Meet Ashley Gadway

We were lucky to catch up with Ashley Gadway recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ashley, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

For years, I carried the quiet belief that there would be a moment—some defining nod of approval—when I would finally be “qualified” to take up space, start something new, or step into leadership. As a child, I looked at the adults around me—my friends’ parents who had careers, started businesses, and made big decisions—and I assumed they had all received some invisible permission slip that told them they were ready.

Then, at some point in the past few years, I had a realization: no one really has it all figured out. Most people are just doing their best, learning as they go, and, yes, faking it till they make it. That awareness was freeing. It forced me to question the invisible barriers I had placed in front of myself, especially as a woman, in a society that often undervalues our skills and voices.

So, I stopped waiting. I gave myself the permission I had been looking for all along and decided to just go for it—to start, to speak up, to take action. And while imposter syndrome still creeps in now and then, I remind myself that no one starts as an expert. Confidence is built through doing, and I refuse to let doubt keep me from the impact I know I can make.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

Hi, I’m Ashley, The Michigan Dyer! I’m a mom, an artist, and an educator based in Michigan, dedicated to the artistry of natural plant dyeing. I transform vintage textiles into beautiful, eco-friendly fashion, focusing on sustainability, ethics, and slow fashion through the use of responsibly sourced materials.

As I continue my journey in 2025, I feel an urgent need to create positive change—not just in the way we interact with textiles but in the way we engage with our communities. I recognize the privilege I hold, and I want to use it to make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s through my work, how I raise my child, or how I show up for others, I strive to foster respect, education, and empowerment in all that I do.

That’s why I’m in the process of transforming my business into a nonprofit: The Michigan Color Lab: Connecting People & Plants. Our mission is to educate and empower communities through the art and science of natural dyes, bridging sustainability, creativity, and social impact. Through hands-on workshops, foraging walks, and educational initiatives, we teach children and adults about the deep connection between plants, textiles, and environmental responsibility.

What excites me most about this work is its intersection of art, science, and sustainability. It’s about more than just dyeing fabric—it’s about inspiring people to rethink their relationship with fashion, the environment, and their own creative potential. We are building a platform for social reform and community engagement, where education leads to action, and color becomes a catalyst for change.

As we move forward, we’re focused on expanding our reach, securing a dedicated workspace, and launching programs that directly reinvest in our community. From providing sustainable textile education in schools to offering community giveback initiatives like childcare scholarships and park cleanups, our goal is to make a lasting impact.

I believe in the power of plants, people, and education to create a more sustainable future—and I’m excited to see where this journey leads.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, three qualities have been the most impactful in my journey: resilience, curiosity, and community-building.

1) Resilience: Starting and growing a mission-driven business—especially one centered on sustainability and education—comes with challenges. There have been moments of doubt, financial obstacles, and the constant push to prove the value of slow fashion and natural dyes. But resilience has kept me moving forward. My advice? Accept that setbacks are part of the process. Instead of seeing them as failures, view them as lessons. The ability to adapt and keep going is what ultimately leads to success.

2) Curiosity: My journey has been fueled by an endless desire to learn—about natural dyes, textile sustainability, nonprofit structures, and how to create meaningful impact. Staying curious has allowed me to keep evolving. For those just starting, I encourage embracing a “lifelong learner” mindset. Read books, take workshops, ask questions, and never assume you know it all. The more you explore, the more doors you’ll open.

3) Community-Building: The most rewarding part of my work has been connecting with others—whether it’s collaborating with schools and nonprofits, teaching workshops, or inspiring individuals to make more sustainable choices. None of this would be possible in isolation. My advice? Build relationships early. Engage with like-minded people, seek mentorship, and surround yourself with those who share your passion. Community is not just a support system—it’s the foundation for meaningful change.

For anyone just beginning their journey, my biggest piece of advice is to start before you feel ready. The perfect moment doesn’t exist. Trust in your ability to learn along the way, lean into your passions, and stay connected to the people and purpose that drive you forward.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Absolutely! I’m always looking to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations who are passionate about sustainability, community engagement, and education. The Michigan Dyer thrives on collaboration, and I believe that real change happens when we work together.

I’d love to partner with:

– Sustainability advocates who are focused on reducing textile waste, promoting second-hand fashion, and fostering responsible consumer habits.

– Educators and STEAM enthusiasts who see the value in blending science, art, and nature to inspire the next generation.

– Local Michigan nonprofits and businesses that align with our mission and want to collaborate on events, workshops, or community initiatives.

– Funders and potential board members who believe in the power of education and sustainability and want to help shape the future of The Michigan Dyer.

– Artists, scientists, and nature lovers who are passionate about honoring plants, foraging, and exploring the deep connections between people and the environment.

If you’re reading this and feel aligned with our mission, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s create something meaningful together. You can connect with me via email: [email protected], or Instagram: @themichigandyer. Let’s build a more sustainable, connected, and creative future—one natural dye at a time!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://themichigandyer.com
• Instagram: @themichigandyer
• Facebook: @themichigandyer

Image Credits

Theresa Schmidt Photography