Podcast Summary: Not Skinny But Not Fat – Episode Featuring Luann de Lesseps: The Countess & Cabaret Star

Introduction

In this vibrant episode of Not Skinny But Not Fat, host Amanda Hirsch welcomes Luann de Lesseps, famously known as "The Countess" from The Real Housewives of New York City. The conversation delves into Luann's recent experiences, her transition from reality TV to cabaret, personal anecdotes, and her perspectives on various aspects of life and fame.

1. A Star-Studded Morning: Encounter with Sam Smith and Anna Wintour

Luann recounts an exciting morning where she met Sam Smith and stood next to fashion icon Anna Wintour.

• Meeting Sam Smith:
  [01:00]
  Luann de Lesseps: "I saw Sam Smith and said hi from Glenn, and he goes, 'Luann'."

• Encounter with Anna Wintour:
  [01:17]
  Luann de Lesseps: "I was standing next to Anna Wintour when that happened. She doesn't know me well, but it's always a moment."

Amanda highlights the serendipitous nature of these encounters, emphasizing the blend of deep connections and unexpected meetings in Luann's life.

2. Touring the World: England 2025 and Australia

Luann shares her excitement about her ongoing tour and future plans.

• Current Tour and Future Plans:
  [01:58]
  Luann de Lesseps: "I'm touring England right now and planning to return in 2025 to do a lot of shows there and in Australia. It's an exhilarating time."

She expresses joy over expanding her reach and connecting with international audiences, highlighting the global appeal of her cabaret performances.

3. From Reality TV to Cabaret: Creating "Mary F. Kelp"

Transitioning from reality TV, Luann has ventured into cabaret with her show "Mary F. Kelp," inspired by the "Marry, F, Kill" game.

• Inspiration Behind the Show:
  [04:15]
  Luann de Lesseps: "Mary F. Kill Countess. I renamed it because lyrically, it sounds better—Mary F. Kelp."

• Show Description:
  [04:34]
  Luann de Lesseps: "It's a mix of pop culture, cabaret, comedy, and a fashion show. It’s all about my love life gone right and wrong, inspired by fan requests."

Amanda expresses her excitement for the show, appreciating the creative fusion Luann has crafted.

4. Balancing Personal Life and Fame

Luann delves into her personal life, discussing motherhood, breastfeeding, and maintaining social engagements.

• Breastfeeding Journey:
  [02:35]
  Luann de Lesseps: "I breastfed for four months each of my babies while managing a bustling social life in Europe."

She candidly discusses the challenges and adjustments of motherhood intertwined with a public persona.

5. Navigating Social Media and Blockages

The conversation shifts to the dynamics of social media, with Luann addressing being blocked and her approach to negativity online.

• Being Blocked by Alec Baldwin:
  [12:22]
  Luann de Lesseps: "I'm still blocked by Alec Baldwin because I talked about his wife. It hurts, but it's not how I live."

• Handling Negativity:
  [13:28]
  Luann de Lesseps: "I cancel people who say nasty things about me. It’s about maintaining a positive space."

Amanda and Luann discuss the importance of surrounding oneself with positivity and managing online interactions.

6. Personal Habits: Smoking and Vaping Preferences

Luann shares her smoking habits, favoring traditional cigarettes over vapes.

• Smoking Preferences:
  [24:32]
  Luann de Lesseps: "I prefer American Spirits because they don’t have chemicals. I don’t smoke a lot, but I enjoy them."

She provides insight into her personal choices, reflecting on how they align with her lifestyle and health considerations.

7. Experiences with Fellow Celebrities

Luann recounts her interactions with various celebrities, including Tilda Swinton and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

• Invitation to Scotland by Tilda Swinton:
  [19:52]
  Luann de Lesseps: "Tilda invited me to Scotland, and it was divine. We enjoyed red wine and crumpets on the train."

• Meeting Andrew Lloyd Webber:
  [41:26]
  Luann de Lesseps: "At the Sunset Boulevard opening, I chatted with Andrew Lloyd Webber, discussing our shared love for the theater."

These stories highlight Luann's deep connections within the entertainment industry and her ability to maintain meaningful relationships.

8. Upcoming Projects and Tours

Looking ahead, Luann teases future performances and projects.

• Love Hotel Dating Show:
  [37:34]
  Luann de Lesseps: "Love Hotel was a great vibe, focusing more on the boys and less on drama. It brought a personal touch from our Housewives background."

• Cabaret Shows in New York and London:
  [45:05]
  Luann de Lesseps: "We're performing at Town Hall in the spring and promoting my tour in London for 2025. Can't wait to bring Europe along!"

Amanda encourages listeners to attend her shows, appreciating the unique blend of entertainment she offers.

9. Perspectives on Aging and Relationships

Luann discusses her views on aging, relationships, and dating across different age groups.

• Age-Appropriate Dating:
  [43:05]
  Luann de Lesseps: "I dabble in late 40s or late 50s. It's about age-appropriate connections, avoiding the chaos of mismatched relationships."

• Maintaining Loyalty:
  [29:25]
  Luann de Lesseps: "Once I'm in a relationship, I'm loyal to the end. People come and go, but I remain a true friend."

Her insights offer a mature perspective on building and maintaining meaningful relationships.

10. Iconic Moments and Timeless Humor

Reflecting on her time in reality TV, Luann shares memorable moments that continue to resonate.

• Falling into the Bushes:
  [30:35]
  Luann de Lesseps: "There was the moment I fell into the bush outside the White House. It was chaotic but now, it’s a funny story we all laugh about."

Amanda commends Luann for her ability to find humor in challenging situations, solidifying her timeless appeal.

Conclusion

This episode of Not Skinny But Not Fat offers an intimate look into Luann de Lesseps' multifaceted life—from her encounters with celebrities and her global tours to her personal philosophies on relationships and aging. Luann's candidness and vibrant personality make for an engaging and inspiring conversation, providing listeners with both entertainment and heartfelt insights.

Notable Quotes:

• Luann on Living Authentically:
  [07:23]
  "Luann: 'Reality TV has changed so much. On stage and cabaret, I get to be me. There's no faking it.'"

• On Taking Opportunities:
  [22:36]
  "Luann: 'When an opportunity comes along, trust your gut and do it. If you're not scared, you're not living.'"

• About Loyalty in Relationships:
  [29:25]
  "Luann: 'Once I'm in a relationship, I'm loyal to the end. People come and go, but I remain a true friend.'"

Stay Connected

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