Stop Disqualifying Yourself Before You Start with Ashlyn Smith, PA-C

In this episode, Johanna Moses and Ashlyn Smith explore how fear, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt can hold talented women back from pursuing their passions and creating impactful careers. They share personal stories, practical advice, and encouragement to help listeners step into their purpose with confidence.Ashlyn Smith is a board-certified Physician Associate, Certified Lifestyle Medicine Professional, Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management, and Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of PAs with 15 years of clinical expertise in whole-person endocrine care and over a decade of commitment to medical education.Ashlyn is the founder of ELM Endocrinology & Lifestyle Medicine, PLLC. She co-launched the Independent PA Collective, supporting PAs in starting and scaling innovative, independent healthcare and other PA-led ventures. She is Past President of the American Society of Endocrine Physician Assistants and adjunct faculty at Midwestern University PA program and University of North Texas Lifestyle Health program. In addition to clinical care, Ashlyn is an author and frequent speaker at state and national conferences.0:00 — Introduction to overcoming self-doubt in healthcare4:07 — Career journey and the first yes6:04 — Building a practice that fits your life11:45 — The power of community and mentorship14:11 — Working through imposter syndrome and fear24:10 — Why capable women hold back40:42 — Motherhood, adoption, and a changed perspective44:07 — Grief, faith, and life beyond the plan51:32 — Redefining success around family and purpose54:39 — Closing encouragement: take the next stepTakeawaysYou don't have to be completely ready to start; taking the first step is often the hardest but most rewarding.Surrounding yourself with supportive community can accelerate your growth and confidence.Recognize the skills you already have and how they translate into entrepreneurship.Fear and self-doubt are normal; they don't define your ability to succeed.Your identity is not in your titles or achievements but in who you are and whose you are.Failure is part of the journey; it is a stepping stone, not a stopping point.Connect with Ashlyn: www.elm-health.comInstagram: @elm.pacTikTok: @elm.paclinkedin.com/in/ashlynsmithpacConnect with Johanna:🌐 www.johannamoses.com🌐 www. Ephraimfoundation.org📲 Instagram: @medicine_motherhood_missionsJohanna Moses, PA-C, MPH, is a physician assistant, author and founder of The Ephraim Foundation International, a nonprofit empowering rural communities in Sri Lanka through education and microenterprise. Drawing on her clinical background and nonprofit leadership, she hosts the Medicine Motherhood Missions podcast, helping healthcare professionals find meaningful ways to extend their impact beyond the exam room and women find their place in their own stories. Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: R1SRFZNBEAD87ZCM