Her Story
About AshLeigh
AshLeigh Banner is the Manager of the Urban Cowboy Bar and Grill in Eureka, Nevada, where she has spent nearly three years overseeing daily operations, serving customers, and managing staff demonstrating her versatility and commitment to her community. Banner brings more than 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, having begun her career at McDonald’s before advancing to an assistant manager position at Dairy Queen. In 2014, she expanded her hospitality experience as a Food and Beverage Supervisor at Chinook Winds Casino in Lincoln City, Oregon. She holds a Nevada food handler’s card and bar card as a certified bartender. Alongside her professional responsibilities, Banner is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Media Communications at Full Sail University, with an expected graduation in March 2028. She was the recipient of the Media Communications Course Directors Award in April 2026 and maintains a 3.23 GPA. After completing her degree, she hopes to use her skills to create digital content and affordable advertising solutions for business owners. She attributes her success to the support of her husband and children and is guided by integrity, trustworthiness, and reliability, believing that representing others means being mindful of the reputation and values entrusted to her. Banner has been married for nine years and is the proud mother of three daughters, ages 4, 13 and 17. Family is at the center of her life, and they enjoy attending their daughters’ soccer and volleyball games, having movie nights, visiting the park, camping, and taking shopping days together. Their household also includes four cats, two dogs, and a turtle, keeping the family busy and active. A devoted Harry Potter fan, Banner also loves football and makes a tradition of watching games every Sunday with her family; she is a Seattle Seahawks fan, while her husband supports the Kansas City Chiefs. When she has time to unwind, she enjoys relaxing with a bubble bath and a glass of wine. She also gives back by supporting the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with AshLeigh
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support of my family, especially my husband and children, who inspire me to show up each day with purpose and determination. I am motivated by the desire to create a better life and greater opportunities for my children than I had growing up. I am also passionate about the work I do and deeply value the people I have the opportunity to work alongside, as their support, encouragement, and shared commitment continue to inspire my personal and professional growth.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to be a leader, not a boss. To me, leadership means earning the trust and respect of those around me, leading by example, listening to others, and supporting my team rather than simply giving directions. I believe the strongest leaders empower others, recognize their contributions, and create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to believe in yourself and recognize that you are capable of achieving more than you may realize. Stay confident in your abilities, remain committed to your goals, and never give up when challenges arise. There will be obstacles and setbacks, but what matters is finding a way to learn from them, keep moving forward, and continue building the future you want for yourself.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is operating in a small community where business can fluctuate significantly. Our restaurant relies heavily on the local mining industry, so customer traffic can vary depending on when miners are in town and working. This requires us to remain flexible, provide excellent service, and find ways to build lasting relationships with our local customers so we can maintain a strong business during slower periods.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, trustworthiness, reliability, and strong moral principles. I believe integrity is about more than protecting your own reputation; it is also about honoring the reputation of the people and organizations you represent. I strive to be someone others can depend on, to remain true to my values, and to work with people who share a similar commitment to honesty, respect, and doing what is right.
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