In this episode, Ash sits down with former pro surfer turned mental health trailblazer, Cooper Chapman, for a raw and inspiring conversation about purpose, mindset, and creating real change from the inside out.

After years chasing trophies and external success, Cooper realised the waves he truly needed to ride were the ones within. What followed was a powerful shift, one that led him to build The Good Human Factory and dedicate his life to helping others nurture their mental wellbeing.

Cooper opens up about what he’s learned along the way, from the quiet power of small daily habits to the freedom that comes when we stop seeking validation outside ourselves. He shares the story behind the 1% Good Club, a global movement encouraging people to spend just 14 minutes a day on gratitude, mindfulness, and self-reflection, because big change always starts small.

Together, Ash and Cooper explore the importance of community, balance, and practical self-care routines that actually stick. Cooper’s message is simple yet profound: mental health isn’t a destination, it’s a daily practice of showing up with compassion, curiosity, and consistency.

Key highlights include:

• Cooper's journey from pro surfer to mental health advocate.
• The importance of small, consistent actions for mental health.
• The 1% Good Club encourages daily mental health practices.
• External validation can impact mental wellbeing.
• Community support enhances accountability in mental health.
• Mindfulness and gratitude are key practices for mental health.
• Mental health is a continuous journey, not a destination.
• Finding balance in life is essential for wellbeing.
• Nature and connection to the earth are vital for mental health.
• It's okay to take a break and prioritise self-care.

Episode chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Retreat and Guest

00:45 Cooper Chapman's Journey and Book Launch

01:54 The Impact of External Validation

06:40 Navigating Long-Distance Relationships

11:27 Finding Balance in Life and Work

13:32 Hiding Behind a Smile: Cooper's Struggles

19:32 Shifting Mindsets and Mental Health Advocacy

26:27 The Birth of the Good Human Factory

33:55 The 1% Good Club: A Community for Mental Health

38:52 Daily Practices for Mental Wellbeing

51:41 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

You can connect with Cooper using the links below:

Instagram - @cooperchapman + @thegoodhumanfactory

Website - thegoodhumanfactory.com

1% Good Club Book - Buy Here!

Follow and connect with Ash on:

⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterss

Website⁠ www.ashbutterss.com

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!

If you need support with your mental health, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. Or if you'd prefer to text lifeline, you can reach a support team member on 0477 13 11 14.