Does This Happen to You

Dynamite, Fake Cats and A Poodle on the Chicken


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Jennifer K. grew up with the kind of childhood logic that only makes sense when you’re small, earnest, and absolutely convinced you’re prepared for anything. In this narrated collection of short memoirs, she shares three unforgettable stories from her early years—each one equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and deeply human.

First, there’s the family code for amusement parks and malls: if you get separated, don’t yell “Mom!”—yell “Dynamite!” Jennifer explains how that became the official emergency word and got used a lot.

Then she tells the story of desperately wanting a cat… and being told to make one. Literally. Needle, thread, scraps of fabric, and a child’s determination came together to create an “artificial cat” she slept with for years. Today, as an adult, she’s never without a real, living cat by her side.

And finally, the night she proudly cooked dinner for her siblings and her grandpa, only to discover their teacup poodle standing triumphantly on top of the chicken, devouring as much as possible. She met her grandpa at the door, holding a very juicy dog. The menu got changed to pizza.

This episode blends humor, nostalgia, and the small, strange moments that shape who we become. Perfect for fans of memoir, family stories, and childhood chaos.

Welcome to the Does This Happen to You show, where life's absurdities take center stage—told by the women and men who have lived them. Ever found yourself utterly perplexed by the world? You’re not alone! This show is a collection of laugh-out-loud, first-person stories from female writers and the occasional male writer, sharing their real-life experiences with wit, charm, and a touch of bemusement. Whether it’s navigating social mishaps, deciphering life’s oddities, or simply embracing the delightful chaos of everyday moments, these stories will have you nodding in recognition and chuckling in solidarity.


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Does This Happen to YouBy Kris Keppeler

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