Long Winded with Gabby Windey – Episode: Love Island's Iris
Release Date: July 17, 2025
Host: Gabby Windey
Guest: Iris Kendall, Third Runner-Up on Love Island
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Long Winded with Gabby Windey, host Gabby Windey sits down with Iris Kendall, the third runner-up from the popular reality TV show Love Island. The conversation delves deep into Iris's experiences on the show, her personal growth, and her post-villa life, all while maintaining the show's signature blend of humor and heart.
Welcome Back and Initial Impressions
Gabby kicks off the conversation by warmly welcoming Iris, expressing excitement about her return home to Los Angeles.
Gabby [00:10]: "I'll throw in a blur. I'm so excited to talk to you."
Iris [00:15]: "I'm so excited to be home."
Iris shares her enthusiasm about being back, emphasizing her high energy and excitement, which keep her feeling energized despite potential jet lag.
Iris [00:47]: "No, no, I'm like, just really excited to be home. And I feel like every time I'm excited, I'm like, I'm not tired."
Social Media Buzz and Personal Reflections
The discussion transitions to the overwhelming reaction Iris has received on social media since the show's airing. Iris mentions her Spotify popularity, listing her diverse music preferences, and expresses surprise at how fans discovered her playlist.
Iris [00:25]: "I have like Lana Del Rey on there. I love the Beatles. I have my whole, like, an array. I have everything."
Iris candidly talks about watching replays of the show and initially feeling self-critical about her appearance. However, she quickly shifts to self-acceptance and confidence, a journey many can relate to.
Iris [02:20]: "I kind of got into character and I was like, you know what? This is my moment. I'm gonna go in and I'm gonna have fun."
Gabby [02:22]: "No, you look amazing. Are you kidding?"
Navigating Post-Villa Life and Relationships
Iris opens up about her challenges transitioning from the villa back to everyday life. She discusses her limited dating experiences in LA prior to the show and her desire to find a mature and kind partner, contrasting her experiences on Love Island.
Iris [06:34]: "I didn't really go on much dates before the show, like, because, I mean, I have dated in L.A., but I just wasn't really feeling like any of these guys were matching up to what I was looking for."
The conversation highlights the complexities of reality TV relationships and the pressures contestants face both on and off-screen.
Building Genuine Connections in the Villa
Iris recounts her initial feelings of loneliness in the villa and how Amaya, another contestant, became her anchor. She praises Amaya's authenticity and openness, which fostered a supportive environment for everyone.
Iris [07:42]: "The only person that was really welcoming was Amaya. She reminded me so much of my friend from home."
Iris [09:00]: "I really appreciated that from all of them. And like, Amaya really said what she felt."
Iris emphasizes the importance of genuine communication and the positive impact it had on her and her fellow contestants.
Handling Conflicts and Emotional Challenges
The episode delves into the various conflicts that arose during the season, particularly focusing on interactions with other contestants like Sierra and Huda. Gabby and Iris discuss how Iris maintained her integrity by not engaging in manipulative behaviors, choosing instead to support her fellow contestants authentically.
Iris [09:20]: "I just wanted everyone to do their own thing and not be influenced by anyone."
Iris shares her strategy of staying true to herself and not revealing her feelings prematurely to avoid unnecessary drama.
Iris [20:08]: "I'm focused on myself and my connections with people because I need to focus on my mental health."
Emotional Journey: From TJ to Pepe
A significant portion of the conversation centers around Iris's emotional journey on the show, particularly her relationships with TJ and Pepe. Iris speaks candidly about her heartbreak after TJ left the villa, revealing her vulnerability and emotional depth.
Iris [46:21]: "I was crying because I really built this great connection with TJ."
However, Iris finds solace in her budding relationship with Pepe, highlighting the importance of finding new connections and moving forward.
Iris [57:54]: "I have a connection with Pepe, and I'm gonna continue to explore that."
Gabby commends Iris for her resilience and positive outlook, reinforcing the episode's theme of personal growth and emotional maturity.
Challenges and Intimate Moments in the Villa
Iris and Gabby discuss the various challenges faced in the villa, including the "stand on business" challenge, which tested contestants' endurance and strategy. They also touch on intimate and playful moments, such as kissing challenges and the dynamics of forming romantic connections under constant surveillance.
Iris [34:32]: "We had to stay awake for that conversation."
Gabby [35:28]: "What happened to tariffs? They really came and went."
These anecdotes provide listeners with an inside look into the highs and lows of reality TV participation, emphasizing the balance between competition and camaraderie.
Final Reflections and Future Plans
As the episode nears its conclusion, Iris reflects on her final days in the villa and her plans moving forward. She expresses gratitude for the friendships formed and her excitement to develop her relationship with Pepe outside the confines of the reality TV bubble.
Iris [71:25]: "I'm excited to see where things go and how talking and being together without microphones and cameras is."
Gabby encourages Iris to take her time adjusting to post-show life, underscoring the importance of mental well-being and authentic connections.
Gabby [70:20]: "You're allowed to have a career change and do this, and that's what it does. It's a new career now."
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Iris sharing her social media handles, inviting listeners to follow her journey beyond Love Island. Gabby Windey commends Iris for her honesty and resilience, leaving listeners inspired by her journey of self-discovery and genuine connection.
Iris [75:09]: "Find me on Instagram and TikTok at Iris Kendall. Thank you!"
Gabby [75:36]: "Paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Iris [00:25]: "I have like Lana Del Rey on there. I love the Beatles. I have my whole, like, an array. I have everything."
- Iris [02:20]: "I kind of got into character and I was like, you know what? This is my moment. I'm gonna go in and I'm gonna have fun."
- Iris [07:42]: "The only person that was really welcoming was Amaya. She reminded me so much of my friend from home."
- Iris [09:20]: "I just wanted everyone to do their own thing and not be influenced by anyone."
- Iris [46:21]: "I was crying because I really built this great connection with TJ."
- Iris [57:54]: "I have a connection with Pepe, and I'm gonna continue to explore that."
- Iris [71:25]: "I'm excited to see where things go and how talking and being together without microphones and cameras is."
Closing Thoughts
This episode of Long Winded with Gabby Windey provides a heartfelt and insightful look into the life of a reality TV contestant beyond the cameras. Iris Kendall's journey is one of resilience, authenticity, and genuine connection, offering valuable lessons on personal growth and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures.
For those interested in reality TV insights, personal growth stories, and authentic conversations about love and relationships, this episode is a must-listen.