Behind The Smile with Ash Butterss

This week, Ash sits down with embodied dance artist and coach Taylah King, whose journey from darkness to rediscovery is both heart-wrenching and deeply inspiring. Taylah opens up about her twelve-year relationship and marriage that began in childhood, the growing inner whisper that something wasn't right, and the vulnerability of walking away from the only safety she'd ever known. From alcohol abuse that started at fourteen to a drug-induced psychosis triggered by ayahuasca, Taylah shares candidly about spending two years dissociated from reality, convinced she was dead, and trapped in a mental health crisis that felt inescapable.She reflects on the terrifying experience of psychosis, the inadequacy of traditional mental health support, and the overwhelming loneliness of not knowing if she'd ever come back. Taylah describes the turning point that changed everything: surrendering to faith, working with a mentor, and falling in love for the first time while sober, which allowed her to finally feel again after years of numbness. Throughout their conversation, Ash and Taylah explore the danger of spiritual bypassing, the power of embodiment practices, and the importance of learning to listen to your nervous system instead of seeking answers outside yourself.Today, Taylah uses dance and movement as medicine, helping others reconnect to their bodies and move freely in the world without substances. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the deepest darkness, there is always a way back home to yourself.Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Taylah's Journey02:56 Rediscovery Through Dance06:05 The Struggles Behind the Smile09:02 Substance Abuse and Its Impact12:01 The Role of Ayahuasca in Healing14:58 Experiencing Psychosis17:55 The Aftermath of Psychosis21:02 Finding Freedom in Movement30:11 The Journey Through Psychosis34:01 Spiritual Awakening and Healing39:12 The Role of Love and Relationships in Recovery43:10 Embodiment and Self-Connection51:13 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Taylah using the links below:Instagram: @taylahkingmovementFollow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssTikTok @behindthesmilewithashbWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comUpcoming Workshops:The Reconnection Ritual | June 21st | Buy Tickets HereJoin Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Ash sits down with powerhouse performer Naomi Eyers, whose four-decade career has taken her from session singer to London’s West End, global tours with The Fabulous Singlettes, and sharing stages with icons like Shirley Bassey and Tom Jones. Behind the spotlight, Naomi has quietly built over 31 years of sobriety, reshaping not just her life in music, but the way she shows up for herself and others.Naomi opens up about her early experiences with alcohol and drugs, the pull of ambition, and the quiet moments that revealed her relationship with drinking was no longer sustainable. She shares candidly about the ups and downs of her recovery journey including her recent heart attack that became a brutal wake-up call, going to rehab with almost three decades of sobriety, and the spiritual and emotional work that followed.Together, they trace Naomi’s journey through addiction, sobriety, and the long road of staying sober through life’s inevitable turmoil including grief, changing relationships, and the ongoing demands of a life in the arts. Naomi reflects on the role of community, the impact of the relationships that held a mirror up when she needed it most, and the way music, fun, and creativity still sit at the heart of her life today, only now grounded in peace rather than chaos.Naomi shares how today she values spiritual connection, honest self-reflection, service, and simple daily routines that keep her anchored in gratitude and presence.Episode chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Retreats and Podcast01:19 Naomi Eyers: A Life in Music03:12 Daily Routine and Morning Practices11:32 Spiritual Connection and Personal Growth15:03 Finding Fun and Connection in Recovery18:11 The Search for Inner Peace22:42 Early Experiences with Alcohol28:27 Life as a Young Performer31:47 The Restless Pursuit of Ambition34:00 Navigating the Music Scene in Sydney36:47 Living in a Narcissistic Bubble39:19 The Illusion of Success42:42 The Catalyst for Change44:31 Rock Bottom and Relationships46:30 The Denial of Alcoholism50:53 The Struggle for Control55:30 The Moment of Surrender01:00:12 Awakening to the Truth01:04:11 Finding a New Path in Recovery01:08:13 The Struggle of Sobriety01:09:42 The Journey of Recovery and Relapse01:11:37 Relationships and Higher Powers01:13:33 The Impact of Lockdown on Relationships01:16:39 The Heart Attack: A Wake-Up Call01:18:28 Seeking Help: The Path to Recovery01:22:17 Experiences at South Pacific Private01:25:09 The Importance of Vulnerability in Recovery01:30:24 The Power of Community and Connection01:36:56 Letting Go and Embracing Change01:40:41 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeFollow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssTikTok @behindthesmilewithashbWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comUpcoming Workshops:Join Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Ash sits down with principal consultant and founder of the Energy Collective Co, Jade Donegan, to explore what it really means to care for your inner world while navigating the demands of work, family, and grief. Jade shares how her spirituality helped her to navigate the profound rupture of losing her dad, a loss that reshaped how she sees life, love, and success.She opens up about her journey through grief and forgiveness, the unexpected signs she still receives from her father, and the emotional toll of trying to keep going when your heart is somewhere else. Ash and Jade dive into the importance of emotional health at work, the need for accountability in professional spaces, and how understanding our own energy can change the way we lead, collaborate, and show up for the people around us.Throughout their conversation, Jade reflects on the transformative power of practices like Reiki, and how they’ve helped her build self-awareness, soften self-judgment, and create workplaces where wellbeing is taken seriously. Together, they talk about moving through emotions rather than getting stuck in them, and the courage it takes to let yourself feel everything without shutting down. At its heart, this episode is an invitation to meet yourself with empathy whether you’re sitting in grief, in transition, or in growth. You’ll walk away with insights on how to build a life and career that honour both your humanity and your healing.Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Retreats and Personal Growth01:51 Meet Jade Donegan: A Journey of Transformation04:04 Daily Life and Finding Joy in Learning08:10 The Move to New Zealand: A Family Adventure11:32 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Impact of Grief19:06 Navigating Grief: A Personal Story of Loss23:44 Navigating Numbness and Helplessness24:26 The Journey of Forgiveness25:55 A Life-Changing Accident28:20 Empathy and Forgiveness in Grief29:36 Signs from Beyond36:50 The Power of Reiki43:03 Workplace Wellbeing and AccountabilityYou can connect with Jade using the links below:http://www.energycollectiveco.com.au/Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssTikTok @behindthesmilewithashbWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comJoin Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Ash sits down with Carly Schwartz, author of I’ll Try Anything Twice, to talk about what it really looks like to live through the darkest corners of your own mind and make it out the other side. Carly traces her journey from childhood anxiety to years of depression, substance use, and suicidal ideation, sharing the moments of denial, fear, and quiet desperation that shaped her path.She opens up about the turning point of finally naming her addiction and the life-changing experience of going to rehab, not as a neat overnight fix, but as the beginning of a very human, very imperfect recovery. Ash and Carly explore the messy middle of healing: the shame that keeps us silent, the relief of being truly seen, and the deep importance of community and storytelling in breaking through isolation.Throughout their conversation, Carly reflects on what it means to personalise recovery rather than squeeze it into a one-size-fits-all mold. She speaks to the need for flexibility, self-acceptance, and learning to listen to your own needs as they evolve over time. At its heart, this episode is a testament to resilience and connection, a reminder that while recovery is rarely linear, it is always possible, especially when we’re willing to tell the truth, reach out, and let others walk beside us.Episode chapters:00:00 Introduction to Carly Schwartz and Her Journey11:03 The Struggles Behind the Smile17:09 Childhood Anxiety and Early Signs of Depression23:20 The Dark Side of Substance Use and Suicidal Ideation28:26 The Struggle with Substance Use and Denial32:03 The Turning Point: Seeking Help and Going to Rehab37:00 Building a New Life in Recovery45:27 Personalizing Recovery: Finding What Works51:03 The Power of Community in RecoverySupport ServicesIf this conversation has brought anything up for you, please know you don’t have to go through it alone. Support is always available. You can reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 for mental health support and guidance, or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 for free counselling.Connect with Carly using the links below:Website - https://www.carly.ink/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carlicitaLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlicita/Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/236558341-i-ll-try-anything-twiceAmazon - https://www.amazon.com/Ill-Anything-Twice-Misadventures-Self-Medicated/dp/B0FD8RPH9L/Bookshop - https://bookshop.org/p/books/i-ll-try-anything-twice-misadventures-of-a-self-medicated-life-carly-schwartz/591dca26d9b8c510 Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssTikTok @behindthesmilewithashbWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comJoin Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week you’re invited to listen in as Ash sits down with her lifelong friend Edwina, to explore what it means to remake your life in the wake of loss, motherhood, and big internal change. Edwina opens up about the sudden death of her brother, how grief reshaped her sense of self, and the quiet, courageous decision to question her relationship with alcohol.She shares what happened when she chose an alcohol-free life, not just on the surface, but in her identity, her friendships, and the way she shows up as a mother and a woman. Ash and Edwina dive into the role of therapy on this path, unpacking powerful modalities like EMDR, and how these practices helped her meet the younger parts of herself with compassion instead of criticism.Together, they talk about the fears that come with sobriety and the unexpected gifts that arrive when the noise of drinking is stripped away. The conversation shines a light on how retreats, community, and intentional healing practices can open space for self-discovery, deeper connection, and true emotional safety.Episode Chapters:​​00:00 Introduction to Retreats and Self-Discovery01:35 Meet Edwina: A Journey Through Life03:34 Navigating Grief and Vulnerability06:44 The Impact of Injury on Identity09:11 Finding Purpose in Adversity11:01 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Photo Story21:17 The Unfairness of Life and Loss23:00 Alcohol: A Coping Mechanism35:13 Healing and Understanding Family Dynamics35:48 Therapeutic Journeys: Exploring EMDR and Internal Family Systems38:02 The Alcohol-Free Awakening: A Personal Journey42:09 Facing Fears: The Terrifying Decision to Quit Drinking46:14 Redefining Relationships: Alcohol and Authentic Connections50:21 Building Deeper Friendships: The Shift in Social Dynamics55:12 The Power of Vulnerability: Authenticity in Relationships01:01:05 Embracing Change: The Journey of Self-Discovery01:07:52 Investing in Self: The Importance of Personal Retreats01:12:30 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life: Community, Nourishment, and MovementFollow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssTikTok @behindthesmilewithashbWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comUpcoming Workshops:Join Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, Ash is joined by her mentor and high performance advisor, Mark “Dobbo” Dobson, for a thought-provoking exploration of what it truly takes to grow, evolve, and rise after life challenges you. Together they dive beneath surface level success and unpack the real work behind clarity, purpose, and personal expansion.Dobbo shares hard-earned wisdom on defining your values, sharpening your vision, and having the courage to live in full alignment with who you really are. They also explore how adversity can become a catalyst for transformation, and why the relationships we choose play a pivotal role in shaping the person we become.This conversation is a powerful reminder that meaningful growth is not built on perfection, it is built on honesty, resilience, and the willingness to turn life’s hardest moments into the foundation for something greater.You can connect with Dobbo through his website www.dobbo.com.au. Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssTikTok @behindthesmilewithashbWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comJoin Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Ash has a raw conversation with husband, father, and sober human Vim Verma as they discuss addiction, identity, and what happens when you finally stop running from yourself. Vim opens up about growing up in a mixed-race culture where drinking was normalised, emotions were rarely spoken about, and asking for help felt almost impossible.Together, they unpack the quiet pressures of family expectations, the heavy emotional charge of the holiday season, and the stigma that keeps so many people suffering in silence. There are moments of grief, moments of clarity, and Vim’s classic humour, that remind us how human this journey really is.Vim also shares how his recovery program, meditation, and spiritual practice became a turning point, helping him strip back the noise and reconnect with who he is beneath the coping mechanisms. This is a conversation about breaking cycles, choosing courage over comfort, and discovering that real healing starts on the inside.If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, felt trapped by expectations, or wondered what life could look like if you truly listened to yourself, this episode will land.Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Retreats and Self-Discovery01:34 Vim Verma's Journey to Sobriety03:45 Navigating Sobriety During the Holidays04:54 Cultural Influences on Drinking07:24 The Impact of Family Dynamics07:53 Getting to Know Vim: Daily Life and Fun14:06 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Photo Story16:20 The Progression of Alcoholism19:05 Consequences of Drinking: Crashing and Bashing28:18 The Turning Point: Seeking Help31:44 Experiences in Early Recovery38:47 Finding Hope in Recovery41:54 Life After Sobriety: Changes and Growth47:50 Navigating Life's Challenges in Recovery51:23 The Role of Support in Recovery59:46 Non-Negotiables for a Happy LifeYou can connect with Vim through his Instagram here. Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssTikTok @behindthesmilewithashbWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comUpcoming Workshops:A Return To You | One Day Retreat Sunday 22nd February, 2026Tickets available here. Join Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Ash sits down with husband, father, and business owner James Date to explore what life looks like after addiction—and how recovery has reshaped the way he moves through the world.James shares how community, service, and genuine connection became the anchors of his sobriety, transforming what once felt like isolation into a life rich with meaning and purpose. He speaks openly about the power of vulnerability, the role of daily routines and prayer in keeping him grounded, and how embracing honesty has deepened his relationships at home and beyond.Together, Ash and James confront the lingering stigma around addiction and discuss the strength it takes to ask for help. Through moments of reflection and gratitude, James reveals the quiet joy found in showing up authentically each day—a reminder that recovery isn’t just about living without substances, but about rediscovering who you are underneath it all.Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction to James Date and His Journey02:54 The Importance of Connection and Community in Recovery05:52 Daily Routines and Spiritual Practices08:58 The Role of Surrender in Recovery11:58 Compassion and Kindness in Daily Life15:01 Finding Joy in Service and Helping Others17:57 The Impact of Sponsorship in Recovery21:03 The Struggles of Identifying as an Addict24:03 Behind the Smile: A Photo Reflection26:53 The Journey to Acknowledging Addiction30:08 Understanding the Roots of Addiction32:54 The Ongoing Journey of Recovery36:18 Understanding Alcoholism and Addiction38:30 Rock Bottom Moments42:14 Finding the Right Rehab49:34 The Journey of Outpatient Recovery51:23 The Importance of Vulnerability56:54 Reconnecting with Self and Family01:02:25 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeConnect with James below:Instagram: @slayingsoberPodcast: Slaying Sober - listen on Spotify Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comUpcoming Workshops:A Return To You | One Day Retreat Sunday 22nd February, 2026Tickets available here. Join Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After years of living with a debilitating condition, Rick Watson has learned what it truly means to face fear and find freedom on the other side. In this episode, the holistic coach and gestalt therapist in training opens up about the profound transformation that followed his diagnosis, the trauma of constant uncertainty, and the life-altering decision to undergo brain surgery. Rick shares how recovery from both the physical and emotional toll of his condition sparked a deeper journey toward authenticity and self-understanding. As he describes his transition into therapy, he unpacks the core principles of gestalt work: presence, honesty, and the courage to be seen as you are. The conversation explores how health challenges can reshape identity, relationships, and purpose and how taking full responsibility for our emotions becomes the key to freedom. Together, Ash and Rick reflect on themes of vulnerability, generational patterns, and the importance of truly listening to ourselves and others. They discuss burnout in helping professions, the meaning found in midlife transitions, and the art of mapping one’s inner world to reveal clarity and connection. Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Rick Watson and His Journey02:58 Living with Epilepsy: The Hidden Struggles05:55 The Impact of Brain Surgery and Recovery08:57 Life After Epilepsy: Embracing Freedom11:54 Transitioning to Therapy: A New Path15:02 Gestalt Therapy: Understanding the Modality18:05 The Importance of Being Present20:48 Personal Growth Through Therapy Retreats23:58 Authenticity: The Journey to Being Yourself32:01 The Power of Vulnerability in Men's Circles35:56 Unpacking Core Wounds and Generational Patterns39:48 Navigating Burnout and Protecting Energy44:04 The Importance of Listening and Emotional Responsibility49:00 Finding Meaning in Midlife Transitions55:53 Mapping the Inner Self for Clarity01:00:59 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Rick through:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rickwatson_/Website: https://www.rickwatson.com.au/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3r8QaWJYgB73pOF9b0Hi0t?si=76e4b44b93864ba0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of this conversation, Gabby opens up about what happened after her first attempt at recovery, when alcohol crept back in and the old patterns she thought she’d left behind began to resurface in new, painful ways.She speaks honestly about the experience of being a “dry drunk,” white-knuckling her way through sobriety without true emotional healing, and how that disconnection eventually led her back to party drugs and an inevitable rock bottom. Through raw reflection, Gabby unpacks the misconceptions she once held about addiction and sobriety, the fear that kept her stuck, and the moment she finally became willing to seek deeper help.She explores the ongoing nature of recovery: the reality of relapse, the weight of unaddressed trauma, and the mental health struggles that don’t magically disappear when the substances do. Ash and Gabby talk about the power of community, the safety of honest relationships, and the courage it takes to let others in when shame is loud. At the heart of this episode is a message of hope, about the transformative role of gratitude, self-awareness, and self-care in building a life that is not just sober, but genuinely connected and worth staying for.Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning01:00 First Round of Recovery: A Journey Begins05:51 The Struggle with Alcohol and Denial09:59 The Dry Drunk Experience14:01 Revisiting Old Habits: The Return of Party Drugs19:53 Rock Bottom: A Descent into Darkness28:16 Facing Fear and Seeking Help31:42 The Journey to Rehab32:39 Discovering Community in Recovery35:40 Relapse and Realizations38:17 Understanding Rock Bottom41:54 Navigating Mental Health in Recovery45:49 Exploring CPTSD and Healing51:53 Finding Balance in Recovery57:24 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeConnect with Gabby: IG: @bellylaughsbrutalhonesty and @gabriellesiobhan Podcast: Belly Laughs and Brutal Honesty Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comUpcoming Workshops:A Return To You | One Day Retreat Sunday 22nd February, 2026Tickets available here. Join Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here!Support ServicesIf this conversation has brought anything up for you, please know you don’t have to go through it alone. Support is always available. You can reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 for mental health support and guidance, or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 for free counselling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back by popular demand, this father daughter episode brings the conversation close to home, as Ash sits down with her dad, Rod, to explore what it truly means to grow, heal, and live with intention. Together, they reflect on how energy, consciousness, and the way we choose to see the world can shape the course of a life far more than circumstance ever could.Together, Ash and Rod dive into the practices that have supported their own journeys, including gratitude and meditation, and how these tools have helped them navigate relationships, soften old patterns, and find a deeper sense of peace beneath ambition and material success. They speak honestly about the complexities of family dynamics, the tension between chasing more and being enough, and the ongoing work of aligning how you live with what really matters.With the holiday season looming, their conversation turns to the emotional weight that Christmas can carry, especially for those in recovery or struggling behind the scenes. They share gentle, practical insights on protecting your energy, setting boundaries, and meeting yourself with compassion during a time that can feel anything but festive. At its heart, this episode is an invitation to slow down, look within, and choose kindness, to yourself and others, as a daily, deliberate practice.Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Holistic Retreat00:45 Exploring Personal Growth and Energy03:19 The Power of Ho'oponopono and Forgiveness06:17 Understanding Consciousness and Energy Frequencies08:53 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth11:39 The Role of Gratitude in Healing14:29 Reflections on Materialism and Happiness18:03 Ambition vs. Inner Peace21:53 The Importance of Self-Awareness24:45 Christmas and Family Dynamics27:25 Coping with Holiday Stress and Expectations30:03 Navigating Sober Holidays34:06 Finding Peace in Family Gatherings36:42 The Shift from Materialism to Experiences39:42 The Importance of Kindness and Connection42:28 Final Thoughts and Non-Negotiables for HappinessFollow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comUpcoming Workshops:A Return To You | One Day Retreat Sunday 22nd February, 2026Tickets available here. Join Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing up on the streets of London, Damo H learned at an early age how to outrun pain, but it always caught up. In this candid and moving episode, Damo traces his journey through childhood trauma, the shadow of addiction, and the relentless pursuit of healing.He recounts how alcohol first became his refuge, how physical injury and prescription medication complicated his path, and how new beginnings in Australia brought a new set of challenges. The rock bottoms came again and again, each one forcing him to confront the reality of his disease.Through service, community, and the support of a 12-step program, Damo found answers that went deeper than sobriety. He shares how recovery reshaped his family, revived his passion for photography, and gave him a sense of purpose. With honesty and hope, Damo reveals what it means to rebuild life from the ground up, and how after years of struggle, he’s learning to embrace happiness, gratitude, and authentic connection.Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Letting Go Ritual00:51 Meet Damo H: A Journey Begins02:57 Daily Life and Recovery Practices05:59 The Role of Service in Recovery08:47 Childhood and Family Dynamics12:01 The First Drink: A Turning Point14:55 Growing Up in London: The Streets and Gangs18:11 The Impact of Alcoholism on Relationships20:50 Moving to Australia: New Beginnings24:09 Career and Alcoholism: A Fragile Balance27:08 Rehab and the Road to Sobriety30:00 Family Tragedies and Resilience32:04 Reflections on Sobriety and Happiness36:24 The Slippery Slope of Addiction39:54 The Return to Alcohol46:11 Rock Bottoms and Revelations50:40 A New Approach to Sobriety01:01:30 Building a New Life in Sobriety01:07:20 Non-Negotiables for a Happy LifeFollow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comUpcoming Workshops:The Letting Go Ritual: Breathwork, Yin, and Intention Setting for 2026Tickets available here. A Return To You | One Day Retreat Sunday 22nd February, 2026Tickets available here. Join Ash on retreat in 2026!The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For Shannon McCabe, hitting rock bottom became the beginning of everything. Once living a life that looked “fine” on the outside yet was quietly ruled by addiction, Shannon, a sober coach and transformation mentor, opens up about the raw truth of her journey through alcohol dependency and the deep healing that followed.In this powerful conversation, Ash and Shannon explore the emotional unraveling that precedes real change, the spiritual awakening that came through surrender, and the daily rituals that now anchor her sobriety. Shannon speaks honestly about motherhood and the challenges that come with caring for a child with special needs. The shame she battled on a daily basis through her addiction. Rediscovering self-worth, and showing how setting boundaries and embracing community became her path to peace.This episode is a reminder that recovery isn’t about who you were, it’s about who you’re becoming.Episode chapters:00:00 Introduction to Shannon's Journey02:05 A Day in the Life of a Sober Mom04:48 The Importance of Morning Routines06:50 Devotional Practices and Spirituality13:46 Behind the Smile: A Photo Reflection21:40 The Progression of Alcohol Use31:41 Moments of Clarity and Rock Bottoms37:43 The All-or-Nothing Mindset44:45 Non-Negotiables for a Sober Life53:19 Navigating Relapses and Setbacks58:42 Living Authentically and FreeYou can connect with Shannon using the links below:Website: www.shannonleighmccabe.comIG @shannonleighmccabeFollow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterssWebsite⁠ www.ashbutterss.comThe Letting Go Ritual: Breathwork, Yin, and Intention Setting for 2026Tickets available here. Join Ash on retreat in Bali in 2026! All the details can be found at https://www.ashbutterss.com/bali-retreat-2026. Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.