I yeah, yeah, oh that's I want to get that. Yeah. Yeah, that's 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 that. I mean, it's not easy and she's still handled incredibly well. So I'm happy she I'm right now in the season. I'm happy that she has somebody like you too, you know, I am too. Oh my gosh, am I getting an emotional now. Damn, I know what is happening to this week? So zachly I want to get into UM. Well, we're going to ask you the Rosenthorne, 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 gonna be difficult. If you can sum up the rest of this season in a little phrase or a couple of words, what would it be? Incredibly romantic? Oh? Oh, okays, like no one had a good journey. 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 find in the spoilers, I know nothing with Rachel or Gabby. I don't know final for our 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 now, I'm placing my bets. I'm already placed it. Let's go U. But for real, Zach, this is a question you can answer, um, And I'm just gonna 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 uh, 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 myself. I was like, really did I not look twice? And why did none of my friends tell me, dude, don't wear that. I came at the perfect time. Yeah, oh I needed it. I need He's kind of changed my whole thought process now for what I wear. So but then that was my thorn. And then my rose was when Rachel and I were dancing on stage two 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 thorn, I will say you would a damn good week if that's your fam. I mean, it was. It was an unreal week, Like it doesn't even feel real still still all right, Michelle, what about you? I like that. I also like how 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 I reign. I'm just kidding, but no, I would say that my rose was just watching Zack and Rachel in this moment where you know, 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 emotions 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 show that together was shut kiss. It was awesome. The thorn would have to be Um, what's what's his? Jacob, what is it? No? The one the one who was like, you're rough around the edges, Hayden, Hayden, Hayden, Yeah, Hayden saying your rough around the edges, Gabby. All I have to say is like what I say to my fifth grader is when something doesn't come out nice rephrase, I try again. Yeah, I'm gonna 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. Um, what are we twelve? No, So that's my thorn and my rose is definitely Grandpa John. Yeah, that's it, Grandpa John. I want our 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. Um, 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. I really enjoyed Zach. I did, I didn't. 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. Hm. He seems very genuine and that's what I like about him. Yeah, he isn't even but confident. Something that I noticed on his day with Rachel and seeing the two of them interacts, like he seems like a calming presence for her, which I even picked up on the podcast. I think like he's going to be a safe place for her throughout this entire season, which YE always need. So what embraces like the like weird just situations you're put in on the show. Totally? Yeah, yeah, very well roaded. 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 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 gotta 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 on every Tuesday, but you also don't want to miss the all new episodes. You can ca the new ones of The Bachelor at every Monday on ABC or Hulu and make sure it hits 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 Boucher 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 Wondery Plus in Apple Podcasts or the Wondering App. Thank you Betta, and thank you everyone, and we will see you next week. Bye,