Mention It All - Famous People Are The Biggest Fans Ft. Crystal Kung Minkoff

Episode Date: February 26, 2025

Crystal Kung Minkoff is settling back into her big life after three seasons on RHOBH, and she’s in the studio with Dylan to recap what she’s been up to. They reflect on the ups and downs of her time on the show, and how her family handled the added attention. Crystal also talks about her love of hosting and her circle of very famous friends, who happen to love Housewives just as much as the rest of us. She and Dylan also talk about her latest project, an exciting new podcast with Cynthia Bailey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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See Store Online for details. Betches Media presents. Ha ha, laugh, funny. Mention It All, a Bravo by Betches podcast. We don't say that, but now we said it. With me, Dylan Hafer. We're going to check, me, though. Hey, everyone.

Welcome back to the Mention at All podcast. I am so thrilled today to have a long-time favorite, but first time in the studio, the last time we talked was in the depths of Zoom COVID era, but she's here and we're going to get into it all. Crystal, Kang Minkoff. Thank you for having me. Thank you for being here.

Oh, my God. It's such a... I love vetsches. I love you. I'm like such a fan. It's fun to be here. It's really lovely to see you. I just want to get out of the way.

We miss you. Thank you. I think a lot of people do. Obviously, you know, things change. We go through different eras. But, you know, we're missing you on the show this season. Thank you. I see a lot of positive things.

I'll tell you, doing a show like this, your worst fear is your exit when you say yes to it. Because you don't know what that's going to look like. and generally it's not good. So it feels really nice. I just, there's so much positivity. When I left of like people saying, they miss me or they really love my family.

It's like all the things that I, you know, you get nervous about. Yeah. That we sort of held on to maintain. So that's been really nice. Well, it's like when you joined the show,

it was, I mean, first of all, it was like COVID times, which was weird in and of itself. And then there were like, there was like some, you know,

bullshit happening with like, friendships and everything like that. I feel like leaving the show now you're like, okay, like I'm in a pretty good spot. I did okay. Yes, exactly. Like you, when you, they say you got out unscathed, I really feel like, wow, that's like the barometer to how well you did. And I feel that. But, you know, the whole process, like I learned so much. So yeah, overall, I look back on it, like really fun. What is it like now, you know, this sort of like year in your life that you have had like post show. What is it like kind of having that time back and maybe a little bit of that privacy back and whatever else? What is it like in this new era? It's, I just feel like I'm back to my life

with this, you know, veil that I did the show. It's like still there. But I kind of jumped back so hard into my life where like I think that I'm invisible and I'm not. So like people come up to I'm like, I look like, you know, trash when I walk around and shop. And, like, I just, like, no one knows who I am. I just feel totally invisible. And I realize I'm not because then I see on Reddit, someone, like, post a picture me at Costco. And they're like, oh, yeah, like, people that I was on that show, you know.

But it's great. Like, I had a really, really big, fun life before. Yeah. And, you know, I started the show during COVID. So, you know, Rob always says to me, like, in a weird way, even though it was so weirdly traumatic COVID, like, it actually helped you get through it because. everyone else is severely in lockdown and you got to go like film a show. So as I was leaving this show, you know, the world opened up again. So now I get to just go back to my life. You know,

yeah. You had how much like, how much housewives had you consumed before you got involved with it? I always watched Beverly Hills. And I watched Orange County because I was at UC Irvine. Right. When it started. So that's like, it's so crazy to think back to that time. Like, I imagine that was almost this like murmur going around of like there's this show. Yeah. That's like here. Yes. I mean it's but like I knew like I knew Kathy.

So yeah. I knew of the show of course. I watched the show. But it was certainly not on my radar to ever be on the show. You know, but I was like a fan. I love the show. But I didn't. I realized the fandom is so extreme.

So I'm gentle when I say fan. I watched the show but I didn't think about it later. I wasn't commentating on it. We've had people that are like, oh, like, were they behind this Twitter account? And you're like, no, I was, I watched it sometimes. I watched it. Exactly. Because I just, you don't know how big it is.

Yeah. I remember Doreet said to me, like, my first season filming, because I just was so casual. And she's like, you don't realize how big the show is. I'm like, I don't know. I just think it's a reality show. It's really big. I'm like, okay, whatever. And then you end up at BravoCon.

And it's like, oh, okay. Yeah. And you have to have security with you. And, but I just find, like, I sometimes during it was like I would look at myself from like a wider lens. I'm like, who is that person getting to do all this stuff, you know? Yeah. Yeah, you know, it doesn't feel real. And it's still, I look back like, I watch the show now, like, I was on that show.

It's like, it's really weird. And it was only like eight months ago. Have you been watching this season? I've got up a little bit. Yeah. At the beginning, I didn't want to watch it. It was like too hard. and then it quickly was kind of like, oh, it's kind of interesting.

But I see clips and, you know, just kind of getting back into it. Yeah. I don't watch that much TV, though. I'm just like, in general. I have other shows to catch off with right now. Like, I've even seen White Lotus yet. White Lotus is good. I know.

Like, I need to watch that. But I do watch Traders. I feel like you could be on White Lotus. Really? Yeah. Is that a compliment? I haven't seen it. Yeah.

I mean, like, I feel like you could just like pop up a little bit and it would be like, oh, that's fun. There's like a hundred people. Like Kathy Hilton should be on the White Lotus. Really? I can't wait to see it. I saw the first season. Yeah. But I mean, I haven't seen like the new one, which everyone's talking about.

When, can you tell me when you first met Kathy? Like how, because that relationship is so fun. Yeah, I know. What's the like origin there? So, okay, I'll give you like the two minute background. Rob's producing partner and best friend, Jason, is married to Kimberly Clark, who was Kimberly Hilton. Yes. And Kimberly was married to Barry, which is.

Rick's brother. So my best friend was sister-in-laws with Kathy before. And they actually, Rick and Kathy met at my friend's wedding. So that goes back 40, I don't know, 50, whatever years. I know, like I wasn't around then. You weren't there. I wasn't even there. I wasn't even thought, yeah. It was a blip. But Kim, when they opened the win in Vegas, Kim and Jason asked us to go with them for the opening because Kathy and Rick invited them. And that's when I'm. met her 18 years ago. It's like crazy. Before we started recording, we were talking about how far back you go with Jennifer

Tilly. Yeah. Who worked with your husband in three movies, you said. Like, it is crazy how these like friendships and relationships that you have now in like 2025 have just like morphed and come back in these like unexpected ways. I mean, your housewives didn't even exist back then. But I would have like bet my entire life savings that I would never. come back to them on a show like real house wise. Like that's what's so ironic and funny about it.

Yeah. Which is why I think like I said, I look back on my life. I'm only for you too, but I look back on my life. Like these, it's so crazy. Like all the connections and it's so fun. I mean, it's wild. Well, I think it's interesting too because like you've said, you, you had such a big life outside of the show before the show and you still do. And like the friendships and relationships that we see on the show aren't always, it's not that they're not real, but they're not necessarily like the most key part to your real life. Right, right. It's not, it's like the friendship, it doesn't look like what it does in real life. Right. Because all those relationships have to relate to the cast members. So it only fits so much time of like my relationship with Kathy. You know, they really

quickly, like that's what I find so interesting. And when I watched it, you know, when you introduce a new person on the show, you only have one moment. We're like, this is my friend. She's coming to the dinner. Great. Now she's like a full housewife. And the audience just accepts it. Like I did. I was like, oh, that's the new person on the show. And it, you know, but you can't really get into the history of it all. But you do talk about it. It's not like, so the girls would ask, like, how do you know Kathy? I told the story. But they just don't air it. Right. So there's no context. I thought it was interesting on your podcast, which we will get into more. A couple episodes ago, you and Cynthia were talking about sort of your maybe a little unique journey of interviewing for the show, getting on the show, and that you were originally going to join the show as like Teddy's friend. Yeah. And then months later, by the time you started filming, Teddy wasn't even on the show anymore.

That's right. And so you're kind of like, okay, wait, what happened? Yeah, yeah. I mean, for me, it was like, I was so happy that I had Kathy and Teddy. Yeah. And I was definitely closer with Kathy. But Teddy and I have a lot of mutual friends. And so we were on this kind of same mom world.

But I remember it was like really coming close. I remember it was like, oh, we're starting to film like first week of October. It was already mid-September. And they hadn't said anything to me yet. Like they hadn't even said they wanted me on the show yet. And we started back in March. It was a long process. And there was like articles coming out that Teddy was not coming back.

And then I sent it to Rob. He goes, well, now you don't have to worry. Like, you're not going to get the show. I was like, okay. It was like, you know, it's like getting broken up before they even like, dating. I was like, oh, it was like, so I had like mixed feelings. It's been six months of this. And then all of a day, I get a text like, oh, can you jump on a Zoom? Because it was still COVID with, with, like, NBC. I'm like, oh, this is when they're breaking up with me. And they're like, you're the new house life. I'm like, I'm very confused. You're like, wait, I need a little bit of...

Yeah. And they're like, you're coming with Kathy. And like, and that's just how it worked. I was like, okay. Like, I didn't know, you know. Was that the first season that Kathy had really done the show? Yeah, that was our... That's like, it's funny to think about that obviously you two go way back and Kathy had

ties to the show from the beginning with her sisters, but that like the stars just kind of aligned at the same time like 10 years later. Yeah, well, Kathy had called me over the summer. Right. And she'd obviously been really like talking to them for. for a long time. For me, it was like once a month. They would call me. Like, can you get on a Zoom? Like, okay. And then they'll call you in a month. I'm like, okay. With her, obviously, with her sister, and like Kim, she was so involved with the production. I didn't know them.

Right. So she had called me like, I think they, like, I told them, I'll do it with you. I was like, oh my God, Kathy's call. Like, this is the weirdest thing. I mean, we weren't close like that, like to do it. I've never been on TV. So, and I looked at Rob. I go, oh, my God, Kathy wants to, like this. She called me like three in the morning. Like, Kathy's so crazy. And I covered the phone. I said, Rob, Kathy's wants me to do the show. And he goes, well, it's good enough for Kathy Hilton.

It's good enough for you. I'll never forget being in bed in the middle of the night and him saying that to me. So good, so good. Everything you want for summer is at Nordstrom Rack stores now and up to 60% off. Stock up and save on the brands you love like Vince, Sam Edelman, Frame and Free People. Join the Nordy Club to unlock exclusive discounts. shop new arrivals first and more. Plus, buy online and pick up at your favorite rack store for free.

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And you've had enough of sure. shopping from your couch. Done hoping it looks anything like the picture when you tear up on that envelope. It's time for a little in-person spring treat. It's time for a trip to Ross. Work your magic. I feel like a lot of the time on the like social media like fan perspective, there will be rumors and announcements and things that you're hearing about. And it's like, I don't think any of this has even happened here. I don't think any of it's real. None of it's real. I don't think anybody signed a contract. I don't even know if the meeting has been held. Yeah. I was literally asked to do it two weeks.

before filming. Yeah. Yeah. Do you, so for somebody like you who has like other stuff going on in your life, do you, are you all As opposed to the other two doors? Well, no, but like, are you all of a sudden like, wait, I need to like reschedule doctor's appointments and kid stuff and you like my life. Yeah, my whole life like shut down and because it's like about four months.

Yeah. And I was like, oh, like I remember it was like spring break. And like, I was like, oh, well, I'm going to go to spring break. like I take the kids, you know, away all the time. And they're like, no, we don't have spring break. Like, I was like, I lived on a school schedule. I was like, do you guys all have kids? You're like mom to little kids.

Yeah. And I'm like, there's to read on the show. They all have kids. And they're like, oh, no. Like, they're like, Crystal, you're so lucky because of COVID. You know, they shifted the schedule. So Beverly Hills used to only film in the summer. And they're like, we've never had a summer break with our kids.

I was like, I can't do the show. Like, I need a vacation already, you know? And they're like, now it's spring break. So I told Brava. like you guys like I can't I can't take you guys skiing or whatever they're like what is they were so upset so I didn't have spring break for a couple of years and now I get to like you know it's that's nice it seems like a little thing but then it's like those are yeah your your kids are I know it sounds like first road problems but it's more indicative of just like everything

shuts down yeah like I can't do the school pickups I can't like I don't know what time the dinner ends and then it's like you know so suddenly the calendar where rob and I we have like I am really in my Google calendar yeah like all our dinners were together, it's suddenly a new calendar of like, oh, you know, I have this work dinner that, you know, it's like you have to be the kids. It was a lot more logistic. Yeah, you're like, I'm going to be at Erica's house for three hours. Well, she tells me about a story about the snow and driving or something like that. Ready to soundtrack your summer? With Red Bull Summer All Day Play, you choose a playlist that fits your summer vibe the best.

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And, like, your daughter just turned 10. Yeah. You're, like, planning a bar mitzvah for your son. Yes. Do you feel like your view of, like, being in the public eye is shifting at all as your kids kind of get? more like tiny adults. Well, it's so interesting. And I said, like, the universe has always guided me and protected me.

And I'm not, like, that kind of person. I'm not, you know, but I really think about all these, like, moments in my life. And I remember when we said yes to the show, it was a big family decision. We brought all our friends. And we had, like, I was, I'm really into research. And so, like, I asked all my friends to watch and, like, what do you think? And, of course, everyone said, don't do it. But ultimately, we said yes, you know.

And I remember Rob particularly said, okay here's the deal with the kids like i think zoe was like four something like that max was sick and and rob said i just don't want to do this if they go when they go to middle school i just feel like middle school's a really tough time i you know we don't know what it's going to look like for you and we have to protect our kids you know rob's whole career is working with child actors and stuff and he just seen the ups and downs and our kids have never wanted to be on tv they're not you know those kinds of kids so it's like this is a family decision but we're making them do it. And he was very much like, let's, let's leave before middle school. And it's like crazy

because I probably would just kept going. Like you just, it's sort of like a, it's a weird relationship. It's like you don't want to and you do. And Max started middle school this year. So just like the universe like settled like settled up this chapter of my life sort of on its own. Yeah. In the best way, you know, that was right for us. But you know what the kids like they don't watch it. They just see clips. It's like like, like, Max, the kids particularly loved when Rob just got back into town and he was in Norfolk. And Max was like, like, it was so funny. It was like such a perfect, like, that's how our family works.

Like, he couldn't believe he was saying fuck. And, yeah, and those are kind of fun moments to look back on. But the show doesn't really, like, show my whole family. Well, I think that's the thing where, like, when you are, you know, like with somebody like Kyle who has these, like, you know, adult women, daughters who have their own dynamics. like that becomes sort of its own thing. But like when you have like a seven year old and a 10 year old or, you know, whatever ages they were, like there's only so much like, it wouldn't make sense for it to be like about that.

No. And they said that too. So when I started, I was like, you know, I'm really protecting my kids. And they said, don't worry. Like young kids are not. It's more context that you're like a mom, you're at home. You know, you're a tiger mom. You are.

And it's like that it's just contextual of the family. But they said they're not. really on it that much. And I would say my kids were maybe on it every four episodes for three minutes. Yeah. So I understand. So it was fine. And I think some of the kids are like in high school and older who want to become, you know, famous or whatever. Like that's a great catalyst for it. I just my kids, I mean, they're so young. It was, but I was very much like, please make sure my kids look good. Yeah. And it was fine. It was fine. Yeah. Even if they're wild, like they're kids. Like it doesn't really matter. So you are now doing a podcast. Yeah.

Miss Cynthia Bailey, who we love. She's the best. Can you walk me back to like your relationship with Cynthia? Because I feel like Cynthia, Loki, knows everyone. And so do you. Yeah. So, well, it originated because when I started the show, people started calling me the Cynthia Bailey of Beverly Hills.

Okay. Which is so, like, I would just see that everywhere. It was so funny. Okay. And we actually met, people always assume it was like a Bravo thing. But my girlfriend hosted an event. And we both were there. and I walked right up to her

and I just started filming. So this was definitely like in the Bravo space like of the era. But we just connected and we just actually started like texting like she'd come to town and we get lunch. So our friendship really developed

like outside of Bravo. Of course that's like the core of our relationship, you know, our history of what we talk about. But now it's just like goes beyond and she really does know a lot of people in L.A.

And I think we have, we're we come from such different backgrounds, like really different. Yeah. But we're very similar energetically. She is, she's such a, like, I think she's a fascinating, I mean, she's had a fascinating life, like, you know, she's done so many things, but she was on Real Housewives of Atlanta for such a long time.

11 years. And then, you know, has taken time away and now has kind of, like, you know, dipped her toes back in there. But it's interesting, like, the juxtaposition of the two of you where, like, your whole housewives experience is this like compact thing in the last five years and then having her perspective too where she's been doing this since like well like 2009 or something like it's it really is like you have like I think similar but also such different such different yeah I mean like I said it's like under the same umbrella yeah but she started I mean Atlanta was like the biggest one right for so long

and they were so authentic and raw you know it was like so early on you know at the time And they're in Atlanta. It's a mostly all-black cast. I mean, it's so different the things they go through. And then Beverly Hills, I came like much later, you know, much more developed show. But it's opening. I'm like, oh, I needed the break. She's like, girl, you're only three years.

Like, shut up. You're so lazy. I went through the battle. Yeah. Like, she's the most empathetic person. But then every time complained, she's like, shut the hell. Like, shut up. Like, stop complaining.

I don't know how much of her tenure on Atlanta, you've gone back and watched. I've started, I'm into a couple seasons. I feel like she was, I mean, she really had that presence of being kind of like this rock on the show through so many seasons and so many people came and went. And like, it takes a certain quality of person to kind of like weather, weather a lot of storms. Yeah. I think she seems like she has that kind of like gene or whatever that just kind of allows her to like thrive in any circumstance. For her, like you said, for her to weather. that cast 11 years and maintain her poise and maintain her brand. It's like, it's not easy. And I

really respect that. And I'm someone that like, that's something I strive for. So that's why I just, not only should my friend, I just like respect her a lot because I know how hard it was in the trenches. And she, you know, she filmed a couple Beverly Hills episodes. And she's like, oh, this is so easy. You guys are like, so easy. I'm like, they're so mean, you know. And she's like, shut up. Like there's, you know, and watching her go with them like, oh, it gives me perspective, just how I handle things in life now, you know, but it's, she's so fun and funny and she has such wacky stories. And she has crazy story, Hollywood stories herself.

I mean, she's gone through a lot. Yeah. You, you have such an interesting, eclectic group of friends. And I love seeing on Instagram, like, whenever you have like a dinner party or whenever you're out with people. I'm like, okay, like, swiping through this carousel of pictures. It's just like, truly like a bingo card. Wait, I want to go through. You had this dinner party. And I just this list. It's crazy. Let's see. Cynthia was there. Heather Dubrow. Yeah. Oh, my holiday dinner. Jennifer Tilly. Christine Chu from Bling Empire. Paula Abdul. Yeah. Zoe Deschunel,

who you're close with. Yeah. Sheena was there. Ashley Park was there. Like, you are such a connector of people in a way that I think is like fascinating on like a, you know, know, fun, like, celebrity level, but also just like, it's cool. Thank you. I, you know, I love, I get energy from hosting and being around people. And, like, I love throwing parties. You know, I love, like, it started with, I went to culinary school in my 20s, and I just loved to cook and entertain.

And it's been really special for me. And so, like, to host something and bring, I'm not, I, I, somebody I don't like about women, women like this are gatekeepers, a friends. Like, it's a really big thing. Yeah. They keep their friend groups separate. I don't do that. I don't like that because if I'm friends with you and I'm friends with this person,

why wouldn't you guys be friends? You know, and I feel like someone, like if I could be someone to bring them together, they're not going to like, screw me. They're my friends. Like, I trust in that, you know? Yeah. And it's really fun to see the mix. And also it's fun to see like, you know, like a friend who might be,

happens to be a celebrity, get really excited about someone else. Yeah. You know, and I try to make it a really safe space. But yeah, I'm very like, I get. to meet all these fun people and they're just great friends. Yeah, it's fun. I think kind of the, like, the line that you walk between, like, you were on a reality show. Obviously, there's this, like, whole Bravo world.

But then, you know, because of the circle you're in and also because of your husband, it's like you have so many of these, like, bona fide, like, Hollywood friends, too. Like, I think sometimes people would think there would be, like, a friction there between, like, you know, like, the real famous people don't want to hang out with, like, these, like, reality TV. The real famous people are the biggest fans. Let me tell you. They're the ones that checks me wanting to know every detail when I'm filming. They know, they are. And it's so interesting because I think years ago, they didn't admit it. People did not admit loving housewives. Now it's pop culture. Yeah. Now it's just water cooler talk. People love it. And so I think it's like, they're just so

excited. I mean, my friends were like dying that I was joining the show. They want to know every detail. It's really funny, actually. Yeah. It is funny because then it's like there is that, that line though of like, okay, like, I want to know about it, but like, I'm not going to, I'm not going to go on it. Yeah, exactly. And it's so funny because some people will also say, like, they'll, you know, meet me and there'll be like, oh, I'm so sorry. I don't watch it. I'm like, what are you sorry about? Like, I get that too. I get that too. I mean, people meet me and they're like, I don't watch Housewives. I'm so sorry. I'm like, I can talk about other things. I know. It's weird. And I'm like, there's literally 12,000 shows airing

right now that I don't watch. It's like, and I'm not going to apologize the person. Right. But I always get that so often. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry to watch it.

I'm like, oh, I, girl, do you? It's okay. I don't always watch it either. Yeah. But actually,

you know, it's funny. I remember I, Zoe Dichnell literally, like, dressed up as Angie K from Salt Lake City for Halloween.

I mean, that's like, and she, oh, I think she does a lot of Bravo. Yeah. Dressups. Well,

also, I mean, Zoe Dachianel, famously, with a property brother. Yes. Like that's, I think that's something too where it's like

they're from these two different worlds but it's like everybody has stuff in common. LA is crazy. LA is a wild place. So what is like doing this podcast now, obviously you're sharing stuff about your life. You're talking about, you know,

whatever on the show. How do you view it kind of differently from being on housewives and sharing stuff about your life in that arena? Yeah. Well, it's so interesting. I, it's, this show, started, the podcast started, because I always kind of felt like I'm the real housewife of Beverly Hills.

Like whatever the show is designed to look like, I was actually the person, like in real life. But of course, the show has to take its turns about the fighting, whatever. And by the way, there's a lot of fighting in fighting in real life. Yeah. But, you know, it's a curated type of show. And so I thought it would be really fun to start a podcast. And it's almost like my life is like BTS of a show like this. And so while we're going on girls' trips and, you know, there's like celebrity people, all that stuff is happening.

But at the end of the day, we're just like real people. Yeah. And we have similar issues to everyone, regardless of where you live. But I just knew I had like, I would just tell random stories about my life. And even on the show, like we did like my first season, they were like two truths and a lie. And I was like, oh, I was, you know, I worked an escort agency. and they were like, you have the craziest stories. It's just a function of living in L.A., I think.

And I was like, you know, there should be a place where I can actually tell these stories without it being, like, edited, salacious, whatever. It's just my stories. And Cynthia's, like, the perfect partner because she thinks I'm crazy and laughs at me. And I love it. It's so fun. It is, like, I think it's fun that you, like on a show like Housewives, obviously, you film a lot. only a certain amount makes it to air, but even what you film, it's like, not everything is going to

like come up in conversation or whatever. So I think like knowing that now you can kind of like pick and choose and pull out layers and things. And like, yeah, it's, it's fun to just like kind of be a little freer with it. Totally. Beverly Hills is like the Cliff Note version of all those things. Yeah. And now I get to like expand and expunge on like all those stories that people are interested in. Like I did a whole episode of my 14 friends. Which like I couldn't even talk about on the show because it was breaking the fourth wall. It was about the show. So, you know, that's what's so nice about.

I finally was able to, like, tell the whole story. I thought that was so interesting because I, you're right that that story is more about the show maybe than we realized when it was first kind of like brought up. Yeah. And I almost wonder if, like, if you were joining the show now, would they have really? I feel like they might let you just talk about it. I think breaking the fourth wall happened right after. Yeah.

They had never broken the fourth wall up to that point. So we never even talked. talked about it. So it was sort of like I felt paralyzed because like what happened, you know, you're supposed to explain yourself, right? Yeah. Women you don't even know. We were like, and I didn't know how to talk about it without breaking the fourth wall. So I was very what because like Doreet would always be. Doreet's like like very like a corporate girl. And she's like, don't bring the fourth wall.

Don't do it. I'm like, okay. And then Renaud always said that. Don't break the fourth wall. I'm like, okay. So I remember feeling very paralyzed telling the story because it was all about that. So in turn, they're looking at me like, oh, she's very sneaky. She's withholding. But I'm like, I'm trying to tell the story in an authentic way under the rules. So it's impossible. So I was just like, oh, well, I kind of have, I lost friends. And I couldn't tell the story. I was like, that's it. Well, that was also, I mean, that your first season on the show, the issues with you and Sutton and the whole like word choice. Cyclone, you know, like it kind of gets wrapped up in that where it's like, if you can't say what you actually want to say because it's the,

this fourth wall thing, then it's going to be used as another instance where you're not being, you're not being honest or you're speaking in code or whatever. So that becomes the storyline, right? Crystal speaks in code and she doesn't tell the truth and she's not forthright. And I'm like, okay, what are you just like let it go? Because then I'm sitting there watching it like, I want to tell it, but I can't. And then also, you know, when you do interviews and stuff, you don't want to tell the whole. I just wasn't, like, it just didn't make sense at that.

It was very confusing for me. It's, you know, it's on me. Well, and I think also, like, the, the, when you can't talk about it, it just gives people room to be, like, to think of every horrible thing they can. And it's like, okay, what could she have done to lose friends? Could she have, like, murdered someone? Yeah. Because she have stolen someone's husband.

It's like, okay, no, actually, somebody was salty that they didn't, aren't on housewives. Yeah, it's crazy because I, yeah, that was a lot of that. Like, what could she have done? And I'm like, dun, dun, da, you know, and I'm like, but I also was, you know, I didn't really feel like I wanted to start going, like, on this tour of telling everybody what happened. I wasn't really ready yet because I was too in it, you know, at the time still. So, but that's why it never went anywhere because the girls knew it was about the show. And I think when you talked about it on your podcast also, you were talking about how, like, because it was your first season and you were filming for the first time, like, you also were still getting. comfortable with the idea of even being a public person who's being there at all, yeah.

Friendships are on TV and who's getting analyzed and reacted to and all of that. So it's like, it gets kind of wrapped up in this thing of like, I can't share that much, but how much would I want to share even if I could? But then it's weird if I don't. Like it's. If they only had a show that like followed what was in my head for like a year, it would be, I don't know if it would be a great reality. It would be like an interesting documentary of like, I mean, like I feel like a elaborate. you know, of how that, what that experience was like, because it was like a show within a show and it was like so much of that. Yeah.

And it was hard for me to navigate. Like, I feel like my life has always been very much like transparent and like normal people. Like normal lives are like that. Like there's nothing salacious. Like so that trying to manage that internally was really hard for me. Yeah, that was my biggest struggle. Right. Like most people when they go to dinner or go on a girl's trip, like you, you don't expect

that there's conflict. No. And it's weird though because you also walk on, like when this camera's there, you're waiting for it, which is also not natural. Yeah. You know, but that's why I love doing Hummel Brague because I get to talk about all of it. And I always talk about it in a way, and Cynthia and I were very clear, like not to be like

negative about people, just being really like clear about what happened. And we just sort of dive into all the stories that never got flushed out that we can tell our POV, you know. Everyone has our own POV, right? Like, it could have been different for someone else. But, you know, we really dive into those moments where people are always like, we ask questions like, you know, like, what do you have questions about? And people, of course, they wanted 14 friends. Like, that was a big one.

Like, okay, we'll dive into that one. People really want to know those things because there's just not enough time to show it on the show. Right. There really isn't. And it's someone's fault. It's just, but now I get the platform to do it. And yeah, I love it. It's great.

I like to that you're, like, from what I've listened to your show, like there's, like, there's, You guys aren't, like, hesitant to talk about your experiences on these shows, but also it's not like, it's not like Crystal's Housewife Recap podcast. Like, it feels very like, it can be anything you want it to be. And in that way, it feels more like true to. Yeah, because the whole idea is like we're just, you know, like moms and whatever, like living in L.A. and all. And doing a show like this is part of living in L.A. and being in Hollywood. Yeah. So it's actually just.

one of the things that happened in my life, while it's a really, really big one, I don't want to ignore. We're not going to ignore it on the podcast, you know, but we're not recapping it. It's not a Houseway podcast, you know. But the fact is 11 years of her life, and now it's airing in a couple weeks for her, her new season. And for me, for the last four years, was the Housewives. And so that's all those experiences will be talked about, you know. And like I did one that I ran into Renna two weeks ago in Paris. And like, those are real things. And it's not a house I think. It's just, but it was all basic. on Housewives how I really know Renna, but like those stories. And yeah, it's, but it's so cathartic and it's fun. And, you know, when I'm sitting across India, it's a safe space. I'm like, oh, yeah, like people are listening on the outside. But I don't care because what I'm saying is real. Yeah. So, you know, and the other people know it's real what happens. Yeah. You mentioned you ran into

Rina. It sounded like you guys had a better than expected cordial interaction. I wasn't expecting. I wasn't expecting not cordial. I was expecting ignoring. Okay, okay. I was going to ignore her. There is like, I feel like Kyle and Lisa Vanderpump have some two versions of a story where it's like, I saw her at Neiman Marcus and we didn't speak and it's like, yeah, it happens sometimes. Yeah, and it's like, but by the way, like this happens with people in real life, right? So these are the things that are happening in my life that just happens to be someone who was on Alicewives, you know?

But I was not expecting, I will not like not fight with anyone. You got to pay me to fight, literally. But, like, I was going to ignore her. And, but she just marched right up to me. And it's like, I need to talk to you. I'm like, okay. I was acting like, yeah. You're like, I just got off the plane like an hour.

Literally. Literally. And to her, I was like, yeah, you do. And I was like acting tough inside. I'm like, melting. Like, oh, my God, what is you going to say to me? But it was a long conversation and it went really well. And we made it nice pact.

I was like, we just never had beef on the show. but that's the show energy creates that outwardly and it's weird. It's like you can only understand what it's like to be on the show if you're ever on it. And Eric would always say that to me. Always like everyone will understand. Us seven people will know, but no one will ever understand. And it's so true. It's definitely a sorority club, hellish club that you join.

But it's also like special. Yeah. For the people that are still on the show this season, I know you said that you've kind of been dipping in and out of watching. Is it like, does it feel like it's too soon to kind of like, I don't know. To enjoy it? You feel like you need to like fix with anyone or like, sort of like those relationships. Hmm.

That's interesting. Kind of just like put those on the shelf and it's like, oh, I'll see her when I see her. Yeah. I don't think I need to fix anything with anyone just because it's sort of how I resolved it with Rina our conversation. and I'll get a little bit into it. Like, we really talked about how the show made us. We got to this point. But really, like, in real life, real life, like off the show.

Yes. I knew Renna. We actually went on a vacation after my first season with other friends, like, between filming. Like, no one knew that. Yeah. So, like, I got to know her off. And I said, like, let's try to go back to that feeling.

Like, that was our commitment. Like, let's go back to what it was like. Because the show, so, like, the art. arguments that I had on the show while they're real was driven by the show. Yeah. And so I'm leaving that in the past. So like whatever should I had with other people, I don't hold on to it anymore because I'm not on the show. I would still hold on to if I was still on the show because I had to resolve that. Yeah. But I don't need to resolve that on this side of it, if that makes sense. Yeah. Because I'm, so if I see anyone in a show, like, I'm good with them and I don't

really care. Yeah. So that's, yeah, that's where I'm out with it. I think like, I've talked to people about this before, but it's like the percentage of like conflict that you see on the show that's at least kind of about the show, but you can't say it's about the show. It's like, it's a lot of that. Yes, and I think, see, that's what I'm doing. So when I watched the show before I was ever on, I didn't know that.

Yeah. I really watched it very simply. Just entertainment, turn on, folding laundry, turn it off. But because you kind of get it, and I think that people are now getting a lot more. I think Instagram, all these things make the show, like the veil has been lifted more, that there's so much when you watch a,

about the show. And so, like, you're kind of fighting about things that are not really about that, but it's kind of behind the scene stuff. So I think that part is kind of fun to watch now. Well, that was, like, the season that you were on when it was, the season that Diana was on. Yeah. Like, that whole, like, thing with her and Garcel, like, that got so messy. Like, just stuff like that where it's, like, those extra factors that just are like, it doesn't have to be like this. No, I'm actually really sad that happened. You know, I knew Diana before. I, I guess, yeah, I do. I know a lot of people.

And Dina's tough. Yeah. Like, if she's listening, Diana, you're scary, you're tough. Like, she is. I can't imagine she's listening. But if you are, she's a big girl. But I don't know how or why her and Garcel got to that point. I don't remember the steps.

Like, if you really bring me back, and I will say, I have a terrible memory. It's probably a good thing. Me too. Yeah. But, like, I don't remember. It was, it went from zero to a million, like, and it felt very unwarranted. On both, like, I don't know why it went there, which is really sad because the end results were very real for both of them. It was really toxic and it permeated across all of us.

And I was, I felt very paralyzed in that thing. That friendship was really tough to watch. I mean, didn't even start. But, yeah, I don't know why it got. It was, that was dark and it was really bad. Well, and I think for like from the viewer perspective, like there is a line kind of where it's like people want there to be stakes and drama and intensity to a certain point. But then it's like we also want to watch people like have fun on vacation and wear fabulous outfits and like the balance is important. Yeah.

Yeah. I think what's. I this is just my perspective on it. It's weird because I know it was in it. But I was like when you're two in it, like it's hard to kind of have a wider perspective. But I think, you know, the whole idea of like teams, right, like, which I know is fun, right? That's why sports are so, you know, big. We love teams. But what happens is the outside world keeps perpetuating the teams and then we as a group become teams. Yeah. That is not a real way to make friendship when like this group is on here and this group and you're supposed to be like against each other.

and you're like, and then you get called out for not being supportive for this friend and did it. It's like, I would not do it in my friend group. Like, not on housewives. I would be like, you guys need to fucking get it together. Like, we're friends, you know? But there's a sort of like one after each other. And it's the divide gets so deep that they, it's like they don't stand a chance to become friends. Yeah.

No one's trying to like, I did. I will say this. I tried. Yeah. But I was also this sort of like, this is your team. Right. You know, so it was very hard. Right.

And then if you're the one, if you're, first of all, if you're new, but then you're also the one who's trying to, like, bridge the gap, then you're sort of like, it's like, why you're not in your spot? That's right. Like, I'm a traitor. And I'm like, wait, I thought this is what it's about. Right. But that situation just got so far spread out that it was like there was nowhere to go. Yeah. I mean, sometimes it's like, we just kind of like kind of cut this off.

And I, here's thing. I think, you know, the girls can all be kind of crazy at sometimes, but I do find that there's so much good in all of them. So that's the part that was hard for me. I'm like, you're not seeing this person in the real way. You're not seeing this person. But that's what's so great about house size, because that happens everywhere. You know, we're just sort of poster children for what actually happens in real friendships and real life situations and with your kids and whatever. I think that's why the show is so successful is that it's sort of a, kind of a louder glimpse into, you know, what you go through in your life. Yeah, it feels like a little bit taboo in a way because it's like, oh, I'm watching somebody else's stuff not my own. But it was real. That was very real. Yeah.

That was very real. Well, I'm excited to keep listening to your podcast and especially with Cynthia back on Atlanta this season. I feel like there's going to be some fun little, some fun little BTS there too. Yes. So she called me while they were filming and that is, this is going to be a wild season. Like I couldn't even go with her to a party because it's like too much too scary for me. See, that next season, we got to get the crystal crossover in Atlanta.

So I'm looking forward to watching it. We're going to talk. We don't recap it. Right. There's a lot of stuff like I, for me, it's all about behind the scenes. Yeah. I love to fill in the gaps because there's just too many on the show, you know. And that's what the podcast is about.

You know, we get to fill in those gaps. That's a lot of fun. I love it. Well, congratulations. Thank you. So nice to catch up with you always. Thank you for being here. Thanks everyone for listening. Don't forget to rate, review, and follow the show wherever you listen. And until next time, be cool. Don't be all like uncool. Mentioned It All is produced by me, Dylan Hafer, and edited by Kate McCalliffe. Social Media by Dylan Hafer. Additional production help from Shannon Jimenez-Sassone. Be sure to follow us at Bravo by Betches.

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