Hawk Tuah girl speaks about the question that gave her fame and also forced her into hiding

Haliey Welch, the 21-year-old known as the "Hawk Tuah Girl," has spoken out about the viral moment that changed her life in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.

Welch became an internet sensation in June after a cheeky response to a provocative question during a man-on-the-street interview in Nashville.

When asked, "What's one move in bed that makes a man go crazy every time?" her unfiltered reply, "You gotta give 'em that 'hawk tuah' and spit on that thang!" took social media by storm, instantly making her a viral sensation.

Welch's rise to fame was swift and unexpected. She hails from Belfast, Tennessee, a small town of just 844 people with "cow fields everywhere."

Welch was working in a spring factory when the video, uploaded by Tim & Dee TV, garnered 18 million views.

Overnight, her life was turned upside down, and her small-town anonymity was replaced by internet fame.

Reflecting on her viral success, Welch describes the experience as "hella hectic" and notes that her group chats were "blowing up" just days after the video went live.

Initially, Welch struggled to adjust to the newfound attention and even hid for two weeks, too embarrassed to face the public.

Welch's hometown influence

Raised by her grandmother, whom she still lives with, Welch eventually embraced her new reality.

Her grandmother, with a shared sense of humor, found the viral moment amusing after Welch explained it to her.

"That's where I get my mouth from," Welch joked, crediting her grandmother for her bold personality.

Despite the fame, Welch has stayed grounded. She recently left her factory job to focus on new opportunities, including her rapidly growing social media presence.

With 2.5 million Instagram followers, she's using her platform for positive causes. Welch has launched Paws Across America, a foundation aimed at supporting animal charities.

"I didn't ask for this, but I'm grateful. I want to help others too," she said, highlighting her desire to give back.

Welch's viral fame has also brought her into the world of celebrities. She's shared the stage with country singer Zach Bryan and joined Shaquille O'Neal in the DJ booth.

Additionally, Welch has launched her own podcast, Talk Tuah, which is already making waves, ranking No. 3 on Spotify's Top Comedy Podcast chart. The podcast features celebrity guests and covers topics like dating advice and life experiences.

Despite her rapid rise, Welch has no plans to leave her small-town roots. While Hollywood may come calling, she enjoys the quiet life in Belfast, saying, "That's my peace of mind."

For now, Welch is focused on her podcast and continuing to use her platform for good while staying connected to her Tennessee hometown.