APPLE PODCASTS | SPOTIFY
I am so excited to welcome Ashley Koltonski on today’s episode! Ashley transitioned from her “safe” corporate job last year to pursue her more creative side by doing boudoir photography. She now owns Body Art Boudoir, a luxury boudoir studio in Pittsburgh, PA.
Within her business, she successfully finds ways to not only empower women, but also have a job where she can have fun, be creative, and not have to have other people weighing in.
Ashley’s Journey to Entrepreneurship
We dived into the transformative journey she embarked on as she transitioned from corporate life to full-time entrepreneurship. I was blown away by Ashley’s commitment and drive—she showed up to every coaching call, asked all the right questions, and truly gave it her all.
Ashley reflected on her experience, saying, “Whenever I invest in something, I’m pedal to the metal. I’m fully in.” This mindset was evident in how she approached her 12-week program, where she not only started her own boudoir photography business but also managed to hold a successful promotional event at a bridal expo—all while still working a corporate job.
But what stood out the most was how this journey was a turning point for her. “It was a push for me to get super clear on what I wanted to do with a business, and not only get super clear on how with your guidance, but like believing in myself.” For Ashley, the shift wasn’t just about learning the business side of things—it was about seeing herself as a true entrepreneur, capable of making it on her own.
Now, a year into her solo entrepreneurship journey, Ashley has completely transformed her life, leaving the corporate world behind. “Here I am, a year of solo entrepreneurship under my belt, and my whole world has changed. It’s amazing.”
Celebrating Wins and Reflecting
It’s so important to celebrate wins both big and small. Ashley shared a beautiful practice she started last year—keeping a celebration jar in her kitchen. Each week, she writes down something she’s celebrating, from business milestones like her first sale to personal achievements. As she reflected on her journey, she emphasized how this simple act of recognition has been transformative.
“Celebration has always been a huge part of my life,” Ashley said. “The more you can celebrate and recognize happiness, joy, and accomplishments, the more you’re magnetizing that into your life.” This practice not only helped her acknowledge her growth but also served as a tangible reminder of her progress when she looked back at the end of the year.
What struck me the most was how this ritual has built her confidence and inspired those around her. I even mentioned wanting to start a similar tradition with my family, recognizing how powerful it could be for my kids to participate.
Transformative Solo Travel
Ashley shared a profound experience that transformed her life—taking a 12-week solo trip through Europe. This journey wasn’t just about seeing new places; it was about reconnecting with herself on a deep level. “I got to reconnect with who I am, independent of anything—independent of a job, people, a relationship, even the conveniences of home,” Ashley reflected.
During her travels, she found clarity and became intentional about her values and what truly mattered to her. She described the experience as a “coming home to yourself,” a process of rediscovering who she was without the pressures and responsibilities that often define our daily lives. As she explored Croatia, Italy, and other beautiful places, Ashley realized the importance of choosing herself, something that’s easy to forget, especially for women who are so often in service to others.
I resonated deeply with this idea, noting how many women struggle to even remember what they enjoy doing. “I don’t even know what I like to do,” I admitted, echoing the sentiments of many who feel disconnected from their own desires and passions. While an extended trip to Europe might not be feasible for everyone. Small acts of choosing oneself—like taking a day to explore your own city—can be liberating.
Finding Joy and Following Your Creative Passion
Ashley shares her journey of realizing she was in the wrong environment and the steps she took to transition from her corporate job to her creative passion in entrepreneurship. She explains how she started feeling disrespected and uninspired at work, carrying a weight that made her uncomfortable even in meetings. This discomfort led her to assess her values, which became a pivotal moment in her decision-making process.
Reflecting on a particularly disappointing meeting, Ashley recalls, “It just did not align with my values at all. And it was clear—this can’t work for me. This is not sustainable for me in the long run.” Once she made the tough decision to leave, she sought support from her therapist, who helped her address her fears, particularly around finances. The solution was to save a specific amount of money to create a safety net, ensuring she could take the leap into her new venture with confidence.
Ashley emphasizes the importance of creating a safety net when taking risks, stating, “What is your safety net that you need to feel confident in taking that leap?” For her, this preparation made all the difference. Reflecting on her decision, she says, “It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life by far.”
I resonated with Ashley’s journey, noting the importance of paying attention to what truly fulfills you and how it becomes harder to ignore once you start incorporating those elements into your life. This conversation highlights the significance of aligning your work with your core values and the empowerment that comes from making bold, intentional decisions.
Embracing Your Authentic Self and Empowerment through Boudoir Photography
In this heartfelt exchange, we reflect on the power of authenticity, the ripple effect of passion, and the importance of self-trust in entrepreneurship. I shared my thoughts on the impact my coaching program had on Ashley’s journey, expressing how rewarding it is to know that putting myself out there played a role in someone else’s transformation. “The fact that I put myself out there with this coaching program was a step in your whole transformation,” I noted, highlighting the significance of sharing one’s passions and experiences.
Ashley agrees, emphasizing the collective growth that occurs when individuals tap into their true selves and express that authentically. “The more that we as women and men, can tap into their true authentic selves and learn to express that safely and heal, the more that we’re all gonna collectively evolve and grow and be better,” Ashley says, pointing out the domino effect of positive influence that can happen when people live authentically.
For Ashley, being true to herself and her values is key to her success. Even on days when doubts creep in, she reminds herself of the importance of staying aligned with her authentic self. “All I know is that I need to be true to me. What matters to me and how I’m showing up in my businesses… I just know it’s gonna work because I am me,” she asserts. Stacy echoes this sentiment, adding that building self-trust through putting oneself out there and making an impact is crucial.
Connect with Ashley:
If you felt connected to Ashley in the episode “From Corporate Life to Creative Freedom: Ashley Koltonski’s Journey”, here’s where you can find her:
Instagram: @bodyartboudoir
Website: www.bodyartboudoir.com
IN THIS EPISODE, YOU CAN LOOK FORWARD TO:
- Celebrating wins, both big and small, is important for building confidence and inspiring others.
- Authenticity and self-expression are key to living a fulfilling life and operating at your best.
- Leaving a toxic work environment can be challenging but necessary for personal well-being and growth.
- Solo travel can be a transformative experience that allows for self-discovery and reconnecting with one’s true self through creative passion.
- Entrepreneurship requires mindset shifts, self-belief, and a willingness to take risks. Aligning with one’s values is crucial for making decisions that support personal growth and fullfilment.
- Creating a safety net, such as saving money or having a backup plan, can provide the confidence to take risks and pursue one’s creative passions.
- Intentional living involves being aware of how certain environments, relationships, and activities make us feel and actively choosing what brings us joy and fulfillment.
- Celebrating achievements, big or small, and practicing self-affirmation can help build self-trust and foster a positive mindset.
- Embracing one’s authentic self and expressing it through creative outlets can lead to a more fulfilling and empowered life.
CONNECT WITH STACY
Get the journaling freebie – Start your day on a positive note and get unstuck
Looking for more? Connect with me on Instagram @stacymusgrave or check out my website stacymusgave.com.
