Podcast Title: Jeff Lewis Has Issues
Episode: Vicki Gunvalson & Patti Stanger: Parasites & Trophy Wives
Host: SiriusXM - Jeff Lewis
Release Date: August 6, 2025

Episode Summary

In this riveting episode of "Jeff Lewis Has Issues," host Jeff Lewis engages in an unfiltered and candid conversation with longtime personalities Vicki Gunvalson and Patti Stanger. The trio delves deep into personal challenges, health struggles, the tumultuous world of reality TV, and the complexities of maintaining luxurious lifestyles. Interspersed with humor and heartfelt moments, the episode offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the lives of these reality TV veterans.

1. Jeff Lewis’s New Condo and the Hollywood Versailles Lifestyle

Jeff Lewis kicks off the conversation by sharing exciting news about his recent move into a new condo, embracing what he describes as the "Hollywood Versailles lifestyle."

• Luxury Amenities: Jeff highlights the upscale features of his new residence, including valet parking, a doorman, a pool, and a state-of-the-art gym.

  Patti Stanger [01:28]: "I love the elevators, the doorman. There's someone to take my packages up. It was just really luxurious."

• Social Invitations: Patti extends an open invitation to his new abode, emphasizing the convenience and luxury of not having to handle parking themselves.

  Patti Stanger [01:39]: "If you guys want to come over, you don't have to park yourself."

Shane, Jeff's son, expresses his eagerness to visit the new condo, adding a familial warmth to the discussion.

2. The Traumatic Fourth of July Bike Ride Incident

A significant portion of the episode recounts a harrowing incident that occurred during a Fourth of July bike ride, which swiftly turned from a celebratory outing to a traumatic experience.

• The Incident: Vicki describes being on a tandem bike ride with her partner, Mike, when they were unexpectedly attacked with what she initially refers to as a "slingshot" but later humorously admits might have been water balloons.

  Vicki Gunvalson [04:30]: "It was like the water was coming at us from all sides. We were just trying to get through."

• Physical Injuries: Vicki recounts sustaining a bruise near her ear, a vulnerable area due to previous surgeries.

  Vicki Gunvalson [05:33]: "It was on my right ear, which I've had eight surgeries on. So this whole side of my head is not normal."

• Emotional Impact: The attack left the group traumatized, fostering feelings of fear and distrust towards those orchestrating such events.

  Vicki Gunvalson [07:43]: "We were traumatized. We were all like, that was a buzz kill."

Jeff reflects on his role during the incident, noting how he shielded Vicki and managed to navigate the situation despite the chaos.

3. Vicki Gunvalson’s Health Concerns: Parasites and Colonics

Following the traumatic event, Vicki opens up about ongoing health issues, revealing a battle with parasites believed to have been contracted during a trip to Morocco.

• Symptoms and Diagnosis:

  Vicki Gunvalson [24:29]: "I'm doing colonics now. Now even Michael said the other day, you are not the same since you've been back from Morocco."

• Treatment Efforts: Vicki discusses the rigorous regimen she's adhering to, including colonics and medication, yet she remains frustrated with persistent symptoms.

  Vicki Gunvalson [25:34]: "I'm loaded with parasites in my gut. I knew something was wrong."

• Emotional Strain: The health struggles add another layer of stress, compounded by her responsibilities and commitments.

  Vicki Gunvalson [25:50]: "I think he's been growing a long time."

Jeff and Shane interject with supportive and humorous remarks, lightening the heavy topic while acknowledging Vicki's resilience.

4. Critique of Real Housewives of Orange County

The trio shifts focus to discuss their perspectives on the contemporary landscape of "Real Housewives of Orange County."

• Storyline Authenticity: They express skepticism about the authenticity of current storylines, suggesting that the show relies heavily on manufactured drama rather than genuine experiences.

  Vicki Gunvalson [20:43]: "They have no storyline. So then you have to make things up. You got to create shit."

• Character Development: There's a critical take on the portrayal of "trophy wives," questioning their purpose beyond creating conflict and drama.

  Shane [20:33]: "Their purpose in business is to rile people up and, like, start drama."

• Ratings and Longevity: The conversation touches upon declining ratings and the recyclability of characters to maintain viewer interest.

  Shane [19:01]: "Next Gen has really good ratings, but I don't care. I'm excited for you could say."

Vicki reminisces about the show's peak popularity and laments its current direction, yearning for more authentic and inspirational narratives.

5. Personal Life, Health, and Light-hearted Moments

Amidst serious discussions, the episode is peppered with humorous and light-hearted segments that showcase the camaraderie and playful dynamics among the guests.

• Live Reading of Titanic Script: In a delightful interlude, Jeff organizes a live reading of a "Titanic" script, with Vicki and Patti enthusiastically participating.

  Jeff Lewis [32:39]: "Vicki, you'll be reading for the part of Jack and Patti, you'll be reading for Rose. Are you ready ladies?"

  Vicki Gunvalson [32:40]: "Let's go."

  The heartfelt performance garners praise from all participants, highlighting their acting chops and genuine emotions.

• Sauna and Colonics Discussion: Vicki humorously details her experiences with infrared saunas and colonics, blending health advice with personal anecdotes.

  Vicki Gunvalson [37:00]: "So I clean it. You can do vinegar and water. You can do the Young Living clean that."

• Cooking Mishaps: Vicki shares a funny story about mistakenly leaving chocolate chip cookies out, leading to her husband Mike devouring them all during Christmas.

  Vicki Gunvalson [40:24]: "They're both Chanel, but they were different. One had sequins, one didn't. And they were both vintage."

These moments provide a balanced mix of humor and vulnerability, creating a relatable and engaging narrative.

6. Financial and Business Ventures

The discussion takes a professional turn as Jeff introduces his plans to venture into the insurance industry, seeking Vicki's expertise.

• COTO Insurance Services:

  Vicki Gunvalson [48:27]: "I do retirement planning. So people over age 55, they come to me. I do women's seminars."

• Business Collaboration: Jeff expresses his intention to partner with Vicki, envisioning a streamlined insurance agency targeting specific demographics.

  Jeff Lewis [47:17]: "I need help with everything. Life insurance, auto insurance, home insurance, liability insurance."

Vicki outlines the comprehensive services offered by COTO Insurance, emphasizing personalized financial planning and retirement solutions.

7. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

As the episode draws to a close, the guests reflect on their discussions, sharing final thoughts and expressing mutual support.

• Handling Personal Struggles: Vicki candidly talks about her ongoing health battles, encouraging listeners to prioritize their well-being.

  Vicki Gunvalson [50:01]: "Don't need to ask. It's a yes. That is so weird. I have to sit in there and think about it and then a pellet comes out."

• Encouragement and Humor: The group wraps up with humorous banter about parasites and personal quirks, leaving listeners with a blend of laughter and empathy.

  Patti Stanger [50:15]: "What a lie full of shit."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Patti Stanger: "I love the elevators, the doorman. There's someone to take my packages up. It was just really luxurious."
  [01:28]

• Vicki Gunvalson: "It was on my right ear, which I've had eight surgeries on. So this whole side of my head is not normal."
  [05:33]

• Vicki Gunvalson: "They have no storyline. So then you have to make things up. You got to create shit."
  [20:43]

• Shane: "Their purpose in business is to rile people up and, like, start drama."
  [20:33]

• Jeff Lewis: "I need help with everything. Life insurance, auto insurance, home insurance, liability insurance."
  [47:17]

• Vicki Gunvalson: "I do retirement planning. So people over age 55, they come to me. I do women's seminars."
  [48:27]

• Vicki Gunvalson: "I have to sit in there and think about it and then a pellet comes out."
  [50:01]

Conclusion

This episode of "Jeff Lewis Has Issues" masterfully intertwines serious discussions about personal trauma and health with lighter, humorous moments, offering a well-rounded and engaging narrative. Jeff Lewis, along with Vicki Gunvalson and Patti Stanger, provides listeners with an authentic look into their lives, tackling both their struggles and triumphs with honesty and wit. Whether discussing the highs of a new luxurious lifestyle or the lows of unexpected health issues, the trio ensures a captivating and relatable experience for their audience.