Advertise on podcast: Beyond the Surface with Ashley-Ann

Are you avoiding the conversations that could actually deepen your relationship? In this powerful episode, Ashley-Ann sits down with Markwell, creator of The Path of Powerful Partnership, to explore the art of conscious confrontation and why the conversations we fear most are often the doorway to deeper intimacy, trust, and understanding. Together, they unpack how confrontation doesn’t have to create distance or conflict. When approached consciously, it can become one of the most transformative tools in partnership. In this conversation, you’ll discover: How understanding your inner child can completely transform the way you communicate The layers of conscious confrontation and why most people only see the surface The one key that changes how confrontation unfolds The difference between masculine and feminine communication and why it matters in conflict and connection If you’ve ever struggled to say the hard thing, avoid difficult conversations, or want to create deeper intimacy in your relationships, this episode will give you a new way to approach them. Connect with Ashley-Ann https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.youtube.com/@beyondsurface.podcast https://thestudiopress.co/ Connect with Markwell: https://www.thepowerfulpartner.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thatguymarkwell/

Are you aware of the story you’re writing? After 6 loong months, we're back and I'm here to share one of the most transformative chapters of my life and the unexpected inner work that has come with it. But this conversation is beyond talking about motherhood. In this conversation, we're diving into: How the stories you’ve inherited can quietly shape your biggest life decisions Why your presence is what people remember most The subtle ways fear can disguise itself as truth when stepping into new chapters What it really means to consciously “rewrite” your narrative in real time If you’ve ever found yourself questioning your path, reflecting on your past, or wondering what kind of impact you’re truly making in your relationships and life… this episode will invite you to see your story in a completely new way. And if you're looking to rewrite your narrative, experiencing my writing ritual for yourself: https://wordsbyashleyann.kit.com/write-to-heal Connect with Ashley-Ann https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.youtube.com/@beyondsurface.podcast https://thestudiopress.co/ Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting After a Hiatus 02:28 The Journey to Motherhood Begins 07:30 Facing Fears and Embracing Change 11:27 Creating a Nurturing Environment 17:26 The Impact of Presence and Energy

You know what to do, you want to do it… but something keeps holding you back. Why? In this transformative episode of Beyond the Surface, host Ashley-Ann Pereira sits down with Kam Knight — bestselling author and expert on mental performance — to uncover the real reason behind internal resistance and self-sabotage. You’ll learn: How your subconscious mind creates invisible blocksWhy motivation burnout and endless “inspiration” keep you stuckThe link between ego and resistanceHow to reprogram your mind and move beyond your comfort zoneTools for inner healing, emotional awareness, and lasting self-mastery If you’ve ever struggled with overcoming procrastination, breaking bad habits, or understanding your psychology of desire, this conversation will change how you see yourself — and how you create real, sustainable growth. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Connect with Kam: Website: https://kamknight.com Email: [email protected] https://instagram.com/ikamknight https://facebook.com/ikamknight https://youtube.com/@ikamknight https://linkedin.com/in/ikamknight/ https://tiktok.com/@ikamknight Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Purpose and Mission 02:28 Understanding Internal Resistance 06:45 The Complexity of the Human Mind 11:42 Criteria for Resistance 16:05 The Role of Ego in Resistance 21:17 Navigating Wants and Resistance 27:20 Intentionality in Choosing Wants 34:01 Taming the Wanting Mechanism 36:27 Understanding the Wanting Mechanism 39:11 Conquering Internal Resistance 42:26 Tricks of Resistance 46:45 The Importance of Self-Compassion 51:59 Navigating Personal Resistance 57:36 Putting Yourself in Bigger Rooms

What happens when the silence you kept for decades finally finds a voice—and that voice becomes the very thing that heals you? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Stacy Schaffer, Licensed Professional Counselor and author of With Love from a Children’s Therapist, to explore what it means to break generational silence, heal from childhood trauma, and help children become less hurting adults. Stacy opens up about losing her mother at a young age, surviving a year-long trauma she never spoke about until three decades later, and how telling her story became an act of radical self-compassion and truth-telling. Together, we dive into the grief that shapes us, the courage it takes to tell the truth, and the healing that happens when we finally stop hiding behind resilience. From her work as a children’s therapist helping young people process grief and anxiety, to her own journey of reclaiming her voice, Stacy offers profound insight into the power of vulnerability, authenticity, and emotional intelligence. Topics we explore: Healing from childhood trauma and generational silenceGrief, loss, and the mother woundRecognizing trauma in children before it becomes generationalThe courage to speak your truth and own your storyInner child healing, self-compassion, and emotional resilience 🎧 Tune in for a deeply moving, hopeful conversation about what it means to do the inner work—for ourselves, for our children, and for the generations to come. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Connect with Stacy: https://www.instagram.com/hoperestored https://authorstacyschaffer.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Stacey's Mission 02:32 The Journey of Sharing Her Story 08:30 The Impact of Vulnerability in Therapy 14:46 Navigating Grief and Loss 22:44 Independence vs. Interdependence in Relationships 25:47 Children's Trauma in Today's Society 26:11 Navigating the New Parenting Landscape 28:18 Understanding the Unique Challenges of Today's Youth 32:22 The Importance of Authenticity in Parenting 35:52 The Ripple Effect of Sharing Our Truths 43:28 Curiosity, Courage, and Compassion in Healing

If you’ve ever felt like you’re too much in relationships — too anxious, too sensitive, too afraid they’ll leave — this episode will change how you see yourself. Join host Ashley-Ann on Beyond the Surface as she sits down with Relationship & Anxiety Therapist Valerie Rubin to uncover the truth about anxious attachment healing and what it really takes to create secure, lasting love. You’ll learn: Why talk therapy alone isn’t enough to heal attachment trauma How somatic healing and nervous system regulation create real emotional safety The science behind breaking trauma bonds and attraction to emotionally unavailable partners How inner child healing and brainspotting therapy help rewire old patterns The first steps to feeling calm, confident, and connected in relationships If you’ve been stuck in cycles of overthinking, people-pleasing, or fearing abandonment, this conversation will help you begin your CPTSD healing journey, rebuild self worth and love, and learn how to feel safe in relationships — starting with yourself. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Connect with Valerie: https://www.instagram.com/healwithval/ https://www.valrubin.com/ https://www.healmyanxiousattachment.com/ https://open.spotify.com/show/1UZDfyhUZgAGIdlEv5VP85?si=9e5fe991a4f34a79 Download Valerie's FREE meditation "How to Heal Your Fear of Abandonment" https://stan.store/healwithval CHAPTERS: 00:00 Valerie's Journey to Therapy 03:35 Understanding Anxious Attachment 06:16 Cycles of Emotional Unavailability 09:38 Fantasy Thinking in Relationships 12:18 Navigating Parental Relationships 15:10 Compassion and Healing 17:45 Attachment Styles in Different Relationships 19:55 The Limitations of Talk Therapy 23:08 The Importance of Somatic Therapy 27:53 Understanding Safety in the Body 30:08 Navigating Difficult Conversations 34:22 Processing Emotions Before Conflict 37:33 Building Self-Trust and Inner Validation 41:24 Curiosity, Courage, and Compassion in Self-Discovery

In this episode, Spiritual Mentor and Narrative Alchemist Kayla MacDonald joins me to explore the deep work of healing ancestral patterns, reparenting yourself, and transforming generational shame into creative power. Kayla shares how even in a healthy marriage, her body held memories of her lineage’s pain—and how she learned to release it through somatic healing, dance alchemy, and playful, creative self-expression. We talk about breaking free from inherited cycles around love, body image, and self-worth—and how healing doesn’t have to be heavy. It can be sensual, creative, and deeply freeing. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying wounds that aren’t entirely yours, or you’re ready to step into embodied wholeness, this conversation will speak to your soul. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Connect with Kayla: https://www.instagram.com/embodiedwritingwarrior/ https://www.embodiedwritingwarrior.com/gift Chapters 00:00 Reclaiming Self-Authorship and Power 01:57 Navigating Ancestral Wounds in Marriage 05:29 Healing Dynamics in Relationships 09:35 The Role of Support in Healing 14:05 Creating Safety in Relationships 16:52 Understanding Inherited Wounds 18:49 Transforming Wounds into Gifts 20:05 The Divine Masculine and Playful Healing 23:58 The Healing Power of Playfulness 25:30 Transforming Self-Worth and Metrics 27:51 Redefining Worth Through Values 29:39 Navigating Social Media's Duality 30:50 Innovative Journaling Methodology 34:21 Launching Food Freedom Fantasy Program 36:08 Integrating Archetypes for Self-Expression 41:37 Embracing Emotions and Self-Compassion

When you feel stuck, lost, or like a failure, it’s easy to believe you’re on the wrong path. But what if those feelings are actually an invitation? In this episode, I share how I've learned to reframe this feeling with a powerful African proverb: “To get lost is to learn the way”. I'll walk you through my three-step writing ritual that acts as a portal back to yourself. This process is designed to help you: Write the Rage: Learn to be incredibly raw with your emotions and get everything out onto the page without judgment. Reveal the Root: Reflect on the old stories and beliefs that have held you back and see what's truly underneath your pain. Reclaim Your Truth: Decide what happens next and choose the new truths you want to live by. This episode is for anyone who wants to use writing as a tool for deep healing, transformational growth, and personal liberation. Get the Write to Heal writing ritual: https://thestudiopress.myflodesk.com/write-to-heal Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective Hi there 🌹 I'm Ashley-Ann, a creative alchemist and book coach who helps thought leaders — coaches, speakers, soulpreneurs and spiritual leaders — publish their life's work. When you’re standing on the edge of realizing you have a unique perspective and a story the worlds needs to hear, I'm the one who helps you cross the threshold. My mission is to help thought leaders break through the barriers of self-doubt, overthinking, and perfectionism and alchemize them into authentic self-expression.

What if exhaustion wasn’t the end, but the breakthrough? In this episode, I sit down with Gicela Holguin, Self-Connection Guide and Soul Archeologist, as she shares her transformative journey walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. What started as an intuitive nudge turned into a profound lesson in slowing down, listening to her body, and realizing she was still living in survival mode—disguised as ambition. We explore how to tell the difference between intuition and fear, what it means to create a “soft landing” after years of leaping, and how the body becomes a roadmap for healing and alignment. If you’ve ever wondered how to stop just surviving and start thriving, this episode will give you the tools, perspective, and inspiration to trust your inner voice and live in soulful alignment. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Connect with Gicela: https://www.instagram.com/gicelaholguin Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:40 The Decision to Embark on the Camino 05:29 Embracing Change and Surrendering to the Universe 08:17 The Spiritual Connection and Physical Journey 10:43 Trusting Intuition Over Fear 13:22 Moments of Vulnerability and Self-Discovery 15:53 The Breakthrough: From Surviving to Thriving 21:58 Embracing Change and Trusting the Leap 24:32 Finding Harmony: Structure and Flow 26:36 The Journey of Trust and Service 29:01 The Importance of Emotional Purging 31:47 Building Community and Connection 37:21 Creating Intentional Community through Technology Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective

In this episode, Ashley-Ann Pereira shares her author journey and how writing a book helped her find her voice and transform her life. Whether you’re a woman writer looking for publishing support, a memoir writer, or seeking courage to write and share your personal story, this episode will inspire and guide you through the book publishing process with intention and confidence. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Publishing a Book 05:25 Overcoming Resistance and Finding Intention Hi there 🌹 I'm Ashley-Ann, a creative alchemist and book coach who helps thought leaders — coaches, speakers, soulpreneurs and spiritual leaders — publish their life's work. When you’re standing on the edge of realizing you have a unique perspective and a story the worlds needs to hear, I'm the one who helps you cross the threshold. My mission is to help thought leaders break through the barriers of self-doubt, overthinking, and perfectionism and alchemize them into authentic self-expression.

When we break our silence and begin owning your story, everything shifts — shame turns into freedom, silence into connection, and pain into purpose. In this episode, Ashley-Ann Pereira shares a personal story of how silence created a wall between her and her father during her wedding and how it taught her the power of sharing your story. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective Chapters 00:00 Breaking the Silence: A Journey of Liberation 02:58 The Impact of Father-Daughter Relationships 05:14 Owning Your Story: The Power of Expression 07:26 Collective Voices: A Space for Sharing Stories Hi there 🌹 I'm Ashley-Ann, a creative alchemist and book coach who helps thought leaders — coaches, speakers, soulpreneurs and spiritual leaders — publish their life's work. When you’re standing on the edge of realizing you have a unique perspective and a story the worlds needs to hear, I'm the one who helps you cross the threshold. My mission is to help thought leaders break through the barriers of self-doubt, overthinking, and perfectionism and alchemize them into authentic self-expression.

Your story isn’t just words—it’s a powerful portal for healing, confidence, and transformation. In this episode, Ashley-Ann Pereira shares how writing your story, speaking your truth, or self-publishing can help you overcome fear, build confidence, and create deeper connections. If you’ve ever wondered how storytelling leads to healing, growth, and freedom, this conversation is for you. Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective Hi there 🌹 I'm Ashley-Ann, a creative alchemist and book coach who helps thought leaders — coaches, speakers, soulpreneurs and spiritual leaders — publish their life's work. When you’re standing on the edge of realizing you have a unique perspective and a story the worlds needs to hear, I'm the one who helps you cross the threshold. My mission is to help thought leaders break through the barriers of self-doubt, overthinking, and perfectionism and alchemize them into authentic self-expression.

Disconnection can feel like a creative roadblock, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, I dive into how losing touch with our inner voice impacts self-expression and share simple, actionable steps to reconnect. From journaling to movement, discover how to break through the noise and let your true self shine. Perfect for anyone feeling stuck, this episode offers a fresh perspective on finding your voice and expressing it with joy and authenticity. Get the Write to Heal writing ritual: https://thestudiopress.myflodesk.com/write-to-heal Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective Hi there 🌹 I'm Ashley-Ann, a creative alchemist and book coach who helps thought leaders — coaches, speakers, soulpreneurs and spiritual leaders — publish their life's work. When you’re standing on the edge of realizing you have a unique perspective and a story the worlds needs to hear, I'm the one who helps you cross the threshold. My mission is to help thought leaders break through the barriers of self-doubt, overthinking, and perfectionism and alchemize them into authentic self-expression.

In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Recker to talk about the power of saying yes, speaking your truth, and how writing your story can become a catalyst for healing and transformation. Nicole opens up about her journey as a co-author in Collective Voices and how one yes led to growth, opportunities, and the confidence to write her own books. Together, we discuss the sacredness of the first draft, the fears that hold us back, and why discomfort is often the pathway to the most authentic version of ourselves. If you’re feeling the pull to share your story, Collective Voices is your invitation. This 12-week co-author experience has been the catalyst for so many writers to finally claim their voice, write their chapter, and unlock the courage to begin their book. >>> https://thestudiopress.co/collective Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Connect with Nicole: https://www.instagram.com/nicolereckersjourney https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ds6RMQaUA/ Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective Hi there 🌹 I'm Ashley-Ann, a creative alchemist and book coach who helps thought leaders — coaches, speakers, soulpreneurs and spiritual leaders — publish their life's work. When you’re standing on the edge of realizing you have a unique perspective and a story the worlds needs to hear, I'm the one who helps you cross the threshold. My mission is to help thought leaders break through the barriers of self-doubt, overthinking, and perfectionism and alchemize them into authentic self-expression.

In this episode, I sit down with Julian Bermudez to talk about what it really means to heal trauma and reconnect with yourself. We explore how disconnection shows up, the impact of identity healing and trauma recovery, and how the inner healing journey can lead to powerful transformation. Julian shares wisdom around psychedelic therapy, psychedelic integration, and daily practices for self attunement, inner child healing, and holistic healing. If you’re ready for emotional healing, self discovery, and personal growth, this conversation is for you. Get the Write to Heal writing ritual: https://thestudiopress.myflodesk.com/write-to-heal Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wordsbyashleyann https://thestudiopress.co/ Connect with Julian: https://www.instagram.com/psycheintegration https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-bermudez-ma-ccmp/ Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective

What if motherhood didn’t mean losing yourself? In this episode, we’re talking about doing life your way — no pressure to please everyone, no guilt for wanting more than sacrifice. Janice shares how her motherhood journey and identity work have helped her break generational cycles, raise kids differently, and create things that carry her soul — like her books and affirmation cards. We get real about fear, doubt, comparison, and why you actually lose more when you don’t try at all. If you’re juggling motherhood, a business, or just need a reminder to trust your timing and lead with love, this one’s for you. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:38 The Creative Process and Personal Growth 05:29 Navigating Identity and Motherhood 08:29 The Importance of Connection and Communication 11:14 Breaking Generational Patterns 14:14 The Role of Trust in Creativity 17:05 Finding Joy in Creation 19:43 Embracing Imperfection and Courage 22:51 The Impact of Our Work on Others 25:25 Learning to Let Go and Flow 28:30 Creating a New Dynamic in Parenting 31:18 Final Thoughts and Reflections Connect with Janice here: Website: https://www.joyfulheartsco.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyfulhearts.co/ Connect with Ashley-Ann here:  Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/wordsbyashleyann⁠ Self-Publishing Agency: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thestudiopress⁠  Want to share your story and become an author? Learn more about Collective Voices, the co-author experience: https://thestudiopress.co/collective Hi there 🌹 I'm Ashley-Ann, a creative alchemist and book coach who helps thought leaders — coaches, speakers, soulpreneurs and spiritual leaders — publish their life's work. When you’re standing on the edge of realizing you have a unique perspective and a story the worlds needs to hear, I'm the one who helps you cross the threshold. My mission is to help thought leaders break through the barriers of self-doubt, overthinking, and perfectionism and alchemize them into authentic self-expression.