Meet Ashley Graham | Founder and Publicist

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

Hi Ashley, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process and the decision to start my own business stemmed from my belief in shaping a life that reflects my unique vision. Life is too short to spend on pursuits that lack love and joy. In March 2016, as I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, I discovered a profound passion for entrepreneurship and a vision for the enjoyment I was searching for.

I wanted to break free from the limitations of working under someone else’s vision and agenda. I craved the freedom to pursue my own ideas, make my own decisions, and take control of my own reality. That’s when I made the bold decision to start my own business.

One of the key motivations behind starting my business was the desire to do something I truly loved. When you are passionate about what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. It becomes an integral part of who you are, and every day becomes an opportunity to pursue your dreams.

Building a business from scratch was challenging. There were moments of doubt, setbacks, high anxiety, depression and feeling lost, and sleepless nights. But each obstacle became a learning opportunity, fueling my determination to succeed. I sought knowledge, honed my skills, and embraced a growth mindset, knowing that every step forward brought me closer to my vision.

Over the years, my business and I as an individual have grown and evolved, and I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing clients who appreciate my unique approach. I’ve implemented creative, conscious strategies aligning with my values and meaningfully connecting with audiences. The satisfaction I derive from seeing my ideas come to life and making a positive impact is immeasurable.

Starting my own business has allowed me to live on my own terms. I can set my schedule, pursue exciting projects, and make decisions that align with my long-term vision. While the path of entrepreneurship is not always smooth, the sense of fulfillment and empowerment it brings is unparalleled.

Entrepreneurship is a challenging path to tread. It requires determination, resilience, and a willingness to take risks. But for me, the rewards far outweighed the challenges. I knew that by building my own business, I could create a life aligned with my values and aspirations.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this journey, life is too short to settle for anything less than happiness and fulfillment. By taking the leap into entrepreneurship, I’ve created a life that brings me joy and allows me to make a difference in the world. And for that, I’m eternally grateful.

What should our readers know about your business?
The Conscious Publicist solves the problem of purpose-driven businesses, digital entrepreneurs, and visionaries needing help to amplify their message and gain visibility while reaching their target audience. Many of these businesses and leaders may have important news and stories to share. Still, they may need more resources, expertise, or strategy to effectively communicate their message to a larger audience. By providing PR and media services that are aligned with our client’s values and goals, The Conscious Publicist helps these businesses and leaders to create a strong brand identity, increase their visibility, and amplify their message in a way that resonates with their target audience — Ultimately achieving their mission of making a positive impact on the world.

What sets The Conscious Publicist apart from other PR and Media Relations firms is our distinct approach to aligning our services with our client’s mission and purpose. Unlike many companies in the industry, we prioritize creating a balance between “doing” and “being.” Our offers go beyond traditional PR and media strategies by addressing our clients’ work’s personal and interpersonal aspects.

True success lies not only in external achievements but also in personal growth and fulfillment. That’s why we help our clients develop the character traits and strengths needed to succeed in their mission. We create a supportive space where they can feel confident, seen, heard, and recognized, empowering them to shift and transform through their work to make a lasting impact.

At The Conscious Publicist, we emphasize conscious connections and relationships as a fundamental part of our process. Building meaningful connections is crucial for creating a more conscious and sustainable world. Through our “People Relations” focus, we assist our clients in developing the practices and modalities needed to establish authentic and impactful connections.

Our agency offers an all-inclusive approach to our offers that combines the expertise of a public relations and thought leadership coach, a conscious communications guide, and an executive media strategist. This comprehensive approach ensures our clients receive personalized support, guidance, and resources tailored to their needs and goals. We provide a full-service concierge experience that enables our clients to effectively share their mission and message.

Our ultimate goal is to help purpose-driven businesses make a difference. We are committed to supporting our clients’ journey toward creating a more conscious and sustainable future. By offering unique services encompassing personal growth, conscious connections, and comprehensive PR strategies, we aim to be the catalyst that helps our clients achieve their goals that positively impact the collective experiences of those around them.

The Conscious Publicist’s commitment to our unique approach and dedication to empowering purpose-driven businesses make us genuinely distinct in the industry.

Our long-term aspirations for The Conscious Publicist revolve around amplifying conscious awareness and storytelling on a broader scale. We are committed to utilizing our platform and resources to promote meaningful dialogue, foster connections, and inspire positive change.

One of our key initiatives is our podcast, where we invite thought leaders, experts, and changemakers to share their insights and experiences. Through these conversations, we aim to provide a platform for conscious awareness and storytelling, allowing our audience to gain a deeper understanding of important topics and perspectives. We contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic society by featuring diverse voices and narratives.

In addition to our podcast, we are actively seeking opportunities to participate in high-profile events that attract a diverse audience. These events provide a platform to showcase our expertise and engage with like-minded individuals passionate about using PR and media for social good. By connecting with potential clients, partners, and collaborators, we can expand our impact and create meaningful collaborations that further our mission.

Furthermore, we recognize the importance of securing funding to support our growth and reach. We are actively enhancing our investor pitch to attract venture capitalists and investors who share our vision and believe in the power of conscious PR. With increased funding, we can expand our capabilities, resources, and reach to make a more significant impact on promoting conscious awareness and storytelling.

As we continue to grow as a business, our core values and mission will remain at the forefront of our endeavors. We are committed to conscious awareness, authentic storytelling, and promoting positive change. By nurturing our relationships with clients, partners, and collaborators who share our values, we can collectively contribute to building a more conscious and compassionate world.

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?
When traveling with friends, some of the most cherished memories are created when we allow ourselves to go with the flow and embrace experiences as they unfold naturally. Orange County, California, is a destination that caters perfectly to this mindset, offering many diverse experiences that delight any adventurous soul. While there might be a better approach than grand itineraries for my group of friends, some standout experiences should be noticed while visiting this vibrant region.

One of the joys of exploring a new place is indulging in its culinary delights, and Orange County has no shortage of exceptional dining establishments. My group of friends will be prepared for a treat like the food enthusiasts we are. Starting in Anaheim Hills, Orange Hill Restaurant awaits with its captivating ambiance and breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Whether visiting for a sumptuous brunch or a nice evening dinner, this restaurant promises an unforgettable experience.

Rum Social in Laguna Beach is also a must-visit for a lively atmosphere. With an extensive selection of delicious Caribbean-inspired dishes, this spot offers a delightful blend of flavors and cultural influences. Additionally, with a soft spot for lakeside dining, Haciendas on the Lake in Mission Viejo provides the perfect setting to savor Mexican cuisine with a modern twist while enjoying picturesque views of Lake Mission Viejo.

A visit to Orange County would only be complete with exploring the wonders of Laguna Beach. This coastal paradise is a treasure trove of experiences where nature, art, and leisure seamlessly converge. If I was showing a friend around the area, we would enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautiful beaches, bask in the golden California sun, and feel the refreshing ocean breeze. We might even spot dolphins playing in offshore waves if we’re lucky.

As my friends are also art aficionados, they will be in for enjoyment as Laguna Beach boasts a vibrant arts community with numerous galleries and art festivals. The annual Sawdust Art Festival and Festival of Arts showcase the incredible talents of local artists, providing an immersive experience into the world of creativity and expression.

For the nature lovers in my group, a day trip to Catalina Island promises an unforgettable adventure. Accessible by ferry from Dana Point or Long Beach, Catalina Island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Explore the island’s rugged terrain on a hike, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the sandy shores. The laid-back atmosphere and stunning landscapes will leave you feeling rejuvenated and at peace.

Orange County’s ability to cater to various interests and preferences makes it special. Whether seeking relaxation on the beach, immersed in arts and culture, exploring the great outdoors, or indulging in culinary delights, this region has something for everyone.

However, as mentioned previously, the beauty lies not in having a strict itinerary but in allowing spontaneity to guide our journey. My goal with traveling or hosting friends visiting is to explore charming neighborhoods, stumble upon local gems, and embrace Orange County’s unexpected surprises. Orange County offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. From delectable dining options to the artistic wonders of Laguna Beach and the tranquility of Catalina Island, this Southern California gem promises an unforgettable journey.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Yes! I would like to highlight a book that has catalyzed my growth throughout my journey. The book “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz is a personal favorite of mine. I recommend it to anyone looking for guidance on their growth journey. This book is valuable because it presents four practical agreements we can make with ourselves to live a more fulfilling life. These agreements are:

Be impeccable with your word.
Don’t take anything personally.
Don’t make assumptions.
Always do your best.

The book details each agreement and how these agreements can be applied to different areas of our lives. These agreements are beneficial not only for personal growth but also in our professional lives. I keep returning to this book every few years because it reminds me to stay true to these agreements. Getting caught up in our daily lives is easy; we must practice these agreements. By revisiting the book, I can realign myself with these principles and stay on track toward personal and professional success.

I highly recommend “The Four Agreements” to anyone seeking practical personal growth and development guidance. The concepts presented in the book have profoundly impacted my life, and they can do the same for others.

As for additional support and encouragement, I am immensely grateful for each client, connection, and business partner I have met along the way. Their unwavering support and belief in my abilities have been instrumental in my journey toward success. It is their trust and collaboration that has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.

I am truly fortunate to have crossed paths with incredible individuals who have become clients, friends, and mentors. Their guidance, wisdom, and constructive feedback have pushed me to reach new heights and strive for continuous improvement.

Moreover, the genuine connections I have forged with fellow professionals and business partners have been invaluable. The collaborative spirit, shared knowledge, and collective efforts have contributed to realizing shared goals and accomplishments.

I extend my deepest appreciation to all those who have believed in me or continue to believe in me, collaborated with me, and supported me throughout my journey. Your encouragement has been a source of motivation during challenging times, and your presence has made the journey all the more fulfilling.

I look forward to continuing this meaningful journey together, creating new opportunities, and making a positive impact through this work.

Website: https://theconsciouspublicist.com/

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-conscious-publicist/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2Jgl4xtpYstMSyZGgDxu-Q

Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theconsciouspublicist/

Image Credits
The Conscious Publicist, LLC