About this episode

Dylan and guest Ben Mandelker discuss the current state of Bravo shows, comparing successes and failures, and explore the appeal of older Housewives.

On this Tuesday episode, Dylan is joined by Watch What Crappens co-host Ben Mandelker for a wide-ranging Bravo deep dive. They break down why Summer House continues to thrive while The Valley feels stuck, what’s working so well about In The City, and why Real Housewives of Rhode Island has become Bravo’s biggest breakout success story. Plus, Ben shares his thoughts on RHORI’s Slam Pig drama, Liz’s villain reputation, and who may or may not survive a second season. They also discuss RHOA’s resurgence, Angela Oakley and K. Michelle’s impact on the cast, why Bravo succeeds where Netflix reality TV falls short, and whether Housewives are simply more entertaining when they’re a little older. Finally, Ben talks about bringing Watch What Crappens to the cabaret stage with his new live show, "Forbidden Housewives". Go to the BravoByBetches YouTube page to watch full length episodes every Tuesday & Friday: Youtube.com/@BravoByBetches Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Dylan

Guest: Ben Mandelker

Topics covered

• Bravo TV
• Reality TV
• Housewives
• Summer House
• The Valley
• Netflix vs Bravo
• Live shows

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Bravo, Netflix

Books & works: Summer House, The Valley, In The City, Real Housewives of Rhode Island, RHOA, Forbidden Housewives

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• Amanda & West’s Reunion Flop, Dark Liz Comes To RHORI, & RHOA Fires On All Cylinders · June 5, 2026 · 1h 10m

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