RHOC's Leanne Brown talks 'difficult' six years and star she'd love to see on hit show

Iconic Real Housewives of Cheshire star Leanne Brown is making her return to the show for the new series, as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. The designer and former reality star was involved in numerous explosive storylines - many revolving around her feud with fellow housewife Dawn Ward.

Leanne, who is also known for her 25-year-long relationship with ex-husband, former Manchester United player Wes Brown. In an exclusive chat, the 48-year-old opened up on what's in store for her return and what she's been up to since waving goodbye to the drama-filled reality show...

Leanne, how does it feel to be back on the show?

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It was really fun, seeing the girls again - and it was nice not to be in the centre of the drama this time!

We are celebrating a decade on screen, how have you changed as a person throughout this period of time?

I think anyone that has followed me can see the transition I have been through. I have watched some of the scenes back on the show (mainly the spicy ones on YouTube ) and it’s like watching someone else at times. The last 6 years have been the most difficult, but also the most wonderful. I have learned more about the world, myself, my friendships, the mind, the body, health, it’s been absolutely mind-blowing but everything is exactly as it is meant to be. I have experienced the most growth because I have turned my whole life upside down. As one of the famous quotes by Rumi states ‘the wound is where the light enters’. That’s definitely what it feels like.

How has life been treating you since RHOCH?

Back in 2017, I began my empowerment journey, partnering with the charity‘One Woman at a Time to sponsor young girls in Kenya who were at risk of FGM, forced marriage, and gender-based violence. When I traveled to Kenya, it was a world apart from the glamorous scenes of Cheshire. It was one of the most humbling experiences of my life. Since then, I’ve written a book, started a podcast (which got censored along with my Instagram ), and now, I’m empowering others through my wellness coaching program, aimed at women in midlife. I’ve called it the Midlife Awakening Method. It’s a brand-new project I’ve been pouring my heart into and I’m so excited to share it with like-minded women who need a little guidance in this stage of life. Things can get pretty crazy out here!

Tell us more about the 'crazy'...

The last five years especially have been a crazy whirlwind. I like to call it a ‘Beautiful Destruction’—I had to completely dismantle my old life to truly find myself. Along the way, I also co-own a retreat business with my partner, Sophie. We named it Eat Pray & Self Love, inspired by one of my favourite films, which perfectly resonates with my own journey of self-discovery.

It’s been a true labor of love, and we’ve had the privilege of working with both men and women, hosting retreats in the UK, Portugal and Mexico. This year, we’re taking the retreat to France, where we’ll be staying at a stunning chateau. I’ve been trying to get a few of the girls to come and I really think they could use it! Let’s be honest, who doesn’t need a bit of zen in their life, especially after one of those RHOCH dinner parties?!

What do you hope to be doing in another decade’s time?

Wow, in just 10 years, I’ll be approaching my 60th birthday! Yikes!! That really puts things into perspective. I can’t picture myself still living in the UK by then; my dream is to be in my beach house, which proudly sits on my vision board. I envision myself hopelessly in love with the man of my dreams, watching sunsets from the porch, looking out over the ocean.

I'm so excited to see my girls grow, chase their dreams, fall in love, and eventually become mothers themselves. I feel incredibly blessed to have them, they are my WHY. Everything I do, every decision I’ve made, every step I take, is for them. They inspire me to step into my authentic power, and that energy fuels my drive to help empower others through my coaching, courses, books and whatever else life brings my way. My vision is to build a legacy of empowering women and I can see it all coming together with a strong team behind me.

What big lessons have you learned so far?

One thing I’ve really come to understand through all the changes in my life is that while money gives you freedom and choices, it doesn’t provide happiness on its own. I’ve come to see more clearly that it’s not the material things that matter. Yes, of course, I will live in a beautiful home, drive a nice car, but when once owning a Chanel bag and a wardrobe full of designer clothes were something I was so proud of, I now realise that what truly holds value is time and the experiences we create. Time is the most precious commodity we have, yet it’s so often the most overlooked. The world moves at such a fast pace, but right now, I’m in a place where I can truly appreciate the highs, the lows and even the spaces in between.

If you could go back and give advice to your 10-year-old self, what would you tell her?

If I could go back to my 10-year-old self with the wisdom I’ve gained from everything I’ve witnessed and experienced, I would tell her: don’t be afraid of your light. Although it may attract those who will attempt to dim it, don’t be fooled. Always trust your instincts. If someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time. Be grateful for even the smallest things, because it’s in those moments where the real magic lies. When things get tough, know that all is well and the universe always has your back. Get back up and never give up. And remember, you are only in competition with yourself. Every day, aim to be better than yesterday.

Can you remember what you did for your 10th birthday?

I think I had a fancy-dress party I dressed up as a doll or a princess - I had about 6 friends over for a tea party. I think my Lola had a full-on spa day, for her 10th! Oh how times have changed. She has just turned 14, Halle is 22 and Lilia is going to be 18 this year. When I watch the show back, when it started, they are so tiny. Time goes by in a heartbeat, one minute you’re 10 years old the next you’re getting asked what you will be doing when you’re nearly 60!!!

Why did you choose to return to the show this year?

Like I said, I never thought I would, but I did come back for the boxing match against Rachel. To be honest, I haven't seen her since, so it was really good to catch up. We even had a little sparring session, don’t worry, I didn’t break her nose again... just kidding! No, seriously, me and Rachel are cool and it was so nice to see her, especially to see that her nose was still intact, phew!

Anyway, how could I not return? That part of my journey has been so important, no matter how tough it was when I left. It’s pushed me onto the path I’m on now, and I honestly don’t believe in regrets. I’ve worked through all the pain from the past and realised that holding onto it only hurts you. You’ve got to let it go. I may forgive, but I definitely don’t forget! It just felt right to make an appearance. And like I said, I loved it, so who knows what the future holds!

Who would you love to see return for this series?

I think it’s easier to say who I would prefer not to see on this series haha!

Who would you love to see join the RHOC?

Coleen Rooney. I wonder what she would make of all the drama. Loved watching her in I’m a Celebrity she was incredible. So brave, maybe it would be more of a challenge to dodge the drama on RHOCH than the cockroaches in the jungle!

As one of the iconic RHOCH OG’s, what is your biggest bit of advice for any of the new housewives?

Know who you are, be your authentic self, but just check your back for daggers when you get home!

The Real Housewives of Cheshire returns to ITVBe on Monday 3 March, at 9pm