You might be wondering why you’re reading about Randi Mahomes in our Arizona-based publication. Well, here’s why: she's a sports mom... just like the rest of us. She spent years shuttling her kids to practices, cheering from the sidelines, consoling after losses, and celebrating big wins- through elementary, middle, and high school. The difference? Her son made it. He became what so many of our kids dream of becoming.
Now, Randi is passionate about helping sports parents become better sports parents, because let’s be honest, it can be rough out there. That’s why you’re reading about the down-to-earth, no-filter Randi Mahomes.
Here is our exclusive Q&A.
Before anyone knew the name Mahomes, who were you?
I was known as a baseball wife, then an ex-wife, and most importantly, as Patrick, Jackson, and Mia’s mom. The early years of motherhood shaped me. They forced me to grow up fast, but they also gave me the greatest gift of my life- motherhood.
What part of your upbringing shaped the way you’ve chosen to parent?
My parents were very strict, and as a kid, I swore I’d be the “cool mom.” But here I am... definitely stricter than I expected. And honestly, I can see how that structure helped shape Patrick and my other kids in the best ways.
You’ve described yourself as grounded in faith and resilience. What moment tested that most?
When I was in school, I had a teacher wrongly accuse me of something. It shook me and almost made me walk away from my faith, but I didn’t. That experience tested everything I believed in, and I came out stronger.
Single parenting is often romanticized when success follows… what’s a side of that experience no one sees?
People don’t see the constant balancing act. You have to be the nurturer and the disciplinarian, the provider and the protector. You carry it all, and some days, that’s heavier than anyone realizes.
I missed a lot... school events, social outings, holidays. I worked long hours to make sure they had what they needed. That was the trade-off, but I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
There’s a lot of talk about parents “not doing too much” in youth sports. Did you ever question whether you were doing enough?
Absolutely. Especially in high school, I remember wondering if I had given him enough support or access. Coming from a small town, we didn’t have many resources.
Tell us about the journey, especially when things started to get serious.
When scouts started showing up- especially during his junior and senior years- it became overwhelming. I wanted Patrick to enjoy being a teenager, but suddenly we were making life-changing decisions. That pressure weighs heavy on a parent’s heart.
I always knew he had something special, but when major league baseball scouts started showing up at his games, I realized this wasn’t just a phase. His focus and commitment was different.
You recently launched Sports Parent Academy. What is it, and what do you hope it gives parents?
I created Sports Parent Academy because I’ve lived this journey... confused, overwhelmed, and without a roadmap like a deer in headlights. I was a young mom navigating uncharted territory. This platform is everything I wish I had, created to guide parents through the ups and downs of raising an athlete. We need more structure and guidance for parents.
What’s one mistake you made as a sports parent that shaped this course?
Nutrition. I kept my kids fed and happy, but I didn’t fully understand the role nutrition plays in athletic development. Looking back, I wish I had made that a bigger priority. But as a working single mom, I did the best I could.
You’ve brought in Stanford doctors, elite agents... even Shaq’s psychologist. What’s the hardest truth parents of young athletes need to hear?
Your kids are becoming their own people. Letting go isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. Sometimes the best thing you can do is step back and let them grow.
How do you help parents support without smothering, especially when they see serious talent in their kids?
Encourage teamwork, positivity, and balance. Teach them that practice and preparation matter just as much as the game, but also remind them that it’s supposed to be fun. That’s what keeps the love for the sport alive.
What role does mental health play in raising athletes?
Emotional wellbeing is everything. Wins and losses come fast, and competition is fierce. Kids need to know how to lose well, process emotions, and stay grounded. Sports is as much a mental game as it is physical.
You’re a mom of three, each with their own personality. What has that taught you about adapting and meeting your kids where they are?
I had to release my expectations. Their dreams might not match the ones I had for them, and that’s okay. Whether it’s sports, college, or something totally unexpected, I’ve learned to support them for who they are, not who I thought they’d be.
What does parenting look like in your household today, especially now that your kids are growing into adulthood, fame, and independence? (And having kids of their own!)
I’m still parenting, but it’s different now. With Mia still at home, I get to be more present, more relaxed. I’ve learned to slow down and enjoy the little moments.
When Patrick became a household name, how did your family dynamic shift?
It was a huge adjustment. Fame changes everything... how people see you, how you move through the world. We had to prioritize privacy, protect our peace, and stay grounded despite the noise.
What’s something about Patrick the public doesn’t see- only a mama would know?
I can always tell when something’s off- when he’s tired, overwhelmed, or hurting. He stays on top of everything, but I still see and sense the little things no one else does.
When are you proudest of Patrick?
When he’s with his kids. Watching him be a present, hands-on dad... that’s the greatest pride of all.
Patrick credits you often. Do you think mothers of elite athletes get enough credit?
Absolutely not, LOL! We are the ones who held it all together. We’re the ones who built that foundation.
You’ve become a staple on social media as both a proud mom and your own voice. Has it felt empowering?
It can be overwhelming, but I know I’m being called to something bigger. God is leading me, and the impact I’m able to have makes it all worth it. Whenever I post something that speaks directly to other parents, I’m always surprised (and touched) by how many reach out with gratitude and questions to learn more.
What does legacy mean to you?
Especially after losing my parents, I understand the power of what we leave behind and how it can shape the next generation.
What do you tell parents whose kids don’t go pro?
It’s okay if they don’t go pro. There’s still purpose and beauty in the journey. My brother didn’t go pro, but now he’s a coach living his dream and coaching his kids, too! God’s plans are always bigger than ours.
You’re all about giving back... what drives that mission?
I’ve been so blessed, and it's how I stay grounded and connected.
If you could create one rule for every sports parent to follow, what would it be?
Stay involved... even when it’s hard. Do what’s best for your child and your family, and don’t give up.
When you look back on Patrick’s childhood, what’s a specific moment that still gets you teary?
His first t-ball game. They were short a player, and he jumped in. He ended up taking over the whole game on the same field where I played as a kid. It was full-circle and unforgettable.
What’s one memory you wish you could revisit?
Our drive to Lubbock when he was deciding on college. Just the two of us, talking for hours. That, and our weekend together before the draft... it was so special.
Was there ever a moment you felt like stepping back or questioned if it was all too much?
When he made it to the NFL, I was overwhelmed. The fame, the lifestyle, the people... it was a lot.
If you had written down a journal entry the day Patrick was drafted, what would it have said?
I knew this day would come. I didn’t know it would be football, but I always knew something big was coming.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Trust your gut and surrender. Let go of your plans and lean into God’s. And don’t forget to stop and smell the roses.
If your kids were to comment, what do you think they’d say about you?
They’d say I’m always there... maybe a little crazy sometimes, but always in their corner. They know I want what’s best and that I built a foundation they can stand on.
The Sports Parent Academy
This exclusive E-Course, created by Randi Mahomes, is for parents raising kids in sports... toddlers just picking up a ball to teens dreaming of going pro. Packed with expert insights and personal stories, Randi offers the real-life guidance she wishes she had along the way.
randimahomes.com