Meet Ash Mayers

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ash Mayers a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Ash, great to have you with us today and excited to have you share your wisdom with our readers. Over the years, after speaking with countless do-ers, makers, builders, entrepreneurs, artists and more we’ve noticed that the ability to take risks is central to almost all stories of triumph and so we’re really interested in hearing about your journey with risk and how you developed your risk-taking ability.

I think I’m just constantly aware of the fact that I’m gonna die one day. Things definitely scare me and I definitely get anxious, but I know that I want a lot of things in this life that require me to push myself beyond where most people want to go. Being a first-generation American, I am also aware that there are so many opportunities around me that I have the privilege of acting on. Taking the safe route does seem tempting at times, but then I remember that my most fulfilling moments in life have come from taking these big leaps. I once read a book called “The Game of Life and How to Play It” and it all kind of clicked for me that we can choose to either make life a game or a battle. I also wholeheartedly know and believe that I am blessed and loved.

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

I’m Ash Mayers — a storyteller based in NYC. I work as an actor, comedian and writer both on-screen and onstage. This past year alone, I have had the pleasure of performing at the Gallery Players New Play Festival, Columbia University, the brand new Perelman Performing Arts Center, The PIT and various independent theater venues. It’s always so fulfilling to collaborate with other artists on new, experimental pieces. I’m especially excited by stories that incorporate song, humor, and movement into the queer, BIPOC experience.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

The first thing I’ll say is that when people warn you that pursuing a career in the arts is hard, believe them. Because my teachers reminded us how hard this industry is, I was prepared for the inconsistent income, the constant rejection, and all the lows that come with the territory of chasing your dreams. Once you understand that these little losses don’t reflect your worth, it’s easy to keep it pushing. Second, you must always be yourself. I feel like social media has caused people to observe what makes certain people likable and then try to imitate them. But what works for someone else will not be what works for you. If it feels like you are doing something against your nature, people will always pick up on that. Finally, work on building your tribe mindfully and with discernment. I didn’t get here all by myself. When you show up as your authentic self and remain sincere, you’ll develop some amazing relationships that will get you through whatever life throws at you.

What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?

I have been so much more comfortable letting people know what I need from the start. Whether it’s the first day on set or the first table read for a play, I simply voice any anxieties or concerns that may come up so that everyone is aware of what I’m working through. People are often very understanding and sweet about these things. Even if I’m at a party or networking event, I am not afraid to let people know if I’m overstimulated or uncomfortable. Making people aware helps prevent any tension or miscommunication early in the process.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ashmayers.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashmayers
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ashmayers
• Other: https://substack.com/@ashmayers

Image Credits

Ameer Kazmi