From the glamour of “The Real Housewives of Miami” to the peaceful rhythms of her family farm, Julia Lemigova is a woman in balance, gracefully weaving together art, love, and authenticity. Now, as she begins a new chapter studying classical voice and opera at Florida International University, Julia reflects on rediscovering passion, embracing purpose, and redefining what it truly means to begin again. After all, as she reminds us, “Your passion doesn’t have an expiration date.”
You recently enrolled in FIU’s five-year Bachelor’s/master’s program in voice, specializing in classical and opera. What was it like to step back into the classroom and focus on something so personal and artistic?
It felt incredibly empowering to go back to school at my age. Music has always been a huge passion of mine. Walking into a classroom again was emotional. It’s humbling because I’m starting from scratch, but also liberating. This time, I’m studying purely for the love of it.
When you’re on stage or practicing, what does singing opera give you that nothing else in life can?
Singing gives me freedom. It’s therapy for my soul. Some people go to the gym for stress relief, I sing opera! When I sing, I can release emotions I don’t always have words for. It’s powerful, vulnerable, and deeply healing all at once. In those moments, I’m completely present.
Was there a piece or aria that first made you fall in love with classical music and opera?
Yes, Puccini’s “O mio babbino caro.” My mother used to play it when I was young. Even though I didn’t understand Italian until I was 15, I felt the emotion. That’s when I realized music speaks a universal language, straight to the heart.
Do you ever feel a connection between singing opera and the peaceful rhythm of life on the farm?
Definitely. Both require patience and presence. When I’m singing, I’m listening to my body, my breath, my emotions. On the farm, I’m doing the same, but with nature and the animals. In both spaces, there’s a kind of harmony that brings me peace.
What would you say to women who might feel it’s too late to start over or chase a new dream?
Your passion doesn’t have an expiration date. I’m in my fifties, studying opera, running a farm, raising two boys with my wife Martina, filming “Housewives,” and I’ve never felt more alive. It’s never too late to begin again, to rediscover who you are.
On the farm, you live such a simple, hands-on life surrounded by more than 300 animals. Can you walk us through a typical day and what moments bring you the most joy?
My mornings usually start before the sun rises. I make coffee, then check on everyone—the goats, the pigs, the horses. I gather eggs from the chicken coop and grab fresh mangos for breakfast. There’s a beautiful rhythm to it. It’s not glamorous, but it’s real. The best moments are when we’re all together as a family, the animals are calm, and the world feels still for a moment.
With so many animals depending on you, what do you feel is the most rewarding part of having the farm?
Every day is rewarding, from counting eggs in the coop to witnessing a baby goat take its first breath. Some of our animals came to us scared or abandoned, and over time, they learn to trust again. When I see that transformation, when an animal finally relaxes in my arms, it reminds me why I do this.
How does the simplicity of farm life balance the intensity of being in the spotlight and the demands of school?
The farm keeps me grounded. When I’m there, I’m not “Julia from Housewives.” I’m just me in muddy boots, hair tied up, doing real work. It’s a reminder that true fulfillment doesn’t come from the spotlight; it comes from purpose and peace.
How has living in Miami shaped both your music studies at FIU and your life on the farm?
Miami gives me energy because it’s vibrant and full of life. It inspires my creativity and my studies. But, having the farm just outside the city gives me balance. I get to live between two worlds, the excitement of Miami and the serenity of nature.
As a mom of two young boys, what are the little everyday moments at home or on the farm that mean the most to you and your wife Martina?
The small moments are everything—breakfast together, the boys running barefoot through the grass, feeding the animals as a family. Those are the memories that stay with you. The laughter, the mess, the love … that’s my happiness.
What lessons about compassion and responsibility do you hope your sons take away from growing up in such a unique environment?
I hope they learn that compassion is strength. Caring for animals teaches empathy and responsibility. I want them to understand that every life, no matter how small, matters. That lesson will guide them far beyond the farm.
What do you hope your sons learn by watching you pursue your education and passions so wholeheartedly?
I want them to see that their mother never stopped growing. That it’s okay to dream at any age, and it’s okay to start again. I hope they understand that courage isn’t about being fearless; it’s about following your heart, even when it’s uncertain.
You’re juggling so much—school, family, the farm, and your public life. What keeps you motivated on the days when it feels like a lot?
My family, and my “why.” There are days I’m tired, but I look at my boys, my wife, the animals, and I remember how lucky I am. I’ve lived many lives, each one teaching me resilience. Now, I focus on gratitude more than anything.
Do you ever find yourself learning from the animals, the children, or even your studies about slowing down and finding peace?
Every day. The animals live in the moment; they don’t rush or hold grudges. My boys remind me to laugh and not take life too seriously. And singing teaches me to breathe. Between all three, I’m constantly reminded to be present.
When you think about the legacy you want to leave, what do you hope people remember most about your journey?
I want to be remembered as someone who led with love and authenticity. My journey hasn’t been perfect, but it’s been real. If my story inspires someone to heal, to start over, or to chase what lights them up, then I’ve done something meaningful.
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