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 Pfeiffer

02:27 Daily Life and Finding Fun

06:43 Hiding Behind a Smile: A Personal Story

14:58 The Impact of Trauma and Healing

25:59 The Journey to Becoming a Psychotherapist

30:54 Understanding Psychotherapy vs. Psychology

35:10 The Journey to Becoming a Yoga Teacher

39:30 Integrating Yoga and Psychotherapy

44:01 Navigating Relationships in Therapy

49:00 Embracing the Messiness of Life

57:02 Non-Negotiables for Authentic Living

You 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-resources⁠

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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 Journey

02:55 Life as a Criminal's Son

05:48 The Impact of Addiction

08:57 Childhood Memories and Trauma

12:11 The Search for Normalcy

14:56 The Role of Family Dynamics

17:59 Early Signs of Criminal Influence

21:06 Coping Mechanisms and Resilience

24:10 Reflections on Intuition and Trust

26:54 The Absence of a Mother

29:55 Life in State Care

33:08 Turning Adversity into Motivation

36:03 Navigating Early Life Challenges

39:15 Lessons in Leadership and Kindness

42:11 A Pivotal Decision at 13

46:56 The Impact of Family and Routine

51:17 Fueling the Fire for Success

52:50 The Journey of Fostering

54:56 The Power of Lived Experience

55:43 The Birth of a Book

01:00:35 Bravery and Authenticity in Life Choices

You 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-resources⁠

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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 Recovery

02:55 Sheridan's Journey in Hairdressing and Sobriety

06:00 The Role of Breathwork in Recovery

09:02 Parenting and Relationships in Recovery

11:58 Living Life Beyond Recovery

14:56 Judgment and Community in Recovery

17:57 The Photo: Hiding Behind a Smile

22:16 Navigating Personal Transformation

23:30 The Challenge of Authenticity

24:47 Faking It in Client Services

25:50 Compartmentalizing Emotions

27:18 Reflections on Past Struggles

30:32 The Journey of Recovery

32:51 Understanding Rock Bottom

35:13 Embracing Sensitivity as Strength

36:26 Leadership and Team Dynamics

39:03 Creating Meaningful Client Experiences

40:34 The Power of Passion and Purpose

42:34 The Role of Substance in Pain Management

44:50 The Drive for Continuous Growth

50:19 The Power of Unconditional Love

52:11 Facing Fears and Embracing Change

54:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Hard Work

56:15 Learning from Failure and Resilience

01:01:09 Navigating Relationships in Recovery

01:07:20 Spiritual Growth and Connection

01:17:35 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You 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-resources⁠

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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 Resilience

02:03 Stephen Baker: From AFL Star to Inspirational Speaker

07:58 Facing Personal Struggles: The Dark Side of Fame

12:03 The Impact of Grief and Depression

19:57 Finding Strength Through Fitness and Community

21:58 The Power of Gratitude and Resilience

26:00 Turning Points: A Journey from Darkness to Light

30:42 Breaking the Silence: Men's Mental Health

32:00 Building a Morning Routine for Success

39:07 Giving Back: Inspiring the Next Generation

42:04 Finding Motivation in Dark Times

You 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-resources⁠

Follow and connect with Ash on: 

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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 Journey

03:01 Navigating Personal Struggles and Professional Life

05:59 The Impact of Divorce on Identity

08:53 The Role of Work in Personal Crisis

11:53 Reflections on Loss and Healing

15:05 Understanding Financial Security and Relationships

18:00 The Path to Self-Discovery and Growth

26:42 The Turning Point: Divorce and Transformation

32:41 Loss and Identity: Selling the Dream Home

38:54 The Unraveling: Job Loss and Self-Reflection

46:51 Physical Transformation: The Journey of Weight Loss

56:15 Finding Purpose in the Middle: Navigating Life's Challenges

01:01:11 Embracing Life's Challenges

01:08:39 The Power of Community and Friendship

01:15:44 Finding Truth and Surrendering to Life

01:21:09 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You 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-resources⁠

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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 Smile

03:10 Beau's Journey: From Science to Healing

06:05 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Personal Growth

09:13 Navigating the 12-Step Fellowships

12:01 Exploring Codependency and Self-Worth

15:13 Understanding Trauma and Its Effects

18:03 The Role of Parenting in Emotional Development

21:03 Finding Balance in Parenting and Self-Care

24:12 The Journey of Financial Responsibility

26:59 Defining Codependency and Its Manifestations

32:05 Emotional Independence in Relationships

34:52 Choosing Yourself: The Journey of Separation

36:44 The Impact of Parenting on Future Generations

37:56 Exploring EMDR Therapy and Its Benefits

43:03 Redefining Truth in Healing

48:40 The Connection Between Trauma and Self-Sabotage

52:42 Developing a Personal Higher Power

57:17 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You 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-resources⁠

Follow and connect with Ash on: 

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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 Journey

03:09 Navigating Life Changes and Personal Growth

06:04 Daily Routines and Self-Care Practices

09:11 The Impact of Sobriety on Relationships

12:06 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Struggles of Alcoholism

14:56 The Journey to Sobriety: Overcoming Addiction

17:50 The Challenge of Moderation and Alcohol Dependency

29:42 The Struggle with Moderation

32:00 The Decision to Embrace Sobriety

34:40 Breaking Free from Alcohol's Grip

36:21 Tools for Overcoming Addiction

39:08 Sobriety as an Act of Self-Care

40:50 Navigating Relationships in Sobriety

43:40 Busting Myths About Sobriety

45:41 Communicating Your Sobriety Journey

48:17 Setting Boundaries for Self-Care

52:45 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You 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-resources⁠

Follow and connect with Ash on: 

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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 Living

02:58 Kristian's Journey into Yoga and Meditation

06:05 Transformation in India: Immersive Meditation Training

11:55 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth

17:56 The Struggles Behind the Smile: A Performer’s Story

24:10 Ego Death and Embracing a New Identity

30:10 The Healing Journey Through Yoga and Self-Acceptance

34:15 The Evolution of Teaching and Learning

39:10 Non-Striving in Practice

44:51 The Power of Stillness

49:21 Compassion Through Self-Understanding

53:16 Navigating Intimate Relationships

58:10 Balancing Material Needs and Spiritual Practices

You 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-resources⁠

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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 Journey

02:59 Daily Life and Self-Care Practices

06:04 Navigating Change and Transformation

08:59 The Impact of Relationships on Personal Growth

12:04 Understanding Victim Consciousness

14:46 Facing Fears and Making Bold Decisions

17:56 The Role of Shame in Personal Transformation

21:06 Choosing Your Highest Timeline

31:59 Navigating Grief and Emotional Healing

40:04 Empowerment Through Motherhood and Relationships

44:11 The Victim-Villain-Rescuer Dynamic

51:13 Recognizing Needs in Relationships

56:01 Personal Growth and Energetic Alignment

You 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-resources⁠

Follow and connect with Ash on: 

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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 Journey

04:35 Daily Life and Morning Routines

07:30 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Photo Story

12:18 The Impact of the 12 Steps

18:59 The Spiritual Awakening Through the Steps

24:09 Overcoming Resistance to a Higher Power

29:10 The Journey to Self-Discovery

33:14 Understanding the Enneagram and Addiction

37:13 The Nature of Addiction and Self-Soothing

39:56 The Concept of Being a 'Dry Drunk'

43:30 Navigating Recovery and Sharing Stories

47:41 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You 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-resources⁠

Follow and connect with Ash on: 

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