Podcast Summary: Not Skinny But Not Fat Episode: Kristen Doute: Mommy, Mamacita? Release Date: July 29, 2025 Host: Amanda Hirsch
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Not Skinny But Not Fat, host Amanda Hirsch welcomes Kristen Doute, a beloved figure from Vanderpump Rules. The conversation delves deep into Kristen's personal journey, her return to the reality TV spotlight, and the intricate dynamics within the Vanderpump Rules cast.
Kristen's Personal Life: Motherhood and Pregnancy
Kristen opens up about her recent experiences with motherhood and the challenges surrounding her pregnancy. She shares her feelings of exhaustion, likening them to the sensation of being drugged:
"It's actually concerning, you know, when you're so exhausted, you feel like you've been drugged..." ([02:43]).
Kristen discusses her battle with COVID-19, which left her with lingering fatigue and a debilitating migraine lasting 24 hours. She reflects on her previous encounter with long COVID, which had severe effects on her gut health, leading to conditions like H. Pylori and SIBO:
"I had long Covet and I had those gut issues that I wouldn't shut up about. I literally had H. Pylori and Sibo from COVID..." ([04:10]).
Emotional Reflections and Male Emotional Expression
The conversation shifts to Kristen's observations about emotional expression, particularly in men. She recounts a heartfelt story about a friend's reaction to his wife's pregnancy and draws parallels to her own husband's approach to emotions:
"Men are such a fudgeing complicated in the way that they think because it's so different than us. Like them not letting themselves emote..." ([05:00]).
Kristen emphasizes the complexities of male emotional expression, highlighting how societal expectations often suppress genuine feelings.
Tragic News and Industry Changes
Amanda and Kristen reflect on recent tragic events in Hollywood, including the passing of iconic figures like Hulk Hogan and Ozzy Osbourne, as well as the heartbreaking death of Malcolm Jamal Warner:
"Malcolm Jamal Warner passed away. This is the third... in a very tragic way, drowning." ([06:50]).
They also mourn the cancellation of E News after 34 years, with Kristen sharing her personal connection and aspirations tied to the network:
"Since I was a little girl... E News was Mecca, those fucking Mecca for someone like me..." ([08:30]).
Return to Vanderpump Rules and Show Dynamics
Kristen discusses her return to Vanderpump Rules after a hiatus, expressing both excitement and apprehension about rejoining the cast:
"I was stoked. I was ready, personally, but I was really afraid of the reception, that people weren't going to be ready for me." ([39:56]).
She delves into her relationships with fellow cast members, particularly Janet and the tensions that have arisen:
"Janet is a dramatic and attention-seeking person, but not in a way that irks you. It's almost cute because she's honest about it." ([45:16]).
Kristen criticizes Janet's authenticity, suggesting that the real person behind the camera differs from the on-screen persona:
"The person I see right now is not someone that I'm interested in." ([47:40]).
Supporting Danny and Nia Amidst Cast Conflicts
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Kristen's unwavering support for Danny and Nia, despite the drama surrounding other cast members:
"They didn't have to earn it. They're just great people, and they are so authentic." ([52:25]).
She praises their marriage and honesty, contrasting it with the conflicts involving Janet and others:
"Nia has been... helping me along my fertility journey... She's been there for me every step of the way." ([53:39]).
Addressing Show Criticisms and Future Outlook
Kristen addresses criticisms from figures like Nick Vial, who labeled the Vanderpump Rules cast as "a bunch of losers." She remains composed, expressing gratitude for the support she and her husband receive:
"I'm not saying everyone or I agree with them. I'm just like, thank you, Nick. Appreciate it." ([61:03]).
Looking ahead, Kristen discusses the potential return of certain cast members and her hopes for the show's authenticity:
"If there is authenticity on their side, I think it could be really good for the show." ([64:07]).
Conclusion
Amanda wraps up the episode by commending Kristen for her resilience and openness. Kristen shares her new role as a mother and her commitment to maintaining authentic relationships both on and off the reality TV scene. The episode offers listeners an intimate glimpse into Kristen Doute's life, her struggles, triumphs, and her candid perspectives on fame and personal growth.
Notable Quotes:
- Kristen Doute: "Men are such a fudgeing complicated in the way that they think because it's so different than us." ([05:00])
- Kristen Doute: "I had long Covet and I had those gut issues that I wouldn't shut up about." ([04:10])
- Kristen Doute: "Nia has been... helping me along my fertility journey... She's been there for me every step of the way." ([53:39])
This episode provides a heartfelt and unfiltered conversation between Amanda Hirsch and Kristen Doute, offering valuable insights into managing personal challenges while navigating the complexities of reality television fame.