This week, Ash sits down with Alisha Burns, founder of Solo Mum Society, to talk about the deeply personal road that led her to motherhood on her own terms. Alisha shares the heartbreak of infertility, the emotional weight of hidden struggles, and the quiet strength it took to move through a life that often looked fine from the outside while feeling very different underneath.
She opens up about the role alcohol played in her life, the pressure of social expectations, and the long process of learning to trust herself again. Ash and Alisha explore what it means to choose donor conception, to step into solo motherhood by choice, and to build a life that feels honest, intentional, and aligned with who you really are.
Throughout the conversation, Alisha reflects on the changing shape of family, the power of community support, and the liberation that can come from letting go of the version of life you thought you were meant to have. At its heart, this episode is about grief, growth, and the courage to create a future rooted in authenticity, independence, and love.
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses pregnancy loss.
Episode chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Alicia Burns and Her Journey
03:01 Navigating Motherhood and Business
06:01 Hiding Behind a Smile: Alicia's Photo Reflection
09:11 Infertility Struggles and Emotional Toll
12:09 The Impact of Alcohol on Coping Mechanisms
15:04 The End of a Marriage and New Beginnings
17:58 Finding Strength in Adversity
20:53 The Journey to Motherhood: Donor Conception
23:48 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change
30:45 The Journey of Single Motherhood
32:08 Navigating Isolation and Connection
34:29 The Impact of Alcohol Culture
38:52 Realizations and Transformations
43:35 Embracing Independence and Self-Discovery
46:25 The Changing Landscape of Family Dynamics
49:54 Empowerment Through Intentional Choices
52:46 Building Community and Support
54:40 Non-Negotiables for a Fulfilling Life
Website - www.solomumsociety.com
Instagram - @noneedforprincecharming
Upcoming Workshops:
The Reconnection Ritual | June 21st | Buy Tickets Here
Join Ash on retreat in 2026!
Rest and Renew Holistic Retreat in Bali | August 2026
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Instagram @ashbutterss
TikTok @behindthesmilewithashb
Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here!
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