What if the smile they see… hides the truth you carry?

Behind the Smile is a book for every man (and every person) who’s ever said “I’m fine” while silently fighting their own battles.

It’s time to unmask the truth — and reclaim the strength hidden beneath it.

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About the Book

Have you ever felt like you've had to smile through the chaos??

This is a book about what we hide—and what it costs us to keep pretending.

Through deeply personal stories, practical reflections, and emotional insights,

Rob Goddard guides readers through the masks they wear to survive… and the freedom waiting underneath.

You’ll explore masks like:

• The Mask of Independence – “I’ve got this.”

• The Mask of Approval – People-pleasing to feel enough

• The Mask of Control – Holding it together at all costs

• … and many more

Each chapter offers:

A true story (often unsaid until now)

• A breakdown of the mask and how it shows up in real life

• Reflective prompts + emotional tools to gently unmask

• A voice that meets you right where you are

“We all wear masks.”

Some masks protect us. Others hide us. But all of them—eventually—weigh us down.

Behind the Smile is a raw, honest, and powerful reflection on the emotional armor we wear and the moments that crack it open. It’s not just Rob Goddard’s story—it’s ours. The parts we don’t post. The truths we’re scared to say.

This book is your invitation to gently explore the masks you wear… and begin to let them go.

Who's It For?

You’ve mastered the art of looking like you’ve got it together.

You smile, you show up, you succeed—but underneath?

There’s a quiet ache. A feeling that something’s missing.

Maybe even… you.

This book is for you if:

  • You’re always the one others lean on, but no one sees your weight.

  • You’ve learned to be strong, independent, composed—but you’re tired.

  • You grew up with expectations you never chose—and they still shape you.

  • You feel disconnected from your emotions, your truth, or your voice.

  • You’ve done the inner work… but something deeper still wants to be heard.

“If you’ve ever hidden your pain behind a smile, this book is your permission slip to feel—fully—and begin again.”

About the Author

Rob Goddard is a Brisbane-based life coach, speaker, and wellness professional dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s transitions and rediscover their authentic selves. With a background rooted in curiosity and a passion for personal growth, Rob combines traditional and innovative techniques to guide clients through their unique journeys.

Through his work at Lifting Stones, Rob empowers men to confront challenges, heal from past traumas, and unlock their true potential. His approach is both compassionate and results-driven, focusing on building resilience, enhancing self-awareness, and fostering meaningful change.

In his debut book, Behind the Smile, Rob shares his personal experiences and insights, offering readers a roadmap to uncovering the strength behind their own smiles.

What You’ll Take Away

  • Identify the emotional masks you’ve been wearing (without even realizing it)

  • Understand how those masks have shaped your life, relationships, and sense of self

  • Learn how to start letting go of survival strategies that no longer serve you

  • Discover the strength that comes from living with authenticity — not performance

HOW TO PURCHASE

'BEHIND THE SMILE'

By Rob Goddard

Available Worldwide

You can find Behind the Smile at your favourite bookstores online.

Click below to choose your preferred retailer and get your copy today.

TESTIMONIALS

Early Readers Are Calling It “Raw, Unflinching, and Deeply Moving”

“Raw, unflinching, and deeply moving, Behind the Smile is a powerful testament to the strength found in vulnerability. Rob Goddard’s candid journey through grief, heartbreak, and self-discovery offers a roadmap for anyone tired of pretending and ready to embrace their whole, imperfect self. Through his exploration of the masks we wear to hide our pain, Goddard invites us to reconnect with our authentic selves and reminds us that true connection begins when we dare to be real. This book will stay with you long after the final page.”

Steve Pennells

TV Presenter / Journalist

"A highly thought provoking read, 'Behind the Smile' produced a visceral and emotional response in me that I continue to reflect on. Uniquely, Rob's honest and heartfelt story not only sheds light on the various masks we use, often as a protective mechanism, but provides sound advice on how to live more authentically by shedding them. If you've ever found yourself struggling with life's challenges I highly recommend this book."

Leighton Phair

Director

"Behind the Smile is a deeply personal, emotionally intelligent, and vulnerable exploration of the "masks" we wear to protect ourselves from pain, rejection, and judgment. Rob combines both memoir, reflection, and practical guidance to walk readers through his own healing journey while gently inviting them to reflect on theirs. For those wanting to create change in their own lives and reveal their true selves, this book is an amazing first step."

Jim Cocks

Business Coach and Best Selling Author

HAVE A QUESTION?

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