On Display with Melissa Gorga - East Coast Meets Orange County (w/ Gina Kirschenheiter)

Episode Date: December 14, 2023

Melissa welcomes Gina Kirschenheiter (RHOOC) onto the show to talk her recent tiff with Andy Cohen, her interesting casting story to become one of the Real Housewives of Orange County, and who she thinks will return for the next season.  We also get the ladies' thoughts on Denise Richards little return to Beverly Hills, and how stepping back into the reality tv world can be stressful, even for an OG.  This week's sponsors: Dime - Clean, High-End, Affordable Skincare: Dimebeautyco.com Peloton - Special December Offer: Onepeloton.com/offers Progressive - "Name-Your-Price" Tool: Progressive.com Loft - Fun, Feminine Fashion: Loft.com - Promo code: MELISSA ($25 off) Loft Disclaimer: $25 off your full price purchase with code MELISSA. Offer valid 12/14/2023 through 1/1/2024 at 2:59am ET only at LOFT.com when you enter code MELISSA at checkout. Valid on in-stock full price merchandise, excluding sneak preview, third-party merchandise, and cashmere. Total full price purchase must exceed $25 before taxes and shipping & handling are applied. Offer not combinable with total store promotions, free shipping on qualifying orders of $99+ or other discounts unless otherwise stated. In the event of a return, discount will be deducted from refund and may not be re-used. Not redeemable for cash. May not be applied towards payments on outstanding credit balances, purchases of gift cards or e-gift cards, or, except as stated in our Return Policy, adjustments to prior purchases, returns, or exchanges.

This episode is brought to you by Peloton. For Peloton's December offer, head to 1peloton.com slash offers. I'm always gonna defend myself, but I try to do it in a respectful manner, because I want the ending to be like resolution. What's up everyone? Welcome to another episode of on display. I'm actually really excited about today's episode. You guys know I love when I get a good real housewife on. So I have a real housewife of OC today, but she's a true East Coast girl who's just living on the West Coast. She's a mom, she's an entrepreneur,

and she's recently added podcast host to her resume. Ladies and gentlemen, today I have Gina Kirchenhider. Wow, you've nailed my last name, good job. Good job. I tried so hard. You nailed it. You nailed it. Did I? I try to make the E and go in there. Kirch and I. Is that good? To use all four team letters. It's pretty good. I mean, honestly, it took me a minute to figure out, like to spell it to, took me a while. My poor, yeah, I'm still trying to spell their own name. I know. They have like one of those long last night.

My kids always had it easy. It's like Gorgas. So easy. It was easy, easy, easy. No, easy. I know. How are you? Good. I honestly, I feel like there's a part of me that is still recovering from Brabocon, even though it was like a minute ago. I'm just, I know.

I know. Recovering. And then now going into the holidays, I'm just all holiday mode. Go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, you know, it's exhausting. It is exhausting. I feel like I have an event literally every single day this week. It's like a holiday party. And then my friends also have, they have their holiday parties. But then they do like their business holiday parties that they also invite us to. And like, I I'm like how many parties do you get

Per season because I have other three friends that are also having their it's like insanity So and it's like we live so close to me work. Yeah, and like we're just it's like New York New York New York New York New York Yeah, yeah, yeah, at least my stuff. I have at the same pain point, but I don't really do. It's not LA is not like the same draw. It's different when you're in Jersey or Long Island. Everything's in Manhattan. Here, most of my stuff is still in Orange County, so at least like they're local.

So you're originally from Long Island. How long ago did you move to the OSE? Yeah, so I'm originally from Long Island. I moved to Orange County now. I want to say it was like eight years ago, I think. Yeah, like eight years ago. Yeah, because I had only been here for like, not even two years when I got on the show.

Wow, I didn't even realize that. So you were like a new OC girl. I was a long Islander. Yeah. Right. It's a good, total long Islander. And I had no idea about any of this world or whatever and just kind of happened to me.

And now I am. Yeah. I'm on. It's like I blinked and I'm like, oh, this has been six years in my life. And it's basically been the majority of me living on the West Coast. So it's kind of like a lot.

It goes hand in hand for me now. I guess with like my West Coast identity, it's kind of weird. Yeah, you like really jumped right in there. Well, the holiday, I mean, you move to the West Coast. And then you're on the show and you are like labeled an OC girl for the rest of your life. That's it. It's like people don't even want to hear the word

long Island from you anymore. I know, right? Yeah, I know. But actually, I'm very thankful because sometimes I feel like it's it's almost better to be on the West Coast and representing the East Coast. You know, it's like when you're in the place where you live than the people where you live to, they tend to like kind of

hate on you a little bit. I feel like, but like, for me, because I'm not there, I get like so much East Coast love. And that's nice. And I'm like, oh, if I was on New York, they probably hate me, you know? You know what? That is so true because you didn't grow up there, and they kind of feel like it's almost like how Lisa Vanderpump or any degree, like all of these girls who even come from, like London or wherever, and they have the feel like it's almost like how Lisa Vanderpump or any Doree, like all of these girls who even come from like London or wherever and they have the accents no matter what they're winning because it's like they're not from Beverly Hills, right? There's like a unicorn.

It's like you're mixing it up. So you get like bonus positive credit for like mixing stuff up for bringing like a different flavor to it. But I also want to say, Doreed is definitely not from England. That is, she's from the United States, that accent. Is she? I don't know what that is. You know, I always wonder that and I never ask, I feel like she has a little accent going on there, doesn't she? Like a little ssam, ssam. Who she does? She must have caught it from her husband. Yes, exactly.

Maybe that's what I'm hearing. And she's picking it up a little bit from PK. But for some reason, I always feel like she did not. She was not born in America. I don't know why. You think she doesn't sound like she was? Yeah, exactly. Exactly.

But when I found that out, but Travis definitely has not caught a long Island accent. So, he is from OC. Yes. Yes. My ex has been not, we grew up together with long island and then Travis is from Orange County from the Orbala and the Borden race. I never thought I would like be with an Orange County guy, but he kind of like different than the rest of them. Is he, is that, is it very different being with an old, first of all, you guys have been together for what,

like four years now? Yeah, a bit over, yeah. Been over four years, been a minute. Great. He's like a very, he's got, you know, like the guys here are like so nice. They're so sweet. They're just, well, it depends on where you are.

Like the new pork guys, that's not my bag. But just like the cally guys that are not like representing like Newport or those like Boogie or Neighborhoods, they're just like sweet guys, like nice, sweet guys. And definitely, they're just like so different than like East Coast guys. And nothing against, I married an East Coast guy, you know? But when you come here, you're just like, you're so nice.

It's just different, I don't know. Yeah, like it's the way they speak to you. I think it's all in like the demeanor and just like, I feel like that definitely feels different. I say that about my podcast producer, Brett, who's listening right now, I just think they just have a different way, like a different approach. Like he's just calming and sweet. I feel like he can tell when I want to

like be a bitch or like, ah, not in the mood. And he's like, it's okay. He just like keeps me calm. And I'm like, Joe and I would be screaming at him just right now. Yes. And that is so true because yes, they just allow you like with Travis. I'm just like always losing my mind, but he's like steady. And I think that was part of the problem in my previous relationship. It's like we're too fiery, you know, the two of us kind of got a far out of balance. And then also like, you know, you, you, and then you mix that in with like,

we just weren't compatible, you know, like you and Joe are compatible so you could make it through the fiery parts where we were not. So it just made it the worst case scenario for us. But yeah, the West Coast guys are just, they're just kind of like what is happening right now? I don't really under are you having some sort of a stroke? I'm just going to let you kind of move through this. stroke. I'm just gonna let you kind of move through this. Are you having a stroke? Yeah. When you come back, I will be here for you. I love that. That is me. When I am mad, that is such a good way to explain. It looks like I'm having a stroke laterally. That is the funniest thing I ever heard. No. That is the funniest thing I ever heard. No, but it's true.

Like Joe, Joe, Joe is a Leo. I'm an aerie. If we have an argument, oh my God, like we are like, it would neither of us will back down and we like have to keep speaking and speaking. Get the last word and like prove our point, but it's true that at the end of the day, we're in love, right? And like we're compatible. And we want the same things.

We just like somebody just gives in and we just shut up. Yeah. And it's just it's just the way it goes. Urant to like we have sex or something if I'm being totally honest. And then it's like, all right, forget it. We're good. That's like everything. Yes. Am I the only couple that that works for? Do you guys do that when you get into an argument if you just have sex that fights over?

I always try to pull that card because like obviously I'm also admitting that I'm usually on the wrong side of it. Not on the wrong side necessarily of the initial argument, but then the way I choose to handle it. I'm generally on the wrong side of it. So that's like a very good go to for, you know, like let's just I, I don't really want to, I'll say I'm sorry, but like in a playful way. And now I'm going to seduce you to like just make it all go away and be nice and I don't really want to have to, you know, I hate that like when you're really wrong. And then like you say you're sorry, whatever, but then like they're going to reserve some anger for a little bit of time. And I feel like the getting in the bedroom eliminates that like two day of like you have to feel bad and walk on eggshells. Like let's just get this over with. Exactly. Exactly. It's usually I will say like soon as that happens it's like all right look we love each other. This is like stupid. Like we just like let it go. you know. I used to get mad at that though.

I used to get so annoyed because I'm like, oh, look, you just want to have sex. So like, now I'm good and I'm not mad at it. And it works and I used to get frustrated. But I'm like, no, it's screw that. Come on, let's go have sex. Everything will be better a little bit. But just let me go on.

We know we love each other. We were both out of bounds. Let's just move on. Exactly. Exactly. Well, that's good. You have a nice OC boy who is chill and calm and makes you happy. So you guys are doing good. We're doing good. Yeah, we're doing good. We're steady, you know, which I like, which is awesome. How are your kids? Are they loving OC? Are they adjusted to living there? Are they happy? Yeah, so two of my kids were born on Long Island and then I moved here pregnant with Luca my third and so it's funny to me and they were all like I had three, three and under. So it was, you know, very crazy for a while, but it's funny to me that my kids are truly California kids. That's a weird thing.

They're different than me. And you and I know, like, Jersey and New York, I don't know why it's always like two states, always kind of coupled together. So to me, especially moving away from New York, it's like when you live in Jersey or New York and you're there and you live there, it's kind of like Jersey and New York arrivals. But when you move out, Jersey is like your people still. So to me now, like Jersey and New York, those are all my people, you know. Right. So they become one thing. I'm like protective overall of it. And so it's funny to me because when you're from there, it is like a very unique, special place that is. It's just not like anything else. You know, it's like people from Texas, they're like

people from the South, they're from the South, it's like people from Texas, they're like people from the South, they're from the South, people from North and Jersey, they're from New York and Jersey. And my kids are so freaking California. I'm like, you know, when we lived on the East Coast, my kids got a haircut every, Nicholas got a haircut every two weeks and he was a toddler, you know?

And he's right. He's just wandering around with this long hair and he's like saying all these weird things, which is also like obviously Generational but like a lot of it because he's so west coast. I'm like who are you people, you know It's so it's just so funny. I mean they don't have accent. They have nothing. Do you do you like? I don't I mean do you miss do you miss like hearing the accent? I do like it That's why you know even we're at Bravo Hunt and everything, I just gravitate towards

all of the cast members that are from the East Coast because it does meet me. I'm comfortable with it and it feels like home to me like you feel like home, you know? Right. Yes. No, I know. You're so great even when I met you. Like obviously we didn't know each other that well, but I feel. You're so great even when I met you. Like obviously we didn't know each other that well, but I feel like you were so, like you and I just vived.

You're very down to earth. You're just like, you're an easy girl I can tell. You're just, you're one of our people. You're definitely, you're an easy breezy girl. You were so sweet when I met you. Guys, I want to take a moment to tell you about this extremely fashionable clothing line called loft.

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What is your casting story? How did you get casted on OC? Like, who did someone slide in your DMs? Like, what was your situation? No, because honestly, I didn't even have Instagram. I had a Facebook and I had a private Facebook. I had like 200-something people that I followed and followed me back. My, I had moved here and I had lived here for about a year and a half and then met after

about a year of living here. I met who is now like one of my best friends in the world, Tatiana. And she's from, her, Kyle's from Jersey. She's from New York. So we hit it off immediately. And we were like very fast friends because it was, we clicked super comfortable, East Coasters living on the West Coast,

but we didn't know everything about each other because we hadn't known each other that long. So we felt like we need each other that forever, but we didn't. And then we were hanging out, we both lived in Cotto, came to find, and Cotto's like, we're all the housewife stuff originated. And I'm such a jing-dong, honestly, Melissa.

When I was living in Cotto, I wanted to move there because my ex is lost. So I lived there, and we came here a week before we moved here. It was the first time it had ever been to California. And we went to dinner at his house, and I was like, I love this community. It was very flour California, and we went to dinner at his house, and I was like, I love this community. It was very flourished and like big trees, and all the houses were different,

and it reminded me of the East Coast, and that's why I wanted to live there. And so I went, I told my girlfriends from home, I was like, I'm moving to this place. It's called, Coderta Paza, and we're buying a house, whatever. And my friend Pam was like, oh, shit, you know, that's where the housewives live. And I was like, no, that's Cotto. And they're like, yeah, Cotto de casa.

And, you know, I don't even know how to say anything. So like, I'm on the highway, like calling my ex. I don't know where I am. I'm on the Jala. Like, I'm finished. And I don't, it's just not the way it is that I had no idea what was going on. So I'm like, oh, my God. And then I was like, I'm on La Jolla. Like I'm finished and I don't, it's just not the way it is that I had no idea what was going on.

So I'm like, oh my God. And then I thought that was exciting, you know, because I watched like the show was like a normal mom at home, whatever, like was a fan, you know? But like not a super fan. And I was like, oh, that would be so funny. My friends were like, oh, you're gonna be the next housewife. I'm like, can't have right.

I drive a minivan, you know, I'm not gonna clearly be the next housewife. We're just getting started. We're a young, hot pool. Like, I felt privileged just to even live there. Long story short, Tatiana was having this party. I remember it was for AgoCare. Do you remember that I was like, bite him? AgoCare, yes, yes.

Okay, I know it very well. Okay, so Tamra was like a spokesperson at the time for Advocay and she was friends with Tatiana. I didn't even know that. I was like, your friends with Tamara from the show? You know, I was like, this is so cool. She's like, yeah, I'm having a party for Advocay. You wanna come.

I was like, well, I don't really give a shit about your vitamins, but I'm one of them with Tamara, right? So that was like the highlight of my week. So I'm like, let's go to this party. I'm in for sitting with Tamara. I remember she spilled the tea about all the cast members that were on oh Yeah, she'll just go Yeah, so this is definitely ever she was like you should audition. I was like what's in audition? And I was like no, no, no, oh so you found you met Tamra first and then

Yeah, she didn't even do it. It was it was taught was auditioning because she was friends with her And I remember I I was like this is the best thing ever having this is so excited. I was just helping taught You know all we knew about the show was you have to have that background So we're like all right I've went to the store with her week. Well like stuff from home goods set up her background up We picked out like the best sequin dress she had set up her background up, we picked out like the best sequin dress she had. We're like, we're in a hell. She went, this is interview.

And then after that, it was like the Skype and then they push you through and you have to fill out an application and on the application, there was like a spot. If you know anybody else, do you think would be good or interested? She put my name in number and they call me and then two months later, I was on the show. You know, it was just like why it meant to be. Yeah, it really like, I, it must have been, you know, because it's just the way everything rolls out with life and you know, I obviously, I had a lot of issues already going on in my marriage. I did not offer up any of that to production because I was not trying to get I was like I'm not telling these people

My you know demons or whatever and a lot of this stuff But if my ex had an affair, but it had happened like a like a Eight months maybe ish prior to any of this happening and my point of view was we're trying to work through this This is where I'm at. I'm not gonna like sell my soul for this I tell them these things like that. I wasn't trying to work through this. This is where I'm at. I'm not gonna like sell my soul for this. I'm gonna like tell them these things like that. I wasn't trying to get on the show, you know, which is probably why I got on the show because I was just like being myself, you know?

Wait, wait, wait, wait. So you, your husband, you guys moved to OC for him for his job and then when he got to the OC is when the affair happened. He met her when you moved to the new state across the country. Mm-hmm. Yeah.

So I like pick up my whole life, moved across the country, to support my husband, you know, and start a life. And then like pretty shortly after that happened, and it like rocked my whole world. And so like also, honestly, I never thought I was gonna get on the show, but when I did audition for it,

and now all of a sudden I had these, you know how that process is, right? With the dancers and you keep like kind of leveling up. All of a sudden it was like these people saw who I was, like prior to all this depressing horrible stuff that was going on in my life that nobody knew about, you know, not even my own parents, like I didn't say anything to anyone. And it was kind of like, oh my god, it helped me get my confidence back. I could go as a plate, these people, they think of, they see me, they think I'm funny,

they think I'm great. And I was kind of like, wait, I am great, you know, I felt good. And that's why I wanted to keep doing it honestly because it just made me feel good at a time that I felt horrible, honestly, about everything else going on, private life. Well, of course, it's exciting. It's something new. It's like, when things are low,

this is like a high, well, this will be, it's almost like getting a new job after you have a breakup. It's like something new, just something exciting. I mean, joining housewives is an exciting thing to do. So I'm actually in shock. Oh, well, I get it now because I was in a salmon shock, you didn't just get your kids and move back to Long Island, but if you're gonna be on the OC housewives,

that makes sense why you didn't do that, right? Well, it was, yes, but prior to that, these were all things that I work. I was considering I remember I work. I actually graduated from Hofstra on Long Island and I worked for the medical school for years for Hofstra because I was going to go back for my masters and then I got pregnant with Nicholas. So I was like, I'm not, nope, not doing that no more. I'm just going to be a mom. You know, I'm going to pick a different lean and then kind of sacrifice that for that. But I had at one point called back some of the administrators and whatnot at the school because I was like I might have to move back. But you know what? It was horrible

decision to me because I'm like, right, if I do move back now what? Now he just stays here. He has this big fancy job. He's now got moving on with this chick and then what I go with my parents house on the island and raise my three kids and work and you know a job that's maybe fulfilling but not even you know even make that much money. It's academia and then what my kids don't have a relationship with they see their dad do a say year. It just I felt like because now I was here and invested. I was almost like stuck here, you know? So having this being, this opportunity, just kind of find me and I went for it

and somehow they picked me to do this was like, now I really think it was a kismet moment. I think it was like the universe giving that to me in a way, you know, because I made it. It was, it 100%. Like now that you give me the full story, you know, because it was 100%. Like now that you give me the full story, it was all meant to be. This is how it was supposed to happen.

You lost one thing, but then you got, you gained something else and it was all kind of meant to be. It just meant to be in the OC. That's the thing. I don't see. That's right. Yeah. Wait a second.

I was, you're right. I didn't tell anyone about it. And then it only came out the next year because I found out, because he had left the woman whatever, but then he was like back with her. And I didn't know that. And now I'm like, okay, there's certain things that I could, because I, you know, I was like,

nobody needs to know that. I don't need to hurt my children. And this marriage is over anyway. I don't need to discuss that, you know? And then protecting my kids. And then that's when I made the decision to be open and honest about it, because I'm it because there's a lot of things I can do to protect my family, my ex and my kids. But like, I'm not going to sit down on the couch with Andy and he'll be like,

oh, is your ex dating anyone? And he'll be like, oh, yeah, he's dating this great girl. But meanwhile, it's the girl that like destroyed my family. And like this is literally I'm out. Yeah. Right. Well, speaking of Andy, I know that you guys had like a little drama. No, long ago, right? Something was said or something on Watch It Happens Live about your home, but I have to say girl, the clap back was pretty amazing. I love the empowering clap back. I mean, so basically it was just, it was a question about your home and about like,

what was he saying? You could sell your house probably quicker than everyone else. Or would you send out a money? Oh, okay. Then everyone else would be like, yeah, I was like, it was just, you know what? The thing is, I love Andy, you know, we all love Andy, but when you're out of line, you're out of line. And sometimes when you're out of line, you know, you need to be put back.

And honestly, it's because I respect Andy that I felt that I could clap back to that in a honest but respectful way. And I knew that that was okay because I respect him and because he's a good person, you know, and so like, I wasn't surprised. I literally woke up. That was like the evening prior. I woke up to a text message from Andy apologizing. Right. Because he doesn't, you know, when he's in the moment and he's there, a lot of things get said on that show and he's not even half the time he's listening to what they're saying in his ear for the next thing. And he's not even really sure how he just answered it.

So I feel like he never really means any harm. And that is so him to text and say, like, I am so sorry. One day he said, somebody said something about my mom. I forget what it was, but it was like so not anything that bad, but it was like it could be taken the wrong way. I forgot. And he was like instantly like, oh my God, I did not even realize that it came off that way.

Oh, she was, I think she was the jack hole or something for something really silly, but she's like, my mom was so annoyed that she was the jack hole for saying something about like, she wanted me to be on only fans because Larsa sells her feet on only fans. And my mom texted me, was like, you need to be on only fans. And you have the most beautiful feet. And like, I guess he said that, that. And he was like, I didn't even realize that it was like the jack hole. Like we didn't even realize we did that.

And I believe that they don't. They're just, you know, it's all in good fun when you're on watch it up in his life most of the time. He was, yes. And he was just trying to get, you know, it's a part of our job is that we are as these wind groups of women, we're kind of petty to each other. And it is what it is. We take shots at each other.

And I think he was just trying to like, stoke the fire there a little bit. And I just don't, you know, I think it's got to be an incredibly hard job to walk that line. And sometimes you do cross it. I understand that. But I also understand that he's a human being, so I'm always gonna defend myself, but I try to do it in a respectful manner because I want the ending to be resolution. Yeah, well that was nice. So you guys are good now. You're all cleared up. Everything's all good with you and Andy. We're good. Yes, it that was nice. So you guys are good now. You're all cleared up. Everything's all good with you and Andy.

We're a guy. Yes, it was all good. I was a little uncomfortable for me at Rob O'Conn since the first time I had saw him. And I was like, oh, also, you know, when you put this stuff out there, you don't know what's going to, I was just clearing my conscience.

I was like, I just have to say this for me, you know? And I didn't realize it was going to catch fire like that. So then it's like, once it says you're just kind of like, woo, like, and also you don't want to like meet your boss outside, you know, or like, you know, nobody was like piss off Andy. But of course I had to do it, you know, and he was a little uncomfortable with what I said

a whole lot and then we were like all good. So I was like, okay, good. But yes. Wait, and for my listeners who are listening and do not know how she reacted, you literally said like, I'm a single mom and I'm one of the only ones on the show that owns a home. Correct. I think.

Yeah, 100%. Yeah, and I'm, and I'm also like 20 years younger than everybody else. You know, but how old are you? Do you mind me asking? I'm, no, it's okay. I'm 39. Okay. Yeah.

So yeah, you're definitely 33. Right. I started. Yeah, I started at 31 insane. But yes, you're like a you're not even like an adult yet. I feel like well, no, I start right when I right at 31, I wasn't to handle this and to have three little babies under the age of four, I was like, what am I doing? I've, I don't only been married for like four or five years. I just felt like I, I didn't have all the right answers then and I'm such a different person right now because I've been on the show for 14 years.

Like, then I was, then I was then, do you know what I mean? It's just like 13, go on 14 years. Yeah. So it's like, it's crazy. That is, it's wild. 14 years, yeah. So it's like, it's crazy. It is, it's wild. 14 years, I can't even imagine. Could you imagine how many years back and forth, like it's been, I think I got on this show in.

That was just a magic. Yeah, it's, it's, it's, it's found here in those streets, you know, in the streets of Jersey. For four in years. Yeah, it's been a lot. And finally, I've gotten to a place. I can honestly tell you Gina, I've gotten to Jersey. For four years. Yeah. Yeah. It's been a lot. And finally, I've gotten to a place. I can honestly tell you, Gina, I've gotten to a place where I'm just like, I'm so like chill

about it now. I'm just like, it is what it is. I don't stress anymore. I don't worry about like what haters say. I don't worry about what, you know, the fam thinks. I don't worry about like, I just do me and what I know I can sleep with at night and live with at night. And like, even with a girlfriend,

it's like going back and forth with the relationships on the show, it just gets easier and easier for me every year to kind of just own my truth. I always, and I feel like you'll feel the same way. Every season, it'll just get easier to just be you, you know? Yeah, I think it's really hard at first to like carve your path out. And also like it takes a couple of years for them to also like fully flesh out your character on the show.

So it's easy for people to also scrutinize at the beginning before they really know you. And then once you're in a couple of seasons, and it's even the small stuff that they start to put in, even if it's things that you do that are a little quirky or weird, but people get to know you more at that point, and it shows more of who you are. And so then I think you get more comfortable after a while with what's being,

you get more comfortable that people kind of understand you and see you and see your perspective perspective and you don't feel like you have to work as hard to get people to see that or like it's not as scary anymore than if you have an argument or somebody that you're going to be like it's like whatever this is who I am this is my perspective and this is my deal and take it or leave it and you do you get numb to the haters, you get numb to all, I mean, there's still a lot of people. Oh, for sure. You hate you, you know, so it is getting better. You get less, at first, it's like all consuming and you obsess about all aspects of it and as it goes on, like some problems become new problems, but a lot of the problems that were problems just aren't even problems anymore. It doesn't consume your whole world, which is healthy. It's good. For sure. I always giggle at the haters too, because it's like they'll say things like,

oh, you know, she's boring or she's in belong. We don't want to watch her. Take her off the show. And I'm like, well, why is every single tweet and every single thing on your timeline about me or a picture of me or a horrible picture of me? or whatever you can find that day to say about me. If I'm so boring, then stop thinking about me. Think about me. You're the think about your queen, or whoever you love, stop talking about me. If it's, you know what I'm saying?

So it's like, it's kind of like, you really can't call them a haters, because they're actually like, you know, they're in there. They're watching. They're definitely. They're giving you. And they're giving you shot. And if they sat next to you tomorrow, they would be up here as soon as you would be

the best thing to place broad. And they would like tell everybody about it for four months. So and it would totally change their perspective of who you are. They actually even ever met you in person. So it like none of that even matters honestly. And honestly, I get the boring thing too a lot. And I'm like, whatever I am, kind of boring, but that's relatable.

And so you don't realize how many people you're actually affecting in a positive way for just being what they call boring, but what is really relatable. And there's something to be sensed. There's a lean, but what is really relatable, you know, and there's something to be sensed. Like there's a, there's a lane, like this is an ensemble cast, there's a lane for everybody. And if you have seven table flippers, that's not a show, you know, you need to have a course not. The one, the sensational characters, whatever, that's a part of it. But then you also need to have

people that are like more substance on the show, you know, and are there just to share their life and their family dynamic that other people can put on the show and say, hey, that's my family dynamic, or oh, I was struggling with that a little bit. It doesn't have to be, everything doesn't have to be an affair

and a sensational thing. Some, you know, just showcasing your marriage if you have a little problem here or there. There was something I remember with Joe, you had a little pain point in your marriage and you chose to share it. I don't even honestly remember what it was, Melissa, but I remember that you guys felt like, wow, like that's awesome that you guys shared that because it was such a normal, and you didn't have to share it, but you did such a normal thing.

And that's the good stuff that's like so many more people out there that you touched, but they're just not on the internet, you know? Oh, of course. Yeah, I get so many, like DMs about all of the family stuff, like within Joe and my kids and just like envy becoming a business owner, like that, all that kind of stuff is where my fans are at, right? And that they relate to me and they want to talk to me about.

And just, that's what, it's true. It's an ensemble cast for all of these franchises. And it really is what makes the show go around. You have to have all aspects. You also have to have the one girl that's saying what you're thinking when you're sitting on the couch watching, right? So it's like, yeah, it's all about who can you relate to. watching, right? So it's like, yeah, it's all about who can you relate to.

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But like, like, what do you think about the way the last season ended? Like, where do your relationships stand right now with everyone that I'm curious about that? Well, I don't know if you saw on like our Instagrams, but we did actually, we were all actually able to meet up for a holiday dinner. The, the full cast from last year and still I just saw that recently. Yes, it was very recently. It was a couple weeks ago. I give Heather a lot of credit because Heather, no matter what, even if even during the time when it was like everybody was like bad at Heather, Heather is so good at always being like,

fuck it, I'm still going to be like the connector. And she just doesn't care. And so she's always putting us on like, fuck it, I'm still gonna be like the connector and she just doesn't care. And so she's always putting us on like a group text even if it's super awkward with some people and it aren't talking and she's like, okay girls, why don't we get in together for the holiday? I think we should have a holiday dinner and I love her for that. But also it's like sometimes maybe we just shouldn't all get together. I mean, it's good that we were all sitting at a table, but I'll be honest. It was literally like, there were two different dinners going on. It was basically, it felt like it was me, Tamara, Emily and Heather at one table

and then Taylor, Jen and, um, Shannon at the other table. It was very awkward. It was like awkward as fuck. I can totally picture it. But you know, I can appreciate that Heather does that because it's actually very professional. And what she's trying to do there, which is something that I do appreciate,

she's trying to be like, listen, we're a team guys, we're all rooting for the same team, we're all trying to have the same success on the same show, right? So like even though we have our problems, let's get the work team. We're all trying to have the same success on the same show, right? So like, even though we have our problems, let's get the work team back together. And like, I do appreciate that. I think she's onto something there. And I do think it's smart, even though that's what ends up happening because we've had, we just recently, and I won't say who, but one of our cast members started a group text with all of us in it. was like Happy Thanksgiving everyone and we were all like whoa like everyone's it was just a weird thing

And you know I text back in the group text and said happy things giving it But it was just awkward and weird and then like some of the other cast members will call me like why did she put us all together? It's weird, but I do appreciate it. You know, it's like it gets a little weird. Yeah, I think it's such a nice thing. It's in the right spirit. And like you said, it's very professional. It's something we should be doing. And we should have some level of camaraderie

about our own franchise. For sure. What about Tamara? Like, I know Tamara's a force to be reckoned with. Are you, how do you get along with Tamara? What's your situation with her? Like, was it, like like when she comes back on, she kind of like takes over the room.

Yeah, but like honestly, I never wanted her to go. Like when she did, I remember calling up Alex like who's the owner of like our production company and being like, I don't get it, I don't like it, I don't want it because you know, Tamra lover or hater, she does carry a lot of weight for everybody. And also being brand new, like, what are we going to do without her? You know? It's like kind of my perspective on it. And then I do think it could have worked.

But like then the casting never made real sense. So then I never thought in a million years they were going to bring her back. And yeah, there was like a certain level of like why are they doing that when they did bring her back only because then she started her own podcast. She was like talking crap about us for like two years while she was off the show. So I'm like, mmm, that feels crappy, you know, but at the end of the day, I also understand that like Tamra was really burned by the whole thing. And I know also like she, she, you know, it's a hard thing because it's like, you have this job, your need to feel so apart of it. We're a family, a Bravo family. And then one day you wake up and your head gets chopped off, right? And she's like one of the original ones who like help make this whole thing what it is.

So I sympathize with that. And honestly, I just don't care. I don't like hanging on to things. I just don't care enough to care about you know. For nothing she said was really that bad. It was all like pretty predictable. And I honestly just thought it would be better to have her back than not to have her.

I've always gotten along with camera. Sometimes we'll get into a bit of nothing major and I've always gotten along with her. But I we'll get into a bit of nothing major and I've always gotten along with her, but I know Tamra's very good at this. She's excellent at it. She's great at it all. And she's smart, you know, and she navigates through all of this incredibly

freaking well and I respect that. And I also am careful with that. So, yes. You know, well that. So, yes. Well, that's smart. That's smart. I know she, Tamara comes in and she does exactly whatever it is that she has to do.

You know, and I feel like the viewers know that too. Yeah. Wait, what about, I have to ask you about this. Alexis Bolino, is this like, what am I hearing? It's, first of all, are you friendly with her? Because she was before you, right? You were not ever on the show with her. No, never.

And I had never met her. And then I think like just at Bravo Con, you know, how they came back on the stage or whatever, I then at that after party that was happening at NBC after party, I met her and said hi to her, but I've never interacted with her beyond that. And I, so I don't really know, but I know Heather's very her beyond that. And I, so I don't really know, but I know Heather's very friendly with her and so is Emily. And they say nothing but nice stuff

about her. Um, but, you know, and as I, I don't know anything definite, but I have a feeling she, we're gonna see her for this. Really. And I'm really. I think that's already just hearing it. I mean, and obviously everything's scrolling around as a very recently, that's very interesting. So, I mean, if nothing else, it's extremely entertaining. And I like meeting new people. Like I like when new people come in.

You do. Well, are you here for the way, like Denise Richards came back this past week? Did you see that on Beverly Hills? Yeah, I mean, I didn't for the way, like Denise Richards came back this past week? Did you see that on Beverly Hills? Yeah, I mean, I didn't watch the full thing, but I've watched like all the clips, and I'm definitely here for that because I think that is amazing. Like, that is definitely, I mean, that's Annie's shift, in my opinion, right there. That is like the amount of memes that are provided from that one scene alone is goals, right?

That should be rewarded. I have no idea what that is. I also understand what it's like to walk into these situations, how scary they could be. And once you remove from it for a while and then you coming back for something, I have no idea what that feels like. So like I can understand if she had like a couple cocktails before walking into that. Right. It's kind of scary, you know, But yeah, I'm here for everybody they sprinkle in. I always think it's funny and fun. Like, it was cool to have Taylor on for a year. She's a character and, you know, they just add some extra entertainment and spice.

And it's cool for me because like someone like Alexis Blino is somebody from the past, but I've never met her. So it is like cool for the viewers and the fans. And I think it's neat to see like old cast members interact with new cast members. I'm excited for it. Like I like that. And I have obviously zero loyalty to Shannon.

So like I don't really care who Alexis is dating or not dating. I know I was reading all of that too. I'm actually here for it. I love when they bring back like an old school cast member. And I love that there's girls that she's never met before. Like you said, I just think it would be. Yeah.

I'm here for even the Denise thing. Like, like thank you, you're welcome. Like I just can't, like she was, I just, she, I loved the whole and I can tell that she probably was stressed out work like before she went. She probably had a couple, which is normal, right? And then when you get there and it's like, you're kind of thrown into the lion's den

because everyone's so excited that you're in the room, including the producers. So like, you feel the heat's on you and you just get stressed out. That's how, that's the energy I was getting from Denise, just like, oh, this is gonna be a lot. And like, I need to be prepared for this. And you know, she actually made that whole episode.

She really did. And now that you say that, Denise's energy coming back in that scene is the exact same energy as Tamara, the first half of last season. Because she was the same thing. It was a lot of pressure on her to come back. Right. And it needed to be good. And you know, she hadn't done it in a while. And I was so shocked to see Tamer when she first came back. She was actually like nervous a little bit. And I've

never seen her like that. So that was like totally new. But then as a result, she was like over drinking because it was, it was, it was, it's like that Denise factor. That's what you get. And like if you only get Denise for 10 minutes, you're gonna show every minute of that. We're like with Tamra, you were also then seeing her being, you know, normal during the day or filming with Eddie or sober,

or whatever, so it wasn't like so crazy, but that's a big part of why I think Tamra came in so hot because she was like, compensate being by like drinking because like it was stressful. Of course, 100 rates and it's obvious that that's what's happened. And I get it. I'm sorry. I get it girl. So it is. I get it. All right. Wait, last question I have for you about the

OC. Really quick. Do you think it's anyone's last season? Like, are you getting the vibe that it's anybody's last season? Or that anybody might not come back? No, I'm not getting that vibe. I'm not getting that vibe. I think that what happened last season worked well. I think that since, honestly, and also since I've been on this show,

last season is the first season that I was actually like, oh, that was good. And I felt like we were earning our keep as a franchise, you know, and that feels really good. So I can't imagine them wanting to make a change or a shift when you're coming off of something that for the first time in five seasons since I've been a part of it, seems to work.

I have to be honest, I think it's the best it's been in a long time. And I think you guys have it down perfectly right now. And if it's up to me, nothing changes. You guys stay and maybe throw a little Alexis in just for a little like and I would love. Oh, yeah. Yes.

Yeah, I would love another news. I would love somebody also like a little bit. I feel bad saying this because it's really not. I don't try. I never bring up like the age thing or whatever, but you, there is certain, even with Emily and Emily is literally one of my best friends in the world, but she's a little bit older than me. And so like her things that she like geeks out on are just a little bit different than like the things that I geek out on. And I just want somebody more my age

so that they get my journal and my, it's the generational thing. And like everybody has that except me. So like I would love that. 1,000%. I totally get it because that was me for a very long time on the show. Like a lot of the cast members are still 10

and 12 years older than me as well, to be honest. So it was nice when they brought on. I think it was Jen Aiden who's only like a year 12 years older than me as well, to be honest. So it was nice when they brought on. I think it was Jenna Aiden who's only like a year or two older than me. So it was like, all right, at least I had, you know, someone around that was like in my generation that I could like go back and it's true. Her and I, as much as we don't get along, we love the same music. We both listen to R&B. Like we do vibe the same because we're from the same, you know, the same time frame,

if that makes any sense, right? So... No, totally. It was little jokes like, Mika, more enjoyable as you go on, and honestly, if you weren't on the show, you probably would get along with Jennie and, you know... If it weren't for, right, like certain things on the TV show. Yeah, that, but... Yeah. Anyway, Gina, thank certain certain things and the TV show. Yeah, but yeah. Anyway, Gina, thank you so much for being here today. I'm so happy that my listeners got to like meet you a little bit better.

I hung out with you a little bit at BravoCon. And I thought you were awesome. I think you're really great. I wish you all the best with family. I know you're starting real estate. You have a podcast too. Guys, be sure to check out Gina's podcast, Orange Country. It's out every Wednesday. Wait, tell me about it a little bit.

So it's me and I have a co-host sheen Mac and Ellie. He's a heavy hitter in the country music. We're all these written like over 50 number one hits. He also co-roaked shocked, which is on Broadway in Manhattan right now. Wow. And he's also just hysterical. And we just, you know, same as this, we just get together and the Broadway in Manhattan right now. Wow. And he's also just hysterical. And we just, you know, same as this, we just get together and we different topics, parenting, sobriety, social media, all this stuff we have on it's pretty good guess. We had on Just Detailer Ferguson recently.

Some pretty cool memories. You know, sprinkle in a little housewives, you know, of course. And we just have fun. So, yeah, it's been, that's been a good experience. And I'm excited to keep going with it for sure. Awesome. I'm gonna have to come jump on your podcast next. We'll have to come 100%. Yeah. Let's, let's do that next and let me know when you come out to the East Coast, because we'll definitely meet up for a drink out here in, in New York. Yeah. Come'll come to Jersey.

I'll make you pasta. Come over for the day. I want to see you pasta in Jersey. Yes, for sure. All right, Gina, thank you so much. And I hope to see you soon. Thanks for coming on. OK, thanks, Melissa.

It's just so fun. Let's do it! Oh! No! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh!

Oh! Yeah! Yeah! So I started a podcast to digest all that is going on and gave you an opportunity to just sit back and soak it all in the Perez Hilton podcast We talk trending topics cultural reset and in case you miss it So if this sounds like your world your cup of tea give my podcast and listen the Perez Hilton podcast available Wherever you get your podcasts Hold on to your jingle bells. Pluto TV has all your holiday favorites for free or ever you get your podcasts. Pluto TV app on all your favorite devices and start streaming holiday favorites on live channels and on demand.

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