Charmingly Toxic
Hosted by Denise Capurso, licensed therapist, trauma specialist, and unapologetic reality TV junkie, this podcast unpacks the messy world of toxic relationships both on screen and off. With over 25 years of experience helping women heal from narcissistic abuse, coercive control, and relational trauma, Denise brings clinical insight with a side of no-nonsense commentary. From Housewives drama to cult dynamics, controlling in-laws to “too good to be true” partners, Charmingly Toxic shines a light on the patterns that leave us drained, doubting, or downright dizzy. Each episode, you’ll gain tools to spot the red flags, set boundaries that stick, and reclai...
Bye-Bye Summer House and Hello McBee Dynasty
Denise and Joanne put the Summer House season to rest, touch on the latest Love Island drama, recap all the latest gossip and get all up into the McBees business.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Charmingly Toxic is for entertainment and education. While I am a licensed therapist, I’m not diagnosing anyone on this podcast. I...
Beta Blocker Brainwashing
This week Denise and Joanne continue to try to break down the Summer House reunion even though West and Amanda shared next to nothing, so we add in some fun recaps from The Valley, RHORI and LOVE ISLAND USA!
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Charmingly Toxic is for entertainment and education. While I am a licensed th...
Bravo, Bravo, So Much Bravo
Another busy Bravo week! The spicy Summer House reunion continues. We break down the shocking revelations and also discuss In The City, The Valley and RHORI.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
5:37 Summer House Reunion Insights
21:53 The Frustration of Editing & Confessionals
26:23 Rhode Island Revelations and Entertainment Critique
31:25 Valley Life and Relationship Red Flags
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook...
Four Bravo Recaps and Lots of Gossip
We have lots of content to dissect this week, including the Summer House Finale, In The City, The Valley and the continuation of the slam pig fight on Rhode Island.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Charmingly Toxic is for entertainment and education. While I am a licensed therapist, I’m not diagnosing anyone on this podcast. I...
Summer House Finale, In The City Premiere & The Dark(o)ness of The Valley
This week Denise and Joanne cover the legal drama surrounding Rhode Island, we recap Summer House, In The City and go deep on Danny's awful behavior on The Valley
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Charmingly Toxic is for entertainment and education. While I am a licensed therapist, I’m not diagnosing anyone on this podcast. Instea...
RH of Rhode Island Family Trauma and Summer House Behavior
This week we dissect this week’s juicy Bravo gossip, discuss the RHORI family and friendship dynamics and all of the cringe worthy Summer House moments - we are reminded who Kyle really is, and continue to wonder when this season of SH will finally end!
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Charmingly Toxic is for entertainme...
Summer House, RHORI and The Valley - a Toxicity Trio
This week Joanne and I dive into the ever changing friendship dynamic on Summer House and break down Amanda’s behavior and potential manipulation in light of what we now know. We’ll also cover the fun yet messy drama on Rhode Island, Danny’s toxic antics towards Nia on the Valley and cover some of this week’s reality tv juicy gossip.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instag...
RHoRI and Summer House
This week, Joanne and I break down RHO Rhode Island, including the moment JoEllen casually mentions she was in a sorority—and guess what? So were we. Shout‑out to all our AGO girl!. We drop quick, spicy takes on why Rula keeps hanging on to Brian, then jump over to Summer House, where a much‑needed break from Kyle and Amanda lets everyone root for Carl and his Soft Bar Opening Era. Carl’s growth is real, and Bailey is absolutely here for it.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-lif...
RHoRI, Summer House and The Valley
Our hot takes on Real Housewives of Rhode Island, Summer House, and The Valley. In Rhode Island, everyone has a skeleton in the closet and absolutely no interest in protecting anyone else’s. It’s every woman for herself. On Summer House, Amanda is working overtime to get West to smooth things over with Ciara so she and West can eventually go public without blowing up the group. And on The Valley, we’re watching Janet and Jason slowly get iced out of the cast.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-l...
Summer House and The Valley
This week on Charmingly Toxic: On Summer House, Carl’s rage toward Kyle is no longer simmering — it’s boiling. Every interaction just confirms what he’s finally admitting to himself: Kyle only cares about Kyle. Then on The Valley, Zach calls out Brittany for refusing to see a single red flag in her new situation with Brandon. And Janet continues to dig her own grave with the cast — she knows she’s on the verge of being iced out, and somehow keeps making it worse.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-lif...
Welcome to Plathville Season Premiere & RHORI Episodes 1 and 2
We recap Welcome to Plathville Season 8, Episode 1, where Kim is very clearly not interested in aplogizingor giving up control of Lydia — not even a little. Then we jump into the brand‑new Real Housewives of Rhode Island. Episodes 1 and 2 introduce the cast, and somehow everyone is already having an affair, accusing someone of an affair, or quietly lining one up. Rhode Island came in hot.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
Summer House and The Valley
The West and Amanda scandal on Summer House is truly beyond words — we’re still trying to make sense of what is happening!.Then over in The Valley, the whole cast is back, Jax is not (see you never), and we’re all wondering the same thing: can we take a full season of Lala? As always, we touch on gossip including Jen Shaw interview (@katecaseyca).
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me<...
Southern Charm Reunion and Summer House
This week on Charmingly Toxic, we break down the three most toxic men on Bravo this week: Craig, Austen, and Kyle. From emotional immaturity to dark manipulation to their ongoing pattern of devaluing women, these guys continue get worse every season. We are officially ready to kick these guys off the screen. Do we really need them anymore, or is Bravo long overdue for a casting refresh?
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Co...
Southern Charm, House of Villians and Summer House
The Southern Charm finale puts Craig’s toxic manipulation on full display as he spins Charlie, Sally, and Austen in circles. Over on Summer House, Ciarra and KJ break the fourth wall with an honest conversation about being the only Black cast members in an otherwise all‑white house. And to top it off, House of Villains gives us Kate running the game with full mob‑boss energy, and we’re completely obsessed.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen...
1000 lb Sisters Finale...Don't get bit by a horse!!
The 1000‑lb Sisters finale delivers peak Slaton energy: Amy gets married and looks gorgeous and confident, Tammy finally takes real accountability, and Chris cracks jokes about not being able to run off Brian. It’s the family at their warmest and funniest—full of love, chaos, and classic Slaton teasing.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Charmingl...
Love is Blind Season 10 Reunion - Bonus Episode
Eleanor is back and we’re diving straight into the Love Is Blind reunion chaos. We’re talking Bri’s full‑blown PR stunts, Mike’s family, and Nick and Vanessa putting Chris and Alex on blast. It’s messy, it’s unfiltered, and we get into every last bit of it.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Char...
All the Current Shows!
This week, Joanne and I got right into it—calling out the most toxic reality stars across Bravo, Peacock, and Paramount. Big drama, bigger opinions, and absolutely no holding back.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Charmingly Toxic is for entertainment and education. While I am a licensed therapist, I’m not diagnosing anyone on this podcast. Ins...
Summer House Episode 4
Joanne and I dive into Summer House Season 10, Episode 4, where Lindsay returns to the Hamptons with her trademark powerhouse energy. Jesse asks West for his “approval” to hook up with Ciarra—assuming she’d be into it—and the guys are thrown by the ask. We also meet Dara, the newest cast member, and start guessing who she’ll vibe with.
Then we jump over to The Traitors to share our predictions on who takes home the win.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narciss...
1000 lb Sisters Season 8, Episode 6
We’re breaking down Amy stepping into her art era, Tammy navigating mental health and a birthday full of family tension, and Brittany’s full‑blown glow‑up. We also get into how weight loss is reshaping personalities, roles, and relationships. It’s messy, heartfelt, and exactly why we keep watching.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supportcoaching
📘 Facebook: Denise Capurso Counseling and Coaching
🎙️ Charmingly...
Love is Blind Season 10 Episodes 1-6
My guest and I break down the first 6 episodes of Love is Blind,
Season 10. Are people even showing up as their best selves in the pods
this season, or are we just watching a parade of pick‑me energy and
half‑truths? We get into who’s oversharing, and what these people are
actually allowed to disclose about their looks. Love is not blind, and
yes, we say the quiet part out loud: this show needs a format
overhaul. Maybe people get engaged after living together? Maybe let
Bravo Gossip, Summer House Episode 2 and Traitors
This week we’re deep in the Bravo world. Jill Z takes A‑Hole of the
Week after getting fired from her E! show for her halftime comments,
and we break down the whole mess. We also touch on the SLC crew
guesting on Below Deck, and… not a great look.
Over on Summer House, we get into Kyle’s manipulative, narcissistic
moves — the projecting, the team‑building, and the shame narrative
around Amanda. The new girls are bringing great energy, and Carl has
fully stepped into...
Summer House Premier, The Valley and Traitors
This week we dive into the Summer House premiere — saying goodbye to the old and welcoming the new. There’s a striking age difference in the cast now, but surprisingly, the mix works and the energy feels fresh.
Our one plea to the Bravo gods: please don’t make us sit through another season of Amanda and Kyle fighting. We all know what happens in the end and we don't need to see every passive aggressive comment. Get naked Amanda! And yes… we miss Lindsay and Paige.
Over on The Valley, Skye is fully in her vill...
SLC Reunion Part 3: The Valley and Traitors
Joanne and I break down Part 3 of the SLC reunion, and yes — we both agree it was way too long. Bronwyn easily takes the “most authentic” crown.
Then we jump over to The Valley, where GG masterfully sets Dennis up to be absolutely annihilated at Adam’s birthday dinner. Reza’s commentary throughout? Pure gold.
And finally… Traitors. Colton, we can't stand you but an excellent take down of Lisa in that conversation. Lisa, your time is up!
#syltbar
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life re...
1000 lb Sister's Recap
In this episode of Charmingly Toxic, Denise and Cassie dive into the chaotic world of 1000‑lb Sisters. We break down the messy family dynamics, the emotional highs and lows, and the patterns of neglect and addiction that keep showing up for Tammy and Amy.
We also get into the big question everyone’s asking: how much are these cast members actually getting paid — and where is that money going?
And of course, we can’t ignore the way this family talks to each other. Sometimes it’s hilarious, sometimes it’s downright brutal, and somehow it all still...
SLC Reunion, The Valley: Persian Style and Traitors Part 2
We break down RHOSLC Reunion Part 2, where Meredith delivers a classic deflection and tries to drop a bomb that feels like a stretch. Then it’s on to The Valley: Persian Style, untangling Golnesa’s marriages and the business ventures that went sideways.
Over on The Traitors, no one is mourning Michael Rapaport’s exit after his castle meltdown. And we wrap with the latest Bravo gossip, including Kyle and Amanda’s divorce announcement.
#benandronnie #watchwhatcrappens #Styltbar
Chapters
02:17 Summer House
07:05 The Beckham Family Drama
09:48 Salt Lake City Reunion...
SLC Reunion, The Valley: Persian Style and Traitors
This week, we hit the latest reality‑TV chaos — the SLC reunion (Lisa stating once again she has full New York DNA, is a big deal and does big things with big people). Plus the return of Shahs where Reza, GG, and MJ are exactly who they’ve always been. Zero growth, thrilled to be back, and GG’s spending habits are still unhinged. We also break down The Traitors and who the strongest players are so far.
Chapters
01:29 Salt Lake City Reunion Recap
19:50 The Valley: Persian Style
28:04 Traitors
Along th...
Diddy's Cult-like Influence
In this episode, we dive into the messy layers of Diddy’s career—everything from the manipulation and power plays to how his upbringing shaped the chaos that followed. We talk about the cult‑like environment he built, the complicated roles people like Kirk played as both victims and enablers, and the violent rivalries that fueled the industry. We also get into what Diddy’s legacy looks like now and how public perception might shift as more comes to light.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, nar...
SLC Season Finale!
In this episode, we start with the latest Bravo gossip before diving into the chaos in Salt Lake City. We break down the season finale, the relationship drama, and the gaslighting that somehow never takes a day off. We also get into that Greek play, which ended up exposing way more than anyone expected. Then we look at what might be next for this cast as they juggle personal issues and public drama. And of course, we touch on upcoming shows because reality TV never sleeps.
Chapters
00:00 New Year Cheers and Bravo Gossip
02:07...
Charmingly Toxic - Bravo Breakdown
This week, Joanne and I dive into the latest Bravo drama across three franchises:
✨ Summer House Trailer (02:06)– Out with the old, in with the newbies. Will Kyle and Amanda’s marriage end as the season closes?
✈ RHOSLC Greece Trip (07:27)– The ladies are fighting over who’s more superficial… spoiler: it’s all of them.
🍸 Southern Charm Season 11 (27:02)– Craig vs. Austen is clearly the storyline, and we are here for the bad edit Craig is getting.
The Challenge Finale – Absolute madness. They could have died climbing that mountain — hands down the hardest finish yet. Olivia is a beast, wi...
Unpacking the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives
SLOMW shows how power, culture, and fame collide. In these marriages, LDS traditions clash with modern realities. Friendships bend under jealousy and social media clout, where followers equal leverage. But underneath it all, you see stunted emotional maturity — fast fame pushing impulsive decisions and poor choices. Mormon culture demands perfection and conformity, while fame forces reinvention before these women are ready. It’s the paradox of breaking free from tradition while still being tied to it.
👉 Who really holds the power — in marriages, friendships, and online.
👉 The emotional toll of fame, scandal, and cultural expectations.
👉 The p...
RHSLC Season 6, Episode 16 & Southern Charm Season 11, Episode 2
This week we’re drowning in Bravo nonsense — and we are loving every second of it!
👉 Todd and Kandi's divorce...who has more power in that relationship?
👉 Andy states that Jen Shaw will not appear on RHSLC?! Why not?
👉 Sally’s storyline — real or fake? We dig into whether Sally’s narrative is being manufactured for the cameras. Is the truth about her dating a married man being hidden from viewers?
👉Charlie & Whitner’s role What do these two actually bring to the table?
👉The tired trope of older men + younger women Fans are o...
Charmingly Toxic – RHOSLC & Southern Charm Recap
This week we’re diving deep into Bravo chaos with a double recap:
👉 RHOSLC Season 6, Episodes 10 & 11 – The ladies confront Meredith about being black‑out drunk, forgetting the situation, and why she needs to apologize. We unpack the motives behind apologies in this group — are they genuine, strategic, or just damage control?
👉 Southern Charm Season 11, Episode 1 – Alcohol once again takes center stage, shaping storylines and stirring drama. We debate who’s the biggest liar among the men, and why women keep chasing them for a storyline.
👉 BravoCon Gossip – From whispers in the hallways to headline‑making shade, we...
Murdaugh - Death in the Family (Episodes 5-10 Recap)
In this episode, we dive into the complex and heartbreaking dynamics explored in Episodes 5-10 of Hulu's Murdaugh: Death in the Family.
👉 Buster's Struggle: We reflect on Buster's painful journey as he tries to reconcile the duality of this father - wondering if someone can be both a loving parent and a monster at the same time.
👉 Narcissists as Victims: We examine how narcissists often twist the narrative, playing the victim to gain sympathy, attention, and control, leaving those around them confused and manipulated.
👉 Maggie's Sister's Strength: We highlight the quiet resilience of Maggie's...
RHOSLC Recap
“Yachts, unicorns, and a plane meltdown Bravo didn’t catch—Episodes 8 & 9 of #RHOSLC are a masterclass in narcissist bullying and social media manipulation. Charmingly Toxic breaks it down.”
The yacht trip wasn’t about luxury—it was about power plays. Lisa and Meredith proved they’re absolute pros at gaslighting, twisting every confrontation and minimizing the situation. Meanwhile, Britani was quietly pushed to “fight back,” but when she did, she crumbled under the vicious bullying that defines this group.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism...
The Illusion of Love in Narcissistic Relationships Recaps Murdaugh: Death in the Family Epsiodes 1-4 on Hulu
This conversation delves into the complexities of narcissistic relationships and recaps Murdaugh: Death in the Family Epsiodes 1-4 on Hulu, particularly how individuals in these dynamics often cling to illusions of love and idealized perceptions of their partners. It explores the emotional manipulation involved and the impact of these fantasies on the victims' reality.
👉 "The narcissist creates these fantasies that come true"
👉 "It's not true love that he's showing"
👉 "She always thinks he's going to be better"
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—...
Prosecco Dreams and Reality TV Schemes
In this episode we discuss various topics, including my favorite Prosecco, the dynamics of 'Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,' and the crossover with 'Below Deck.' We delve into the relationships and drama among the cast members, highlighting key moments and personal insights.
👉 "Silt Bar Prosecco is the best."
👉 "Mary expects too much from Angie."
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on screen and off.
Connect with Me
📸 Instagram: @denise_supp...
Behind the Curtain: The Realities of Love is Blind
Let's talk about the intricacies and behind-the-scenes realities of "Love is Blind." We delve into the authenticity of relationships formed, the influence of production on participants' decisions, and the emotional impact on those involved. Eleanor shares insights from her perspective as a naturopathic doctor, while I provide commentary on the show's dynamics and the participants' behaviors.
👉 The audience is much smarter now.
👉 I think it's a disaster all over.
Along the way, we connect the dots between reality TV drama and real-life relational patterns—exploring how power, narcissism, and control show up both on scree...
Inside Bravo: Arrests, Reunions, and Revelations
In this lively discussion, we dive into the latest happenings in the Bravo universe, focusing on the Real Housewives franchises. We explore the recent arrest of Dr. Wendy from the Real Housewives of Potomac and the dynamics of the Real Housewives of Miami reunion. The conversation also touches on the Salt Lake City series, highlighting Mary's church and the ongoing drama between cast members. Throughout, Joanne and Charmingly Toxic share their candid opinions, humorous insights, and predictions for future episodes.
👉 I can't stop laughing!
👉 I think she's great for the show.
Along the way, w...
Bonus Episode: No Winners in Denver?!
We dive deep into the dynamics of relationships portrayed in the reality show 'Love is Blind.' Explore various couples, analyzing their interactions, emotional maturity, and the impact of external factors like alcohol and competition. The conversation touches on themes of authenticity, toxicity, and the societal pressures faced by contestants. We discuss the motivations behind contestants' participation in reality TV. Overall, the episode provides insightful commentary on modern dating and the complexities of human relationships.
Click HERE for Kavya's Poetry Book: Mindscapes
👉 "I think he prefers skinnier women."
👉 "They just want a place to sta...
The Plath Family Cult
In this episode we discuss the dynamics of the Plath family and explore themes of family influence, the struggles of the children, particularly Ethan and Mariah, and the impact of parenting styles on their development. The discussion delves into Olivia's role in Ethan's life, the cult-like dynamics of the family, and the financial control exerted by Kim. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of the Plath children and the toxicity present in their relationships.
👉 "They all get pulled back to the cult."
👉 "What parent wants that?"
Along the way, we connect the do...