Podcast Summary: Unlocked with Savannah Chrisley Episode: What It Was Like To Raise Julie Chrisley (feat. Nanny Pam)
Release Date: May 13, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of "Unlocked with Savannah Chrisley," host Savannah Chrisley sits down with Nanny Pam, her grandmother, to delve into the family’s upbringing and the challenges they've faced over the years. The conversation offers listeners an intimate look into Savannah's childhood, the dynamics within the Chrisley family, and the resilience they've shown in the face of adversity.

Early Family Life and Upbringing

Savannah and Nanny Pam reminisce about Savannah's childhood, sharing fond memories and anecdotes that highlight the close-knit nature of the Chrisley family.

• Finding Old Photos:
  Savannah: "It's crazy to look back to at all these. Isn't that insane?" (01:20)
  Nanny Pam: "I love looking at old pictures, though." (02:24)

• Nanny Pam’s Role:
  Nanny Pam explains her role in Savannah's early life, emphasizing how she took care of Savannah's mother, Julie, while Savannah's parents were working. This arrangement fostered a strong bond between Julie and Granny.

• Savannah’s Childhood Experiences:
  Savannah shares vivid memories from her time living in California, including pivotal moments like dealing with food poisoning and the unique experiences of growing up next to Wayne Gretzky's family.

Family Challenges and Resilience

The discussion shifts to more somber topics, including the challenges faced by the family and their unwavering support for one another.

• Julie’s Early Marriage and Pregnancy:
  Nanny Pam: "We were in love, Savannah, at 16." (04:05)
  Savannah: "But people are going to try to tell her story for." (19:56)
  Nanny Pam recounts Julie's early marriage at 17, her pregnancy during high school, and the family's decision to support her despite societal judgments. They touch upon the misinformation spread by tabloids and Nanny Pam’s refusal to be ashamed of past mistakes.

• Uncle Trey's Tragic Death and Father's Passing:
  Nanny Pam shares the devastating loss of Uncle Trey at the age of 25 and the subsequent passing of Savannah's grandfather shortly after.
  Savannah: "So obviously Uncle Trey passed away. I don't know how any parent gets." (44:20)
  Nanny Pam: "It was the second most heartbreaking thing in my life." (41:41)
  The emotional toll of these losses is evident as they discuss the lasting impact on the family.

• Mother’s Incarceration:
  The conversation tackles the difficult topic of Julie's imprisonment, exploring its effect on the family dynamics and Savannah's relationship with her mother.
  Nanny Pam: "It was like a loss. And it's like, you know, you're in prison too." (44:48)
  Savannah: "But mama has said, I live vicariously through you." (22:16)
  They express frustration with how the media portrayed Julie and the challenges of maintaining a relationship with a family member who is incarcerated.

Family Dynamics and Personal Reflections

Savannah and Nanny Pam delve into the intricacies of family relationships, highlighting both the joys and the tensions that have shaped their lives.

• Sibling Relationships:
  Savannah describes her relationship with her brother Chase, noting their closeness in childhood contrasted with teenage conflicts.
  Savannah: "As we got older, we fought like cats and dogs." (33:32)
  Nanny Pam: "You did not. When you were, like, he was one, you were two." (33:40)
  These reflections illustrate the natural evolution of sibling relationships over time.

• Influence of Parents:
  The impact of her parents' work ethic and dedication is a recurring theme, with Savannah praising how they built a stable and educated environment despite personal setbacks.
  Savannah: "Mom and dad hustled, they worked. They built a gorgeous life for us." (37:09)
  Nanny Pam: "They never would [feel financial struggles]." (39:43)
  This segment underscores the family's ability to maintain normalcy and prioritize education and community involvement.

• Generational Differences:
  Discussion about how family interactions have changed over generations, particularly concerning communication and technology.
  Nanny Pam: "You can never get together with your family now that they're on their phones." (36:31)
  This highlights the contrast between past and present family dynamics.

Coping with Loss and Moving Forward

The episode concludes with reflections on coping mechanisms, faith, and the importance of family unity in overcoming tragedies.

• Faith and Support Systems:
  Nanny Pam: "Through my faith in God and Him, I know being by my side through all of this is the only way I have stayed sane." (50:37)
  She emphasizes the role of prayer, the Bible, and supportive friendships in finding strength during difficult times.

• Future Outlook:
  Savannah expresses a desire for the family to come together and address past issues through therapy to heal and move forward.
  Savannah: "If we're gonna actually all come back together, there needs to be an intensive week-long therapy." (53:36)
  Nanny Pam: "We have to, as a family, pull together, forgive, and try to move forward." (50:37)
  This sentiment reflects a hopeful outlook toward reconciliation and healing.

• Legacy and Influence:
  Nanny Pam reflects on her influence on Savannah and the importance of leading by example.
  Nanny Pam: "I just feel like it's all going to work out." (55:25)
  Savannah acknowledges Nanny Pam's positive impact while expressing her own desires for strong family bonds.

Notable Quotes

• Nanny Pam: "We were in love, Savannah, at 16." (04:05)
• Savannah: "I didn't know it was that long." (21:07)
• Nanny Pam: "It was like a loss. And it's like, you know, you're in prison too." (44:48)
• Savannah: "If we're gonna actually all come back together, there needs to be an intensive week-long therapy." (53:36)
• Nanny Pam: "Through my faith in God and Him, I know being by my side through all of this is the only way I have stayed sane." (50:37)

Conclusion

This episode of "Unlocked with Savannah Chrisley" offers a profound exploration of family, loss, resilience, and the complexities of maintaining relationships amidst public scrutiny and personal tragedies. Through honest conversations and shared memories, Savannah and Nanny Pam provide listeners with an authentic glimpse into the challenges and strengths that define the Chrisley family narrative.