Podcast Summary: Barely Famous – "Coming Together As A United Front Part 2"
Release Date: March 24, 2025
Host: Kale Lowry
Guest: Javi Marroquin and Elijah Scott Williams
Introduction
In the 37th episode of Barely Famous titled "Coming Together As A United Front Part 2," host Kale Lowry delves deep into the complexities of co-parenting across state lines. This episode features an intimate and raw conversation between Kale and co-parenting partner Javi Marroquin as they navigate the challenges of raising their son, Lincoln, amidst potential geographic relocations and the demands of their families' commitments. Additionally, guest Elijah Scott Williams joins the discussion, bringing his unique perspective to the table.
Co-Parenting Across State Lines
The episode opens with Kale setting the stage for a candid discussion about the logistical and emotional challenges of co-parenting when parents reside in different states.
Kale Lowry [00:02]: "Welcome to the shit show. Things are going to get weird. It's your fave villain, Kale Lowry, and you're listening to Barely Famous."
Javi Marroquin [00:26]: "Yeah, we have no choice. We're talented up. To do what?"
Communication and Information Sharing
A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the necessity of maintaining transparent communication regarding Lincoln’s schedules, appointments, and extracurricular activities.
Kale Lowry [00:29]: "To co-parent? To communicate, to relay information. Because I do think that when there's an extra layer of being across state lines... you let me know."
Javi Marroquin [01:03]: "I just don't know if you understand... how much more workload... is coming onto your plate without me being here."
Javi expresses concern over the increased responsibilities Kale will bear in managing Lincoln’s activities without his presence, highlighting the potential stress and logistical hurdles.
Balancing Sports Commitments
Lincoln's participation in travel sports is a focal point, emphasizing the commitment required from both parents to support his interests.
Javi Marroquin [03:28]: "Lincoln's in travel soccer, we're committing to him. I mean, Lincoln is at an age. We are behind the curve."
Kale Lowry [03:46]: "Right? But I ended up making it work."
While Kale reassures her ability to manage Lincoln’s sports schedule, Javi remains apprehensive about the sustainability of this arrangement, fearing that it may lead to overextension and potential burnout.
Potential Relocation to Virginia
The discussion takes a pivotal turn as they address the possibility of moving from Delaware to Virginia, exploring the ripple effects such a move would have on their co-parenting dynamic.
Kale Lowry [06:11]: "And I'm also thinking, because I think you're so sports-oriented... more so, like, waiting until the school year and when he's transitioning schools."
Javi Marroquin [06:34]: "To anyone publicly? No, this is the first time."
Kale reveals her commitment to preventing unilateral decisions about the move, emphasizing transparent communication to avoid misinformation and public scrutiny.
Emotional and Logistical Challenges
Both parents openly discuss the emotional toll and logistical challenges associated with the potential move, prioritizing Lincoln’s well-being above all.
Javi Marroquin [09:10]: "It's very stressful... I've been in Delaware, so now to..."
Kale Lowry [09:56]: "I made a promise to you in mediation and also to Lincoln... and I stand by that."
They acknowledge the stress of transitioning to a new state, the impact on Lincoln’s routine, and the necessity of maintaining a balanced co-parenting relationship despite physical distance.
Fear of Public Narrative and Media Involvement
Kale and Javi express concerns about how their personal co-parenting decisions might be perceived and potentially distorted by the public and media.
Kale Lowry [21:04]: "I am afraid after this episode airs... people will try to sway us one way or the other."
Javi Marroquin [22:18]: "We're not going to please everybody, and we're not here to."
Their mutual decision to manage the situation privately and collaboratively aims to minimize external pressures and maintain a united front for Lincoln’s sake.
Guest Segment: Elijah Scott Williams
Elijah Scott Williams joins the conversation, offering his insights as an observer of Kale and Javi’s co-parenting journey. His segments are interspersed with promotional content but ultimately serve to highlight the importance of united parental support.
Elijah Scott Williams [25:16]: "I mean it's rough because it's like nobody wants to see a situation like this at all... What's best for Lincoln."
Javi Marroquin [26:03]: "We won't let him decide what we're going to do for Lincoln's sake."
Elijah underscores the significance of prioritizing Lincoln’s needs and the benefits of peaceful co-parenting, reflecting on how Kale and Javi’s approach positively impacts their son.
Building a Collaborative Future
As the conversation progresses, Kale and Javi explore strategies to foster a collaborative and flexible co-parenting arrangement, ensuring Lincoln’s continuous support and stability.
Kale Lowry [27:34]: "Were you guys playing all together on the soccer field and I was watching from the hotel window, I was like, oh, like there really is hope for this entire situation."
Javi Marroquin [29:03]: "We can figure it out for Lincoln. And I think this kind of proved it."
They discuss future plans, such as joint vacations and overlapping trips, to maintain a strong family connection despite geographic separations.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Unity
In the final segments, Kale and Javi reaffirm their commitment to prioritizing Lincoln’s well-being and maintaining open lines of communication. Their united approach serves as a testament to effective co-parenting under challenging circumstances.
Kale Lowry [33:15]: "We'll just make the best of it for the remainder of your time here and... keep doing what's best for Lincoln."
Javi Marroquin [32:30]: "No offense to you. I think it... he'll need that. I think he will."
The episode concludes on a hopeful note, with both parents recognizing the importance of their collaborative efforts in nurturing Lincoln’s growth and happiness.
Key Takeaways
- Transparent Communication: Essential for effective co-parenting, especially across state lines.
- Prioritizing the Child’s Well-Being: Decisions are centered around what is best for Lincoln, minimizing personal conflicts.
- Flexibility and Adaptation: Both parents are committed to adapting their schedules and commitments to support Lincoln’s interests.
- Unified Front: Presenting a united front publicly to mitigate external pressures and maintain a stable environment for Lincoln.
- Future Planning: Proactive strategies to handle potential relocations and their impact on the family dynamic.
Notable Quotes
- Kale Lowry [00:29]: "To co-parent? To communicate, to relay information. Because I do think that when there's an extra layer of being across state lines..."
- Javi Marroquin [03:28]: "Lincoln's in travel soccer, we're committing to him. I mean, Lincoln is at an age. We are behind the curve."
- Kale Lowry [06:11]: "And I'm also thinking, because I think you're so sports-oriented... more so, like, waiting until the school year and when he's transitioning schools."
- Kale Lowry [21:04]: "I am afraid after this episode airs... people will try to sway us one way or the other."
- Javi Marroquin [29:03]: "We can figure it out for Lincoln. And I think this kind of proved it."
- Kale Lowry [33:15]: "We'll just make the best of it for the remainder of your time here and... keep doing what's best for Lincoln."
Closing Remarks
Barely Famous continues to provide a platform for unfiltered and honest conversations, and this episode exemplifies the show's commitment to addressing real-life challenges with authenticity. Kale Lowry and Javi Marroquin’s discussion offers valuable insights into the intricate balance of co-parenting, emphasizing that collaboration and open communication are pivotal in fostering a supportive environment for their child.
Listeners who haven't tuned in yet will find this episode both engaging and enlightening, offering a profound look into the dynamics of modern co-parenting.
Stay tuned for more real and raw conversations every Friday on Barely Famous, brought to you by PodcastOne.