Let’s be real; home renovation shows don’t usually lean into feelings. You get the demo, the design, maybe a little stress… and then boom, reveal. But the HGTV show “Renovation Aloha” is doing things a little differently this season. And we can’t see where it takes them.
In a recent Instagram post, stars Kamohai Kalama and Tristyn Kalama got candid about Season 3, admitting that they’re stepping outside their comfort zone in a big way. And yep, that includes letting viewers see the tougher, more personal side of the process.
It seems like this season isn’t just about flipping houses… it’s about pulling back the curtain.
Opening Up Hits Different This Season
Following Episode 2, “Squatter Shutdown,” of the hit HGTV series, which aired on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the couple addressed viewers directly on Instagram (seen above) with a refreshingly honest message:
“Sooo… who watched episode 2? Season 3—we’re opening up more than ever. Vulnerable, but honored to be here 🫶🏽🤙🏽“
Short, simple, and straight to the point. But it says a lot.
Filming a show like this already comes with pressure. Add in real-life challenges, emotional stakes, and the unpredictability of renovation projects on Oahu, and yeah… vulnerability is kind of inevitable. Instead of glossing over it, Kamohai and Tristyn are leaning in; and fans are noticing.
And if Episode 2 proved anything, it’s that things don’t always go according to plan. Between unexpected hurdles (including that now-infamous squatter situation), the stakes feel higher, and more personal, than ever.
HGTVFans Are Fully Invested (and Not Holding Back)
If you were wondering whether viewers are connecting with this more open, emotional season… yep, they absolutely are. Fans aren’t just watching: they’re feeling it. And it seems like a lot of them are intentionally pacing themselves because they don’t want the season to fly by too fast.
“I want to watch these very slowly because I don’t want them to end. 😂 Only saw the 1st episode so far and it was incredible. Thanks for opening up and allowing fans a little BTS 👏🏻👏🏻”
That kind of comment hits on exactly what Kamohai and Tristyn were going for this season; letting viewers in, not just showing them the finished product.
At the same time, Episode 2 brought some intense moments, and fans were quick to point out how the couple handled it all. The pressure? The conflict? The emotional weight? None of it went unnoticed.
“You handled that volatility like a true professional 👏👏👏I could totally relate to Tristyn’s concerns ( as a wife) The home was lovely and well designed 😍”
And then… there’s that situation. You know the one. Let’s just say viewers were just as shocked as the hosts when things took a turn, and they didn’t hold back in the comments.
“I can’t believe you gave the squatter 10 grand but he took off w options … wow crazy. Good on you ! and I love your choice of Emsier Tile.”
It’s kind of wild how this show manages to balance high-stakes chaos with design appreciation in the same breath; but somehow, it works.
Beyond the drama, though, a lot of fans are connecting with the deeper layers of the show..the cultural respect, the intentional design choices, and those quieter, meaningful moments that stick with you.
“Your hard work is seen. Love all the design choices you both make. All so beautiful. But my favorite part is listening to your father’s blessings at the end. 🙏🏼”
And that’s the sweet spot. The mix of heart, heritage, and home design is what’s making this season feel a little more personal; and a lot more memorable.
What’s Next for Season 3?
Good news: the season is far from over. “Renovation Aloha” continues Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 8:00pm ET with a new episode, “Bones on the Big Island.” This time, the couple heads off Oahu to take on a high-risk project near an active lava zone… because of course they do.
According to HGTV’s schedule, the build pushes them into dangerous territory, where affordable island living comes with some very real risks. So if you thought things were intense before… it seems like we’re just getting started.
As for a Season 4? Nothing’s been confirmed yet. But based on fan reactions, the demand is definitely there.
“Hope the next season is renewed! Love this show,” said one person in those comments. Honestly, same.
Between the stunning transformations, the real-life challenges, and the emotional transparency, Season 3 feels like a turning point for the series. It’s not just about the homes anymore; it’s about the people behind them.
And if this is what “vulnerable” looks like? We’re absolutely sticking around for more.
HGTV
I do love this show and episode 2 of season 3 showed the realities of their business. Yeah, 10 grand seemed like a lot to get the squatter out of the house and they made the extra effort to give him some options. I did feel Trystins fear when Kamohai approached the squatter. On pins and needles for the next episode