The Ashley Mathewson Podcast

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley discusses her growing frustration and exhaustion with the performative nature of social media. She shares her experiences of feeling pressured to maintain an online presence for her business and personal life, despite finding the environment cringeworthy and inauthentic. Ashley reflects on the shift from genuine human connection to staged performances that seek validation and attention. She emphasizes the need to post less frequently and more authentically, focusing on content that is helpful, educational, or joyful. Ultimately, Ashley expresses a desire to connect with people through more genuine means and to simplify her online presence.

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley delves into practical strategies for parents and business people to better manage their time. She emphasizes the importance of using lists, time blocking, and the 'Do Not Disturb' function on phones to enhance productivity. Ashley shares her personal experience of restructuring her to-do lists to prevent overwhelm, advice on using digital and paper planners, and how breaking tasks into realistic chunks can help achieve goals more effectively. Additionally, she highlights how minimizing phone distractions can significantly improve focus and productivity, allowing more time for important activities and relationships. The episode aims to help listeners gain control over their time and reduce the stress of daily multitasking.

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley discusses the concept that everything in life is a test. She emphasizes the importance of how we respond to challenges, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to play the victim. She underscores the need to take responsibility for our reactions, sharing personal anecdotes about overcoming difficult situations. Ashley also talks about teaching her son to distinguish between big and small problems and the significance of showing up for others despite personal hardships. Ultimately, she advocates for resilience and intentionality in addressing life's tests.

Send a textOn this episode, Ashley Mathewson discusses their journey of child loss, during their second pregnancy with their daughter, Finley. From finding out the genetic disorder, to the process and dealing with grief and choosing to try again. 

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley delves into the topic of honest communication in friendships. She emphasizes the value of being able to both give and receive honest feedback without resorting to passive-aggressive behavior or emotional immaturity. Ashley discusses the common challenges people face when confronted with the truth, including the initial defensive reaction and the importance of taking a moment to reflect on why the truth may hurt. She advocates for direct communication as crucial for building and maintaining real, strong relationships. Ashley also shares her personal experiences with honesty and offers practical advice, such as the '24-hour rule,' to approach difficult conversations calmly and effectively. The episode concludes with a challenge to the listeners to initiate honest conversations they've been avoiding and to appreciate friends who offer truthful feedback.

Send a text In this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley discusses the societal perception of being overly obsessed with health and fitness. She argues that prioritizing your health through exercise and nutritious eating is beneficial, not obsessive. Ashley shares personal anecdotes and insights on the positive effects of physical activity on mental and emotional well-being, and how movement helps clear the mind and build resilience. She addresses the social challenges and judgments people face when they choose a health-focused lifestyle, emphasizing the science-backed benefits of regular exercise and good nutrition. Ashley also touches on the influence of social media, engineered dopamine, and the impact of healthy habits on children's development. The episode concludes with Ashley encouraging listeners to take compliments about their dedication to health seriously and to lead by example in their communities.

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley dives into the sacrifices necessary for achieving success in both business and life. She recounts her personal journey, from moving out at 15, working multiple jobs, and balancing school, to eventually opening her own gym. Ashley emphasizes the often unseen and uncelebrated efforts behind personal and professional growth. She discusses the importance of making trade-offs, dealing with judgment, and focusing on passions over social pressures. Ashley challenges listeners to evaluate their own goals and the sacrifices they are willing to make to achieve them, urging them to manifest their dreams and stay committed despite obstacles.

Send a textIn this heartfelt episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley reflects on mortality, the impact of loss, and the importance of living intentionally for the sake of loved ones. She shares personal experiences with grief, particularly the loss of friends and family, and how these moments have shaped her perspective on life and parenting.She emphasizes the importance of being present, involved, and supportive as a parent, and the need to prioritize health and well-being to maximize quality time with family.The episode covers practical steps Ashley takes to stay healthy—regular exercise, mindful nutrition, limiting alcohol, and prioritizing sleep. Ultimately, Ashley encourages listeners to cherish their relationships, make healthy decisions, and live life fully, so they can be there for their loved ones for as long as possible. The episode closes with a message of love and a reminder to take care of oneself and others.

Send a textThis 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.

Send a textThis 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.

Send a textIn 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.

Send a textIn 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.

Send a textIn 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.

Send a textIn 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.

Send a textIn 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.

Send a textIn 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.

Send a textIn 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.

Send a textIn 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.

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley discusses the complexities of body image, reflecting on her experiences growing up as a muscular tomboy who faced judgment and societal pressures. She shares insights on raising her children to be confident in their bodies, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what bodies can do rather than how they look. Ashley recounts conversations with her children about body image and navigating societal perceptions, while also discussing the supportive environment at her gym, Fit Collective. She encourages listeners, especially parents and women with body image issues, to adopt a healthier perspective on body capabilities and self-acceptance so that their kids aren't hating their bodies at 40, too. 

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley delves into her personal journey of outgrowing an older version of herself and accepting a new phase in life. She discusses the challenges and emotional struggles of transitioning from being a highly competitive athlete to seeking a more balanced and pain-free lifestyle. Through her experiences with aging and changing priorities, Ashley reflects on grief, guilt, and the resistance to letting go of an old identity. She emphasizes the importance of embracing new versions of oneself, prioritizing rest and simplicity, and finding peace and creativity in new pursuits. Ashley encourages listeners who are also in transitional phases to accept and explore their evolving selves.

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley shares her personal journey through the launch of her podcast and her experience with perimenopause. Reflecting on her health struggles starting from July 2024, Ashley details her symptoms, including chest pains, exhaustion, weight gain, and mood swings. She discusses her medical consultations, her surprising diagnosis of perimenopause, and the various treatments she pursued, including hormone replacement and lifestyle adjustments. Emphasizing the importance of seeking support and education, Ashley offers advice and resources for women going through similar challenges, highlighting the necessity of understanding one's body, advocating for appropriate medical care, and finding balance in life.

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley dives deep into the unfiltered realities of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. She challenges the polished image often portrayed by influencers, sharing her own tumultuous journey since starting her business in 2013 up to her present-day challenges. Ashley reflects on the difficult experiences of pregnancy, the traumatic birth of her first child in 2019, the emotional turmoil after losing her second baby in 2021, and raising her third child in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses the complexity of not having a maternity leave, juggling work responsibilities, dealing with staff issues, and the emotional and mental strain of trying to maintain both a business and a family. Despite facing numerous setbacks, she emphasizes the importance of boundaries, the support of her husband and community, and her commitment to both her family and her entrepreneurial endeavors.

Send a textIn this episode of the Ashley Mathewson podcast, Ashley shares her life and business journey, from her unfulfilled dream of becoming a lawyer to her pursuing a career in law enforcement and eventual pivot into the fitness industry. Ashley recounts how she entered the business world by opening a gym with partners, dealing with numerous betrayals and financial hardships along the way. She emphasizes the difficult realities of being an entrepreneur, including working multiple jobs, handling business failures, and enduring personal sacrifices. Despite the setbacks, Ashley ultimately found success by persistently learning and adapting. The episode ends with Ashley reflecting on the importance of resilience and offering support to others in their entrepreneurial journeys.

Send a textIn the premiere episode of the Ashley Mathewson Podcast, she introduces her new podcast, focusing on authentic, unpolished discussions about various life experiences. Ashley, a mom, wife, and business owner, describes her intention to cover a wide range of topics including childhood trauma, motherhood, marriage, grief, and business challenges. She emphasizes that this podcast will offer tools and advice,  but aims to share her stories and lessons learned to help others feel understood and less alone. The episode serves as a mission statement for the series, promising raw and relatable content each week.

Send a textIn this episode Ashley shares her deeply personal journey into motherhood despite her initial reluctance due to childhood trauma. Ashley opens up about her turbulent upbringing, marked by parental conflict, emotional neglect, and feelings of abandonment, which shaped her fears about becoming a parent herself. She describes her initial aversion to having children and her eventual change of heart after meeting her supportive husband, Jim. Upon becoming a mother, Ashley finds a profound love for her children and resolves to break the generational cycle of trauma, offering her kids the love, care, and stability she lacked. Ashley encourages listeners who relate to her story to reflect on their experiences and assures them they can change their narrative as well.

Send a textIn this episode Ashley Mathewson shares her unpolished life story, focusing on her tumultuous first marriage at age 23. She recounts the emotional rollercoaster, including her ex-husband's infidelity, sex addiction, and the emotional and physical abuse she suffered. Ashley discusses her development of the '24-hour rule,' a technique that helps her manage emotional reactions by delaying responses to provoking situations. She reflects on how this rule has positively influenced her current relationships and overall mental well-being. This honest and raw account aims to offer listeners relatable insights and practical advice for handling life's messy moments.