— About The Show
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The BoatHouse Girls - a Podcast about growing up GenX in the Midwest
What We're About
The “BoatHouse Girls” is a heartfelt podcast hosted by cousins Becky and Rachelle, who grew up like sisters in the upper Midwest during the vibrant 1980s. Together, they revisit the joys and challenges of girlhood in a generation shaped by pop culture, shifting social norms, and unforgettable cultural icons. Each episode explores themes ranging from identity struggles amid big hair and cassette tapes to the bonds of family dynamics and life‑altering experiences that continue to shape their lives today as women in their 50s.
Blending humor, nostalgia, and candid reflection, Becky and Rachelle share stories of playground games, childhood escapades, and the art of navigating relationships while finding one’s voice. They dissect the cultural phenomena of their youth and offer insights into modern challenges faced by women today, creating a bridge between past and present. Their conversations invite listeners to connect with their own memories, reflect on shared experiences, and celebrate the enduring spirit of Generation X.
With warmth, laughter, and authenticity, “Boathouse Girls” reminds us that sometimes the best therapy is simply a chat with your cousin. New episodes drop twice a month, offering a regular dose of nostalgia and meaningful conversation
Rachelle Downey
The Tall One
Say hello to Rachelle, a proud Gen X eldest daughter who survived the '80s and '90s relatively intact. She started life on a farm in North Dakota (yes, she was a tomboy), before moving to the Midwest for her chaotic teen and college years. She eventually found a home (and a degree) at the University of Kansas—so, Rock Chalk, Jayhawk!
Early in her 30 plus years as an educator, she traded in the frostbite of the midwest for the never-ending heat of south Texas where she found a second “family” of friends. Today, she still misses fall weather of the north and resides with her very patient and supportive husband, Sean, and the two furry bosses of the house, Bonnie and Bella. Rachelle belongs to the generation of women who have formally refused to accept the traditional "elder" stereotype. When she’s not busy proving that her voice only gets stronger (and louder!) with age, you can find her aggressively cheering on college basketball, debating whether to play U2 or Taylor Swift, and attempting to read a book while simultaneously sipping a well-deserved glass of Pinot Grigio. She’s proof that Gen X is not going quietly.
Becky Bartholomay
The Talkative One
Becky, a North Dakota native who crossed the border 20 years ago, has proudly called Minnesota home ever since. A true upper-Midwesterner, she loves chatting with friends and strangers, potluck gatherings, and those famously long Midwestern goodbyes. For more than two decades, Becky taught English, sharing her passion for literature and theater with thousands of students. Her favorite memories aren’t about lesson plans but about the people—students, colleagues, and companions—who shaped her journey.
Raised in a small town with little money, Becky once thought traveling the world was impossible. Yet she found ways to make it happen at every stage of life. Each trip left her with stories, not about destinations, but about the people she met along the way. Her ever-present smile reflects that joy. Now, in full Gen X, “Goonies never say die” spirit, Becky is transitioning into new work focused on faith and justice. With her dogs, Annie and Tank, she roams country trails or hugs her backyard maple tree. She dances freely at concerts and in her kitchen, cherishes time with family and friends, and laughs with abandon over a Cosmo or martini.
Show must go on.
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Amazing show by Jason, by far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia. I am really looking forward to work together for the next project.
I love this show, by far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia. I am really looking forward to work together for the next project.
Jason is a great stroyteller, by far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia. I am really looking forward to work together for the next project.
Amazing show by Jason, by far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia. I am really looking forward to work together for the next project.
I love this show, by far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia. I am really looking forward to work together for the next project.
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