In this powerful episode, Ash sits down with Katharine McLean, a holistic counselor, trauma-informed mentor, and founder of The Light Becomes Her. With over 23 years of experience guiding others through healing, Katharine shares her deeply personal journey through addiction, recovery, and inner transformation.

After decades of high-functioning alcohol use and hidden drug addiction, Katharine hit rock bottom while leading mental health teams by day and battling inner chaos by night. 

In this conversation, Ash and Katharine dive into the root causes of addiction, childhood trauma, and the disconnection from self that fuels destructive behaviors. Katharine opens up about how she used inner child work, subconscious reprogramming, and spiritual practices to rebuild her identity from the inside out.

This is an intimate and enlightening conversation about healing the nervous system, rewiring belief systems, and stepping into a life of authenticity, service, and grace. If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible beyond addiction, this episode will leave you inspired.

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Introduction to Katharine McLean

03:05 Katharine's Daily Life and Practices

05:54 Overcoming Barriers to Ecstatic Dance

08:59 Hiding Behind a Smile: Katharine's Photo Story

14:55 The Reality of Addiction: Functioning Alcoholism

20:00 Childhood Experiences and Their Impact

28:02 Seeking Approval and Relationship Patterns

31:00 The Role of Inner Child Work in Healing

38:16 The Illusion of Quick Fixes

41:46 Meditation as a Tool for Transformation

45:46 The Breaking Point: A Journey to Sobriety

52:30 From Recovery to Empowerment: Building a Business

56:29 Emotional Regulation: The Mind-Body Connection

01:01:35 Navigating Business and Personal Growth

01:06:36 The Power of Choice in Recovery

You can connect with Katharine McLean on her Instagram or through her website. 

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 deeply personal episode, Ash sits down with her dad, Rod Butterss, a seasoned entrepreneur, former AFL club president, and long-time member of the recovery community.

Together, they reflect on life in recovery, the reality of relapse, cultivating self-awareness, and what it means to truly reinvent yourself at any stage of life.

Rod opens up about his recent relapse after more than a decade of sobriety and the humility and courage it took to come back and start again. With honesty and warmth, he shares stories from his life, including his busy childhood in a household of 12, navigating trauma, addiction, enormous success, financial loss, and rebuilding with purpose.

Ash and Rod explore the emotional landscape of identity, love, intimacy, and grief, and how Rod is using this chapter of his life to reflect, heal, and deepen his spiritual practices. They also discuss his ambitious new venture in biotechnology and why he's more committed than ever to living in alignment and being of service.

This is a story about second chances, self-reflection, and the power of choosing to grow through what you go through.

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Introduction to Transformation and Recovery

02:59 The Importance of Family Bonds

05:49 Navigating Recovery and Self-Education

08:56 Public Perception vs. Personal Struggles

11:59 The Role of Vulnerability in Recovery

15:01 Understanding Relapse and Its Impact

18:06 Exploring Childhood Trauma and Relationships

20:54 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance

23:56 The Power of Intuition and Energy

26:50 Grief, Masculinity, and Emotional Expression

31:07 Navigating Grief and Coping Strategies

34:30 Resilience and Life's Unexpected Turns

39:20 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Generosity

45:32 Taking Steps Towards Change and Recovery

49:03 Understanding Choices and Personal Growth

55:51 Facing Addiction and Seeking Help

You can connect with Rod Butterss on his Linkedin.

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 latest episode, Ash sits down with beauty corporate executive and fitness instructor Niki Kiskiras. Beyond her career achievements, Niki shares her deeply personal journey of self-discovery, overcoming societal expectations, and reclaiming her independence after ending her marriage in her late 20s.

Coming from a traditional Greek-Australian background, Niki opens up about the immense shame and fear she faced when making the decision to leave her marriage, a life path she had followed because it was what was “expected.” She reflects on the pressure to present a perfect life while internally feeling lost, the guilt of disappointing her family, and the reality of choosing herself despite cultural norms and external judgment.

Ash and Niki explore how fitness became a powerful tool for self-liberation, how her relationships evolved post-divorce, and why she ultimately stepped into a life of authenticity, personal growth, and fearless reinvention. They also discuss Nikki’s decision to freeze her eggs as an act of self-empowerment, navigating grief in unexpected moments, and what it means to truly invest in oneself.

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Introduction to Transformation and Authenticity

02:52 Niki's Journey: From Corporate to Fitness Instructor

06:05 The Impact of Family and Cultural Background

08:57 Navigating Life's Challenges and Personal Growth

12:08 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Wedding Photo Story

14:57 The Decision to Separate: Fear and Shame

17:54 Finding Authenticity and Purpose

21:02 The Role of Fitness in Personal Transformation

23:45 Living Consciously: The Relationship with Alcohol

31:05 Navigating Personal Growth and Friendships

36:01 The Journey of Egg Freezing

42:30 Understanding Relationship Needs

52:24 The Reality Behind Social Media

57:31 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You can connect with Niki Kiskiras on her fitness page Instagram.

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 sits down with Alcohol and Midlife Coach, Belinda Stark, who shows that it’s never too late to transform your life after making her own significant changes in her mid-50s. After running a successful fashion business for over a decade, Belinda made the bold decision to change careers, inspired by her own journey of overcoming depression, breast cancer, divorce, and a complex relationship with alcohol.

Belinda shares her personal struggles, including postnatal depression and hospitalisation after the birth of her second son, the moment she realised alcohol was no longer serving her, and how she finally found the courage to step into sobriety. She reflects on the tools that helped her along the way, the challenges of reprogramming deep-seated beliefs, and the incredible shifts she has experienced in her relationships, self-esteem, and overall happiness.

Ash and Belinda also discuss the importance of self-compassion, navigating midlife reinvention, and why it’s never too late to make a change.

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Introduction to Transformation and Resilience

02:39 Belinda Stark: A Journey of Courage

08:28 Hiding Behind the Smile: The Struggles Within

18:02 Childhood Influences and Early Habits

22:50 The Turning Point: Acknowledging Alcoholism

26:36 Facing Breast Cancer: A Life-Altering Diagnosis

30:09 Overcoming Health Challenges

33:08 The Role of Mindset in Recovery

35:16 The Journey to Sobriety Begins

39:39 Tapering vs. Cold Turkey: Finding What Works

40:59 Navigating Social Situations Sober

47:27 Tools for Sustaining Sobriety

49:02 Transforming Relationships Through Sobriety

53:44 Empowering Change in Midlife

55:53 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You can connect with Belinda Stark on Instagram or through her website. 

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 latest episode, Ash has a deep and powerful conversation with Ryan Trainor, exploring his transformative journey from a successful entrepreneur to a more authentic and balanced human.

They discuss the importance of curiosity, connection, and the need to let go of control in life. Ryan shares his experiences with mental health, the pressures of success, and the impact of childhood on his quest for relevance. The conversation also touches on the use of psychedelics for personal growth and the empowerment that comes from taking responsibility for your relationships and experiences.

Ash and Ryan explore the constructs of reality, the importance of community and connection, and the journey of personal growth through challenges. They discuss the need for open conversations, the impact of facing rock bottom, and the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness.

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Introduction to Transformation and Authenticity

01:47 Ryan Treanor's Entrepreneurial Journey and Wake-Up Call

03:06 Curiosity and Connection in Life

09:13 Letting Go of Control and Embracing Faith

11:24 Hiding Behind a Smile: The Cost of Success

18:15 Childhood Influences and the Quest for Relevance

24:39 Empowerment Through Responsibility and Relationships

27:19 Exploring Psychedelics and Personal Growth

32:04 The Constructs of Reality

34:06 Defining Our Avatars

36:25 The Need for Connection

37:51 Navigating Community and Authenticity

40:13 The Power of Open Conversations

44:20 Facing Rock Bottom

49:32 Meditation and Mindfulness

53:25 Shifting Desires and Values

57:16 Creating Meaningful Memories

01:00:14 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You can connect with Ryan Trainor on Instagram or LinkedIn.

Listen to Ash and her dad’s episode on Trainable here.

To access your⁠⁠⁠ free guided meditations⁠⁠⁠, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website

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In this episode, Ash welcomes back a friend of the show, Kath Elliott, an alcohol mindset coach now entering her sixth year of sobriety. Kath returns to share openly about her recent experience of navigating divorce in sobriety. 

Kath discusses the fears that held her back, and how she ultimately made the decision to choose herself. Ash and Kath go on to discuss the emotional rollercoaster of grief, self-discovery, and learning to sit with discomfort, and how Kath found clarity through sobriety. 

The ladies also explore dating sober, redefining wealth beyond finances, and the power of stepping into life’s unknowns with courage. If you’ve ever questioned whether staying is harder than leaving, or if you’re afraid of what’s on the other side of a massive life transition—this episode is for you.

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Welcome Back: A Familiar Face

03:08 Navigating Life Changes: Grief and Divorce

05:55 The Decision to Separate: A Journey of Intuition

08:49 The Impact of Sobriety on Relationships

11:57 Children and Separation: A Delicate Balance

14:52 Redefining Success: Lessons from Marriage

18:02 Embracing the Unknown: The Power of Self-Love

20:52 Facing Fears: Financial and Emotional Challenges

24:09 The Journey of Dating Sober

26:54 Wealth Beyond Money: Redefining Abundance

30:06 Looking Ahead: Love and New Beginnings

33:08 Non-Negotiables for an Authentic Life

You can connect with Kath Elliot on Instagram or through her website.

To access your⁠⁠ free guided meditations⁠⁠, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website

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In this episode of Behind the Smile, Ash is joined by former reality TV star Davey Lloyd, who you might recognise from shows including The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise. Now a builder living in Sydney, Davey opens up about his struggles with addiction which took him to the brink of death after overdosing in 2023. 

In this candid conversation, Davey shares his harrowing journey through addiction, a life-threatening seizure, and the path he is now on in recovery. He reflects on the moments that led to his near-death experience, the emotional turmoil that followed, and the transformative power of rehabilitation. Davey discusses the importance of self-discovery, the challenges of maintaining sobriety, and his commitment to helping others facing similar struggles. 

This interview is as raw and unfiltered as it gets. 

The episode highlights include:

03:02 Valentine's Day Reflections and Sobriety

06:04 Daily Life and Struggles with Motivation

08:57 Understanding Addiction and Mental Health

11:58 The Impact of Childhood on Adult Behavior

14:49 The Burden of Shame and Guilt

18:05 Living Amends and Personal Growth

21:02 The Slow Process of Recovery

23:46 Learning to Connect Authentically

27:09 The Reality of Hair Loss and Substance Abuse

28:58 The Overdose Experience and Its Aftermath

32:31 The Turning Point: A Life-Altering Experience

39:06 Confronting Addiction: The Aftermath of a Seizure

48:35 Rehabilitation: A Journey of Self-Discovery

55:08 Finding Balance: Life After Rehab

01:01:15 Looking Ahead: Writing a Memoir and Advocacy

You can connect with Davey Lloyd on Instagram here. 

To access your⁠ free guided meditations⁠, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website

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In this special solo episode of Behind the Smile, Ash Butterss marks a huge milestone—five years of sobriety. Reflecting on her journey from rock bottom to a life beyond her wildest dreams, Ash shares the raw truth about what it really takes to break free from addiction and step into a life of clarity, peace, and purpose.

From walking into rehab convinced she’d learn to “drink like a lady” to realising she needed to create an entirely new life, Ash opens up about the lessons, struggles, and profound shifts that have shaped her over the last five years. She talks about overcoming shame, rebuilding self-trust, and learning to surrender to something bigger than herself.

If you’re navigating your own transformation, whether in sobriety or any other area of life, this episode is filled with wisdom, hope, and a powerful reminder that real change happens one small step at a time.

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Celebrating Five Years of Sobriety

02:55 Reflecting on the Journey to Recovery

06:10 The Transformation of Life Post-Rehab

09:00 Understanding the Roots of Addiction

11:55 The Role of Self-Discovery in Sobriety

15:11 Building a New Life After Addiction

17:57 The Importance of Community and Support

20:55 Facing Challenges in Early Sobriety

23:45 The Shift in Perspective on Alcohol

26:48 Embracing Change and Growth

30:03 The Power of Small Steps in Recovery

32:57 Finding Freedom in Sobriety

36:12 A Message of Hope and Encouragement

The episode I referenced is called: Ep 61. Impulsivity, genetics and the science of addiction with Aaron Thomas

To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website.

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In the latest episode of Behind the Smile, host Ash speaks with Dean Beattie, a longevity coach who’s overcome his own struggles with addiction. Having been sober for over 20+ years now, Dean shares candidly about the challenges he’s faced in recovery including healing his relationship with his family, overcoming financial fears and forming healthy intimate relationships. 

He reflects on the role of validation in his life and how he found the strength to get sober at the age of 28, ultimately transforming his life through the 12-step program and mindfulness practices. Dean also discusses the impact of grief, the role of therapy, and the significance of support systems for men. He also highlights the need for authentic connections and the benefits of holistic practices like yoga. 

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Behind the Smile: Introduction to Authenticity

05:05 Dean's Journey: From Addiction to Recovery

10:09 The Impact of Childhood on Addiction

14:52 The Role of Validation and Intimacy in Addiction

20:05 The Turning Point: Getting Sober at 28

25:08 The Transformation: Life After Recovery

29:28 Taking Ownership and Finding Peace

31:17 Navigating Grief and Loss

34:33 The Role of Therapy and Healing Modalities

37:15 Confronting Temptations and Living Authentically

40:30Making Amends and Family Dynamics

43:45 Men's Mental Health and Support Systems

46:34The Impact of Role Models on Men

48:26 Yoga: A Path to Connection and Healing

52:36 The Men's Reboot Program: A Holistic Approach

You can connect with  Dean Beattie on Instagram here or through his website here.

To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website

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In this week’s episode, Ash sits down with Jodi Clark, a business mentor and alcohol-free coach, to discuss her journey towards sobriety and self-discovery.

Jodi shares how it was actually a 100-day weight-loss challenge that motivated her to go alcohol free, yet after seeing the positive impact it had on her mental health and relationships, she decided to stay sober for good. In this conversation, Jodi shares her transformative journey towards sobriety, discussing the profound impact it has had on her self-esteem, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Along her journey, Jodi has built a community supporting other women to go alcohol free and reflects openly on the challenges of balancing work and family life while pursuing her passion for helping others. Jodi also highlights the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in her journey, encouraging listeners to embrace their own paths to wellness.

The episode highlights are:

00:00 Introduction to Jodie Clark and Her Journey

02:56 Daily Life and Finding Joy in Work

06:03 Setting Intentions for the New Year

08:58 Hiding Behind a Smile: Jodie's Photo Reflection

11:59 The Impact of Alcohol on Jodie's Life

15:02 The Turning Point: A Hundred Day Challenge

17:57 The Journey to Sobriety and Self-Discovery

26:58 Transformative Journey: The Impact of Sobriety

33:12 Building Self-Esteem Through Sobriety

39:04 Creating a Supportive Community: SoberFlourish

45:05 Navigating Life's Challenges: Balancing Work and Family

51:02 Embracing Vulnerability: Lessons from the Journey

You can connect with Jodi Clark onInstagram here. Or on her Sober Flourishwebsite here.

To access your free guided meditations, head to theFreebie Page on Ash’s website.

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