New Episodes Released Each Monday
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New Episodes Released Each Monday ✨
“I truly believe that when we recover loudly, no one need suffer in silence.”
- Ash Butterss
Join Ash each week as she brings you powerful stories of adversity, hope and transformation.
Whether it’s an epic interview or one of Ash’s in demand solo episodes, each recording delivers you tools and insights to unlock your full potential and create a life that excites you.
If you’re hungry to learn and expand your mind then you’re in the right place.
This podcast is your one-stop shop for powerful strategies, raw vulnerability and the shared wisdom of those who’ve walked the path themselves.
About Behind The Smile
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About Behind The Smile ✨
I created Behind The Smile with Ash Butterss because I’m on a mission to remove the stigma around mental health, trauma and addiction.
From 2018 – 2020, I was drinking every day, stuck in a cycle of addiction yet from the outside looking in my life looked “normal.” I now know, I fell into the category of being a “high-functioning alcoholic” however, at the time, I thought I just needed to learn how to control my drinking.
I was also experiencing poor mental health and debilitating panic attacks, which I was later medicated for, but I didn’t stop drinking and so the anxiety raged on.
During this time, I didn’t know where to turn to. I knew there were programs such as AA, but I didn’t think I qualified because I didn’t think I was an alcoholic. I didn’t look like the “typical” alcoholic, and I hadn’t lost my job or my marriage, so I was at a loss. Nowhere could I find another person who looked and sounded like me, who was going through a similar experience and talking about it.
When I got sober in 2020, I knew I needed to change this. I had a deep calling to start a conversation around mental health and addiction so that people could find identification in hearing people’s stories.
We live in a society that demands perfectionism and often people are afraid to speak honestly and openly about their struggles. Yet the only way this stigma can be removed is by having the conversation!
I hope these stories offer education and comfort for anyone experiencing difficulties today. Know that you’re not alone.
Ash xo
Episode Show Notes
Take a trip through the latest episode show notes below
Episode 130. Burnout, Betrayal & Healing Through the Body, with Psychotherapist Rachel Pfeiffer
In this episode, Ash speaks with Rachel Pfeiffer, a psychotherapist and yoga teacher, who shares her journey of healing from trauma, the importance of self-care, and the intersection of psychotherapy and yoga. Rachel opens up about a traumatic time in her life when her identity was not only stolen but exploited, resulting in a landmark court case and subsequent sentencing. She also shares her insights and experiences with burnout, the significance of relationships, and how she continues to show up authentically.
Episode 129. The Son of a Bank Robber Who Chose a Different Path, with Peter Norris
In this episode, Ash is joined by author Peter Norris, a CEO, world-class athlete and the son of one of Australia’s most notorious bank robbers.
Peter’s early years were shaped by instability, violence, and addiction, but what unfolds in this conversation is not just a story of survival, it’s one of profound transformation.
Peter opens up about the pivotal moments that changed the trajectory of his life: the unlikely mentors who showed him kindness, the brave choices that led him away from generational trauma, and the deep belief that no matter where you come from, you can choose a different path.
Now a powerful leader and passionate advocate for vulnerable children, Peter shares how fostering has helped him heal parts of his own past, and how writing his memoir became a cathartic and courageous act of service.
Episode 128. Sobriety, Spirit & Showing Up Fully: Sheridan Rose Shaw on Leading with Heart
In this heartfelt episode, Ash is joined by Sheridan Rose Shaw, an award-winning creative director celebrated for her work in the hairdressing industry. She shares her powerful journey of recovery, identity, and self-acceptance.
Sheridan speaks openly about her path to sobriety, the transformative impact of breathwork, and the complex reality of parenting while navigating her own healing.
Together, Ash and Sheridan explore what it means to live a life beyond just sobriety. They discuss how to navigate recovery while living a big full life, showing up authentically and the courage it takes to lead with vulnerability and purpose.
Sheridan also opens up about the struggles she faced getting clean in her early 20s, and the reason why she continues to put in the work today, never taking her recovery for granted.
From honesty and spiritual growth, to creating meaningful experiences for others and embracing opportunities with an open heart. This is a raw and empowering conversation about resilience, passion, and the beauty of coming home to yourself.