TW: Simulating Trauma. Out of 500,000 hopeful artists, only 205 will make it. Everyone else will face repeated rejection at auditions. So, what does a child really face when they pursue the industry? Brace yourself for the rollercoaster of learning how to play characters and bring scenes to life. Learn what happens when a child depicts explicit or traumatizing material. Dig into the impact of typecasting, hierarchies of cast members, and being sexualized during puberty. As an independent podcast, your support means a lot. Subscribe and follow @alysonstoner to join the conversation. New episodes every Friday. 50% off Movement Genius for 250+ classes and tools to care for your mind, body and emotions: https://bit.ly/DearHollywood50

If you’re struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/alysonstoner for a 10% discount on your first month of therapy with a licensed professional specific to your needs. TW: Child Abuse. Many child stars have come forward about having entire periods of their lives missing from memory due to dissociation and PTSD. So, let’s go all the way to the core. How does the industry affect a child’s nervous system? Alyson discusses common ruptures in secure attachment, the long-term effects of chronic stress on a developing body, and the harmful pattern of rapidly cycling between high highs and low lows. For child stars enduring particular abuse and trauma, Alyson provides a salient description of the consequences on their health, relationships and future. As an independent podcast, your support means a lot. Subscribe and follow @alysonstoner to join the conversation. New episodes every Friday.

TW: Eating Disorders. Alyson shares the audition process that landed them in rehab, along with the intense journey of recovery, therapy sessions, and what happened immediately after returning to Hollywood. They discuss undergoing plastic surgery and body modification while experiencing deep inner conflict, and the way it ultimately changed their career trajectory and relationships. As an independent podcast, your support means a lot. Subscribe and follow @alysonstoner to join the conversation. New episodes every Friday. 50% off Movement Genius for 250+ classes and tools to care for your mind, body and emotions: https://bit.ly/DearHollywood50

TW: Eating Disorders and Abuse. What is the impact of commercializing a child’s body as a product? What are the effects of Hollywood on a child’s body image? Alyson shares raw and intimate details of developing a severe eating disorder driven by industry pressures and protocols, intense perfectionism, fear of losing career momentum, and daily abuse happening at home. They share how a fast-paced and chaotic schedule leaves no room for pause or processing, resulting in many young stars choosing to cope with substances, partying or self-harm. As an independent podcast, your support means a lot. Subscribe and follow @alysonstoner to join the conversation. New episodes every Friday. 50% off Movement Genius for 250+ classes and tools to care for your mind, body and emotions: https://bit.ly/DearHollywood50

What happens when child performers - due to fame and the industry - accrue copious access to wealth, material luxuries, status, and power? What traits and behaviors show up? Alyson confesses to early moments that led to an inflated self-esteem, selfish behavior, and getting kicked out of a rehearsal for disrespecting the crew. They explore the paradox of extremes where child stars gain unusual power and influence over others, yet remain voiceless and vulnerable in the workplace. As an independent podcast, your support means a lot. Subscribe and follow @alysonstoner to join the conversation. New episodes every Friday. 50% off Movement Genius for 250+ classes and tools to care for your mind, body and emotions: https://bit.ly/DearHollywood50