Resilience and Trauma: How Jessica Chapel Reclaimed Her Life

What does it take to break free from your past and rebuild a life on your own terms?

At just 26, Jes Chapel is a rising voice at Condé Nast Traveler, covering fashion, travel, and luxury—but her real story runs much deeper. In this raw and revealing conversation, Jes sits down with Cathy O’Brien to share her journey through childhood trauma, the loss of her father, and growing up in unstable, unsafe environments. She opens up about declaring legal independence at 17, the emotional cost of caretaking, and the healing power of writing, education, and chosen family.

This episode is about resilience in its realest form—messy, nonlinear, and deeply human. If you’ve ever felt shaped by your circumstances but still hopeful for something more, Jessica’s story is proof that your past doesn’t have to define your future.

TIMESTAMPS: 

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:02 Defining Resilience and Trauma

05:57 Early Life and Family Dynamics

08:57 The Impact of Loss and Transition

11:53 Navigating Childhood Trauma

14:46 Living with Family and Coping Strategies

15:24 Navigating Caretaking Roles

17:50 Coping Mechanisms and Resilience

20:50 Finding Independence and Stability

23:48 The Journey to Self-Discovery

26:50 Embracing Change and Growth

29:46 Using Trauma as a Catalyst for Change

32:57 Reflections on Grief and Resilience

34:56 Navigating Personal Growth and Self-Compassion

36:29 Breaking Patterns and Family Dynamics

39:33 Choosing Love Over Fear

45:06 Empowerment Through Chosen Family and New Relationships

SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@UC13tfnPU0OHsNxmMXSs6saw Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2TQtov8ByjgieslPS5B1IM Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inside-the-wellspace-women-wellbeing-wisdom-with/id1812799800Visit The Well Space for Women: https://www.insidethewellspace.com/Follow along on Instagram: @thewellspaceforwomen https://www.instagram.com/thewellspaceforwomen/