Meet Ashley Goodin | Small Business Owner & Mental Health Advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Goodin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I initially started my business it was just meant to be a hobby, but as word spread through family, friends and the power of social media it became much bigger. My focus was mainly on “Mommy & Me” apparel and accessories, but the passion just wasn’t there.

In January 2022 I made the decision to completely rebrand my business with a mission of ending the stigma surrounding mental health. My new motto is “Ending the stigma, one shirt at a time”. I was terrified of how the rebranding would be received in my community, but the support, kind words, and messages about how much this meant to people gave me the the confidence I needed to launch my new apparel.

Mental health is something that has been so stigmatized in our country. Unfortunately most people do not receive or seek out the care they need. My goal was to let them know they are not alone and there is hope.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I think what’s set me apart from others is I’ve taken something so stigmatized and turned it into a successful business. A lot of people in my field tend not to have an extremely specific niche, but I found mine and ran with it.

I’m proud of myself for going for something that really scared me. I’m proud of myself for providing support to so many. I’ve received messages from friends and customers who told me I was “saving lives”. It hadn’t occurred to me just how big of an impact I was making.

Getting to where I am was not easy at all. I had many ups and downs along the way. I struggled to find a niche that gave me the passion and desire to continue. I wanted to quit so many times, but those close to me encouraged me to keep going.

Mental Health became a passion when I was diagnosed with Bi Polar 2. I struggled with shame, embarrassment and fear of what people might think. I took those feelings and decided I would use them to advocate for others who were in the same boat. Sharing my story has been extremely freeing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Some of my families favorite things to do are visit the waterfront, there are so many restaurants to chose from, we don’t have a particular favorite, but they’re all pretty great.

The Waterfront Market is a great stop as well. We never pass up a chance to stop at Only Oatmeal for a “frosting cookie” as my daughter calls them.

We also love visiting chambers bay, the scenery is beautiful, plus you get quite the walk in.

Our absolute favorite place to visit is Long Beach, WA. We take an annual summer trip, relaxing in the sand and listening to the waves roll in provides so much peace from our daily lives. My husband and I were married there.

Picnics in the park, music in the square, exploring trails and hikes with the kids, there are so many fun activities to choose from.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Where to start? I’d have to say that one of my biggest supporters in starting my “official” business was my dear friend Nikki Spaulding of West Coast Laser Design. She guided me through so much and I will forever be thankful to her.

I cannot forget to mention my Pod Family, the community that Kayla and Natasha have built is nothing short of amazing. I would not be where I am without their love and support.

My GTD girls, they know who they are, you’ve been my sounding board for years. I’ve bounced so many ideas off you all and you have always supported me in everything I do. I would be lost without you.

Last but certainly not least, my husband Matt and my kids Deven and Ella. They have helped at markets, loading and unloading the car, organizing my work space, helped with designs and provided much needed love and encouragement when the imposter syndrome kicked in. Hearing my kids say they are proud of me has been one of the most touching things in my life.

Website: www.goodintimedesigns.com

Instagram: instagram.com/goodintimedesigns

Facebook: facebook.com/goodintimedesigns

Image Credits
Laura Gysberg Photography