Kelly Clarkson Discusses Co-Parenting Struggles on Kylie Kelce’s Podcast

LOS ANGELES, CA — Kelly Clarkson opened up about her co-parenting journey during a recent episode of Kylie Kelce‘s podcast, discussing the complexities and challenges of working motherhood. The episode, which aired on March 27, 2025, featured candid conversations about the pressures that come with balancing her career and parenting responsibilities.

Clarkson, who shares two children with ex-husband Brandon Blackstock, expressed feelings of guilt as she navigates her work schedule. ‘It’s like, “Oh, he couldn’t come because this,” and I’m like, “Okay, cool. Do you think I just leave and sit in the park all day?”‘ Clarkson said. These comments reflect a broader societal issue regarding the double standards faced by working mothers compared to their male counterparts.

She continued, ‘There’s a lot that I keep in because co-parenting is fun,’ adding a touch of humor to her observations. Her comments resonated with many working parents who encounter similar dilemmas, especially when school events often conflict with work obligations.

Clarkson, a mother of 10-year-old daughter River and 8-year-old son Remington, became a parent in June 2014 shortly after marrying Blackstock. The couple divorced in 2020, leading to a public and often contentious separation.

Reflecting on her experiences as a mother and a public figure, Clarkson stated in a previous interview, ‘The most important thing I’ve learned in therapy, especially through this divorce, is “Don’t hide everything from your kids.”‘ She emphasized the importance of allowing children to see their parents express emotions.

In the podcast, Clarkson also highlighted the unfair judgment mothers often face for missing significant moments due to work commitments. ‘It’s funny though how different it is because even from a young age, like we didn’t teach them [that]. Just innately, you’re like, “He’s allowed to be somewhere, but you’re not.” Like, that is real interesting,’ she remarked.

The singer also addressed her struggles with the timing of school events. ‘Why do schools have things in the middle of the f–king day?’ Clarkson pondered, acknowledging that such scheduling creates additional stress for working parents. ‘I get to be the asshole because you decided that it would be a real opportune moment at 10 a.m. on a Thursday,’ she lamented.

Kylie Kelce, also a mother, agreed, sharing her own challenges balancing parenting and her career. Clarkson’s humorous approach to disclosing her parenting experience offers a relatable perspective to many listeners navigating similar situations.

Despite the challenges, Clarkson encourages parents to embrace the journey of motherhood. ‘You are going to be inspired to do all of these magical things with your kids. It is such an awesome experience being a parent,’ she stated during a virtual event in June 2020 designed for new and expectant mothers.

In closing, Clarkson suggested that all mothers, whether stay-at-home or working, deserve to ease their self-imposed pressures. ‘Let yourself off the hook. You are still getting it done; it’s just working through time management as a new mom,’ she advised. With her humor and openness, Clarkson continues to inspire other parents as they navigate the often-challenging road of co-parenting.