Ep 128. Sobriety, Spirit & Showing Up Fully: Sheridan Rose Shaw on Leading with HeartEp 128. Sobriety, Spirit & Showing Up Fully: Sheridan Rose Shaw on Leading with Heart
Behind The Smile with Ash Butterss
Ash Butterss talks with Sheridan Rose Shaw about sobriety, recovery, and leading with heart in hairdressing. Discover her inspiring journey and insights.
1:20:19•22 Jun 2025
Ep 128. Sobriety, Spirit & Showing Up Fully: Sheridan Rose Shaw on Leading with Heart
Episode Overview
- Sheridan's journey to sobriety and recovery.
- The transformative power of breathwork.
- Challenges and triumphs of parenting during recovery.
- Living authentically and showing up fully.
- Sheridan's leadership and impact in the hairdressing industry.
“When we recover loudly, no one needs suffer in silence.”
In this captivating episode of 'Behind The Smile,' host Ash Butterss welcomes Sheridan Rose Shaw, an award-winning creative director in the hairdressing industry. Sheridan shares her compelling journey of recovering from addiction, embracing sobriety, and leading with heart. Sheridan's name is synonymous with creativity and excellence, having transformed Melbourne's inner-west hairdressing scene and won numerous awards, including the Most Innovative Business of the Year.
Her journey to sobriety began 12 years ago, channeling her addictive energies into creativity and business pursuits. Sheridan speaks candidly about her struggles with addiction and mental health, including a period of hospitalization in the psych ward. A significant part of her recovery has been the practice of breathwork, which Sheridan describes as transformative. She discusses the importance of living authentically and showing up fully in all aspects of life, including parenting while navigating personal healing.
Sheridan emphasizes the courage it takes to lead with vulnerability and purpose, sharing openly her experiences and challenges. Sheridan's leadership extends beyond her salon, Mama West, which she describes not just as a business, but a movement. She is committed to nurturing the next generation of hairdressers, creating an inclusive and bold future in the industry. Her motto, 'life's too short for shithair,' underscores her dedication to elevating the client experience and mentoring her team.
Throughout the conversation, Ash and Sheridan explore what it means to live a life beyond mere sobriety, navigating the complexities of recovery while leading a fulfilling life. Sheridan's passion for her work, her community, and her personal growth shines through as she shares insights and experiences from her remarkable journey.

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