Rachel 'Raquel' Leviss may not have returned for Season 11 of Vanderpump Rules, but she's still making waves in the Scandoval drama that has unfolded both on and off the show. The 29-year-old former Bravo star recently launched her podcast called Rachel Goes Rogue, where she delves into the world of the reality TV series not once, but twice a week.
While Leviss admits she's not necessarily interested in adding fuel to the drama fire, her main goal is to create a healthier environment for reality TV viewers. She hopes to contribute to the development of more ethical reality TV by educating people about what they are actually consuming when watching these shows.
The decision to start her podcast stems from a desire to make a positive impact. Leviss envisions a better reality TV landscape and believes that she can play a role in achieving that. Although she acknowledges the challenges involved, she remains focused on taking action, advocating for education, and letting go of fixation on outcomes. This sense of freedom allows her to navigate her path with conviction, regardless of the ultimate result.
The catalyst for Leviss leaving Vanderpump Rules was the fallout from her affair with Tom Sandoval, which ultimately led to the end of his nine-year relationship with co-star Ariana Madix. Speaking on her podcast, Leviss revealed that she felt unsupported by the group after the revelation of her secret intimate relationship with Sandoval. She described a dynamic where everyone had an opinion on her actions, but she felt isolated and no longer part of a supportive community.
Leviss emphasizes that she didn't expect to be welcomed back to the show due to the circumstances, as it would have put her in a vulnerable position with limited confidants. Prioritizing her mental health and seeking stability and sanity in her life, she made the decision to step away from the show. She recognized the potential danger of being caught in a cycle of fight, flight, or freeze, with only Sandoval as someone she could turn to.
During the podcast episode, Leviss and her guest, clinical counselor and trauma specialist Susan Zinn, discussed the possibility of 'trauma bonding' in situations similar to Leviss and Sandoval's affair. Leviss admits that during the affair, she felt confused and incapable of thinking for herself. However, as she pursued trauma therapy and implemented boundaries, she began to see more clearly and regain her autonomy.
Leviss does not take the situations that arise on reality TV lightly. She acknowledges the challenging environment that the show creates for its participants, emphasizing that it is not an easy place to be.
As Vanderpump Rules continues to air, viewers can't help but wonder about the impact of Leviss's departure and the development of a more ethical reality TV landscape. Leviss's determination to educate and promote ethical behavior within the genre sheds light on the potential for positive change. Whether her efforts succeed or not, one thing is clear - Rachel Leviss is committed to making a difference in the world of reality television.
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