In a captivating new podcast episode, Bethenny Frankel dissects Kim Kardashian’s transformation into a confident business mogul, observing that her ‘old money’ swagger now dictates her wildly successful SKIMS launches, even sparking chatter about ‘bush underwear.’
The entrepreneurial world is buzzing, and at its center are two titans of reality television turned business moguls: Bethenny Frankel and Kim Kardashian. Frankel, known for her candid commentary, recently turned her discerning eye to Kardashian’s latest SKIMS launch, particularly the much-talked-about “bush underwear.” However, her observations extended far beyond the product itself, delving into Kardashian’s profound evolution as a businesswoman and her newfound, almost intimidating, confidence.
The “Bush Underwear” Catalyst and Kim’s Billionaire Swag
On her “Just B with Bethenny Frankel” podcast, during the episode titled “It’s Kim Kardashian’s World,” Frankel didn’t mince words. She remarked that Kardashian, at 45, has reached a level of influence where “if Kim Kardashian urinated in a glass and sells it, she could make millions of dollars on that.” This hyperbolic statement underscores the immense power of Kardashian’s brand and her ability to generate buzz and revenue from virtually anything she touches.
Frankel delved deeper into the fundamental shift she perceives in Kardashian’s approach to business. She noted, “Anything they do is going to clickbait succeed. But I do believe being an entrepreneur is about longevity and ideas are about longevity. There’s a difference between being successful in business and being a billionaire. There’s a difference in her swag now.” This “swag,” according to Frankel, is akin to “the way someone with old money versus new money acts.” Kardashian now presents her ideas with an undeniable authority, expecting them to materialize regardless of team consensus—an attitude that speaks volumes about her self-assured position in the market, as reported by Parade.
A Five-Year Transformation: From Reality Star to Business Titan
Frankel highlights a significant transformation in Kardashian over the past five years. “She was not this way five years ago,” Frankel asserts, noting a newfound “relaxation and a confidence and a security in her voice” during red carpet interviews or discussions with figures like Alex Cooper. This evolution is unmistakably linked to the meteoric rise of SKIMS, which has consistently delivered buzzy, conversation-starting launches.
From the viral “nipple bras” that dominated social media to the latest faux hair thong underwear, SKIMS has become a masterclass in marketing and product innovation. These launches not only demonstrate Kardashian’s astute business sense but also her willingness to push boundaries and generate dialogue. Frankel suggests that this unparalleled success has left Kardashian with “nothing left to prove.” She is now operating on her own terms, dictating “exactly what she wants, when she wants, and how she wants to do it,” a true mark of an established mogul.
Frankel’s Broader Critique of the Kardashian Empire
While Frankel’s recent comments focus on Kardashian’s entrepreneurial evolution, it’s important to view them within the broader context of her history of outspoken criticism regarding the Kardashian-Jenner family. Her “disdain for the Kardashian family” has been publicly documented on multiple occasions. In August, Frankel slammed Kim Kardashian’s skincare line, SKKN by Kim, on TikTok, labeling the products as “impractical at best” and “somewhat overpriced.”
Frankel’s critiques haven’t been limited to products. She famously mocked Kardashian’s lavish 40th birthday trip to a private island, humorously captioning a post, “Took the family to my private (kitchen) island.” Her most comprehensive critique came during an August 18 episode of her podcast, where she called for a “Kardashian intermission,” suggesting the world needed a “brief interruption in service so we can all cleanse our palates and not be waterboarded with ‘Kardashian culture.'” Frankel also directed sharp criticism at matriarch Kris Jenner, stating, “Kris Jenner has got her f***ing elbows out, and they are not letting anybody else in. They want every goddamn dollar that is on that floor.” These strong opinions resonated with fans, with many taking to Twitter to express support for Frankel’s unfiltered take, as reported by Nicki Swift.
The Psychology of Success: What Drives This Evolution?
Frankel concludes her analysis by reflecting on the profound impact of immense success on an individual. “I just find that interesting,” she remarked. “Success will do that to a person. And it might make you nicer, calmer, less desperate, because you made it.” This insight suggests that Kardashian’s current confidence isn’t just about financial accumulation; it’s a byproduct of achieving a level of success that removes the pressures of striving and proving oneself.
This psychological shift could explain the serene and self-assured demeanor Frankel observes. It’s the freedom to innovate, to command, and to operate with unwavering conviction, knowing that the foundation is solid. For fans and business enthusiasts alike, observing this evolution provides valuable insight into the trajectory of modern celebrity entrepreneurship and the transformative power of achieving one’s ultimate goals.
