Guest Episode: Jason Wahler

Laguna Beach’s resident Bad Boy, Jason Wahler, is in the hot seat and nothing is off-limits. Jason shares what happened with Alex M, Jessica Smith, and Lauren Conrad. He also opens up about his struggle with alcoholism and its impact on his reality television career and after.
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About Back To The Beach: A podcast hosted by Kristin Cavallari and Stephen Colletti that takes listeners back through their iconic 2004 television show “Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County.” Tune in as the former sweethearts rewatch episodes for the first time in 18 years and re-live their high school experience all over again revealing which fights were real, which hookups got complicated, and of course, what really happened in Cabo
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[@BigYoch43]

Jason smiled more in the first 5 minutes of this video than he did the entire time he was on LB.

[@abbbylauren8670]

Jason is amazing I love him ❤

[@swiminthesea6724]

It’s unreal how different this man is

[@aqueenaija]

Not true. He smiled alot on the Hills

[@pineappleice100]

@@aqueenaija the comment says Laguna beach, not the hills……

[@audreyb1935]

He looks healthy and happy that's great to see

[@jenniferg1234]

I always love how Kristin just listens and lets guests TALK

[@christinak.1357]

I have noticed that too. She is a great listener

[@beardedham5983]

Thank you for pointing this out. Stephen is such a cool guy, but he loves to bring a conversation back to him.

[@ell4875]

She was a good listener in the LB series too. Good quality to have

[@ell4875]

I was at the 2004 VMAs in Miami! I remember sering Nick Lacgey and Jessica arguing in a hotel downtown and saw Usher and Diddy at Mansion and Fat Joe at B.E.D.!

[@ariellesteinberg9863]

Unlike that other podcast that’s currently on

[@jen-a-purr]

Jason is the Mike The Situation of Laguna Beach Alumni. He is so much better now. Perfect attitude now. Smiles so much.

[@philiplogan1739]

Proof that Kristin and Stephen could continue doing a podcast series pretty much discussing ANYTHING! Was captivated watching / listening to this!

[@brian4878]

who

[@tlcinva67]

Yes! Last week I said we need to find other things for them to talk about after LB ends. Please!!

[@KylieVitelli-jf8cy]

33:01 I love when he mentions that he was happy with Lauren. The other podcast hosts (in the Was It Real podcast) are so critical of her, and it’s sweet that he confirms that they had a real relationship and she allowed him to be himself

[@xoxdesire]

Are the hosts Audrina and Brody? i haven't watched it but I seen a thumbnail. Interesting that they are critical of her.

[@KylieVitelli-jf8cy]

@@xoxdesire yes! Don’t watch, it’s not worth it 😂 Heidi is on the podcast as well and they tear Lauren to shreds and blame her for everything. It’s interesting to hear a different point of view, but they don’t seem to take accountability for anything and their episodes are all over the place

[@itsjustme2557]

They don't tear Lauren down in Was it Real podcast. They are really just sharing their experience with Lauren. Everyone has different experiences, I can have a great friend that has been an amazing person in my life but someone else can look at my friend and say they were horrible to them. People are always different with who they encounter and what experience they have had with them. They also do take accountability for their actions there very aware of their mistakes and how young they were and being in the pressure of being of television.

[@moniquelee3873]

They blame everything on Lauren

[@xicaclothing6637]

@@KylieVitelli-jf8cy girl, this comment is making me want to go watch it!!! 🤣😂🤣

[@glassslippers]

It's great to hear Jason's story and see where he is now. I'm kinda bummed you didn't really ask him many questions about the show though, like the kiss with Jessica while he was dating Lauren at the fashion show, the prank he pulled on the girls poker night, when he went to prom with Alex when he was dating Jessica, the Jessica breakup, what he thought of the Jessica/Alex cabo fight, etc. Would have been nice to get some answers! So thankful he's in a great place now 🩷.

[@smartmarketing173]

How they didn’t ask about the fashion show kiss I’ll never understand 🤷🏻‍♀️major plot point of the show.

[@SSssss-iy3vl]

I KNOW RIGHT!!! 😭😭😭 i hate when interviewers get sidetracked!!

[@candiland2484]

They haven’t gotten to the fashion episode yet. They are rewatching the episodes as they do the podcast.

[@SSssss-iy3vl]

@@candiland2484 yes but for the one episode that Jason was there they could have asked him!! So next time they’ll wTch the episode they’ll be like „oh I wish we had asked Jason“ 😩 why not ask him while he’s there?!

[@SAlina-se9xq]

I get the disappointment but Jason admitted later he was totally smashed when he kissed Jessica.

[@brianastombaugh5538]

Kristin is such a great listener & asks really intelligent questions. Stephen also asks amazing questions & has a talent in steering the conversation, but in a kind manner. Such an incredible duo!!!

[@lisac1780]

I always thought Kristin was so pretty on the show, such natural beauty. And I loved her confidence. But now as a grown woman she is even more beautiful and just seems like such a genuine person.

[@livinglifewithlaura2256]

I’m so proud of Jason, but as a viewer.. I wanted more Jessica tea 😅

[@Teonshay_isher]

Me too so bad 😂😊

[@itscmznews180]

They missed an opportunity i don’t understand! Like they need him back on

[@vanessagalindo5436]

Same!!! I’m happy for him turning his life around but this was an odd episode to me bc he barely talked abt it and just said he didn’t remember. It was all long winded abt him being sober.

[@vanessagalindo5436]

@@itscmznews180agree!!!

[@livinglifewithlaura2256]

@@vanessagalindo5436 right?! That should’ve been on “where are they now” episode. We want the TEA 😢🥲

[@jouaa]

I'm really glad they allowed Jason to talk about his journey and not dig into the drama from his teenage years and what was on the show. Change of pace and direction for this episode but this was great and very necessary!

[@AbiCroCro]

Kristin saying “no, I love it” when Jason apologised for talking brought tears to my eyes. I’m so sorry for her loss of her brother and can imagine she truly does love hearing the perspective of a peer of his who made it through.

[@JB11334]

Time stamp?

[@Mkay999]

19:37

[@tarachristine5727]

I didn't know she lost her brother. The one we saw on the show?! That's so sad

[@AbiCroCro]

@@tarachristine5727 it’s so sad. I saw an interview with K somewhere on here about it.

[@steib294]

😢😢Soo sad

[@nicholecampbell6577]

Wow hard to believe this is the same person. He is so articulate and thoughtful! I am a big fan of his now. I wish they dug into the episode more because I would love to understand why on earth he kissed Jessica at the fashion show while he was dating Lauren, and whether that was real or manufactured. Still such a great interview!!!! I loved seeing how far he’s come. Great guy.

[@stacyplayer6025]

Oh that's right! That question should have been asked

[@jennifermorgan1887]

Yes! Definitely want to know more about that episode! Guess we have to wait till Jessica comes on their podcast!

[@itscmznews180]

Since he lives down the street I need them to have him back on! They did not delve into the relationship with Jessica that basically put him on the map lol! I’m pissed lol

[@jennifervergara029]

This needed to be longer 😭 I really hope they all continue a podcast, so nice to hear from Jason & how well he’s doing❤

[@marykoontz6640]

absolutely LOVE seeing Jason so happy, healthy, strong, and influential!!! What an incredible accomplishment!

[@amandadavis4446]

Tbh i never thought Jason would make it due to his addiction... Mad respect to him... Very proud of him

[@StellaAdler_]

Me too and im so glad he's doing well.

[@Random6015]

This is so far my favorite episode and i love them all. I love how honest Jason is, and is in all his interviews. But i love that you all allow each other to speak, you all laugh together and you don’t blame editing or LC for everything 😂

[@jennifermorgan1887]

Oh, you’ve been watching/listening to The Hills, Was it Real podcast too, huh? Yea, very disappointing. Especially w/ Audrina. Frankie thinks the show was called “Frankie: The Hills”, as Andrew the producer said 😂 He’s so upset about not being shown more on tv. And Heidi, well she blames everything on Lauren, producers or they were “acting”, instead of taking responsibility for their actions. Ok, rant over! Love this podcast & Whitney & Timmy’s too! Timmy is so funny!

[@heathert.4637]

💯

[@shesaidwhattoyou9613]

Wow Jason is such a likable person. I loved that you all allowed time for him to share his story and shed light on real life issues. The personal growth is admirable. Jason just became my favorite LB cast memeber

[@liymaf]

This podcast was in my recommended & the way I SCREAMED when I saw it! If I could go back & tell my 5th-8th grade self I'd be watching Laguna Beach peeps at almost 30, while doing my family's laundry, about to put my 2 kids down for a nap...She'd be SHOCKED!lmaooo I immediately subscribed & can't wait to see more podcasts cause the nostalgia is REAL! I'm here for it & am excited to see y'all thriving!🥹👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@kaminipersaud8997]

The nostalgia is so real!!!!

[@kaisapolvikoski2277]

Ahhhh this comment made me so happy, I am totally with you. I re-watched the full series recently, after simultaneously listening to this podcast. It held such reminiscent moments in life and just like you said nostalgia.

[@NBean90]

This was done in such good taste! So happy for Jason and his success in life, health and overall wellness. Kristin and Stephen this was such a good idea!

[@colleenkelly1025]

Wow this was my favorite episode - really blown way and moved by Jason and how far he’s come! This really made me happy 😊

[@jamiecoppernoll]

We definitely need a part 2 with Jason! It’s so good to see him and how far he’s truly come and overcome addiction! He seems like such a sweet guy🤍

[@playingwithpolygel]

I really couldn't stand Jason. Now, knowing what he went through I feel bad and I see things in a different light. I actually like the guy and am proud of what he's advocating for

[@ChristyStew]

Can I just say how very proud I am of Jason? Recovery isn't easy. I am 3 years, 4 months sober myself and I know how difficult it is. (All thanks to God 🙌🏼) I'm proud of him for sharing his experience, strength and hope because someone watching this today may be able to say "if he can do it, so can I!" Addiction has no respecter of persons and it can happen to anyone. It is through our testimonies that others can find hope and freedom from the disease of addiction. Jason, you once congratulated me on my sobriety and I am still cheering for you also! 🎉 Love ya Kristin and Steven also, ❤

[@TheVanessamarief]

Congrats on your sobriety 🎉Keep up the good work

[@thatb5469]

Congrats on being sober. Prayers up to you 🙏

[@TheNeuroticjetfan]

Congratulations!

[@CourtneyLynn630]

Next month is 2 years for me, and what I LOVED what he said was that in the beginning of his sobriety he went back to his childhood hobbies and going back outside and I could totally relate to that. I love seeing him in this healthy head space, I can only hope that people that knew me back when would see me the same as I’m looking at him now ❤

[@heathert.4637]

Love this comment ❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻 to you

[@joshuakteal]

Jason is a great interviewee! Stephen is always trying to saint himself instead of just owning up to his stuff and moving on.

[@jaye5055]

It's annoying when he always got make it about him, trying to be sure to let everyone know it wasn't the real him. Over and over and over yet again. Let Jason talk about his story without bringing yourself into it. Ugh.

[@michk2688]

Agreed I love how Kristin has owned up to literally everything and accepted that she was young and immature. Can Stephen do the same and MOVE ON and not talk about it anymore lol

[@Laura-mc92]

I mean there’s not much for him to own up to. He was literally the most normal guy ever as a male reality show lead. Everyone knows a Stephen. Aside from the Cabo incident, I don’t remember him doing anything bad.

[@lovelettersandlace]

@@Laura-mc92 Same. I didn't even think his Cabi thing was THAT bad, most guys I knew in hs would have acted like that in that scenario.

[@joshuakteal]

@@Laura-mc92 then why does he always feel the need to double down on how he was edited and they made it seem like he was playing 2 girls? LC was absolutely his rebound and he was using her to make Kristin jealous. That is certainly a very normal high school guy thing to do, but quit trying to blame everything on editing.

[@kristinlynn429]

Jason smiled and spoke more in this hour than he did all of laguna beach and the hills combined. I love that he’s so open with his journey with sobriety and how honest he is … I’m sure at some point he’s told his story but this was great. He really could help so many people that are struggling. I like this Jason so much more!!

[@cindyjean14]

Love hearing Jason's story. For me, seeing folks get sober and have their lives improve immeasurably is one of the greatest motivators to staying sober.

[@lovelettersandlace]

So glad Jason got his life together, it was stressful as a viewer to see him struggling so much back then. I really rooted for him and Lauren back in the day, hoping would get help. Glad to see he's so happy and doing well now, he seems like a great guy!

[@DreaminJapanese]

My man J Wahl. glad to see hes doing well

[@jenniferg1234]

This should have been 2 podcasts. Literally nothing much on Jessica, Alex or Lauren. What about the fashion show?! Really now.

[@Coast2Coast88]

I feel Jason grew the most. He’s a completely different person than his teenage years

[@amirahgood8033]

Almost fell outta my desk chair when I got this notification! Lol yesss! Jason!

[@MrsBrittanyGold]

We need Jason back for a part two lol

[@babydollab]

Great episode!!!❤I love that Jason gave glory to God! What a testimony!

[@beevee4157]

Yes!! That part was the best ❤️

[@melanobullata3585]

A walking testimony of God’s grace 🙏🏾 God bless you Jason, your purpose is powerful!

[@kayladouglas2063]

You really don’t know what people are dealing with. This was a great episode with Jason, his struggles with addiction and how well he is doing now. I loved this episode.

[@jaclyncollins-schmitt4549]

38 years old and Jason is still my TV crush! So happy to see him healthy and happy. Great episode!

[@veronicamarieme]

I know this was recorded a year ago, but it’s so cool to see them all together again! Everybody looks great! Good to see Jason make a better life for himself and doing well.

[@nightndayz]

A year ago?? Omg I didn’t know I thought maybe a month

[@k18vD]

@@nightndayz: I also thought it was a few months ago!

[@lovelettersandlace]

Stephen was at Kristin's a month or so ago I believe, few weeks before her cookbook came out. This definitely wasn't a year ago.

[@candiland2484]

The three of them posted a pic from her front porch last year when they first mentioned him being on the podcast in a future episode. It was many many many months ago.

[@sarahrupert5320]

@@candiland2484 ok, so definitely a few months ago, but not a year ago, right? Not that it really matters I guess… 😆

[@SimsGirl4Ever]

Glad to see that Jason has turned his life around. Looking forward to hearing from Jessica!

[@casmacable]

I wish this were longer. I was expecting more insight from Jason. But like he said, he can't remember a lot of details. I felt like Stephen tries to bring a lot of the focus back to himself and his actions on the show. It's starting to sound repetitive. I think he needs to focus more on the guest and their experience. But I still loved listening to it. Well done Jason

[@leratosiwela9251]

I agree but also think its more of him trying to make them feel like they are in good company and can somewhat relate even in the smallest way…

[@leathompson2155]

I love this....i am a super duper Laguna Beach/The Hills FAN!!!!❤❤❤❤

[@sh.boogies]

I'm also a recovering alcoholic and it's so interesting to watch back this show now, knowing how to spot addiction and its consequences. You can see Jason was struggling even back during LB. He's been a fighter since such a young age. Imagine having to get sober at 23 being pretty well-known and in that community. Its hard at 23 just because of the partying aspect, everyone you know drinks. So happy for him.

[@katievandaele3796]

I was a Jason fan back then, and I’m a bigger Jason fan after watching this. I’m so proud of his accomplishments. Congratulations on your sobriety Jason!!!!

[@user-ny8oc7yx8b]

Bro I did not expect Jason to age so well goddamn. All of them!!!!! I love it

[@sarahrupert5320]

I know this was a fairly long episode, but I would have loved for it to be even longer. Great, great interview, although a few more questions about his relationships on the show would have been cool. I’m just so glad that Jason has come so far & seems truly happy now.

[@trpicaro]

truly blown away by Jason 😭💗

[@FrankieMLAX]

This was such a great conversation. You are doing such a fantastic job discussing the show but also weaving in your opinions and experiences while at the same time not criticizing anyone and taking accountability for things you did as kids. Honestly, other podcasts can take pointers from you guys on how to do this in a positive, candid, and entertaining way. Congrats!

[@britt8099]

That makes me so sad that Jason essentially had a fuzzy memory of 18-23 that’s such a monumental time. I give him so much props for coming out of it and seeing him today having a happy life

[@jamiewilson9404]

Irritating that Stephen kept referring to himself instead of letting Jason talk. This is an episode many people were waiting for to hear from Jason’s point of view

[@NatiVspi]

This was a great chat! Very informational & educational. I thoroughly enjoy watching y’all! Thank you for all the hard work going into your podcast! 🌿

[@blakelygober4241]

Finally a video. Y'all need to do more. I love it

[@audray28]

Jason radiated such a positive energy during this episode! it was great to listen to his storty

[@tee6187]

Love these on KZbin!! Hearing Jason's story was so interesting.

[@simonejulee1111]

Jason! So appreciate your openness and honesty!

[@sannucca3343]

I love the mature tone of this podcast comparing to The Hills so called "rewatch". I think the difference is that these people are confident in who they are and they don't need to blame everyone else. These guys are not living in someone else's shadow.

[@alexakearney]

I LOVE Kristins laugh. This is the best !

[@taracochran]

Finding this podcast, and this episode in particular, has made me exponentially happy!

[@annienguyen7883]

I still have so many questions unanswered! Wish they dove deeper into the Jessica/Alex drama

[@Liz-S89]

This is iconic- feel like it’s so enjoyable to see them reminiscing, reminds me of running into people from my small town high school. Super fun to watch, love you guys! Thanks for making this🤘🏽

[@lobaybe5]

Loved this one so much ! I’m so so so happy for him 🫶🏼

[@Moefurryfriends]

I loved this episode. I’m so happy for Jason!

[@brittanygreenberg3607]

I’m living for this episode I LOVE A GOOD COMEBACK STORY Laguna Beach and The Hills was more than my show I was OBSESSED

[@nightndayz]

ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS EPISODE. It was so interesting to hear. Happy for Jason

[@jennsara305]

I’m so happy for Jason (and his parents)!❤

[@annikanal03]

this podcast makes my heart smile 🥹🥰

[@lala19877]

When I tell y'all I have been waiting for this one 😍

[@racquealwinkle5258]

I’m so happy for Jason

[@rachelhansen8126]

So happy to see Jason happy and healthy!

[@MissStolen1]

I just lovet that you talked about his addiction, and that you listened him. And he is very relaxed here. Amazing episode

[@shelbysmith9878]

I think this was the best one yet! Loved this. Also love they are close and hanging out again. We need a new show with all of them and their lives now

[@Bjh-ot2xz]

So happy for Jason.

[@GenF91]

Such a great interview. Really glad Jason finally came on 😊. Glad he’s doing well!

[@silviatunnell8514]

Jason rocks!! I've been following him post show for years because of how much of an inspiration he is to me. We share recovery experiences, and I truly admire the way he has used his platform to spread love & hope. ♡

[@tinashanelle]

This episode has been the most awaited one I’ve felt since I was a teen! 15 years later waiting to hear from Jason!

[@stephaniek1153]

Listening this just made my night. It’s so nice to hear how Jason got his addiction and substance abuse under control and has been giving back. It’s really nice to hear how much he’s grown.

[@gabriellebello8918]

Wow ! I could totally listen to these 3 for a couple more episodes

[@chelseadavis5366]

I’m so happy I love all of them!

[@doloresmedina8759]

Such a good episode. So glad Jason is doing well🙏🏿❤️

[@kristinfritz2394]

Favorite episode by far! I didn't know how much I needed this in my life. Bless her heart😂

[@VincentRSoto]

this was amazing. really important for people to hear.

[@sugeirymarmol7122]

This was so nostalgic for me when the questions about the show were brought up. What an great episode ! Great interview & Jason congrats on your positive outcome & sobriety . You are a true inspiration . Also still a stud!

[@89Drmz]

Love this ❤️ We need a part 2 with Jason! Even if it’s virtual

[@amirahgood8033]

So good to hear from Jason and his perspective on things and glad to see the man he's become. It's obvious that he's in a much better space in his life. He looks great. Awesome suff! ❤

[@zandriacurran7654]

I did not!!!! Want this episode to end. If it were 5 hours long I would listen to every second! I wish it was a part 1 of 10

[@lisadondlinger3138]

This is an excellent interview. Compelling questions, honest sincere answers. I hope many people are helped with this information!

[@zoenatale1028]

Jason is very inspiring, and seems like such a genuine and great person!! Wish this episode was longer!!

[@Ggigi34]

Jason it’s the Man, he is truly a miracle and doing a great job influencing others to do better.

[@TheShanc22]

So proud of Jason and how far he has come in his life. What a great Podcast!

[@MaryamMo]

This really is a fantastic podcast. I listen whilst I'm cleaning, cooking and it just makes mundane everyday tasks so much more enjoyable. I'm so happy to see that Jason has made such a positive change in his life. A true inspiration ❤

[@Fartnerd]

I always thought that Jason liked Jessica because he was just an immature high school boy who liked her “assets” and the fact that her parents let him “sleep over.” I was so happy to hear him be honest and actually say this in a funny and endearing way.

[@evjann1110]

I absolutely loved this podcast episode! I hope to see him on another one ❤

[@NoName-mm4qf]

Who would’ve thought that Jason would be the family guy and Stephen would be the unmarried one with no kids lol

[@SteBolibomba]

LOL 😂

[@ct6852]

Getting sober sometimes means hanging on to a partner for dear life. Actually not that surprised. If he was still using I would be surprised...but not now.

[@helenkorniyasova6075]

@@ct6852 not necessarily. They always suggest to not be in a relationship while trying to maintain your sobriety

[@ct6852]

@@helenkorniyasova6075 Oh that's interesting. Didn't know that. Thought maybe that would be true for the first six months or so...but would think a relationship would be important for maintenance. Then again it would be very hard on the partner if they were to become some kind of substitute codependent-type addiction.

[@J.alexandra-3]

Such a nostalgic podcast! My fav episode so far. Massively appreciate the awareness around substance abuse. Super insightful and informative for everyone but more so young teens and young adults. Thank you Jason for your vulnerability and honestly. Proud of your sobriety journey 🫶🏼

[@Moss_Pillows]

Absolutely loved this episode❤ hearing someone advocate for sobriety is so beautiful! Glad to be 10 years sober this year!

[@cdubb203]

Super proud of you Jason!

[@marlene9391]

It’s amazing how. Jason shares all of this it takes a lot but so many people need to hear that especially people who are going through or went through the same thing

[@ashleymarie5233]

So excited for this one, guys! ❤️ Really proud of Jason..👏 Please try N’ do the video podcasts (I’m sure you are) but, just had to say how I especially love seeing your beautiful faces 😍 lol world of difference! 💕

[@isabellalarocca5627]

It is so inspiring hearing how well Jason is doing❤ he really is a beacon of hope!

[@snb_angels]

Awww, Jason 🥰 It is great seeing him healthy and happy 😁 Thanks for always being honest, Jason 💖💖

[@ft_ph]

Another great episode. Took me back to my youth because I am a fan of the show. I appreciate the honesty and truth from Jason, as a viewer I was unaware of his struggle - but I never hated him, I always loved the people on the show despite their differences and their actions. That’s what is unique in the show - you both want the best for each person, like with Kristin and Lauren. Thank you for this episode - probably the most open, personal and helpful episode. ❤

[@williamgibson5191]

This kids awesome. Great story. He was a great party character-but such a great guy now family man. So cool to see