← Sunday Sports Club with Allison Kuch
Sunday Sports Club with Allison Kuch
Having a baby during football season with Kennedy Stidham
00:50:00
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- [00:00]
A
The following podcast is a Dear Media Production.
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B
What's up, guys? Welcome back to Sunday Sports Club Podcast, a podcast all about sports told by a woman. And that woman is me. Hi, guys. I'm your host, Alison Cooch, and I'm kind of rushing through this intro because I really want to talk to my friend Kennedy Stidham, who quite literally got me through my postpartum experience while in Texas. I. We can talk all about it, but she is a content creator, a mother of three, and wife of Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham. So welcome to the podcast. Ken. Hi.
- [00:36]
A
I'm so excited to be here. You're so professional.
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B
I know the professional part. And now we can just kind of get into yapping.
- [00:43]
A
Yeah, absolutely. That's just. We're just gonna catch up. Also, don't make me cry by saying I got through your postpartum. Are you kidding me?
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B
Like, you're the only reason I left my house in Texas.
- [00:53]
A
So sweet. Are you kidding?
- [00:55]
B
Absolutely. It's. It's actually so crazy how much of a difference like, when me and Isaac look back in Texas, we're like, oh, we didn't do much except we went to, like, the Sims house all the time, Literally.
- [01:07]
A
That was so fun to have you guys here. I'm kind of sad, like, whenever you were like, I had such a bad time in Texas. Like, I totally understood because one, you were like three, four months postpartum. Like, Scotty was tiny. I look back at the pictures and Lennon's like, holding Scotty like a little doll, and I'm like, oh, my gosh. Like, I didn't real. Like, it didn't register back then how fresh postpartum you were. Obviously, I'd been through it, so I was like, I get it. I just want to make sure that they know they have people here in Texas, even if it's a 30 minute drive. Like, you know us, we're out in the country. And I was like, just come hang. Like, it was so. It was fond memories while you guys were here. And I'm sad you left, but I understand. Like, I get it because, like, it's
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B
not everybody thing, though, girl.
- [01:47]
A
I mean, you living in California, you have everything there. Like, I get it. Trust me. You. Like, when you came here, obviously we just have land. And I like the contrast. Mainly just because of in season, we live summer. We don't ever, you know, choose, like, whether it's right Austin Patriots or Vegas or Broncos. Like, we're just kind of all over the place. So it's nice to have, like, Roots with, like, somewhere we want to live and no one in our backyard. So if you don't want that, it's not for you at all. And I get it.
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B
Yeah. Quickly realize that, like, I needed. Not that.
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A
Yeah. And you have, like, juice down the street. Like, no. You have to drive 30 minutes for something. Like. And if you can't cook, it's not fun. I can't cook. Like, it's. Yeah. Season. So I'm like, there we go.
- [02:36]
B
You're like, I kind of get it. Wait. But it's funny, though, because how many months postpartum are you right now?
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A
I'm five, which is crazy.
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B
It's insane. Loop, like, actually. Okay, so I'm excited to talk to you about that, too. But first off and foremost, how is your off season been? Because your off season was kind of cut a little bit short because you guys made it so far into playoffs. So how is offseason been off season?
- [03:02]
A
Well, first off, the beginning of it was, like, so depressing. And I don't use that word lightly. Like, I know people struggle with depression, so I am like, literally saying, like, I really think that we were going through, like, a sort of two week depression period because it was like, I mean, obviously, like the whirlwind that it was at the end of the season of just. Yeah. I mean, it just everything happened at once. And then we kind of were like, oh, we can go to the super bowl. And it's like this little carrot dangling in front of your face. And then it was just ripped from us with, like, external factors that I can only attest to God revealing his plan for whatever that was for that moment. But, yeah, it was. It was crazy. Right now we're definitely more into a routine and, like, off season.
- [03:49]
B
Yeah.
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A
But at the beginning, it was so, like, usually, I mean, you know, at the beginning you're, like, looking forward to diving into time with your husband, with the family. And then at that point, we were like, oh, wait, let's like, not be excited about off season because we rather go to the Super Bowl. Yeah. So just the beginning of it was heartbreaking. And it took us a few weeks to really get adjusted, like, way longer than usual, so.
- [04:13]
B
Oh, I'm sure. I think especially because, like, the chances of making it to the super bowl are, like, so, like, it's only two teams every year, obviously, but, like, even making it to, like, the last round of playoffs right before the super bowl is super rare. So I can only imagine just, like, what a mind game that is to, like, like, oh, it was so close. It, like, almost makes your off season. Like, no, I don't actually want the off season yet.
- [04:35]
A
Yes. Yeah. And especially if you're like, right there at the end, you're like, let's just finish this out. Let's get it done. And. And at that point, like, obviously when he's the backup, like, we want, we're cheering for everybody in front of us, but, like, when you're. When he was starting, we were like, oh, my God. Like, this feels like the whole city's resting on your back. I'm not. Like, I'm not. Like, this is not my doing. I swear. Like, it was crazy.
- [05:01]
B
Was such a difference. It was like, yeah. You're like, wait, okay, this is, like, way more intense. This is a lot. Like, this is. I'm sure, like, you guys had to process through so much in like a two week time span.
- [05:14]
A
Yes. I mean, hit, like, from the. I mean, gosh, now it feels so crazy how all this stuff, like, it feels like the world while you're dealing with it. And then now it's like looking back and like, okay, now I can, like, think through and process it a little bit more. But like, back then, I was just so in shock. I think the whole week it was like seven days because it was from Saturday to Sunday or Sunday to Saturday, one or the other. Because during the playoffs, you play on, like, Saturday, Sundays. I forget. But it was just seven days of pure, like, wrapping my head around the fact that, like, our very close friend just lost his dream of playing in a possible super bowl and AFC championship. And then my husband is getting his dream of even just playing a game. Like, which is such a contrast of things. Like, his dream is just to play football. He's doing it, but, like, to start and play is just a whole different ball game and getting that opportunity, like, without it, you know, it was like, in heartbreaking way, but it was just chaos. Chaos of all things. We forgot the first question now because I'm just like, what is going on?
- [06:21]
B
I'm like, hopefully this podcast is, like, making you think like. Or like, what is it? Like, get closure.
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A
Like, yeah, this is therapy.
- [06:30]
B
Yeah, like, exactly. Exactly, this is therapy. So, like, obviously there was a whirlwind of events, and then you guys had, like, the most snowy game I've ever seen in my entire life. Like, there's so many factors that, like, probably played into your mental just being like, what is going on? I'm sure it was also like, when your husband found out that he was going to be Starting in that game, it was probably like, call the families, like, get everybody out. What is like, such a whirlwind of events? So then when you guys realized you weren't going to the super bowl, how quickly were you like, okay, like, let's get our asses back to Texas. Let's go home. Like, let's.
- [07:08]
A
Yeah, Jarrett. Immediately, the game was over. First off, we were like, all the kids were there. I'm. I get so many funny messages about them screaming, crying on the broadcast. And I'm like, yeah, it was cold. Okay. And also, yeah, that was probably just a testament of how the day was gonna go. Looking back, I'm like, God was giving me a wink with my kids balling. And I'm like, same. Honestly, same. I was bawling, too. But after the game ended, we immediately were like, we gotta get out of here. Like, it was just like, we needed the mental just, like, remove ourselves. Jarrett is also kind of like that towards the end of the season anyways. Like, when we're. The season ends, he's like, I want to go home. Like, I've been here for eight months in this building from 4am until 8pm like, and quarterbacks go, like, longer than everybody in general. So it's just kind of like, mental workload. And soon as it ended, he was like. He texted, like, our. We have, like, our organizers that help us, like, pack up and leave. Because mom of three, it's really hard for me to pack up 12 people included. He's my kid, too. Like, I was. He texted them, and we got our car shipped and all of our stuff shipped in the cars immediately. Probably the second day. Then we were home by Wednesday. So game ended Sunday. We were home by Wednesday.
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B
Like, that's insane.
- [08:22]
A
Said bye to my friends. See you soon.
- [08:25]
B
You know what? See you next year. Maybe.
- [08:28]
A
All I just had to. We just. It was just remove ourselves and then go mourn what just happened in the comfort of our home. Home instead of being so surrounded. Because even in Denver, like, even walking outside, like, everyone, like, neighbors are like, we're so sorry. It felt like a death. Like, it really did. I hate to be that dramatic, but, like, in our world of sports, it's our livelihood, so it's just kind of, like, so present. And we were like, we gotta just.
- [08:56]
B
It's funny, the.
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A
Which.
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B
This is a kind of a different situation, but you'll. I can kind of, like, resonate with you here, because when Isaac got cut from the Raiders and I was due in two weeks, I was like, I need to get out of Vegas. Like, I need to remove myself immediately because, like, it just didn't feel like home anymore. And I just was like, there's no purpose here.
- [09:15]
A
Like, yeah, you're, like, on to the next thing. I got to prepare for a child.
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B
Like, yes. So it was like, I get, like, the. The quick turnaround of being like, okay, like, season's done. Like, let's get out of here. How quickly? Or have you guys, like, taken a family vacation yet?
- [09:28]
A
Yes. So we actually. Family vacation. Vacation is a loose word when you have family involved because obviously, it's just like parenting in a. A fun place. But we did, for the first time, take our, like, me and Jared a little, you know, mother father vacation together for the first time, leaving all three kids, which is a trip in itself, because 1. It's like mental warfare. Like, I'm. Three people are at my house watching one kid at a time. Like, 1, 2, 3. I have to have, like, my whole village show up for that. So leaving the house is hard. But we did go on a vacation. We went to Cabo for a wedding, which was also, you know, I was scary scared about that, just in general, because, you know, the world makes you scared right now. And I'm just like, okay, just get me in and out. But it was amazing. So beautiful and so worth it to kind of get that one on one time with Jarrett. And then we did go to Aspen as well for, like, really quick. We've dipped our toes by leaving the kids recently just for, like, 24 to 48 hours. I mean, you know, you can barely leave longer than two days without thinking. They forget about you. So I'm like, no, no, I need to come back. So we did take a long trip to Disney, which was a blast. We went to or Orlando. Otherwise, I would have hit you up if I was in California.
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B
But, yeah, I'm like. I got.
- [10:47]
A
I would have literally texted you, be like, come meet us. Just like at the zoo. We did our zoo date whenever you were in Texas. But I. Yeah, we love that. I took him. I took. We took the kids for Lennon's birthday and Madden's birthday, technically, but he was just invited because we were like, okay, let's go together. But, yeah, that was not a vacation, but it was a blast. So it was just parenting at Disney, but it was so fun.
- [11:11]
B
And when do you guys head back to Denver?
- [11:15]
A
So I love how you were like. I know the season kind of cut into off season, which, yeah, is very true. But our coaches are actually so amazing. And the Broncos are so amazing. They're pushing back our report date to like a whole month. Like, I think we go back. So, like, we went a whole month longer than everybody, so we get to go back a whole month later, which is not normal for most teams. Like, most teams, even if you do win or lose super bowl, like, you go back probably normal OTA time. But we go back like, May, which is so nice.
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B
Oh, that's so.
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A
And like, May is basically June. I can do a month of momming by myself. That's great.
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B
Oh, yeah. Because you won't move out until football season starts, which will be like, after camp.
- [11:56]
A
Yeah, I. Lennon's in school now, so it's kind of just like it's getting to that point where I always said I don't have to think about it. And then now I'm starting to have to think about stuff like that, like school and kids, like, you know, being inter. Integrated into those things. So I'm like, yeah, let's get there when I get there.
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B
So what does that look like, having a child who's like, of school age.
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A
Yeah.
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B
Married to an NFL player? Like, what does that look like?
- [12:21]
A
It looks different for a lot of people, but, like, our family specifically, we will not separate. I refuse. I'm like, no. I want him around our kids, and I want to be around Jared. I want to support him, like, whatever he gets home, whether it's 8pm or 10 or 1am, you know, from a midnight flight. But they always want us there. And he wants to wake up and see his kids. And like, those little moments he gets with them is so important. So, like, some people don't go at all during season, which is to each their own. But I'm like, that's crazy. I could not. I just. I want to be. I mean, I want to be with my husband. I'm a needy person. So I'm like, gimme, gimme.
- [12:57]
B
I think right now. And I'm like, this is like. Like, I want to hang out with him. I'm also like, super needy because I'm pregnant probably.
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A
But no, no, it's. It's a valid thing. And also, like, I don't want to have to do everything if I can lean on you a little bit, you know, like on off days, like, he gets home at like 2, and I'm like, okay, 2 to 7, I have someone to change a diaper for me instead of me changing three butts.
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B
Great. Yeah.
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A
You're like, fantastic.
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B
Well, thank you.
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A
Not including my own four butts. So let's just get there. That's a lot of butts in my household right now.
- [13:29]
B
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- [16:17]
C
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- [17:16]
B
Then like, the logistics of like, okay, we're going because three kids, I'm like, that's a lot of kids. And I mean that in the nicest way possible.
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A
Absolutely. We get it.
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B
We're moms and multiples packing for three kids for like months on end. Like, what does that look like? Do you move everything? Because I know you guys have like your furniture in Denver and you have your furniture in Texas. I feel like you guys actually have the most stable like, oh, this is our off season house and this is our like inseason house. So what does it look like in terms of like toys or like kind of like the materialistic like things?
- [17:49]
A
Absolutely. Yeah. So it's. We def. It definitely took time to get to the stability we have like, of having things in their separate spaces and like knowing what we need to pack. Like we're at the point where we leave like a closet full of clothes in Texas and I just bring like a couple like winter things that I need because like Texas, when you come in like February, it's already like 70 degrees. Fantastic. So I can leave like my heavy coats and stuff like that. So the logistics of that stays there. I just bring like, like wedding guest dresses and like stuff that I need. Like if I'm going on vacation, I bring that stuff. But as far as the Kids, it's like kind of a whole new wardrobe right now, honestly.
- [18:31]
B
Because Lenny, they're also like, growing so quick.
- [18:33]
A
Yes, yes. That's my thing is, like, I have to buy a new wardrobe for London probably every six months, which is valid because she's the first girl.
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B
Yeah.
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A
And then for Madden, I take whatever Lenin fit in, neutral wise. Because I don't care what anyone says about a sad beige mother. I was smart, because now I'm not buying double shorts, double shirts, double things. Like, I just have to buy, like, maybe like the specialty pieces. Like, I just take everything from Lennon's wardrobe that's neutral and use it for Madden. And then I probably just buy him, like, you know, a couple blue things, whatever. Greens, some more boy stuff. But, you know. Yeah. And then Nella is literally. I haven't bought one thing for Nella, which has been amazing. She just is wearing everything that big sister wore. But for them, I'm kind of just like, buying and shipping or packing, like, onesies and pajamas, like, whatever, you know?
- [19:23]
B
Yeah.
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A
But we have a process down. And then Jerry, I always give him crap because he always, like, packs like, two shorts and a T shirt for off season. He's like, I have my Texas stuff there. And I'm like, okay, we get to Texas and he buys all new stuff because I' everything's in Colorado. Nice try. Like, maybe you should listen to me. But that's not my problem. I have three other kids to worry about. Yeah. Packing and unpacking is a lot.
- [19:47]
B
A lot.
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A
But it's part of it. You know, it's just part of the
- [19:51]
B
job and part of, like, being married to a professional athlete. How long has Jared been in the NFL? Because I know you guys have been with the Patriots and then the Raiders and now the Broncos.
- [20:00]
A
Yes. So he's been in the NFL since 2019. So we're going on to year eight. So we just finished year seven going in year eight, which is cray Z. I blinked.
- [20:10]
B
No litter. That's. It's insane. It's also insane because, like, the average is like, what, two and a half years?
- [20:15]
A
Yeah.
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B
Not for long.
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A
Kudos to our babes. Like, they did. They. They're doing the thing. Like, they're doing it.
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B
What is something about the NFL lifestyle that you feel like hasn't gotten easier?
- [20:29]
A
That's a good question. I feel like what doesn't get easier is probably, like, moving back and forth that never gets easier. Or even just, like, the stress of, like. Because some people are blessed and fortunate enough, I recognize to like, be on a team for a very long time. And personally, like, if that was our path, amazing. Sometimes I really do appreciate the path of, like, going to different places because I do like to travel. I do like to put myself out of my comfort zone. And really, as long as I have my family, like, I'm okay. Like, I'm good. I will figure it out. So that aspect is. I'm getting used to it. But it never gets easier. Like, he's a free agent next year. Technically. I mean, they're always free agents, let's be honest. Like, they can always get traded. Yeah. Contract can be for 2, 3 years, 10 years. But guess what? Like, they own you. So they can trade you whenever, or they can cut you whenever. Yeah. So I've, like, gotten out of that mindset. But that will never get easier to me. Like, I feel like every year, no matter how amazing he does, I say amazing because I'm never going to say my husband does. Bad number one fan, always. Okay. Now we support them always, forever. And no matter how that goes for him, I'm always in the back of my head, like, we could be in somewhere else in two months. You know? Like, having that mindset helps it, but it never gets easier, ever.
- [21:57]
B
Well, I had. You also are, like, very outgoing. I remember Isaac side with the Raiders with, like, three games left in the football season, and you were like, hey, like. Like, hey, let's sit together. Like, here's this, here's that. Like, do you need any help? So I feel like if there's anybody that's, like, made for this lifestyle like, you, I feel like you're easily adaptable. You're like, you know what? Just, like, give me some clothes, some cute outfits, and, like, put me anywhere. And, like, I'm good.
- [22:20]
A
I'll. I'll figure it out. Maybe. I always do. But it definitely. I remember, like, whenever you guys came to the Raiders, and I think that's when Jarrett, like, all the drama had gone down, and Jarrett was, like, having his last two starts, and I kind of, like, removed myself by, like, thinking about the fact that, like, you were the new girl. And I was like, I have been the new girl twice. I'm gonna reach out to her and just let her know she's welcome and to hang with us, like, everything, and. And I feel like Vegas, I only had, like, really one or two close friends. Like, I didn't really get to get fully acclimated. So I was like, I don't want anyone to ever feel that way ever. And not that I Did I just, you know, outside of myself, and I was like, let me just throw a dm. Because, like, honestly, all my friendships started with a DM on a different team. Like, so it's just funny.
- [23:07]
B
Like, that's how I feel. Like, all the friendships that I have from the NFL have all started with, like, Instagram and, like, sliding in to someone's social media.
- [23:14]
A
Absolutely. Or just, like, who knows who. Like, honestly, it's like, hey, I have few friends that, like, aren't on Denver anymore. Like, they're on different teams. And I'm like, hey, I had this friend here, let me send you her text message. Like, or her number. A coach will be like, there that we know from somewhere. And I just. That's one of my favorite parts of the NFL is just, like, connecting with people through shared experience. And then, you know, you choose to keep up with them. Like, we do, like, years on end, you know?
- [23:38]
B
No, it's. It's actually insane. And I want to talk about something else that's insane is the fact that you gave birth during football season. So what was that like? Especially knowing, like, okay, Jarrett, especially as a quarterback, like, has so much time away from the family during football season. Oh, shit. Like, we're having a baby during football season. Like, what does that look like?
- [24:00]
A
So I. Okay, so I have April baby, London, March baby, Madden, and Nella was. I say this in the most kindest way ever. She was not planned whatsoever. I fully have planned all my season, all my babies in off season for a reason. We all know it. It's way better on the mind, body and soul to have your husband there for postpartum and just being stable and everything. And so when we found out that I was pregnant and with Nella, I had, like, a shock of, like, oh, my gosh. Okay. This is my first, like, mental breakdown. Almost like, okay, we're gonna figure it out. Time goes by, we get our schedule, find out that the games are, when I'm due, are in London. However, I am an early baby producer. Like, they all come two to three weeks early.
- [24:54]
B
Of course, your son came, like, hours after your baby shower.
- [24:59]
A
Yeah, I literally saw you guys. And then I birthed the child two hours later. Like, I was like, okay, thanks for coming, chair. I need to go to the hospital right now.
- [25:07]
B
Your babies come quick. So that probably also played into, like, the mental, like, oh, shit.
- [25:13]
A
It was a mental. Total mental game. Especially, like, once September hit, I was like, ah, I'm feeling something going on. Like, things are happening. And of course I'm Like, I'm holding this child in until after London. Like, I'm holding her in as long as I can. I'm going to make it full term. Spoiler. Did not make it full term. I made it to 37 weeks. But the most beautiful part about this was that the Broncos and, like, the organization was notified. Like, we were in constant communication. Like, they knew what was going on. With my cervix. I'm like, hey, I'm 2 centimeters dilated. 80 of Ace. You're playing Philly today. You're leaving right now. And the way it worked for London was they played in Philly, and then they left from Philly because it was closer to London. To London. So they were really gone for, like, 12, 14 days. Like, way longer than, like, a London trip. Like, a normal London trip would be, like, Wednesday through Sunday, right? Like, that's, like, five days. I mentally, I could have done that, but this was, like, a whole nother five days, like, ten full days. And so before Philly, I, like, feel things happening, and I know my body so well. I'm like, this is happening. Like, with What? I was 36 weeks, and I was like, this is what I was feeling before Matt. And, like, it's gonna happen. And I go get checked. I'm like, 3 centimeters and, like, 80%. I go, Jarrett, this child is coming either within the next 24 to 48 hours. Like, you can't go to London yet. We need to ask if there's a way we can, like, have you make a pit stop back in Denver before you go. Because, like, the way it worked out is he could come back after Philly and then meet the team in London. So we tell them that we make that plan. Like, the owners and everybody were literally. When I tell you I have never been on a team that was so accommodating, so sweet. They even offered before we even asked, which I didn't even, you know, include that in the beginning, but, like, they offered that before we even asked the permission to it. So that's why we felt comfortable with, like, notifying them. Like, hey, like, we might want to take you up on that offer. So he. We beat Philly. He flies back, gets home at, like, 10pm My water breaks at 2am Shut up. Yeah. Like, literally, we had 24 hours have this child, because keep in mind, like, he was going to meet the team in London, so I either had to go into labor or hope I went into labor or this was all for nothing because then he was gonna miss the birth. Like, I know For a fact, he would have missed the birth. But he gets. Gets home at 10pm, 11pm from Philly, whatever. And then my water breaks in the middle of the night. I go back to sleep, I wake up, it's like gushing more. So I'm like, it's go time.
- [27:48]
C
Yes.
- [27:49]
A
Like, that's my water. And I was like, okay, it's 7:00am I have until 11:00am on Tuesday to have this child. So we have her at 6pm, literally on Monday. Jared gets to spend about six hours and then he's on a plane to London. Gone. And I'm just in the hospital room. Okay, here we go. Third child. Thank God it's not my first one. Like, at least it's my third and I can just like, know what to do. So.
- [28:16]
B
Well. And you're like, okay, I've been through postpartum before. Like, I know the newborn. Like, yes. And Madden and Nella, I feel like, are not that far apart. So you're like, okay. Literally just did this, like, yeah, okay. This isn't that bad. It's actually crazy though, that, like, he had 24 hours and you were like, I can make this happen. Just give me a second.
- [28:32]
A
Yeah, I have like, very specific pregnancy inducing things that I do and it's worked three times. So wait.
- [28:40]
B
Okay.
- [28:40]
A
I actually hit me up in a few weeks if you want, because I know you're trying for vpac.
- [28:44]
B
I'm quite literally trying everything already. When we're recording this. I'm 30, 36 weeks, almost 37. And so I'm like, we need to get this baby out.
- [28:54]
A
And I can text you some, you know, some things. I'll be your birth, your birth coach.
- [29:01]
B
Yeah, you're like, I'm going to.
- [29:02]
A
Don't worry.
- [29:03]
B
Like, give me 24 hours. I got you.
- [29:04]
A
Yeah. No, for real.
- [29:06]
B
When. When it came to like, football season, then how hard was it adjusting to three kids then and like, not having Jarrett there, whereas in like, previous postpartums you had had him there.
- [29:17]
A
Yeah. So, like, you already said yourself, like, this is my third postpartum, so I feel like, mentally so much better in so many aspects. Like, I'm so excited for you to experience your second postpartum, like, life changing compared to the first. Like, I know, I know you had an amazing, like, pregnancy first time and I know your postpartum was rough due to like, being in a whole new place, but I'm telling you, like, second time around, you just realize, like, yeah, I'm moody, duh. But, like, I am so much Better mentally, I'm not thinking every sound is them, like literally suffocating or like choking or anything. Like it's so much more. And third time around is even just like, oh, okay, well, I gotta go pick up my toddler downstairs and I gotta go drop off one at school. And like, yeah, you good? You good over there? Okay, good.
- [30:03]
B
I feel like at that point. Yeah, just like, okay, cool.
- [30:05]
A
No, that's. That's even how I feel about the second one too. Like, zero to one will forever be the craziest transition. Everything after that is just like, you're integrating. It's already there. You already have the. The bones are good.
- [30:16]
B
Yeah.
- [30:17]
A
You know what to. So being postpartum in season was definitely different in the sense of like, I didn't have like his hands on help. Like, he was. He was diaper dad for every single baby. And I just was be. I'd be like, okay, here. Okay, here. And then he'd give them back to me. I would nurse and then hang out all day. But like, anytime, like, I wouldn't have to leave my bed for like at least two weeks. And the not having that this time I was at a game two weeks later. So, like, so different.
- [30:47]
B
So whatever watching, you know, I was like, this bitch is crazy.
- [30:50]
A
No, I literally, I was in a diaper, like, bleeding, changing my pad and a diaper. Like, it wasn't like terrible bleeding at that point, but like, you know, postpartum, like, open book here, I don't really care, you know, But I was like, okay, I'm going to the game. I'm going to wear something flowy, I guess, because I'm still in a diaper. So just the best part though is that I feel like football season, people naturally navigate to come visit us because, like, you kind of have to like, you know, like family or friends. Like when I come to games, like, okay, you have to come to us. Like, we are. We are sitting ducks for all of season. Like, we're not leaving. I don't even travel to away games. Like, they're gone for like, you know, four hours while they're going on a game. Like, so I just was. It was kind of working out in my favor where everyone came to visit in general and my parents could take off time to come visit and support anyways. And it was Thanksgiving and Christmas, so that was all in my. In my favor. So it really worked out well. Okay, that's in that sense.
- [31:48]
B
I do feel like Jarrett is like a very hands on dad. I mean, you would like to say Everyone is a hands on dad. But no, there's differences, kids. And I feel like that has to have been a little hard for him. Like not being able to like be there throughout, like all the newborn stuff and like even just the first few months, I feel like they changed so quickly. What, what does it look like? Like from off season to like in season? Like how you guys divide up responsibilities as parents?
- [32:13]
A
Oh my gosh. I mean, off season's obviously my favorite in that aspect because I have a husband to lean on. And don't get me wrong, like, I'm so transparent about. I have a full time nanny. Like she works 9 to 5 Monday through Friday, but she's not like, yeah, it takes a village, village, village. But there is a difference between like, I feel like NFL wives and significant others with nannies situations because like, and even like full time working parents with nanny situations. Like it's always like, I mean, doing stuff from home. Like I'm always there, so I'm always with a kid but she's just with another one. Or like I'm able to stay at home and like be with Nella while she drops off Lennon at school and then I'll go pick up Lennon from school. It's like having someone to lean on. But I have that in the off season, which is so nice because I'm my husband. So like she's just my husband in that time.
- [33:08]
B
Literally just hiring somebody to be your husband.
- [33:10]
A
I'm literally just hiring someone to talk to me and hang out with me. No. Yeah. So the difference between that is crazy. But he is definitely very hands on dad as Isaac is too. Like, it's just very so nice to have that be him be present in off season. And then like, obviously he's as present as he can in season. Like he'll will specifically like do Mondays and Tuesdays with the kids. Like we have quarterback dinners on Thursdays. Like we'll rotate to where we can have them at our house and they spend time with the kids. And then Jared also gets to see like an extra bedtime during the week, which at. During the week he usually gets to see like maybe two bedtimes, which is crazy.
- [33:45]
B
Yeah.
- [33:46]
A
But yeah, so it's, it's a total drastic difference. But it's so nice when we can be around each other more in the off season.
- [33:54]
B
Yeah, I'm sure. Postpartum for me is a really weird time in my life where I'm like, okay, I'm not pregnant anymore, so I'm not like obviously letting my bump out but at the same time, I don't really have any clothes that fit me. But I still want to feel confident in what I'm wearing because I am getting dressed every day. So insert newly if you guys are new to hearing about Nuuly. Nuuly is a subscription clothing rental service that lets you pick six styles every month for just 98amonth. And you get your choice of any six styles. You get access to thousands of styles from hundreds of brands and like, brands that you actually like. They have inclusive sizing, they have fast free shipping and returns, plus professional dry cleaning and laundry, and you get the option to buy what you love at a really great discount. So for me, I love Nuuly because I know that I have temporary needs, whether that's going to a wedding in a tropical location and I'm only going to wear the dress once or twice. Maybe I'm dressing specifically for like a holiday, maybe Easter, and I really don't think I'll ever wear the dress again. Or maybe I'm postpartum and they do have maternity too, which is great because like, you're only pregnant so much out of your life. Like, do you really want to be purchasing a ton of clothes to fit your body? Not necessarily, but you still want to feel good in the clothes that you are wearing. So newly is such a game changer for me and I will be utilizing them throughout my postpartum journey just because I know that my body is going to be changing sizes drastically, but maybe not drastically. So with Nuuly, I don't have to commit to a certain size and I can still feel confident while getting dressed every single day. So I'm a huge fan of Nuuly. Again, they have fast free shipping and returns and they do all the dry cleaning and laundry, so it's not like you have to wash it before you send it back. And they have brands that like, you actually know and love. So free people Reformation Jaded London Lioness. Like, the list goes on and on. So clearly a huge fan. Nuuly helps you have fun and get creative and explore your style without making huge commitments. So if you guys are interested in checking out Nuuly, Nuuly is a great value at $98 a month for any six styles. But right now you can get $28 off your first month when you sign up with a Code Sunday, just go to n u u l y.com and enter code Sunday at sign up to get 28 off your first month. That's n U-U-L-Y.com newly with two U's and code Sunday for 28 off your first month newly subscription clothing rental. Change your clothes. I feel like, outside of, like. Like, you don't just define yourself as, like, an M. Oh, I'm an NFL wife, and, like, that's it. Like, you also have so many things, like, outside of, like, your marriage that you're like, oh, like, I identify as, like, having this passion. I do this, and I do this, and, like, you have been successful on social media, and I know, like, you love it. So, like, I feel like also hiring help in that aspect allows you to, like, still, like, be able to fill up your cup so that you can still fill back into your family, especially throughout football season. Because I feel like sometimes it's just, like, giving, giving, giving, and, like, yeah, like, they're like, they have this, like, huge, privileged job, for sure, and, like, with the money and everything. But, like, it can also be very challenging still. Like, yeah, two things can be true.
- [37:10]
A
I feel like, absolutely. Yeah, I for sure. I resonate with that so much. Mainly just because, like, I feel like I am a better mother whenever I can unload my mental on someone else and, like, have them pick up. Like, sometimes I'm 60, 40, sometimes I'm 90 10. Oh, sorry, new at this ASMR. Here we go again.
- [37:34]
B
Right?
- [37:34]
A
No, but sometimes I'm, like, 60, 40. Sometimes I'm 90, 10. They're like, there's nothing that fills me up more in life than my kids and my family. But, like, I am a better mom when I can get a little break, even if that is, like, rotting in my bed for two hours while someone does something else. Like, someone takes care of my kids for me or like. Or like, Jarrett goes and takes them to the grocery store for me, or my nanny will just, like, watch a movie with them. Like, I'm like, okay, perfect. Like, I can take this time for me to, you know, do work for myself or to go get a smoothie. Crazy. Get my toes. Yes. So, like, I realized, like, having a village and having help and, like, also, my family is, like, super involved. Jared's brother is super involved. Like, when we can lean on other people. And it took me a long time to do that. And I'm sure you probably feel the same way to, like, leave and trust your kids with somebody else. Oh, my gosh. It's the hardest thing ever, but one
- [38:32]
B
first year, I was like, I don't trust anybody. And then I know you slowly. And then once you find the people that you do trust, you're like, I trust you with my child. I never have to worry about when you leave the house with my child. And, like, that is something that I will never take for granted is like, I love the person who works for us so much because, like. Like, she's part of our family at this point because we don't have family near us. Like, you guys don't have family near you, and that can be so hard.
- [38:57]
A
Absolutely. And, like, I don't know how. I'm like, my mom did it. Like, she had four girls. I remember babysitters. But, like, she was so present. And I'm like, she probably thinks, like, oh, my gosh, Kennedy, like, what are you doing? I'm like, well, I can do this because, like, we are blessed to have the means to do that. Like, I am not naive to that at all. Like, I know how hard that is. And, like, some people put their kids in, what's it called, daycare. Sometimes they do daycare. And, like, I didn't want to do that, so I had the means to be able to do that in my house and, like, be in the other room while she's right there and, like, still have her right next to me, like, whenever I wanted her and, like, get stuff done and then pop in and then whatever. Like, I'm very present, and there's nothing, again, nothing that fulfills me more than being with my kid and being blessed enough to, like, have the means to do that. Like, I recognize that is such a luxury, and I'm so thankful for it. So my heart goes out to anybody who, like. Yeah, it's just. It's. It's hard. It's hard. But, yeah. And you. You know, whenever you're here in Texas, I literally was like, ally, you need a moment. Like, take my nanny. Do you remember that? I was like, yeah, you literally.
- [40:02]
B
I remember you even.
- [40:03]
A
Here's her number.
- [40:04]
B
You were like, oh, I don't need her. Like, in the mornings on these days. Like, here you go. And I was like, oh. Like, I don't have to, like, do it. And just having somebody, like, be, like, all hands on deck. I think we did, like, three hours a week when Scotty turned, like, four or five months.
- [40:20]
A
Yes.
- [40:21]
B
It was like, I'm in the other room. Like, if I want to go and play with her, like, I can go and play with her. But even being step back allowed me to be like, wow, okay, I'm. I can just do something for myself. And I feel like, needs those little breaks to feel more normal.
- [40:37]
A
Yeah, for sure. And, like, if you don't get those breaks, like, totally fine. There's ways to find to feel more normal. But, like, for me personally, that's what I found is like, get over me, like, the trust thing and, like, delegating my workload and just accept the help. And that completely changed motherhood for me, and I'm so thankful I did that. And obviously it takes a long time to trust somebody. I get it. And once you just do it, it's. It's life changing. It really is, like, just to find yourself and just, yeah. Feel more like yourself.
- [41:12]
B
Being like, parenthood is kind of similar to, like, even just being married to an NFL player because I feel like you have to, like, let go of, like, you don't have control all the time. So, like, when it comes to football, how did you deal with, like, losing control over, like, knowing that you don't have control over, like, trades or, like, playing time or, like, the city you guys live in or, like, what that looks like?
- [41:33]
A
Yeah. Well, this is something that I, like, really struggle with, especially as, like, a Christian. I mean, I have to, like, let go a lot more than I like, my. My palm is a close. Like, my hands a closed fist a lot. And so, like, that's me as a person, like, just trying to grow in that aspect of, like, I. In all aspects, I need to let go. And, like, there are things, like, I can't control. Like, sometimes I'm like, especially with three kids, like, the. The creepy thoughts that get in my head of like, oh, my gosh, like, this kid's sick. This one's gonna get sick. We're gonna be in the hospital for two weeks. Like, it's bad. Like, I have to just let go of that control. Like, especially with football. Like, I'm like, oh, he's not the starter. Oh, he's not this. And, like, none of that defines who we are as people. So, like, why does it matter? I don't know. Like, it doesn't. It doesn't matter. And I think that mindset and just kind of like, recently I've had, like, I don't know, like, a come to Jesus moment of, like, none of this stuff on earth we can take anywhere to us in heaven. This is me speaking as a Christian, obviously. If you're not, then, like, not you personally. I'm talking to the listeners. If you're not, then just, like, relate it in your own aspect to your own life. Like, no judgment here. But I personally, like, that's the one thing that gets me through all this. Is faith. And in, like, my come to Jesus moment of, like, realizing, oh, like, all of this is so temporary. Why do I want to have control over it? Why does it matter? It doesn't matter. And just kind of like, that mindset is so freeing in all of the aspects of football, motherhood, everything that I just have to keep reminding myself. It's so much easier said than done, you know what I mean? But, like, that is my way of coping with all that, honestly.
- [43:09]
B
Well. And that kind of leads me into my last question. Looking back on this past year, between the season and pregnancy and postpartum, what have you. What are you most proud of yourself for?
- [43:19]
A
Oh, gosh. Oh, it's hard for me to, like, be proud of myself, honestly. Sometimes I'm like, I need to, like,
- [43:25]
B
get myself three kids in two different cities and moving two places. And, like, you should be, but, like, you're sweet.
- [43:33]
A
What.
- [43:33]
B
What are you proud of yourself for? Give yourself some flowers.
- [43:38]
A
I'm proud of. I'm proud of my. I'm gonna just go back to mindset. I'm proud of my mindset because I feel like there's a lot of things that could have thrown me for a loop, like, social media wise, like, when Jared got his start and everything, and then the game obviously didn't go the way it's planned, and I could have, like, both of us could have just seeped into, like, a little dark hole if we really wanted to. But, like, I'm proud of, like, us being strong, steady oaks in the ground, built from where, like, from our bones up, and just not being swayed by anything, like, trying to pull us down. I feel like. And especially in, like, our marriage and our kids, like, the most proud thing that I am of my. Is my family, my. My marriage. Like, I feel like I hit the lottery. Like, I love my life. I love my kids. I love my. My husband. My husband's my best friend. You can relate on that. Like, don't know how to do that with him. Like, we said, we're both needy, but I think that's just a testament to show how amazing they are because we just want to be around them. Crazy concept. Like, crazy all the time. Crazy. When you marry the love of your life and you actually want to be with them, that's so wild. But, yeah. So that's kind of what I'm most proud of in this season of life is just football and motherhood and not being. Not being a little ship, being rocked by big waves and just being steady. Yeah.
- [45:00]
B
Yeah. What is the rest of this off season look like for you guys?
- [45:04]
A
Gosh. So we, we jam packed our march. So we're kind of chilling right now. So we had really crazy travels for the month of March and now we're just hanging. We've got birthdays coming up, Lennon's birthday. And then we have. We go to my parents lake house in the off season in the summer. And I love the little summer break because it's just a slice of heaven. I mean, if anyone follows me on Instagram, like, they know, like, I'm just like a breath of fresh air there.
- [45:35]
B
Like the mountain house.
- [45:37]
A
That's it? Yeah, that's the house.
- [45:38]
B
Is it done?
- [45:39]
A
Yes, it's completely done. It's amazing. You guys need to come out there if you. It'll be your like, what's it called? Whenever. Your redemption for like a isolated place. I'll make. I'll make it really good for you.
- [45:53]
B
Me and isolated places, I'm like, I
- [45:55]
A
don't think I actually love this one. There's a lake, there's a boat. Like, it's fantastic. So, so looking forward to that. And then, I mean, I feel like again, like I said, I'll blink and it'll be season again in July. So it's really it.
- [46:10]
B
I know. It's already the end of March. That's actually insane.
- [46:13]
A
No, that's crazy. It's scary to me. Like, I feel like time is so warped and it really makes me sad. I mean, I'm sure with like Scotty growing older, your new baby's about to be here and you're like, wait, where did the time go? And why is it flying by so fast? It's sad.
- [46:30]
B
No, life moves so quickly. And I feel like the NFL also, mate, like goes into that almost more is that it just makes like everything feel so, like, okay, now it's football season. Okay, now it's off.
- [46:41]
A
Yeah, it's like split in two. It's like off season in season. And like once one's over, you're like, oh my God, it's the next one. Okay, once this one begins, it's already the next one. Like, it's crazy. Crazy.
- [46:52]
B
Okay, well, before we end, I have some rapid fire questions for you. Like this or that.
- [46:57]
A
Okay, let's try getting me to be rapid fire.
- [47:00]
B
Home games are away games.
- [47:02]
A
Home for sure.
- [47:04]
B
Being pregnant during the season or off
- [47:06]
A
season, are these like, okay? Definitely. Actually okay. Being pregnant during the off season made it go by so fast. Being pregnant in season though, makes you feel like less like you're missing out on things. I don't know how to explain that, but, like, I felt like when I was pregnant in season, it, like, I had a baby, and then the next time I was like. Like, it made my pregnancy go by faster. But off season, you know what now? I don't know. I don't know.
- [47:33]
B
I don't know. You're, like, so versatile. You're like, whatever. I can do both.
- [47:37]
A
I'm, like, talking myself into both sides. I'm like, see, there's pros and cons. No, I could do either. But I did love being. I loved having a bump in summer because then I didn't really have to worry about a bikini bot. I really like that. And then now that I'm postpartum, I have time to, like, feel good in a bikini again before summer instead of popping out a baby in, like, March and April and being a bikini in July or June. Oh, my God. That was miserable.
- [48:02]
B
But you will not catch me in a bikini throughout this summer. Absolutely not.
- [48:06]
A
It's hard, girl. It's hard. But, hey, sometimes you just do it. Sometimes you're like, as soon as the more kids you have, the less you care. See, I told you it wasn't gonna be rabid.
- [48:14]
B
I tried sideline seats or sweet.
- [48:18]
A
I'm gonna say sweet because I do like having my kids there, and we do have a suite, so I love doing that.
- [48:23]
B
And you guys are in Denver. Like, if you guys were in.
- [48:25]
A
The weather's a little unpredictable. Did you watch the AFC championship game? So, yeah, I was very happy.
- [48:31]
B
I was in California. Game day. Glam or comfort?
- [48:37]
A
I like glam. I'm a glam gal. I love comfort, too. But, you know, I feel like you.
- [48:41]
B
You do both very effortlessly. Like, you make outfits look so, like, elevated, but I feel like you're comfortable still.
- [48:47]
A
Do you, like, talk to all your guests like this? I'm so honored. You're so sweet.
- [48:51]
B
Coaching your kids. Team or cheering from the sidelines?
- [48:54]
A
Oh, God, I have to cheer. If I coach, I'm gonna be the worst coach ever. Like, so you're gonna be a coach? Do what?
- [49:02]
B
Do you think Jarrett would be the coach? Like, like, Lennon's, like, team?
- [49:05]
A
He definitely is way more, like, nice in that way. I'm like, just like, if I'm a coach and especially soccer, I would be so, like, nitpicky. So I'm like, I know. I know the bad parts of myself. I'm. I'm self aware, so I will. I will never coach. I will always cheer, though. I'm a Biggest cheerleader of everybody. Yeah.
- [49:25]
B
Okay. You're like, that would just be too close. Like, I would have to micromanage everything.
- [49:30]
A
Yeah, maybe I'll try, but, like, I'll ends so.
- [49:33]
B
Exactly. Especially as, like, soccer. You're like, I know soccer. Like, I played in college. This is no. And then celebrating a win with a team or celebrating alone with the family.
- [49:44]
A
I like celebrating with the team. I feel like we celebrate a lot with the family. Like, I like the girl. Like, football is the fun part about football is your friends and celebrating with the teammates. And I love. Again, my husband's a backup quarterback, so I love cheering for everybody who's in front of him, with him, on the sideline with him, all of that. So it's more fun, like, when it's just team camaraderie. A win is a win for everybody, practice squad or not. Like, a win is a win. A win is a win.
- [50:08]
B
And then where can people find you on social media?
- [50:12]
A
I am mostly on Instagram, Kennedy stidham. I have YouTube. I love YouTube. Just my name, Kennedy Stum, and then I'm a doom scroller on tick tock and a silent supporter. So that's really it. I don't really have a tick tock, but I like to. Maybe one day I will, but it's still Kennedy Stummy.
- [50:30]
B
Love that for you. All right, well, thank you so much for coming on the podcast and enjoy the off season, the short off season you have.
- [50:38]
A
Oh, thanks. Love you.
- [50:40]
B
Yeah, love you. And then thank you guys for listening. Be sure to tune in every Sunday wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services.
- [50:51]
A
Individuals on the show may have a
- [50:53]
B
direct or indirect financial interest in products
- [50:56]
A
or services referred to in this episode.