How To Fail With Elizabeth Day Dorinda Medley on Grief, Identity and The Real Housewives: ‘I was angry. I was lost. I felt like I got cheated.’
Jul 23, 2025
Dorinda Medley, an author and former Real Housewife of New York, shares her journey of grief and identity after losing her husband. She candidly discusses feelings of anger and disillusionment following fame and her departure from the show. Addressing the challenges of authenticity in reality TV, Dorinda emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and self-acceptance. She reflects on unique friendships formed during filming, her nostalgic memories at Bluestone Manor, and how embracing 'no' can foster personal growth.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Authenticity Breeds Audience Trust
- The Real Housewives of New York cast were seen as authentic, making their audience feel a sense of trust and connection.
- Authenticity has lasting power and can create nostalgia and warmth among viewers.
Crafting Life Through Careful Choices
- Dorinda described carefully choosing partners and life decisions early on to create a lasting vision for herself.
- She emphasized her mother's strong belief in her and planting seeds for future success without relying on luck.
Joining Housewives Amid Grief
- Dorinda started The Real Housewives only four years after her husband's death as part of her grieving process.
- She joined because friends encouraged her and it was a manageable commitment for rebuilding her life.
