This Wasn't My Plan

Original Air Date: 2/6/26This episode is about what happens when your plan falls apart, and you stop treating that as a problem to fix.It’s about the quiet, unglamorous moments where identity shifts, careers reroute, and life asks you to grow up faster than expected.And what becomes possible when you stop performing a polished narrative and start telling the real one.This isn’t a highlight reel.It’s the throughline behind the pivots, losses, relocations, and decisions that shaped who I am and why this show exists.This episode is for you if:You’re realizing your life or career didn’t follow the blueprint you once trustedYou’ve made choices that didn’t make sense to other peopleYou’ve outgrown an identity that once fit, but no longer doesYou’re standing at a decision point and questioning what comes nextAfter listening, you will understand:Why plans falling apart often create more alignment than success ever couldHow non-linear paths quietly build leadership, resilience, and perspectiveWhat most people miss about identity when titles, roles, or stability disappearThe shift from chasing the “right” path to building something that can’t be taken awayFollow This Wasn’t My Plan.Share this episode with someone navigating a pivot they didn’t ask for.

Original Air Date: 1/30/26If you’ve done everything “right” and it still doesn’t feel right… listen to this. Season Two opens with a reset. Not because something broke. Not because I’m burned out. But because the version of success I was chasing no longer fits the life I’m living. And if you’re feeling that same quiet tension—this episode is for you. This episode is about one distinction that changes everything Most high-achievers are incredibly accomplished. They’ve stacked credentials. Titles. Wins. Proof. But accomplishment isn’t the same as success. This conversation is about learning the difference—and what happens when you stop measuring your life by what looks impressive and start paying attention to what actually feels sustainable. You’ll resonate with this episode if: • You’ve built a career that works, but something still feels off • You’re not lost or starting over—you’re just recalibrating • You’re standing in the in-between, questioning old definitions of success • You know your values, but your life availability has changed What this episode will shift for you • Why accomplishment can feel safe—but still leave you unsettled • How to recognize when you’re chasing validation instead of alignment • What “life leadership” actually looks like in this season • Why redefining success isn’t failure—it’s growth What Season Two is really about This season is built around real conversations with people whose lives didn’t go according to plan. Founders. Leaders. Professionals. Partners. People who honored the pivot instead of fighting it. No polish. No pretending. Just honest conversations about evolution, recalibration, and building a life that fits. Before you go Season Two episodes will be released as they’re recorded—there’s no fixed drop day. Make sure you’re following or subscribed so you don’t miss a conversation. Share this episode with someone navigating their own in-between season. And DM @rxashleehayes with this question: What does success feel like for you right now? 

Original Air Date: 12/22/25Your Career Identity: Understanding Who You Are and Where You Belong Season One Finale of This Wasn’t My Plan In the final episode of Season One, Ashlee closes the year with a conversation every high-achiever needs but rarely makes space for: career identity. If you’ve ever wondered: Who am I professionally? What do I actually bring to the table? Where do I truly belong? This episode is your mirror. Ashlee takes you inside the mindset shifts, patterns, and lived experiences that shape how we show up in our careers — and why so many ambitious people feel mislabeled, misunderstood, or stuck in roles that no longer fit. Through personal stories, client examples, and the emotional evolution behind her own career pivots, Ashlee breaks down: 1. What career identity really is and why it has nothing to do with your job title. 2. Why high-performers struggle to see their own strengths because adaptability becomes a double-edged sword. 3. How to identify the roles you naturally step into even when no one formally assigns them 4. The difference between skill and identity and why being good at something doesn’t mean it should define your life. 5. Why your next chapter requires letting go of outdated versions of yourself and how to recognize when it's time to pivot This episode blends reflection, strategy, and storytelling including powerful identity shifts from real clients, plus Ashlee’s own journey from pharmacist to founder, operator, and clarity expert. It’s the perfect closing chapter to a season built on evolution, ambition, and the courage to rewrite your path. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • How to recognize your real career identity • What your behaviors reveal that your title doesn’t • The three questions that help you define your next chapter • Why proving yourself keeps you stuck • How to trust your instincts when they feel risky • What to do when your professional identity stops fitting • Why nonlinear paths are becoming the new normal Listener Takeaways: • Your title doesn’t tell the full story — your patterns do. • You’re not stuck — you’re evolving. • You’re allowed to outgrow roles, labels, and expectations. • Your career identity is already inside you — you’re learning how to name it. Season Two Preview: Next year, Ashlee brings on more than one hundred guests with real This Wasn’t My Plan stories — people who pivoted, rebuilt, paused, left, returned, and reinvented their careers in ways that don’t fit the traditional mold. Consider this your permission to evolve. Special Thank You: Brittany — the creative engine and heartbeat behind Season One — thank you for shaping every episode behind the scenes. And to every listener: every share, every message, every moment you pressed play… you built this season with us. Stay Connected: • Follow the show so you never miss a new episode • Share this episode with someone navigating a pivot or identity shift • DM Ashlee on Instagram @rxashleehayes and tell her: What part of your career identity are you starting to outgrow? 

Original Air Date: 12/15/25If you’ve ever worked inside a business—big or small—and thought, “Why does everything feel so chaotic?” or “Why are we always reacting instead of leading?” this episode is going to make everything click. Today we’re talking about the most overlooked role in organizations: the Integrator. The bridge between the people dreaming about the future… and the people responsible for building it. Most leaders don’t know this role exists. Most teams don’t realize they’re missing it. But everyone feels the impact when it’s gone. In this episode, I break down: • What an Integrator actually is —not in MBA language, but in a way you can bring straight back to your team. • Why big ideas fall flat without a translation layer and why execution suffers even when the talent is strong. • The signs your organization is missing a bridge (overwhelm, rework, shifting priorities, recycled goals, decision fatigue). • What changes when this role is in place alignment, accountability, clarity, steadiness, and real momentum. • How my entire career unknowingly trained me to be an Integrator long before I had language for it— and how EOS finally gave me the name for the way my brain has always worked. Whether you’re a high-achieving employee trying to understand why your team feels stuck… or a business owner wondering why your organization can’t seem to scale without burning your people out… this episode will help you identify the gap and understand what’s been missing. Because every business—every single one—needs someone who: • Translates the vision • Creates the plan • Holds the team accountable • Removes obstacles • Clarifies priorities • Connects communication • Protects momentum That’s the Integrator. That’s the bridge. And once you see it, you can’t unsee it. Mentions in this Episode: • EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) • The Visionary + Integrator dynamic • My journey into operations, systems, and leadership clarity Episode Takeaways: • Big ideas aren’t the problem—lack of ownership is. • Alignment is a leadership choice, not a mood. • Businesses don’t burn out from growth—they burn out from unclear roles. • You might already be acting like an Integrator without realizing it. • Clarity is what makes execution sustainable. Before you go: If this episode hit home, here’s your next step: • Follow the show so you never miss an episode. • Share this with a friend, colleague, or teammate who’s navigating growth. • DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes and tell me: What part of your career are you beginning to outgrow? 

Original Air Date: 12/8/25If you’ve been walking around with that quiet pressure in your chest, the “I should be further along by now” pressure, this episode is for you. Today, we’re talking to the part of you that’s tired, overstretched, and holding yourself to timelines that don’t match who you are anymore. The part of you comparing yourself… to an older version of you. The part of you grieving an identity or a plan you’ve outgrown. In this episode, Ashlee shares why feeling behind often means you’re actually evolving, not failing. You’ll hear stories from ambitious employees and business owners who all feel the same pressure—and the question that changes everything: “What version of you created that expectation—and does that version even exist anymore?” Whether your life is shifting because of aging parents, changing responsibilities, new opportunities, or a career identity that no longer fits, this episode will help you release the outdated timelines, reconnect with who you are now, and acknowledge the invisible progress you’ve been building all along. If you feel behind… come closer. You might be further along than you think. What You’ll Learn in This Episode 1. Why feeling “behind” is a signal, not a failure How pressure shows up when your identity, responsibilities, and values evolve. 2. How timelines you created years ago quietly turn into cages And why those expectations need to evolve with the person you’ve become. 3. Why employees and founders struggle with the exact same narrative Different roles, different stakes, same internal story: “I should be further than this.” 4. The question that snaps high achievers out of self-judgment “What version of you made that expectation?” and what to do when the answer is “someone I’m not anymore.” 5. The invisible progress you keep overlooking The internal upgrades such as clarity, resilience, and courage that never show up on a résumé but change everything. Key Takeaways • You’re not late. You’re evolving. • Outdated expectations create unnecessary pressure. • Feeling behind usually means you’re outgrowing your current chapter. • You can’t measure growth with old metrics. • Progress isn’t always visible, but it’s always accumulating. • You’re allowed to rewrite your path at any age, in any season, for any reason. Power Questions to Ask Yourself Use these to check your story and reclaim your timeline: 1. Am I actually behind or grieving an older version of me? 2. Is this expectation coming from who I was… or who I am now? 3. What pressure am I carrying that was never mine to carry? 4. If I removed the timeline, what would I be free to pursue? Episode Resources Follow Ashlee on Instagram: @rxashleehayes Work with Ashlee: rxashlee.com Join the newsletter for career clarity, leadership growth, and communication tools. If This Episode Spoke to You… • Follow the show so you never miss what’s next • Share the episode with a friend or teammate who feels “behind” • Send Ashlee a DM: What part of your timeline are you ready to rewrite? 

Original Air Date: 12/1/25In this episode, Ashlee opens up about the powerful internal shift she experienced throughout 2025 — a year marked by releasing identities, roles, habits, and patterns that no longer fit. For the first time in nearly two decades, she stepped entirely out of the profession of pharmacy and into a fuller expression of herself: strategist, leader, visionary, woman on a mission to reshape how we communicate and lead.If you’re walking into a new season of your life, this episode will speak directly to you. It’s part reflection, part invitation, and fully aligned with the evolution so many high-achievers are navigating right now.Ashlee walks you through what she’s setting down, what she’s stepping into, and what it really takes to rewrite your narrative—especially when life has never followed your plan.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy 2025 became a year of clearing, cleansing, and conscious releaseHow trauma, loss, transitions, and identity unraveling shaped her pathThe internal patterns that were quietly steering her decisionsWhat stepping fully out of pharmacy opened upHow over-functioning becomes a self-imposed ceilingWhy “the fixer” identity had to goThe shift from confidence coaching → clarity + leadershipWhat the next era of RX Ashlee looks likeWhat she’s choosing to carry (and what she’s not) into 20266 Things Ashlee Is Letting Go Of Before 2026The identity of being the fixerShe’s not the glue anymore — she’s the architect.The pressure to please everyoneShe’s trading likability for clarity.The need for external validationAlignment over applause.The belief that “safe” equals successFamiliar isn’t growth.The guilt around wanting moreAmbition isn’t betrayal.Over-functioningDoing the most isn’t the gateway to receiving the most.Key TakeawaysLetting go is a skill you have to practice.Stillness can be strategic, not self-indulgent.Space isn’t empty — it’s powerful.Not every problem is yours to solve.You can love your life and want a fuller expression of it.Your next chapter requires clarity, not clutter.Powerful Quotes from the Episode“I’m not the glue anymore — I’m the architect.”“My value isn’t in doing everything. It’s leading with clarity.”“Letting go isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom.”“I don’t have to do more to deserve more.”“You’re not stuck. You’re evolving.”“I am the voice. RX Ashlee is the vehicle.”Looking AheadThis episode sets up a major story arc for what’s coming next.You’ll hear more about her transition out of pharmacy in Episode 25: ‘My Divorce From Pharmacy.’If This Episode Hit Home…Before you go:Follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming in 2026.Share this episode with someone who’s clearing space for their next chapter.DM Ashlee on Instagram @rxashleehayes and tell her:What are you letting go of before 2026 begins?Thank you for pressing play.You didn’t freeze.You’re moving forward.

Original Air Date: 11/24/25You Know What You Bring to the Table, Now Let People See It.Last week, we talked about creating your personal brand—the foundation, the clarity, and the message behind what you stand for.This week, we’re talking about what comes next: how to grow your personal brand with visibility, credibility, and trust.Because having a brand in your head isn’t enough.You need people to see it, believe it, and pay you for what you bring to the table.In this episode, Ashlee breaks down:How to build visibility with intention (without being everywhere at once)The right way to show credibility—through stories, not titlesWhy networking is the key to expanding your reachHow to align how you’re perceived with how you intend to show upThe difference between being “known” and being trustedIf you’ve ever thought, “I know I’m good at what I do—but no one else seems to see it,” this episode will help you fix that.Because growth doesn’t come from noise—it comes from clarity, consistency, and connection.Listen now to learn how to grow your personal brand with purpose, not pressure.Before you go:Follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to grow their influence.And DM Ashlee on Instagram @rxashleehayes — tell her: What part of your personal brand are you ready to grow next?

Original Air Date: 11/17/25Episode #20: You Already Have a Personal Brand, Are You Owning It?🎙️ This Wasn’t My Plan with RX AshleeYour personal brand isn’t about going viral or building a perfectly curated feed—it’s about clarity. It’s about knowing who you are, what you stand for, and how you want to show up in every room you walk into.In this episode, Ashlee breaks down what a personal brand actually is, how it differs from your reputation, and why clarity in communication is the foundation of your career legacy. You’ll walk away with practical steps to define your brand, identify your signature “brand words,” and audit how you’re showing up—online and in person.Because here’s the truth: you already have a personal brand. The question is—are you shaping it on purpose, or letting everyone else define it for you?In this episode, you’ll learn:• What a personal brand really means (and what it’s not)• The difference between your brand and your reputation• Why clarity in communication is everything• How to identify your unique “brand words” and proof points• Why your brand should evolve as you do3 Key Takeaways:1.  Your personal brand is your legacy in motion. It’s the story of who you are, not just the title you hold.2. Reputation is history. Personal brand is strategy. One is reactive—the other is intentional.3. Clarity builds credibility. If you don’t define your message, someone else will.Reflection Questions:1.  What do you want to be known for when you’re not in the room?2. What 3–5 words best describe your brand energy?3. Does how you show up—online and offline—align with what you want people to say about you?Before you can grow your personal brand, you have to create it.Next week, Ashlee will walk you through how to grow your brand—building visibility, credibility, and alignment once you’ve defined your foundation.Connect with Ashlee:Follow on Instagram → @rxashleehayesShare this episode with a friend who’s ready to define who they are and own it.Subscribe so you never miss an episode of This Wasn’t My Plan.

Original Air Date: 11/10/25Podcast Episode #19: Coaching My Daughter’s Flag Football Team — Leadership, Lessons, and Letting GoWhen you say yes to something outside your comfort zone, you rarely realize how much it will change you.In this episode, Ashlee shares the story of what started as a simple volunteer “yes” coaching her daughter’s 3rd and 4th grade girls’ flag football team and how it became one of the most meaningful lessons in patience, perspective, and purpose.Because coaching 8- and 9-year-old girls? It’s not about grooming future CEOs.It’s about helping them believe they can.It’s about giving them the confidence to lead their own lives — to use their voice, trust their instincts, and take up space in whatever path they choose.You’ll hear what it’s really like to coach your own child, balance fairness with competitiveness, and build a sense of belonging where every girl feels seen, both on and off the field.Ashlee shares how this season reshaped her view of leadership, community, and what it means to show up for the next generation, not to control their journey, but to guide them toward their own.In this episode, we cover:• Why girls in sports are 1.5x more likely to have higher self-esteem and why that matters far beyond the game• How to coach your own child without blurring the lines between mom and mentor• The hardest part of coaching no one warns you about (and why it mirrors real-life leadership)• How parents shape confidence when they focus on effort over outcome• Why leadership isn’t about control — it’s about creating space for others to growYour Biggest Takeaway:We’re not grooming future CEOs.We’re shaping girls who believe they can — girls who grow up with agency, voice, and courage to lead their own lives.Before you go:If this episode hit home, here’s what I want you to do:• Follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.• Share this episode with another parent, coach, or teammate who gets it.• DM me on Instagram [@rxashleehayes](https://www.instagram.com/rxashleehayes) — tell me: What unexpected place has taught you the most about leadership?Always remember: You’re not too much. You’re just done shrinking. And you’re right on time.

Original Air Date: 11/2/25Podcast #18: How to Support Someone Who is Going Through a Career PivotWhen someone you love is questioning their career, it can be hard to know what to say or what not to say.Maybe it’s your best friend who’s been talking about leaving her job for years but still hasn’t made the move.Maybe it’s your partner, your daughter, or your team mate someone who’s clearly outgrown what they’re doing but doesn’t know what’s next.In this episode, Ashlee unpacks how to support someone through a career pivot without overstepping, fixing, or fueling more pressure.You’ll learn what words to avoid, what phrases actually help, and how silence—when used with intention—can be one of the most powerful tools of support.Because most high-achieving, smart, capable people don’t want to be told what to do, they want a safe space to speak without judgment.And sometimes, the best way to help them find clarity is to stop talking.In this episode, we cover:• What not to say when someone’s in career limbo• The key question that builds trust instead of tension• How leaders can recognize when a team member is in a pivot• Why silence can be stronger than advice• How to show support without taking overYour Biggest Takeaway:You can’t carry their career for them. But you can walk beside them.And sometimes, that’s exactly what they need most.Before you go:If this episode hit home, here’s what I want you to do:• Follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.• Share this episode with someone supporting a friend or partner in transition.• DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes — tell me: Have you ever supported someone in a career pivot? What helped?Always remember: You’re not too much. You’re just done shrinking. And you’re right on time.

Original Air Date: 10/27/25Episode #17: How to Quit Being So Vague During InterviewsIf you’ve ever left an interview thinking, “Did I even answer their question?” — this one’s for you.Being vague is one of the sneakiest ways candidates sabotage themselves in interviews. It doesn’t happen because you’re unqualified. It happens because:Fear kicks in and you second-guess what you really want to say.Or you’re unprepared and scramble with filler words like “I think,” “sort of,” or “I like to work hard.”The problem? Vague = forgettable. And in an interview, forgettable is the kiss of death.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m breaking down six practical tools to quit being vague and start being clear, specific, and memorable in every answer.You’ll learn:Why clarity always beats charisma in interviews.How to “Get to the Point” (GTTP) and stop circling your answer.Why numbers and evidence stick while vague words vanish.How your body language (yes, even your feet) impacts your clarity.This isn’t about being fancy. It’s about being clear.Because you already have the experience. Your job is to articulate it.👉 If this episode resonates with you:• Follow the show so you don’t miss what’s coming next.• Share it with a friend who’s in interview prep mode right now.• DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes and tell me: which interview question do you struggle to answer without rambling?

Original Air Date: 10/20/25Episode #16: Stop Talking Yourself Out of Your DreamsHave you ever felt like the words get stuck in your brain, and by the time fear sets in, you’ve already talked yourself out of your dream?You’re not alone. One of my Career by Design students put it perfectly:“I’m so scared people won’t listen or believe me… so I talk myself out of my dreams. I’m tired of doing that to myself.”In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m sharing:1. Why silence feels safe in the moment but costs you big over time.2. The hidden price of not speaking up at work (promotions, opportunities, trust).3. Five actionable steps to start finding your voice, even if it shakes.This isn’t about being fearless. It’s about giving yourself the chance to be heard.Because you’re not too much. You’re not late. You’re right on time.👉 If this episode resonates with you, follow the show, share it with a friend, and DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes and tell me: what dream have you been talking yourself out of?

Original Air Date: 10/13/25Episode #15: Confidently You — The Why, What’s Inside, and How It Will Change How You Speak UpConfidence doesn’t just appear when you need it most—it’s built through repetition, preparation, and giving yourself permission to take up space.In this special episode, I’m celebrating the release of my newest book, Confidently You. This book isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about learning how to own your value, articulate your skills, and walk into any high-stakes conversation prepared.Inside this episode, I’ll share:Why I wrote Confidently You after coaching over 6,000 professionals.The real reason people struggle in interviews and big conversations (hint: it’s not their résumé).A live reading from Chapter 1, so you can get a taste of what’s inside.Three powerful takeaways that will shift the way you think about preparation and confidence.Whether you’re preparing for an interview, gearing up for a big meeting, or simply wanting to show up more clearly in your career, this episode is your push forward.👉 Grab your copy of Confidently You and start using it as your playbook for speaking up, being heard, and showing up as the leader you already are.

Original Air Date: 10/6/25🎙️ Episode #14: 5 Tips to Keep Your Sanity When You are Looking for a New JobJob hunting isn’t just about résumés and applications, it’s emotional work. One day you’re optimistic, the next you’re doubting everything. And if you’re not careful, the process will drain every ounce of energy you have.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m sharing 5 intentional, non-traditional strategies to protect your peace while navigating your job search. These aren’t fluffy tips, they’re pulled from coaching thousands of professionals through pivots, career changes, and messy middle seasons.You’ll learn how to:Decide when to fully commit to your job search (and what you must start saying no to).Compartmentalize your energy based on your season—because there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.Set micro-goals strategically so you’re not just busy, but actually making progress.Practice out loud with purpose so you show up clear and prepared.Leverage accountability (with data that proves why it works) to speed up your search and keep it on track.If you’re in the thick of applications, waiting on recruiters, or simply ready for something new, this conversation will give you the clarity and focus to keep moving—without burning yourself out in the process.✨ What to do next:1. Follow the show so you don’t miss future episodes.2. Share this with a friend or colleague who’s in the middle of their own job search.3. DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes and tell me: Which of these 5 strategies are you putting into play this week?You’re not behind. You’re not failing. You’re evolving.

Original Air Date: 9/29/25If you’ve ever walked out of an interview thinking, “I rambled too much…” this episode is for you.After coaching over 2,000 clients, training 8,000+ students in my interview prep course, and helping negotiate more than $20M in offers, I can tell you with full confidence: the #1 mistake that costs people job offers is rambling.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m breaking down:Why rambling happens (hint: it’s not because you’re “bad at interviews”).What research says about nerves, working memory, and communication under pressure.My GTTP framework, Get To The Point, the most powerful tool I teach my clients to land the offer.Real-world examples of how to trim the fluff, stop circling, and deliver answers that actually stick.Simple, practical ways to practice so you show up clear, credible, and memorable in every interview.Because clarity always beats charisma.Your career doesn’t grow because you give the longest answer, it grows because you give the clearest one.👉 Listen in and learn how to quit rambling and get to the point.

Original Air Date: 9/22/253 Tips to Make Your Boss Actually Listen to YouHave you ever spoken up in a meeting, shared an idea, and… crickets?No acknowledgment. No follow-up. No traction.And then ten minutes later, someone else repeats the same idea... and suddenly that becomes the golden solution?I know that sting. And you’re not imagining it.Sometimes it’s unconscious bias. Sometimes it’s power dynamics. Sometimes it’s simply poor timing or the way the message is packaged. But here’s the good news: you’re not powerless.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’ll give you three practical tips to make sure your boss actually listens to you, not just nods politely, but remembers what you said, acts on it, and connects the idea back to you.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:Why leading with why makes your message impossible to ignore.The GTTP (Get To The Point) method for packaging your words so they land.The underrated “echo strategy” and how repetition makes your ideas stick.How practicing these skills in interviews, meetings, and negotiations builds lasting clarity and influence.Your ideas deserve to be heard. Your voice deserves to carry weight. And these tools will help you make sure it does.

Original Air Date: 9/15/25Is loyalty in the workplace outdated, or does it still hold weight?Some people say: “Stay loyal, loyalty gets rewarded.”Others argue: “Keep moving if you want growth.”So, which one is right? And more importantly, what does loyalty actually cost you?In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m breaking down both the rewards and the risks of loyalty. From credibility and resilience to pay gaps and complacency, I’ll share stories from clients and my own career that reveal the messy reality of staying put versus moving on.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:Why loyalty can build resilience and credibility, but still hold you back.The financial risk of assuming loyalty gets rewarded (and why external hires often make more).How complacency sneaks in when “comfort” replaces growth.Why job movement can expand your creativity and authority.Four self-check questions to keep loyalty a choice, not a trap.Loyalty isn’t dead. But blind loyalty? That’s dangerous. This episode will help you rethink how you measure loyalty—and whether it’s fueling or stalling your growth.🔗 Before you go:Follow the show so you never miss an episode.Share this one with a friend or teammate stuck between staying and leaving.DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes and tell me: What does loyalty mean to you right now?

Original Air Date: 9/8/25Have you ever bitten your tongue in a meeting, held back a question, or swallowed an idea because you weren’t sure how it would land. If so, you’ve experienced the opposite of psychological safety.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, we’re unpacking what psychological safety really is and why it’s not just a buzzword that belongs in an HR handbook. It’s the foundation of trust, growth, and performance in your career, your team, and even your personal life.Here’s what I want you to know: silence might feel safer in the moment, but long-term, it costs you more than the mistake ever will.Inside this episode, I share: What psychological safety actually* means (and what it is not).* A personal story of how admitting “I don’t know” built more trust than pretending ever could.* Groundbreaking research from Harvard, Google, McKinsey, and Gallup that proves safety, not charisma or talent, drives the highest-performing teams.* Five practical ways to create more safety at work and at home.* Four truths you need to remember when it feels easier to shrink back than to speak up.If you’ve ever stayed quiet out of fear of being judged, this conversation will hit home.🎧 Press play and let’s talk about why your voice belongs in the room...even if it shakes.Links + Resources:Follow me on Instagram: [@rxashleehayes](https://www.instagram.com/rxashleehayes)Share this episode with a friend or teammate who needs the reminder that silence costs more than mistakesDM me: Where in your career are you craving more safety to speak up?

Original Air Date: 9/1/25Have you ever sat there staring at your LinkedIn headline, your bio, or even just a blank page thinking: How do I explain who I am and what I do?If so, you’re not alone.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m pulling back the curtain on my own messy, layered, and (sometimes) cringe-worthy journey of titles and career pivots. From pharmacist to hospital administrator, from marketing strategist to coach, to consultant, to, finally, owning the title of The Career Clarity Expert.Here’s what I want you to know: your first title won’t be your last. Every version of you carries wisdom, momentum, and lessons that shape where you’re going next.Inside this episode, I share:Why I no longer call myself a “coach” (and why words matter).The six versions of me that shaped the work I do today.The single thread that followed me through every pivot—and how to find yours.Why outsourcing your title to trends or LinkedIn buzzwords will never bring clarity.Practical ways to embrace the “messy middle” of your career identity without losing yourself.If you’ve ever felt stuck between who you’ve been and who you’re becoming, this conversation will hit home.🎧 Press play and let’s talk about how to stop shrinking into old titles, and start claiming the clarity that’s already yours.Links + Resources:Follow me on Instagram: @rxashleehayesShare this episode with a friend or teammate who’s figuring out their next chapterDM me: What version of yourself are you outgrowing right now?

Original Air Date: 8/25/25We all make mistakes at work.But the hardest ones? They don’t cost you a job. They don’t ruin your résumé.They cost you something way more expensive:1. Time you can’t buy back.2. Energy you can’t recover. 3. Opportunities that quietly slip through your fingers.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m sharing three career choices I made that I will never… and I mean never…. repeat.Not because they wrecked everything.But because they left me stuck longer than I should’ve been, doubting myself when I already knew the answer, and apologizing for things I should’ve owned with pride.Here’s what you’ll hear inside:1. Why waiting for someone else to “tap you on the shoulder” is the fastest way to stall your growth.2. The hidden costs of saying yes before you ask the right questions.3. How carrying shame for being a parent can quietly sabotage both your career and your peace and what happens when you finally release it.This conversation isn’t about skillset. It’s about trust.Trusting yourself to leave when you’ve outgrown the seat.Trusting yourself to slow down and ask better questions.Trusting yourself to protect your priorities instead of apologizing for them.

Original Air Date: 8/18/25If you’ve been raising the same concerns, offering real solutions, and waving every red flag.... @only to be dismissed, micromanaged, or flat-out ignored… here’s what’s really going on.I’m seeing this everywhere right now.High-performers questioning their instincts.Teams losing momentum.Morale sinking.But the real problem isn’t you.It’s a boss who just won’t listen.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m breaking down 3 truths that will protect your workload, your mindset, and your career when you’re dealing with a controlling leader, and how to move forward without burning out or giving up. 

Original Air Date: 8/11/25If your team is missing deadlines, feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or overworked… here’s why:I’m seeing this everywhere right now.Teams are exhausted.Leaders are spinning.And performance? Totally stuck.But the real problem isn’t burnout.It’s vague expectations.In this episode of This Wasn’t My Plan, I’m breaking down the #1 mistake leaders make... and what you can do about it (even if you’re not the one in charge).Because when you know how to spot unclear leadership, you know how to name it, and lead through it.Listen to Episode 6 now!

Original Air Date: 8/4/25You’re about to hear what it really feels like to be married to a trauma surgeon, while building a big, ambitious life of your own.If you’ve ever asked yourself:“How do I keep showing up for everything from kids, work, marriage, without losing myself?”This episode is for you.Ashlee is pulling back the curtain on a part of her life she’s never fully shared. Her husband, Chris, is an orthopaedic trauma surgeon. His job saves lives. But for years, the emotional and invisible labor of holding up the rest of their life? That fell on her.She’s not here to vent.She’s here to tell the truth about ambition, identity, marriage, resentment, and rebuilding a partnership that actually works, even when it’s far from 50/50.In this raw, real episode, you’ll hear:• What no one tells you about being married to someone in a high-stakes job• How ambition plays out behind closed doors (when no one’s watching)• Why resentment creeps in—and what helped shift it• The systems they built to survive: therapy, grocery delivery, asking for help• The surprising comments that almost took her out• And why she’s done hiding this part of her storyThis isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a survival story.And if you’ve been carrying the weight of a career, a home, and a family—alone?You’ll feel seen.You’ll Learn:✔ What real partnership looks like when life is anything but balanced✔ How to reframe ambition inside your marriage—without shrinking✔ Why traditional marriage advice doesn’t work for couples like you✔ The moment Ashlee decided to stop hiding this part of her story✔ The daily mindset shifts that brought her back to herselfIn this episode:00:00 Welcome back + why this episode is different2:12 The comment that made Ashlee go silent for years5:35 What it’s like being married to a trauma surgeon10:40 Invisible labor, identity loss, and unraveling14:20 The real cost of “you’re so lucky”18:30 Why this isn’t a power couple story—it’s survival21:25 46% burnout + divorce rates in trauma medicine25:45 Systems that saved them: au pairs, therapy, asking for help30:12 Grieving the life she thought she was signing up for35:00 What real partnership looks like when it’s not 50/5038:45 The shift from resentment to radical pride41:00 You’re not behind. You’re building something real.🎧 Listen to This Wasn’t My Plan on your favorite platform:→ Spotify→ Apple Podcasts📲 Follow Ashlee on Instagram: @rxashleehayes💬 DM her: What part of your personal life have you been afraid to own publicly?💻 For more resources and coaching tools → rxashlee.comYou’re not crazy.You’re evolving.And you’re allowed to want more—even if your life looks “shiny” from the outside.Let’s talk about the version no one posts on Instagram.

Original Air Date: 7/28/25Summer is in full swing over here, which means routines are out the window, snacks are being negotiated like contracts, and I’m just doing my best to keep everyone hydrated, fed, and off screens for more than 15 minutes.If you’re juggling camp drop-offs, your inbox, dentist appointments, group texts, and trying to hit your step count while your team pings you for decisions… you’re my people.This week’s episode is for every professional who’s ever walked out of a meeting thinking: “Wait… what did we actually decide?”Today we’re talking about the leadership quality that doesn’t get enough credit: clarity. Not charm. Not charisma. Clarity.Because while charisma might light up the room, it’s clarity that actually moves work forward. And when leaders skip it? Teams suffer. Confusion rises. Burnout sets in. Projects stall. Talent walks.Whether you’re the leader or the one following someone else’s vision, you deserve clear direction.In this episode, we cover:✔️ Why vague leadership is more common than you think✔️ How ambiguity quietly drains energy, motivation, and results✔️ What to actually say when you need clarity, but don’t want to come off as “too much”✔️ Real stories from coaching leaders who were beloved—but vague✔️ 4 ways employees thrive when clarity is the standardListener Takeaways:• Charisma grabs attention. Clarity builds trust.• If you’re not clear, your team can’t win.• You can’t grow your career on guesswork.• Silence might feel safe, but long-term? It costs you.• You don’t need permission to ask for direction. You deserve it.Try This at Work:When the direction feels fuzzy, ask:• “Can I reflect that back to you to make sure I got it right?”• “What does success look like for this?”• “Would you rather I prioritize X or Y?”• “Are there any non-negotiables I should know before I get started?”Whether you're leading the room or quietly holding things together behind the scenes, this episode is your permission slip to expect (and model) real clarity at work.You’re not too much.You’re just done shrinking.Before you go:• Follow the show so you don’t miss what’s next• Share this episode with a friend or teammate who’s feeling stuck• DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes — Tell me: Where do you need more clarity at work?Thank you for pressing play.You didn’t freeze. You’re moving forward.And next week? We’re talking about the #1 mistake leaders make in meetings and what to do instead.I’ll catch you next week on This Wasn’t My Plan.

Original Air Date: 7/21/25Feeling stretched, stuck, or scared to say the real thing out loud? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken.In this episode, Ashlee unpacks the silent burnout so many high-achievers face—and shares 5 powerful strategies to help you speak up, even when it’s uncomfortable.You’ll learn how to:- Get honest with yourself (before anyone else)- Use real language that invites clarity, not conflict- Stop softening your truth to be more "palatable"- Advocate early—before the breakdown hitsWhether you’re the go-to, the steady one, or the fixer—this episode is for you.Plus: Learn the difference between therapy, coaching, and consulting—and why Ashlee blends strategy with self-trust to help you grow.Connect with Ashlee on Instagram @rxashleehayes and share: What part of your career are you outgrowing?Follow the show so you never miss an episode.Coming up next: Why clarity beats charisma in leadership.

Original Air Date: 7/14/26Welcome back to This Wasn’t My Plan — I’m your host, Ashlee Klevens Hayes. And today, we’re talking about a turning point. The moment when the strategies that helped you build a great reputation… stop working. You’ve done the right things. You’ve carried the load. You’ve played the game. But now, you're realizing: those old rules aren’t helping you grow — they’re holding you back.This episode is for anyone feeling stuck, overextended, and still overlooked — even with a stacked résumé and strong performance. If you're thinking, “Is it just me?” — it's not. You're evolving, and it's time to upgrade your mindset and strategy.What We Cover in This Episode:• What happens when being the “go-to” teammate stops working• The disconnect between external success and internal frustration• Why high-achievers hit a ceiling (and what to do about it)• The three myths keeping you from leveling up your career:1. Just do good work, and someone will notice2. You have to be 100% ready before you level up3. Technical skill is enough to lead• How to flip the script and start showing up like the leader you areYou’ll Walk Away With:• The truth about why your career feels like it’s stalling — and how to fix it• A new understanding of visibility, storytelling, and ownership• Permission to stop waiting to be picked — and start claiming space• A clear roadmap to shift from behind-the-scenes support to undeniable leadershipResources + Next Steps:1. Follow the podcast so you don’t miss next week’s episode: How to Speak Up When It Feels Really Hard to Do So2. DM me on Instagram → @rxashleehayesTell me: What part of your career are you outgrowing?

Original Air Date: 7/7/2025Welcome to the very first episode of This Wasn’t My Plan!I’m Ashlee Klevens Hayes — founder of RX Ashlee, speaker, author, pharmacist (kind of), mom, wife… and someone who’s lived through her fair share of “this wasn’t my plan” moments.This podcast was built from the messy, unexpected, unglamorous pivots that happen when life doesn’t go according to plan — and what it actually takes to rebuild when the roadmap disappears.If you’re ambitious, high-achieving, and wondering, “How did I end up here?” — you’re in the right place.What We Cover in This Episode:• What happens when your plan falls apart (job loss, identity shifts, medical crises, career confusion… all of it)• Why we freeze when things feel out of control — and how that costs us clarity, freedom, and momentum• My personal “this wasn’t my plan” story: losing my job with a six-month-old baby and a husband in residency• How a single mindset shift helped me land over 30 job offers in 6 months — and sparked the business I have today• What you can expect from this podcast (spoiler: no fluff, real tools, radical transparency)• The question I’ll ask every guest: “Was this your plan?”You’ll Walk Away With:• A reminder that your detour isn’t a failure — it could be the turning point• The first step to regaining control of your career (it starts with your voice)• Permission to let go of the polished highlight reel and get honest about where you areIf you’re asking yourself “What now?” — this is your show.We’re talking real pivots, big questions, and building careers (and lives) that fit who you are now.Resources + Next Steps:1. Follow the podcast so you don’t miss next week’s episode:How to Find Your Voice When Speaking Up Feels Impossible2. DM me on Instagram @rxashleehayes or shoot me an email.Share your “this wasn’t my plan” story — I may feature it in a future episode.Let’s Stay Connected:• Instagram → @rxashleehayes• Website → rxashlee.comYou don’t need a perfect plan. You just need the willingness to keep going — even when the map changes.