Today's show is sure to inspire! Ashley Mays, a dynamic guest with a compelling story, walks us through her journey from her college roots at the University of Virginia (UVA) to her impactful career in economic development and real estate. She uncovers her experiences at UVA, including her venture to Valencia for studying abroad, navigating all grounds recruiting, and the beginning of her career at Rolls Royce.

Fueling our conversation further, Ashley delves into her transition to the economic development field during the real estate boom in 2003. She passionately advocates for equitable development and illuminates the barriers black businesses face in seizing opportunities. Drawing from her experiences in real estate, from midtown Manhattan to the Brooklyn Navy Yard, she unveils sobering truths about racial disparities in the industry. Her insights into the lack of color in these spaces are both revealing and inspiring.

Finally, we steer the conversation towards the power of representation in business structures. Ashley emphasizes that simply having a seat at the table can make a world of difference in bridging the inequity gap. Her plans to assemble a syndicate of black and brown folks to invest in mid-sized projects are nothing short of ambitious and revolutionary. As a board member of the University of Virginia White Ruffin Byron Center of Real Estate, she is relentlessly working towards ensuring access to resources for students, making a profound impact. This episode is a treasure trove of invaluable insights, compelling ideas, and a testament to Ashley May's incredible journey. Prepare yourself for an enlightening conversation.