Hot Reality Takes; A Woman's Podcast

We’re finally back in the studio, dusting off the mites from the podcast room we’ve missed more than a Real Housewives of Salt Lake City episode.Life was absolutely life-ing, and making time wasn’t always easy, but here we are, reunited with the microphones at last.In this episode, we catch up on everything: my recent OB-GYN visits, Valarie’s HRT journey, and her unexpected ER plot twist.It’s honest, it’s real, and very much a snapshot of what our lives have looked like lately.Of course, we couldn’t return without talking about the reality shows currently consuming our free time (what little of it there is).It’s a mix of updates, laughter, and the comfort of slipping right back into something we love.We’ve missed this, and we’ve missed you, so come hang out with us for our much needed catch-up episode.  

Shannon and Valarie open up about one of the most unexpected, and traumatizing chapters of their lives. Bed bugs. From how they first got them, to the grueling process of treatment, to the lasting PTSD that still lingers. They share it all with honesty, a little humor, and some tips.This episode dives into the lessons they learned, the myths they busted, and why these tiny pests left such a big impact. If you've ever feared bed bugs or lived through them yourself, you won't want to miss this unfiltered conversation.

In this fun bonus episode, Shannon and Val sit down with Meg to talk about how her gateway into reality TV started with Southern Charm, and how that naturally lead us all to Southern Hospitality. From there, the conversation takes us right into the world of the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, sharing who our favorites are, our reaction to the brand new trailer, and why this franchise keeps us so hooked.

In this episode, Shannon and Val sit down with their friend Meg to pull back the curtain on the world of pageantry, From the difference between Miss USA and Miss America, to the evolving rules that now welcome all women to the stage. Meg shares the insider perspective you've always wondered about. She also gives us a peek into the judges chair, what they're really looking for, how contestants shine (or don't), and whats it's like to be part of this world as a non competitor.

In this vulnerable episode, Allison sits down with Shannon and Valarie to share how the breakup with her fiance, though painful, became the unexpected blessing that led her toward healing. She opens up about how Al-Anon gave her clarity, how therapy has helped her grow, and what it means to rebuild on her own terms. Her story is one of resilience, self discovery, and the courage to embrace new beginnings.

In this episode, Allison opens up about her journey to self discovery, navigating high school with a secret girlfriend, the pressures of appearing "perfect" and "normal" and the freedom she found in college through therapy and self acceptance. She shares the challenges and breakthroughs of coming out, the lessons learned about authenticity, and the powers of releasing expectations. Allison also offers insight on what it truly means to show up as an ally, and how to honor and support Pride Month in meaningful ways.

In this bonus episode, Shannon opens up about the difficult path she faced entering menopause after breast cancer, forced to self diagnose, doctor shop, and fight for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when no one would listen. Her persistence didn't just change her own life, it inspired Erin and Valarie to find their own voices and pursue answers with their OB-GYNs. Together, the three share their personal stories of navigating estrogen, the stigma and roadblocks around HRT, and the power of showing up for each other in the doctor's office. This candid conversation is more than hormones, its about women advocating for their health when the system falls short.

Beth's episode of HRT dives into the grit, humor, and resilience it takes to thrive in a male dominated industry. From her early days in a call center to earning her place in the field, Beth has built a career on determination, skill and the ability to hold her own among the guys, without loosing her authenticity. She opens up about the challenges she's faced, the victories she's earned, and the lessons she's learned along the way, all while juggling life as a wife, mom and friend with a flair for fun. With plenty of laughs, honest reflections, and a few reality TV parallels, this episode proves that breaking barriers can be both tough and wildly entertaining.

The reunion continues, and so does the chaos. Shannon and Valarie unpack every explosive moment from fallouts, fueds, and the "Did they really just say that?" moments from The Valley Reunion part two.

What happens when your best friend is your sister-in-law- and she asks you to carry her baby? In this deeply personal episode, Valarie shares what it was like to be a surrogate for her brother and Shannon. The two open up about the emotional, physical, and relational journey of surrogacy, from injections and doctor visits to laughter, fear, and the delivery day that changed everything. It's a story of trust, love, and redefining what family can look like.

Hop on the Blue Bus with Erin, Shannon's identical twin and lifelong educator, as she shares her journey as a fierce ally for LGBTQ+ community, a champion for feminism, and a mentor to countless students. Erin brings humor, heart, and hard truths about what it means to stand up, speak out, and always vote yes for equality. This bonus episode is all about advocacy, identity, and the power of showing up...even if it's on four wheels painted blue.

For a decade Shannon hoped, prayed, injected and waited...All for two pink lines that never came. In this deeply personal episode, she opens up about the physical and emotional toll of infertility. From IVF cycles and silent ultrasounds, to the quiet heartbreak of watching others become mothers, Shannon shares the moments that shaped her and the strength she never knew she had. This is not a story of resolution, its a story of resilience, idenity and what it means to redefined what it means to be whole. If you've ever loved anything you couldn't have, this ones for you.

Shannon and Val share how their obsession with Bravo turned into a sister-hood, a dream trip to LA, and now a podcast where they keep up with all the Hot Reality Takes!

Part 1, Emotional, heartfelt, honest stories from Erin and Shannons journey together through infertility and Erin becoming a proud mom of twins! Follow for part 2, Shannon and Valaries surrogacy journey and Shannons journey to motherhood!

Where Bravo obsession meets real life confession and every woman's story deserves the spotlight! From surrogacy and menopause to career shifts, ketamine therapy, and coming out. Hosts Valarie and Shannon dive deep into raw, real conversations with women who inspire and encourage them. Expect hot takes, heartfelt moments, and a whole lot of reality.