Linnethia "NeNe" Leakes is a native of Queens, New York, and mother of 18-year-old Brice and 9-year-old Brentt. She’s married to Gregg, an über-successful real estate investor. A greater Atlanta resident for more than two decades, NeNe is carefree, outgoing and a lover all things fabulous. She’s a former model and founder of The Twisted Hearts Foundation, which brings awareness to the issue of domestic violence. She’s also planning on opening a boutique hotel.

ESSENCE.COM: So NeNe, you seem very excited about the show! Tell us about it.

NENE LEAKES: I’m very excited about “The Real...