This is the second in a series of interviews with former reality show contestants, an idea inspired by my new reality show-themed mystery novel Sink or Swim, Where Reality TV Turns to Murder. For more information on Sink or Swim, and the interview schedule which features contestants from Survivor, Top Chef, Beauty and the Geek, Shark Tank, Bachelor Pad, Big Brother and I Love New York, please visit this link.
Today I’m thrilled to have Michelle Costa of Big Brother 10 , The Portuguese Princess, joining me. This is a special interview for me as Michelle has been so supportive of Sink or Swim. Her endorsement appears on the back cover of the paperback and inside the e-book editions, and she also invited me to be a guest on her radio show and has been actively promoting the book on her social networks. I’d really love to see Michelle on Big Brother All Stars! But first, let’s hear her thoughts about being on Big Brother 10.
1. What was the most challenging part about being on Big Brother?
There were a few challenges I faced being in the Big Brother house. I had no access to TV, phone, Internet, reading, writing and singing. And of course, being away from your family and friends for over three months.
2. What was it like to have cameras rolling all the time? How hard was it to get used to?
There were cameras everywhere. We never saw a cameraman as they are behind the walls behind a two-way mirror. I was actually told to stop talking to the cameras so I had no troubles there, lol.
3. What was the best part about being on the show?
The entire experience was amazing during and now the aftermath. The only thing I would have changed was to be the winner and take home the $500,000, ughhhh.
4. What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for a reality show?
The best advice I can give is to be yourself. Never try to be who you think they want. BE YOURSELF.
5. Tell us about your radio show.
My radio show is called MANIC MONDAYS with RAD RON. It’s on blogtalkradio.com and stream thru podcast. We discuss reality TV and sports, but mainly reality TV. It’s been over two years and I love it. (Note: Michelle’s co-host, RAD RON, Ronald “Ron” Radkiewicz, passed away May 31, 2011 shortly after this interview was completed.)
6. What else have you been up to lately? Are you interested in appearing on any other reality shows?
I’ve been working on doing marketing and promotions. I travel all over the USA doing charities and reality events. I want to be on Big Brother All Stars. That’s my next goal. Oh yeah, and to win All Stars.
7. Where can fans find you online?
Fans can follow me on Facebook, Twitter and MySpace.
My next interview is with Betty Fraser from Top Chef on June 3. Bookmark the full interview schedule, with clickable links to the interviews as they become available, here.
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Stacy Juba has written sweet and sassy chick lit novels, mysteries about determined women sleuths, and entertaining books for young adults and children. Her books include the Storybook Valley chick lit series and the Hockey Rivals young adult sports novels.
Stacy is also a freelance developmental editor and online course creator. Sign up for her free masterclass, How to Create Your Editing Game Plan.
Stop by her other websites and blogs: Shortcuts for Writers and Hockey Rivals.
