Motherhood is tough enough without unnecessary drama, and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (RHOBH) star Crystal Kung Minkoff is shedding light on a topic all too familiar for many moms—tricky dynamics in mom groups. Joining the conversation sparked by actress Ashley Tisdale’s candid essay about her decision to leave a 'toxic' mom group, Crystal took the opportunity to share her own thoughts on the matter.

Recently, Ashley opened up in a heartfelt letter detailing her uncomfortable experience within a community of fellow mothers that left her feeling judged and excluded. Her story resonated deeply with moms everywhere struggling to find their village without the added challenges of cliques, competition, and criticism. In response, Crystal has stepped up to show her support, validating the all-too-common experiences of moms in these groups.

As a mother of two and a relatable voice on the hit Bravo series, Crystal didn’t shy away from discussing her perspective. 'I think a lot of us moms just want support, not judgment. It’s unfortunate that something meant to bring community can sometimes make us feel so isolated,' she shared in a recent interview. Crystal applauded Ashley’s bravery for addressing a subject many avoid, as it’s often perceived as taboo to admit you’ve struggled to fit into these curated social circles.

These 'mom groups,' often portrayed as uplifting communities where women come together to bond over shared experiences, don’t always live up to their supportive reputation. For some, they can unintentionally (or deliberately) become breeding grounds for gossip, exclusivity, and unnecessary judgment. 'At the end of the day, we’re all just trying to do our best for our families. None of us need the added pressure of feeling inadequate compared to others,' Crystal added.

The discussion isn’t about tearing apart these groups altogether, but rather about acknowledging their pitfalls and encouraging conversations about how they can do better. Crystal believes that when moms support each other without judgment or comparison, these communities have the potential to truly be a safe haven. 'It’s okay to walk away from something that doesn’t serve you,' she reminded other mothers.

Conversations like these matter because they bring attention to the unseen struggles of motherhood that many may feel too embarrassed to discuss. Being a mother involves immense emotional labor, and the reality is that perfection doesn’t exist—even though societal pressures often convince moms otherwise. By opening up about their experiences, high-profile women like Ashley Tisdale and Crystal Kung Minkoff are helping normalize these feelings, inspiring other moms to prioritize authentic connections over forced relationships.

Crystal’s words, coupled with Ashley’s essay, have sparked a wave of gratitude from moms on social media who no longer feel alone in their struggles to navigate the 'mom group' world. The takeaway? When it comes to motherhood, kindness and understanding should always win over competition and critique.