In this episode, Michelle Savage talks with Ashley Barnhill — comedian, filmmaker, TV writer, and novelist — about how she faced a life-changing interruption during her creative journey.

Originally from Texas, Ashley is known for her subversively dark material and unnervingly sharp delivery. She tours internationally with Dave Chappelle, performing over 500 shows. She's appeared on Netflix & IFC's Maron and Comedy Central's Drunk History. A festival-screened director and HBO Project Greenlight Top 10 finalist. Ashley ventured into filmmaking and has written, directed, edited and acted in many of her own festival winning short films. Ashley's short film #blessed was selected by Chicago's Gold Coast Film Festival. Ashley holds a law degree from UT Austin and a titanium-plated skull.

Ashley shares her experience rebuilding her life after a coma from a catastrophic accident, and how she uses humor as her resilience tool. Michelle and Ashley's discussion delves into adapting to life's unpredictable interruptions with courage and wit while developing personal growth.

Key topics:

• The impact of unexpected life interruptions and how they reshape identity

• Lessons from Ashley's career across comedy, filmmaking, TV, and writing

• Using humor and fearlessness to navigate difficult life moments

• Reinventing oneself after profound adversity

• The importance of voice, authenticity, and resilience in personal reinvention

• The power of embracing discomfort as a step toward growth

Whether there's a traumatic experience holding you back, or you simply don't know where to start, this episode will meet you right where you are — and remind you that being seen is an act of courage, not vanity.

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Connect with Michelle Savage on IG: @michellesavagewriter

Connect with Ashley:

www.ashleybarnhill.com

www.instagram.com/ashley_barnhill

Disclaimer

This show is independently produced by Sulit Press. The views shared belong to the hosts and guests. Questions? Email [email protected]