In this episode of The Former Reality Podcast, host Your Secret Set Sister sits down with James — a longtime Real Housewives producer who traded cast drama for classroom curiosity. After years orchestrating iconic Bravo moments and wrangling chaotic shoot days, he made the bold pivot into teaching eighth-grade science… where the plot twists are still plentiful, just a lot stickier (hello, slime projects).
James shares what led him to step away from the unscripted rollercoaster, how the industry downturn pushed him to rethink stability, and why working with kids has become one of the brightest chapters of his life. We talk about the joy of watching students “lightbulb” their way through lessons, the humor of middle school antics, and the hope he’s found in shaping futures instead of storylines.
If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to rewrite your career narrative, or about 'going back to school,' James explains how producing reality TV prepares you surprisingly well for managing a classroom. Listen in on an encouraging and heartwarming conversation.
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Editing provided by Brando
The Former Reality Podcast shares candid conversations with media pros who’ve stepped away from production to build new careers. Through insightful interviews, we explore why they chose to leave, the challenges of pivoting, and the strategies that led them to success in their New Reality. From transferable skills to personal growth, each episode offers inspiration and practical takeaways for navigating life beyond the industry.
In this episode of Former Reality, Your Secret Set Sister talks with Erin, a seasoned unscripted AC, audio assist, and producer on shows like Real Housewives, who made the leap into the legal world as a federal public defender paralegal. Erin shares how she navigated not one but two major career pivots—balancing her love for production with a new role focused on research, courtroom prep, and client interviews. Her story offers insight into spotting transferable skills, staying adaptable, and finding stability in uncertain times—while still keeping an eye on her dream of working in true crime.
Resources:
Further Reading - paralegaledu.org, Forbes, Indeed
Paralegal regulations by state - PDF
Resume Writing - Reality Resumes, MyPerfectResume, Zety
Connect with our Guest - Question Form
The world of production can take you anywhere: around the world, to major city hubs -- and even to your wits end. Today's guest, Chelsea, built a thriving career as a Camera DP, navigating the shifting ties of news and Reality. But as gigs slowed down, and rates dropped, she made the brave decision to step away from it all. Prioritizing her well-being and the chance to try something new, she relocated to Tacoma, WA. There, she tapped into her network and landed a role as a Public Information Officer for the Fire Department. Now, she spends her days communicating vital safety updates, collaborating with the Fire Chiefs on media strategy and building meaningful connections in her community. Listen in as we explore how Chelsea leveraged her skills and how creative storytelling continues to guide her path. Chelsea now helps keep her community safe and informed through strategic media and storytelling.
If you're a media professional exploring career change, thinking about leaving freelance for full-time, or wondering how your skills translate to other industries, this episode is for you. Discover how one producer made the leap, found balance, and still tells powerful stories—just with a new lens.
Resources:
Further Reading - Indeed, NPS, USAJobs.Gov
Resume Writing - Reality Resumes, MyPerfectResume, Zety, Entertainment Community Fund
Connect with our Guest - Question Form
In the world of media production, we wear many hats—but today’s guest, Ashley, may have been the one who styled them. With a background as a costume and set designer, Ashley brought visual cohesion and artistic flair to film, late-night television, and commercial sets. Her creative work was as dynamic as her spirit—adventurous, collaborative, and always open to new opportunities.
Now, she’s thriving in what she calls her New Reality—as a mother, a wife (to a former reality TV contestant!), and a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur. From running estate sales to managing brand marketing initiatives, Ashley has transitioned her storytelling and design skills into ventures that align with her values and lifestyle.
If you’re a creative professional questioning your next chapter, Ashley’s story is a reminder that reinvention is possible—and sometimes, even more fulfilling.
Further Reading - EstateSales.org, Ninety90 Pictures, BlueMoon Careers
Resume Writing - Reality Resumes, MyPerfectResume, Zety
Connect with our Guest - Question Form