Call Her Daddy
Call Her Daddy
"We're on Music Row." — Alex Cooper
"My therapist says there are seasons, reasons and lifers. And that's in every kind of relationship. And it is okay and it is necessary to have relationships that are all three seasons, reasons and lifers. And like, let it be what it's meant to be." — Kelsea Ballerini
"If I was insecure about that, that says way more about my insecurity with myself and my relationship than it does anything." — Alex Cooper
The episode features a candid conversation between Alex Cooper and Kelsea Ballerini, hosted at Ballerini's Nashville home. They begin by discussing Ballerini's charming cottage, its history, and how it became her sanctuary during significant life transitions. Cooper and Ballerini share relatable experiences of navigating life's challenges, including past relationships and career aspirations. They touch upon Ballerini's early life, her journey to Nashville at 15 to pursue music, and her reflections on her upbringing and college experiences, including a daring act of rebellion. The conversation delves into Ballerini's professional path, highlighting her independent label journey and the significance of "Music Row," where she experienced key career moments, including the inspiration for her song "Pint House."
The dialogue shifts to discussing significant life achievements, such as SNL appearances and Time 100 recognition, prompting a discussion on recognizing and celebrating personal wins. They explore the societal pressures women face regarding success and self-promotion, emphasizing the importance of self-pride. The podcast takes a turn into a drive around Nashville, passing by significant landmarks like Ballerini's record label and her first apartment, offering a tangible representation of her journey. They also address Ballerini's powerful stance at the CMT Awards, her decision to include drag queens in her performance, and the subsequent backlash, framing it as an act of allyship and a learning experience. The conversation touches on the importance of maintaining normalcy amidst fame and the strategies for staying mentally well, including intensive therapy.
The latter half of the episode focuses on relationships and personal happiness. Ballerini shares her evolving perspective on sex and intimacy, emphasizing its role as a connector within a healthy relationship and her enjoyment of the experience. They discuss her current relationship with Chase Stokes, the serendipitous nature of their meeting, and the deep emotional connection they share, including matching tattoos. The podcast also addresses the public's fascination with their relationship and how they navigate external narratives, particularly regarding Stokes' ex-girlfriend. The episode concludes with advice on leaving toxic relationships, emphasizing self-worth and the courage to embrace new beginnings, and a shared sentiment that growing older is empowering and that self-knowledge enhances attractiveness. The conversation is punctuated by moments of laughter, shared vulnerability, and mutual admiration, culminating in a lighthearted karaoke session.