Barely Famous Podcast Episode Summary: "I was Honey Boo Boo with Alana Thompson"

Release Date: May 23, 2025
Host: Kail Lowry
Guest: Alana Thompson (formerly known as Honey Boo Boo)
Podcast: Barely Famous

Introduction and Background

In this compelling episode of Barely Famous, host Kail Lowry interviews Alana Thompson, widely recognized as Honey Boo Boo from the reality TV show Here Comes Honey Boo Boo. Alana discusses her journey from childhood fame to her current endeavors, including her new biopic, I Was Honey Boo Boo, which premiered on Lifetime.

Early Fame and Public Life

Alana gained national attention at the age of six through TLC's Toddlers & Tiaras, where her vibrant personality and memorable catchphrases, such as "Everybody's a little gay" [15:35], endeared her to audiences. This led to the spin-off series Here Comes Honey Boo Boo in 2012, which showcased her family's life in rural Georgia until its cancellation in 2014 amid controversies surrounding her mother, Mama June.

Relationship with Mother and Financial Struggles

A significant portion of the conversation delves into Alana's strained relationship with her mother. Alana addresses a TikTok video where she accused Mama June of stealing her money [03:05]. Trey Farrow, CEO of Spot Pet Insurance and Alana's boyfriend, clarifies that while Mama June did take Alana's earnings—20% was legally required to be placed in a kid's account per California law—the remaining 80% was used to support the family [07:05]. Alana elaborates on the impact of their mother's actions, stating, "Mama June... is my past" [16:42], emphasizing her efforts to move beyond her childhood persona.

Personal Growth and Education

Now 19 years old and a college junior, Alana discusses her pursuit of a nursing degree [13:12]. She reflects on how her early fame has shaped her life's trajectory, expressing gratitude for the opportunities it provided, such as attending college in Colorado [05:37], while also acknowledging the challenges of growing up in the public eye. Alana shares, "I just knew I wanted to make something more of myself than just being on TV my whole life" [40:10], highlighting her determination to establish her identity beyond reality TV.

Family Dynamics and Loss

The conversation touches upon the tragic passing of a family member, Anna, which brought Alana and her family closer together [04:03]. Alana explains how Anna's illness and subsequent death affected their relationships, particularly in the context of custody battles over her sibling, Caitlyn, while Kylie, another sibling, was taken to live with her biological father in Alabama [21:20].

Biopic and Public Perception

Alana expresses mixed feelings about public perception, noting that many still associate her with her childhood show despite her efforts to mature and redefine herself [06:10]. She hopes her biopic, I Was Honey Boo Boo, will aid in reshaping this narrative by allowing her to tell her story authentically [25:10]. She states, "I feel a little bit of closure because I finally got to say my whole story out loud" [25:15], indicating a sense of empowerment through the project.

Navigating Social Media and Public Scrutiny

Alana and Trey discuss the relentless nature of social media and public scrutiny. Alana acknowledges the balance between benefiting from social media's reach and managing its negative aspects, especially concerning personal relationships [27:30]. Alana advises, "If you have the time to sit here and make a post or a comment on anything that I do, there's something in your life that's not going right" [27:48], underscoring her resilience against online negativity.

Future Aspirations and Personal Life

Looking ahead, Alana reveals her aspiration to become a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) nurse [23:38]. She shares insights into her rigorous study habits and clinical rotations, emphasizing her commitment to her chosen profession despite public perceptions [26:35]. Additionally, Alana touches on her personal life, including her relationship with Trey, who supports her public endeavors while preferring to stay out of the spotlight [34:25].

Conclusion and Reflections

As the episode concludes, Alana reflects on how fame has positively influenced her by teaching her to stay grounded and appreciate her fans [32:09]. She remains optimistic about her future, balancing her educational pursuits with managing her public image. Alana's candid discussion offers listeners an intimate look into the complexities of transitioning from child star to young adult seeking personal and professional fulfillment.

Notable Quotes:

• "Everybody's a little gay." – Alana Thompson [15:35]
• "I feel a little bit of closure because I finally got to say my whole story out loud." – Alana Thompson [25:15]
• "I want to be that nurse one day." – Alana Thompson [19:52]
• "If you have the time to sit here and make a post or a comment on anything that I do, there's something in your life that's not going right." – Alana Thompson [27:48]

Follow Alana Thompson:

• Instagram: @AlanaThompson
• TikTok: @AlanaThompson

Watch the Biopic:
I Was Honey Boo Boo is available exclusively on Lifetime starting May 17th at 8 PM Central Time.

This episode provides a deep and nuanced exploration of Alana Thompson's life, offering listeners valuable insights into her personal growth, challenges, and aspirations beyond her early fame as Honey Boo Boo.