Photo by Emily Lucarz Photography
Samantha Rudolph, a former director of business development at ESPN, turned to her engineer husband, Jared Miller, with an idea that eventually led them to found Babyation, a “parent-tech company” that makes breast pumps for the modern family. In creating the breast pump, the couple was “looking to solve actual problems parents have,” says Samantha. A St. Louis native, she moved her family back after winning a $50,000 Arch Grant last year. The couple and their 2-year-old son, Exton (the company’s Chief Baby Officer), love food but don’t always have time to cook elaborate meals. Here's how they do it.
More Veggies, Please!: When the family eats together, their tastes aren’t always the same. Samantha naturally gravitates toward salads and vegetarian fare, while Jared goes for a traditional hot meal with meat, vegetables, and a grain. A healthy balance keeps everyone happy, but Jared gives all the credit to his wife for inspiring the family to “eat well.”
Meal Prep: Jared built Exton a kitchen stool, so he can stand at the kitchen counter and assist with meal preparation. Exton’s specialties include eggs and coffee, while Jared has developed a “whole new skill set” of holding a child while cooking.
Cooking Trends: Though the family does own an Instant Pot, they use the recipes on the New York Times Cooking app far more often.
Healthy Competition: Samantha and Jared will sometimes choose a main course, such as a beef brisket, and then compete while preparing it à la Iron Chef America. He might smoke brisket in his kamado-style grill outside while she braises the meat inside.
Saturday Date Night: The couple tries to reserve Saturday nights for themselves, often going out to a nice restaurant. The pair say they have an abundance of dining options, thanks to St. Louis' evolving restaurant scene. Samantha’s current obsession is poke; Jared laments that Sugarfire is “way too close to the office.”
Sample Weekly Menu
- Sunday: Smoked turkey with roasted veggies
- Monday: Big salad with arugula, farro and roasted veggies
- Tuesday: Big salad for Sam; leftover turkey/veggies for Jared
- Wednesday: Homemade poke bowls
- Thursday: Instant Pot or slow cooker meal
- Friday: Thai takeout
- Saturday: Date night
