Podcast Summary: "Surviving a Serial Killer: The Story of Lois Rinna"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Let's Not Talk About The Husband
• Hosts: Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin
• Episode: Surviving a Serial Killer: The Story of Lois Rinna
• Release Date: March 28, 2025

Introduction

In this emotionally charged episode of "Let's Not Talk About The Husband," hosts Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin delve into a deeply personal and harrowing family story—the survival of Lisa's mother, Lois Rinna, from a brutal attack by a serial killer. The conversation seamlessly transitions from light-hearted topics to profound discussions about trauma, parenting, and resilience.

The Attack on Lois Rinna

Details of the Incident:

Lisa Rinna recounts the traumatic event when her mother, Lois, was brutally attacked by a serial killer named David Carpenter. The incident occurred when Lois was 30 years old in the Presidio area of San Francisco.

• [16:25] Lisa Rinna: "The Hillside Strangler. No, Hillside Killer."

The Attack:

Launched as an attack by a trusted colleague, Carpenter offered Lois a ride under the guise of showing her his new baby. Initially sympathetic due to her co-worker's stutter, Lois sensed something was amiss when Carpenter began speaking fluently.

• [19:44] Lisa Rinna: "She knew. He was like, Lois, something comes over me. I can't help it."

As they drove into a deserted area of the Presidio, Carpenter's demeanor shifted. He pulled a knife from the glove box and violently attacked Lois, tearing her fingers while she tried to defend herself.

• [22:14] Harry Hamlin: "Is it night?"
• [22:15] Lisa Rinna: "It's morning."

Just as Carpenter intensified his assault with a hammer, a military policeman (MP) intervened, shooting Carpenter in the stomach and saving Lois's life.

Survival and Aftermath:

Despite the severe injuries, Lois survived the attack, spending three months in the hospital recovering. The ordeal led Lisa and her future husband Harry to bond over the shared trauma, eventually marrying a few months after the attack—a relationship formed through a "trauma bond."

• [24:43] Lisa Rinna: "He was convicted. Plea deal for six years."

Impact on Lisa Rinna's Life

Family Trauma and Resilience:

Lisa opens up about the lasting effects of her mother's attack and the environment in which she was raised. Growing up in a highly protective and fear-based household, Lisa discusses how these early experiences shaped her personality and coping mechanisms.

• [27:10] Lisa Rinna: "I have definite trauma from birth through all of it."

Her Mother's Strength:

Lois Rinna is portrayed as a beacon of resilience. Despite the trauma, Lois remained a positive and empathetic presence in the family. Later in life, a stroke altered her demeanor further, stripping away her judgmental and fearful traits, leading to a "rebirth" that Lisa cherishes.

• [31:07] Harry Hamlin: "It's truly amazing when you think about how fucked up I am."

Assisted Suicide:

The conversation also touches on the difficult decision to assist in her father's transition through assisted suicide in Oregon. Lisa describes the serene yet surreal process of preparing him for his final moments, underscored by familial love and the complexity of supporting a loved one's end-of-life choices.

• [34:00] Harry Hamlin: "We might as well just tell the story, because if anyone's going through this right now, you know, yeah, for sure it could help."

Parenting and Overcoming Adversity

Raising Resilient Children:

Both Lisa and Harry reflect on their parenting styles, emphasizing independence and resilience. They discuss methods like Ferberizing to encourage self-soothing in their children, balancing firmness with support to foster responsible and grounded adults.

• [47:37] Harry Hamlin: "Until we Ferberized them. You know, that's another thing. I don't know if they still do that. Is that still a thing?"

Shared Experiences and Growth:

The episode highlights how shared traumatic experiences can strengthen familial bonds and foster a unique understanding between partners. Lisa credits her mother's strength and the family's collective resilience for their ability to navigate life's challenges without succumbing to dysfunction.

• [33:42] Harry Hamlin: "That's true. And our kids loved her so much."

Closing Reflections

Memorializing Lois Rinna:

Lisa and Harry honor Lois Rinna's memory by sharing her story, ensuring that her strength and the lessons learned from her survival continue to inspire their listeners. They express gratitude for her influence and the stability she provided amidst chaos.

• [34:03] Harry Hamlin: "You were very lucky to have them as parents. You really were."

Encouraging Open Conversations:

The hosts advocate for open discussions about trauma, resilience, and family dynamics, recognizing the importance of sharing personal stories to aid others facing similar struggles.

• [36:28] Lisa Rinna: "We should just tell the story, because if anyone's going through this right now, you know, yeah, for sure it could help."

Notable Quotes

• [19:45] Lisa Rinna: "See how we learned."
• [25:17] Harry Hamlin: "Well, that sounds to me like maybe they're gonna do it now."
• [33:09] Harry Hamlin: "There was a stigma about it if you went to therapy."
• [34:20] Harry Hamlin: "So you were very lucky to have them as parents."
• [41:08] Harry Hamlin: "Well, that's a pretty major moment."
• [43:14] Harry Hamlin: "Belt, take your pants down, bend over."

Conclusion

"Surviving a Serial Killer: The Story of Lois Rinna" serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and overcome unimaginable trauma. Through candid conversations, Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin offer listeners an intimate glimpse into their lives, emphasizing the importance of resilience, supportive relationships, and open dialogue in the face of adversity. This episode not only honors Lois Rinna's survival but also provides valuable insights into navigating personal and familial challenges with strength and grace.

Stay Connected:

• Instagram: LisaRinna
• TikTok: @sirinnaofficial
• Harry Hamlin on Instagram: @aryrhamlin

Tune in every Friday for new episodes of "Let's Not Talk About The Husband," blending humor and heart in every conversation.