Ashley Guan shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Ashley, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Something outside of work that is bringing me joy lately is being active! I love playing pickleball with friends and going to the gym. Something about moving my body makes me feel happy and productive.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a 9th grade English teacher! I am also our Freshmen Student Council advisor and social media coordinator. I own a photography business outside of teaching but am able to integrate my photography skills through our Instagram platforms. I also create content and help other creators reach their audience goals. Lastly, I own a non-profit fighting against human trafficking. All of this is done for my students and those that are oppressed.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was in the second grade. I received so many compliments and recognition from my teacher and the guest speaker that day. We had a project to create an advertisement and I was the only one without a partner. However, they praised my work for being the most creative. At that moment, I realized I did not need to depend on anyone and I was more than capable of doing anything alone. I also realized how my creativity was a gift. To this day, I utilize my creativity through photography and lessons. When I am teaching we are always doing something new and fun!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There were plenty of times where I almost gave up and really wanted to. In high school and even recently last year! I was very depressed in high school. I struggled with stress from school work, handling a job, family issues and bullying plus boy problems! It led me to spiral in a dark hole with my thoughts. I struggled with self harm and negative thought cycles. I also faced a lot of trauma last year that triggered this. Both times, through faith and prayer I felt God touch me. I felt close to Him in my darkness and felt His grace. I received so much joy and peace since. Holding onto my faith in Christ really helped me overcome my challenged and manage my thoughts better.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is the real me. I am transparent online and offline. I believe in being honest and vulnerable. I do not want to deceive people and give people false hope that life is perfect. I am open about my struggles and hope to encourage others that it is okay to go through hard seasons. I think online should be a safer space instead of flexing things we don’t have or pretending that our lives are better than what they actually are.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel the most at peace when I have free time. I used to think being busier than others meant being more successful. However, this only led to burnt out and regret for the bookings. I was not able to be my fullest or present with clients. It is not until I cleared up for my calendar and changed my priorities in how I spent my time I was able to have a margin in my time. Now, I am able to give my best to others!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aguanmedia.pic-time.com/client
- Instagram: @_msdrip and @a.guanmedia
Image Credits
I am going to email you the rest of the photos!
