An Inspired Chat with Ashley Edwards

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ashley Edwards. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Ashley , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
These days, my workdays look a little different than they used to. I work from home doing hair, which means I can blend creativity and connection with the comfort of my own space. Living with chronic illness means my body doesn’t always cooperate with my plans—but I’ve learned to adapt, pace myself, and make every ounce of energy count.

Mornings usually start with checking in on my health and preparing my space so clients feel welcomed and relaxed. Some days are full and flowing, others require me to slow down and take breaks, but I always find a way to keep moving forward. I’ve learned that perseverance isn’t about pretending it’s easy—it’s about showing up, in whatever way you can, and still creating something beautiful.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Ashley Edwards, an alternative hairstylist with a passion for bold color transformations and seamless extensions. For years, I thrived as an educator, traveling, teaching, and sharing my skills with stylists and students across the industry. These days, I’ve traded the hustle for a slower, more intentional rhythm—working from home, creating a one-on-one experience where artistry meets authenticity. My brand is about more than great hair—it’s about self-expression, confidence, and making every client feel like the most vibrant version of themselves.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that has served its purpose—and that I have released—is the constant need to overextend myself to meet everyone else’s expectations. For years, I thought saying ‘yes’ to everything was the key to success, but I’ve learned that protecting my energy and setting boundaries allows me to show up more fully, both for my clients and myself.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, more times than I can count. There have been moments when the weight of it all made me want to walk away, but each time I fall, I get back up. For me, success has been less about a straight path and more about constant pivoting and rerouting. No matter how many times the plan changes, I find a way forward every single time.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
Hustle culture in the beauty industry convinces stylists that their worth is tied to how booked, busy, and exhausted they are. We’re told that success means 12-hour days, no breaks, and saying ‘yes’ to every client, class, and opportunity, even at the expense of our health and creativity. It’s glorified burnout, but that pace isn’t sustainable, and it often leads to resentment and losing the very passion that brought us here. I’ve been there. I’ve chased that nonstop pace, and all it did was drain my creativity and wreck my health.

Now I know better. The best work comes when you protect your energy, charge what you’re worth, and stop wearing exhaustion like a badge of honor. I’d rather have fewer clients who get my full artistry than a packed schedule that leaves me too burned out to care.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Yes. Early in my career, I dreamed of working with my idols and the brands I admired most. When I finally got those opportunities, I quickly learned that many of them cared more about profit than people. It was a hard truth to face—realizing that the passion and integrity I expected weren’t there behind the scenes. In some ways, I miss the naïve excitement I had before those experiences, because I was more passionate about educating then. However, it also gave me clarity. I believe in sticking to my values and integrity as an educator, stylist, and businesswoman, so I chose to walk away. Now, I align only with people and brands whose actions truly match their image, and I’m far more intentional about where I invest my time and energy.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @dropdeadheadz

Image Credits
Tera Jones – Two Crafty Cats Photography