Explore every episode of the podcast The Calm Collective - a wellness podcast for women

Have you cleaned up your diet, cut out gluten, taken the probiotics, and you're still struggling with bloating, constipation, acid reflux, Hashimoto's, hormone imbalances, or low energy?

If so, this episode is for you.

One of the biggest misconceptions Colleen sees in the health world is that healing starts and ends with the gut. While your gut is incredibly important, it doesn't function on its own.

Every system in your body is connected, and one of the most overlooked pieces of the puzzle is your mineral status.

In this episode, Colleen is breaking down why she loves Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) and why it's one of her favorite functional lab tests for uncovering the root causes behind chronic gut symptoms and the systemic issues that often follow.

We'll talk about:

✨ Why your gut can't function properly without minerals

✨ How minerals impact stomach acid, digestive enzymes, nutrient absorption, and thyroid function

✨ The important roles of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium—and why they do so much more than most people realize

✨ Why "just take magnesium" isn't always the best advice

✨ How HTMA provides a unique three-month snapshot of your body's mineral patterns and stress response

✨ How this test helps her create personalized nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations instead of relying on guesswork

If you're tired of chasing symptoms and you're ready to understand why your body isn't functioning the way it should, this episode will completely change the way you think about gut health.

Ready to stop guessing?

For a limited time, Colleen is offering her HTMA + Results Review Session at a discounted rate!

You'll receive:• An HTMA test kit shipped directly to your home• A comprehensive review of your results• Personalized nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations• A 60-minute one-on-one consultation where we'll walk through your results together and create a clear roadmap for healing.

Because healing isn't about throwing random supplements at symptoms.

It's about understanding what your body has been trying to tell you all along.

Book here

 Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

Have you ever bought a box of cookies just because they were labeled “gluten-free” or “vegan,” assuming they were automatically better for you?

This week on The Calm Collective, Colleen and Ashlee sit down with the incredible Chef Nina to unpack how diet culture has completely weaponized food labels, leaving us overwhelmed, fearful, and deeply disconnected from our own bodies.

Chef Nina shares her powerful personal transformation from viewing food strictly through the lens of weight loss to discovering her "Be Nourished" method—a philosophy rooted in self-love, body awareness, and using real food as fuel.

Together, they dive into why a truly nourishing lifestyle starts with regulating your nervous system through somatic practices like yoga and breathwork before you even look at your plate.

If you’ve ever found yourself second-guessing every meal or trapped in the fast-food convenience loop, this episode is the refreshing, non-judgmental reset you’ve been waiting for.

Colleen, Ashlee, and Chef Nina break down:

 The Label Trap: Why "gluten-free" and "dairy-free" don't automatically equal healthy, and how restrictive diets create a state of internal fear and hyper-vigilance.

 The Physiology of Processed Food: How chemical preservatives force the body to work overtime, triggering digestive issues, brain fog, and hormonal imbalances.

 The "Will This Nourish Me?" Filter: Chef Nina’s simple, mindful question to ask before eating to transition away from food addiction and toward conscious choices.

 The Future-Self Pivot: Why true wellness is about ditching instant gratification and anchoring your current choices in how they will make your future self feel.

 The Real Food Reset: How to cultivate deep self-compassion when you slip up, build food confidence, and embrace inclusive cooking that actually tastes amazing (yes, even nutrient-dense donuts!).

Want more from Nina? Check out her Cook Once Guide

Follow her on the Gram: GetNourishedwithNina

and visit her Website

 Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

What does it really mean to nourish yourself?

If your first thought was food, you're not wrong—but nourishment is so much bigger than what's on your plate.

In this solo episode, Colleen shares her personal health journey from being a chronically sick child with frequent infections and antibiotic use to struggling with endometriosis, severe digestive issues, eczema, cystic acne, PMDD, brain fog, and debilitating fatigue in early adulthood.

After being told time and time again that her labs were "normal" and leaving appointments with more prescriptions than answers, she discovered something that changed everything: true healing starts with nourishment.

But nourishment isn't just about eating healthy.

Join Colleen as she explores the difference between dieting and nourishing, the obsession and fear often created by the wellness industry, and why functional nutrition looks beyond food to address the whole person.

In this episode, you'll learn:

✨ Why nourishment is about more than calories and macros

✨ The difference between restriction and true nourishment

✨ How stress and nervous system dysregulation impact digestion

✨ Why sleep is one of the most overlooked healing tools

✨ How functional nutrition connects food, lifestyle, digestion, hormones, and energy

✨ Why healing isn't about finding the perfect supplement or diet

✨ How functional lab testing can help uncover the "why" behind your symptoms

If you've ever felt exhausted, bloated, overwhelmed, frustrated by "normal" lab results, or stuck wondering why you don't feel like yourself, this episode is for you.

Resources Mentioned:

✨ HTMA + Single Session Package with FREE HTMA test! 

Your minerals tell the story your blood work often misses. Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) helps uncover how your body is handling stress, producing energy, and utilizing nutrients. Podcast listeners can receive a special discount on an HTMA + Single Session package, which includes:

• HTMA test kit shipped directly to your home

• 90-minute in-depth consultation

• Personalized recommendations based on your results

Use code PODCAST at checkout.

Grab it Here

How is it possible to have a perfectly healthy diet on paper, yet still struggle with brutal sleep issues, hormonal imbalances, chronic anxiety, and digestive problems?

This week on The Calm Collective, Colleen and Ashlee dive into a massive missing piece in the wellness world: you cannot eat your way out of a dysregulated life.

When life is stuck in a state of constant stress and survival mode, your body literally cannot absorb the benefits of your healthy habits. Colleen shares a heartbreaking pattern she sees in her practice—clients who are so profoundly depleted they can no longer even answer the question, "What brings you joy?"

Colleen and Ashlee break down why true self-nourishment isn’t another task for your to-do list; it’s a lifestyle built on emotional safety, rest, and presence. If you’ve been checking all the wellness boxes but still feel like you're running on fumes, this conversation will help you shift from just "going through the motions" to actually filling your cup.

Colleen and Ashlee discuss:

• The Clean Eating Trap: Why eating well while eating in a state of high stress prevents your body from actually resting and digesting.

• The Joy Deficit: What happens to your nervous system when life becomes entirely about obligation and checking requirements, leaving zero room for pleasure.

• The Power of Micro-Moments: Practical ways Ashlee uses and teaches "attention breaks" and unblocked meal times to anchor the nervous system during a hectic workday.

• Active vs. Passive Participation: Why showing up to the gym or doing breathwork while completely distracted yields "junk output"—and how to cultivate true presence.

• The Self-Nourishment Audit: A simple, real-world self-assessment to grade your nourishment across relationships, sleep, and boundaries, plus how to accept help so you can finally prioritize yourself

  Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

  And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

When you think of the word "nourishment," what comes to mind? Is it the food you eat, the rest you get, or the way you move your body?

This month on the podcast, Colleen and Ashlee are diving deep into what it truly means to nourish ourselves. In this special solo episode, Ashlee shares a deeply personal, beautifully unexpected way she recently chose to nourish her own nervous system: by finally saying yes to a dream she’s carried for decades.

This episode drops a week before the official launch day of Success Redefined, a co-authored book featuring a chapter written by Ashlee alongside 10 other incredible women.

Ashlee pulls back the curtain on the real, raw journey of writing this chapter.

From the initial instinct to downplay her achievement and let her inner critic take the wheel, to the profound moment she realized this wasn't just a project—it was an act of profound inner child healing.

Ashlee opens up about growing up feeling unsafe around other girls, always choosing to do things entirely alone, and how this book allowed her to finally heal that programming by trusting, sharing, and being cheered on by a community of safe women.

In this intimate solo episode, Ashlee shares:

• The 30-Year-Old Journal Entry: Looking back at the moment she first admitted she wanted to write a book, and how life and additional responsibilities almost made her bury the dream entirely.

• Overcoming the Inner Critic: How she stopped downplaying her success ("it's just a chapter") and shifted her mindset from comparison to pure self-celebration.

• Healing Through Sisterhood: Releasing the old programming that women aren't safe, and leaning into the deeply regulating power of female community.

• A Sneak Peek Inside: Ashlee reads a few short passages straight from her chapter, sharing the exact ways breathwork changed—and saved—her life from chronic survival mode.

Your dreams aren't a burden, and they aren't something to put off until life is "perfect." This episode is your warm invitation to look at what you’ve been denying yourself for decades and finally claim it.

If you are ready to stop letting your inner critic run your life, peel back the layers of your own programming, and see what is possible when women lock arms to redefine what success looks like, we want you to read this book.

• Purchase Your Copy Today: Support Ashlee and the other incredible co-authors by grabbing your copy right now! [ Purchase Success Redefined Here]

• Join the Launch Celebration: If you're listening to this before June 11th, Ashlee is stepping onto the stage to celebrate this milestone live. Grab your copy, join the energy, and let's honor our dreams together! [Join Here]

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

We’ve all been there: a minor comment from your partner triggers an immediate, defensive spike in your chest, and before you know it, you're locked in a screaming match.

But what if the issue isn’t your partner's behavior, but your own dysregulated response to it?

This week on The Calm Collective, Colleen and Ashlee are joined by Michelle Purta, marriage coach and host of The Marriage & Motherhood Podcast.

Together, they pull back the curtain on how childhood programming and pride show up in our marriages today, and why trying to "win" an argument is the fastest way to lose connection.

Colleen, Ashlee, and Michelle break down:

• "What Side of the Street Can I Own?": Shifting away from blame and defensiveness by identifying your own loops and triggers in real-time.

• The PEACE Method: Michelle’s structured communication framework for choosing logic over raw emotion when things get heated.

• The Power of the Pause: Why forcing an immediate resolution usually backfires, and how to stay grounded when a conversation feels uncomfortable.

• The Hardest Apology: Ashlee gets vulnerable about her own struggle with apologizing and how different "versions" of our past selves show up in our current relationships.

Your marriage doesn't need less conflict; it needs more regulation. If you’re ready to trade the repetitive cycles of keeping score for a relationship built on true co-regulation, this episode is a must-listen.

Connect with Michell here: www.michellepurta.com/pg/confidence 

Marriage & Motherhood - How To Reconnect With Your Spouse After Kids

Listen to it on Apple

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

If you keep starting and stopping diet changes or a new workout plan because there’s just too much on your plate, grab a cup of coffee and listen in.

Colleen is calling out a pattern so many women get stuck in—putting their own health last to keep everything else running smoothly.

Over time, that shows up in the body as bloating, fatigue, crashes, and feeling like you’re constantly running on empty.

Here’s the shift: your health doesn’t need permission.

In this episode, Colleen breaks down how to actually create change without overwhelming your family or yourself—small, realistic steps that stick.

She also shares simple communication strategies, boundary-setting tools, and flexible food ideas that support your goals without adding stress at home.

If you’ve been stuck in the “I’ll start when life calms down” cycle, this is your reminder—it doesn’t need to be all or nothing. Just one change that finally includes you.

If you’re ready to stop guessing and start getting answers:

Colleen is offering a 90-Minute Gut Strategy Session where you’ll walk away with a personalized plan, clear next steps, and real direction for your healing.

👉 Grab your session here: https://l.bttr.to/KApiu

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

We often label ourselves as "nice" or "helpful," but what if those behaviors are actually signs that your nervous system is stuck in a dysregulated state?

This week on The Calm Collective, Colleen and Ashlee are pulling back the curtain on the "Fawn" response, the survival mechanism that forces us to prioritize everyone else’s regulation over our own.

We explore how childhood environments often "program" us to monitor the moods of others just to feel safe, and how that chronic scanning leads to a life of exhaustion, resentment, and emotional burnout. 

If you find it impossible to stay regulated when someone else is upset, this episode will help you understand why and how to find your way back to center.

We’re digging into:

• The Fawn Response: Why people-pleasing is actually a high-alert survival state, not a personality trait.

• The Dysregulation Loop: How we "leak" our energy trying to regulate others so that we can finally feel calm.

• The Physical Toll: Why a lifetime of choosing others' peace over your own leads to physiological "alarms" like anxiety and sleep disruption.

• From Co-dependence to Co-regulation: How to hold your own regulated state even when the person across from you is spiraling.

You cannot find peace by becoming a human buffer for everyone else's stress. Join us as we discuss how to stop the cycle of fixing and start the work of inner regulation.

 Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

It’s easy to be "zen" when you are in your own quiet space, practicing what you preach. But what happens to that regulation when you’re stuck in traffic, navigating awkward family dynamics, or listening to your teenager clap beats while you’re trying to cook dinner?

In this solo episode, Ashlee is getting real about the gap between our "nook of the world" and the chaotic reality of day-to-day life. She's pulling back the curtain on her own struggles with dysregulation—where she loses her cool, how she tried to fake it (and why she's stopped), and the specific moments that trigger the fight-or-flight response.

We’re diving into:

• Connection: Why Ashlee's energy spikes (and eventually crashes) when she's in loud, surface-level environments.

• The Multitasking Myth: Why being "half-in" on everything is actually destroying your nervous system’s ability to stay present.

• The Mirror Effect: Why seeing your own frustrated reactions reflected in your child’s behavior is the ultimate and most humbling wake-up call.

• Practical Regulation: The tools I: use music, humming, and specific breathwork patterns to pull out of the "rage-spiral" before the lash out.

Regulation isn't about being perfectly calm 24/7; it’s about having a toolbox you can actually reach for when someone else’s chaos starts leaking into your space. If you’re tired of "spewing" your stress onto the people you love, this episode is your permission slip to stop reacting and start choosing your response.

Find your calm with my Take a breath audio - a 10 minute practice to help you get regulated.

Learn more about my 6-week program: REGULATE here

General close: Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

Ever feel like you’re doing all the "right" things: yoga, wine at 5:00 PM, and Netflix…. but you’re still snapping at your kids and waking up exhausted?

This week, Colleen and Ashlee are getting into the real science of dysregulation.

We’re moving past the "all-or-nothing" mindset and talking about why your nervous system isn't a light switch that needs to stay "off." Instead, we’re exploring how to build a system that can handle stress without spiraling.

We’re breaking down:

• Vitamins vs. Painkillers: Why your vacation is just a temporary fix (a "painkiller") and what daily habits act as the "vitamins" that actually build resilience.

• The Morning Spiral: How dysregulation often starts before your feet even hit the floor—and how to catch it early.

• Contagious Stress: Why your "vibe" might be triggering everyone else in the house and how to stay anchored when the world is chaotic.

• Small Shifts, Big Gains: Why we start with regulation before we ever touch your diet or your to-do list.

Life isn't about being perfectly calm; it’s about being flexible enough to bounce back. Let’s talk about how to stop numbing the stress and start building a system that can actually handle it.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

What happens when your body finally says "no more"?

This week on The Calm Collective, Colleen and Ashlee are joined by Naomi, a fitness and business mentor who learned the hard way that you can’t out-hustle a nervous system in crisis.

Naomi shares the raw details of her journey—from the toxic pressures of the fitness industry and seeking external validation in a difficult relationship, to the terrifying emergency surgery that changed everything.

We’re talking about why we often wait for a "perforated ulcer" moment before we prioritize our well-being, and how to start climbing back from the low points before you hit rock bottom.

We’re getting real about:

• The Burnout Spectrum: The difference between corporate exhaustion and the unique "always-on" stress of being an entrepreneur.

• The Search for Approval: How external criticism can drive us into unhealthy habits and how to rebuild a sense of self-worth from the inside out.

• Hard Boundaries for Soft Living: Naomi’s "sacred time" rules, including why she stops work at 4:30 PM and stays off messages on weekends.

• Redefining Success: Shifting your focus from just "hitting the numbers" to living a life where you’re actually present for your family.

Life is too short to wait for a health crisis to give you permission to rest. Let’s talk about how to choose yourself now, rather than later.

Check out Naomi's FitBiz Study Hall Here and follow her here

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

“I’m just so busy.”

It sounds harmless… but what if your packed schedule is the very thing keeping you stuck in bloating, fatigue, and constant gut issues?

In this solo episode of The Calm Collective, Colleen is connecting the dots between your go-go-go lifestyle and what’s actually happening inside your body.

Because here’s the truth:You can’t heal your gut in a body that feels constantly rushed, stressed, and depleted.

She breaks down how chronic stress, rushing through meals, eating on the go, and even something as simple as not chewing your food can disrupt digestion at the root—leading to symptoms like:

• Bloating that makes you look (and feel) pregnant after meals

• Exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest

• Reflux, constipation, or unpredictable digestion

• Skin issues like eczema

• Joint pain and inflammation

If you’ve been trying all the “right” things but still feel off… this episode will help you understand why.

Colleen also shares how functional nutrition takes the guesswork out of gut healing through tools like GI-MAP testing—so you can stop spinning your wheels and start addressing the root cause.

If you’re ready to stop guessing and start getting answers:

She’s offering a 90-Minute Gut Strategy Session where you’ll walk away with a personalized plan, clear next steps, and real direction for your healing.

👉 Grab your session here

Connect with Colleen: www.mindfully-nourished.com

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

This episode hits home because we’ve all been there—staring at a to-do list that feels more like a hostage situation than a plan. In this solo session, Ashlee gets into the nitty-gritty of "time leaks" and why most of us are actually just busy-working ourselves into a burnout.

If you’re a founder or a mom (or both) who feels like you’re constantly "behind" despite never sitting down, this one is for you. Ashlee breaks down why your traditional to-do list is actually sabotaging your peace and how perfectionism is just a fancy word for procrastination.

What we’re digging into:

• The To-Do List Lie: Why a never-ending list is overwhelm, not a strategy and how to switch to a "Brain Dump & Schedule" flow that actually works.

• Perfectionism is a Time Thief: Why you’re spending three hours on a 20-minute task and how to finally embrace "done is better than perfect."

• High-Value vs. Low-Value: Learning to tackle the "needle-movers" first so you stop ending your day wondering where the time went.

• Decision Fatigue: How a lack of self-regulation is making every tiny choice feel like a mountain.

The truth is, you can’t manage your time if you aren’t managing your nervous system. When we’re dysregulated, we leak time through indecision and "polishing" things that don't matter.

Shift Your Relationship with Time - Want to help you move out of that frantic "survival mode" and back into the driver's seat? Join Ashlee for a Free Breathwork Session on April 28th at 12:00 PM EST. We’re going to use the breath to clear the mental clutter, regulate your system, and help you reclaim your focus.

[Email Ashlee HERE to get your link to join]

Missed the session? Email Ashlee directly to get your replay: Ashlee@ashleelivingstone.com OR send me a DM "TIME" on Instagram.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

"I’m just so busy." We’ve all said it, but what if our "busyness" is actually just a collection of unexamined habits? This week on The Calm Collective, Ashlee and Colleen are pulling back the curtain on the great time-management myth. 

We’re exploring why modern conveniences haven't actually made us less stressed and how to stop "filling the gaps" with distractions that drain our nervous systems.

We’re getting tactical about how to audit your life and align your daily actions with how you actually want to feel. 

Join us as we discuss:

• The Screen-Time Audit: Why identifying where your minutes are leaking is the first step to reclaiming your time.

• Why "wanting to feel better" isn't enough and how to set measurable health goals that actually stick.

• Meal Prep & Energy Management: How the "stories" we tell ourselves about grocery shopping and cooking are actually draining our battery before we even start.

• Structure is Freedom: Inspired by Brené Brown, we discuss why a disciplined calendar is actually the key to personal freedom and mental clarity.

If your calendar feels like a list of obligations rather than a reflection of your priorities, it’s time for a reset. We’re sharing how to block out the "Noise" and start scheduling the version of yourself you’ve been putting off.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

It’s the middle of the night, your teen is spiraling, and suddenly, your heart is racing right along with theirs. Sound familiar?

This week on The Calm Collective, we’re joined by Certified Master Life Coach and teen expert Becky Funk to talk about the "anxiety loop"—that exhausting cycle where our kids' stress becomes our own.

Becky pulls back the curtain on the "Big Six" lifestyle audit and shares how small shifts in sleep, hydration, and even energy drink consumption can radically change a teenager's mental health.

We dive deep into:

• The Perfectionism Trap: Whyteens are struggling more than ever and how to shift from "performing" to "growing."

• Social Media & Survival: Navigating the "left out" feeling when you're the parent setting the phone boundaries.

• The Vagus Nerve Secret: Becky’s personal journey through her son’s health crisis and the tools she used to model calm in the chaos.

• Raising a "Stand Strong" Teen: How to help your child find their voice in the face of bullying and social pressure.

As moms, we often try to fix the destination, but Becky reminds us to focus on the journey.

Whether you’re dealing with bedtime superstitions or high school social hurdles, this episode is your permission slip to stop being the "fixer" and start being the regulated anchor your teen needs.

Grab Becky’s Free Guide: 10 calming responses ⁠

For more info reach out to Becky: Website , Instagram

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠ And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

Are your kids picky eaters? Struggling with mood swings, anxiety, or focus issues? You might be surprised how much their diet—and your approach to feeding them—plays a role.

In this episode, I break down the biggest nutrition myths for kids and share what really matters: real, balanced food. From sugar and juice to “kid-only” foods and picky eating, we’ll explore how diet affects behavior, gut health, and even development. I’ll also share practical tips for making family meals fun, approachable, and stress-free—without cooking separate dinners for everyone.

Plus, if you’re ready to take it a step further, I’ll explain how functional lab testing can help uncover the root causes of health concerns and support lasting changes for you and your kids.

🎁 Bonus: Book a complimentary consultation call with me and receive a quick & easy breakfast guide, pulled straight from our family favorites.

Whether you’re struggling with picky eaters, behavioral challenges, or just want your family to feel energized and nourished, this episode is packed with insights and actionable steps you can start today.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

What do you do when your child calls you from school, heart-broken and wanting to be picked up because of a haircut and a group of mean kids? 

I’m sure, like many of us, your first instinct is to rescue. You want to drive to the school, pick them up, and protect them from the world. But this week on The Calm Collective, Ashlee is sharing why that "rescue" might actually be doing more harm than good.

She’s taking you behind the scenes of a recent, raw experience with her 13-year-old son—from the anxiety of a new haircut to navigating mean kids at school. We explore the difficult transition from being the "Rescuer" to becoming the "Empowering Coach."

In this solo episode, Ashlee dives into:

• The Drama Triangle: How to spot when you’re falling into the "Rescuer" role and why it unintentionally reinforces a victim mentality in our kids.

• Self-Regulation in the Storm: The exact tools she used to calm her own physical stress response (the "Mama Bear" activation) so she could show up for her son with clarity, not impulsivity.

• The "Guidance Counselor" Victory: Why letting your child use their own voice to set boundaries is the ultimate confidence builder.

Parenting isn't about removing every obstacle; it’s about giving our children the tools to climb over them. If you’ve been feeling "activated" by your child's struggles lately, this episode is a roadmap for coming back to center and leading from a place of empowerment.

Wanna chat more about this or any of our episodes? We'd love to hear your feedback - connect with us here: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

What if the key to a calmer home isn’t a better schedule, but a better boundary?

This week on The Calm Collective, Ashlee and Colleen are getting honest about the high-stakes challenge of raising independent kids in a world designed to distract them.

We explore the vital link between our own emotional regulation and our children’s behavior, diving into why "gentle parenting" doesn't have to mean "no boundaries." 

Join us as we discuss:

• The Screen-Free Shift: How a simple backpack of activities can reclaim family dinner time.

• The Boredom Benefit: Why we need to stop "arranging" our kids' lives and let them figure it out.

• The Summer Sanity Saver: How structured routines and daily checklists turned chaos into cooperation.

• Co-Regulation: Why your office door rule (and your own self-care) is actually a gift to your kids.

It’s time to trade the tech-tantrums for a little more presence and a lot more peace. Whether you’re navigating different family rules at the rink or trying to survive a public meltdown, we’re here to help you stay calm, stay firm, and stay connected.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In this powerful conversation, Ashlee and Colleen sit down with burnout and alignment coach Mel Grime to unpack what burnout really is — and why so many high-capacity women are silently living in it.

Burnout isn’t just being tired. It’s chronic stress without relief. It’s functioning on empty. It’s the pressure to perform across career, motherhood, relationships, and home — all while appearing “fine.”

Mel shares her personal story of hitting a breaking point after years of people-pleasing and perfectionism, and explains why traditional self-care advice often doesn’t work when someone is deeply burned out. Instead of quick fixes, she walks us through the power of small, safe, incremental healing — and why recovery requires patience, community, and self-compassion.

In this episode, we explore:

• The difference between stress and true burnout

• Why high-functioning women are especially vulnerable

• The hidden impact of unpaid labor and mental load

• Why asking for help feels so hard

• How to begin healing when you feel completely depleted

• The role of community and vulnerability in recovery

  
  

  This conversation is honest, validating, and deeply reassuring for any woman who feels like she’s carrying too much for too long.If you’ve been running on empty — or know someone who is — this episode is one to share and try out Mel’s supportive community free for 30 days: The Aligned Woman Membership

  
  

  General close: Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In this solo episode of The Calm Collective, Colleen shares heartfelt reflections on the role of community during life’s hardest seasons, including the loss of her daughter, Ainslie, in 2018 and another challenging chapter in 2024.

Through honest storytelling, she explores what real support actually looks like—the people who show up quietly, consistently, and without needing the right words—and reminds listeners that true community isn’t about everyone, but about the right people at the right time.

Colleen also offers gentle encouragement and practical insight on building meaningful connections through vulnerability, intentionality, and mutual care, inviting listeners to take small steps toward creating the kind of community that can hold them through both grief and healing.

Please share with someone who has been there for you.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

Adult friendships aren’t failing, they’re being tested.

In this solo episode, Ashlee dives into why connection feels harder in your 30s and 40s, why some friendships quietly fall away, and why that doesn’t mean anything has gone wrong. Between family, work, kids’ schedules, and constant overstimulation, many of us are craving deeper connection… while feeling too exhausted to maintain it.

Ashlee unpacks:

• Why outgrowing friendships is often necessary (not selfish)
• How to tell the difference between acquaintances and true friends
• Why surface-level connection feels draining instead of fulfilling
• The role your nervous system plays in boundaries, clarity, and connection

She also introduces Regulate, her 6-week program designed to help you calm your nervous system, stop overgiving, and create relationships that actually feel supportive, not obligatory.

If you’ve ever thought “Why does friendship feel so hard now?” this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen in, then share it with someone who’s been on your heart.

In this episode, Ashlee and Colleen have an honest conversation about something so many women feel—but rarely say out loud: loneliness.

They explore why adult friendships can feel harder than ever in a hyper-connected, tech-driven world, and how social media often gives the illusion of connection without the depth of real community.

From parenting-centered friendships to introversion labels, busy schedules, and fear of vulnerability, they unpack the subtle ways we avoid building the connections we actually crave.

Ashlee and Colleen share personal stories, reflections on grief and life transitions, and practical ways to begin shifting from isolation to intentional community—without needing a massive social circle.

This episode is an invitation to take inventory of your relationships, redefine what community means to you, and take small, courageous steps toward deeper connection and support.

If you’ve been feeling disconnected, unseen, or longing for more meaningful relationships, you’re not alone—and this conversation is for you.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In this episode, Ashlee and Colleen sit down with Alex Long to talk about what it really looks like to align your life with your priorities—and continue evolving as you grow. Alex shares her powerful journey of leaving an abusive marriage, rebuilding her life, and redefining success beyond titles, roles, and external expectations.

This conversation explores why there’s no single breakthrough moment or magic solution, but rather an ongoing practice of self-honesty, recommitment, and alignment.

Together, they discuss letting go of old identities, setting clear priorities, celebrating small wins, and consistently choosing actions that reflect who you are becoming.

If you’re navigating change, craving more authenticity, or feeling called to evolve into the next version of yourself, this episode is a grounded reminder that meaningful growth happens one intentional choice at a time.

Follow Alex here: Alex Undefined

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In this episode, Colleen is talking about a very unsexy day in her life — the simple, mostly free habits that actually keep her feeling happy, energized, and yes, pooping daily.

She dives into morning sunlight, walking, protein at every meal, sitting down to eat, and small nervous system resets — the boring stuff that truly supports gut health, mental health, and hormone balance.

Ladies, if you’ve ever felt like you need all the fancy tools, biohacks, or trends to feel good, this episode is your reminder: you don’t. Foundations first, consistency matters, and simple rhythms are what make the real difference.

Tune in and discover why the unsexy habits are the secret to feeling good every day.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

“I know what I need to do… so why can’t I follow through?”

If you’ve ever asked yourself this question, this solo episode is for you. Ashlee unpacks the gap between awareness and action—why knowing isn’t the problem, and why implementation can feel so hard even when the answers are clear.

She explores the hidden layers of resistance that keep women stuck, including fear of change, self-worth blocks, nervous system dysregulation, and the subtle fear of outgrowing people or identities. Rather than pushing harder or adding more to your plate, Ashlee invites you to start smaller, calmer, and more intentionally, building self-trust through tiny, consistent actions.

This episode is a compassionate reminder that you don’t need more discipline—you need safety, support, and a regulated nervous system to create lasting change.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In this episode, Ashlee and Colleen dive into one of the most overlooked ingredients of successful goal-setting: consistency.

They unpack why motivation fades, how the all-or-nothing mindset keeps people stuck, and why showing up imperfectly still counts.

Through real-life examples—from fitness and meal planning to breathwork and self-care—they explore how small, sustainable actions create momentum over time.

This conversation is a reminder that consistency doesn’t mean perfection; it means having a plan, staying curious, and continuing even when it feels messy.

If you’ve ever set a goal with the best intentions only to fall off track, this episode will help you rethink consistency, build trust with yourself, and create habits that actually last.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In the Season 2 premiere, Ashlee and Colleen break down why so many women set the same goals year after year and what it really takes to finally move forward.

From fitness and business goals to creating more space in your overwhelmed schedule, they explore how to set specific, measurable, and meaningful intentions that actually stick.

You’ll learn why vague goals like “get in shape” keep you stuck, how limiting beliefs make you afraid to be specific, and why “doing less” is sometimes the most powerful goal you can set.

They share practical ways to apply SMART goals, create supportive habits, and build accountability that feels empowering, not punishing.

Ashlee and Colleen also highlight the importance of celebrating small wins, aligning goals with how you want to feel, and making consistent progress without perfection. If you’re ready to finally stop recycling your goals and start creating real momentum, this episode will help you step into the new year with clarity, confidence, and intention.

Want support? Join Ashlee's Free Goal Setting Workshop on January 13th at 12 (est): Join Here

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In our final episode of the season, Ashlee and Colleen slow things down and walk you through the power of year-end reflection before jumping into 2026 goal-setting. 

We explore what it really looks like to review the past year with gratitude—not judgment—by celebrating wins, learning from challenges, and noticing the habits and patterns that shaped the year. 

We also share our own reflection process, why aligning goals with how you want to feel matters more than checking boxes, and how to set yourself up for a more intentional year ahead.

Want your own year end reflection tool? DM us on IG to grab yours: Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In this powerful conversation, Ashlee and Colleen sit down with Kimberly Roy—visibility strategist and founder of Pitch With Kim—to explore what it really takes for women entrepreneurs to be seen, heard, and supported.

Kimberly shares how she helps women amplify their stories through authentic visibility, while breaking down the resistance, self-doubt, and old narratives that hold so many back.

Together, they dive into the journey of self-discovery, the role of nervous system regulation in leadership, the importance of aligning strategy with soul, and why confidence grows through small, consistent steps.

This episode is an invitation to embrace your voice, deepen self-trust, and allow yourself to be fully seen in life and business.

Grab Kim’s 4 Steps to Consistent Lead Generation: Download here

Connect with KimGeneral close: Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

In this holiday episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee dives into the real mental and emotional load mothers carry this time of year. From creating “holiday magic” to managing work, family, and endless expectations, she unpacks why so many women feel overwhelmed, overstimulated, and disconnected during a season that’s supposed to feel joyful.

Ashlee explores:

• The invisible holiday workload for working moms

• Letting go of traditions that no longer serve you

• Setting boundaries without guilt

• Designing an intentional, values-led holiday season

• Protecting your time, energy, and presence

• Choosing meaningful moments over perfection

If you’re craving a calmer, simpler, more aligned December—with more presence and less pressure—this episode is your permission slip.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

The holidays don’t have to leave you exhausted, bloated, or stressed. In this solo episode, Colleen shares how to savor the season without the holiday hangover — from simple, meaningful traditions with your family to my top self-care “non-negotiables” that keep your energy, mood, and sanity intact.

You’ll get permission to slow down, enjoy the little moments, and skip the holiday chaos.

✨ Grab easy weeknight holiday-friendly recipes here:

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

In this episode of The Calm Collective, the roles flip—Colleen interviews Ashlee to explore a question she gets all the time: “Are you really that calm?”

Ashlee shares the real story behind her calm—how she once lived in constant survival mode, overwhelmed, reactive, and rushing through life without truly feeling present. She explains that calmness isn’t about never feeling stressed; it’s about learning to regulate the nervous system so you can respond rather than react.

Together, they discuss:

• What calm actually means (and what it doesn’t)
• How chronic stress becomes a way of being
• Why breathwork is uncomfortable—and why that’s exactly why it works
• Building tolerance for calm and joy (not just chaos)
• How mindfulness changes communication, parenting, and relationships
• Simple practices to regulate in the moment (even in traffic or family gatherings!)
  

Ashlee reflects on her shift from searching for external solutions to doing the internal work that changed everything—and how this practice is available to anyone willing to meet themselves with compassion and consistency. This conversation is relatable, grounding, and a reminder that calm isn’t a personality trait—it’s a practice.

Ready to access your calm? Grab Ashlee’s Calm for the Holidays Audio Bundle on sale now for $21

Connect with us on Instagram: Ashlee & Colleen

In this episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee and Colleen sit down with Maurice Thibodeau, creator of The Life Inventory Assessment, to explore why so many of us feel misaligned—and what it really takes to create meaningful change.

Maurice shares how our lives reveal misalignment not through dramatic breaking points, but through subtle signs: loss of energy, chronic frustration, emotional exhaustion, and the quiet feeling that something’s “off.”

Together, we dive into how our subconscious attempts to keep us “safe” can actually keep us stuck—and how awareness is the first key to transformation.We discuss:

• Why people wait until crisis to seek support
  
• How life mapping provides clarity and direction
  
• The emotional weight women carry trying to “hold it all together”
  
• Releasing shame and judgment in the growth process
  
• Building trust with yourself and the professionals who guide you
  
• Why small aligned shifts create change across every area of life
  

Maurice also speaks to the importance of curiosity and acceptance—learning to meet yourself where you are while also being open to where you’re going.

This conversation is an invitation to pause, reflect, and ask: What would life feel like if I allowed myself to get the support I need?

Connect with Maurice

Are you a coach? Want to add this to your toolkit? Learn more here

Ready to explore your life? Take The Life Inventory Assessment with Ashlee → A 90-minute deep-dive into your life and priorities. This session includes a Life Inventory Assessment and a guided review of your life map. You will walk away with clear insight into where to focus your time, energy, and effort to maximize your impact and create a more intentional life.

Connect with us on Instagram: Ashlee & Colleen

In this solo episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee explores the transformative power of taking radical responsibility for your life.

Many of us wait for circumstances or others to change before pursuing personal growth—but true empowerment comes from owning your choices and actions.

Ashlee breaks down how shifting from a victim mindset to an empowered creator mindset can transform your life. She explains the difference between the drama triangle and the empowerment dynamic, showing how understanding your power of choice can help you live intentionally and align with what truly matters.

You’ll learn how to:

• Clarify your personal priorities and focus on what’s truly important
  
• Identify and move past limiting beliefs that keep you stuck
  
• Take inspired, courageous action to create lasting change
  
• Cultivate self-compassion and curiosity instead of judgment
  

Ashlee also shares tools, reflections, and a guided audio on radical responsibility and breathwork to support you on your personal growth journey. This episode is for anyone ready to stop waiting for life to “happen” to them and start creating a life they’re proud of—one conscious choice at a time.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: ⁠Ashlee⁠ & ⁠Colleen⁠

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

In this solo episode of The Calm Collective, Colleen dives deep into the powerful connection between the mind and the gut, and how it impacts mental health, hormones, immunity, and overall physical wellness.

Drawing from her work as a functional nutrition practitioner and clinical therapist, Colleen breaks down how chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma show up in the body—and why addressing them in isolation won’t lead to true healing.

She explores:

• How stress and fight-or-flight responses affect digestion, hormones, and immunity
  
• The three nervous system states and why feeling safe is essential for healing
  
• The gut-brain connection and why 90% of serotonin is made in the gut
  
• How nutrition, protein intake, and functional lab testing support mental and physical health
  
• Why chronic illness, hormonal imbalances, and mental health symptoms feed into each other
  

Colleen also shares practical insights for rebuilding your body and mind together, so you can finally feel safe, supported, and empowered on your healing journey.

Connect with us on Instagram - we love to hear your feedback: Ashlee & Colleen

And we encourage you to share this with one person you know who could benefit from this conversation.

In this inspiring episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee and Colleen sit down with Dr. Jennifer Schlueter, a certified trauma-informed hypnotherapist, to explore the profound connection between the mind and body in the healing process.

Dr. Jennifer shares her research on endometriosis and how hypnotherapy can be a powerful pathway to deeper healing and self-trust.

Together, they unpack what hypnotherapy really is, how it supports nervous system regulation, and why addressing stored emotions and subconscious patterns is essential for long-term well-being.

This conversation dives into:

• Understanding the mind-body connection in healing
• How hypnotherapy works and what to expect in a session
• The role of trauma in physical health challenges
• Building self-trust and reconnecting with your body
• Rediscovering joy and purpose through inner work
  

Tune in to learn how gentle subconscious healing can open the door to physical relief, emotional balance, and greater alignment with yourself.

Connect with Jennifer here:

The Psychological Root Causes of Endometriosis

subscribepage.io/endometriosisebook

Spiritual Hypnosis Training

https://mindyoursubconscious.com/spiritual-hypnosis-training

In this solo episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee invites you into a powerful gratitude practice—one that shifts the focus from external achievements to honoring the past versions of yourself who carried you here.

She shares the story of a transformative client session, where guided breathwork opened the door to deep appreciation for the resilience, strength, and choices that created today’s reality.

Ashlee also reflects on her own journey of moving through challenge and loss, and how gratitude for her former selves became a source of healing and growth.

This isn’t about comparing where you are to where you “should” be—it’s about recognizing that every version of you has had value, and every step has shaped your story.

In this episode, you’ll be guided to:

• Connect with past versions of yourself through gratitude
  

• See your growth and resilience from a new perspective
  
• Explore a breathwork practice to anchor gratitude into your daily life
  

Ashlee encourages you to try this practice, notice what comes up, and share your reflections with her on Instagram.

Connect with Ashlee & Colleen on the Gram!:

Ashlee & Colleen

In this episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee sits down with Colleen for an open and refreshing conversation about perimenopause—one of the most important yet often misunderstood transitions in a woman’s life.Together, they unpack:

• What perimenopause really is and when it begins
• The role of hormones, adrenal health, and stress in shaping your experience
• Why symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings aren’t “normal” (and what they actually signal)
• Foundational lifestyle practices—nutrition, movement, boundaries, and rest—that make all the difference
• How small, intentional changes now can set you up for a healthier, easier transition into menopause

This episode is a powerful reminder that perimenopause doesn’t have to be something we silently endure—it’s an opportunity to reclaim your health, energy, and boundaries.

Whether you’re in your late 30s, 40s, or already navigating the shift, this conversation will leave you feeling more informed, empowered, and supported.

Connect with us on Instagram: Ashlee & Colleen

In this episode, Ashlee and Colleen explore how your mindset shapes everything—from the way you handle challenges to the way you dream about what’s possible.

We unpack the difference between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset, and how your inner dialogue and self-reflection play a crucial role in personal transformation.

Together, we navigate the fears that often come with change, the resilience built through embracing disappointment, and the importance of self-trust when stepping into new possibilities.

Through real-life stories and practical tools, you’ll learn how to take small steps toward big dreams, reframe setbacks as opportunities, and build the foundation for lasting change.Connect with us on the gram: Ashlee & Colleen

In this powerful conversation, Ashlee and Colleen sit down with Kristina Hudson—occupational therapist, bestselling author, and coach—who helps women break free from toxic and narcissistic relationships.

Drawing from her own experience of surviving a traumatic divorce, Kristina shares how the cycle of narcissistic abuse impacts not only emotional well-being but also physical health through constant nervous system dysregulation.She introduces her RISE Method to help women recognize warning signs, understand the abuse cycle, and begin rebuilding self-trust one small, empowering choice at a time.

Kristina also highlights the importance of supportive communities, safe therapy, and daily rituals that restore balance and self-worth after leaving unhealthy relationships.

In this episode you’ll hear:

• The phases of narcissistic abuse and why “love bombing” isn’t love
  
• Warning signs of toxic patterns and how to spot them early
  
• How trauma bonds affect the nervous system and physical health
  
• The role of self-care, rest, and support systems in healing
  
• Practical ways to rebuild self-trust through small daily actions
  
• Why leaving a toxic relationship, though difficult, leads to freedom and a healthier future
  

• Kristina’s book Rise Up and Thrive (available on Amazon)
  
• Free quiz: Is Your Relationship Narcissistic?
  
• Kristina’s coaching program Message Me First
  
• Special offer for listeners: a 50-minute call with Kristina (normally 20 minutes)

If you’ve ever doubted yourself, felt stuck in a toxic dynamic, or struggled to rebuild after heartbreak, this episode will give you validation, hope, and tools for reclaiming your life.

Follow us on the Gram: Ashlee & Colleen

In this solo episode, Ashlee challenges the cultural narrative that rest must be earned or that slowing down is a sign of weakness.

Speaking directly to high-achieving women and leaders, she explores the misconceptions around rest, why so many resist it, and how reframing rest as a powerful productivity tool can change everything.

Ashlee shares her personal reflections and practical tips for weaving restful moments into busy days—helping the nervous system slow down, bringing clarity, and reducing mistakes. She highlights how true rest looks different for everyone, from naps to baking to simple silence, and why it’s essential to discover what feels genuinely restorative for you.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why rest is essential for high-performing women (not optional)
  
• Common myths and fears about slowing down
  
• How busyness can act as a coping mechanism
  
• Practical ways to integrate 1–5 minutes of rest into your day
  
• Why sleep is the foundation of true rest—and how to support it
  

• Experiment with different forms of rest to find what works for you
  
• Start small: schedule 1–5 minutes of intentional rest each day
  
• If you struggle to rest, DM Ashlee on Instagram for tools and support

Ashlee reminds us that rest isn’t indulgent—it’s the key to showing up with energy, clarity, and strength.

Connect with us on the Gram: Ashlee & Colleen

Ever wonder why you feel anxious, unmotivated, or “wired but tired” — even when you’re trying to do all the right things?

In this episode, I’m breaking down how amino acids are the building blocks of your neurotransmitters — the brain chemicals that influence your mood, focus, energy, and sense of calm. We’ll cover how supplements like 5-HTP, GABA, and L-Tyrosine can help refill your “empty buckets,” why gut health plays such a huge role in mental health, and how diet and lifestyle changes provide longer-lasting support than medications alone.

You’ll learn:

✨ Why amino acids are precursors to serotonin, dopamine, and GABA

✨ What happens when your neurotransmitter “buckets” run low

✨ How modern life (hello, social media dopamine hits!) is draining your brain chemistry

✨ The powerful role of the gut-brain connection in mood and energy

✨ Why food is the most underrated mood booster — and what to eat for steady energy & calm

Takeaway: You can’t heal your brain on an empty tank. Supplements can help in the short-term, but the real game-changers are food, gut health, and sustainable lifestyle shifts

Resources & Freebies

• Book a complimentary coaching call with me → Click here
  
• Download my free Breakfast Builder Guide → Click here
  

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Connect with us on the Gram: Ashlee & Colleen

In this honest conversation, Ashlee and Colleen unpack the common reasons women put off getting support—even when they know they need it. From waiting for the “perfect timing,” feeling guilty about investing in yourself, or fearing change (and even fearing no change), we shed light on the very real barriers that keep so many women stuck in cycles of stress, burnout, and self-doubt.

We explore the hidden cost of waiting, the ripple effects of not taking action, and why small shifts—when paired with support and accountability—can lead to powerful transformation. This episode is both a gentle reminder and a loving nudge that your future self is waiting for you.

 Inside the Episode:

– Why we avoid asking for or receiving support

– The illusion of “perfect timing”

– How guilt and fear hold us back

– The cost of waiting vs. the power of small shifts

– Why support + accountability = game changer

– What’s waiting for you on the other side: your future self

Whether you’re holding back because of fear, guilt, or uncertainty, this episode will inspire you to take the next step toward the life you truly want—because waiting rarely leads to change, but choosing yourself always does.

In this heartfelt guest episode, Ashlee and Colleen sit down with Kristi Simons—coach, podcast host, and intuitive guide—to explore the power of living in alignment with your inner wisdom.

Together, they dive into the journey of learning to trust your intuition, how limiting beliefs and negative self-talk disconnect us from our truth, and the transformation that happens when you start choosing yourself consistently.

Kristi shares her own soul-led story of personal growth through motherhood, sobriety, and running—and how those experiences helped her reconnect with freedom, emotional resilience, and spiritual self-trust.

They also discuss the challenges of emotional resistance, overcoming fear, and learning how to actually listen to what your soul is trying to tell you.

This episode is an invitation to put yourself back on the calendar, soften self-doubt, and embrace a life of alignment.

Inside the Episode:

– What keeps women disconnected from their intuition

– Kristi’s personal story of growth and trusting her soul path – Negative self-talk, limiting beliefs & the power of positive reprogramming

– Overcoming emotional resistance and fear of failure

– Making self-care a non-negotiable part of your growth

– Why aligning with your inner truth matters more than external validation

– Tools to begin reconnecting with yourself

Next Steps for You:

Try tuning into your thoughts today—notice how you speak to yourself

Put you on your calendar for intentional self-check-ins

Listen to Kristi’s podcast: Intuition for Women and Teens

Reach out to Kristi on Instagram for questions or connection

Download her free Self-Love Meditation via her website https://kristisimonscoaching.com/download 

Whether you're in a season of change, growth, or simply seeking clarity—this episode will remind you that your intuition is a powerful compass, and you already have what you need to begin.

Connect with us on Instagram: Ashlee & Colleen

In this solo episode, Ashlee shares how she turned her rushed, reactive mornings into a grounding and nourishing ritual that changed her energy, mindset, and even her relationships.

If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t have time for a morning routine,” this episode will meet you where you are—and inspire a shift.

Ashlee walks you through the evolution of her own practice—from resistance to ritual—and why even 15 intentional minutes can bring more ease and clarity to your entire day.

She also introduces her free Morning Practice Guide (linked in the show notes), which includes a breathwork audio and planner to help you get started.

Ready to reset your mornings?

• Download the Morning Practice Guide + Breathwork Audio
  

• Join Ashlee live for her FREE 5-Day Morning Practice on Zoom, happening Sept 8–12 @ 9:30–10:00 AM EST
  Can't make it live? Replays will be available!
  

• Share the love: Invite a friend who could use more calm and connection in their mornings too.
  

Whether you’re just starting or need a gentle reset, this episode is your invitation to begin your day with intention—and actually look forward to it.

In this solo episode with Colleen, we’re diving into the gut–mood–energy connection and the two functional tools she swears by in practice.

If you’ve been feeling constantly tired, anxious, foggy, or bloated—and your labs keep coming back “normal”—this episode is for you.

Colleen breaks down why your gut might be the missing piece behind your symptoms, and how these two tests can finally give you real answers.

You’ll learn:

• How your gut impacts seotonin, dopamine, and your emotional healing
• What stress actually does to your digestion and energy
• The two poerful tools Colleen uses in her practice to get real answers
• How mineral balance, adrenal health and gut health all work together
• Simple, doable steps you can take right now to support your gut

This episode is filled with the truth and clarity you’ve been craving if you're burnt out, bloated, and ready to feel like yourself again.

Feel like your energy is gone and never coming back?

Get Colleen's FREE Reclaim Your Energy Guide here ( to get real actionable steps you can take today tostart getting your energy back!

Ready for support on your health journey? Schedule a FREE clarity call with Colleen to dive into your health concerns and goals and what healing looks likefor you.

In this episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee and Colleen have a real and relatable conversation about stress—what triggers it, how it shows up, and the tools we lean on when life feels like a lot.

We normalize the reality that stress is ongoing—it’s not about eliminating it, but learning how to recognize it sooner and support ourselves through it with more intention and compassion.

We each share our go-to tools and practices—from breathwork and movement to journaling and mindset shifts—and offer simple ways you can start using these strategies in your own life.

What You’ll Learn:
- Common causes of stress
- Breathwork as a nervous system reset
- Journaling to process and release emotional clutter
- Movement as medicine
- Why awareness is your most powerful tool
- How to support yourself before you hit burnout

This episode is your reminder that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed—but you don’t have to stay there. You have tools. You have support. And you can move through it with more ease.

Resources Mentioned:

Let’s face the chaos together—with curiosity, breath, and a few powerful tools in our back pocket.

In this solo episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee dives into what it really means to become the main character of your own life—instead of drifting through your days like a Non-Player Character (NPC).

She explores why so many of us end up feeling like background characters in our own story, from conditioning and expectations to patterns of numbing and disconnection. Ashlee shares practical, compassionate ways to start stepping back into your power and living with intention.

What You’ll Learn:
- Why and how we slip into NPC mode
- The power of intention-setting and reflection to reclaim your story
- How to recognize when you’re numbing out—and what to do instead
- The importance of putting yourself on your calendar
- How to create your “joy list” to reconnect with what lights you up

This episode is your invitation to wake up from autopilot and start living your life with purpose, presence, and joy—because you are the only one who can play your role.

Connect with us: Ashlee & Colleen

Take some time for you with this grounding breathwork audio: Download here

Feeling exhausted but wired? Crashing every afternoon? Getting hangry when you're hungry? Your symptoms aren't character flaws - they're your body's way of telling you something important about your cortisol and blood sugar balance.

In this solo episode, Colleen is breaking down the hidden connection between what you eat and how you feel.

You'll discover why that 3 PM energy crash happens, what's really going on when you feel anxious out of nowhere, and how to use nutrition to stabilize your energy and mood naturally.

What you will learn:

✨ The cortisol-blood sugar connection - Why these two systems are intimately linked and how they affect every aspect of how you feel

✨ The real reason you're tired but wired - How blood sugar imbalances trigger stress hormones that leave you exhausted yet unable to relax

✨ Why skipping meals backfires - How under-eating or irregular eating creates chronic cortisol elevation

✨ The mood-food connection - Why you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or irritable when hungry (it's not just being "hangry")

✨ Foods that stabilize vs. sabotage - Specific nutrition strategies to keep your blood sugar and cortisol in their happy place

✨ How to build the perfect plate - The exact macronutrient balance that supports stable energy and calm mood all day long

Key Takeaways:Your afternoon energy crashes aren't normal - they're blood sugar crashes triggering cortisol spikes 

Feeling anxious when hungry is a physiological stress response, not a personal weakness
Every meal should include protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs for optimal hormonal balance 

Consistent meal timing is just as important as what you eat 

When you support stable blood sugar, you're supporting your entire nervous system

This episode is perfect for you if you're tired of feeling like you're at the mercy of your energy levels and mood swings. It's time to work WITH your body's natural systems instead of against them.

Resources Mentioned:

Protein Powder: Equip Prime Protein - my go-to for easy, clean protein to stabilize blood sugar:  https://www.equipfoods.com/COLLEEN15Ready for More? Join Colleen's Fatigue to Flourish group coaching program for the complete system to transform yourenergy and calm your nervous system: https://fatiguetoflourish.my.canva.site/fatigue-to-flourish

Connect with us on Instagram: Ashlee & Colleen

In this episode of The Calm Collective, Ashlee and Colleen sit down for an honest conversation about consistency especially during summer when routines often shift.

We explore why staying consistent with your habits is soimportant for maintaining momentum in your health and wellness journey. We chat about ditching excuses, letting go of the all-or-nothing mindset, and share our own non-negotiables that help us stay grounded and feeling good, no matter what the season brings.

You’ll also hear us discuss:
☀️ Why perfection isn’t required for progress
☀️ How boundaries help you create capacity (and maintain consistency)
☀️ The importance of knowing what actually supports you
☀️ Why taking a break from healthy habits can set you back
☀️ Simple ways to keep your routines flexible yet strong this summer

 This episode is your reminder that consistency isn’t about rigidity—it’s about choosing what feels good and supportive for you, over and over again.

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