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This episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast centers on the importance of sharing personal experiences—both the good and the difficult—to help others. Ashley reflects on her own journey through various life challenges, including career changes, health struggles, grief, motherhood, and burnout. She emphasizes that lived experiences, rather than textbook knowledge, are what truly enable her to support and mentor others in business, wellness, and life.

Ashley discusses the transformative power of community, highlighting how genuine connection often comes from showing up for others, even when it’s inconvenient. She shares deeply personal stories of loss, including the death of her child, grandfather, and a close friend, and how these experiences have shaped her perspective and strengthened her family.

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the Fit Stock fundraiser, an initiative by the Fit Collective Foundation to support causes like  the Walker Family Cancer Center. Ashley describes the community’s efforts in raising substantial funds through challenging events, and the pride she feels in fostering a culture of giving and support.

The episode closes with encouragement for listeners to share their own stories, no matter how big or small, as these can have a meaningful impact on others. Ashley expresses gratitude for her audience and reaffirms her purpose in using her platform to support and connect with others.

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This episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast explores the joys and challenges of traveling both with and without children. Ashley shares personal stories from family trips to Ireland, Disney, the Bahamas, Phoenix, the Dominican Republic, and more, highlighting the chaos, exhaustion, and unexpected hurdles that come with traveling as parents—such as dealing with sick kids, logistical nightmares, and cultural differences.

Despite the difficulties, Ashley emphasizes the value of creating memories, exposing children to new experiences, and building family bonds. She also discusses the importance of traveling as a couple, without kids, to reconnect and nurture the relationship. The episode encourages parents to embrace both types of travel—family adventures and adult-only getaways—without guilt, as both are meaningful and rewarding in different ways.

Ashley concludes by urging parents to take the trip, even if it’s hard or imperfect, because the memories and growth are worth far more than material things. The episode is a heartfelt, humorous, and honest reflection on parenting, partnership, and the transformative power of travel.

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In this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley discusses her deep concerns and experiences concerning the education system as a parent. She shares her journey of sending her children to an in-home daycare and a Montessori school, highlighting the positives and challenges. As her children grow older, she and her husband are grappling with decisions about future schooling, considering options like public, Catholic, and private schools, as well as homeschooling. Ashley emphasizes the importance of aligning school environments with family values, protecting children's innocence, and avoiding undue ideological influences. She candidly discusses the difficulties of modern parenting in a technology-driven world and their contemplation of homeschooling to preserve their children's formative years. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on parenting, societal influences, and making difficult educational choices.

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In this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley celebrates the 12th anniversary of Fit Collective, reflecting on its growth from a small gym to its current thriving state. She recounts the challenges, triumphs, and the sense of community that has been built over the years. Despite initial chaos and doubts, Fit Collective has become a place of connection, healing, and celebration for many. Ashley emphasizes the importance of having quality, community-focused members and highlights various successful programs, including kids' camps, prime timers, and postpartum programs. She expresses gratitude towards members, staff, and her family, acknowledging their contributions to the gym's journey. The episode ends with excitement for the upcoming celebrations and optimism for the future.

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In this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, host Ashley celebrates her husband's birthday and discusses the important theme of being useful, inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger's book 'Be Useful.' She highlights the distinction between being busy and being truly useful, sharing personal anecdotes and emphasizing the importance of contributing to family, community, and work. She aims to raise her children to be aware and proactive by role-modeling helpful behaviors. The episode stresses the importance of small, meaningful actions and contributing without seeking recognition. Ashley also reflects on how maintaining a busy but purposeful life can foster self-respect, pride, and happiness.

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In the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley discusses the common struggle of reconciling fitness goals with the reality of one's current physical and life circumstances. Addressing a popular listener request, Ashley shares insights on how unrealistic expectations can affect one's mental and physical health. She shares personal anecdotes of her competitive athletic background and the significant changes she has had to accept as her life evolved. She emphasizes the importance of realistic goal-setting, taking into account factors like age, previous injuries, lifestyle, responsibilities, and stress. Ashley also highlights the importance of individual progress, the pitfalls of comparison, and the need to adapt goals to one's current season of life. She advises listeners to find a balance between ambition and reality to achieve sustainable progress. The episode includes multiple examples of her coaching experiences at Fit Collective, illustrating how she helps clients develop achievable fitness plans tailored to their unique situations.

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In this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley discusses the importance of diversifying one's skills and interests, especially in the context of the rapidly evolving job market influenced by COVID-19 and advancements in AI. She recounts her own varied career experiences, from working in the service industry to owning a gym and starting new business ventures with her husband. Ashley emphasizes the value of exploring multiple avenues to create financial stability, build networks, and discover new passions. She also talks about the support from her husband and the flexibility that allows them to take risks and explore new opportunities. The episode encourages listeners to try different things, invest in self-education, and build a repertoire of skills to adapt to unexpected changes in their careers and lives.

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In this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley discusses the challenges of managing relationships between clients, colleagues, and friends in the wellness and fitness industry. She shares personal experiences of blurred lines, overextending herself, and the importance of setting boundaries to protect her personal and professional well-being. Ashley emphasizes the necessity of maintaining a balance between genuine connections and professional boundaries, as well as the emotional weight that comes with leadership and entrepreneurship. The episode aims to offer insights for both business owners and clients on respecting mutual boundaries and maintaining healthy professional relationships.

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In this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley starts by sharing a humorous yet touching moment with her daughter that sets the tone for a discussion on never feeling like one's efforts are enough. She delves into her personal struggles with feeling inadequate as a business owner and mother, exacerbated by external pressures and societal expectations. Candidly sharing a pivotal therapy session with her father, Ashley unpacks the deep-rooted issues stemming from her attempts to win his approval. She emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, the dangers of constant comparison via social media, and the wisdom in appreciating one's current life achievements. Ashley advises listeners to seek support through open conversations and therapy to break the cycle of self-doubt and burnout. The episode concludes with actionable advice on balancing priorities and recognizing personal growth.

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In this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley dives into the challenging and often unspoken topic of adult friendships. She discusses the complexities that come with maintaining friendships as adults, including feelings of confusion and frustration. Ashley emphasizes that it's normal for some friendships to be seasonal and that outgrowing a friendship doesn't make anyone a bad person. She highlights the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and recognizing when a friendship no longer serves us. Ashley also explores the impact of different life stages, varying expectations, and the importance of love languages in friendships. She encourages listeners to seek friendships that add value and joy to their lives rather than drain them.