Behind The Smile with Ash Butterss

Ep 151. From the Streets of London to a Quiet Sober Life, with Damo H


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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 Ritual

00:51 Meet Damo H: A Journey Begins

02:57 Daily Life and Recovery Practices

05:59 The Role of Service in Recovery

08:47 Childhood and Family Dynamics

12:01 The First Drink: A Turning Point

14:55 Growing Up in London: The Streets and Gangs

18:11 The Impact of Alcoholism on Relationships

20:50 Moving to Australia: New Beginnings

24:09 Career and Alcoholism: A Fragile Balance

27:08 Rehab and the Road to Sobriety

30:00 Family Tragedies and Resilience

32:04 Reflections on Sobriety and Happiness

36:24 The Slippery Slope of Addiction

39:54 The Return to Alcohol

46:11 Rock Bottoms and Revelations

50:40 A New Approach to Sobriety

01:01:30 Building a New Life in Sobriety

01:07:20 Non-Negotiables for a Happy Life


Follow and connect with Ash on: 

⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterss

Website⁠ www.ashbutterss.com


Upcoming Workshops:

The Letting Go Ritual: Breathwork, Yin, and Intention Setting for 2026

Tickets available here. 


A Return To You | One Day Retreat 

Sunday 22nd February, 2026

Tickets available here. 


Join Ash on retreat in 2026!

The Embodied Woman Retreat | Gold Coast | May 2026 

Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026


Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here!


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Behind The Smile with Ash ButterssBy Ashleigh Butterss

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