The Kelce Brothers: From Distance to Connection Through “New Heights”
In the world of professional football, where the grind of training camps, games, and travel can often create distance between even the closest of families, the Kelce brothers—Jason and Travis—have experienced this firsthand. Before the launch of their popular podcast, “New Heights,” the two would sometimes go months without speaking. This revelation, shared by Jason Kelce in a recent interview with Bustle, highlights the challenges of maintaining familial bonds amidst the demands of an NFL career.
A New Chapter: The Birth of “New Heights”
The idea for “New Heights” emerged as a way to bridge the gap that had formed between the brothers due to their busy schedules and geographical separation. Jason, a former Philadelphia Eagles center, and Travis, a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, found themselves living in different cities and entrenched in their respective careers. The podcast, which debuted in September 2022, has become a platform not only for sharing insights about football but also for reconnecting on a personal level.
“The best part of the podcast is just getting to talk to Trav,” Jason expressed, emphasizing the importance of their weekly conversations. The show has become a ritual, a designated time for the brothers to catch up and share their lives, something that had become increasingly rare in the years leading up to its launch.
Rekindling Brotherhood
Jason reflected on the significance of the podcast in rekindling their relationship, stating, “We both have a lot going on in our lives, and it’s been fun—after all these years being in different cities and fighting to make it in the football landscape—to rekindle the amount of times that we talk and the closeness that we have growing up our entire lives.” This sentiment resonates deeply, as it underscores the importance of family ties, especially in a profession that often demands so much time and energy.
As the older brother, Jason has taken on a supportive role rather than a mentor. He prefers to cheer for Travis rather than offer unsolicited advice. “I try not to be too much of an advice person and more like a support person,” he explained. This approach allows Travis to navigate his own path while knowing that Jason is always in his corner, ready to lend an ear or share his thoughts when asked.
The Impact of Life Changes
The dynamics of their relationship have also evolved with significant life changes. Jason’s retirement from the NFL in March 2024 has given him more time to engage with Travis and support him in his career. This shift has allowed for a deeper connection, as Jason can now focus on being present for his brother during pivotal moments in his career, including high-stakes games like the Super Bowl.
The brothers’ relationship was put to the test during the 2025 Super Bowl, where the Kansas City Chiefs faced off against the Philadelphia Eagles. Jason found himself in a unique position, torn between supporting his brother and rooting for his former team. “That game was odd for me to watch if I’m being completely honest,” he admitted, revealing the emotional complexity of the situation.
Balancing Emotions in Competition
As the Eagles triumphed over the Chiefs with a score of 40-22, Jason expressed a mix of pride for his brother’s accomplishments and loyalty to his former teammates. “On one hand, I wanted what is best for my brother, and to see his success,” he shared. “And on the other hand, there are so many people, teammates, and coaches, in the Philadelphia Eagles organization that I care deeply about.” This duality of emotions is a testament to the strong bonds that exist in both family and team dynamics.
Despite the competitive nature of their careers, Jason emphasized that his love for Travis remains unwavering. “There isn’t a person that I love or care about more than Travis,” he stated, highlighting the depth of their brotherly bond. This love is evident in the way they support each other, both on and off the field.
The Journey Ahead
As the Kelce brothers continue to navigate their careers and personal lives, “New Heights” serves as a reminder of the importance of connection. Their journey from months of silence to weekly conversations has not only strengthened their relationship but has also provided fans with an inside look at the lives of two of the NFL’s most beloved players. The podcast has become a celebration of their bond, showcasing the joys and challenges of being brothers in the spotlight.
With Jason now retired and Travis still making waves in the NFL, the future holds exciting possibilities for both brothers. Their shared experiences, laughter, and candid discussions on “New Heights” will undoubtedly continue to resonate with audiences, reminding us all of the power of family and the importance of staying connected, no matter the distance.