Balancing Act with Kristen Doute and Luke Broderick

Episode 178. In this episode, Kristen is joined by one of her favorite producers — Emmy Award–winning showrunner Lyndsey Burr — the powerhouse behind Queer Eye, former producer on Vanderpump Rules, and a longtime reality TV insider whose career spans from production assistant to talent supervisor to showrunner.

Before the Emmys and showrunning credits, Lyndsey worked as a self-described “professional babysitter” on America's Next Top Model, where she started as a production assistant and rose to talent supervisor. Plus — yes — we get into the iconic “we were rooting for you” moment and her firsthand take from being there.

Kristen and Lyndsey revisit their time on VPR and unpack the delicate balance between producing great television and protecting real human emotions.

The conversation also dives into her work on Queer Eye — from the casting process and the most emotionally difficult episode to shoot this past season, to why the beloved series is coming to an end.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when the cameras stop rolling… this episode is for you.

Sponsors:

For a limited time, our listeners get 15% off at Arey by using code KRISTEN at Arey.com.
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Episode 177. This week on Balancing Act, Kristen is joined by bestie, Zack Wickham, to talk all about their friendship — and what you don’t see on The Valley.

They share how they met, their first impressions, the early VPR days, and how their bond grew behind the scenes. Zack opens up about moving to LA and finding his chosen family, while Kristen reveals her favorite things about him. They also talk skincare secrets, surprising fun facts, and clear up misconceptions about their friendship.

Plus, listener questions and a rapid-fire round to wrap it all up.

Sponsors:

Arey: For a limited time, our listeners get 15% off at Arey by using code KRISTEN at Arey.com.
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Episode 176. In this episode, Kristen is joined by Lacy Nicole—mental health advocate, philanthropist, podcast host, and founder of the Shame to Sparkle Foundation.

Lacy opens up about her story as a survivor of childhood trauma, including a kidnapping, and shares how those early experiences shaped her relationship with shame, emotional regulation, and self-worth—and how they ultimately led her to create a platform dedicated to helping women heal from trauma and PTSD.

Kristen and Lacy dive into powerful conversations around:

• Living with and healing from shame and trauma

• How generational pain is passed down—and how to stop the cycle

• Healing as a parent while re-parenting your inner child

• ADHD, emotional regulation, and mental health awareness

• The pros and cons of opening your life up to reality TV

• Why Kristen chose to give Jesse another chance—and what growth really looks like

This episode is raw, compassionate, and empowering—a reminder that even the heaviest shame can be alchemized into strength, connection, and sparkle. ✨
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Episode 175. This week, Kristen and Luke ring in the new year with a heartfelt and emotional update as they share the sad news of losing their beloved pet, Jill. They open up about Jill’s emergency surgery, her cancer diagnosis, and the last-minute road trip to Colorado so she could spend her final days in her favorite place.

They reflect on Jill’s last week, how they spent Christmas, and what that road trip meant to their family during such a tender time. They also talk about what they’re leaving behind in 2025, their New Year’s resolutions, and the small joys that are helping them move forward.

The episode also includes lighter moments—when to finally take down Christmas decorations, excitement for "The Valley: Persian Style", and updates on life with baby Kaia, including sleep training wins (and struggles). Kristen shares gratitude for her mom friends and the support she’s received, while Luke reveals the baby products he truly can’t live without.

A meaningful, honest start to the new year filled with love, loss, and gratitude.
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Episode 174. This week on the pod, Kristen is joined by none other than Lindsay Hubbard from Summer House!

Lindsay gets real and raw about life after baby—from the major identity shift to her big "aha" moment. She opens up about co-parenting, body image struggles, and whether baby #2 could be in her future.

Lindsay also spills the tea on if she is dating, breakups, and that explosive moment that took place before what was supposed to be her wedding day.

Plus:

- Where Lindsay stands with her ex(s) now

- Her response to a very recent Summer House castmate’s interview

- Could a friendship be on the table?

Also, Kristen talks about where she and Luke are thinking about moving and potential locations for their wedding! Tune in for all the details and so much more!

Sponsors:

Nutrafol: For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code DOUTE.
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