Family, Football, and Fatherhood: Highlights from the New Heights Podcast Father’s Day Special with Ed Kelce

Introduction

When it comes to family, few trios do it better—or funnier—than Travis Kelce, Jason Kelce, and their father, Ed Kelce. On their hit podcast, New Heights, the NFL brothers are known for their candid banter, sports insights, and hilarious stories. In their special Father’s Day episode, they invited their dad to join in, delivering laughs, life lessons, and a multi-generational take on parenting, pop culture, and the unwritten rules of growing up Kelce.

No “Birds and Bees” Talk Required

It’s almost a rite of passage: that awkward parent-child conversation about sex, dating, and relationships. But as Travis and Jason revealed—and Ed confirmed—the Kelce family skipped the classic “birds and bees” talk altogether. Instead, their crash course in romance came courtesy of health class at Cleveland Heights Public Schools—and Ed’s simple, timeless advice: “Just be her friend. Be cool with her.”

This easy-going approach is emblematic of Ed’s overall parenting philosophy: empower kids to figure things out on their own, be supportive but not overbearing, and maybe, just maybe, eavesdrop a little when they’re on the phone with girls.

Life, Sports, and Unwritten Rules

The Kelce household operated less on a set of written rules and more on principles picked up along the way—like being home before the streetlights came on, respecting elders, and never punching your brother in the face. Ed was big on teaching by example: hustle matters more than talent, respect for teachers and coaches is non-negotiable, and the “golden rule” always applies.

But perhaps the best lesson was learning to roll with the punches—literally and figuratively. Whether it was Ed breaking his ribs to protect his boys in a sledding accident, or Travis accidentally filling a shampoo bottle with lotion (causing a mini family meltdown), the prevailing attitude was to laugh, learn, and move on.

Fatherhood Then and Now

One major point of reflection in the episode was how fatherhood evolves. Ed described parenting young kids as “a lot of work” and “constant worry”—about grades, friendships, and day-to-day behavior. But now, with his sons grown and successful, he finds it more “relaxing and fun,” with less to fret over and more to enjoy—testament to the idea that parenting, while never truly over, does get easier with time.

Jason chimed in with appreciation for parental holidays, emphasizing that both Father’s Day and Mother’s Day matter because “raising children in this world should absolutely be celebrated.” In true Kelce style, they compared American and German Father’s Day traditions—with Ed giving a thumbs-up to the German practice of dads being sent off with beer and sausages to wander the woods.

Tattoo Bets and Fan Culture

Amid recaps of sports and family lore, the episode didn’t miss out on highlighting their passionate fanbase. The story of an Eagles-Giants rivalry bet that resulted in a listener tattooing “Pinup Jason” (a humorous tattoo of Jason Kelsey in a pinup pose) sparked raucous laughter and teasing. Ed’s verdict? “Provocative. Cringeworthy.” But everyone agreed the wager proved the power of keeping your word—and the unique loyalty of the New Heights audience.

Choosing a Classic Movie for the New Heights Film Club

A recurring bit on the podcast is the “Film Club,” where listeners help the Kelce brothers decide which classic films to revisit and review. This episode saw plenty of back-and-forth about which genres and titles to consider—from 90s blockbusters to cult favorites like Pretty Woman and Wild Wild West. The ultimate criteria? It has to be something neither brother has actually seen, or at least hasn’t seen since childhood, leading to plenty of laughs and nostalgia—and more fan engagement as listeners are encouraged to submit their top picks.

Fatherly Advice, Rational and Otherwise

Listeners called in with questions about unwritten rules, irrational “dad anger,” and the best and worst advice Ed ever gave. Highlights included Ed’s rational (but fiery) response to a prank involving lotion and shampoo, and tales of family discipline delivered via a signature bellowed “YO!”—which, according to Jason, could silence a whole crowd. Their “dad-isms,” from “there’s no ‘I’ in team” to “you’re never as good or as bad as they say,” were all delivered with warmth and wit, making it clear why Ed Kelce remains a fan favorite.

Pop Culture and Parenting Styles

When asked which fictional TV dad most resembled Ed, the consensus landed somewhere between Al Bundy’s rough-around-the-edges sarcasm and the nurturing, if outdated, wisdom of 90s sitcom fathers. The blend of humor and heart—always authentic, occasionally irreverent—is what endears the Kelces to listeners beyond sports.

The Heart of New Heights: Family First

What makes New Heights resonate—especially in the Father’s Day episode—is the genuine affection, open vulnerability, and shared humor between three strong, distinct personalities. The episode captured the universal truths of fatherhood: the awkwardness, the silent support, the importance of letting kids be themselves, and the joy of seeing them grow into people you’re proud to know—not just as a father, but as a friend.

Conclusion

As fans look forward to more hilarious and heartwarming episodes—and maybe even more appearances from “Papa Kelce”—one thing remains clear: Family is at the heart of New Heights. Whether you’re a diehard NFL fan or just in it for the laughs, the Kelces’ brand of real talk, gentle ribbing, and steady support is a winning formula, both on and off the field.

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