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 of Inside the Wellspace 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.