Kim Zolciak on Falling Back in Love With Herself Through Divorce and Life After Split (Exclusive) 

Kim Zolciak and Kroy Biermann, who tied the knot in 2011, are in the midst of a split as they deal with financial problems. 

Kim Zolciak is rediscovering self-love.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta alum recently shared insights into her personal journey of self-discovery during her divorce from Kroy Biermann

Speaking with ET's Brice Sander about her upcoming show, Surreal Life: Villa of Secrets, the 46-year-old opened up about finding new love for herself and gaining clarity from the experience.

Zolciak reflected on the significant friendships she formed during the show, highlighting how they supported her through her difficult times. "I made some really great friendships, and through these friendships, including Josie [Canseco], I learned so much from her and Macy [Gray]," shared Zolciak.

Kroy Biermann and Kim Zolciak-Biermann - Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images

"Having O.T. [Genasis] there made me feel safe and reassured. Initially, I was very nervous, but having him there helped me realize it was going to be okay. This experience gave me the time to think about what I truly want and the changes I need to make," said Zolciak.

She candidly discussed a moment of vulnerability on the show, revealing her struggles with feeling safe and supported in her personal life. "I haven’t felt emotionally safe or able to express myself without it being twisted for a long time," Zolciak admitted.

"My own parents did things that caused a rift, and I haven’t spoken to them for years. It’s one thing to mess with me, but don’t mess with my kids. Going through this experience, I questioned who I could trust. But to breathe and get that release was one of the most incredible days of my life. I needed the clarity that release gave me."

When addressing misconceptions about her situation, Zolciak stated, "People have no idea what’s really going on. I will remain as quiet as I can throughout this process for my children’s sake. I don’t know what the future holds."

Kim Zolciak Kroy Biermann - Getty

Despite the challenges, Zolciak expressed optimism about her future. "I don't know what the future holds for me in that regard. I am happier now than I've been in a long time. You know, I have stepped out of my comfort zone in so many situations that have been life-changing, just like the Surreal Life. The whole experience as you watch, you'll see, and I just feel like I love Kim. You know, I've had, I had to like get to know Kim again throughout this process and really fall in love with Kim and choose Kim. Choosing Kim is not an easy thing for me."

Zolciak still believes in love, reflecting on her marriage to Biermann. "I mean Kroy and I had an incredible marriage for many, many, many, many years. And yeah, I absolutely believe in love."

Zolciak and Biermann, who tied the knot in 2011, are in the midst of a contentious split as they deal with financial problems

Addressing a teaser from the show featuring a steamy moment with Chet Hanks, Zolciak teased, "You’ll have to stay tuned. He’s handsome and funny. He’s a great guy."

In a trailer for MTV's upcoming season of Surreal Life: Villa of Secrets, Zolciak and Hanks appear to get close.

"Kim is a MILF," Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson's 33-year-old son tells the cameras, as footage plays of a shirtless Hanks climbing into bed with the reality star.

Surreal Life: Villa of Secrets will premiere July 23 on MTV.

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