Kaitlyn Bristowe: Reality TV Journey, DWTS Win, and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Early Reality TV Beginnings

• 💡 Kaitlyn Bristowe initially wanted to be on Big Brother but her friend submitted her for The Bachelor after a breakup.
• 🎯 She was attracted to Chris Soules (the farmer) from watching his previous season and found him even better in person.
• 🎭 Despite being told she was "different" (tattoos, swearing) and fearing she'd be the villain, she became more likable as her season progressed.
• 💔 Her elimination from The Bachelor was a shock, as she was confident Chris would pick her, but a therapist helped her realize he wasn't "her guy."

The Bachelorette & DWTS Journey

• ⚖️ Kaitlyn had a rocky relationship with ABC initially due to her early adoption of social media brand deals, which wasn't covered in her contract.
• 💃 She fought for five years to be allowed to compete on Dancing with the Stars, a lifelong dream, eventually winning Season 29.
• 💪 Despite being a trained dancer, DWTS was intimidating and challenging, requiring her to unlearn techniques and enduring significant physical pain and emotional stress.
• 🏆 Winning the Mirrorball trophy was a high, but the post-show void led to feelings of "now what?"

Navigating Fame and Self-Perception

• 🗣️ Kaitlyn finds online hate harder to deal with now because she shares more of her authentic self, contrasting with the "one-dimensional character" portrayal on early reality TV.
• 🧠 She discusses experiencing imposter syndrome, particularly when recognized by high-profile celebrities, feeling like "just Caitlyn from Alberta, Canada."
• 🎤 A moment of profound confidence came when she hosted a three-hour live finale for The Bachelorette, feeling she truly belonged in that role.
• 🌱 Her current confidence stems from overcoming fears and a conscious effort over five years to improve her self-talk, leading to a sense of deservingness.

Future Aspirations & Current Work

• 📺 Kaitlyn still dreams of being on Big Brother, preferring the regular season over Celebrity Big Brother, despite the challenges of manipulation and potential reputation damage.
• 🚫 She notes the network barrier (ABC vs. CBS) as a potential obstacle for her Big Brother aspirations.
• 🎙️ Her primary focus and favorite endeavor is her podcast, "Off the Vine," which she has hosted for eight years, featuring interviews and solo episodes.
• ✨ She is currently in a "weird phase" regarding new product ventures, with her wine label on hiatus due to factory closure.