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In today’s conversation, I’m joined by the deeply insightful Ashley Menzies Babatunde—lawyer-turned-DEI professional, storyteller, mentor, and host of No Straight Path. Ashley’s story is one of striving, success, burnout, grief, and rediscovering herself again through honesty, intention, and courage.

We talk about what it looks like to achieve big things…and still feel empty, and how failure and loss can become catalysts for a more grounded, joy-filled life. Ashley shares how failing the California bar exam (twice), losing her mother, navigating high-pressure work environments, and becoming a new mom shaped her into someone who is no longer only “achieving,” but becoming.

We explore the difference between striving and healthy ambition, how to reconnect with your purpose when your light starts to dim, and the graceful, necessary art of pausing when life invites you to. We also dive into mentoring, motherhood, grief, and the idea of time affluence—how to create more meaningful moments in the middle of busy seasons.

If you’re navigating burnout, evaluating your purpose, or trying to imagine a new way of being, Ashley’s wisdom will feel like a deep exhale.

 

Highlights from Today’s Episode

  • Simple signs you’re striving instead of living intentionally
  • How journaling helps uncover your passions
  • The power of mentorship and sharing your network

Related Resources

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Other Stuff to Check Out

  • Want tools to help you reflect, reset, and make intentional choices? The Full Circle Planner gives you space to slow down, notice what matters, and build rhythms filled with purpose—not pressure.
  • If you’re craving mentorship, honest conversations, and a community of women who “get it,” the Inner Circle is where we walk out these lessons together—one month, one practice, one step at a time.

Let’s Talk!

  1. What drains you and what lights you up—and when was the last time you asked yourself that?
  2. Who could you ask for feedback about your gifts, strengths, and blind spots?
  3. What small pause or reset could you give yourself in this season?

 

Connect with me…​

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How to Listen to The Podcast

If you’re new to podcasts, think of them like little radio shows that you can listen to at your convenience. They are perfect to listen to and learn from as you workout, fold laundry, wash dishes or conquer the world.

1. Listen right here on the blog. Click the little play button at the beginning of this post.

2. Listen on iTunes or Stitcher or Google Play! – Be sure and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode! Also, if you would be so kind as to leave a rating on iTunes and/or write a 2-3 sentence review there or on Stitcher?  Your commentary or rating helps make the podcast more “findable” by others who might not know it exists!

3. Share today’s show –   Email the link to a friend or share on social media. Just click on the sharing buttons at the bottom of this post!

You have been so great to join me on the journey here on the blog, I hope you jump right in and do the same on the podcast!