Hard work pays off with guest Cali Prieskorn

Summary

Sunday Sports Club with Allison Kuch Episode: Hard Work Pays Off with Guest Cali Prieskorn Release Date: March 23, 2025

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Introduction

In this compelling episode of the Sunday Sports Club Podcast, host Allison Kuch welcomes a special guest, Cali Prieskorn. Cali brings a wealth of personal experience and insight into the world of sports, particularly focusing on the challenges and triumphs associated with supporting a professional athlete. As the wife of Isaac Kuch, a tight end training for the NFL draft, Cali shares her unique perspective on balancing family life, motherhood, and the demanding nature of collegiate and professional football.

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Early Life and Overcoming Adversity

Cali opens up about her tumultuous upbringing, detailing a childhood marked by instability and emotional challenges. Raised primarily by her mother and stepfather, Cali faced significant hardships, including abuse and bullying, which led to numerous school transfers during her middle and high school years.

[21:00] Cali: "I switched schools in seventh grade because I was bullied so bad. It was absolutely awful."

These experiences fostered a strong sense of independence in Cali from a young age. By the time she reached high school, she was already juggling multiple jobs to support herself, demonstrating resilience and determination.

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Meeting Isaac Kuch: Building a Relationship

Cali recounts the serendipitous way she met her husband, Isaac, highlighting the rapid progression of their relationship. They met six years prior during a football camp in Memphis, Tennessee, where Isaac was a walk-on tight end striving to secure a scholarship.

[05:53] Cali: "He was very football-oriented. Girls, like, whatever. That's not his priority. He was focused on his goal."

Despite the demanding nature of Isaac’s athletic commitments, their bond quickly strengthened, leading to cohabitation shortly after meeting. Cali emphasizes the mutual support and understanding that underpin their relationship, which has been pivotal in navigating the complexities of athletic careers and family life.

[58:22] Cali: "He's the hardest worker. I don't see himself not making a team. If it's meant to be, it will be."

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Balancing Parenthood and Athletic Career

The couple's journey into parenthood adds another layer of complexity to their lives. Cali shares the challenges of raising two children—Mac, a three-year-old son, and Romy, their ten-month-old daughter—while supporting Isaac’s rigorous training schedule.

[19:08] Cali: "During fall camp, Kaden was busy on the bench, training from 5-6 AM till 9-10 PM. I was managing everything else."

Cali discusses the immense responsibility of single-handedly managing household duties and childcare, especially during critical periods like fall camp, where Isaac's presence is minimal. Her ability to adapt and maintain stability for her children is a testament to her strength and dedication.

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Navigating Multiple Moves and Building Stability

The episode delves into Cali's transient lifestyle before meeting Isaac, detailing how she moved frequently, often relying on the kindness of families she babysat for. These experiences, while challenging, contributed to her resourcefulness and ability to adapt to new environments swiftly.

[54:25] Cali: "I've moved in with 11 different homes. It was crazy, but it helped me build resilience."

Meeting Isaac provided the first semblance of stability, allowing them to establish a more permanent home base in Oxford, Mississippi. Cali emphasizes the importance of having a stable environment for their children amidst the unpredictability of Isaac’s football career.

[73:35] Cali: "Having that home to come back to and a stable place is so important to me."

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Isaac’s Transfer to Ole Miss and NFL Aspirations

Isaac's transfer from the University of Memphis to Ole Miss marks a significant milestone in his football career. Cali discusses the strategic decision behind the move, aiming to enhance Isaac's prospects for the NFL draft by exposing him to a more competitive environment.

[61:07] Cali: "We chose Ole Miss because the football community there feels like home. It was the perfect fit for us."

The transfer also coincided with personal milestones, including their engagement and subsequent marriage in July. Cali reflects on the swift progression of their marriage as part of their shared commitment to building a future together.

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Challenges of the NFL Draft and Future Prospects

As Isaac approaches the NFL draft, Cali candidly discusses the uncertainties and emotional toll associated with the process. From preseason injuries to the pressures of securing a spot on a team, she provides an insider’s view of the fears and hopes that come with aspiring to professional sports.

[70:03] Cali: "When the roster comes out, wherever he is, I'm confident he'll make a team. If it's meant to be, it will be."

Cali balances optimism with realism, acknowledging the fierce competition and the possibility of being cut, while unwaveringly supporting Isaac’s relentless work ethic and dedication.

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Lessons and Insights

Throughout the episode, Cali shares invaluable lessons on resilience, support, and the importance of a strong support system. Her journey underscores the significance of adaptability and unwavering support in the face of life's unpredictabilities, especially within the high-stakes world of professional sports.

[75:48] Cali: "If you're in the NFL, you're in the top 1% of football players. You have to celebrate every opportunity."

Cali’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength required to navigate personal and professional challenges, highlighting the profound impact of partnership and family in achieving one's goals.

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Closing Thoughts

Allison Kuch and Cali Prieskorn wrap up the episode with reflections on the ongoing journey towards stability and success. They discuss the excitement and anxiety surrounding the NFL draft, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a stable home environment for their children regardless of the outcome.

[77:46] B (Allison): "Your entire story made you so strong. It also shows you've worked your ass off and know what it's like to not see a dime."

The episode concludes on an inspirational note, celebrating Cali’s unwavering support for Isaac and her dedication to her family, while looking forward to the next chapters in their intertwined lives.

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Notable Quotes

• Cali Prieskorn at [21:00]: "I switched schools in seventh grade because I was bullied so bad. It was absolutely awful."

• Cali Prieskorn at [05:53]: "He was very football-oriented. Girls, like, whatever. That's not his priority. He was focused on his goal."

• Cali Prieskorn at [58:22]: "He's the hardest worker. I don't see himself not making a team. If it's meant to be, it will be."

• Cali Prieskorn at [54:25]: "I've moved in with 11 different homes. It was crazy, but it helped me build resilience."

• Cali Prieskorn at [75:48]: "If you're in the NFL, you're in the top 1% of football players. You have to celebrate every opportunity."

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Conclusion

This episode of Sunday Sports Club offers a profound look into the life of Cali Prieskorn, illustrating the interplay between personal resilience, family support, and the pursuit of athletic excellence. Cali’s honest and heartfelt narrative provides listeners with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and unwavering dedication required to support a loved one in the competitive world of professional sports.

For more insights and inspiring stories, follow the Sunday Sports Club Podcast on Instagram @SundaySportsClubPodcast, TikTok @SundaySportsClubPod, and subscribe on YouTube.

Transcript

[A]

The following podcast is a Dear Media production.

[B]

What's up, guys? Welcome back to Sunday Sports Club Podcast, a podcast all about sports where I bring you guys the stories you actually want to hear about. Nobody gives a about stats, right? So today we have on a special guest, Callie Priest Corn. And she is married to a college football player who is going into the NFL draft this year and also has two kids. So everybody, welcome Cali. Hi, welcome to Cali.

[A]

I know that's crazy. Cali and Cali.

[B]

I was like yesterday when I texted you, I was like, oh, wait, Cali in Cali. Although I think people in California don't like calling it Cali.

[A]

Really?

[B]

Yeah, I guess it's like a soft subject.

[A]

Or I call it Cali.

[B]

Like it doesn't. That doesn't bother me. Is this your first time in California?

[A]

No, we came out for like a football camp a few months ago. So our daughter Romy was like three weeks old and I was like, we're going to la. Sorry.

[B]

I feel like football will do that where you just are like forced to like get out of like the newborn bubble really quick or like you're forced to like make a move way quicker than expected. Like, I have friends who have brought like three week old babies to football games.

[A]

Yeah. Oh, yes.

[B]

Like, are you in a diaper? You in a diaper in the stadium?

[A]

Like my son, when he was first born, he was six weeks old. He was born during fall camp. Six weeks old. We're in football games. That's.

[B]

And like I was in bed probably crying, asking Isaac to fill up my water bottle. So that's crazy. So, yeah, you mentioned. So you have two kids? Yes. What are their names?

[A]

I have a son, he's three. His name is Mac. And then I have a daughter, her name's Romy. She's 10 months old. So.

[B]

So you are married in college with two kids and your husband is training for the NFL. How are you doing?

[A]

I'm fine. Everything's fine. Every. We're fine.

[B]

Yeah, I'm like, that seems because I remember Isaac training and there are long days working out, like really paying attention to like your nutrition. What position does your husband play?

[A]

He's a tight end.

[B]

Okay. So I feel like it like o line. Oh my God. O lineman. Wives are going to come after me, but I feel like when it comes to alignment, it's like, okay, bulking, like, can you lift? Heavy. Can you do this? Can you do that? But I feel like for more specialized positions, skilled positions, like a tight end is a little bit More intricate training for the NFL.

[A]

And it's. It's different because, you know, it's not like, with a tight end, it's not one specific job. It's like, you're blocking and you're receiving, so you got to be big and bulky to block these big ass dudes. And then you got to be nimble and quick to run your 40.

[B]

Exactly.

[A]

I feel like right now he's, like, really focusing on, like, his 40 and, like, trying to, you know, get that speed down. Because that's such a big factor.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But also staying big enough to hold back the guys.

[B]

So, no, honestly, when I think of a hard position, I would think of tight end because you do multiple things and, like, I'm sorry, I have adhd. I don't know if I could play that position. I'm like, I need one position. Like kickers. Like, please don't throw me in there. But aside from your husband, I want to talk about you and, like, how you guys met and especially being the not. I hate saying, like, the wife of. Because you're your own. Like, I hated when people would be like, oh, that's Isaac, Rochelle's wife. I'm like, you can just say Allison. Yeah, you say Allison. Rochelle. That won't bother me if you say my name.

[A]

Important.

[B]

Yeah, exactly. Okay. So how did you and your husband meet?

[A]

So it's crazy. Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. I mean, yes.

[A]

We. I in college, I'm like, the one on the tables, like, dancing. Like, I'm taking the shots.

[B]

Like, it would be. I'm like, we're friends.

[A]

We are. But this one night, my friend, I don't remember if it was her birthday or what, but I was designated driver, so I wasn't drinking at all. Like, the one night of my entire college life. And we go to this. Like, we're like, it's Memphis. So there's not, like, big frat part. There's just.

[B]

I've never been to Memphis. I don't even know what state that is.

[A]

Don't go.

[B]

Is that Tennessee?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Oh, my God, it's scary. I don't know geography. Okay, so Memphis, Tennessee.

[A]

Love Memphis. It's deep place in my heart. But the crime is just plummeting. So we're, like, bouncing around from house parties. We go to this one house and we're there. Everyone's like, dancing, vibing, typical Memphis and typical college. I see this guy and I'm like, oh, my gosh. I followed him on Instagram last week.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

I. I saw him. He was like, I don't know, he looked cute. So I followed him. And so I was like. I go up to him and I'm like, didn't I follow you on Instagram?

[B]

Wait, shut up.

[A]

And he goes, yeah. And I was literally like, okay, thanks. Bye. So I was like, okay. I've just. I've never been, like, walled like that before. So, like, I didn't know how to, like, accept.

[B]

He's not trying to talk to anybody.

[A]

It was. I was like, girlfriend, wife, he's done for. Right? So then that night, I was like, okay, but he was so cute. I unfollowed him, and I followed him again, and he followed me back. So it worked like, okay, shooters are gonna shoot.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And it's gonna airball. Or it's every once in a while, you know, you'll get some rim.

[B]

How many years ago was this?

[A]

This was six years ago. Okay, so five and a half, Six. Somewhere there. So he. That night, he follows me back and he posts on his Instagram story, his Snapchat code thing. You know, like the bark.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

And it was. He was like, add me on Snapchat. And I was like, for your 3,000 followers? Okay, fine, I'll do it. So I added him, and he added me back, but he never, like, Snapchatted me. So I was like, okay, fine. Make me do all the work.

[B]

Like, are you kidding me?

[A]

Hey. So I Snapchat him, and you were.

[B]

I feel like you were fully like, okay, I need to, like, look good. I need to do full. Like, full beat, full glam. Like, what? Okay, now where's the angle? Like, were you doing that or were you just like, oh, no, fudge this.

[A]

I think it was, like, that era where it's, like, pictures of, like, half your face.

[B]

Oh, my God.

[A]

So I was like, yeah, like, my one eye.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And I was like, hey, what's up? And we, like, Snapchatted for a couple days, and he never asked me to hang out. And I was literally like, what does a girl have to do? So a girl had to be like, you want to come over? And he came over and, like, literally from that day forward, we. That every single day we spent together.

[B]

That's insane. Did he ever have an excuse as to why he wasn't making the moves?

[A]

No, he's just, like, very football oriented. So he was always. Just like, I was always focused on football. Like, girls, like, whatever. Like, it's just not his priority. He's like, I have a goal. I've loved football my whole life. I work. He's like, the hardest Worker, like he's the first one there, last one to leave. So that was, you know, that was just like kind of his thing. So.

[B]

Wow. Okay. So then that was back in what year?

[A]

2019.

[B]

Okay, 2019. So that was before he went to college.

[A]

So he. That was his freshman year. He was a quarterback in high school. Came, didn't really have any offers. He went to Fork Union Military Academy.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Before going to college, he. To try to up his offers, broke his foot there.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

So like he was. That was the end of that season done. And then he had a friend who was like, you need to go to Memphis. Like you can walk on there. Whenever he goes to Memphis, they can't take him as a quarterback. They take him as a tight end.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

In the middle of the season. Not like in July. He went on in like September.

[B]

Okay. That's rare.

[A]

It was crazy. So he's a walk on middle of the season, like as a tight end. He's 100. He's 216 pounds.

[B]

Like, like big boy. Hello.

[A]

And like it was crazy. And so he. Gosh. I mean, so you get.

[B]

So you start dating and.

[A]

Yeah. So this was like October, September, October. So this was like right after he got to Memphis.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

So he gets there and he's like, gosh, my best friend is going to be this girl.

[B]

Great. Like, okay. And then when did he transfer to?

[A]

So he spent four years at Memphis. So this is.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

He had a Covid year and he also red shirted, so that made him eligible for six years.

[B]

Holy. We had one of those at Notre Dame and I was like, how old? So how old is your husband?

[A]

He's 25.

[B]

Oh my God. Wow. No, sorry, that was.

[A]

And he was also. No, but he was also held back as a kid and then he also went. Spent the year at like Fork Union Military Academy. So this man was like 20 as a.

[B]

His. His parents knew what they were doing. They're like, we're going to give you your best opportunity to go and play football. That's. I've actually heard of parents like holding back their kids in four sports. So that's insane. You guys got married in college?

[A]

Yes. So we. He transferred to ole miss in 23. He kind of had a big breakout year at Memphis and it wasn't necessary. You know, nil has become like this huge thing and for him it wasn't like an nil thing. I mean, sure, that's a perk, right? He has a family to like, we were providing but like for him it was like I want to play with the guys who are going to the NFL. I want to go play on Alabama's football field, which, like, I mean, it's just like the bigger levels, the bigger fields, the bigger guys, like, go, yeah, play against who you want to play with.

[B]

And the culture at those schools, like, being able to play football at those schools is I. I say this all the time. I think I love college football, and I think I like college football more than the NFL because it's, well, now nil. And the transfer portal has kind of changed it, and I feel like it's taken away. It has, like, good parts of college football. So, like, that kind of sucks. But I feel like in terms of, like, the fan bases, it's way more bought in than I feel like with an NFL team. I mean, don't get me wrong, like, the Browns, like the Cleveland Browns, like, that's a bought in fan base and so are like, the Bills. But when it comes to college, I feel like there's, like, more heart in it.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And so I can totally see why he would be like, okay, I want to go and play.

[A]

There was like, why, you know, if I stay here, I'm going to have the same great year. I want to go. Go play against what I want to play with. That was like his mindset. So he transfers Ole Miss. And that was 23. We move in February. His dad, the previous year had been diagnosed with stage four colon cancer.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

And it was. That was really hard. But we kind of like, had like. Okay. Like, as sad as it is, like, you. He has a few years. Yeah. So, you know, and around the time that he transferred was like, okay, we're getting down to like, maybe six months. And I just remember looking at Kaden and I was like, we have to get married. Like, and usually that's not something for, like, the woman to bring up.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But, like, we'd been dating four years, and I was like, babe, like this. Every parent deserves to see their child get married.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And we're in a place like, we want to get married. We're not even, like, we're just. We're so comfortable in our life. We live together, we have a kid. Like, that's the next step. But, like, it's also what we wanted, but we just hadn't, like, pulled the trigger.

[B]

So at this point, you had your son.

[A]

Sorry, I want to skip a few.

[B]

I'm like, wait, yeah, back that up.

[A]

Had my son in 2021.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

So very, very early on and everything. But fast forward back to 2023 in July or April. In April he proposes.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

And because he agreed, he was like, absolutely. Like, we've wanted this. Like, so he goes about it, he does this big, like, cute surprise, like, proposal. And like, I knew it was coming in the few months because you, I.

[B]

Mean, before you mentioned, like, with everything his, like, family was going through, had you guys Talked about marriage?

[A]

100.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

It was definitely like in the books. We just like. And we decided since we were moving to Oxford, like, yeah, definitely soon. And what? There was really nothing holding either of us back. It was just like we were so comfortable in our life.

[B]

And I mean, you're young, so you're like, well, what's the rush? Like, it'll eventually happen. Yeah.

[A]

But it was like so important to him and me that his dad be able to like, see us get married. And so we got engaged April 15th. We got a wedding venue booked for July 15th. So it was like a 12 week turnaround. It was crazy.

[B]

Like, okay, hold on, I need to find my dress.

[A]

Yeah. Guys, wait a second. And we got married July 15th. His dad came. I think his dad was like, I mean, truly, like, it just seemed like he lost 200 pounds. Like he's, I mean, this is a 6, 8, 300, 400 pound guy. And now he's. Maybe he's the size. He's smaller than Kaden.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So that was really hard for us to see, but we were so happy that he got to be there and like, obviously sitting on the front row, like the parents and stuff, it was so special and I'm so glad that he got to be there and see that. And it was, it was just so special. And he did. And that was July 15th and he ended up passing in October.

[B]

Oh my God.

[A]

So it, I'm so thankful that he got to like be a part of that and like make those memories before. And I think that's like something Kaden will always like hold dear to his heart is like just our wedding and.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know.

[B]

Are you close, Are you close with his mom?

[A]

Yeah, I'm pretty close with her. And that's, you know, that's just hard. That's. That was her person for so long. Like. Yeah, I just can't even imagine, like.

[B]

Well, it's incredible that he was able to see that and also to be able to like, meet a grandson. Like, was that his first grandchild?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

That was his first grandchild. And we actually found out we were co equipped. We got married in July and I was pregnant in August. So you know, I feel like once.

[B]

You have one, then it's like, whatever, whatever.

[A]

What's one more? So he like found out that we were gonna have a little girl and like, that was just really special.

[B]

So you guys, seasonal depression, no more. Because spring is right around the corner. And spring is one of my favorite seasons because summer is next, obviously, but I feel like the flowers are blooming, the colors are here, and we're all finally getting out of our house because the weather's changing. And you know what else comes into play when spring is right around the corner? Spring fashion. Especially spring fashion at Macy's. There are so many trends that I can't wait to try, you guys. I actually want to wear a skirt this spring. Call me crazy. So I'm definitely going to be taking advantage of Macy's spring VIP sale with 30% off top brands and an extra 15% off beauty. Yeah. Hello. I'm loving all denim I've been seeing. I'm going to be buying some jeans from Levi's along with a little denim jacket. You guys, I feel like a Canadian suit is a year round kind of outfit. Okay. It's really perfect for spring. Another thing that goes hand in hand with spring fashion is spring home decor. You guys know I just recently moved into my brand new home and I'm so excited to like actually throw some of my style into here and decorate for all the new seasons. And for spring, I'm thinking some bright colored pastel pillows, which social media is going to love because I feel like I have a very beige house to begin with. But I'm going to be doing all of it at Macy's. Whether it's fashion for me, outfits for Isaac, something for the whole family, but also. So I'm thinking home decor. The event dates @ Macy's are March 28 through April 6. And you can shop@macy's.com or in store. If you're anything like me, you've been planning your special day, AKA your wedding for as long as you can remember. I swear I was like 10 years old cutting out pictures from magazines and just dreaming of what my wedding would look like. And then fast forward a few years and it didn't look anything like that. But if you're looking for a partner to help you out with wedding planning, look no further because the knot is is here to plan with you. From gathering inspo and scoring expert advice, defining your venue, figuring out your budget, they'll connect you to all the people, places and tools you need. Because at the end of the day. We're all planning such different weddings with different vibes, different people. So it's great that the Knot is there to help you out. They have actional inspiration and expert advice based on helping couples plan over 25 million real weddings with photos, articles and so much more to bring your vision to life. And you can plan anywhere anytime with the wedding planning app with the most five star reviews. And the Knot is also going to help provide the best guest experience for your friends and family. From like collecting their addresses and easy RSVPing to providing seamless registry shopping all in one place. And also the Knot has the most venues and vendors across any wedding site in any location. So like they truly know what they're doing. Let the Knot be your partner in all things wedding planning. Get started at the Knot.com audio T-H-E-K-N-O-T.com a u d I O All right you guys, we are three months into the New year. How are we doing with our New Year's resolutions? Because I need to do some improving. But one thing I have been keeping up with is Momentous. Winners don't make resolutions. Resolutions break. Instead they just start and then maximize that momentum. And that's why I love Momentous. They invest in NSF certification, meaning every batch is tested for heavy metals, harmful additives and label claim accuracy. It is the reason that they are trusted by all 32 NFL teams and collegiate sports teams, dietitians all across the country. I've been loving their protein powder so much. I have been in a little workout grind. I mean I haven't kept that same goal throughout January and February, but March I have been doing a great job and I always look forward to drinking my Momentous protein right after my workout. And quality is one of my top priorities. And when it comes to supplements geared towards high performers, nobody does it like Momentous. Trusting research and their ecosystem of experts over fads means not offering every supplement on the market. Other brands can do that. Momentous believes in nailing the basics with bone crushing consistency and then curating an intentional routine based on your individual goals. And you know who else loves Momentous in this family? Isaac, because he's been stealing my protein. But he also loves their creatine. So Momentous sources creapure, which is the purest form of creatine monohydrate available and it's an absolute must. Okay? And Isaac loves it again. So if you guys are interested, go to livemomentous.com and try it out today at 20% off with code Sunday and start living on purpose. So you got pregnant when Kaden was playing college football?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

How did that affect fatherhood? Motherhood? Like, you had to do everything alone.

[A]

Yeah. So for Kaden, I mean, good Lord, we threw him to the wolves. Like, poor thing, he was like, what's a diaper? You know, like. But he honestly, like, he was so quick with, like, learning everything. But we did have Mac Aug. 4, which was fall camp.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

And this was a time when Kaden was very much so on the bench, very much so new with his position, working really hard. So it was so important for him, which made it important for me that he was like, first one there, last one to leave. So. And during fall camp, that's 5, 6am till 9, 10pm and then when you get home, I'm not going to be like, hey, go get up with him. Yeah, you've been working your ass off all day. So I was like, okay, I'm doing nights, I'm doing days. I'm losing my mind. I had to go have emergency surgery when he was five weeks old. So in the hospital for a week. I got sepsis. Like, it was so bad.

[B]

Oh, my God. I got sepsis after. So scary.

[A]

Like, are we gonna die?

[B]

No. That's what the woman told me. And I was like, you need better tableside manner or whatever. Bedside manner. Same thing. Okay. So terrifying. So did you have a support system?

[A]

I did, but I think I. So I grew up very, very weird.

[B]

I feel like I've seen some of your, like, social media posts about growing.

[A]

Up, and I'm like an open book.

[B]

So, like, I'm so kind of give a gist of that.

[A]

So I grew up with my mom and my stepdad. I lived with him until seventh grade. So in around that time, I came out with, like, a lot of information that I was, like, being abused, not by my mom, and I was taken away from them, so. Because of the whole situation. And so when I left that I remember, like, I was in seventh grade. This is like the hardest years of your life. Middle school, like, absolutely.

[B]

Girls in seventh grader. Terrifying. No, I literally switched schools in seventh grade because I was bullied so bad.

[A]

Yeah, Mean, like, absolutely awful. And I had my friends, though. And I just remember, like, the police, like, came to my school and, like, I never knew that was my last day of school. And I did not see those people from seventh grade again until I was like, 16. Like, that was. It was crazy.

[B]

And I did. It was just so then, like, so.

[A]

I got taken away from that situation. And I was put into my dad's house, which my dad and I like, we just. He was like the fun parent because I saw him several times a year, but it was like, you go for Christmas and like, you fill up the whole couch because like, that's all you can do. Yeah, like what, what else are you doing? Yeah, I don't. And so it was so fun, that house. And I thought it was going to be like, great. And I'm like, okay, like, this is a better situation. And like I'm at middle school though, so I moved to my dad's. And it's like great off the bat, you know, it's fun. But then it's like it was a steady decline.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And he truly like, I, I think he tried his best. I can't imagine what it's like having like a 12 year old dumped on you.

[B]

And I feel like raising a 12 year old daughter like overnight just being like, oh, I'm the sole parent.

[A]

I am coming from trauma.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Like, and trauma that like he obviously felt guilty about. He was like, gosh, where was I? He's like, I don't know what to do with this girl. Like, she's crazy. I'm like into boys. Like, like, you know, it's all the things, like you're trying to find your friends. You're like got little crushes and like. Right, all the things. And so that relationship just didn't work out. There were lots of like other issues in the house. And it was kind of essentially like my, my mom never hated my dad. My mom would never talk bad about my dad, but my dad was like opposite. It'd be like encouraging me to call her a. Like, yeah, it just like he just didn't love her. I mean, like, obviously he didn't love her, but like he did not. You know what I'm saying?

[B]

I feel like there's, there's like a respect that has to be there. Where some of my friends that have gone through divorces are like, oh, how do I pre. Like this affecting my child to like a trauma point. And everyone, their number one recommendation is like, don't talk about the other parent to your child or like involve them in your conflict or like the mess. So I can only imagine how hard that was. And you're young and you're like going through all these changes. You're like, like, my life looks completely different.

[A]

Yes. Yes. So it was just. And I, I went from a very public. I mean I was like a town of 6,000 people. It was a very, like low income town. And now I. When I moved to Memphis, I was put in like a very, very expensive private school with these kids who, quite literally, I mean, I remember senior year, this kid got like a Maserati for his, for his graduation.

[B]

It's gonna be Scotty. I'm kidding.

[A]

I was like, okay, so you know, coming from that and like trying to fit in with these people, these like 12 year olds have like, Louis. And I'm like, what's a Louie?

[B]

You know, I don't.

[A]

It was just like, it was hard to fit in. So that went from like losing all my friends to trying to make new friends, but not being.

[B]

And like fitting in.

[A]

I'm like this little country girl from, you know, from the small town, and I'm like, hey, like, I don't know what I'm doing, you know? So that was, that was just hard. A hard age to transfer schools. So I was in 8th grade at my other school. And when I came to the new private school, I was put back into seventh grade.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

So when I left my small public school, I was in eighth grade. And when I transferred, it was the middle of the year. They were like, sorry, you're not smart enough to be an 8th grader.

[B]

Like, see ya.

[A]

7Th grade. And so that was hard too, because I was like, wait, seventh grade? I'm about to go to high school.

[B]

You're like, I'm gonna be the smartest person in here. I think.

[A]

Yeah, right.

[B]

You're like, that was great instead, otherwise. Right.

[A]

But like, that was just a hard transition with like trying to find friends.

[B]

Totally.

[A]

All the things. And so one, two, skip a few. That school just didn't work out for me. I ended up going back to a public school, which is what I wanted. I wanted to go to a public school because that's where I felt like I fit in. Because that's what I grew up with. That school also didn't work out. It was a little scary. It's in Memphis. But I loved it and I made so many good friends there. But it just like ultimately like didn't work out.

[B]

So then. And you can. We don't have to talk about this if you don't want to. So. Yeah, one point. Did you live in your car?

[A]

We're getting.

[B]

Okay, I'm jumping ahead.

[A]

So I'm in high school at this public school. I am working while I'm there. So like, my dad was like, I'm teaching you financial independence. I was like, maybe 15, 16, 16. I was driving so I was 16.

[B]

Holy.

[A]

But I was buying my own shampoo. Buying my. It was. And it was in my. In his eyes. It was like, we're showing you financial, independent independence, you know? But he was take. I mean, he.

[B]

I'm like. But for basic human needs, like, and now. Especially now that you're a parent.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Oh, I think for basic human needs, like, I understand, like, what he was trying to do.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

But there's also a point where it's like, well, you had a child.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And I feel like you should also financial, Like, Yeah. You made a decision.

[A]

Right. And I think that was an accident.

[B]

Like, I don't think it was on purpose.

[A]

On purpose. But, like, I was here, you know, you did the deed. I got here. So same thing. But I. But, like, also, he was paying my. Obviously, he paid for, like, my, like, medical bills.

[B]

Car.

[A]

He paid for my car. He paid.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Insurance.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

You know, so I guess it was just like everything else. It was like, that's on you, and that's okay.

[B]

He didn't, like, make you pay rent to live at your house. Oh, don't. I heard horror stories.

[A]

I've heard people.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

But that leads me to that public school wasn't working out. I think I was kind of, like, scared a little bit. Just.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

The environment got a little scary.

[B]

Yep. That can.

[A]

And so I. Middle of the year, somebody got shoved out of, like, a third story window. And I was like. And then someone else, like, brought up.

[B]

You. Oh, my.

[A]

And I think when I saw that in a classroom, I was scared to go back. I was just like, I. I'm scared. Scared. I love my friends, but I'm scared. And he was just like, ride it out. Ride it out. And I was like, no, I can't, like. And so I talked.

[B]

Ride it out straight. The third story window. Crazy. Like, who do you mean, crazy?

[A]

And I remember, like, I talked to my grandmother, which is like, my mom's mom. She's like my rock. Like, she can never leave. She must live eternally because we will not be okay. But I talked to her, and I talked to my mom and I. Because I still, like, talk to my mom.

[B]

You had a relationship with your mom?

[A]

It's like, yes. I love my mom so much. We just, like, have to have boundaries.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

Because of everything. And. But I talked to her, and, you know, I talked to my grandmother, and I was like, I. I can't do this. Like, this is scary. Like, I. But we found this, like, homeschooling program where I could do school online. From home.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Which for me is, like, what I wanted. I was like, okay. Like, that's a little independence. You can. I can work. I can. I loved working. And so I. And pulling a blank, the living in.

[B]

Your car, that's what we're getting.

[A]

We're getting there.

[B]

We're getting there.

[A]

I promise. So I started online working or online school.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

My dad was like, you can't live here if you're gonna do that. Like we said. He was trying to get me into a different public school, but it was like I had to wait until the next semester. And I was like, I literally. I'm just. I can't go back to that school. Like, I'm scared. And so I just pulled the fast one. And I was like, I'm gonna do this online school. And he was like, then you're gonna go live with your grandmother. So I did.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

And that's kind of like where the beginning came of, like, how I lived with my grandmother. But I was with my dads on the week, you know, weekends. And like, it was kind of. That started the back and forth. They live an hour away.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

So that's where the back and forth started. That was a big line for my dad and I's relationship. That was really, like, where it was like, we had all these problems, but, like, that was like, she's not my full responsibility anymore.

[B]

Like.

[A]

But I'm 16, so you're still a kid. Yeah. And so I'm. So then I'm living with my grandmother. I'm doing this online school. I'm going back and forth, you know, trying to, like, keep. I'm working in Memphis. I'm also working in Brownsville. I'm working in another town called Jackson. Like, I've got all these jobs. Any fast food place you can think of. That was me. That was me. I. And if somebody was like, we're gonna pay you 25 cents more, I was like, oh, two weeks notice. Except I'm leaving tomorrow. Yeah, I gotta go make my money. And so. So was living with my grandmother. But the back and forth got too hard.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So I'm like, dad, I need to come back. And he's like, not really an option.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

But he's like, my door's always open, but that's not an option.

[B]

My door's open. Except. Except for you to, like, move back in.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Except there has to be you going out the door, like, okay.

[A]

And so I. I hope nobody listening.

[B]

To this is like, Ally's heartless. I just laugh at trauma No, I do, too.

[A]

Okay. Dark humor. Like, that's how you gotta get through it.

[B]

You're laughing. I love to laugh.

[A]

I love it. And so I'm like, okay. And so this is kind of like where I had to live somewhere. So my dad. I lived in an apartment. This was my senior year. I lived in an apartment by myself my senior year of high school.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

And what. What got us to that is my dad was the one who introduced the idea. It was him saying, like, this is a great way for you to be independent, you and I. But I wanted.

[B]

You're like, I'm gonna be independent for, I thought the remaining. Forever, the rest of my life. So, like, can I just have, like, two more years of being dependent?

[A]

I thought it was the most, like, awesome thing, though. I was like, I get to live alone. Like, I thought it was at that age.

[B]

You're like, oh, this is. This is fun.

[A]

Looking back, I'm like, what just happened? But, like, for me, in that moment, I'm like, this is so cool. Like, being able to tell my friends I have my own place. Like, that's.

[B]

That was throwing high school parties at your own place.

[A]

Whose house is mine? Yeah. I don't know.

[B]

So, Mikasa.

[A]

Correct. So, like, I. So, like, this is like, you know, I did the schooling with my grandmother back and forth through 17. Move. So when I turned 18, June. School starts in August. So my dad was like, this is a great way for you to be independent. And I'm like, I love that. Like, absolutely. Sign me up.

[B]

You're like, finally something I can get behind. Jesus paying for this Friday, McDonald's. No. Apartment.

[A]

Absolutely.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

So what the. Our kind of deal was was that I would find somewhere to live based on, like, a budget that I thought was reasonable with what I was making. And my dad was going to give me $500 a month. Okay. I'm like, my car is $500 now. Not even. It's more than.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I don't know. Like, I'm like, $500 is two pairs of mother jeans.

[B]

Right.

[A]

You can't.

[B]

There's nothing.

[A]

I. Looking back now, but in that moment, I'm getting paid. 758, 25.

[B]

Right.

[A]

An hour. So, like, back then, like, that's. Even now, like, that is so much money for so many people. You know what I mean? But it kind of just depends on where you are in life. So for me, I was like, $500. Like, I can do a lot with that.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So I kind of decided, I think the, like, price Range for the apartment was like 750. I think 900 was too much. 750 was what we were looking for.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

This is also like, you know, like several, several years ago. This wasn't right when like houses were like.

[B]

And I feel like, I know Memphis, Tennessee is a big city.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

But I feel like it compared to like Orange County, California, rent prices are drastically different.

[A]

I mean, renting a house in Memphis, like a nice house, you're looking at like $2,000. Like so I'm looking at apartments and I'm like, this one's beautiful. It's in the ghetto, okay. Like it's in a bad neighborhood and it's. Memphis is weird because it's like you have a really nice neighborhood and a really bad neighborhood and like, it's like you kind of mix between the two. But I picked this apartment. I remember one of my best friends came and looked at it and we were sold because there was like a 1913 chandelier hanging up in the living room. I was like, beautiful. That's the one. A sh. My own chandelier with four light bulbs.

[B]

Oh my God.

[A]

Sold. So I'm like, okay. I think it was like seven. I don't remember, but I think it's like 750amonth. I was like, okay, 500 for my dad. I can do the 250, you know, like my mom was like helping me get like a new car, so I was, I was going to pay for it. My mom was helping like co sign and stuff. Cuz my credit. Credit. When you're 18, I don't know nobody.

[B]

So I mean, I'm sure a lot of people do actually. I'm sure I didn't.

[A]

No, I didn't. And I think I, I think I had experimented a little with what I could do with a cred card. So I, you know, we had to do some growing. But she helped me get the car and I went and leased or not least I opened payment plans on like a couch, some tables, a rug.

[B]

Oh my gosh.

[A]

My mom, I had a bed from my mom's house. My mom gave me my bed from like my childhood. So I had that. And then my grandmother bought me like a TV stand and a TV and like.

[B]

So you're, you're set. Like it's.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

So how was living there? Like it had.

[A]

I'm gonna, I remember like my pantry was just like three shelves on the wall and I went to Costco and I bought like a box of chips. Like and that was like.

[B]

And that was Your, like, chips and cliff bars.

[A]

Like, that was my. And like, Ramen Noodles. But, like, I was so busy working, I wasn't really thinking about things like that. I was working at, like, Logan's Sonic Pyro's Pizza, like, all these places. And I was also. This is when I really started nannying and, like, babysitting. I've always kind of babysat, but I really dove into it because you're getting paid, like, I mean, some people are paying you $20 an hour, and this.

[B]

Is like, oh, my God. I don't even want to talk about what. What a nanny asked me in terms of payment for one child out here.

[A]

I can't imagine.

[B]

Yeah, well, I'm like, if you're a full. Like, if you're a nanny, for sure.

[A]

But that was like, back then, 15, 20 was good. I mean, like, we pay like 40 an hour on game days. Because I'm like, if you're gonna skip that game, I'm gonna pay you. Yeah, but like, back then it was like, 15, 20. I would take jobs for 10, you know, just because, like, that's still, like.

[B]

In building a relationship and always being busy. Like, yes, okay.

[A]

And $10 an hour for me was like, 20 was like the jackpot. But, like, 10 was like, okay. At my typical job, I'm making eight, right. So, like, that's $2 more like that.

[B]

And, like, running around doing X, Y and Z. Whereas in nannying, babysitting is more like hanging out with kids, like, doing sometimes fun stuff.

[A]

Like. And so. And I loved nannying. Like, it was just more flexible. I didn't have to go put on an apron. Like, no, no shame to the apron. That's a.

[B]

You wore the aprons?

[A]

I wore it. I would wear it again.

[B]

Yeah, I had to.

[A]

But. But this is when the nannying started in. So when I started realizing that I could do full time babysitting, I cut back on, like, the other jobs.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I was like, why do I need these? I'm writing 20 an hour watching these people's kids.

[B]

You're like, this is great.

[A]

This is great. And so started babysitting. I mean, I filled my schedule. Like, I don't even know when I did school. I don't think I did school. I mean, I did, but, like.

[B]

And did you graduate high school?

[A]

Yeah. A salutatorian. I was the second smartest. Wow.

[B]

I'm like, you were in online school.

[A]

On an online school.

[B]

Okay. So, like, noted.

[A]

I feel like game was fair.

[B]

Yeah, right.

[A]

Anyone could have had.

[B]

That's a Fighting chance.

[A]

But so I filled my schedule. I'm like, nannying for these families. I love these families. I love these kids. Like, they're like my people. And. But I mean, I probably babysat for 20 families at that time. Like, just like, constant rotation. I had, like, my solid people who was like, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and then maybe a somebody on Tuesday, Thursday. Right. Saturday, pick me ups, like, all the things.

[B]

And my babysitter will be like, I feel like you guys need a date night.

[A]

I'm like, okay, does that mean you need money?

[B]

I'm like, send us away.

[A]

Fine. Something you want to buy, right? So I remember coming home one night to my apartment and my entire kitchen and like. Like, part of the living room ceiling had, like, collapsed. So I walk in, my ceiling's on my floor, and I'm like, they're out of here. There are roaches crawling around. There's black mold everywhere. Okay. So if that gives you an idea where I was. Yep. What turned out was that they said that there was a leak on the top floor that had just, like, puddled on my ceiling and it caved in. And I remember that night I had to, like, beg my dad, like, I have to come home. And he was like, wow, I had to beg. And I was like, it's for one night, and then I'll leave. And he was like, okay, be gone at 9am in the morning.

[B]

Holy.

[A]

And so I did. I went home and I was gone the next morning. But I. It was then that I was like, okay, what am I gonna do? I'm not living in here with mold. He was saying, like, ride it out. Like, they're gonna fix it. And I'm like, I. It's black.

[B]

I'm sorry, but these are ride it out things. Like you staying in a public school with, like, tons of violence, and also you staying in a apartment with black mold.

[A]

And I think, like, the common. And this, like, will obviously come up again. But a very common thing was, like, I wanted to, but because I wasn't. I was too young to, like, make those decisions.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Like, I should have had someone who was like, this isn't going to be good for you. This isn't what you need. Instead of someone who's like, yeah. I mean, I remember, like, my dad, like, you can go on American Idol. I will correct a glass if I try to. What? Okay. I feel like he was. But he was so encouraging, and that was, like, his way of love. But I'm like. I feel like he was just trying to push me to be My best in his own way. Do you know? I know I'm. I'm. I'm giving a little bit of question.

[B]

And, like, I think you're giving a lot of grace because. Because just. I don't know. I just feel like there's. There's a standard when it comes to, like, those things that, like, parents you make. You made the decision whether that been a mistake or not. Like, you did what you did, and it's crazy that you were, like, forced into these really not great situations.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And then had to, like, make your own decisions on how. And, like, you're still a kid.

[A]

Yes. Yes.

[B]

I think anything under 22 is, like, you're a kid.

[A]

Yeah. You need that guidance.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

And so I realized, like, it was going to be a month before they can fix this, and I'm like, I've got to get out of here. So I break the lease. I moved. My mom helped me move out at this point. My mom. I love my mom, so I don't really like to, like, talk much on her situation, but all she's still with. With the guy.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

And that's her decision. And like, for me, I love my mom so much, and it was important for me to find ways to. For us to still have a relationship Right. Outside of that. Like, I can't change what she's decided or, like, how she's gone about things. And she has reasons for her decisions. That. That's not about me. I don't know if I agree.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But I love my mom. And that's my mom. And, like, that's your mom. Yeah, it's my mom. And so my mom, she has never let me down. I could call her tomorrow and she would fly here, you know, like, she's just like. She does what she can.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And so I, like, when I needed money in all these times, she's the one who, like, even if it was a loan, like, my. She didn't really have a whole lot of extra, but, like, her version of responsibility was like, I'll give you a thousand dollars, but you're gonna pay me a thousand and one hundred dollars back. That was. I don't know.

[B]

I don't know.

[A]

That was like, her way of, like, teaching me, though. Like, this is a loan. She was teaching me about loans, which I.

[B]

That to me, makes way more sense than like, hey, you're gonna. You're gonna stay in, like, this moldy apartment and you just have to. Yeah, that makes. That makes more sense.

[A]

It was. It's very confusing, but, like. And there's obviously so much more.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But like, I'm just like basics, like chopping it down. So you have such a deep story.

[B]

Like you have a lore. There is a lore to your life.

[A]

There's a lot. There's a lot for sure. So I call my mom, I'm like, I need help moving. She brings a trailer, we pack it up, we take it to her house. She puts it like in the attic and like puts up stuff in my room. I live with my mom for a little bit, but it was very uncomfortable.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

For me. I love my mom. I wish I could live with my mom forever, but the whole thing, I just, it wasn't sitting well with me.

[B]

Obvious. Yes, yes.

[A]

For obvious reasons. And so from there I. That is when it started.

[B]

So when you started living in your car.

[A]

Yeah. Well, it was kind of like I moved in with a nanny for a little. As with a babysitter with a family for a little bit.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And because they realized like the situation, I was driving back from my mom's house to their house every day, but I was there at their house from like 6am to 6pm So I moved in with her.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And I mean, I moved in. I brought my tubs. I was like, hey.

[B]

They're like, oh, you want me to help you with your bag?

[A]

You're like, there's four more in the car containers. Yeah, we brought like the big heavy duty. Oh, sorry. Move in with her. And I'm watching her kids, I'm helping them. Like, and that was really great for me. She was very like helpful for me. She was like a mentor. Like, I needed advice on anything and she was there to give it to me.

[B]

I mean, a solid, just like solid parental person.

[A]

And. And I loved her kids. And it was. I took him to school, I picked him up from school and like, I had my time to do stuff in between.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And that was awesome. And like, so I lived with her for a while and then like, she didn't really need the full time help anymore. And like, she knew my story and she helped me so much. She, she. Because she could.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And that's where my village started was like. Because they could help.

[B]

They did.

[A]

And so went from her house to like another lady that I babysat for and then maybe like a friend here and a friend there. But then I had to be at work at like 6am so I'll just sleep in my car. And it would be like that sometimes I would just be like, oh, there's a good parking lot.

[B]

Like that's like, so terrifying and also, like, like, great.

[A]

I didn't see it at the time as being, like, crazy, though.

[B]

Well, it's crazy now because I saw a girl saying she likes to, like, quote, unquote, rotten her car and just like, scroll for an hour. And everyone's like, don't do that. Like, you're gonna get kidnapped. I'm, like, sleeping in your car.

[A]

Let me get my blanket.

[B]

It's so vulnerable.

[A]

It's so vulnerable. And I think that was always my thing was like, I remember, like, when I would go to, like, park my car, I'd be like, do I think a cop would come through here? Like, I didn't want to get, like, in trouble, but I also didn't want, like, some random man to come tap on my window, like, you know, or rob me. I'm like, no. Or worse, like, literally. But. But that was. That was like. For me, it was like, the easy way out because I was like, oh, my gosh, I'm going to sleep at 10 o'clock. I gotta be back up at, like, 5 to get to this lady's house at 6. I'll just ride it out here. Instead of driving an hour. Driving back an hour. Like, yeah, it made sense.

[B]

So what you're saying is, like, you had the option to, like, stay somewhere, but you were like, this is.

[A]

I feel like I could always stay with the people I babysat for. Yeah, I could have called any of them.

[B]

Did you ever feel like you were, like, putting them out? And I don't say that you were.

[A]

But did you feel, like, awkward or, like a burden? A little bit, because I was like, you guys have the biggest hearts in the world. Like, you're helping me because you can. But, like, I felt like everyone felt so bad for me and that's why they were letting me. And they did. Yeah. But, you know, I had other families who, like, didn't know. Like, even now, like, I've had so many of them reach out to me, like, since I've talked more about it. And they're like. Like, if I had known, yeah, I would have done so much more. Or like, we love you so much. Like, you have such a special place in our hearts. And, like, I know that I could have called any of them. And that's like, that was my village. Like, was. Was like, any. Like, I mean, just everyone was so willing to help and.

[B]

But I almost feel like you're the, like, upbringing you had. I almost feel like you were forced to do things on your own a lot. So in this instance, you were like, I'm just gonna do it on my own.

[A]

Yeah, I did. Like, I was. I was taught independence at a.

[B]

Which I'm sure have carried into now. Like your current life.

[A]

I think my thing is like, if my mom hadn't raised me the way she would, like my mom raising me until I was 11, you know, that age, that was the best thing that she's ever done. All my morals, all my values, they came from my mom. Yeah, I want to go to church. I wanna. I love, like, I love God. Like, and that is like such a big part of my story is like, I literally don't think I'd be like where I am without like my faith because I'm like, there were times where I literally didn't have anything. You know, I had like, items.

[B]

And that's the one thing that you had. Yeah, was like faith.

[A]

The craziest thing is though, I remember, like I fell off in my faith so hard and this is something I struggled with for a long time, was like, I didn't want people to know. So that car I was sleeping in, it was an Audi. It. But it was a 2000. Like 10.

[B]

Yeah, eight.

[A]

I don't know. Audi that broke down every single day. And no one knew that though. They just knew that I had an Audi.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And no one would know that I was like sleeping in it sometimes. And like, I.

[B]

It's crazy because, like that just shows that, like. And this is why social media can be so fake, because you can really just portray a certain thing.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

But nobody actually knows people who have.

[A]

Nice bags or things like that. Doesn't mean they live a nice lifestyle like you guys.

[B]

Now all of my designer bags, the first few years of Isaac playing were from China.

[A]

Well, that's what I was going to say. I was like, gosh, like when I was sleeping in my car, I had like a little Gucci. Like it was like $10. I don't know. But no one knew that.

[B]

Exactly.

[A]

I'm sure people knew that. But like, to me it like that was. I was finding validation in social media. And I think that a lot of people struggle with that. Truly.

[B]

Like, I see that I struggle with that.

[A]

Yes, I think we all do. I try not to as like, I think it's something that I, like, was so self aware about. After all of these things, I look back and I'm like, that was kind of crazy.

[B]

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[A]

So, okay, wait, we have to backtrack just a tiny bit. I'm sorry. So lived with all the families and, like, bounced around with my. This is like, I bounced around with families that I babysat for. Family, like, like friends.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So one of my friends I was like, living with, I lived with her for a summer and then I lived with. Gosh, I've lived with like so many people, but I.

[B]

That breaks my heart.

[A]

No, it's crazy. It's great. Like, I moved in, like, with bags, 11 different homes. That's crazy. And, and that's not like my little, you know, hey, can I spend the night? You know, that was like me moving in, like, can I stay here for a few weeks? And I ended up asking. This was like, I. I finished high school, graduated, and I needed, I wanted to get a house, but I needed like a little bit of time to like, save, get my life together, rent a house, start college. Right. And one of my best friends had a birthday party and I met one of her friends at the Birthday party. And she heard my story, and she was like, oh, my gosh. We became really close friends. And she was like, why don't you just move in with us? And I was like, okay, you know, I'm like, ready to go?

[B]

You're like, great. My bags are in the car.

[A]

And her mom was like, well, what if you move in with my sister? She's got two boys. They graduated from Ole Miss. They've already. They're done with school. They have, like, all these bedrooms, and, like, they've got. They've got nothing but love to give. And so I did. I was like, okay, I'll just move in with you guys for a month. Hey, like, I'm just moving in my tub.

[B]

There's no roaches in here. Nothing.

[A]

No, it was. It was not roaches. And I move in and really took a turn. Like. Like, I stayed a month. And they were basically like, no, you're, like, gonna stay another month, right? And I was like, right, Are you gonna have me into this? Yeah. It was like, months to years. And he though. That couple, like, they have done everything.

[B]

Do you still talk to them now?

[A]

Oh, gosh, every day.

[B]

Oh, my gosh, every day.

[A]

They have done everything. Like. Like, they are family.

[B]

That's so special.

[A]

Yeah. And like. Like, I need advice if, like, I'm calling them, like, if I go to jail. Ups and downs. Right. You know, like, I. They just do so much for me. And. Sorry, you got, like, birds out there.

[B]

I'm just out.

[A]

You're like, yeah, they just did something to the birds. But they've done so much for me. And I would not be where I am without them. But they. So I met Kaden, like, after living with them for a while.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And I was like, having him just, like, come hang out until, like, 4:00am and they were like.

[B]

They're like, I think we need to step in as parents.

[A]

Yeah, it might be time to, like, get your own place. Yeah, they helped me do that, and they helped me find a safe place. He helped coast, like, you know, like, wow.

[B]

So they were like, let. We're gonna help you stand on two feet, but in a very solid, healthy way.

[A]

We're gonna be your best backbone and, like, guide you through it. Make. Let's make sure you're in school.

[B]

So it wasn't like a. You're kicked out. Like, it was like, let us help you. It was like.

[A]

It was like, how much do you need? Like, you're making this, but is that enough? Yeah, can we give you more? And, like, with My dad, it was like, I need a hundred dollars, and good God, the world was ending.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And you know, and that was so hard as a kid. And I look back now and I'm like, how did I survive on 500amonth if that was guaranteed?

[B]

Yeah, like, that's.

[A]

That's crazy.

[B]

I don't know.

[A]

Me either. But I'm here and I'm kicking.

[B]

Right. But I feel like all that, like, your entire story made you so strong. And it also shows like, you worked your ass off and, like, you know what it's like to not see a dime.

[A]

100.

[B]

And so then you met Kaden.

[A]

Yes, and we moved in quick. We, like, hung out for a couple months. And they were like, guys, this is like every night. Like you guys. And it was like a respect thing. Like, I. Yeah, I was crossing a boundary there. Like, having him over super late every night, you don't do that to your. Like, that's like. But I loved him. I was like, he's mine.

[B]

Yeah. You're like, this is. What do you mean? So then you guys move in together quick.

[A]

Yeah, we move in. And because he needed a place, he was in like a dorm. And like, he's six. Six. His bed was like this big, so his feet are hanging off. I love that. And like, God, like, when I would try to spend the night, I'm like on top of him, like, trying to sleep.

[B]

Whenever I was in college, I was like, oh, wow, this mattress is the same mattress that Isaac has to sleep on. Like, my feet are hanging off.

[A]

Literally. Yeah, like, it's crazy. And so he needed a place. I needed a place. Like, so we moved in together and it was great. We had like a nice little apartment. It was nice. It was like a. A nicer.

[B]

When did Nil start?

[A]

Okay, so. And I always kind of introduced to 2022-2022-2022-2023. But he didn't season. So it wasn't. That wasn't even nil. He was already at Memphis. He got. He got put on scholarship. That was. He wasn't on scholarship. He was a walk on. Okay, so he got put on scholarship. I think it was that year too. Or maybe that right before that season. That season was kind of like, okay, you can do this for this business and they'll pay you this. I think that at 2020-2023, that football, right? His like, what do they send you, a 1099.

[B]

Oh, I. Isaac didn't get any nil.

[A]

He got. Kaden got $3,000. That was an IO for us.

[B]

That's kind of nice. Okay, first zero.

[A]

Hey, look, like, I'm working. Like, that was crazy.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Like, that was good.

[B]

I joke all the time. Everyone's like, oh, yeah. Like, Isaac is Ali sugar dad. I'm like, in college, Isaac made $0 because you're gone every single day. You don't have the opportunity. You can't even go and get a job. I'm pret. You can't before nil. No, you had to, like, lie if you had a job. So I was paying for all the dates, like, gas. It's crazy, right?

[A]

100%. And that's, like, how, like, I think, like, you know, his family helped with, like, rent and, like, his car and stuff, but, like, we kind of did everything else, and so. But he couldn't. They don't have time to work. Like, when are you going to work? You're leaving at 5am Coming home for an hour, leaving again. Like, like, you don't. They don't even have time to have.

[B]

A job, even, like, when it comes to, like, setting yourself up. If you're not going to the NFL in terms of career, like, finding an internship, like, if you're playing a college, a collegiate sport, there is no opportunity for you to, like, better yourself and, like, advance yourself in a career. Unless you, like, go to grad school and, like. But then you have to pay more. Yeah. So messy.

[A]

So. So then that next year is when he transferred to Ole Miss. He hit the portal. Like, that day he hit the portal. It was like, phones off the walls. He had, like, 30 offers.

[B]

Like, it was incredible.

[A]

It was crazy. Into big schools. Like, you know, and so we, like, picked our top four, and we were like, we're gonna go visit these schools. And we went and visited Louisville, and we went and visited Ole Miss and. Or we went and visited Louisville. And he loved it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And after Louisville, he. We were supposed to fly from Louisville to Miami to visit Miami. And we. We're literally like, an. We get to the airport, and we're, like, an hour away from getting on this plane, and we're like, we can't go. We're like, we can't go. Like, it's just. We. We wanted to. For the experience. And, like, obviously, it's a great program, but we knew his credits, like, he was gonna lose so many credits. He would have been in college for four more years. You're like, you guys, you're already gonna.

[B]

Be 25 weekend, and the clock is ticking.

[A]

So we, like, unfortunately didn't go to that and then we didn't go to. There was another one. I think it was Oregon. Yeah, it was Oregon.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And that would have been so fun, but, like, again, it just wasn't. There was something about it. They had. Had brought a tight.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Something about it didn't seem like it was a good fit. So he was like, I want to go to Ole Miss. So we go to Ole Miss. It was like we stepped on canvas, and it was like, okay, home. Where's the contract?

[B]

Yeah. Like, this is incredible. And how old was this before. After you got married?

[A]

This was. Was after.

[B]

After you got married?

[A]

This was before we got married.

[B]

So then when did you guys move? What city is Oxford?

[A]

So it's only an hour away from Memphis. So we.

[B]

I do not know geography. I did not know those two are close together.

[A]

Yeah, it's like Memphis, Oxford.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Just down. It's like Tennessee, Mississippi. It's like. It's. It's like a state line.

[B]

I didn't know they touched. I did not know Mississippi is.

[A]

They touch.

[B]

I need to look at a map.

[A]

It's kind of weird because, like, some parts of Mississippi, people are like, memphis. Like. Like people like. Like you'll say Memphis. And like, some people assume it's like the South Haven.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

It's very mappy, but, like, they kind of merge.

[B]

It's mappy. So then, like, were you pregnant when you. When he transferred to Ole Miss?

[A]

No.

[B]

No.

[A]

No. Okay. So we weren't married yet. So that was in February. He moved to Oxford in February.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

And that April, we got engaged. July, we got married.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

So.

[B]

But there was no question, like, when he decided to go to Ole Miss, it. You. Well, you also had your son Mac.

[A]

Yeah. And for me, I felt like moving. I was like, moving. That's a big step. You want me to move for you? Like, I need a ring, I think. But, like, that's just the next. Next step. I'm like, if we're moving to a new city, like, we love each other. Like, he agreed. He was like, if we're moving, like, we. We're getting married. Like, you know, whether it be whenever. We hadn't decided when it would be, but we knew that, like, we wanted to do that. Yeah. And we kind of thought about, like, getting engaged, like, before we moved. Yeah. But then it just, like, everything's so quick. I mean, it was like, you know, you have your meetings at Ole Miss and you sign your contract. You're there, like, the next week. You know, it was so fast, so it's crazy.

[B]

Though. Because, like, you, it seemed like nothing scared you.

[A]

No.

[B]

Like, the idea of moving to a new city where, like, you don't know anybody, you don't have a support system, and you also have a son. And you know that Kaden is not gonna be there every day to, like, pour the milk and the cereal. It's like, all you. None of that terrified you.

[A]

I think Kaden really thought of me with going to Ole Miss because it was only an hour away from home if we needed somebody. But when we did that visit, it was home.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Like, it was like, these people, you've known them your whole life. Like, everyone you meet, it was just like, oh, my gosh. And like, that football community, it's like.

[B]

Did you guys just, like, blend in seamlessly?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

You know, like the small towns, like, Friday Night Lights. Like, your whole town, like, rocks for Friday night.

[B]

Oxford. Oxford exists because of Ole Miss. Like, it is what it is because of Ole Miss.

[A]

The community is so built around football, and it's just such a special atmosphere, but they just accept you and your flaws and your past. Schools, like, they just, like, take you.

[B]

Welcome.

[A]

We're the new home. Like, incredible, special.

[B]

And so you got. Then you get. You get married.

[A]

Yes. July.

[B]

July, you get pregnant.

[A]

August, maybe. July.

[B]

Were you like, oh, okay, we're in a new city. I'm pregnant. I already have a son.

[A]

Like, I said, I want a baby. I wanted her.

[B]

You're like, I. I just, like, wanted.

[A]

I wanted a second to not be too far.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I didn't want it to be too far apart in age gap.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Because, like, I wanted them to be able to be friends. But I. But obviously, Mac was. That was a surprise.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Love, love.

[B]

A lovely surprise.

[A]

Surprise. I wouldn't change over the world, but with Romy, it. It was like we wanted a second so that he could have a friend.

[B]

Yeah. You know, and. Oh, my gosh, I just can't. I think of all the times that I. Because Isaac and I went to different colleges, so I think of all the times that I drove down to Notre Dame to, like, just sit in his house and wait for him. He comes home at 6pm and is like, okay, let's go to bed at 8. And I'm like, okay, so I'm literally here for five days and licorice you is for, like, a few hours here and there. So being a parent, I mean, like, that doesn't. Was that so hard?

[A]

Feel like since I had nannied for so long, like, motherhood and I. I mean, I Was like the three year old of the baby doll.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Like, I. Motherhood has always just been such a natural thing for me. It didn't scare me. Like, I've always said, like, I was built to be a mom. And I feel like most women are. They just, like, some don't know it until they are.

[B]

Until it's. I. I've actually mentioned on POD on my podcast before that, like, I never felt the, like, I'm made to be a mom feeling. But, like, now that I am a mom, like, oh, no, I got this. Like, I know exactly what I'm doing. Like, intuition takes over.

[A]

Yes, 100%. So I just saw. I was always so confident with everything. And, like, Kaden was like. Like, I remember we're in the hospital.

[B]

Holding, like, a football.

[A]

He's, like, holding him. Him holding Mac. His Max head is, like, in right here, like, with him, and Max head starts sinking back, and Kaden's like, can you come fix his head? And I'm. I've just given birth. And Kaden's like, can you pick him up and give him to me? And I'm like, sure, what else can I do?

[B]

Yeah, like, do you need a water? Can I get a couple of ice? Exactly.

[A]

So, like. But, like, he was such a natural. Truly. Like, I mean, it was so quick, but, like, it didn't scare me. Like, and having another didn't scare me. I was so excited. I love a. I love a squishy baby.

[B]

Like, oh, no. I. It's crazy. Now I'm like, wait, I miss, like, the newborn, like, scrunch and everything. But, oh, my gosh. I'm just think about the postpartum experience. Like, not only is he playing football, he's not playing in the NFL where, like, you can make your own decisions. Like, you're an adult and this is a job.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

In college, I feel like people are making decisions for you because they're like, oh, you know, you're still a kid. Or, like, X, Y, and Z. So even, like, you going into labor, obviously, they were like, okay, go ahead. Like, go be with her. But, like, it's not like he can. There. There's no leniency.

[A]

I. There was, like, questions on if he would be at the birth because he was so dedicated.

[B]

He dialed it.

[A]

He didn't want to miss a practice. And I see it both ways. I see it like, oh, you should drop everything. But then I also see this dream that he is working, worked so hard for, and I'm like, oh, we'll have more babies.

[B]

No, it's so funny. Isaac and I always joked that he was like, oh, if I'm at a Super bowl, like, and you went into labor, what happens? Like, are we gonna have Morgan? I was like, I'm not calling you. I can do this on my own. It's my game day. You got your game day. I got my game day. This is my Super Bowl. So that in and of itself is crazy. And just having now two kids and him declaring like, okay, I'm gonna go and, like, train for the NFL draft. It's so crazy because I think back on everything me and Isaac did, and it felt like so just like, spur of the moment. Okay, let's do this. Okay, let's do that. But you have a family, a full family that you have to take into account.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But again, it seems like you're not scared.

[A]

I. I think the unknowns are very, like, hard. You've got, you know, he's projected to be a late round pick or a free agent, which is borderline. And I'm almost like, well, if you're gonna be a seventh round, you might as well let us pick where we go, you know? Like.

[B]

Like, Isaac was in the seventh round and got paid less than free agents. So it gets messy.

[A]

I just think, like, as a tight end, I mean, he's coming in with a. This is the biggest tight end class that I. I think that there has really been a lot. There's like 30 of them.

[B]

It's so crazy, and I don't even think I've ever talked about this, but the class that you go into in the NFL draft determines a lot.

[A]

Last year there were, like, 16 tight ends, and this year there's like, 30. Kaden didn't get a combine invite, which we were all like, what? Like, no one really understood that, but it just. It happens how it happens. And so he's got pro day. So he'll go to pro day. Do pro day. Just. Which I think would be really good for him to go out and show out at pro day instead of like, what if you have an inconsistent day at. At the combine and then you do good? You know?

[B]

Isaac got injured at the combine.

[A]

No.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Did he really?

[B]

Yeah, he, like, pulled it. I don't know. He pulled a hammy or something.

[A]

That's all.

[B]

Isaac, you're weak. No, no. But it affected his trap, like, when he got drafted. So it's. It is crazy to think about.

[A]

I feel like I'm such a. Like, God has a plan for everything, and there's a reason for everything and a time for everything. And I'm like, there is a reason that you weren't there.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Maybe he would have pulled his hand.

[B]

Yeah. Curse of the hammies.

[A]

You never know. Like, but I think. Think that he's going to do great at pro day.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Then you kind of get a better idea of, like, okay, what are things looking like?

[B]

You know, and pro day is at your college, so there's like, a level of comfortability, which, for the people listening, pro day is. It's like when NFL scouts come to your college.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And you essentially, like, work out, do drills and show them, like, kind of what you're made of.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And it's at your college, though, so I feel like there's a level of comfortability there. Like, you are around people that, you know, it's. The combine is like, you're rooming with somebody random in a hotel in Indianapolis.

[A]

Yeah. Crazy. All the same. He.

[B]

Like, how is he? How is he feeling? How are you feeling?

[A]

I was feeling so confident until I learned. This is what I learned. I learned that when you get drafted, that doesn't mean you're on the team.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I didn't know that. So I was like. I was like, okay, in May, we'll be fine. We'll get a house where, like, we'll, you know, we'll run a house. We're fine. But then I was like. Kaden was like, well, rosters don't come out till, like, August. And I was like, sorry, what?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Or July.

[B]

Like, Isaac literally got drafted to the Los Angeles Chargers. Got cut.

[A]

Yes. And that's. So now I'm like, okay, so I'm gonna build a stable home in Oxford, and you can go soul searching. No, but, like, no, but I mean, you don't know. You can be cut and picked up and cut and picked up. And we do have these kids to think about. And, like, Mac is in school, and.

[B]

Like, you can just up and move every time. And it's. That's when I saw other wives, girlfriends going through, like, making their own decisions. When Isaac first got into the NFL, I was like, why would nobody. Why would any wife or girlfriend would not want to be living with their significant other? And then I'm like, oh, they have kids. Kids.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Oh, they're in school age.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Oh, if you get cut 24 hours later, you're in a different team. It's not, like, fun and games where I'm just like, oh, Vegas called. Like, see you in Vegas. Like, let me call the dog sitter. AKA My mom and it kids. It's way more intense.

[A]

Yeah. And it is, like, I love to travel with the kids. Like, when he was in Nashville training, I was going to Nashville. Like, I was in Nashville more than we were in Oxford.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But having that home to come back to and, like, that stable place where, like, you can hang their clothes up in the closet and, like, things like that is, like, so important to me. So we kind of just decided, like, let's have a house in Oxford for now. Maybe we'll pick a new home one day. But, like, Oxford is so home for us. Like, Memphis cannot be home. It's.

[B]

Do you own your house in Oxford?

[A]

We don't right now. We're looking for one right now. We're trying to find one.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Because we. I'm just gonna tell you in Oxford, if we rent this year, it'll be $50,000 for the year here. Granted, we need a family home.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

But you've got these college. Some of these college Girls are paying $5,000 for a house, $6,000 for a house for a month.

[B]

And it's like, the parent money at SEC schools is.

[A]

There's just. And when you have schools like that, where it's, like, a lot of it is an expensive school.

[B]

It's a wealthy school. Yeah.

[A]

And so. And, like, with that, it's a small town, but there's such a demand for property, and that's where it gets so expensive. But you do have families who can't afford it. I cannot afford to pay $800,000 for a house today. Like, that's a lot of money. And so we rented, and I feel like every year we justified renting, we were like, okay, one more year, One more year. One more year, one more. Seven houses later. We've rented seven houses.

[B]

Holy.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Oh, my God. I thought I moved a bunch in my life. You definitely have outdone me. You've definitely outdone me.

[A]

We have moved a lot, and we never, like, had movers. We just borrowed the football guys. And, you know, we've only lost a few. A few things in the mix of it, like, a few falls, but that's okay.

[B]

So then your plan with the NFL is like, we're just gonna wait and see, and we'll ride it out.

[A]

And, like, I think when roster. Like, when the roster comes out, wherever he is, you know, assuming he, like, you know, makes a team, he's the hardest worker. I don't see himself not making a team. And, like, his mindset is, well, I was a walk on in college, I had to earn a scholarship. I had to. You know, he earned everything for himself. And I think that's like, his mindset now is like, I'm just gonna go work as hard as I can, put everything I've got out on the table. Yeah, if it's meant to be, it will be. And if not, maybe he'll be a coach.

[B]

No, literally, it's crazy because, like, that's when I have such a problem with, like, people talking down on practice squad. And.

[A]

And it's.

[B]

Everyone's like, oh, my God, your husband's on practice squad. I'm like, he was not for so long of his career. I'm like, but that's. That's all people will remember. But, like, there are only so many spots on an NFL roster, and then there are only so many spots on a practice squad.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

So I feel like no matter what position you're in in this NFL world, like, you should be grateful.

[A]

I was just gonna say, I don't think people understand. To even be considered for anything that has to do with.

[B]

To get a workout for an NFL team is something that should be celebrated.

[A]

You're. You're in a 1%. You're in a less than 1% in the football world to be in the NFL. Like, you are your lottery ticket, truly.

[B]

Exactly.

[A]

That's how it is.

[B]

So where are you guys gonna be watching the draft?

[A]

His house. His home back in Michigan.

[B]

Okay, wait, I didn't know he was from Michigan.

[A]

Lake Orion.

[B]

Okay, that's like, an hour away from my house where I grew up.

[A]

Really?

[B]

That's crazy.

[A]

Small world.

[B]

Okay, so you guys will be watching from there with his whole family, I'm sure, and I guess we'll see.

[A]

I know. It's crazy.

[B]

I'm excited for you guys. And I even said that I was telling my producer of the podcast. I was like, okay, well, after the NFL draft and like, maybe, like, in August, like, we'll get Callie back on the show and we can follow up about. About how crazy this process is. It is crazy because I'm a little jealous of you. I. I wish I could go back and redo that whole journey. Even though there were so many ups and downs, it is just, like, a wild ride. And now that Isaac's retired, it's, like, so sad that it's done. So I'm so excited for you guys, like, even entering this journey, no matter what it looks like. I'm so excited for you guys excited, too.

[A]

It's. It's. It is like a Wild ride for sure.

[B]

And I think it's also special that you guys get to do it with your kids. So where can the people find you on social media?

[A]

My Tik Tok is Mac Lovers.

[B]

Is it Mac Lovers?

[A]

Yeah. When I started it, I actually, like, never changed the username. I started it for my friends. I was like, well, if I'm moving to. I started it when I moved to Oxford. I was like, if I'm going to move, I need, like, somewhere where my friends can watch my kids. Kid.

[B]

Absolutely.

[A]

Which is Mac. And I was like, they love Mac. Mac Lovers. So it's Mac Lovers with three S's. And then my Instagram is Cali Priest.

[B]

I'm obsessed with that.

[A]

You're like, who's the corn?

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Who cares about that? Okay, well, everybody be sure to go follow her because I'm excited to see what happens over the next few months. Thank you so much for coming on and the listeners. I guess we'll see you next Sunday. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.