Reality TV started back in 1973 with An American Family, but really exploded with launch of MTV’s The Real World in 1992. Since then, the game has been changed forever. Now, there are over 100 reality TV shows on the airways, chronicling everything from high-stakes competitions to extreme occupations to serious subject matters. And reality TV’s biggest impact? Launching every day people into the spotlight. One of the first was the star of Jon & Kate Plus 8, Kate Gosselin. We checked in with the first mother of reality TV.

“I try to do everything by myself.” –Kate Gosselin

After viewers watched her marriage of 10 years to Jon Gosselin end, Kate became the target of tabloid gossip and criticism. Katie talks to Kate about how she’s coping with the split and whether she thinks the TV show is to blame.

“I’ve learned what’s important… I’ve been through a lot.” –Kate Gosselin

Kate Gosselin has dealt with her fair share of hurtful rumors. She opened up about the decision to raise eight kids in the spotlight and about the allegations made in a new “tell-all” book.

“We were as real as you’re ever going to get.” –Kate Gosselin

Next, the reality show that really keeps us on our toes! The very sassy Abby Lee Miller and the rest of the stars of Dance Moms joined Katie to talk more about the good, bad and ugly of reality TV.

“They have a right to go to any other studio and pay somebody else.” –Abby Lee Miller

Last up, with 5.5 million viewers each week, Gold Rush is Discovery Channel’s biggest show. Katie welcomed the strike-it-rich men of Gold Rush and learned how to pan for gold.

“I got me some gold!” –Katie