Caroline Manzo knows how to have it all: family, friends, a successful career — and now she can add a hit TV show to her list. The spirited Italian mama quickly became a fan favorite on Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” for her spunky attitude and dedication to her family. Currently in the middle of filming for Season 2, Manzo took the time to speak to Release exclusively about the show.

Release: Were you born and raised in New Jersey?

Caroline Manzo: No, I was actually born in Brooklyn and then I lived in Wantagh, Long Island until I was five. Then I moved to Maspeth, Queens after which I moved to Middle Village, Queens when I was 12. Finally when I was 16, I moved to Kinnelon, N.J.

Release: How did you find out about the show and how did it all begin?

CM: The “Real Housewives” production company went to my hair salon one day, Chateau, asking if there were any interesting ladies in town!

Release: How many days a week do you tape and how many hours a day?

CM: There is really no rhyme or reason to taping. It could be six days or one day, you never know.

Release: Does the show truly depict your life or is any of it scripted in some way?

CM: The show is not scripted at all.

Release: Did you know Danielle previous to the show?

CM: Danielle went to our salon too.

Release: What was it about her that caused such turmoil between you two?

CM: I just had this gut feeling about her.

Release: Why do you think she and Jacqueline were able to become such good friends on the show? Are they still friends now?

CM: I can’t answer that, watch and see!

Release: How is your relationship with Jacqueline now?

CM: My relationship with Jacqueline has always been a good one.

Release: Have you and Dina always had a close relationship and do you think the show has made you closer?

CM: Dina and I have always been very close, the show hasn’t changed things.

Release: How has your life and your family’s life changed since the show?

CM: It’s crazy, people recognize you and want your autograph. I have gone to some movie premieres, guests on multiple TV shows, who knew!

Release: Are you recognized a lot by fans? Are people nice or rude?

CM: I’m recognized all the time, people have been very kind and gracious. I’ve had no bad experiences.

Release: Has it been an intrusion on your life and your family?

CM: It was no intrusion at all, we are flattered.

Release: How has it been for your kids and the younger kids on the show? How have they been affected?

CM: I can only speak for my kids, but they are the same kids as they always were.

Release: Is your son still going forward with his strip club/car wash idea?

CM: I can’t say, you’ll have to watch and see!

Release: Has the show helped with The Brownstone? Are people fighting even more to have their weddings/events there now?

CM: Thank God The Brownstone has always been very busy. Now we get a lot of people coming by just to take pics, though.

Release: What is the best and worst thing that has happened since the show?

CM: It’s been a very positive experience, we are just enjoying the ride as a family.

Release: Would you say this has been a positive or negative experience overall?

CM: It’s been very positive!

Release: Did you watch the show when it aired? Did you have any problems with how it was edited or how you were portrayed? Did you regret anything?

CM: Yes, I watch every show and have had no issues with editing. What you see is what you get and I think they were very fair.

Release: How are things looking for Season 2? Are you all thinking about doing it again?

CM: You’ll have to watch and see!