Behind The Smile with Ash Butterss

• Ep 131. The Ego Collapse: How Losing Millions Gifted Him a New Perspective, with Kyle Stagoll

  In this episode, Ash is joined by Kyle Stagoll, a crypto trader whose world came crashing down overnight with the collapse of FTX, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in history. What started as a story of rapid success turned into a sobering fall, as Kyle faced the unthinkable: losing everything he’d built.Kyle speaks with raw honesty about the emotional aftermath of that loss, the depression, the isolation, and the shame that followed. He opens up about how childhood wounds shaped his drive for external success, and how hitting rock bottom forced him to confront the patterns of self-sabotage that had quietly followed him for years.But Kyle’s story doesn’t end in the wreckage. Through deep self-reflection and a commitment to personal growth, he began the slow, steady climb back, this time with a different compass. He shares how mindset work, neuroplasticity, and a redefinition of success helped him rebuild a life grounded in purpose, presence, and freedom.This is a powerful conversation about loss, resilience, and the healing that happens when we stop performing and start showing up as our true selves.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Behind the Smile03:04 Kyle's Journey: From Success to Setback05:58 Life After Loss: Coping with Depression08:57 The Impact of FTX: A Financial Catastrophe11:57 Navigating the Aftermath: Rebuilding Life15:07 Reflections on Resilience and Growth25:07 From Rock Bottom to Resilience31:30 Childhood Influences and Family Dynamics35:46 Overcoming Self-Sabotage in Trading39:59 The Power of Mindset and Neuroplasticity43:17 Redefining Success and Self-Worth47:14 The Importance of Freedom and Giving Back51:40 Lessons Learned from Financial LossesYou can connect with Kyle through Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website ⁠https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resources⁠Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠TikTok ⁠Website⁠ 

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• Ep 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. The conversation explores the complexities of trauma, the healing process, and the role of movement and breath in supporting mental health.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Rachel Pfeiffer02:27 Daily Life and Finding Fun06:43 Hiding Behind a Smile: A Personal Story14:58 The Impact of Trauma and Healing25:59 The Journey to Becoming a Psychotherapist30:54 Understanding Psychotherapy vs. Psychology35:10 The Journey to Becoming a Yoga Teacher39:30 Integrating Yoga and Psychotherapy44:01 Navigating Relationships in Therapy49:00 Embracing the Messiness of Life57:02 Non-Negotiables for Authentic LivingYou can connect with Rachel through her website or Instagram here. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website ⁠https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resources⁠Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠TikTok ⁠Website⁠ 

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• Ep 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.This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the impact of compassion, and the radical power of choosing to break the cycle.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Peter's Journey02:55 Life as a Criminal's Son05:48 The Impact of Addiction08:57 Childhood Memories and Trauma12:11 The Search for Normalcy14:56 The Role of Family Dynamics17:59 Early Signs of Criminal Influence21:06 Coping Mechanisms and Resilience24:10 Reflections on Intuition and Trust26:54 The Absence of a Mother29:55 Life in State Care33:08 Turning Adversity into Motivation36:03 Navigating Early Life Challenges39:15 Lessons in Leadership and Kindness42:11 A Pivotal Decision at 1346:56 The Impact of Family and Routine51:17 Fueling the Fire for Success52:50 The Journey of Fostering54:56 The Power of Lived Experience55:43 The Birth of a Book01:00:35 Bravery and Authenticity in Life ChoicesYou can visit Pete’s website here.Or purchase the book here.To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website ⁠https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resources⁠Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠TikTok ⁠⁠Facebook Website⁠ 

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• Ep 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.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Authenticity and Recovery02:55 Sheridan's Journey in Hairdressing and Sobriety06:00 The Role of Breathwork in Recovery09:02 Parenting and Relationships in Recovery11:58 Living Life Beyond Recovery14:56 Judgment and Community in Recovery17:57 The Photo: Hiding Behind a Smile22:16 Navigating Personal Transformation23:30 The Challenge of Authenticity24:47 Faking It in Client Services25:50 Compartmentalizing Emotions27:18 Reflections on Past Struggles30:32 The Journey of Recovery32:51 Understanding Rock Bottom35:13 Embracing Sensitivity as Strength36:26 Leadership and Team Dynamics39:03 Creating Meaningful Client Experiences40:34 The Power of Passion and Purpose42:34 The Role of Substance in Pain Management44:50 The Drive for Continuous Growth50:19 The Power of Unconditional Love52:11 Facing Fears and Embracing Change54:42 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Hard Work56:15 Learning from Failure and Resilience01:01:09 Navigating Relationships in Recovery01:07:20 Spiritual Growth and Connection01:17:35 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling LifeYou can connect with Sheridan through her Instagram or her Salon Mamawest. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website ⁠https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resources⁠Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠TikTok ⁠Website⁠ 

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• Ep 127. GRIT Over Glory: Former AFL Star Steven Baker on Grief, Identity & Redemption

  In this raw and inspiring conversation, Ash is joined by former AFL player Steven Baker who opens up about his story including life after football, hitting rock bottom and turning his life around. After being unexpectedly cut from his AFL career, Steven spiraled into grief, substance abuse, and deep depression, especially following the death of his father. He opens up about how a life of discipline and team camaraderie gave way to escapism, endless partying, and identity loss.Ash and Steven explore the emotional aftermath of elite sport, the stigma around men’s mental health, and what finally helped Steven turn things around. From creating a GRIT model for schools, to competitive boxing, to daily gratitude and appreciation practices.Steven shares a powerful message of mental resilience, vulnerability, and hope.The episode highlights are:00:00 Introduction to Authenticity and Resilience02:03 Stephen Baker: From AFL Star to Inspirational Speaker07:58 Facing Personal Struggles: The Dark Side of Fame12:03 The Impact of Grief and Depression19:57 Finding Strength Through Fitness and Community21:58 The Power of Gratitude and Resilience26:00 Turning Points: A Journey from Darkness to Light30:42 Breaking the Silence: Men's Mental Health32:00 Building a Morning Routine for Success39:07 Giving Back: Inspiring the Next Generation42:04 Finding Motivation in Dark TimesYou can connect with Steven on his Instagram here. To access your free guided meditations, head to the Freebie Page on Ash’s website ⁠https://www.ashbutterss.com/free-resources⁠Follow and connect with Ash on: ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠TikTok ⁠⁠Facebook Website⁠

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