In our latest Travel Tuesday Interview series, we chat with Ash Ambirge, a location-independent entrepreneur and advocate for women. As the founder of a popular business blog, she empowers women to be bold in their careers. Her blog's name reflects her journey of overcoming adversity and building a thriving business against all odds.
Name: Ash Ambirge
Hometown: Pennsylvania
Website: themiddlefingerproject.org
Instagram: The.Middle.Finger.Project
Twitter: TMFProject
Ash Ambirge’s Story
Ash faced significant challenges growing up, including poverty and losing both parents by 21. After winning a scholarship to college and studying abroad, she hit rock bottom, living in her car with only $26. This moment inspired her to launch her successful business, motivated by her own struggles and the desire to empower others.
Her book, The Middle Finger Project, is available today, sharing her uplifting narrative and practical life lessons. This interview has insights valuable for everyone, not just women.
We conducted this Skype interview from different locations, discussing key topics around business, freelancing, and travel, tying it into both my blog and the courses I teach at two Texas universities.
Interview Highlights:
- Her journey from living in her car to earning her first $100,000 [1:46]
- Meaning behind her blog's title [9:40]
- Strategies for handling “Dream Zappers” [13:26]
- Conquering imposter syndrome [16:39]
- Finding confidence [19:49]
- Advice for her younger self [23:38]
- Managing overwhelm [25:14]
- Her travel beginnings [27:20]
- Winning a full college scholarship [27:38]
- Benefits of travel [31:09]
- Personal growth through travel [34:41]
- Memorable travel experiences [38:35]
- A typical workday [40:32]
- Reflecting on past choices [43:36]
- Building confidence in financial matters [46:39]
Highlights from the Interview
1. What sparked your love for travel?
“During my junior year, I was inspired by a classmate who studied abroad in Mexico. Her experiences sparked my curiosity, leading me to want to explore more of the world. I realized that travel was essential to my happiness.”
“After my difficult time in the Kmart parking lot, I quickly raised $2,000 from my blog readers and decided to take a leap. I flew away to start anew, without a safety net. That year, I made my first $100,000 from Santiago, Chile.”
2. Lessons learned from travel?
“Travel taught me that I thrive in uncertainty. I feel motivated and alive when exploring new places. I often wish educational systems would encourage young people to experience the world, as it reveals so much about ourselves.”
“When I visit different countries, I discover new aspects of my personality, adapting to various cultures and environments.”
3. Describe a typical workday.
“Many think it's hard to focus while traveling, but when you enjoy your work, it becomes challenging to stop. I find my work exhilarating and rewarding.”
4. Overcoming Dream Zappers?
“Dream Zappers can come from loved ones who mean well but may not understand your ambitions. It's crucial to seek advice from those who've achieved what you aspire to do. Relying on inexperienced voices can skew your perspective.”
“Imposter syndrome is the assassin of dreams.”
5. How do you tackle imposter syndrome?
“Imposter syndrome is a constant challenge, but we must learn to move forward despite it. As we grow, new opportunities arise, and feelings of self-doubt can linger. I keep a folder of compliments to remind myself of my value and accomplishments during tough times.”
6. Confidence development?
“I believe that facing difficulties builds resilience. It's enlightening to realize that even experienced individuals are often guessing. This understanding helps reduce the pressure we place on ourselves.”
7. Advice to your younger self?
“Start promoting your skills now! Selling your talent is a critical skill, regardless of your career path. Document your work in a portfolio, so you’re prepared for future opportunities.”
8. Building financial confidence?
“Teach clients the difference between freelancers and advisors. Position yourself as an advisor, guiding clients rather than just executing tasks. This shift in mindset reflects your value and expertise.”
For more on Ash Ambirge, explore her book, The Middle Finger Project, available everywhere books are sold.
