Most wrestling fans know Scott Steiner as “Big Poppa Pump,” the WWE Hall of Famer who dominated ring with his intense persona and incredible physique. But behind this larger-than-life figure stands a woman who chose a completely different path. Christa Podsedly, Scott’s wife of over 25 years, has maintained a deliberately quiet life despite being married to one of wrestling’s most vocal personalities.
While Scott commanded attention in front of millions, Christa built a life centered on family, fitness, and community. She raised two athletic sons, co-ran a restaurant, and provided the stability that allowed her husband to thrive in an unpredictable industry. Her story isn’t about seeking fame—it’s about the strength required to support someone in the spotlight while staying true to your own values.
This article covers Christa’s background and education, how she met Scott Steiner, their family life with sons Brandon and Brock, their restaurant venture, and why she’s chosen privacy over publicity throughout their marriage.
Early Life and College Years
Christa Podsedly was born in the late 1950s in Fairport, New York, to parents David Aloys Podsedly and Susan M. Podsedly. Details about her childhood remain scarce, which isn’t surprising given her lifelong preference for staying out of public view. Those who know the family describe her upbringing as grounded in strong values and community involvement.
She attended the State University of New York (SUNY), earning a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and Wellness & Health Promotion. Her academic focus on health sciences laid a foundation that would influence both her personal interests and future business decisions.
Athletic Background
During college, Christa wasn’t just hitting the books. She served as captain of the gymnastics team, demonstrating leadership skills and a commitment to physical fitness that would become a consistent thread throughout her life. This athletic background created a natural connection to the world of professional sports and fitness—a world her future husband inhabited professionally.
Meeting Scott Steiner: From TV Screen to Real Life
The couple’s love story began in the late 1990s at a gym in Fairport. Christa had seen Scott on television during his wrestling matches and initially had reservations. His brutal on-screen persona as “Big Poppa Pump” made her question what kind of person he really was. She assumed the aggressive character she watched on TV reflected his true personality.
However, as they spent time together at the gym and got to know each other, Christa discovered something completely different. The man behind the wrestling character was caring, funny, and nothing like his televised persona. Their connection developed quickly and genuinely.
After dating for a couple of years, Christa and Scott married on June 7, 2000, in a private ceremony attended by close family and friends. The wedding reflected what would become a pattern in their relationship—keeping important moments intimate and away from excessive public attention.
Family Life and Their Two Sons
Christa and Scott have been married for over 25 years, an impressive achievement in the entertainment world where high-profile relationships often crumble under pressure. They have two sons who’ve both excelled in competitive athletics: Brandon Rechsteiner and Brock Rechsteiner.
Brandon Rechsteiner: Basketball Career
Brandon plays basketball and spent his first two seasons at Virginia Tech, where he led the team in assists during his sophomore year. He averaged 7.0 points and 2.8 assists per game before transferring to Colorado State for the 2025-26 season.
A consensus four-star recruit from Etowah High School in Georgia, Brandon had his pick of programs. He chose Virginia Tech over schools like Gonzaga, Tennessee, and LSU—a decision that showed both his athletic ability and academic judgment.
Brock Rechsteiner: Football and WWE Prospects
Brock plays wide receiver for Jacksonville State University’s football team. The 6’2″ senior had a standout moment during the 2024 season when he caught an 85-yard touchdown reception against Southern Miss. Beyond college football, Brock has also been involved with WWE’s NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) prospect program, potentially following his father’s path into professional wrestling.
Both sons attended Etowah High School in Woodstock, Georgia, where they were standout athletes. Their success in competitive sports reflects the values Christa instilled—dedication, discipline, and character development alongside athletic achievement.
| Family Member | Role/Achievement | Notable Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Christa Podsedly | Wife, Mother, Entrepreneur | SUNY graduate, gymnastics team captain |
| Scott Steiner | WWE Hall of Famer | Married June 7, 2000 |
| Brandon Rechsteiner | Basketball Player | Transferred to Colorado State (2025-26) |
| Brock Rechsteiner | Football Wide Receiver | 85-yard TD vs. Southern Miss (2024) |
The Restaurant Venture: Shoney’s Kitchen & Bar
In 2016, Christa and Scott decided to try their hand at the restaurant business. They co-founded Shoney’s Kitchen & Bar in Acworth, Georgia, opening it in their neighborhood when an older Shoney’s location was closing down.
Scott enlisted help from fellow wrestling stars like Kevin Nash for the grand opening, creating buzz in the local community. For four years, the restaurant served as a gathering spot where fans could enjoy food while surrounded by wrestling memorabilia. It blended Scott’s wrestling legacy with Christa’s business acumen and commitment to community.
Unfortunately, like countless small businesses across America, Shoney’s Kitchen & Bar couldn’t survive the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The restaurant permanently closed in August 2020. The closure was announced on their Facebook page with a straightforward message: “We have closed this business due to COVID-19. We appreciate your patronage over the past 4 years.”
The venture showed Christa’s willingness to take risks and build something outside her comfort zone, even if the timing ultimately worked against them.
Life as Scott Steiner’s Support System
Professional wrestling demands intense physical commitment and emotional resilience. The travel schedule is brutal, the injuries are real, and the pressure is constant. Behind Scott’s successful career stands Christa, whose support has been instrumental throughout the years.
While Scott dealt with the demands of professional wrestling, Christa provided stability at home. She managed family affairs, raised their sons, and offered encouragement through the ups and downs of his career. Scott has publicly acknowledged his wife’s contributions, recognizing that her support allowed him to focus on his demanding profession.
She accompanied him to events and charities when needed but never sought the spotlight for herself. This balance—being present when necessary while maintaining her own identity—defines her approach to being a wrestling wife.
Physical Appearance and Personal Details
Christa stands approximately 5 feet 6 to 7 inches tall with blonde hair and grey eyes. Her exact age remains unconfirmed, though various sources estimate she was born between 1958 and 1962, placing her in her mid-60s. This uncertainty reflects her commitment to privacy and her deliberate choice to keep personal details away from public scrutiny.
Unlike many celebrity spouses who maintain active social media presences, Christa rarely gives interviews or makes public statements. When she does appear at wrestling events or public gatherings, those who meet her describe her as composed, supportive, and gracious.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Thanks to Scott’s successful wrestling career and their business ventures, the couple reportedly shares a net worth of approximately $1 to $2 million. However, unlike many celebrity families, Christa doesn’t flaunt wealth on social media or seek attention for their lifestyle.
The family resides in Georgia, where they’ve built a comfortable life focused on family rather than fame. This approach has allowed them to maintain normalcy despite Scott’s high-profile career and the constant attention that comes with being a wrestling legend.
Why Privacy Matters to Christa
Throughout her marriage to one of wrestling’s most outspoken personalities, Christa has maintained her preference for a private life. This choice speaks to her character and priorities. She understands that not everyone connected to fame needs to seek it themselves.
By staying out of the spotlight, Christa created a stable environment for her sons to grow up without constant media attention. She emphasized education, athletics, and character development—values that shaped Brandon and Brock into successful young men.
Her approach stands in contrast to the current era where many people seek attention and validation through social media and public exposure. Christa chose a different path, one defined by loyalty, privacy, and dedication to family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Christa Podsedly meet Scott Steiner?
They met at a gym in Fairport, New York, in the late 1990s. Christa initially had reservations about Scott based on his wrestling persona.
What did Christa Podsedly study in college?
She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and Wellness & Health Promotion from SUNY while serving as gymnastics team captain.
How many children do Christa and Scott have?
They have two sons: Brandon, who plays college basketball, and Brock, who plays football for Jacksonville State University.
What happened to their restaurant?
Shoney’s Kitchen & Bar in Acworth, Georgia, closed permanently in August 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on small businesses.
What is Christa Podsedly’s net worth?
Christa and Scott reportedly share a combined net worth of approximately $1 to $2 million from his wrestling career and their ventures.
Conclusion
While Christa Podsedly may not have championship titles or wrestling accolades, her impact on Scott Steiner’s life and career can’t be overstated. She provided the stability, love, and support that allowed him to thrive in one of the most demanding industries in entertainment.
Beyond her role as a wrestling wife, Christa demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit through business ventures and athletic accomplishments during her college years. She raised two successful sons who are making their own marks in competitive sports while maintaining strong family bonds. Her story represents countless partners who support public figures from behind the scenes—individuals whose contributions are essential but often unrecognized. In an era where many chase fame and attention, Christa chose loyalty, privacy, and dedication to family. That choice reveals more about her character than any spotlight ever could.
