Her Story
About Ashley
Ashley Reed owns and operates a food truck in the Deuces historic neighborhood of Saint Petersburg, Florida, where she serves comfort food, wings, and soul food on Sundays, including specialties like chicken and waffles. A registered nurse by trade, Reed has worked in that profession for years while building her food truck business over nearly three years, drawing on a lifelong passion for cooking that began in her grandmother's kitchen as a child. She recently received the Famous Amos Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative Grant of $50,000 and is a member of the U.S. Black Chambers. Reed partners with the Pinellas County Urban League to host Wellness Wednesday healthy food demonstrations twice a month. She continues to work as a nurse Monday through Friday and runs the food truck after hours and on weekends, with plans to expand into a brick-and-mortar location while maintaining the truck for events. Reed attributes her success to the unwavering support of her mother and values respect, the golden rule, grace, and love in both her professional and personal life.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ashley
01What do you attribute your success to?
My mom has been very supportive through everything. She pushes me and believes in me. Sometimes when I feel like quitting, she speaks life into me, and I'm so grateful for that.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The sky is honestly the limit. Anything that you put your mind to, it's definitely doable, and never be afraid to ask for help. Find a good community and really believe in yourself, and shoot for the stars.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Respect is definitely important. I truly believe in the golden rule, you treat others how you want to be treated. Extending grace, extending love, those are just values that I try to live by.
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