Is it messed up to say I’ve been looking forward to this for days?

when you said that 4 letter word, I cried. not because it obviously is an atrocious act but because you had the strength and courage to call it what it is and out loud. many of those who have been victimized can even say the word.

"forever likable, never a burden" hit me right in the heart. I was abused for my entire life by a parent. Im also autistic and wasnt diagnosed till this year at 29, so the chameleon idea is a great description of my experience as well. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I would read any book you write.

Around minute 17 Alyson mentions she didn't feel motivated to take care of her hygiene and appearance when not on camera. I read that the husband and wife that took Marilyn Monroe in for a time during her career said she dressed really sloppily when not performing. She had a lot of depression and anxiety. She was abused since she was a child, and she didn't know how to have a healthy relationship. She still had the mindset of a helpless foster child, even as a wealthy, successful adult. She was still looking for a mother and father figure. But as adults we can learn and choose to parent ourselves and be for ourselves what our younger selves needed.

Alyson, I want to commend you not only for your vulnerability and bravery in speaking out about this, but also for your eloquence and ability to be so compelling. I am a high school English teacher, and the wheels in my head are already turning with plans to use this podcast in my AP English Language & Composition course. At just three episodes in, it has already been a masterclass in developing an argument, which is a central focus of our course, and the topic is highly relevant to teens who have grown up admiring child stars. You are doing excellent, important work here. Thank you.

This series is amazing. I refuse to participate in pedstal treatment when it comes to humans who just happen to be celebrities. The exploitation in the film and music industry makes me really hate participating in consumption of it.

We are having a case in Brazil from a known child actress from here, Larissa Manuela, who didn't know about her money and her company's contracts until her adult years. It's so sad that this keep happening, it's so important that entertainers like you and her speak up about this.

So this was an exceptionally heavy one. Thank you for sharing your experience Alyson as that must have been quite hard to discuss something that personal. It’s sad that the child star culture is so ingrained that some stories like these are almost common. This series is very eye opening. Again thank you for having the courage to share and try to break this cycle and provide awareness. PS you are undoubtedly worthy

I had a similar experience as a young child with a gentleman who I later found out was a serial groomer and abuser. Many of us came together in our late teens to get him convicted. We were lucky- we had a lawyer who advocated for us, his employer believed us- the only group against us was his church. Exactly like you said- I know it's not my fault that I got hurt, and it's not my fault he hurt other people. But I to this day still feel responsible for every girl that came after me. It's taken years of therapy to recognize that feeling as a cognitive distortion, and illusion of control. Thank you for sharing your experiences and lasting feelings around them.

19:06 this is EXACTLY how I describe growing up in a hyperreligious background. I don't feel like i started becoming a real authentic person until I was about 23. I don't have any friends from before that time because none of those people were really friends with me. They were friends with my disguises. When i committed to not wearing disguises, they all feel away

"I started to wonder if I was a safe and reliable keeper of my own mind and body"!!! My inner sense of panic has been revolving around this, the way you framed this really stood out to me.

This is so relatable to anyone playing sports and the parents trying to get you to go professional! A lot of the things mentioned in this series can easily coincide with kids getting thrown into the athletic fame pipeline.

The level-headed, analytical way that you approach these issues is so refreshing. It's such a hard topic to talk about without it slipping into the "trauma porn" category. This is the kind of deconstruction Hollywood has needed for far too long. It's not extreme, it's not "a headline," it's facts, it's science, and it's all presented in a way that's irrefutable.

I can’t believe I aspired to be a child star and thought you guys were living it up!! I was debating putting my child in acting and … ehhh that environment is just too toxic for my sweet precious angel. I couldn’t imagine it for them. This breaks my heart.

I can’t believe how much I relate to you. Like, I simultaneously know that violence is always the fault of the perpetrator - but I also know that there were warning signs that I was trained to be blind to, where other people are taught to recognize the danger and avoid it. Some danger is preventable, but it was never prevented for me, because I was always taught that I am only worth what I can give to others. I could have been taught to protect myself, to care about myself, but someone would have had to model that for me, and no one did. They were all just using me. TW for below I once had a man break into my house and come into my bedroom while I was sleeping because I canceled plans on him. I woke to him in my bed with me, and I’ll leave the description at that. When I wasn’t happy about what he did, he became enraged, because of all the effort he went through to see me, despite all of the rejection I put him through. After I kicked him out, everyone told me that I should be grateful to have someone who clearly cared about/wanted me so much, and that I really needed to calm down about what happened, because he was such a nice guy. He was friends with my friends/roommates and for them, that was enough reason to take his side, even though they saw him entering and leaving my bedroom and they knew exactly what happened. They didn’t want to have to break up their DnD group over my melodrama. People don’t understand how much it messes with your head when you realize that no one cares enough to protect you or even to support you emotionally through the aftermath, even when they know what’s going on. It’s all hugs and smiles and high fives, as Alyson said, and you realize too late that you’re surrounded by monsters. And suddenly everything feels fake and empty; it’s all empty eyes and fake smiles and perfect friendliness that doesn’t mean anything, and it’s terrifying how perfectly believable it is when they look at you and smile and ask you how you’re doing, everyone still seems like the same warm person you trusted yesterday, and you realize how alone you really are. It’s impossible for me to explain how it feels. I don’t have the same eloquence that Alyson does, who has managed to explain every complex topic perfectly so far. But thank you Alyson, for sharing your story. I know that our lives are completely different, but I can’t tell you how much I relate to literally everything you’ve said thus far, even as just an ordinary person. And it has helped me so much, to realize that I’m not alone; that someone else understands. And the fact that you care enough to make this podcast and put your most vulnerable stories under public scrutiny, to help others in this way, truly moves me. I hope you continue to find peace and healing and happiness; you deserve to live a good and prosperous life. I’m a huge fan of this podcast, in case you couldn’t tell. I think it’s really important. I hope that people care.

Thank you for speaking with both nuance and clarity. Also, thank you for giving some level of grace to the adults who were simply unaware of their impact--while not giving them excuses for clearly wrong behavior. I teach junior high and high school students, and watching how quickly they can change from one day to another, and some, literally from one hour to another, can be amazing sometimes. I remember the transition from being an adolescent to an adult very clearly. At work, whether retail or teaching, sometimes it's necessary to "act," to perform for the needs of the moment. While teaching I truly am "on" all the time. I need to do so for my job! I don't mind, because I know how my day works and the rhythms there. I can't imagine needing to be like that as a child, or even only being with adults when they are in that performative role.

I love that this can also apply to non-celebrities who were neglected, and abused either emotionally, psychologically, sexually, or physically as well, especially with the conditioned to always offer themselves up and think we cant say no. Thank you. Thank you for sharing. Bless your heart honestly. ♥ Edit: BTW this was very healing. My therapist has told me plenty of times to not blame myself because being a child abuse victim always leads to becoming a victim in the future over and over until we get therapy to reform. Still, even so, healing is not linear and not easy.

Thanks for being so vulnerable, thoughtful, and considerate. I experienced a lot of childhood trauma as well and just listening to your story has made me feel more human.

So sorry you were taken advantage of in this horrific way. It's disgusting that abusers can still be around kids is terrifying.

My jaw dropped for 2 minutes straight. I’m so so proud of you for getting through everything you have, it’s really truly incredible and I wish you constant healing always!

I relate to this so very much. I was born into The Mormon Church. So much of what you said can be transferred over to growing up in religious control and abuse. I was not allowed to be me and I certainly wasn't allowed to have control over my body, my choices, or my beliefs. I am just now connecting how much of a negative impact that has had on my romantic relationships and my friendships. I was groomed by older men. I've been in violent relationships. I struggle with saying no and not feeling guilty or "bad". I am damn near 33-years-old and this shit is hard. I believe you. 💜

Rapists are exceptionally skilled at giving off no warning of their intention, and giving no indication to other connections what they're capable of.

"...rebuilding trust with myself..." this hit home. Something I'm still working on after years of therapy. Thank you for sharing these messages with us. For you, for me, for loved ones, for strangers, for everyone. Thank you.

So excited for every single episode you release, Alyson. This is a fascinating and necessary look into the industry. Thank you for sharing not only your story and perspectives, but those of others who want to speak their truths. The poison is truly in the water we are all drinking, amazing statement. 👏

Truly breaks my heart knowing what you and other childhood stars I grew up with went through. I'm glad you've been able to get to a place where you are learning to stand up for yourself and take ownership of your body and life. I thank you for taking the time to share all of this so we the fans can understand. And I hope this podcast can help bring change for child actors. What you are doing is SO important. This cycle of abuse and children being unsafe needs to end. ❤

I remember being in middle school and feeling afraid to advocate for my basic needs. I felt afraid I would be punished or shamed for needing to go to the bathroom or possibly have an accident if I waited too long. As an autistic person, I wanted to please other people before I would please and care for myself. I didn't want to be seen as rude or problematic. But no matter how much I tried to blend in socially being shy and awkward but still being told I have potential as a singer, I couldn't grasp the "hint" that some people were not interested in me. It's not my "job" for everyone to like me, and it took me a long time to put my needs first. I still need to set reminders to brush my hair, drink water, and brush my teeth too! Self advocacy is important! Thanks for the great video and looking forward to the next episode!

The saddest thing about all of this, is that its common and no one is really doing anything to change it, at least the people in power. Its a great conversation you have started, and a fresh POV to the issue, I’m enjoying it a lot and learning new things.

I was raped as a child too. I only had courage to tell my mom a month ago. The most hearthbreaking thing is that the person who raped me was not an adult but another child. It hurts to much. Even though you know it's not your fault, you'll always find yourself thinking "what if i did things the other way, maybe if i didn't get there that day, nothing would happened to me. Maybe it was the wrong day. Maybe if i wasn't such a pleaser, maybe if i said no!!!" I will never know. Now, i have been followed by a psicologist who helps me with ansiety and panic attacks. I still struggle with suicidal thoughts. And i have two backplans how to kill myself if i want to. But i feel better with the help, and i'm starting to have less and less this thoughts. Eventually i will get better, if not... Well, you know that happens. 🤷‍♀️

The shapeshifting you mentioned is a hallmark of childhood abuse survivors, actors or not. It comes from the denial of autonomy and free self expression, no matter what is the source of this denial.

hearing what you've been through literally makes me sick to my stomach, they just abandonded you and left you with having to pick up after all these adults

I'm so sorry for what happened to you. Fellow former child actor here. I sent my TV dad to prison. (Turns out he molested a bunch of children.) This was before #MeToo and going through the accusations, investigations and eventual court cases, followed by two appeals was insanely hard. I'm so glad that others are now also speaking up about their experiences, as hard as they are. People need to know being a child actor isn't all fun and play.

You are so incredibly beautiful and graceful. Thank you for speaking on this. I was not a child star, but I was bought as a living doll for a very narcissistic woman. Trafficked and gaslit about it, up till going no contact 2 years ago. Still feels like one giant gaslight when I think about my old family. But that's ok. I am applauding you for eternity ❤

I would LOVE to hear a convo btw you and Keke Palmer on her podcast

This is the kind of series I want to share with my daughter as she grows older. Our contexts may not be the same, but the entitlement that some feel to children's autonomy remains the same. Thank you for your vulnerability and for the conversations you are facilitating. Thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I am fascinated by this contextualixation of Hollywood culture as a specifically American subculture. On paper it seems so obvious but your slingshot metaphor is so apt, it really does take pulling back to be able to dive in. I will be looking for a copy of that book the next time I have a chance to visit the library. I mostly think in terms of tropes and fiction (it's amazing how storytelling can reveal so much), and even though she's a fictional character deliberately written to exemplify the "toddler to trainwreck" pipeline, I can't help thinking about Sarah Lynn from Bojack Horseman while listening to this conversation. Especially because so many of these moments you're describing were deliberately written into her arc: you can see the exact moment Bojack imprints the idea of being a performer above all else onto her (which of course was first pushed onto him by his mother) and how that affected her for the rest of her life. Don't Stop Dancing, indeed. I'm still impressed with how the writing in that show tackled some of this stuff. It's sobering to hear it come directly from someone who lived it.

Rachel Hurd-Wood (Wendy in the 2003 Peter Pan) talked about the struggles with maintaining hygiene as a child actor. I would have never thought of that, but it's interesting to have now heard two different child actors talk about this. Thank you for being so open on these issues ❤️. Thank you for sharing your story.

I didn't grow up in the industry, but my entire childhood was "performative" if you have a family that witholds love or is toxic, you are constantly trying to "act" in a way that pleases the adults around you, or to avoid their wrath.

I'm proud of our generation and the generations that follow, who have been taking their autonomy and consent so seriously and raising more and more fists in the air and voices to the tumult. thank you, Alyson.

I really appreciate the nuanced way you frame the system child stars have to operate in. I resonated with what you said about self neglect, though I didn't have the experience of being a child star, I definitely neglected my hygiene, sleep and eating as a teenager and young adult as a result of abuse. For me, I think it was a way of trying to prove that what happened to me was significant, and wallowing in my suffering made that pain matter. It's still a journey to teach myself that I'm not negating my experience by trying to make myself feel better - it's a way of honouring my experience and what I need. It's an after effect of trauma I wish more people gave voice to, so thank you for that! I also think you tackle the complexity of why people who are traumatized are likely to be traumatized again with a lot of grace and insight. It takes time to learn that what's happening inside of you is important, and to develop intuition about what's safe and unsafe.

As a mother of a tween I hope you discuss how young consumers of these shows might consider what they are taking in. How they interact with a young actor as a possible role model. How they can actively break down those issues as simply exposing them. You use some pretty big words, review fantastic key points. And I am tempted to use it as a teaching point for my tween daughter. Keep them coming.

I've just always thought it was so strange that CHILDREN are allowed to have jobs that under any other circumstances would be considered child labor and illegal? I can't imagine how damaging it would be to essentially have no safe space(if things weren't okay at home). I would have to "perform" at home and could at least explore who I was at school to an extent. As adults, we're all aware of the toxic fake work culture, but as a child you wouldn't know whats real and whats not. Thank you for being so vulnerable.

Reminds me of that incident where John Landis killed two child actors on the set of Twilight Zone. There was zero consequence for his career. and John’s son Max is out of control to this day… Max grew up completely entitled and used that power to abuse everyone around him. It is a gross cycle.

I’ve never been an actor but I struggle with brushing my teeth in the morning, ESPECIALLY at night before bed, cause I eat so randomly and idk when I’m going to pass out; I have chronic stress, severe social anxiety, bad depression so often, etc. I can’t really take care of myself at all. I mean I try, but.. a lot of days I skip a lot of meals, don’t brush my teeth some mornings and lots of nights, don’t know how to force myself to be productive or get a job or do something. Barely know who I really am. Idk.

This podcast has shed so much light into humanity, hardship, resilience, and triumph. I graduated with my masters in social work back in May and the way you speak on these tough topics and can articulate each experience with such clarity is amazing. As a new grad in the social services, hearing peoples stories and experiences helps shed light into my own and it is a reminder that everyone has a story and we need to listen. I commend your bravery with sharing your experience in such a raw way. I come back every week because I love how mature topics are explored and tough conversations are opened because your delivery in how you share your experiences is so moving.

I appreciate this series so much. You are bringing light to such a toxic and misunderstood industry. It's very important that people are able to see and hear that fame isn't all about money and happiness. It's simply not and it's very easy for someone who's "less fortunate" (depends on perspective) to idealize and idolize these concepts. Thank you Alyson for putting yourself out there in such a raw and transparent capacity. I appreciate you and all that you do. I hope you are taking care of yourself. Take care♥️ continue spread the positivity and unconditional love that people so badly need, you are doing a great job and I am proud of you :)

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us

I can relate, I may nor be an actress but I know what it feels like to be taken advantage of, I was and still being taken advantage of emotionally, physically, and mentally. You came out of this strong and for that I am a fan

Alyson, thank you for being so vulnerable. That is no easy task. I really value and appreciate what you are doing in this series. And I hope we see some change in the industry in our lifetime.

Your honesty about subjects that must be absolutely emotionally devastating to recount publicly is absolutely incredible! I’d read any book you published in a heartbeat. I’m noticing a lot of similarities between childhood performers’ experiences and my own as a queer kid growing up in the 90s in the Midwest. The mindset of your actual feelings and desires don’t matter your persona and being likeable and palatable to the adults you meet is what matters, that’s so real and it absolutely affected the way I navigated adulthood as well.

i just finished the video and i'm grateful you're sharing your journey and insight with us, i hope you're doing well today genuinely. My heart aches for you especially having to heal on your own, your resilience and openess about weakness is inspiring to my healing journey as well, I look forward to your insightful videos and honestly thank you for everything you're doing

I’m sooo sorry this happened to you Alyson. You’re so brave to disclose and I’m with you! Stay strong sister!!

I have so much respect and admiration for you, and what you’re doing with this series. It’s truly incredible to see someone bringing attention to core issues, and not just pointing fingers. I am very interested to hear more and find out what ideas you have in mind to enact change. I greatly appreciate your willingness to share such personal and deeply traumatic experiences on a public platform. You’re an inspiration 💜

Thank you so much for being so open, vulnerable, and real with us. This series has been so impactful and you have been a wonder to listen to. I’ve never had any part in the entertainment industry but I really resonated with a lot of the issues you brought up that you believe stem from your childhood. I grew up with a narcissistic abusive father and I think I experienced a similar sense of always having to perform and never being able to be my real self. I have really struggled as an adult with learning to prioritize my self and my self care in even the most basic ways. I’ve struggled with extreme people pleasing that has wreaked havoc on my mental health. But thanks to an amazing partner I have been granted the space and time to really try to heal and piece myself together. It’s so hard to learn who you are as you’re approaching 30 and learn how to be in a healthy adult relationship when you’ve never seen one. You are doing a wonderful and powerful thing speaking out on this industry and the impact it has had and continues to have on children. I’m looking forward to new episodes.

Alyson, you being so much sincerely, intelligence, kindness while being somber about the weight of the issues. Bravo. This is so incredibly well done. Thank you for sharing this with us, I’m recommending this to absolutely everyone I know

Love this series and your storytelling. Thank you for shedding a light and educating us (the audience) on the reality of what goes on with young performers in the industry. It’s always been a fascinating idea (which honestly is probably part of the problem), but to see the direct line to childhood trauma, addiction, body dysmorphia, etc. for these performers is both eye opening and jarring.

Wow, your willingness to open up and share your profound experiences and journey is truly inspiring. It takes tremendous courage to delve into your own story, especially when it involves past struggles and challenges. Your genuine and thoughtful approach in sharing not only showcases your strength but also your incredible depth of understanding. The way you're presenting your insights reflects not only intelligence but also an open-mindedness that's truly refreshing. It's clear that you're not just recounting your experiences, but you're also offering valuable lessons and perspectives that resonate deeply. I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for your candidness and the unique way you're navigating this path of self-discovery, self-awareness and path to teach the world of socials about it all. Your authenticity shines brightly and undoubtedly has a positive impact on those fortunate enough to come across your content. Thank you sincerely for being so open-hearted and for the genuine connection you're fostering with your audience.

I am so sorry that happened to you, and even sorrier that you weren't believed. Predators are very, very good at manipulation, of their supporters as well as their victims. The more I listen to your story, the closer I come to thinking we should follow Mara Wilson's suggestion and just use VFX for all child roles.

So sorry that happened to you, Alyson ❤️ proud of the work you’re doing with this very thoughtful podcast

You mention the whole "have your kid do your job" as comical, but for myself and a lot of children whose parents run their own businesses that happened. I was eleven when I was put to work in the office doing data entry during summer vacations (and some weekends). I never remember actually agreeing to it. I was thirteen when I was verbally abused, loudly, by one of my parents in front of at least seven other adults for messing up a form that cost the company $1000. Thirteen. No one said anything. I've met countless others who went through the same thing and while some were children of immigrants (which seems to be acceptable to people for some reason) most weren't. There has always been a serious child labour problem in North America and I'd say that Hollywood is just the most visible. I'm really glad you're doing this series. I think the more we talk about this problem the sooner we can start making real systematic changes that actually protect kids. Thank you.

I immediately subscribed to your channel after hearing the first episode. Your voice is perfectly suited for podcasts and needs to be heard everywhere. Everything you've said is so important, eloquently and intelligently stated, and well-researched.

Thank you for sharing your story. Sending you a loving embrace. We’re the same age and I so many people admired your career journey and also relate to a lot of your experiences in the sports arena growing up. Now as adults, I thank you for your voice and creating a safe space to have this conversation in an industry that likes to turn a blind eye💙

Thank you for sharing your story. I’m so sorry that you had to endure this seemingly never ending onslaught of abuse and violence.

I grew up watching the entertainment that you were exploited by. Over the years I’ve had moments where I’ve thought to myself, “I wonder what she’s been doing these days”. I am so sorry to hear what you’ve had to go through in your life. I’m close in age to you, and I was exploited by religion throughout my childhood, so I relate to many of your experiences. Thank you for your courage in sharing your experiences and being willing to talk about these things. Thank you for giving a voice to the voiceless. I am here for the ride and I’m eager to continue learning. 💛 Stay well, you’re doing great work!

I love that you're making this series we all need to hear this

I stumbled across this series completely by accident and I’m so happy I did. You are incredible. Your bravery in making this series is commendable. I’m so happy that you’re talking about these experiences so that children and their caregivers and guardians can see the potential and avoidable damage. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

I just wanted to say that this has been inspirational to watch over the last couple weeks. First, it takes a special strength and healing to relay such vulnerable moments with poise and insight. And second, it’s clear that much compassion and methodical work went into scaling the audience’s knowledge and building their capacity to take on more serious anecdotes. Two years ago when you first posted this project, you could have given up there. But to see your work grow and that passion for children in the industry push forward to become the series that is today makes this project really special. Thank you for persevering to make it happen.

My eyes got teary eyed when you disclosed. My heart goes out to you and what you experienced and that the person responsible has done it to countless others. It’s most certainly the worst crime…. Truly I’m speechless. I hope one day there is some kind of justice for you and the others.

Algorithm do your thing and take this series to the fkin top

I've been thinking a lot about what you said earlier about not just listening but finding ways to act and dismantle this poisonous system. Like you said, it's wat too easy for us (on the other side of the screen) to be sad for a second for toddler-to-trainwrecks trajectories, blame singular individuals, insult obnoxious fans and toxic parents. We need to change the system together, but there are also actions that only us (the non celebrities) can do. First, why don't we change the way we phrase admiration or disdain ? Instead of thinking "omg I love her" "omg I hate him", why don't we phrase the distance between characters and individuals ? "I love the characters he portrays". "I loved your role in that movie". In the case of child actors, such phrasings would help with the constitution of bodily autonomy, and the realization that something separates the actor from their role.

That’s so messed up how they mishandled your money and took advantage of your innocence as a child.. even when it comes to your finances.. this really saddens my heart, there is so much wickedness going on in the industry .. so many changes need to be made. Thank you for your vulnerability

Thank you for sharing Alyson. I am so sorry you had to go through all of this. Just know that we as fans love you no matter what.

the fact you have the strength to talk about your experience is amazing and im so sorry you and others had to go through that. Justice will be served in this life or the next but thank you for speaking of these events and the reality so many kids and people are living every day

I'm very glad you're sharing this with with us. It is really important to take a critical look at the environment we are funneling children into and what ways we can protect them. It makes me sad that you and the other child stars still have to lay yourself so bare just for the hope of change in the industry. You're definitely shifting public perception

Alyson* thank you for sharing your deepest thoughts. You’re doing enlightening work. I’m 29 years old and watched you grow up with me and it’s so important that people see what’s going on behind the scenes. Strangers truly loved you but the only people who had any influence or access to you wanted to hurt you and that’s heartbreaking.

This has been such a good series. Thank you for sharing your story.

Growing up watching y’all on Disney, I’ve always thought y’all deserve the absolute best in life and now that we’re all older it’s crazy how much I can relate to y’all’s experiences. I may not have been a child actor but I’ve definitely been performing for the people around me my whole life. Like you guys, it’s taken me a long time to feel like my body is my own and I still struggle heavily. I’m so sorry you’ve had to go through the things you’ve had and I just know your story will help so many people 🫶🏼❤️

Thank you for continuing to put yourself out there so as to help give a voice to so many who have felt compelled to silence by those taking advantage of them in one way or another. As the spouse of a victim to childhood abuse-psychological and sexual-I have had to see so many facets of the pain and confusion you expressed on the face of the person I love most in the world, and felt so angrily helpless to do anything for them besides be there. Greatly appreciate how hard this all is, but you are not alone; you are seen, heard, believed, and loved. Thank you.

Thank you again for being so open and willing to share your story. Your observations and discussions of the industry and culture are so thoughtful and insightful. 💜

I hope other child stars and/or children who were pressured by adults to be unrealistically high achievers in their respective domains find so much healing with this series. You break it down so concisely, kindly, and analytically!🫶🏾 Also appreciate the intersectional considerations since I’m a Black queer woman.

I am so thankful for this series! Your raw and honest portrayal of what it’s like growing up in the industry will hopefully illuminate the path towards a brighter future for not just the children or actors in the industry; but society as a whole. Though we’ve lead two entirely different lives, I find your perspective and experiences so relatable which really highlights how over arching these issues truly are. Thank you!!! Can’t wait for more!

I'm not an actor nor was I a child actor, but the amount of habits that I relate to is insane. Learning so much about myself. This is just so well written and presented. Thank you so much for this.

Your episodes continue to be thoughtful, concise, and well executed. You are being so incredibly vulnerable with us your audience and fans which takes incredible strength. These experiences are real parts of your journey and you are choosing to use them to carve out a path for change. It is never easy to blaze a trail for others to follow. We are rooting for you Alyson.

It makes my heart so heavy to hear such horrific violence happened to you. And I know this kind of horror happens on a mass scale. I'm just glad you are on the road to healing. 💓

I'm so proud of you and everything that you do. Your dedication does not go unnoticed and I am HERE for it/you

Oh Alyson. I feel for you so deeply. Although I was never a child actor, I understand this pain too well. I am in awe of your courage and eloquence and wisdom. Keep talking. It's helping people. I could listen to you talk forever and a day. Sending you so much love and light.

Yay! I'm so invested in this podcast. You have my utmost support Alyson ❤! I know it must not be easy to share such vulnerable and intimate moments and experiences with the world but I thank you for speaking up. You are possibly showing other persons (both former child stars & non-former child stars) that they are NOT alone. Episode 4, here we come👏🏾❕

Alyson, thank u so much for all your time, all your words, and all your vulnerability. You are so loved beyond what u know. Thank you.

As a mom I really wish I could hug your younger self. Thank you for your courage and strength to share this. I’m sorry the adults who we’re supposed to protect you didn’t. I admire you being that adult you needed as a child in this industry. It just saddens me that this knowledge comes from you experiencing all of this. Sending you love ✨

Watching this series is so moving. Your insights are eye-opening. Thank you.

Thank you for being so incredibly vulnerable ❤️ Truly loving the podcast

Thank you for sharing your experience and education in this matter. I've lived just outside Los Angeles county for more than 40 years and have seen, second-hand, the expectations and maturity put upon industry kids. It's frightening. Your introspective and well researched approach is unique. I hope you're able to take this conversation to a point of real change in the industry.

thank you for this, thank you for being so open. Thank you for speaking on how hollywood actually really is. lastly i’m so sorry what you went through. I hope one day that person gets what they deserve and is exposed. never stop moving forward✨

I'm so sorry that you had to grow up with these things being your reality. I also would like to say you are truly a warrior and a survivor & by opening the door to these difficult discussions can open people's eyes to how this is still very much a reality for child stars. Sending lots of love, thoughts, prayers, & positive vibes your way- keep continuing to heal a day at a time🙏❤️

As a mental health researcher, I’d be so interested to see people research this topic using participatory arts-based methods (particularly through Photovoice or theatre-based methods). I think it would give rise to so much of child actors’ embodied experiences and the asymmetrical power relations associated with that in a visual and social action-oriented manner, especially things like body modification. Definitely something to watch for sure, thanks for raising awareness for these kinds of topics!!

I’m loving this podcast! Thank you for adding your personal experience to really expose this, and I’m sorry it has to be this open and raw for people to start seeing this industry for what it is and take real action. I really applaud the writing and narration here too, it’s so well versed and clear! If you do write a book, you have a reader here ❤️😊

You are such an inspiration and i truly hope so much CHANGE comes from this. I know as an audience member i didnt know the many things that got overlooked or okayed by adults and the ones who had a true voice.

You are so inspiring. Thank you for being so raw and vulnerable, and I hope this series encourages other survivors of this industry to keep coming forward (when they’re comfortable, of course)

I'm so sorry about what you've gone through in the industry. When you mentioned that someone took advantage of you in that way, my heart just broke. It's so brave and inspiring of you to share your experiences regarding the industry. I'm so glad that I found your podcast!! 😊❤

Sorry you had to go through all of that :( breaks my heart. My Daughter is 10 years old and wanting to be an actress. She’s currently in acting class which I attend with her. Glad you listed/exposed all the important facts to look out for. I will protect my daughter over anything. Thanks for being you and for being brave to speak out. Much Love and Aloha 🤙🏽🤙🏽

I am BUZZING for the next episode!