In this raw and unfiltered solo episode, Ash opens up about what really happened after returning from a powerful retreat in Bali. She shares the unexpected crash that followed, the darkness she found herself sitting in, and how she’s been navigating waves of depression with honesty and self-compassion.Ash talks about the messy reality of healing, the role of the nervous system in moments of struggle, and the surprising strength that comes from leaning on community. She doesn’t sugarcoat the hard parts, but instead shows how vulnerability, connection, and small acts of self-care can carry us through even the heaviest seasons.If you’ve ever felt like you “should” be further along or questioned why things feel so hard after big breakthroughs, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone, and that the path to healing is never a straight line.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to the Retreat and Podcast01:38 Vulnerability and Personal Reflection02:34 Post-Retreat Struggles and Burnout05:24 Navigating Depression and Emotional Awareness10:14 Finding Comfort in Nostalgia and Self-Care14:22 Understanding Nervous System Regulation17:47 The Importance of Emotional Processing20:53 Self-Compassion and Authenticity28:51 Insights from the Retreat Experience33:20 Looking Ahead: Slowing Down and Self-CareTo access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this episode, Ash welcomes Justine Youl, who shares her remarkable journey of recovery and transformation after facing an abusive relationship, crippling addiction and debilitating mental health. At the peak of her alcoholism, Justine couldn’t even leave her house. Now, over three and a half years sober, Justine runs a thriving international business from her home in Bali, where she lives with her partner and three children. Justine describes the discipline of her morning routine, the importance of setting clear boundaries, and the life-changing effects of breathwork and meditation on her healing process.Justine also bravely opens up about navigating grief, her spiritual journey, and how living with ADHD has shaped her perspective and daily life. Through her experiences, she embodies resilience and hope, demonstrating that it is possible to create a meaningful and joyful life after overcoming immense challenges.This conversation is a powerful reminder of the strength found in self-discovery, the healing power of mindfulness, and the courage it takes to build a fulfilling life one day at a time.Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life after overcoming significant obstacles.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Justine's Journey02:54 Life in Bali: A New Beginning05:41 Facing the Past: Sobriety and Family Dynamics08:30 The Impact of Domestic Violence11:30 The Descent into Addiction14:24 Finding Recovery: The Path to Sobriety17:10 Building a New Life: Parenting and Recovery20:10 The Power of Morning Routines22:54 Navigating Grief and Loss25:54 Establishing Boundaries with Family28:57 Spiritual Growth and Transformation31:47 Breathwork and Meditation: Tools for Healing34:35 The Role of ADHD in Daily Life37:29 Cold Therapy and Its Benefits40:19 The Journey of Faith: Baptism and Belief43:03 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Justine through:Instagram: @jus_youlLinkedIn: Justine YoulTo access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website.Follow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this episode, Ash is joined by Chris Gimpel, a passionate advocate for sobriety and mental health, who shares his courageous journey of overcoming alcohol dependence. Chris speaks candidly about the realities of living with addiction, the pivotal moment that inspired him to seek help, and the ongoing work required to maintain his recovery.The conversation explores the essential role of community, the practice of self-compassion, and the process of rewiring the brain to establish healthier patterns and habits. Chris reflects on the non-negotiables that anchor his daily life, including prioritising rest, spending quality time with his dog, and finding purpose in supporting others on their own paths to healing.This episode is a testament to the power of authenticity and connection, offering hope, practical insight, and inspiration for anyone navigating the challenges of recovery and self-discovery.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Chris Gimple and His Journey06:18 The Role of Pets in Recovery09:15 Life Before Sobriety: A Day in the Life15:57 Understanding Alcohol Dependence22:49 The Recovery Process: Challenges and Realizations25:32 The Turning Point: A Moment of Honesty26:53 Recognizing the Need for Change28:04 Seeking Help and Support29:25 The Role of Family and Self-Worth30:45 Finding Motivation for Recovery33:25 Relearning Emotions and Thoughts36:45 Creating Healthy Patterns37:08 Navigating Challenges in Sobriety42:04 Embracing the Unknown46:26 Choosing Your Hard48:39 Living Authentically and Non-NegotiablesTo access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website You can connect with Chris through his Instagram: @gimpse 4-Week Sober Challenge with Danni Carr
In this deeply inspiring episode, Ash sits down with Sarah Viliamu, founder of The Self Love Supply, to explore her extraordinary journey of resilience, healing, and empowerment. From experiencing childhood homelessness and family violence to navigating the heartbreak of recurrent miscarriages, Sarah opens up about the adversity that has shaped her and the tools that have helped her rise above it. With openness and wisdom, Sarah shares the practices that have supported her path to healing, highlighting the power of self-love, the importance of community, and the courage it takes to keep showing up when life feels unbearable. She reflects on how personal struggles can impact relationships and offers insight into the ways grief can also deepen connection and compassion. Sarah also gives a glimpse into the upcoming Empowered Her event, created to inspire women, foster meaningful connection, and remind us all of the strength that comes from standing together. This is an episode about finding light in the shadows, embracing vulnerability, and choosing resilience as a way forward.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction and Sensitive Topics Warning00:51 Meet Sarah Villiamu: A Journey of Resilience03:29 Life Changes: Pregnancy and Family Dynamics05:12 Behind the Smile: The Reality of Miscarriage08:33 Coping with Loss: Tools for Healing10:40 The Complexity of Grief and Support14:28 Navigating Relationships Through Grief17:00 The Role of Friends in Times of Loss18:06 Childhood Experiences: A Unique Upbringing22:58 Impact of Family Violence on Relationships25:03 Escaping Reality: Coping Mechanisms26:24 The Journey to Modeling and Body Image30:05 Self-Acceptance and Inner Healing37:16 Creating Community: The Self Love Supply39:43 Empowered Her Event: A Space for Women43:14 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeFollow and connect with Sarah below: Instagram @sarahviliamuInstagram @theselflovesupply Tiktok @sarahviliamuFind out more about The Empowered Her Event here.Empowered Her 2025 Event Discount Code = Use the code BTS50 for $50 off the ticket price!To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this episode, Ash is joined by Ryan Bayly, who courageously shares his story of 19 years of sobriety, the mental health battles he has faced, and the isolating experience of living with Sharp Edge Eye Syndrome, a condition doctors struggled to believe. For decades, Ryan hid behind a smile, staying quiet about his pain, carrying the weight of loneliness and misunderstanding.Sobriety became the first step in Ryan’s journey back to himself, helping him rediscover who he truly was beneath the silence and struggle. It opened the door to living fully, embracing travel, and building a life that feels expansive and aligned. He reflects on the freedom that comes from connection, community, and allowing himself to be seen as he really is.This conversation is a raw and inspiring reminder that even in the depths of silence and struggle, connection can bring light. It’s a testament to resilience, self-acceptance, and the hope that comes from walking the journey of recovery together.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Ryan's Journey02:49 Daily Life and Sobriety05:15 The Impact of Mental Health Work07:57 The Struggles of Social Interactions10:39 Childhood Experiences and Their Effects13:06 The Development of Sharp Edge Eye Syndrome15:48 Coping Mechanisms and Alcoholism18:33 The Journey to Recovery21:16 Finding Community and Understanding23:47 The Importance of Breath and Mindfulness26:13 The Power of Sharing and Connection29:23 Non-Negotiables in Life32:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsTo access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this inspiring episode, Ash is joined by Elle McBride, a Certified Havening Techniques® Trainer, who opens up about her personal journey through trauma and the healing work that has transformed her life.Elle shares how discovering Havening became a turning point, not only in her own recovery, but in her ability to help others release the emotional weight of their past. Together, Ash and Elle explore the lasting impact of childhood trauma on adult behavior, and the role of community, self-compassion, and resilience in creating lasting change.This is a powerful conversation about the deep human need for connection, and the practical tools that can guide us toward emotional freedom and healing.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Elle McBride and Havening Techniques03:49 Elle's Personal Journey and Transformation08:33 Understanding Havening Techniques11:49 The Impact of Havening on Clients16:28 Elle's Childhood and Early Influences20:51 Near-Death Experience and Its Significance25:45 Finding Purpose and Meaning Through Challenges27:20 Finding Peace Through Struggles34:34 The Power of Community and Connection36:06 Understanding Childhood Trauma44:02 Healing and Building Resilience47:40 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Elle through social media and her links listed below: Web: www.ellelouisemcbride.comHouse of Delta: www.houseofdelta.comEmail: contact@ellelouisemcbride.comProgram Login: https://havening.podia.com/Train with Elle: https://www.houseofdelta.com.au/haveningtrainingInstagram: @ellelouisemcbrideFacebook: Elle McBride OfficialYouTube: Elle Louise McBrideInsight Timer: Elle Louise McBrideTikTok: @ellelouisemcbrideLinkedIn: Elle Louise McBrideTo access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this heartfelt episode, Ash sits down with her now husband Damian, one week after returning from their surprise elopement and European honeymoon. You guys sent in the questions, and the couple didn’t hold back in answering them. From how they met, to making the decision to elope, what really went down on the wedding day and their favourite memories from the honeymoon, they discuss it all. The conversation also touches on the changes that come with marriage, their future goals, and the keys to maintaining a happy and healthy relationship.The episode highlights are:00:48 The Elopement Surprise: A Love Story Unveiled02:31 How They Met: A Serendipitous Encounter05:28 Navigating Relationships: Trust and Vulnerability09:06 The Proposal: A Moment to Remember10:39 Planning the Elopement: From Bali to Europe16:24 The Wedding Day: A Dream Come True21:45 The Honeymoon Adventures: Exploring Europe27:05 Reflections on Marriage: What Has Changed?32:22 Lessons Learned: The Importance of Routine35:53 Courage and Change: Embracing New Beginnings38:21 What They Love About Each Other: A Deep Connection42:14 Future Goals: Traveling and Growing Together44:39 Non-Negotiables for a Healthy Relationship50:19 Closing Thoughts: Gratitude and AuthenticityTo access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website.Follow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this episode, Ash welcomes back Carlo La Marchesina for an honest conversation about the realities of recovery and the power of emotional resilience. Carlo shares his personal journey, reflecting on the recent challenges he’s faced including grief, loss, and betrayal, and how these experiences have shaped his approach to life and healing.Carlo opens up about the daily routines and non-negotiables that keep him grounded after 17 years of consistent sobriety, emphasising the vital role of both physical and mental health. He speaks to the transformative power of vulnerability and emotional expression, and how leaning into community has been essential to his ongoing recovery.Carlo also discusses the importance of faith and spirituality as cornerstones of his journey, and the inspiration he draws from others walking similar paths. This episode is a testament to the strength found in connection, the courage to feel deeply, and the hope that comes from living authentically one day at a time.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Behind the Smile Podcast02:38 Carlo's Journey in Recovery05:14 Daily Life and Routine in Recovery07:59 The Importance of Physical and Mental Health10:52 Morning Rituals and Mindfulness Practices13:27 Vulnerability and Emotional Expression in Recovery16:22 The Role of Honesty in Long-Term Recovery19:10 Navigating Grief and Loss22:04 Challenges Faced in Recent Years24:37 Finding Purpose in Helping Others27:21 The Impact of Environment on Recovery30:22 Coping with Betrayal and Trust Issues33:06 The Role of Faith and Spirituality36:12 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life38:49 The Importance of Community and Connection41:36 Final Thoughts and Reflections on RecoveryYou can connect with Carlo through Facebook or the Harmony House website.To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this episode, Ash sits down with Blythe Langford, a holistic business mentor, trauma-informed healer, and the definition of resilience. From drowning in debt to building a salon empire, surviving cancer, and radically transforming her life through sobriety, raw veganism and fasting, Blythe’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.She shares the bold rituals and unconventional healing practices that have cracked her wide open, revealing a life of deeper purpose, clarity, and connection. With raw honesty, Blythe reflects on the beauty and burnout of the salon world, her ongoing dance with grief and growth, and her mission to reclaim the salon as a sacred space for transformation.This conversation is a powerful mix of spirituality, strategy, and soul, touching on business as a healing vehicle, turning pain into purpose, and Blythe’s vision to create a retreat and recovery haven for those ready to truly rise.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Blythe Langford's Journey02:00 Life on the Farm and Daily Rituals05:54 Hiding Behind a Smile: Blythe's Past Struggles09:50 Transformative Experiences: Cancer and Lifestyle Changes13:59 The Power of Fasting and Raw Veganism19:10 Urine Therapy: A Unique Healing Practice25:01 Blythe's Hairdressing Journey and Business Acumen35:48 Transformative Experiences in Business42:03 Navigating Personal Trauma and Business Challenges51:52 The Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery56:53 Future Aspirations and Impactful ProjectsYou can connect with Blythe through her website or Instagram here.To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website: https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this episode, Ash is joined by Kyle Stagoll, a crypto trader whose world came crashing down overnight with the collapse of FTX, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in history. What started as a story of rapid success turned into a sobering fall, as Kyle faced the unthinkable: losing everything he’d built.Kyle speaks with raw honesty about the emotional aftermath of that loss, the depression, the isolation, and the shame that followed. He opens up about how childhood wounds shaped his drive for external success, and how hitting rock bottom forced him to confront the patterns of self-sabotage that had quietly followed him for years.But Kyle’s story doesn’t end in the wreckage. Through deep self-reflection and a commitment to personal growth, he began the slow, steady climb back, this time with a different compass. He shares how mindset work, neuroplasticity, and a redefinition of success helped him rebuild a life grounded in purpose, presence, and freedom.This is a powerful conversation about loss, resilience, and the healing that happens when we stop performing and start showing up as our true selves.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Behind the Smile03:04 Kyle's Journey: From Success to Setback05:58 Life After Loss: Coping with Depression08:57 The Impact of FTX: A Financial Catastrophe11:57 Navigating the Aftermath: Rebuilding Life15:07 Reflections on Resilience and Growth25:07 From Rock Bottom to Resilience31:30 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics35:46 Overcoming Self-Sabotage in Trading39:59 The Power of Mindset and Neuroplasticity43:17 Redefining Success and Self-Worth47:14 The Importance of Freedom and Giving Back51:40 Lessons Learned from Financial LossesYou can connect with Kyle through Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this episode, Ash speaks with Rachel Pfeiffer, a psychotherapist and yoga teacher, who shares her journey of healing from trauma, the importance of self-care, and the intersection of psychotherapy and yoga. Rachel opens up about a traumatic time in her life when her identity was not only stolen but exploited, resulting in a landmark court case and subsequent sentencing.She also shares her insights and experiences with burnout, the significance of relationships, and how she continues to show up authentically. The conversation explores the complexities of trauma, the healing process, and the role of movement and breath in supporting mental health.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Rachel Pfeiffer02:27 Daily Life and Finding Fun06:43 Hiding Behind a Smile: A Personal Story14:58 The Impact of Trauma and Healing25:59 The Journey to Becoming a Psychotherapist30:54 Understanding Psychotherapy vs. Psychology35:10 The Journey to Becoming a Yoga Teacher39:30 Integrating Yoga and Psychotherapy44:01 Navigating Relationships in Therapy49:00 Embracing the Messiness of Life57:02 Non-Negotiables for Authentic LivingYou can connect with Rachel through her website or Instagram here. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this episode, Ash is joined by author Peter Norris, a CEO, world-class athlete and the son of one of Australia’s most notorious bank robbers.Peter’s early years were shaped by instability, violence, and addiction, but what unfolds in this conversation is not just a story of survival, it’s one of profound transformation.Peter opens up about the pivotal moments that changed the trajectory of his life: the unlikely mentors who showed him kindness, the brave choices that led him away from generational trauma, and the deep belief that no matter where you come from, you can choose a different path.Now a powerful leader and passionate advocate for vulnerable children, Peter shares how fostering has helped him heal parts of his own past, and how writing his memoir became a cathartic and courageous act of service.This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the impact of compassion, and the radical power of choosing to break the cycle.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Peter's Journey02:55 Life as a Criminal's Son05:48 The Impact of Addiction08:57 Childhood Memories and Trauma12:11 The Search for Normalcy14:56 The Role of Family Dynamics17:59 Early Signs of Criminal Influence21:06 Coping Mechanisms and Resilience24:10 Reflections on Intuition and Trust26:54 The Absence of a Mother29:55 Life in State Care33:08 Turning Adversity into Motivation36:03 Navigating Early Life Challenges39:15 Lessons in Leadership and Kindness42:11 A Pivotal Decision at 1346:56 The Impact of Family and Routine51:17 Fueling the Fire for Success52:50 The Journey of Fostering54:56 The Power of Lived Experience55:43 The Birth of a Book01:00:35 Bravery and Authenticity in Life ChoicesYou can visit Pete’s website here.Or purchase the book here.To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Facebook Website
In this heartfelt episode, Ash is joined by Sheridan Rose Shaw, an award-winning creative director celebrated for her work in the hairdressing industry. She shares her powerful journey of recovery, identity, and self-acceptance.Sheridan speaks openly about her path to sobriety, the transformative impact of breathwork, and the complex reality of parenting while navigating her own healing. Together, Ash and Sheridan explore what it means to live a life beyond just sobriety. They discuss how to navigate recovery while living a big full life, showing up authentically and the courage it takes to lead with vulnerability and purpose.Sheridan also opens up about the struggles she faced getting clean in her early 20s, and the reason why she continues to put in the work today, never taking her recovery for granted. From honesty and spiritual growth, to creating meaningful experiences for others and embracing opportunities with an open heart. This is a raw and empowering conversation about resilience, passion, and the beauty of coming home to yourself.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Authenticity and Recovery02:55 Sheridan's Journey in Hairdressing and Sobriety06:00 The Role of Breathwork in Recovery09:02 Parenting and Relationships in Recovery11:58 Living Life Beyond Recovery14:56 Judgment and Community in Recovery17:57 The Photo: Hiding Behind a Smile22:16 Navigating Personal Transformation23:30 The Challenge of Authenticity24:47 Faking It in Client Services25:50 Compartmentalizing Emotions27:18 Reflections on Past Struggles30:32 The Journey of Recovery32:51 Understanding Rock Bottom35:13 Embracing Sensitivity as Strength36:26 Leadership and Team Dynamics39:03 Creating Meaningful Client Experiences40:34 The Power of Passion and Purpose42:34 The Role of Substance in Pain Management44:50 The Drive for Continuous Growth50:19 The Power of Unconditional Love52:11 Facing Fears and Embracing Change54:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Hard Work56:15 Learning from Failure and Resilience01:01:09 Navigating Relationships in Recovery01:07:20 Spiritual Growth and Connection01:17:35 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Sheridan through her Instagram or her Salon Mamawest. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Website
In this raw and inspiring conversation, Ash is joined by former AFL player Steven Baker who opens up about his story including life after football, hitting rock bottom and turning his life around. After being unexpectedly cut from his AFL career, Steven spiraled into grief, substance abuse, and deep depression, especially following the death of his father. He opens up about how a life of discipline and team camaraderie gave way to escapism, endless partying, and identity loss.Ash and Steven explore the emotional aftermath of elite sport, the stigma around men’s mental health, and what finally helped Steven turn things around. From creating a GRIT model for schools, to competitive boxing, to daily gratitude and appreciation practices.Steven shares a powerful message of mental resilience, vulnerability, and hope.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Authenticity and Resilience02:03 Stephen Baker: From AFL Star to Inspirational Speaker07:58 Facing Personal Struggles: The Dark Side of Fame12:03 The Impact of Grief and Depression19:57 Finding Strength Through Fitness and Community21:58 The Power of Gratitude and Resilience26:00 Turning Points: A Journey from Darkness to Light30:42 Breaking the Silence: Men's Mental Health32:00 Building a Morning Routine for Success39:07 Giving Back: Inspiring the Next Generation42:04 Finding Motivation in Dark TimesYou can connect with Steven on his Instagram here. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Facebook Website
In this powerful episode, Ash is joined by Shannon Pirie, a global beauty executive with decades of experience and a heart-first approach to leadership. From the outside, Shannon’s life looked picture-perfect. But behind the scenes, she was enduring one of the most painful and transformative years of her life: losing her marriage, dream home, and job in quick succession.Shannon opens up about hitting emotional rock bottom, crawling her way through survival mode, and rebuilding one step (and one shuffle) at a time. She speaks candidly about the shame of losing everything, the complexities of grief and forgiveness, and how she began a deep physical and emotional transformation, walking herself back to life, one mile at a time.Now based in Redondo Beach and reconnecting with her truest self, Shannon reflects on the power of female friendships, spiritual surrender, and the courage to live honestly even in the middle of the mess. This is an episode about resilience, grace, and choosing peace in the absence of the perfect ending.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Shannon's Journey03:01 Navigating Personal Struggles and Professional Life05:59 The Impact of Divorce on Identity08:53 The Role of Work in Personal Crisis11:53 Reflections on Loss and Healing15:05 Understanding Financial Security and Relationships18:00 The Path to Self-Discovery and Growth26:42 The Turning Point: Divorce and Transformation32:41 Loss and Identity: Selling the Dream Home38:54 The Unraveling: Job Loss and Self-Reflection46:51 Physical Transformation: The Journey of Weight Loss56:15 Finding Purpose in the Middle: Navigating Life's Challenges01:01:11 Embracing Life's Challenges01:08:39 The Power of Community and Friendship01:15:44 Finding Truth and Surrendering to Life01:21:09 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Shannon through Instagram here. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Facebook Website
In this episode, Ash Butterss sits down with Boaz Gilboa, founder of MindCalmr, osteopath, and trauma-informed coach, to explore what it really takes to reclaim emotional freedom after trauma. Boaz opens up about his journey through divorce, addiction, and family dysfunction, and how programs like NA, ACOA, CODA, and Debtors Anonymous each played a unique role in his growth. He shares how his experience with EMDR inspired him to create MindCalmr, a platform making high-quality trauma processing tools free and accessible.Ash and Boaz discuss the connection between nervous system dysregulation, self-sabotage, and inherited beliefs, how trauma can manifest in subtle ways, and why personal truth is never absolute. This conversation is both intellectually rich and deeply practical, providing tools and reflections for anyone seeking to break free from old patterns and step into a life of authenticity, compassion, and emotional sovereignty.The episode highlights are:00:00 Unmasking the Truth Behind the Smile03:10 Beau's Journey: From Science to Healing06:05 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Personal Growth09:13 Navigating the 12-Step Fellowships12:01 Exploring Codependency and Self-Worth15:13 Understanding Trauma and Its Effects18:03 The Role of Parenting in Emotional Development21:03 Finding Balance in Parenting and Self-Care24:12 The Journey of Financial Responsibility26:59 Defining Codependency and Its Manifestations32:05 Emotional Independence in Relationships34:52 Choosing Yourself: The Journey of Separation36:44 The Impact of Parenting on Future Generations37:56 Exploring EMDR Therapy and Its Benefits43:03 Redefining Truth in Healing48:40 The Connection Between Trauma and Self-Sabotage52:42 Developing a Personal Higher Power57:17 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Boaz through the MindCalmr website here. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Facebook Website
In this week’s episode, Ash is joined by Georgie Irvine, a sobriety and mindset coach and owner of Thrivalist, a global community for sober-curious women. After decades of binge drinking and years of attempting to moderate, Georgie shares the moment she finally called herself out and the freedom she’s found on the other side of alcohol.Georgie speaks candidly about her early days in sobriety, the shame and self-betrayal that came with trying to moderate, and how life changed when she drew a line in the sand. She shares tools that helped her break free, including the concept of the “inner mentor” and the power of playing the tape forward. Georgie also opens up about how her relationship with her husband transformed, the challenges of parenting teens with a sober mindset, and why she paused her own podcast to protect her energy.This is a story of self-leadership, boundary setting, and the deep peace that comes when we finally stop negotiating with alcohol and start showing up for ourselves.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Georgie Irvine and Her Journey03:09 Navigating Life Changes and Personal Growth06:04 Daily Routines and Self-Care Practices09:11 The Impact of Sobriety on Relationships12:06 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Struggles of Alcoholism14:56 The Journey to Sobriety: Overcoming Addiction17:50 The Challenge of Moderation and Alcohol Dependency29:42 The Struggle with Moderation32:00 The Decision to Embrace Sobriety34:40 Breaking Free from Alcohol's Grip36:21 Tools for Overcoming Addiction39:08 Sobriety as an Act of Self-Care40:50 Navigating Relationships in Sobriety43:40 Busting Myths About Sobriety45:41 Communicating Your Sobriety Journey48:17 Setting Boundaries for Self-Care52:45 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Georgie on Instagram here, or through the Thrivalist website. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Facebook Website
In this episode, Ash Butterss sits down with yoga and meditation teacher Kristian Crowe, whose story is one of reinvention, dharma, and finding peace after years of striving. From a decade-long career in musical theatre to life in a Melbourne ashram, Kristian shares what it means to walk away from the roles we’ve outgrown and come home to ourselves.Kristian reflects on his early identity as a performer, living for applause, feeling disconnected, and secretly unraveling behind a perfect smile. He recounts the turning point when, after touring internationally and landing a dream role, he realised that success hadn’t brought the wholeness he expected.What followed was a complete transformation. In this conversation, Kristian opens up about the grief of letting go, the power of yoga and meditation, and how returning to India for teacher training changed everything. He now teaches from a place of deep inner connection, moving beyond performance and into true service.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Authentic Living02:58 Kristian's Journey into Yoga and Meditation06:05 Transformation in India: Immersive Meditation Training11:55 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth17:56 The Struggles Behind the Smile: A Performer’s Story24:10 Ego Death and Embracing a New Identity30:10 The Healing Journey Through Yoga and Self-Acceptance34:15 The Evolution of Teaching and Learning39:10 Non-Striving in Practice44:51 The Power of Stillness49:21 Compassion Through Self-Understanding53:16 Navigating Intimate Relationships58:10 Balancing Material Needs and Spiritual PracticesYou can connect with Kristian via Instagram and through his website here. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Facebook Website
In this episode, Ash reconnects with Laura Corcoran, a Holistic Psychologist and mother of three. Just four weeks after a life-altering breakup and with a six-month-old baby in her arms, Laura joins Ash to talk candidly about what it means to unravel, release, and rise.Laura opens up about walking away from a relationship that no longer aligned, the fears and shame she faced in doing so, and the soul corrections that continue to unfold in her healing journey. She shares how victim consciousness, nervous system regulation, and inner child work have helped her break cycles of hyper-independence and self-abandonment.This episode is a powerful reflection on reclaiming power, sitting with grief, and how motherhood can both dismantle and reforge identity. With insight, vulnerability, and compassion, Laura shows how choosing self-trust, even when terrified, can open the door to a more expansive life.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Laura's Journey02:59 Daily Life and Self-Care Practices06:04 Navigating Change and Transformation08:59 The Impact of Relationships on Personal Growth12:04 Understanding Victim Consciousness14:46 Facing Fears and Making Bold Decisions17:56 The Role of Shame in Personal Transformation21:06 Choosing Your Highest Timeline31:59 Navigating Grief and Emotional Healing40:04 Empowerment Through Motherhood and Relationships44:11 The Victim-Villain-Rescuer Dynamic51:13 Recognizing Needs in Relationships56:01 Personal Growth and Energetic AlignmentYou can connect with Laura through her Instagram or website here.To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Facebook Website
In this latest episode, Ash sits down with Ian Cron, a bestselling author, psychotherapist, Enneagram teacher, and Episcopal priest, to explore the power of recovery, the importance of spiritual growth, and what it really means to heal from the inside out.Ian opens up about his decades-long journey in and out of 12-step recovery, including a relapse in 2020 after many years of sobriety. He shares the turning point that brought him back to the steps, and how going through the process with fresh eyes gave him a new understanding of addiction, spirituality, and lasting transformation.Drawing on his latest book, The Fix, Ian reframes the 12 steps as a universal design for living, offering clarity for anyone seeking to heal broken relationships with self, others, and a higher power. Ash and Ian also discuss the connection between personality, behavior, and healing, the role of the Enneagram in understanding ourselves more deeply, and why true recovery goes far beyond just giving up a substance.This episode is a heartfelt and intellectually rich conversation about grace, growth, and spiritual freedom, whether you identify as being in recovery or not.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Ian Cron and His Journey04:35 Daily Life and Morning Routines07:30 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Photo Story12:18 The Impact of the 12 Steps18:59 The Spiritual Awakening Through the Steps24:09 Overcoming Resistance to a Higher Power29:10 The Journey to Self-Discovery33:14 Understanding the Enneagram and Addiction37:13 The Nature of Addiction and Self-Soothing39:56 The Concept of Being a 'Dry Drunk'43:30 Navigating Recovery and Sharing Stories47:41 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Ian Cron on Instagram here or through his website here. Buy The FIX on Amazon here. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website:https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resourcesFollow and connect with Ash on: Instagram TikTok Facebook Website