The topic of 'Authenticity and Reality TV' examines the complex relationship between the desire for genuine self-expression and the performative nature of reality television.

The podcast episodes provided offer insights into this theme, with #2441 PumpRules S11E18 Part 2: Fall of the Baby Baker discussing the tensions between Lala's push for authenticity and Ariana's decision not to film with Tom Sandoval after his affair, as well as the portrayal of Tom and Ariana's relationship on the show.

Similarly, Disrespectfully - Ariana Madix, What Are You Doing Here? | Episode 21 features Ariana Madix herself discussing her commitment to authenticity and her unwillingness to manufacture drama for the sake of entertainment, particularly in the context of her experience on Vanderpump Rules.