We all have an inner voice. But what if the voice inside your head is the one lying to you the most?
In our latest episode of the foorum Insider podcast, I sat down with Dr. Ashley Smith, a licensed psychologist, TEDx speaker, and author of The Way I See It — to unpack how our thoughts and internal narratives can distort reality and influence mental health.
Drawing on her personal experiences and clinical expertise, Dr. Smith shares why your thoughts aren’t always facts, how stigma still shapes the mental health conversation, and why emotional freedom often begins with reframing the stories we tell ourselves. 
“The way you see it isn’t the only way,” she reminds us. And sometimes, that small realization can be the catalyst for lasting change.
We dive deep into:
- The power of perception and how it shapes mental well-being
- Why your brain’s fear response is often trying to protect you but might be misfiring
- How toxic positivity can silence real emotional struggles
- Practical tools for reframing harmful thought patterns
- The difference between acknowledging your feelings and being ruled by them
Dr. Smith speaks candidly about overcoming personal adversity and the long road to self-compassion. Her insights are equal parts honest and hopeful, offering a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t start with fixing your life, it starts with how you see it.
Whether you’re facing anxiety, working through shame, or trying to build a better relationship with yourself, this conversation is a must-listen.
🎧 Listen now:
