Ep 142. Why Outward Success Will Never Be Enough, with Nick Jonsson
Episode Description
In this episode, we’re joined by Nick Jonsson, a global keynote speaker and mental health advocate. Nick shares his inspiring journey from reaching the heights of corporate success to his journey of personal recovery, discussing the challenges of hitting rock bottom and getting sober, along with balancing travel, work, and family life. He opens up about his hidden struggles behind his smile, the isolation that comes with success, losing a close friend to suicide and the physical manifestations of stress. Nick emphasises the importance of surrendering to change, building connections, and sharing stories to combat loneliness. He also talks passionately about the role of fitness in his recovery.
This episode offers a profound look at vulnerability, resilience, and the transformative power of connection in the pursuit of mental and emotional well-being.
The episode highlights are:
00:00 Introduction to Nick Jonsson's Journey
02:52 The Importance of Routine in Recovery
05:43 Behind the Smile: The Struggle with Executive Loneliness
08:25 The Downward Spiral: From Success to Isolation
11:31 The Roots of Anxious Overachievement
14:12 The Impact of Drinking Culture on Mental Health
16:57 Hitting Rock Bottom: The Psychosomatic Illness
19:55 The Turning Point: Finding Hope and Connection
23:44 The Power of Surrender
28:33 Building Connections in Recovery
30:24 Honoring Simon: A Catalyst for Change
35:35 Understanding Smiling Depression
39:09 The Journey of Self-Discovery
42:51 Encouraging Vulnerability in Men
46:37 Fitness as a Key to Recovery
49:03 Living Authentically: Non-Negotiables for Life
You can connect with Nick through:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nick-jonsson
YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/NickJonsson
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jonssonnick
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/jonsson.nick
Follow and connect with Ash on:
Instagram @ashbutterss
Join Ash on retreat in Bali in 2026! All the details can be found at https://www.ashbutterss.com/bali-retreat-2026.
Watch Ash’s TEDx Talk here!
#behindthesmilewithashbutterss #recoveryjourney #lonliness #mentalhealthmatters #depression #resilience #breakthestigma #vulnerability #mensmentalhealth #recoveryispossible