Website Feature: In the Limelight: Ashlie Gibbs' Journey

Website Feature: In the Limelight: Ashlie Gibbs' Journey

Shining a Spotlight on Ashlie Gibbs: The Multitalented Storyteller

Meet Ashlie Gibbs, a dynamic and multifaceted wordsmith, screenwriter, novelist, and podcast host, blazing her trail in the fascinating world of entertainment.

From her origin as an author, Ashlie has expanded her skills to screenwriting, crafting captivating series like "Sides" and adapting her #iRemember book series into a short film. She also helms the exciting NFL podcast, "Not Your Average Cheerleader". In this engaging interview, we delve into her mesmerizing journey, her unique storytelling approach, and the way she leverages her distinctive abilities to inspire others.

As we ponder about "Sides", a series that has piqued our curiosity, let's unravel its inspiration and its creation as a screenwriting endeavor.

"Sides" was initially developed and directed by Joseph Walters. He welcomed Ashlie aboard as a co-writer, marking her first foray into the realm of screenwriting. Exploring the complexities of writing for a drama series and simultaneously performing allowed her to draw inspiration from acting and develop a deeper understanding of scripts from both a writer's and an actor's perspective. It was an engaging and extraordinary learning experience, currently viewable on YouTube.

let's discuss her #iRemember series – a phenomenal success. What motivated her to transform her first book into a short film, and which hurdles did she encounter throughout the process?

As soon as she completed the first book, she felt its immense potential for becoming either a movie or a television series. She aspired to capture the attention of a producer who might bring it to life on a grander scale. Inspired by a friend's suggestion, she opted to create a short film for film festival circuits rather than hosting a book event. Nonetheless, challenges such as casting, budgeting, and securing locations for filming arose. Nevertheless, with a dedicated and talented production and acting team, she succeeded in creating an exhilarating, action-packed 16-minute film that promises to grow into something tremendous.

Hosting the cult favorite NFL podcast, "Not Your Average Cheerleader", appears to be a departure from Ashlie's typical creative pursuits. Discover the fascinating tale of how this opportunity came about and the insights she gleaned from it.

• During the pandemic, I was engaged in an enlightening discussion with my best friend Crystal about the NFL season and its potential outcome. On a whim, she suggested, "Ashlie, I don't know a thing about football...but I'm confident that someone will listen to your podcast!" With her remarkably creative and catchy name coined, I jumped at the chance. Ifound myself utterly fascinated by NFL football, relishing the opportunity to report on it, analyze it, and interview the players. Hosting the podcast has led me to interview two Super Bowl champions and, hopefully, many more outstanding personalities. I believe that the podcast has instilled within me the importance of embracing my personality and the things I love. Every week, I get to laugh, joke, and discuss football with a global audience – an incredibly rewarding experience!*

As a proud alumna of Hampton University with a degree in Political Science, explore the manner in which her education has influenced her writing (if at all).

• I strive to ensure that my education does not dictate the direction of my writing. I am currently completing my PhD in law and public policy, with scholarly writing differing significantly from fictional writing. Fictional writing demands a more conversational, everyday voice, whereas scholarly writing is formal and structured. I make every effort to maintain a clear distinction between the two types of writing. My book editor often sends me corrections for my drafts because "Ashlie, no one speaks this way!" (laughing) and I find that I sometimes inadvertently slip into an overly polished and formal tone.*

Shed some light on the upcoming 4th installment in the #iRemember series. What can readers and fans look forward to?

• The first book in the series follows Valerie as she uncovers her true identity. The second book delves into her training and her transformation into a trained assassin. The third book underscores the tense relationship between Valerie and her sister, who seeks unfinished business with her. In the fourth book, all cards are placed on the table, as Valerie and her father engage in their final battle. Readers and fans can look forward to unexpected twists, riveting plot developing, and emotions that will keep them riveted to every page, wondering what happens next.*

Reminisce about the early days, when Ashlie first initiated her storytelling journey at the tender age of 10. Share one of her earliest works or experiences that convinced her that storytelling was her ultimate calling?

My inaugural book was written in the psy-phi genre, which proved to be quite challenging for me. However, it tapped into my passion for writing and publishing, eliminating my fears about sharing my works with the world. Now, I write captivating mystery, action, and spy thriller novels that I adore.

Sharing her thought-provoking quote, "Always be a first-rate version of yourself rather than a second-rate version of someone else," Ashlie provides an anecdote from her career where she needed to embody this philosophy.

I initially believed that I must write and host like everyone else. Yet, abandoning this mindset granted me the confidence to develop my unique style behind the mic and keyboard. I soon realized that people appreciated and responded positively to my authentic approach. Their feedback encouraged and validated my pursuit of a unique writing and hosting style.

Having had an incredibly diverse professsion, Ashlie shares her insights on how she manages the balance between her various roles, and what tips she has for those embarking on a similar path.

• Focus on completing one task at a time, making lists, and building vision boards to inspire and drive you. Taking mental breaks and drawing inspiration from the people and world around you will keep you motivated and curious.*

As a seasoned author and screenwriter, Ashlie imparts her valuable lesson and advice that she wishes she had known when she first began her career.

• You will stumble, make mistakes, and perhaps invest money without seeing a profit. However, do not lose heart. If you steadfastly believe in yourself and your idea, trust the process and learn from it.*

Now, let's discuss what's next on Ashlie's agenda, as she delivers the 4th instalment of the #iRemember series and converts the second book into an audiobook. She also plans to kick-off the summer episodes and the 5th season of the NFL podcast "Not Your Average Cheerleader." We extend our gratitude to Ashlie for generously sharing her insights and experiences with us, and for her inspiring journey that serves as a beacon to all aspiring writers and podcasters.

Ashlie Gibbs' screenwriting journey began with her co-writing the drama series "Sides", marking her first foray into this medium. She also uses her education-and-self-development background to enhance her storytelling, blending elements from her Political Science degree with her flair for entertainment. As she continues to captivate audiences with her #iRemember series and "Not Your Average Cheerleader" podcast, Ashlie is eager to explore new opportunities, such as adapting the second book in her series into an audiobook and embarking on the 5th season of her podcast.

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