Podcast Summary: "The Story of Harry Hamlin" – Let's Not Talk About The Husband

Podcast Information:

• Title: Let's Not Talk About The Husband
• Hosts: Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin
• Release Date: April 25, 2025
• Episode Title: The Story of Harry Hamlin

1. Introduction

In this emotionally charged episode of Let's Not Talk About The Husband, Harry Hamlin opens up about his personal history, delving deep into his family's intricate dynamics, his father's remarkable achievements, and the challenges he faced growing up. Hosted alongside his wife, Lisa Rinna, the episode balances heartfelt storytelling with moments of levity, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into Harry's life beyond the Hollywood facade.

2. Harry Hamlin's Family Background and Father's Rocket Science

Harry begins by recounting his father's illustrious career as a rocket scientist. His father’s expertise led to the development of the Saturn V rocket, a monumental achievement in space exploration.

• Harry Hamlin [04:15]: "This was the Saturn V rocket, my daddy's rocket... These engines on the bottom, they're called the F1 engines. They evolved out of an engine that my dad worked on when he was at NASA."

He contrasts his father's work with modern space tourism ventures, highlighting the vast differences in purpose and technology.

• Harry Hamlin [05:07]: "The Saturn V rocket is one. Up until now, it's the biggest rocket that was ever built."

3. Family Dysfunction and Substance Abuse

Despite his father's professional success, Harry's family life was plagued by dysfunction and substance abuse. Both of his brothers succumbed to alcoholism and smoking, leading to their premature deaths.

• Harry Hamlin [03:10]: "I'm the last man standing in my family. Both of my brothers checked out. They had a lifestyle that was not too conducive to long life..."

He poignantly shares the impact of these losses on his upbringing and mental health.

• Harry Hamlin [17:10]: "They had many cocktails at night... I would crawl up into my bed and hear them screaming at each other all night long."

4. Harry's Personal Struggles and Turning Point

Harry reflects on his own challenges, including poor academic performance and behavioral issues during his youth. A pivotal moment occurred at a summer camp where a counselor's intervention redirected his path.

• Harry Hamlin [24:18]: "He grabbed me by the neck, took me behind the tent, and beat the shit out of me... he saved my life."

This experience, combined with his pursuit of a psychology degree, enabled Harry to understand and navigate his tumultuous family environment better than his siblings.

• Harry Hamlin [27:05]: "Studying psychology probably helped me to understand the human condition a little bit better than my brothers did."

5. Meeting Lisa Rinna and Building Their Relationship

Harry credits Lisa for being the cornerstone of his transformation. Their meeting and subsequent marriage provided him with the stability and support he desperately needed.

• Harry Hamlin [28:53]: "Meeting you was the whole thing. You saved my life."

Their partnership is portrayed as a beacon of hope and resilience amidst personal and familial adversities.

6. Insights on Parenting and Raising Kids

The couple discusses their approaches to parenting, influenced by their own challenging upbringings. They emphasize the importance of open communication and emotional support, something they found lacking in their own families.

• Harry Hamlin [27:44]: "I did interventions on both of them. You know, alcoholic interventions."

They reflect on their children's upbringing, striving to break the cycle of dysfunction and provide a nurturing environment.

7. Anecdotes and Personal Stories

Throughout the episode, Harry shares various personal anecdotes that shed light on his character and life experiences. Notably, he recounts the story of his mother’s remains and the emotional journey he undertook to lay her to rest with dignity.

• Harry Hamlin [40:21]: "I transferred her from the Penny's bag into a Tommy Hilfiger bag. Because of the red, white, and blue colors. I thought maybe she would feel more comfortable."

These stories not only highlight his resilience but also his deep-seated need for closure and understanding of his past.

8. Conclusion

In closing, Harry and Lisa reflect on the significance of sharing their stories through the podcast. They acknowledge the therapeutic aspect of their conversations and the importance of vulnerability in strengthening their bond.

• Lisa Rinna [50:36]: "Wow, what a podcast today. It's like therapy almost, isn't it?"
• Harry Hamlin [50:45]: "I guess so. I mean, we're getting to know each other after 30 years, some odd years."

The episode serves as a testament to their enduring relationship, resilience in the face of adversity, and the healing power of shared narratives.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Harry Hamlin [04:40]: "He was tapped by the government because his arm was cut off during the Second World War. He was 4F, couldn't go to the war, so he went to work for Bell Labs..."

• Harry Hamlin [12:27]: "He ended up building the fastest boat in the world. He won the world speed record in 1939 for going like 89 point something miles per hour."

• Harry Hamlin [17:10]: "As soon as he got out, he went to a bar, you know, that kind of thing."

• Harry Hamlin [24:03]: "He saved my life. Seriously, wherever you are, I hope you find me, because that guy straightened me out."

• Harry Hamlin [30:43]: "Feelings and emotions are the most critical things that we have in our lives. They're our guideposts."

• Harry Hamlin [40:51]: "And then I bought a little tape recorder with that. I drove her all the way up to Twin Falls..."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Let's Not Talk About The Husband offers a profound exploration of Harry Hamlin's life, marked by triumphs, traumas, and transformation. Through candid conversations, Harry and Lisa provide listeners with a raw and authentic portrayal of navigating personal hardships, the complexities of family relationships, and the enduring strength of love and partnership.