Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Share the Advice They Gave Their Son Joaquin, 22, After His College Graduation (Exclusive)

Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, the beloved couple known for their vibrant personalities, recently opened up about the valuable advice they imparted to their youngest son, Joaquin, who just celebrated his college graduation at the age of 22. In an exclusive interview, the couple touched on their thoughts and feelings regarding Joaquin’s next steps in life during the premiere of their new ESPN series, “Running with the Wolves.” This series is a significant milestone for them, as it showcases their thrilling journey as the proprietors of the Italian soccer club, Campobasso FC.

The Importance of Patience

Mark Consuelos shared a poignant piece of wisdom with Joaquin, emphasizing a simple yet profound philosophy: “slow and steady wins the race.” This advice underscores the significance of patience and persistence in achieving long-term success. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for young graduates to feel pressured to hurry up and establish themselves in their careers. Mark’s mantra serves as a reminder that meaningful achievements often take time and careful planning. This insight aims to anchor Joaquin amidst the myriad of directions his new life may take, encouraging him to tread thoughtfully on his chosen path.

Less Guidance, More Independence

Kelly Ripa further elaborated on their approach to parenting, noting that sometimes, providing too much guidance can be counterproductive. She acknowledged that children may not readily accept advice from their parents, especially as they transition into adulthood. Hence, Ripa expressed her belief that giving Joaquin space to navigate his own decisions can be beneficial for his growth. Both parents take great pride in their three children—Joaquin, along with their older son Michael, 28, and daughter Lola, 24—feeling a sense of joy as they observe their accomplishments and individual journeys.

Joaquin’s Bright Future Ahead

In a light-hearted moment during an appearance on “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” the couple humorously addressed the fact that their children seldom watch their daily talk show. Joaquin quipped that he prefers to catch up on episodes at a later time, highlighting the normalcy and independence they’ve fostered within their family dynamic. Ripa also discussed the advantages her children have enjoyed, particularly the fact that they have graduated without incurring student loan debt. This financial relief is a source of comfort for her as a parent, allowing the family to approach the future with greater confidence and security.

The premiere of “Running with the Wolves” is fast-approaching, scheduled for July 29, 2025, on ESPN and ESPN+. As Ripa and Consuelos embrace this new chapter in their lives, they continue to impart wisdom to their children, blending traditional values with modern realities to ensure they thrive in a competitive world.

As Kelly and Mark guide their children through life’s pivotal moments, they exemplify a supportive and nurturing family environment. Their journey as parents and as television personalities resonates with many, making their stories relatable and inspiring for families navigating similar challenges.