We recently had the chance to connect with Mrs. Ashley Kohl and have shared our conversation below.
Ashley, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Who are you learning from right now?
I am constantly learning from my 98-year-old Memere. This past summer, she made a difficult but courageous transition from her lifelong home into a one-bedroom apartment in assisted living.
While she once lived fully independently and on her own terms, she now navigates each day dependent on others—relying on staff to help her get ready for bed, take her to meals, and assist with showering, all while struggling with mobility.
Yet, her spirit is undimmed. She keeps her life full of joy by calling the people she loves, and visits from family and friends remain the absolute highlight of her days. She is as sharp as a tack, which, in a way, makes accepting these physical limitations even harder for her.
I watch her strength, her determination to stay positive, her unwavering positivity, and her immense joy. I feel profoundly blessed to have her, and eternally grateful to learn from her deep appreciation for life and her love for living. She makes me laugh, she makes me think, and she makes me feel loved. She is my treasure, and she reminds me daily to be grateful just to be alive and above ground.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Ashley Kohl, and I wear a few hats—all of them centered around building community and fostering the performing arts. I am the proud Owner of the Ohana School of Performing Arts and the Ohana Clubhouse, and the Founder of the non-profit organization, One Ohana, Inc. My personal brand is “Peace, love and good vibes always…” with a goal to make a positive impact and contribute to people’s happiness each and everyday.
My entire world revolves around the concept of “Ohana,” which, as many know, means family. We are far more than just dance studios or activity centers; we are a true family dedicated to providing a supportive, high-quality, and positive environment for everyone who walks through our doors.
Ohana School of Performing Arts & Ohana Clubhouse
What We Do: We offer comprehensive instruction in the performing arts (dance, theater, etc.) while also providing a safe, engaging space—the Clubhouse—where community members can connect and grow.
We focus on “Performance for a Purpose.” We’re not just training great dancers; we’re building great people. We emphasize life skills like teamwork, discipline, and confidence, all while prioritizing a joyful, family-first atmosphere.
One Ohana, Inc. (Non-Profit)
Our Focus: This is where our mission extends into the community. One Ohana, Inc. is dedicated to giving back and ensuring that the arts are accessible to all, regardless of financial barriers. We use the power of performance to bring positive change and support local initiatives.
My personal journey and the entire Ohana brand are built on the belief that when people feel supported, seen, and part of a family, they can truly thrive. We are constantly working on new programs to deepen our community impact and bring the spirit of Ohana to an even wider audience.
I’m incredibly passionate about continuing to grow this Ohana family, giving back to the community, making the world a better place and using the transformative power of the performing arts to make a difference!
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
Becoming a better leader has been a journey, and my husband, Wade Bassett, has been my anchor and mentor throughout. As a director in the demanding retail sector, Wade’s leadership is defined by integrity. He has taught me the importance of managing with love and kindness, and the necessity of making difficult decisions that are firmly rooted in what is right and true. Beyond the emotional intelligence of leadership, he has imparted valuable operational skills—property management, organization, and discipline. His wisdom has been a constant guide, and I am absolutely a better business owner because he is by my side.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
What “suffering” taught me—that success never could—is the true value of everything we achieve. Every accomplishment is steeped in pride because we intimately understand the hard work and sacrifice it required. I take nothing for granted, and my journey through hardship has given me deep empathy for others. The memory of every bounced check during difficult times fuels my dedication to support those facing similar struggles. For every dark moment I endured, I can now offer someone else genuine understanding and support. These obstacles didn’t break me; they shaped me. They have humbled me, increased my gratitude, and instilled a drive to give back to the life that has given me so much. Going through the tough days makes us stronger, more resilient, passionate, empathetic, and ultimately, more helpful leaders.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say what really matters to me is time and connection—specifically, spending time with the people I love, especially my family and friends. They’d highlight my passion for spreading joy and making a tangible difference in others’ lives through love and kindness. On a personal level, they know I value making memories, living life fully (complete with good food!), being present with my kids, and the occasional necessary release like a good vent session or a dance party.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope to be remembered for the difference I made, for the happiness I spread, and for the lasting mark I left on the hearts of others. My deepest wish is that people will say I fully honored the time I was given—that I was a good person who identified their purpose and did something truly meaningful with it. I refuse to leave this Earth without having done what I was put here to do.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: @ohanaperformingarts.com, @ohana.clubhouse
Image Credits
Anna Pearlman, Waite Creative Photo & Design
Headshot: Michael Epaul Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
