HGTV stars Tristyn and Kamohai Kalama, known for their O'ahu, Hawai'i-based show "Renovation Aloha," have revealed that they were deeply in debt before achieving success in real estate and television. The couple disclosed in an Instagram video that they were approximately $80,000 in debt at one point, a situation they described as "dire."

Kamohai Kalama explained that the financial difficulties were common in Hawaii due to the high cost of living. He noted that at times, they had to ask for help with rent. He emphasized that neither he nor his wife came from wealth or received financial assistance from his successful banking executive father to start their business ventures.

"I've never taken a penny from my dad to start a real estate company, nor has he invested in it at all," Kamohai stated, addressing misconceptions about their background. Tristyn Kalama added humorously, "I'll still take a trust fund if anyone wants to make me a beneficiary."

In the social media post, the couple elaborated on their journey, stating, "We didn’t come from money. We didn’t have trust funds. We didn’t have family writing checks to make our dreams happen." They detailed that their path involved significant debt, uncertainty about paying monthly bills, and taking risks that could have resulted in failure. They credited their success to "hard work, sacrifice, consistency, and relentless work."

The criticism and assumptions about their success have intensified as they have gained prominence. "People create stories to explain your success, because it’s easier than believing it came from years of sacrifice, consistency, and relentless work," they shared. They also noted the perception from different social circles, with some viewing them as being handed their success.

"The truth is far less glamorous," they added, "as we just kept showing up." They offered encouragement to those facing challenges, advising, "If you’re in a season where it feels impossible, keep going. Don’t let someone else’s assumptions make you question your own journey. Your story isn’t finished yet."

"Renovation Aloha" began airing on HGTV in 2024 and has aired 30 episodes across three seasons.