Ashleigh Owens is the Deputy Director at Shift, a global leader in advancing the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights—and she’s also the lead singer of a local rock band. In this episode, Ashleigh joins Maria to talk about her incredible journey: growing up in a tiny beach town in Western Australia, working as a lawyer in Japan, navigating the world of international human rights, and rediscovering her creative voice through music.

They cover everything from ethical business practices and global supply chains to the power of following your creative instincts, no matter your day job. It’s a conversation about curiosity, courage, and the joy of doing things your own way.

✨ Topics in this episode:

What companies can do to truly respect human rights

Why corporate ethics matter (and how they often fall short)

Ashleigh’s surprising path from cheerleading in Japan to writing policy at the UN

How karaoke nights led to her joining a band

The value of community, creativity, and asking for help

Ashleigh is proof that smart isn’t one thing—it’s many things, all working together. You’re going to love her.

Teacup Sallie: https://www.teacupsallieband.com