If you are running on empty and need space to reset, recharge, and reconnect with yourself, book your Bathhouse experience here:
https://thebathhouse.try.be/ 

In the first episode of the Ambitious but Exhausted Podcast, Ash shares the personal health crisis that forced her to confront the cost of putting herself last, and why burnout often shows up in a business long before it shows up in the body.

She breaks down the three warning signs she missed, how stress, guilt, and emotional overwhelm affected her finances, team, and relationship, and the practical tools that helped her reconnect with her health, clarity, and purpose.

Ash dives into:

◼️ Why putting your business, family, and everyone else first eventually catches up with you
◼️ The personal spiral that led Ash to a life-threatening health wake-up call
◼️ Why running on empty can affect your business long before you recognise it physically
◼️ How an emotionally unregulated leader can see stress show up in cash flow
◼️ Why team culture and dynamics shift when a founder is no longer truly present
◼️ How unresolved stress can spill into your closest relationships
◼️ Why every founder needs a business that can continue operating without them
◼️ How daily coping habits can quietly make stress worse over time
◼️ Why yoga, breathwork, and quiet reflection became key parts of Ash’s recovery
◼️ How guilt and the belief that you are “not enough” can block growth as a woman and leader
◼️ Why journalling and time away can reconnect you with your most valuable ideas
◼️ How to slow down, reconnect with your why, and stop being so hard on yourself

00:00:00 The real cost of putting yourself last
00:00:48 How Ash reached breaking point in life and business
00:01:54 The health crisis that became a serious wake-up call
00:04:46 Surgery complications, fear, and the long recovery
00:06:31 Why your business needs to run without you
00:07:52 What running on empty was really costing Ash
00:08:24 The first business warning sign: cash flow
00:09:19 The second warning sign: team culture and leadership
00:10:19 The third warning sign: relationships and emotional wellbeing
00:11:54 Yoga, breathwork, and reducing alcohol as recovery tools
00:13:19 Guilt, self-worth, and the subconscious belief of not being enough
00:14:28 Why quiet space, journalling, and travel create clarity
00:15:34 Ash’s message for women who feel overwhelmed and stuck
00:16:22 Reconnecting with your why in a world of constant noise

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode of Poolside Perspectives, we sit down with Fergil Mestanov, seasoned beauty industry leader, business mentor, and mum of two, whose 26-year career has spanned everything from launching high-performing skin care clinics, to now leading the charge in luxury fashion retail.

Fergil shares her inspiring journey of entrepreneurship, motherhood, and finding balance after burnout. With a no-fluff approach to business, she opens up about the realities of leadership, what really drives client loyalty, and why taking time out was the best decision she ever made.

Listen in for more on:
 1:15 – How Fergil got her start and grew a 7-day-a-week clinic empire
 4:40 – Life after loss, burnout, and making the bold decision to step away
 7:45 – The best business advice that’s guided her for 26 years
 10:00 – How to take emotion out of tough conversations and lead with clarity
 14:25 – 2025 marketing trends: real people, real stories, real impact
 22:15 – Her biggest personal and professional challenge—and how she came through it

This episode is filled with wisdom, relatability, and that refreshing real talk every woman in business needs to hear!

Fergil’s Links:
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/fergil_business_consultant

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode of Poolside Perspectives, we sit down with Jane Mow, globally recognized Personal Brand Stylist and Style Coach, who helps female leaders and entrepreneurs elevate their image with intentional style. With 17 years of experience working with CEOs, keynote speakers, and high-achieving professionals, Jane knows firsthand how aligning your wardrobe with your personal brand can open doors to new opportunities.

From her early days in the fashion industry to leading creative direction for luxury brands and styling television personalities, Jane’s journey has been driven by a passion for transformation—helping women step into their confidence through what they wear. As the founder of What You Wear Is Your Business Card, she teaches women how to build a wardrobe that reflects their identity and positions them for success.

Listen in for more on:

• 1:30 – Where Jane’s journey started
• 7:00 – Overcoming self-doubt and limiting beliefs in personal branding
• 9:00 – Navigating career shifts and embracing change
• 12:45 – The role of determination and alignment in personal growth
• 20:00 – Style tips for mums who want to feel good and dress for success
• 27:30 – How to start building a wardrobe that works for you
• 34:00 – Why creating a style archive can be a game-changer

Get ready to refine your style, boost your confidence, and show up as the expert you are! Don’t forget to show your support by rating, reviewing and sharing this podcast!

Jane’s Links
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/janemowstylist
Website- https://janemow.com
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/janemow?originalSubdomain=au

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode of Poolside Perspectives, we sit down with Michelle Pascoe, founder of Optimum Operating Procedures and Services (OOPS) and one of Australia’s leading voices in leadership development and customer experience. From her humble beginnings on a turkey farm in regional Australia to building a thriving training and research business, Michelle’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unlocking untapped potential.

With over 30 years of experience, Michelle works closely with organizations to foster positive workplace cultures, navigate generational diversity, and elevate customer service standards. She’s passionate about helping individuals see the possibilities within themselves and create a life of their own choosing.

Listen in for more on:

• 2:00 – Michelle’s sharing her story. 
• 7:45 – How to get your team on board and drive alignment.
• 13:30 – Leading across generations: Bridging the gaps in workplace dynamics.
• 26:00 – The future of AI in business and what leaders need to know.
• 33:00 – Overcoming adversity: The toughest challenge Michelle has faced in business.

If you’re ready to transform your leadership approach, embrace innovation, and create lasting impact, this episode is for you!

Michelle’s Links:
Website: https://www.michellepascoe.com/
Podcast “Customer Retention Revolution”- https://open.spotify.com/show/587NtMf341AKPX26R53TIW
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/michelle.pascoe/

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode of Poolside Perspectives, we sit down with Heidi Anderson, bestselling author, confidence coach, and former top-rating radio presenter, on a mission to help others break free from self-doubt and step into their power. Known for her raw honesty and fearless approach, Heidi first made waves in 2016 when she opened up about her battle with anxiety live on air, sparking a movement of empowerment and authenticity.

With two decades of media experience, Heidi now teaches women how to own their voices through her programs, Shed Your Shit and Drunk on Confidence. From navigating ADHD to building a strong support network, she shares powerful insights on embracing confidence, creating change, and giving the next generation the tools to speak up.

Listen in for more on:
 3:00 – Shit show moments: Heidi’s journey and what led her here.
 13:00 – Dealing with ADHD: How it shows up and ways to manage it.
 19:30 – Recognizing when you’re not okay and making a change.
 26:45 – The power of surrounding yourself with the right people.
 29:45 – Why giving kids a voice and the right tools matters.

If you’re ready to let go of self-doubt, own your story, and step into confidence, this episode is for you!

Heidi’s Links:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_heidianderson
Website - https://www.heidileeanderson.com/

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode, we sit down with Angela Dickson, Founder of Beauty Business Co and social media educator behind Beauty Boss Pro. Angela is on a mission to empower BeautyPreneurs to unlock their full potential, master social marketing, and confidently build purpose-driven businesses that fuel their dream lives.

With her wealth of industry knowledge and passion for helping entrepreneurs show up authentically online, Angela shares invaluable insights on navigating social media trends, overcoming self-doubt, and creating meaningful connections in the beauty space. Whether you’re looking to elevate your online presence, step past the fear of judgment, or gain inspiration from transformative experiences, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.

Listen in for more on:
 3:00 – Angela’s journey: How she got started in the beauty industry.
 14:30 – Social media shifts: What’s trending in 2025?
 19:15 – Overcoming the fear of posting and feeling judged.
 24:30 – The power of retreats: A workshop that changed everything.
 30:00 – Angela’s must-read book recommendations.

If you’re ready to level up your beauty business, show up with confidence, and embrace social media as a tool for success, this episode is for you!

Angela’s Links:
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/beautybusinessco_
Website- https://www.beautybusinessco.com

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode, we sit down with Erika Cramer, internationally acclaimed confidence coach, speaker, and best-selling author, widely known as "The Queen of Confidence." With her bold, no-nonsense approach and infectious energy, Erika has empowered thousands of women worldwide to break through fear, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs to step into their most authentic, confident selves.

From her own powerful transformation to guiding others on their journeys, Erika shares hard-earned wisdom on radical responsibility, self-love, and the importance of showing up fully in every aspect of life. Whether you’re looking to build unwavering confidence, align with your true self, or embrace a fearless mindset, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways.

Listen in for more on:
4:00 – Erika’s journey: How she got to where she is today.
9:30 – Is confidence really about doing the work to love yourself?
17:45 – Radical responsibility: What it means and why it matters.
24:15 – The impact of how you show up for those around you.
28:15 – Authenticity and self-alignment: How to check in with yourself.
29:30 – A sneak peek into Erika’s new book.

If you’re ready to ditch self-doubt, own your truth, and build unshakable confidence, this episode is for you!

Erika’s Links:
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thequeenofconfidence
LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-cramer-queenconfidence

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode we sit down with Saffron Mead, a seasoned design and marketing professional with over 25 years of experience helping businesses of all sizes turn their ideas into impactful customer experiences. From her early days in website design, transforming a small studio into a full-service agency, to running her own thriving graphic design business with notable clients like The Botanic Gardens and NSW Health, Saffron has been a powerhouse of creativity and strategy.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Saffron’s heart for community shines through her initiative, Kidabout in Macarthur, which raised $20,000 for charity and earned her the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2014. Today, she balances her work as a hands-on business owner with family life, fitness, and mental well-being, all while guiding passionate entrepreneurs to build meaningful brands and successful ventures.

In this conversation, Saffron shares her entrepreneurial journey, insights into the evolving design industry, and practical advice for business owners navigating modern challenges. Whether you’re curious about starting with a solid brand, exploring AI’s role in graphic design, or redefining what success looks like, this episode is full of inspiring takeaways!

Listen in for more on:
4:00 – Saffron’s background and journey into design and entrepreneurship.
7:00 – Why more resources, like offices or large teams, don’t always mean more success.
14:30 – AI’s impact on graphic design and the future of business.
22:00 – The biggest pain points business owners face today.
31:00 – How to build a strong brand on a small budget.

If you’re a business owner looking to align strategy with creativity or a dreamer ready to bring your ideas to life, this episode is for you!

Saffron’s Links
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/saffronandcocreative
Website- www.saffronandco.com.au 

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode, we sit down with Sommer Louise, a mentor, entrepreneur, and business leader, who is on a mission to help women break through self-doubt and shift their mindset to create the success and happiness they truly desire. With a unique approach blending science, energy, and strategy, Sommer empowers her clients to align their thoughts, feelings, and actions to achieve their biggest goals.

With 17 years in the startup world and experience mentoring businesses for over a decade, Sommer has built and invested in multiple ventures, from eCommerce brands to blockchain and AI. As the CEO of Bioscapes Group Pty Ltd and an Australian Ambassador for Light Dao, she is transforming the way women approach business and success—one empowered mindset at a time.

In this conversation, Sommer shares her entrepreneurial evolution, the mindset shifts that changed everything, and the strategies she uses to stay focused and aligned while balancing business and motherhood. If you’re feeling stuck, struggling to tune out external noise, or looking for tools to fuel your passion, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

Listen in for more on:
 5:15 – How Sommer got to where she is today.
 9:45 – What led her to coaching and doing the work on herself.
 15:30 – Tools for breaking free from feeling stuck and pursuing what you love.
 19:30 – How to block out outside noise and where to start the inner work.
 28:15 – The biggest challenges of managing a team.
 32:15 – Sommer’s top advice for balancing motherhood and business.

If you’re ready to shift your mindset, step into your power, and create the success you’ve been dreaming of, this episode is for you!

Sommer’s Links
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/sommerlouiseb

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

In this episode, we sit down with Marina Middleton, Co-Owner & CEO of Create & Cultivate, serial entrepreneur, business strategist, and motivational speaker. As an Egyptian immigrant, Marina overcame significant challenges on her journey to building a career dedicated to empowering female leaders across industries.

Marina shares how she leveraged her personal story to create impactful brands, including her personal brand development company, Empowered Confidence, and her latest venture leading Create & Cultivate. With experience working on digital media campaigns for major global brands at Yahoo and Tumblr, Marina has a deep understanding of brand-building, leadership, and community growth.

In this conversation, Marina offers practical advice on confidence, business strategy, and personal branding, along with insights into the biggest trends for 2025. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring leader, or looking to balance motherhood and career, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

Listen in for more on:
 3:30 – How Marina got to where she is today.
 7:45 – A tip for someone that might be struggling with confidence.
 11:45 – Managing motherhood while chasing big goals.
 18:30 – Advice for building a brand when starting a business.
 20:15 – The biggest business trends for 2025.
 22:30 – How to separate your personal brand from your business.
 26:30 – Tips for community-building and strengthening relationships.
 32:30 – Marina’s number one piece of advice.

If you’re looking for inspiration on how to build a brand, grow a business, and lead with confidence, this episode is for you!

Marina’s Links
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/marinaamiddleton
Website- https://www.marinamiddleton.com
Create and Cultivate- https://www.instagram.com/createcultivate

Let's Connect:
Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney
https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a
TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_