Heidi Powell Reflects on Last Conversations with Dave Hollis Before His Tragic Passing

Heidi Powell, a well-known fitness trainer and media personality, recently shared insights into her final communications with her ex-partner, Dave Hollis, prior to his unexpected death. Hollis, recognized for his previous role as a Disney executive and self-help author, passed away from an accidental overdose on February 11, 2023.

During an episode dated November 13, 2024, of the ‘Him & Her’ podcast, Powell, aged 42, divulged details of the poignant exchange she had with Hollis just before his demise. According to Powell, their conversation on the night of his passing was filled with meaningful reflections and provided her with what she described as a «beautiful closure.»

«He sent me the most insightful [messages], like, ‘Hey, you know, coming to grips with where you and I are … I’m not just losing you. You’re not just losing me. We’re losing our kids,'» Powell recounted, highlighting the emotional depth of their last communication. Hollis’s passing coincided with a significant day for Powell, her son’s birthday, further intensifying the impact of his final words.

Dave Hollis, who had four children with his ex-wife Rachel Hollis, a noted author, had been grappling with personal challenges, including depression exacerbated by online criticism, as Powell revealed. «I think some people have an easier time dealing with criticism than others, and that was really difficult for him,» she stated during the podcast, underscoring how negativity affected his mental health.

Powell also discussed the complexities in their relationship, mentioning that logistical challenges and geographical distances were factors that led to their split prior to Hollis’s treatment for personal issues. She emphasized that despite their separation, the connection remained, and their interactions were profound until the end.

The cause of Hollis’ death was determined to be the «toxic effects of cocaine, ethanol, and fentanyl,» according to an autopsy report by the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office in Austin, Texas. The report, released months after his death, also cited high blood pressure and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease as contributing factors.

Following Hollis’s death, Powell has taken to social media to express her feelings, maintaining a respectful tone concerning his family’s privacy while sharing her own reflections. «None of what I know now takes away from the life he was in this world and it doesn’t take away from the things I love about him,» she expressed in a heartfelt Instagram post earlier in 2023.