In this inspiring episode, Ash sits down with TEDx speaker and award-winning author Melo Calarco—a man who has quite literally cycled to the edges of the world in search of meaning, resilience, and himself. Over 30,000 kilometres across five continents, Melo has learned that the most transformative journey is always the one within.

He shares how meditation and mindfulness became the quiet anchors behind his extraordinary adventures, and how facing grief, uncertainty, and physical limits on the road ultimately deepened his understanding of what it means to truly live. Together, Ash and Melo explore the tension between ambition and contentment, and what it looks like to pursue big goals without losing yourself in the chase.

Drawing on Eastern philosophies and real-life transformations he has witnessed through his coaching work, Melo offers grounded, practical tools for bringing more presence, flexibility, and fun into everyday life. The conversation is a reminder that growth doesn't always look like pushing harder—sometimes it looks like slowing down, checking in with your values, and choosing joy as a practice. Melo's story is equal parts adventure and wisdom, and a powerful invitation to live more fully, freely, and in alignment with what matters most.

Episode chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Melo Carlaco

01:41 A Day in the Life of Melo

05:54 The Importance of Fun and Play

06:55 Hiding Behind a Smile: Personal Stories

10:02 Navigating Grief and Adversity

13:04 The Journey of a Lifetime: Cycling Around the Globe

17:47 The Seeds of Meditation

20:25 Cultivating the Pause: Reaction vs. Response

24:31 Life After Adventure: What Now?

27:37 The Aftermath of Achievements: TEDx Experience

29:26 Setting Hard Goals for Personal Growth

32:06 The Balance of Flexibility and Discipline

34:08 Integrating Eastern Philosophies into Coaching

39:48 Real-Life Transformations through Mindfulness

44:01 The Importance of Presence in Daily Life

46:40 Practical Tools for Mindfulness and Presence

50:45 Living by Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life

Connect with Melo below:

BOOK: BEATING BURNOUT FINDING BALANCE FREE CHAPTER

MELO's TEDx TALK

FREE MEDITATIONS on INSIGHT TIMER 

STAY CONNECTED on MELO's LINKED IN

Follow and connect with Ash on: 

⁠Instagram⁠ @ashbutterss

TikTok @behindthesmilewithashb

Website⁠ www.ashbutterss.com

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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