Ashley D. Robert

In the past, I quietly kept working behind the scenes, where I’ve always felt most comfortable. But as I approach my 40th birthday, something within me has shifted. I’m learning to step forward, speak up, and own the journey I’ve walked so far—not for recognition, but for purpose. My career began in credit analysis and portfolio management, where I learned how to handle complexity, pressure, and people’s financial futures. I spent years refining my skills in underwriting at Gulf Coast Bank and Trust before moving into insurance. That transition wasn’t just a professional shift—it was a personal one. Insurance allowed me to directly educate and empower clients, many of whom had never been taught how to truly protect their assets, families, and futures. In the past year alone, I’ve processed over 1,000 loans in just three quarters and written more than half a million dollars in insurance premiums. Those numbers are milestones—but what they really represent is trust, consistency, and the impact of showing up every single day with intention.

The best career advice I’ve received is to stay focused. Nothing is going to blow up if it's not accomplished the same day. Be confident in what you're doing—this took me a lot of time to learn earlier in my career.

The advice I would give to young women entering the industry is to lead with integrity. Reputation can open doors where skills alone might not. Protect yours. Don’t dim your light—you don’t have to downplay your strengths to make others comfortable. Shine—authentically, unapologetically, and intentionally. Faith over fear has been my guide in every major career transition; it steadies me when circumstances are uncertain and grounds me when success arrives. Stay coachable. No matter how far you’ve come, there’s always more to learn. And remember, your work ethic is your brand. Show up, be reliable, and do the small things well—people notice consistency even more than talent.

Throughout my career, I’ve faced my share of challenges—but each one taught me lessons I couldn’t have learned any other way. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward. Start with what you know, stay consistent, and trust that clarity will come through action. Early in my career, I sometimes doubted if I was “qualified enough” to take the next step. Confidence often comes after the leap, not before it. Some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced weren’t technical—they were internal. Imposter syndrome, second-guessing myself, and trying to prove I belonged in rooms I had already earned a seat in. I had to learn to own my expertise, speak up, and not shrink just because others were silent. Another challenge was balancing ambition with well-being. For years, I ran on hustle, not knowing how to slow down, delegate, or say no. That eventually caught up with me—mentally, physically, and spiritually. Now, I’ve learned the value of sustainable success. I pace myself, protect my peace, and trust that what’s meant for me won’t require me to burn out to receive it.

At the heart of my career is something deeper than just ambition. My faith drives everything I do. It shapes how I serve, how I communicate, and how I lead. I don’t believe success is just about climbing a ladder—it’s about making sure I’m lifting others as I rise. I’ve learned that being coachable is just as important as being confident. Communication, responsiveness, and a willingness to keep learning have been essential to my growth. I’ve also had to learn balance—to pace myself, preserve my peace, and pour from a full cup. Purpose without burnout is my new standard.