Great Company with Jamie Laing – Episode Summary

Episode Title: ASHLEY ROBERTS: BEING IN THE PUSSYCAT DOLLS ALMOST KILLED ME
Release Date: July 15, 2025
Host: Jamie Laing
Guest: Ashley Roberts
Producer: Jampot Productions

Introduction

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Great Company with Jamie Laing, host Jamie welcomes Ashley Roberts, a former member of the renowned Pussycat Dolls and a close friend. Ashley joins the conversation to delve deep into her journey from the heights of fame to overcoming profound personal challenges through breath work—a practice she has extensively written about in her upcoming book.

Ashley’s Journey with the Pussycat Dolls

Ashley begins by reflecting on her time with the Pussycat Dolls, drawing parallels between the rigorous demands of the dance group and the intense nature of competitive shows like Strictly. She shares, "[03:43] I've danced with snakes and I'm so fearful of those things that that felt pretty," highlighting the juxtaposition of her vibrant on-stage persona with the internal struggles she faced.

Despite the high-pressure environment, Ashley emphasizes the joy and fulfillment she derived from dancing. "[07:52] Dancing to me was just like I could escape and go to another realm," she explains, illustrating how dance served as her sanctuary amidst chaos.

Personal Struggles and Mental Health

The conversation takes a poignant turn as Ashley opens up about the tragic loss of her father to suicide and the ongoing mental health battles within her family. "[27:41] I lost my father to suicide, which was really challenging and really difficult," she shares, providing listeners with a raw and honest portrayal of her emotional landscape.

Ashley discusses the profound impact of grief and loss on her life, noting, "[37:26] I was very aware that I was coming into the world to break the cycle of what was going on throughout my family." This awareness fueled her determination to find healing and solace through alternative practices.

Introduction to Breath Work

Ashley introduces the concept of breath work, explaining how it became a pivotal tool in her healing process. She recounts her transformative experience at a retreat in Bali, where she first encountered breath work and Kundalini yoga. "[21:36] It was so relaxing and calm and connected to myself. I can't even remember when," Ashley reflects.

Together with Jamie and Jemima, Ashley leads a brief breath work session, demonstrating the "[12:55] conscious breath, a two-part breath" technique. This interactive segment not only engages listeners but also serves as a practical illustration of the techniques Ashley advocates in her book.

The Science and Benefits of Breath Work

Ashley delves into the scientific underpinnings of breath work, explaining its effects on the autonomic nervous system. "[14:43] By stimulating that, we activate our parasympathetic nervous system, which is the part of the nervous system that says it's time to chill out," she elucidates. She further discusses the significance of the vagus nerve in promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Jamie adds his personal insights, sharing his own experiences with therapies like EMDR and acknowledging the profound impact of simple practices like breath work. "[19:08] It's insane. And the thing which I just find so wild is that there's so much Western medicine out there, but actually, the cheapest things in life, doing breath work, going on a run, eating healthy, connecting with friends, that's what really helps us."

Emotional Vulnerability and Healing

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to emotional vulnerability. Ashley narrates the emotional challenges she faced while writing her book, culminating in powerful moments of reflection and catharsis. "[24:38] I was scared to do this book, like, I'm like, who am I to write a book," she admits, showcasing her journey from fear to empowerment.

Jamie reciprocates the vulnerability, sharing his own struggles with anxiety and the transformative power of therapy. "[46:20] This is authentic, real talk," he emphasizes, reinforcing the episode's theme of openness and healing.

Impact and Feedback

Ashley shares inspiring anecdotes about how her breath work practices have positively influenced those around her. "[25:10] She sat him down and she's like, Ashley, you're already impacting people and helping people," she recounts the moment her mother used her techniques to help her stepfather calm down, underscoring the real-world applicability and effectiveness of her methods.

Reflections on Relationships and Personal Growth

The conversation transitions to Ashley's perspectives on relationships, highlighting the importance of positivity and emotional intelligence. "[55:13] I love being positive. I love that," Ashley declares, discussing how breath work has enhanced her ability to maintain healthy, supportive relationships.

Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

As the episode concludes, both Jamie and Ashley express their commitment to continued personal growth and the spread of breath work practices. Ashley looks forward to publishing her book and hopes to inspire others to embrace these techniques for their well-being.

Jamie enthusiastically endorses Ashley's work, stating, "[59:30] I am so proud of you on that book, really, honestly, because I can feel it on you, and it's amazing and incredible." This mutual respect and shared vulnerability culminate in a heartfelt close to an episode rich with emotional depth and actionable insights.

Notable Quotes

• Ashley Roberts [12:03]: "It's fucking free. You just do it anywhere, even in the car."
• Jamie Laing [15:02]: "The moment you say you don't have time to meditate or do breath work is the time that you need to do it."
• Ashley Roberts [27:41]: "I lost my father to suicide, which was really challenging and really difficult."
• Jamie Laing [46:06]: "None of us have it figured out. We're all just trying."
• Ashley Roberts [58:25]: "Feel the fear and do it anyways."

Conclusion

This episode of Great Company offers a profound exploration of Ashley Roberts' personal and professional journey, intertwined with practical guidance on breath work and mental health. Through candid conversations and shared vulnerabilities, listeners are not only inspired by Ashley's resilience but also equipped with tangible tools to navigate their own emotional landscapes. Jamie Laing's empathetic hosting further enriches the dialogue, making this episode a memorable and impactful listen.