Have you ever felt unseen, unheard — like your voice no longer matters?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Women Thrive, we meet Dana Marie Ashford, a powerhouse educator and social-emotional learning expert with over 25 years of experience. Dana shares her deeply personal journey of reclaiming her voice and helping others do the same — guiding women from a place of emotional suppression to bold self-expression.

Through the lens of emotional intelligence, resilience, and healing, Dana introduces us to the concept of the “diminished self” — how small, constant dismissals can shrink your sense of identity — and how to reclaim it, piece by piece. She explains how social emotional learning (SEL) isn't just for kids — it’s a toolkit for grown women too, especially those ready to rise.

If you've ever questioned your worth, quieted your voice, or lost parts of yourself along the way… this episode is your invitation to come home to your truth.

✨ Listen now and start rewriting the narrative of who you are — with power, purpose, and presence.

✨ About the Guest ✨

Dana Ashford M.Ed Social Emotional Learning Specialist  and The You Project

With over 25 years of experience in education, Dana Ashford M.Ed  is a dedicated specialist in Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and trauma-informed practices. As a member of the world's first graduating class to earn a Master’s degree as a Social Emotional Learning Specialist, Dana has pioneered approaches that center around emotional intelligence, resilience, and authentic connection in educational spaces.

Throughout her career, Dana  has supported hundreds of students of all ages in building self-efficacy, developing self-awareness, and mastering emotional regulation skills. A strong advocate for neurodivergent learners, Dana helps students rediscover who they are and forge meaningful connections with themselves and others, empowering them to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.

Driven by a personal journey of healing after experiencing abuse, Dana is passionate about helping individuals reclaim their voice and reinvent their diminished selves. This mission led to the creation of The You Project, a transformative initiative designed to guide people toward becoming the best version of themselves. Through workshops, speaking engagements, and direct mentorship, Dana inspires others to step into their truth, build emotional resilience, and live with purpose.

📢 Important Links 📢

Connect with our Guest:

https://www.facebook.com/dana.stephensonashford

https://theyouproject.info

Connect with Women Thrive Media:

Women Thrive Summit: https://womenthrivesummit.com/

Become a Guest on the Women Thrive Podcast: https://womenthrivemedia.com/podcasts

Women Thrive Book: https://womenthrivesummit.com/book/

Women Thrive Magazine: https://womenthrivemagazine.com/magazine/

➡️ Show Highlights

(00:00) Introduction

(03:13) Dana’s Journey and Passion for Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

(07:28) Breaking Down What SEL Really Means

(16:39) Understanding the “Diminished Self” and How It Shows Up

(22:59) Steps to Reclaim and Rebuild Your Empowered Self

(34:01) Final Thoughts and Words of Encouragement

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