Ambitious But Exhausted with Ash Hartney

Ash Hartney
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For ambitious women who are running a business, a household, and on empty.I'm Ash Hartney. I've helped build multiple businesses to 7 and 8 figures while raising a family, and I did most of it burnt out before I worked out there was another way.This channel is about the part nobody teaches you: how to keep building without running yourself into the ground. Stress. Burnout. Guilt. Releasing control. Money worry. Doing the school run and a client call in the same hour. The stuff you're carrying on your own because nobody around you seems to get it.You'll find:• Solo episodes on burnout, stress and running a business without losing yourself• Ambitious but Exhausted Podcast, honest conversations with women in business and wellness• Behind the scenes at The Bathhouse, our wellness venue in Douglas Park, SydneyNew episodes every week.

  1. 6d ago

    Are Limiting Beliefs Stopping You From Reaching the Next Level in Business?

    Need a place to pause, reset, and reconnect with yourself? Book your Bathhouse experience: https://thebathhouse.try.be/ In this episode of the Ambitious but Exhausted Podcast, Ash  names the four limiting beliefs that quietly keep ambitious women overworked, stuck, and disconnected from the success they have already built. She shares practical questions to challenge each belief, explains how they show up in a growing business, and offers a healthier definition of success that is built on alignment, gratitude, contribution, and freedom. Ash dives into: ◼️ Why working harder is not always the answer to business growth ◼️ The hustle belief that says you must do more to have more ◼️ How three needle-moving priorities can replace an overwhelming to-do list ◼️ Why strong leaders focus on delegation, accountability, and the highest-value work ◼️ The control belief that makes founders feel they must do everything themselves ◼️ How to identify the work you should own and the work you should delegate ◼️ Why systems, clear roles, and training create more freedom for founders ◼️ The permission belief behind “I’m not ready yet” ◼️ How fear of rejection can stop you from pitching the idea that could change your business ◼️ Why waiting for a milestone will not make you feel successful ◼️ How moving goalposts create a constant feeling of not being enough ◼️ Why contribution, progress, and alignment are valid measures of success ◼️ How past setbacks can become the lessons that strengthen your next chapter ◼️ A practical exercise for replacing an old belief with a more useful one 00:00:00 The four beliefs keeping ambitious women stuck 00:00:43 What success and financial freedom really mean to Ash 00:01:36 Belief one: if I want more, I need to do more 00:02:22 How to identify the three priorities that move the needle 00:03:19 Why long to-do lists do not always grow a business 00:04:04 Delegation, organisation, and leadership as growth skills 00:04:46 Belief two: no one will do it as well as me 00:05:39 How to release control and let your team learn 00:06:34 Finding the work you are best positioned to do 00:07:29 How systems and role clarity create founder freedom 00:08:15 Belief three: I’m not ready yet 00:09:09 Why pitching the scary idea matters more than waiting 00:10:06 Belief four: I’ll feel successful when I get there 00:11:17 Why success is not a number, title, or milestone 00:12:17 The dusty award submission that changed Ash’s perspective 00:13:41 How to see business setbacks as lessons, not failure 00:14:27 The new-belief exercise to practice every day Let's Connect: Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

  2. Aug 26

    My Gut Told Me Not To Hire Her In The Interview

    Ready to reset and reconnect? Book your experience at The Bathhouse: https://thebathhouse.try.be/ In this episode of the Ambitious but Exhausted Podcast, Ash shares the business mistake that nearly cost her family everything: ignoring her gut about a manager, allowing the wrong culture to spread, and then making decisions from overwhelm instead of clarity. Ash explains why bad hires are usually not a screening problem but an override problem, how values alignment protects a team, and the hiring process she now uses to build a culture that supports both the business and the people inside it. Ash dives into: ◼️ Why your gut is often the first warning sign in a bad hire ◼️ How hiring someone who looks right on paper can still damage a business ◼️ The $250,000 second-location decision that became Ash’s biggest lesson ◼️ How a toxic team culture can quietly grow behind a founder’s back ◼️ Why ignoring small operational issues creates bigger financial consequences ◼️ What Ash learned after discovering a private team group criticising her and the business ◼️ Why firing an entire team can sometimes be the only way to protect the culture ◼️ How overwhelm, betrayal, and stress can lead to worse business decisions ◼️ The legal and financial fallout of walking away from a commercial lease ◼️ Why the right team can help a founder rebuild after a major setback ◼️ How values alignment improves communication, loyalty, and performance ◼️ Why a values exercise can reveal who is truly aligned with your business ◼️ How paid trial shifts show you what an interview cannot ◼️ Why letting your existing team help choose new hires protects culture ◼️ How strong brand culture creates freedom, flexibility, and better customer experiences 00:00:00 The bad hire Ash knew was wrong in the first ten minutes 00:00:56 The $250,000 second-location decision 00:01:50 Why the manager looked perfect on paper but felt wrong 00:03:12 Discovering the private Facebook group and a toxic team culture 00:04:14 Firing the whole team and trying to rebuild the business 00:05:34 Cash issues, customer complaints, and the cost of overwhelm 00:07:13 Walking away from the lease and nearly losing everything 00:09:19 Rebuilding through hard work and the right team 00:10:26 Why values alignment matters more than a perfect CV 00:12:12 How Ash built a stronger culture at The Bathhouse 00:13:46 Why paid trial shifts reveal what interviews hide 00:15:18 Letting your team help choose the right people 00:16:07 Why culture is the glue that holds a business together 00:16:39 How brand culture creates freedom for a founder Let's Connect: Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

  3. Aug 19

    Why Putting Yourself Last Is Costing You Everything

    If you are running on empty and need space to reset, recharge, and reconnect with yourself, book your Bathhouse experience here: https://thebathhouse.try.be/  In the first episode of the Ambitious but Exhausted Podcast, Ash shares the personal health crisis that forced her to confront the cost of putting herself last, and why burnout often shows up in a business long before it shows up in the body. She breaks down the three warning signs she missed, how stress, guilt, and emotional overwhelm affected her finances, team, and relationship, and the practical tools that helped her reconnect with her health, clarity, and purpose. Ash dives into: ◼️ Why putting your business, family, and everyone else first eventually catches up with you ◼️ The personal spiral that led Ash to a life-threatening health wake-up call ◼️ Why running on empty can affect your business long before you recognise it physically ◼️ How an emotionally unregulated leader can see stress show up in cash flow ◼️ Why team culture and dynamics shift when a founder is no longer truly present ◼️ How unresolved stress can spill into your closest relationships ◼️ Why every founder needs a business that can continue operating without them ◼️ How daily coping habits can quietly make stress worse over time ◼️ Why yoga, breathwork, and quiet reflection became key parts of Ash’s recovery ◼️ How guilt and the belief that you are “not enough” can block growth as a woman and leader ◼️ Why journalling and time away can reconnect you with your most valuable ideas ◼️ How to slow down, reconnect with your why, and stop being so hard on yourself 00:00:00 The real cost of putting yourself last 00:00:48 How Ash reached breaking point in life and business 00:01:54 The health crisis that became a serious wake-up call 00:04:46 Surgery complications, fear, and the long recovery 00:06:31 Why your business needs to run without you 00:07:52 What running on empty was really costing Ash 00:08:24 The first business warning sign: cash flow 00:09:19 The second warning sign: team culture and leadership 00:10:19 The third warning sign: relationships and emotional wellbeing 00:11:54 Yoga, breathwork, and reducing alcohol as recovery tools 00:13:19 Guilt, self-worth, and the subconscious belief of not being enough 00:14:28 Why quiet space, journalling, and travel create clarity 00:15:34 Ash’s message for women who feel overwhelmed and stuck 00:16:22 Reconnecting with your why in a world of constant noise Let's Connect: Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

  4. 04/06/2025

    Episode 29 - From Laser Clinics to Luxury Fashion: Fergil Mestanov on Building Brands with Purpose

    In this episode of Poolside Perspectives, we sit down with Fergil Mestanov, seasoned beauty industry leader, business mentor, and mum of two, whose 26-year career has spanned everything from launching high-performing skin care clinics, to now leading the charge in luxury fashion retail. Fergil shares her inspiring journey of entrepreneurship, motherhood, and finding balance after burnout. With a no-fluff approach to business, she opens up about the realities of leadership, what really drives client loyalty, and why taking time out was the best decision she ever made. Listen in for more on:  1:15 – How Fergil got her start and grew a 7-day-a-week clinic empire  4:40 – Life after loss, burnout, and making the bold decision to step away  7:45 – The best business advice that’s guided her for 26 years  10:00 – How to take emotion out of tough conversations and lead with clarity  14:25 – 2025 marketing trends: real people, real stories, real impact  22:15 – Her biggest personal and professional challenge—and how she came through it This episode is filled with wisdom, relatability, and that refreshing real talk every woman in business needs to hear! Fergil’s Links: Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/fergil_business_consultant Let's Connect: Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

  5. 03/30/2025

    Episode 28 - From Style Ruts to Confidence Boosts: Jane Mow on Transforming Your Wardrobe and Mindset

    In this episode of Poolside Perspectives, we sit down with Jane Mow, globally recognized Personal Brand Stylist and Style Coach, who helps female leaders and entrepreneurs elevate their image with intentional style. With 17 years of experience working with CEOs, keynote speakers, and high-achieving professionals, Jane knows firsthand how aligning your wardrobe with your personal brand can open doors to new opportunities. From her early days in the fashion industry to leading creative direction for luxury brands and styling television personalities, Jane’s journey has been driven by a passion for transformation—helping women step into their confidence through what they wear. As the founder of What You Wear Is Your Business Card, she teaches women how to build a wardrobe that reflects their identity and positions them for success. Listen in for more on: 1:30 – Where Jane’s journey started7:00 – Overcoming self-doubt and limiting beliefs in personal branding9:00 – Navigating career shifts and embracing change12:45 – The role of determination and alignment in personal growth20:00 – Style tips for mums who want to feel good and dress for success27:30 – How to start building a wardrobe that works for you34:00 – Why creating a style archive can be a game-changerGet ready to refine your style, boost your confidence, and show up as the expert you are! Don’t forget to show your support by rating, reviewing and sharing this podcast! Jane’s Links Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/janemowstylist Website- https://janemow.com LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/janemow?originalSubdomain=au Let's Connect: Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

  6. 03/23/2025

    Episode 27 - Building Unforgettable Client Experiences: Insights from 30 Years in Business with Michelle Pascoe

    In this episode of Poolside Perspectives, we sit down with Michelle Pascoe, founder of Optimum Operating Procedures and Services (OOPS) and one of Australia’s leading voices in leadership development and customer experience. From her humble beginnings on a turkey farm in regional Australia to building a thriving training and research business, Michelle’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unlocking untapped potential. With over 30 years of experience, Michelle works closely with organizations to foster positive workplace cultures, navigate generational diversity, and elevate customer service standards. She’s passionate about helping individuals see the possibilities within themselves and create a life of their own choosing. Listen in for more on: 2:00 – Michelle’s sharing her story. 7:45 – How to get your team on board and drive alignment.13:30 – Leading across generations: Bridging the gaps in workplace dynamics.26:00 – The future of AI in business and what leaders need to know.33:00 – Overcoming adversity: The toughest challenge Michelle has faced in business.If you’re ready to transform your leadership approach, embrace innovation, and create lasting impact, this episode is for you! Michelle’s Links: Website: https://www.michellepascoe.com/ Podcast “Customer Retention Revolution”- https://open.spotify.com/show/587NtMf341AKPX26R53TIW Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/michelle.pascoe/ Let's Connect: Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

  7. 03/16/2025

    Episode 26 - Turning Life’s Sh*t Shows into Gold: Lessons from Heidi Anderson

    In this episode of Poolside Perspectives, we sit down with Heidi Anderson, bestselling author, confidence coach, and former top-rating radio presenter, on a mission to help others break free from self-doubt and step into their power. Known for her raw honesty and fearless approach, Heidi first made waves in 2016 when she opened up about her battle with anxiety live on air, sparking a movement of empowerment and authenticity. With two decades of media experience, Heidi now teaches women how to...

  8. 03/09/2025

    Episode 25 - From Fear to Freedom: Designing a Life and Business You Love with Angela Dickson

    In this episode, we sit down with Angela Dickson, Founder of Beauty Business Co and social media educator behind Beauty Boss Pro. Angela is on a mission to empower BeautyPreneurs to unlock their full potential, master social marketing, and confidently build purpose-driven businesses that fuel their dream lives. With her wealth of industry knowledge and passion for helping entrepreneurs show up authentically online, Angela shares invaluable insights on navigating social media trends, overcoming self-doubt, and creating meaningful connections in the beauty space. Whether you’re looking to elevate your online presence, step past the fear of judgment, or gain inspiration from transformative experiences, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Listen in for more on:  3:00 – Angela’s journey: How she got started in the beauty industry.  14:30 – Social media shifts: What’s trending in 2025?  19:15 – Overcoming the fear of posting and feeling judged.  24:30 – The power of retreats: A workshop that changed everything.  30:00 – Angela’s must-read book recommendations. If you’re ready to level up your beauty business, show up with confidence, and embrace social media as a tool for success, this episode is for you! Angela’s Links: Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/beautybusinessco_ Website- https://www.beautybusinessco.com Let's Connect: Website: https://www.thebathhouse.com.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashhartney https://www.instagram.com/the_bathhouse_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hartney-609a1911a TIktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_bathhouse_

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About

For ambitious women who are running a business, a household, and on empty.I'm Ash Hartney. I've helped build multiple businesses to 7 and 8 figures while raising a family, and I did most of it burnt out before I worked out there was another way.This channel is about the part nobody teaches you: how to keep building without running yourself into the ground. Stress. Burnout. Guilt. Releasing control. Money worry. Doing the school run and a client call in the same hour. The stuff you're carrying on your own because nobody around you seems to get it.You'll find:• Solo episodes on burnout, stress and running a business without losing yourself• Ambitious but Exhausted Podcast, honest conversations with women in business and wellness• Behind the scenes at The Bathhouse, our wellness venue in Douglas Park, SydneyNew episodes every week.

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