After Reality with Courtney Robertson

I’m joined by Bachelor Nation favorite Ben Higgins, and we’re talking about what life really looks like after reality TV — from stepping into fatherhood to finding a deeper sense of purpose.Ben opens up about the emotions of celebrating his daughter’s first Christmas, the personal growth he’s experienced since his Bachelor days, and how his spiritual journey has evolved over the years. We also dive into the expanded edition of his book, Alone in Plain Sight, where he explores loneliness, vulnerability, and faith in a way that feels honest and relatable.We talk about why he’s shifted toward service and philanthropy, how Generous Coffee has become part of that mission, and the work he’s passionate about when it comes to supporting people experiencing homelessness. Ben also shares what he’s building next — including upcoming faith-based programming with iHeartMedia — and gives his take on the current state of the Bachelor franchise.This conversation is heartfelt, real, and grounding… and Ben’s message is simple: you’re not alone, and there’s always a way back to connection and purpose.@higgins.benAlone in Plain Sight: Searching for Connection When You're Seen But Not Knownhttps://wholesale.generouscoffee.com/collections/all-coffee

On this episode of After Reality, Reality Steve joins me to dig into the latest Bachelor Nation drama — starting with Taylor Frankie Paul’s headline-making turn as the new Bachelorette. We get into why her casting is shaking up the franchise, the early behind-the-scenes tea, and what this shift says about the future of the show.We also tackle a few current Bachelor Nation headlines — yes, including a certain podcaster’s recent mom-shaming blunder (looking at you, Nick Viall). Consider this our friendly reminder that if you don’t have something supportive to say… maybe don’t say it on a podcast with millions of listeners.Plus, I’m sharing my updated take on Mel Owens and Peg — because I’ve officially changed my tune, and I’m prepared to eat a little humble pie over it.@Realitystevehttps://patreon.com/realitysteve

On this episode of After Reality, I’m diving into one of my favorite topics as a recovering people-pleaser: the nervous system. I’m joined by somatic practitioner Kallie Klug (aka Kallie Somatics), host of the Your Own Medicine podcast, who breaks down what really happens in our bodies when we shift into fight, flight, freeze… and the response almost no one talks about: fawn.If you’ve ever apologized to keep the peace, said “yes” when you meant absolutely not, or shut down in conflict just to survive the moment, you might actually be fawning — a biological survival strategy wired for protection, not politeness. Kallie explains how fawning differs from everyday people-pleasing, how these patterns get formed, and why “just speak up!” doesn’t stick when your body doesn’t feel safe.We talk nervous system triggers, how trauma shapes behavior, and why so many of us feel tired, resentful, and burned out from being “good” all the time. Kallie also shares practical somatic tools for boundary-setting (especially during the holidays) and we get into her upcoming book, Tired of Being "Good": A nervous system map for reinhibiting your body after a lifetime of fawning.IG: @kali.somaticsYour Own Medicine Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-own-medicine-podcast/id1584877807

It’s that time of year again — the After Reality Holiday Gift Guide is here! Before we get swept up in the sparkle (and stress) of shopping, I’m starting with something that truly makes gift-giving easier: the five love languages. Once you know how your people feel most appreciated, choosing the right gift suddenly becomes… dare I say… fun?In our house, we’re leaning more into experience gifts over “stuff.” Don’t get me wrong — I still love a gorgeous kitchen gadget, personalized accessories, and a chic, elevated loungewear set that can survive drop-offs and all-day errands. But the older my kids get, the more I’m realizing that tickets to the zoo or a year-round membership last way longer than the toy that’s played with twice and turns into clutter.This year, I’m sharing my favorite picks across every category — from high-quality cookware to cozy little splurges for moms, dads, in-laws, teachers, and that impossible person who claims they “don’t need anything.”I even phoned in backup from Papa Robertson. He came through with unexpectedly genius, budget-friendly ideas: magazine subscriptions, practical staples like flashlights (yes, flashlights), and timeless classics like books and digital photo frames. Leave it to Dad to keep it simple and smart.This episode is all about thoughtful gifting without overdoing it — choosing items that bring joy, create memories, or simply make life easier. Whether it’s a Dyson vacuum you’ll use forever or a family outing they’ll never forget, let’s make this season meaningful instead of overwhelming.PEUGEOT Salt & Pepper Mills CODE Courtney10CUTS CLOTHING https://shop.cutsclothing.com/COURTNEYLOOPY CASES COURTNEY10

On this week’s episode of After Reality, I’m sitting down with Meghann Turner from Season 19 of Married at First Sight—my personal standout of the season. Meghann is funny, strong, real, and a fellow true-crime lover, so we hit it off right away. Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of pregnancy loss.In our conversation, Meghann walks me through her MAFS journey—from filming and navigating a marriage on camera to the emotional highs and lows that came with it. She opens up about her relationship with Derrek Wiedeman, the frustration on how hard it was when serious conversations only seemed to happen once the cameras were rolling.Meghann also bravely shares what happened after Decision Day, including the heartbreaking miscarriage she experienced and the sudden end of her marriage when Derrek moved on soon after. She talks honestly about confronting him at the reunion and the pain of that moment. Today, Meghann is focused on therapy, healing, and stepping into new chapters—both personally and professionally. She’s rebuilding her life with a strong community of support around her, and even exploring online dating as she rediscovers what love and connection look like after MAFS. Her strength, honesty, and resilience shine through, and I’m so grateful she chose to share her story with us.@meghannturner

On this week’s episode of After Reality, I’m joined by Daniel, the mayor of Huntington Beach, and we’re diving headfirst into all things reality TV. Daniel shares his 15-week self-imposed fitness “boot camp” journey, and we talk about why actual human interaction at the grocery store beats self-checkout any day. It’s a little reality TV, a little Trader Joe’s, a little fitness — and a whole lot of fun. We break down the latest season of Married at First Sight — what went down, which couples made it, and all the relationship dynamics we can’t stop analyzing. We also wander into a few of our other obsessions, including The Summer I Turned Pretty, some true crime recommendations, and even the unhinged hype around those limited-edition Trader Joe’s tote bags. We also get into our thoughts on season 3 of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and Taylor Frankie Paul as the next Bachelorette. Zig and zag with us.

This week on After Reality, I’m diving into the Mel Owens finale of The Golden Bachelor and sharing all my unfiltered thoughts — plus a cameo from Papa Robertson, who I called mid-episode for his take (and trust me, he had opinions).Between Bachelor commentary, I’m catching you up on real life behind the scenes: juggling back-to-back kids’ birthdays, navigating school volunteer hours, and organizing a full K-Pop–themed “Paloma Golden 4 Ever” birthday celebration.I’m also chatting about what I’m currently watching, reading, and listening to, a few unexpected thoughts on driving safety, and even a moment under the Beaver Moon. It’s a little pop culture, a little mom life, and a whole lot of real talk — just how we like it.

This week on After Reality, I’m giving you a real-life update — from the chaos of holiday prep to the very scary moment I found a razor blade in my child’s Halloween candy (yes, really). Between that and fighting off a bug, I decided it might be time for a little digital detox and holiday breather.Of course, I couldn’t stay away from Bachelor Nation drama — I’m breaking down Gerry Turner’s tell-all (and the tea on his divorce from Theresa Nist), plus my honest take on the low-energy Golden Bachelor season featuring Mel Owens.I’m also sharing a few TV recs to cozy up with and a quick family check-in — Humberto caught the Dodgers’ World Series win from Vegas, and let’s just say… he’s still celebrating.Grab your mom hat and join me — because sometimes the reality off-screen is even wilder than what’s on TV. 💫

This week on After Reality, Papa Robertson joins me as I catch up on life, motherhood, and the beautiful chaos of the holiday season with our three little ones. Between meltdowns, planning holiday cards, and trying to give our home a little refresh, there’s never a dull moment. I even share a recent pregnancy scare (because, of course, why not add that to the mix?). We also chat about the Dodgers’ historic game, and I dish a bit of reality TV news—including when you can expect to see Taylor Frankie Paul’s season of The Bachelorette.