Barely Famous Podcast Episode Summary: "Hell In Boots With Saraya-Jade Bevis"

Release Date: August 8, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of the Barely Famous podcast, host Kail Lowry welcomes Saraya-Jade Bevis, a renowned professional wrestler known for her tenure in WWE and her subsequent ventures. The conversation delves deep into Saraya's personal and professional journey, offering listeners an unfiltered look into the challenges and triumphs she has faced both inside and outside the ring.

Early Life and Wrestling Career

Saraya shares her upbringing in a wrestling family, highlighting the influence of her parents who were also wrestlers. She recounts signing with WWE at the age of 18 and navigating her early career amidst industry pressures.

“I grew up in a wrestling family, and then you signed to WWE when you were 19? They signed me because I was different. They signed me because I was different than everybody else.” ([06:20])

Saraya discusses her initial tryouts with WWE in England in 2011, emphasizing the struggle to fit the traditional diva mold. Her unique appearance and alternative style set her apart, leading to her eventual signing.

Navigating the WWE Landscape

Saraya reflects on the camaraderie and friendships formed within WWE, mentioning close relationships with fellow wrestlers like Becky Lynch and Renee Young. She also touches upon the challenges of sustaining genuine connections in an industry often characterized by fleeting relationships.

“You were telling me, are you really a wrestler? Yeah, I'm right here.” ([14:17])

Saraya highlights the supportive environment provided by WWE during her struggles, particularly during her battles with addiction and mental health issues. She credits the organization for helping her regain confidence and stability.

Personal Struggles and Mental Health Advocacy

A significant portion of the discussion centers around Saraya's personal battles with addiction, PTSD, and the impact of unwanted sex tapes released when she was 19. She openly shares the emotional toll these events took on her mental health and the support systems that aided her recovery.

“I had been struggling publicly with addiction, and it was the worst. It felt like everybody saw it, and that was the worst.” ([33:46])

Saraya emphasizes the importance of therapy and community support in overcoming personal demons. She advocates for changing the narrative from victimhood to survivorship, encouraging others to seek help and resilience.

“You're not a victim, you're a survivor.” ([30:40])

Book Release: "Helen Boots"

Saraya discusses her book, Helen Boots, detailing the arduous process of writing and rewriting to accurately portray her life experiences. She describes the emotional labor involved in sharing her traumatic past and aims to provide a voice to those who have been unheard.

“I wanted people, if I was going to tell my story, I wanted it to be like, everything. Like, the very intense parts.” ([25:01])

The book serves as a cathartic outlet for Saraya, allowing her to address childhood abuse and other personal traumas, while also offering hope and strength to her readers.

Transition to AEW and Future Endeavors

After retiring from WWE due to a severe neck injury, Saraya briefly joined All Elite Wrestling (AEW). However, the partnership was short-lived, leading her to focus on other passions such as acting and podcasting.

“I did, yeah. I did the Rule Breakers podcast because I wanted to try and stand out as much as I can.” ([19:17])

Saraya also touches upon the challenges of balancing her career with her personal life, especially with her brother Zach, who faced his own hurdles in pursuing wrestling.

Support Systems and Community

Throughout the episode, Saraya emphasizes the crucial role of friends, family, and supportive communities in her journey. She highlights the unwavering support from WWE and her close-knit group of friends who have stood by her through thick and thin.

“They saved my life ultimately, you know, because they were like, okay, you have two strikes on you. If you stay sober for a year, we'll take that strike off.” ([35:25])

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Saraya reflecting on her growth and the lessons learned from her tumultuous journey. She underscores the importance of self-acceptance, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of personal well-being.

“I’m very intense, all the intense parts. So, the only exhausting part of talking about the book is every media outlet wants to talk about my childhood abuse.” ([26:14])

Saraya's candid discussion provides a profound insight into the complexities of life as a professional wrestler, the struggles behind the spotlight, and the power of overcoming adversity.

Notable Quotes

• Kail Lowry ([01:55]): “I was crying because the last time I saw you was marching.”

• Saraya-Jade Bevis ([03:00]): “You and Kail, it's a lonely place. It can be a lonely place.”

• Saraya-Jade Bevis ([25:16]): “I wanted people, if I was going to tell my story, I wanted it to be like, everything.”

• Kail Lowry ([43:04]): “I think that speaks to the mental place that you were.”

• Saraya-Jade Bevis ([54:27]): “I'm just not one of those people. So when I see people like that, like, I had a friend recently, like, she so sold me out for like an accent.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of Barely Famous offers an intimate portrayal of Saraya-Jade Bevis, blending her professional wrestling career with her personal battles and triumphs. Kail Lowry adeptly navigates sensitive topics, providing a platform for Saraya to share her story of resilience and empowerment. Listeners are left inspired by Saraya's unwavering strength and commitment to self-improvement.