Eaux Kev: Q&A with Kevinnie Drefer

EAUX KEV

Q & A WITH KEVINNIE DREHER

Can you tell us about your journey from being a mom and a nurse to hosting your own television show, Eaux Kev?

Well, in short, timing. I met a guy…at a bar. I was at the right place at the right time. I had just left the Drew Barrymore Show in NYC with my mom last year. We celebrated both of our birthdays on that trip. We went to a rooftop restaurant where a family member was the hostess. She sat us at an awesome table, but anywhere that I go I make sure to stop at the bar. I sat next to this couch in the bar area full of Wall Street men and ordered a French 75. The guy next to me turned and said “You must not be from here with that gin order.” We got to chatting about why I was in town. I expressed how I had just experienced a life changing moment at Drew’s show and if I had a dream job, that would be it. He simply said, “Seriously, you should do it.” Turns out he was an ex-network executive. One thing led to another and a few zoom meetings later, I found myself in an office full of broadcasting executives discussing how they wanted to make me the millennial and very Cajun version of Oprah. I flew home laughing that it was even a possibility seeing as though I have no broadcasting or journalism experience, but here we are nine months later in full production.

How exciting is this opportunity for you and your family? What's their take on this?

I didn’t tell my husband about it until I knew that it was real and I had a contract in hand. I was just sure it was a scam until I looked everyone that I’d met up on LinkedIn. He is pretty used to my insane antics, so he gave me the “whatever makes you happy and are you asking or telling me?” blessing. As for my kids, they have been a part of this production from beginning to where we are now. They have seen my failures during the early stages (teleprompter practice, guest invitation rejections, etc.) to the triumphs of seeing the set complete and signing dream guests. It’s been an amazing ride thus far and I’m so happy that they have been able to be along for the ride.

Could you give us a brief overview of your new show? What themes and topics can viewers expect?

It’s a feel-good show, plain and simple. Our mission is for you “to leave feeling like all humans should.” We want you to be inspired, laugh, cry, feel every emotion possible in two hours. Wholesome stories, amazing human beings, hot topics and advice, talented artists and musicians, and most of all, a genuine atmosphere. I want everyone in the audience, both in studio and at home, to feel like they have been refreshed and given purpose after every show. I want them to feel inspired to spread joy and kindness even in times when it’s not the easiest. I believe some foundation has to be set to model how we should treat each other for the next generation and I would love to be a part of that, even if small.

What does it mean to you to be able to do something like this in your own community?

The best part about this entire process is that I’m home. This was the only thing that I wouldn’t budge on when negotiating this contract. I am a full-time wife, mom, nurse and Louisianian. I would never move my family from what we know as home for an off-the-wall dream so when asked, that was my one requirement. Seeing people support me on random Tuesdays during their work week, shutting down their business for a few hours with a sign to come to the show (McClain’s Pizzeria), and offering audience giveaways makes me feel so loved and supported and is one of the many reasons why I love Mandeville so much.

What challenges have you faced while launching Eaux Kev, and how did you overcome them while managing all your other responsibilities?

Probably the biggest challenge has been imposter syndrome. Why would anyone want to watch this girl from New Iberia, Louisiana? Even more, why would anyone be willing to invest money to produce it? Also, meeting some people in real life that you admire and them not turning out to be what you expected. My greatest lesson has been that not everyone in the world has the same mission to change it. All that you can do is your best to leave them better people having met you. The show talent manager, Michelle, reminds me daily how awesome of an opportunity this is and that I was chosen for a reason.

What's it take to get you to sit still?

Ha! When you find out, please let me know. I haven’t had a solid night of sleep in about six years. Although, a Pat Gallagher’s 527 filet and an ooey gooey can keep me occupied for a few minutes.

What's been your favorite moment of the show so far?

Honestly, walking out during my first episode to my mom, dad, husband, son and twin girls sitting in the front row, beaming with pride. That memory is locked in for the rest of my life whether this show goes anywhere or not.

What's next for you?

We are piloting for a major network so if signed, many things would change from time commitment to the production process. We would go to live production which is so very scary for me because I’m so chaotic. I’ve also got some awesome partnerships on the stove heating up, both local and national like finalizing a line of glassware that I’m super proud of.

Where can we find more info about the show and get tickets?

Our website, www.Eauxkev.com. Tickets are up for the entire season including some fun holiday bonus episodes. Lots of fun guests, giveaways and experiences ahead of us this season. The fun is just beginning.

What advice do you have for other impossibly busy moms who have big dreams?

Say yes. Prioritize your mental and physical health, but say yes to things that you’d never dream of. The type of busy that I am these days still allows for soccer games and back-to-school nights. Your kids are taking notes each and every moment and you don’t want to teach them regret. I never realized how it would make me feel to make them proud. It’s indescribable. There is no recipe for life. Just be the best person that you can be.