Big Ben talks Footbahlin hiatus, 2024 Steelers preseason and more EP. 48

[@PortersTakeOn]

As a father who just got home from the hospital, with my second child to have open heart surgery….the convo at the start of this podcast, hits hard. I appreciate you guys. Spence, continued prayers for your daughter.

[@lisalmb]

Praying for only the best for your sweet child and your family!!! 🙏

[@channelseven5224]

Praying for your family!

[@GeorgeVuckovich3]

Praying for you!

[@PortersTakeOn]

I appreciate it! My lil guy is on the mend, it’s amazing to see how hard babies fight. Also Spence hit on it, but it’s something I have been telling family and friends, despite the situation we found ourselves in 2x, it’s still amazing to see God’s Graces throughout the anxiety ridden experience. VSD (hole in the heart) is truly part of the story of my family now, and seeing how my wife uses her gifts, to help others has been inspiring. So to anyone going through their own storms, know we will be praying for you. I’d also love to comment on what Spence said about the hospital staff. These people are amazing. You may spend 4 days, 2 months, 10 months in a children’s hospital, but these staff members are there with you all through it, and they are just…truly doing the Lords work. Anyone looking for prayers list em, and I’ll happily do so!

[@dgregory4178]

@PortersTakeOn Prayers for your child, you and your family as well as Spence's situation. The Lord cares for his children and NOTHING is too hard for Him.

[@WVron247_steelersstud1]

Ben please don't stop this podcast,your die hard fans like myself are already feeling like something missing in our life... that's YOU Sir..after 20 years of Big7Ben with Steelers..it was like a family member was taken from US..this is our only means of seeing you and knowing how your doing?..so please keep it up Ben..thank you so much and have a blessed day ben

[@chazrunyan409]

Didn’t expect to cry when I clicked on here.

[@tomadams6178]

MAN. I needed this from Spence.. my son was born with a hole in heart and a horseshoe kidney.. he’s great now at almost 2 but the worry and depression and already having a son with autism was a lot. Thank y’all. Love.

[@SirCalvinDavis]

When Spence talked about being strong for the family and Ben giving him a hug…and breaking. That hit so deep. Men don’t get enough support but if we can just have 1, that’ll “stand you back up,” that’s a beautiful gift. I’m pouring tears listening to this podcast and appreciate you guys sharing this experience 🥲 Happy 7 months to your blessing Spence❤

[@NB-ski]

As a father, I can’t imagine what you all went through. I’m so happy your daughter is healthy. Sitting here on my couch all teary eyed. We will be praying for you and your family Spencer .

[@PetersPasta]

The boys are back! Excited to tune in again!

[@klusterfuk6793]

It’s not a Steelers seasons without Big Ben 🖤💛 and honestly if this show didn’t happen because of some personal stuff it was still great we even had the show! To take the time and energy to entertain us me and most are more than happy for you guys! 💛🖤

[@Zgrandle787]

Spence, I’m praying for you…. As a father who lost his daughter in the Nicu at 24 weeks after 2 days, I understand to some degree what you were feeling and going through in this situation. But I’m so proud of you in standing strong in your faith! And I’m so happy she’s okay and healthy. God is so good. I’m happy you guys are back!!!

[@Suzyb7806]

My niece was born with problems. Never felt the power of prayer so strongly. We literally had friends and family around the world praying for her. She still has a lot of problems but will be 25 in December.

[@jimrockfordsmessagemachine7446]

I was born a mile from the hospital that saved my life. Listening to your story, Spence, gave me insight on what my parents must have gone through. Thank you. The hospital that saved my life was Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh, and they were the only hospital in the USA at that time that had the equipment to save my life. This all happened back in 1961. Sixty Three years later you and Ben made me thank God once more for the miracle that saved your daughter's life. Nothing more needs to be said.

[@Kaiokenx4_]

As Ben said, you guys owe the watchers and fans of the show no updates, your lives are the number one priority and though we know how incredible Spence is, always thinking about the fans, you were going through so much and your family was the most important thing in the world for you. God bless your daughter, my family will be praying for you guys and that special little girl. We love you guys!

[@justinmerwarth8682]

Ben, you have been a hero on and off the field for over half my life. All men have trials, and Spence, the strength you showed to share... praise God for BIG SPENCE.

[@anonplzzzzzz]

Spence. I'm so sorry you had to go through all of that. I am the father of two girls, one of which will be 7 months soon. She was born here in Pittsburgh during the last Superbowl. We went through something very similar with all the pre-screening they do. We kept getting back repeated low fetal fraction results, which each time was an escalation that something was wrong. We went through multiple specialists and full genetic testings just to get zero answers. I understand what that depression feels like knowing that your child's life is out of your control, but at the same time having to be strong for the rest of your family. It's great you had Ben and everyone around you throughout that dark time for you. At the end of all that worry and doubt and darkness, our baby was born healthy. We gave her the middle name "Love" to be a reminder that Christ is love. Teared me up hearing you speak about the journey your little girl had to go through. I'm so happy to hear she is doing well now. She is truly a fighter. I will definitely keep you and yours in my prayers. God bless. As for the pod, I look forward to all the content this channel posts. I love this pod. I have a cookbook. But family comes first always. Don't worry about us!

[@sandyaw3057]

I am so sorry! Family always comes before us! I’m praying your baby is okay 🙏🙏

[@michaelmillhoff4639]

Prayers to your Daughter Spence! 🙏🏻 So happy you guys decided to come back and do the show! Love watching the podcast! 🏈💪🏻

[@johnnyGoosePGH]

Spence-we’ll keep you and your family in our prayer intentions. Children’s hospital of Pgh saved my life in 1990. I’m here today, married with five kids, because of countless prayers and the good people at that hospital. Our 2 y/o son’s life was also saved by the docs at Children’s. Our gratitude is immeasurable. Glory to Jesus Christ!

[@TrippyHippie126]

I dont think prayers had anythign to do with it

[@susanbrown3717]

Thank you Ben and Ash for loving Spence and his family and mostly for loving Jesus and using your platform for sharing the love of Christ with others.

[@enriquelara5137]

Man the beginning legit brought me to tears… I could hear the pain in Spence’s voice recounting his story. The power of prayer is real. God has a plan for that little baby.

[@gibbysmusic1587]

I haven't been to church as often as I should lately. I'm so sorry you went through this,Spence. I've had my ups and downs with depression, and it helps to hear as a dad, that I'm not alone. I am so thankful for your message today as it got me praying, initially about your family, but also more and more after that. It was one of the best connections with God I've had in a while. Keep being you, and I'll always support

[@lisachiono6177]

This is a episode that should be spread acrossed every social media by everyone. This is the most heart felt real podcast i every watch by men. SPENCE i hope 🙏 and 🙏 things continue to get better everyday for u. All of you.

[@luismena4610]

As a husband, father of an amazing 2 year old girl, healthcare professional and life long Steelers fan, I couldn’t appreciate this episode any more, I pray for the continued health of your babygirl and family and thank you for sharing this, I feel as if things like this are tailored for dads that need help from other dads and all these dynamics definitely helped me.

[@charleneevans5848]

so true ben,just being there for someone,giving hugs and praying is all that's needed

[@Midnight_Murph]

Please continue to talk about the real shit we go through. That was awesome to gain perspective. Thanks for being so open.

[@ChrisB7102]

Amen 🙏

[@jasonsimpson4168]

Spence…thoughts and prayers for you and your family! Glad you guys decided to come back!

[@hjumper]

During the off season I have given my life to Christ, I have read the bible cover to cover, and i am involved in my local church 5 days a week. PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!

[@melvinschrock1998]

That is incredible PTL

[@B-Mac1424]

Me too & my life has improved exponentially since I’ve given myself to Christ. It’s truly incredible.

[@tamaradetillo2932]

Thank you for sharing! Prayers for all of you and your families. Ben thank you for continuing your podcast adding Jerrad bringing in faith. God has given you this platform to bring more people to Jesus!!!

[@samuellepley4217]

Spence! That statement is profound! “ The grace to endure or the comfort in our loss” I admire your faith! Thank you for saying that!

[@joannejenkins8034]

That statement hit me hard.

[@AustinBurke]

We are so back baby, let’s go!!! Spence you have my (and the fam’s) prayers. We just had our first daughter… Nothing else matters to that level at that point. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@edwardkrott2394]

My thoughts and prayers for your family Spence!!!Its incredible too see the love and support from your community and from friends.

[@joanfrench7393]

Wow!!! So glad that y'all are back!!! Yay!! Steelers are not the same without our Big Ben!!!

[@DennyHennessy]

This is what I love about this podcast…it is just real! The power of prayer! So many incredible miracles happening all around us from prayer…as our Mother Mary told the 3 peasant children in Fatima - Pray…pray…pray…

[@timothygunter3057]

Thank you so much for sharing your miracle! I am a Pastor of a small church in West Virginia and it is such a blessing to preach the Word of God and that little one preached a message better than I ever will. God is great, and is is so true that he is great no matter what the outcome because his will is perfect. We will be praying for your daughter, and for you Spence and your wife as well. Praying for Ben and his wife Ashley as well. God Bless you all! I do like football but I cannot love anyone or anything more than my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the gift of Salvation!

[@fenderman0202]

Dadvocate - next book title!!! 41:56 Prayers Spence. I hope you see these comments and realize how powerful your message is. Kudus to your friendship and having your faith to help you through this. Incredible.

[@katrinaleith9378]

Our hearts are with you Spence, such a hard thing to go through! But we’re happy you’re back and baby girl is thriving! What an amazing miracle! Can’t wait for some more episodes. We missed you guys!

[@Undisputed510]

You guys got me. Didnt know I was gonna be tearing up on a Monday afternoon. GOD is GREAT! Thank you guys for putting in perspective what really matters. Glad to hear ur daughter is thriving and healthy.

[@DADBOSS123]

Praise our Living God! So thankful for yinzer’s boldness, humility, and love for one another. Prayed and will continue to pray for your little one, for mamma and you Spence. Love y’all in the Lord! -GO STEELERS!

[@BobbyDillon-ug5te]

As a new dad myself, I can't even imagine what that experience must have been like. Kudos for keeping your faith through all of those heart wrenching moments Spence. It's inspiring. God bless you all!

[@jackiegerring2098]

Spence you had me in tears. God bless your family and your precious little girl. God is good and I hope you are reminded of his goodness when you hold your precious baby girl.

[@donspence2110]

Thank you for the inspiration on bringing GOD back into the lives of many people who watch this podcast. WE all NEED GOD in our lives on a regular basis. Ben you are truly your partners best friend and Spence, I will be praying for your daughter recovery. God Bless the both of you.

[@anitadoddroe5245]

OMG, what a great episode!! I'm so glad you're back! Thank you, Spence, for sharing your story! We serve an awesome God! Continued prayers for your daughter!😊🙏♥️

[@mattwilcox4513]

Glad you guys didn't quit doing the show but more importantly I'm glad your little girl is progressing along. Y'all had me tearing up at work listening to your story. Keep up the good work and keep your faith. God will guide you through whatever comes in your path.

[@graysontheginger]

I'm so glad the boys are back! Ben is my favorite QB, I'm 28 and watched his whole career start to finish. Having this show makes being a Steelers fan even more fun than it already is.

[@Dhldakram5]

Glad you guys are back, Spencer, god is real, there was a situation my life where he proved it to me! I will pray for your family! I have been married for 23 yrs and have 3 beautiful kids of my own. There is nothing more important than family! Thanks for a great show!

[@glenosei3351]

I appreciate Spence sharing this man.. I couldn't imagine what they went through. 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿 Thank God

[@t.breeze8659]

I haven't finished the episode yet but prayers to Spence and his family. I can't imagine what you and your wife have been working through. Thank you for the conversation about carrying stress and being okay expressing sadness and hurt as men. I'm glad you have a great inner circle of family and friends to help hold you up. As men, we don't do vulnerable well. As men, it seems like the world has difficulty showing us empathy. I wasn't expecting this when I saw the Channel 7 ep had dropped.

[@GeorgeVuckovich3]

This episode is what faith is about. What a moving story, Spence. I’m so sorry you guys went through this but what a tremendous display of God’s love, power and grace. Praying that God opens whatever doors He has ahead for your testimony to hit the right people are the right time. Thank you for sharing this story with us and showing what men of God should look like.

[@John-cz8cx]

Prayers to your family Spence! Praise God for His faithfulness and continued prayers for your daughter’s health and family’s endurance. Back in November, we got the news at our 20 week that something was wrong with our daughter’s heart that will require multiple surgeries. Through prayer and faith, we have been blessed to have had many things go better than anticipated, but still require surgery this year and some down the road. God’s faithfulness has been ever present in our lives through this but yeah that worry has been very difficult to walk through. Thank you for sharing your perspective as a father.

[@ajyatyas]

As a new Christian, attending Bible college and really putting in the works. This was really refreshing to hear and see how mature Christians work through things. I’m not even halfway through the podcast. I love this podcast. Best one you’ve guys have done yet. And they’ve had some great people on here. Lifelong Steelers fan here. I love you guys. You give me hope and faith.

[@patriciacastaneda6768]

I'm glad hoy are back!!! Thanks!!! Sorry to hear about your daughter Spence, my prayers for her and your family. Love from México 🇲🇽🇲🇽🇲🇽🇲🇽💛🖤💛🖤💛

[@susanpeebles4672]

Prayers of strength to you Spence. My little nephew was saved and taken care of (leukemia) at children's Hospital. Tremendous care,great staff. Glad yinz are back!!

[@nathanstrahan4040]

You are a great man Spence, for every decision you made, with the help of your wife and village. I’m proud of you, and we all are proud of you. Keep your head up, and continue moving strong

[@meat094]

Thank you, guys, so much for sharing this with us and continuing the podcast. As a father of a son who was treated at Children's Hospital for Leukemia, I share all your feelings; including the couches. As a pastor, thank you for sharing your faith, and giving a Christian some rare, wholesome entertainment. As a Steelers fan, thank you for guiding us through the season and sharing your player and former player friends with us. Thank you for giving us your hard work and time. You're giving us so much more than you know.

[@nicholastoscano8986]

Prayers for your daughter spence. I'm glad she is doing much better. As a father of 2, I couldn't imagine what you and your family went through.

[@joegreig7470]

Faith is a beautiful thing once you understand what it is. A beautiful story. My Mom and Dad went through this when they lost my sister in 1969 a few days after her birth. My Dad was gutted beyond repair, it affected him for the rest of his life. How my Mom was able to endure is beyond my understanding. Listening to Spence, helped me understand a bit more. Thank you for being open.

[@tjcougarfootball1]

Bless you, Spence. My first daughter was diagnosed with Down Syndrome after birth. With support, great services, and a village. She is a perfectly, healthy, and beautiful 5 year old and just started kindergarten!

[@troywoods1286]

Wow I didn't expect that beginning fellas much healing power to your daughter and thanks for telling the story it means ALOT ❤🙏

[@Flightofthearrowoutdoors]

Thanks for opening up Spence, praying for you and the family, as a Dad I can only imagine what you went through…didn’t even need to hear about the Steelers after that testimony, God Bless Welcome to the podcast Jerrad.

[@Bluemarlinx8]

ight, 1 last pause moment to say this, yall got me in tears. my son is 18 months old and we go this week for an anatomy scan for the child my wife is carrying. This is so moving that all these people came out to pray. GOD IS GOOD

[@TomKimmel-y5d]

Spence, I hung on every word. What a journey. Thank you for sharing.

[@HeilwoodBeagles]

I don't get emotional too often but this got to me.

[@jtfike]

This was so powerful. Thank you for sharing. I know that wasn't easy, but it glorifies God and I am so proud of you for it!

[@micthequick19]

Thank You Spencer, Big Ben, and Jerred for sharing this story. Thank you for your guys continued faithfulness in our Lord Jesus Christ! I am so happy your daughter is able to be home and with you and your wife and other child Spencer. Remember God is good, always, and had your daughter in his loving hands before you knew her. Psalm 139, 13-14. God Bless you guys and thanks again for sharing this vulnerable but rooted in reality situation. As Always Go STEELERS! Lets go win a Super Bowl for Spencers Daughter!

[@sweetrainissues1550]

Spence from my family in Ohio we are praying for you and your family. I work for a Children's Hospital and it is the best hospital ever. Every day i get to see miracles on the littles angels. God has us all !. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. Welcome Back Guys !!!!

[@brandonthompson7075]

After listening to this, it really hit a story of my life. 22 weeks my boy was born. Rushed to the hospital, my fiancé life flighted an hour away. Me driving going 105mph to make sure I’m there for my baby and finance’. My baby was born and beautiful. There was so many surgeons and doctors doing so many things days on end in the NICU. This was all during COVID and no one was allowed in the hospital besides me and my fiancé. After 7 days we had to say our goodbye. A stage 3 brain bleed was just not a life we wanted for our son. We had to let him go in our arms. It was the worst thing I can possibly imagine for anyone. Thank you for this. Truly bless you and your family. Lifetime Steelers fan. Proud of your choice. Faith,Family,Football.

[@nickjackman3826]

100% didn't expect to be crying today but super happy everything ended up okay Spence❤

[@crowe1974]

The power of prayer is an amazing thing. I will have you and your family in my prayers every night. God bless...

[@andrewtoomey93]

Men sometimes need to express their emotions through tears and receive a comforting hug. The mental struggles we encounter are frequently overlooked. I am pleased to learn that your daughter is on the path to recovery, Spence, and that you have someone like Ben to offer support.

[@codyc9784]

Thank you so very much for coming back!! I absolutely LOVE ur show and I’m so happy to be able to STILL be able to enjoy Ben’s perspective!! STEELERS NATION definitely misses 7!!! Glad ur back guys!! 🖤💛🖤💛

[@davidferrand878]

Dad of a brain cancer survivor here...Spence I feel for you brother! My daughter is now 17, still has her problems, but thriving in her own way. Keep on keeping on, it will get better!

[@jacobcogar870]

Praising god in the midst of your testimony. Spence your strength man. Proud of you

[@MakinItWetWells]

I know I’ve commented already but as this goes on, ALWAYS TRUST YOUR GUT! Definitely with medical professionals. Some truly do the job in children’s hospitals to help and for the love of life and some unfortunately just collect a check. I ran into the same people. My daughter just turned 8 months today and had health problems from birth and the delivery hospital wouldn’t listen and sent us home. Her first month she had more stays than home time. Finally found a specialist and got her what she needed. Shoutout Nationwide ❤

[@DouglasCannon-f6y]

27:45 Glad your daughter is healthy Spence. No shame in wondering what is next. Next Sunday at North Park is a memorial walk for pregnancy and infant loss. Sponsored by a fantastic organization called Emma’s footprints who help parents who unfortunately had to go through that what is next. I’m very glad Spence doesn’t need that resource but hope my comment help someone who may need this resource. Emma’s footprints has been a great resource that was found after the loss of my niece Lilah ❤

[@heykennarae]

We love you, Spence, and we're all behind you. Thank you for sharing. 🙏❤

[@chuckduttry]

So great to see all of you again, and heart broken but thanking God for Spence’s last 7 months. Hug your daughters tight every day. My brother and sister just lost their 7 year old daughter last week at PGH Children’s. Horrific tragedy, and this hit so close to home. Thankful you all got those miracles, and thank you for giving us hope and a distraction.

[@Theresa71]

Ben you and Ash sound like people I would like to know. What a great friend you are to Spence and we thank you for sharing this. God bless you and your wife❤️🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@davepheilshifter2418]

Such an inspiring story of faith, love, family, and true friendships. Thank you for sharing your story Spence, I felt your pain for your daughter and it brought tears. God bless you, your family, and of course my favorite 7 Big Ben a blessed warrior on the field and off. Shout out to your friend Micah who bears the name of the great prophet that God has been guiding me toward of late.

[@steelcity1101]

Glad to have you back Spence! Family first always.. continued prayers for your daughter & rest of your family💛

[@ThunderTrev]

My daughter was born premature at 28 weeks with a lot of complications and it was by far the scariest time of my life. I related so much to this episode and am so happy you experienced the same miracle as I in getting discharged from that NICU with your little girl! Mine is soon to be 4 years old now and is going strong. God is great! Praying for her and you, and your family through this continued journey!

[@Noneforsale]

Man i was just thinking about yall. Ben and spence hope you guys are doing amazing.

[@tazz41242]

Super excited you guys are back I’m so happy to hear Spence daughter pulled through with the grace of god he is so amazing and through him anything is truly possible love the content ❤

[@fredwisener5417]

What a testimony. Thank you for sharing, Spence. Praying for you and your family ❤

[@idpguruffs]

Welcome back and welcome to the family Jerrad! Haven't got that far in the video yet but prayers for Spences' daughter and all of you.

[@johnmccarty8407]

The power of prayer. Glad you guys are back. Here we go Steelers!

[@sawdizzle]

Was not prepared to spend my afternoon at my desk teary-eyed. As someone who's second child was born 9 weeks early, and lived in the NICU for the first 45 days of her life I can sympathize with this whole heartedly. Much love boys. Welcome back!

[@gregorywaller4899]

Spence and Ben thank you for taking on your show to give this awesome testimony. God is still working miracles. I loved what you said about the complications that you daughter have to deal with right now this is what a miracle sometimes look like. Guys keep up the great work. Prayers with you guys as you continue your journey with your miracle daughter.

[@JFlanigan-cr6ps]

As a father who spent 6 weeks in the hospital with my youngest daughter who was premature, I felt every thing that was described in your incredible story and testament. Thank you for sharing. But it took me right back to my experience and my personal journey with God and how amazing He truly is. Thank you for sharing such a touching &personal testimony of faith, & love. God is good all the time.

[@jaredgreen502]

I'm glad to see you all back. When training camp started & preseason games went on & didn't see you guys, I felt like you all were done. Prayers with you & your family Spence. This is huge for you to share.

[@levismith3325]

I'm feeling all of this with you, Spence! We had complications with my son when he was born, not nearly as severe as your situation, but it brought me to my knees and had me praying like I had never prayed before. Stay strong in Faith, brother!

[@kathyalvarez4892]

My great nephew Holden is in Children’s Hospital Pittsburgh. 19 months old…diagnosed with AML….So, it’s comforting to hear y’all’s complete respect & faith you have for the facility, nurses…& doctors…God Bless you all & your families 🙏

[@miroreynoso2035]

The fact that you guys don’t release content during the offseason only makes me anticipate your podcast episodes even more!

[@elizabethstricker8341]

My favorite episode by far. Spence, add me as someone praying for you and your family. God bless you all. Ben, thanks for showing your true self. Love watching you grow as a man and as a Christian. Welcome to Jerrad! And welcome back Footbahlin!!!! I've missed you!!!

[@coreygillum12]

I'm a grown man of 54. I was Ballin. GOD IS GREAT. Hang in there Spenc.

[@kylecherpak4306]

As a young father myself, I can feel Spence’s pain. My son was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot shortly into the birth, and will need heart surgery here very soon, once he’s around 6 months old. News like that is never EVER easy to hear. Best wishes, and prayers being sent your way Spence!❤

[@lindaangus2307]

Welcome back guys! Spence, thanks for sharing your story. Prayers work. So glad your baby is thriving. 🙏 🙏 🙏 Please keep us posted. God is so good.

[@Catfishbill66]

If more people will believe in faith and family this world will be a better place God bless you Spence and ben and your beautiful daughter

[@TheSavvyCouple]

Shivers hearing Ben get emotional and say “keep praying”. So powerful.

[@agentcam2033]

First time Father.. with a 8 month waiting for me at home.. thank you for sharing your story, your journey. Truly touched my heart. A reminder that God deserves all the Glory. Blessing to all and you guys family. Including the KZbin community 🤲🏽

[@riprogerssmokeyjohnson5912]

Very glad you decided to continue. Enjoy your breakdowns of the games.

[@benjaminwolff1439]

This is the best episode ever! Faith, Family, and Football. Your witness planted some major seeds in this podcast fellas! Prayers fellas!

[@clacoski]

Glad you're back!!! Both you guys!! Football season. Welcome Jared Wow! Thank you for sharing this wonderful story. ❤❤❤