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

TW: sexual violence/abuse. Hollywood was not built with children in mind, nor is it prepared to protect children on set. Alyson explores the risks and unsuitable conditions of adult workplaces and responsibilities, including a personal account of being given a cigarette as an 11-year-old on an ABC series. They outline facets of Hollywood culture such as having a posse of “yes people”, never turning “off” the Performer identity, and power dynamics that enable abuse behind the scenes. 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