Podcast Summary: CHEERS! with Avery Woods – Episode: fam vacay | Ashley + Jesse Release Date: March 17, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of CHEERS! with Avery Woods, host Avery sits down with her long-time friends and family members, Ashley and Jesse Atkins, to discuss their enduring friendship, marriage, family planning, and parenting journeys. The episode exudes warmth and camaraderie as the trio reminisces about their shared experiences and offers insightful advice for maintaining strong relationships.

Meeting and Friendship

Avery Woods kicks off the conversation by introducing Ashley and Jesse, emphasizing their deep-rooted friendship likened more to family than mere acquaintances. The trio shares anecdotes about their first encounters and the evolution of their bond.

• Ashley Atkins shares, “We've been best friends with you guys for a long time” (01:08), highlighting the longstanding connection between the friends.

• Jesse Adkins humorously recalls his first impression, “I was hungover” (01:37), setting a candid and relatable tone for the episode.

Their initial meetings, fraught with typical first-date jitters and mishaps, laid the foundation for a resilient and supportive friendship.

Marriage and Family Planning

The discussion naturally transitions into Ashley and Jesse's marriage, which spans over eleven years. They delve into their decision-making process around starting a family, showcasing the synchronized nature of their planning.

• Ashley Atkins explains, “We were like, we're gonna start trying” (09:25), reflecting their mutual readiness to embark on parenthood.

• Avery Woods notes the remarkable timing of their pregnancies, “Callie and Ziggy ended up being exactly 20 days apart” (09:46), underscoring the harmonious coordination in their family growth.

The couple’s strategic approach to spacing their children not only emphasizes their organized nature but also their commitment to maintaining a balanced family life.

Birth Stories

Ashley and Avery recount their parallel birth experiences, marked by unexpected complications and emotional challenges. These narratives provide an intimate glimpse into the trials and triumphs of childbirth.

• Ashley Atkins shares a particularly emotional moment: “I just don't know what to do anymore... I was hysterically crying” (17:49), highlighting the raw emotions experienced during labor.

• Jesse Adkins describes the stressful wait during Ashley’s labor progress, “After 43 hours, I was max on pit” (15:55), illustrating the physical and emotional toll of childbirth.

Their stories reveal the strength and resilience required to navigate the unpredictable nature of bringing new life into the world, reinforcing the deep bond they share.

Parenting and Child Dynamics

The conversation shifts to parenting styles and the unique dynamics between their children. Ashley and Jesse discuss the challenges and joys of raising multiple children, each with their distinct personalities.

• Ashley Atkins observes, “They're both so hyperactive and wild” (18:33), describing the energetic nature of their boys.

• David adds, “Callie just doesn't suppress her emotions like Ashley does” (18:57), noting the differences in their daughters’ temperaments.

This segment emphasizes the importance of understanding and adapting to each child’s individual needs, fostering a nurturing and supportive environment.

Friendship Dynamics and Mutual Support

Avery, Ashley, and Jesse delve into the intricacies of their friendship, highlighting the balance between similarities and differences that strengthen their bond.

• Ashley Atkins commends Avery, “You're always so considerate of everybody else around you” (39:44), acknowledging Avery’s selflessness.

• David praises Jesse’s influence, “You make us have a good time. That’s what life's about” (37:37), appreciating Jesse’s role in keeping their friendship vibrant and enjoyable.

Their mutual support and ability to embrace each other’s strengths and weaknesses serve as a testament to the enduring nature of their relationship.

Advice on Long and Happy Marriages

Ashley and Jesse share their insights on maintaining a successful marriage, drawing from their own experiences and challenges.

• Jesse Adkins emphasizes the importance of communication, “I just feel like communication is good” (32:28), underscoring open dialogue as a cornerstone of their relationship.

• Ashley Atkins adds, “You have to learn how to grow together, but you also have to learn how to grow individually” (32:32), highlighting the balance between unity and personal growth.

Their advice encapsulates the essence of a thriving marriage: continuous communication, mutual respect, and personal development.

Nicknames and Endearments

A lighthearted segment unfolds as the friends discuss the origins and meanings behind their affectionate nicknames for each other.

• Ashley Atkins explains the term “Cooties,” a term of endearment adopted from Avery and Jesse, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie (48:12).

• Avery Woods reflects, “You have never been afraid to grow and evolve as a man” (56:43), linking the nicknames to personal growth and mutual support.

This playful exchange reinforces the closeness and familiarity that define their relationships.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt expressions of love and gratitude among friends, encapsulating the essence of CHEERS! with Avery Woods – a space where genuine relationships and shared experiences are celebrated. Ashley and Jesse’s candid storytelling and unwavering support for one another offer listeners a model of enduring friendship and committed marriage.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ashley Atkins: “We've been best friends with you guys for a long time.” (01:08)

• Jesse Adkins: “I was hungover.” (01:37)

• Ashley Atkins: “Callie and Ziggy ended up being exactly 20 days apart.” (09:46)

• Ashley Atkins: “I just don't know what to do anymore... I was hysterically crying.” (17:49)

• Jesse Adkins: “After 43 hours, I was max on pit.” (15:55)

• Ashley Atkins: “They're both so hyperactive and wild.” (18:33)

• David: “Callie just doesn't suppress her emotions like Ashley does.” (18:57)

• Ashley Atkins: “You're always so considerate of everybody else around you.” (39:44)

• Jesse Adkins: “I just feel like communication is good.” (32:28)

• Ashley Atkins: “You have to learn how to grow together, but you also have to learn how to grow individually.” (32:32)

• Ashley Atkins: “You have never been afraid to grow and evolve as a man.” (56:43)

This episode serves as a beautiful tapestry of friendship, love, and family, offering listeners both entertainment and valuable life lessons.