We recently connected with Ashley Herman and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, thanks for joining us today. Do you have any thoughts about how to create a more inclusive workplace?

Inclusivity starts from the top and truly has a trickle-down effect. You have to not only support this mission, but also practice what you preach. Representation doesn’t just take hiring and the appearance of inclusion, but also respecting other people’s experiences and perspectives. It takes not only advocating but also amplifying voices different than your own. Before owning my own business, I worked in a place I was able to not only hire with inclusivity in the forefront, but also educate the workplace on its importance and constantly strive improve the environment. It’s not just solved by onboarding, rather it’s a constant learning, educating and active mission that requires work and upkeep. The goal is to make all know this doesn’t alienate anyone. By raising representation, you aren’t giving anyone a bigger piece of the pie, but an equal one. There’s room for ALL of us.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

When moving back to Dallas, I wasn’t sure where to turn to find a community of creatives. I could see the talent, the desire and the potential, yet I couldn’t discover a hub for likeminded artists-of all types-to come together to collaborate. I am also excited and want to highlight our mission to not only create a place where artists can flourish, but truly mentor creative types toward becoming self-sustainable in their careers. We just expanded into a larger location so we can offer even more services, such as acting classes, teen classes, commercial workshops, writing rooms, an extensive library and have currently built the momentum to begin production on projects that have been in the works the past year.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I have learned to trust timing, and to let go of what I can’t control. I recently ran up against a project I was involved in that turned out to not quite align with my artistic mission or self. Once I released myself from the project, an even better one came along that involves a cause that’s a passion of mine! It taught me the importance of working with timing rather than racing against it. Deciding to have patience, adaptability and acceptance. Trust I have the ability to navigate the waves of change.

I also recently pivoted my career to include a focus on intimacy coordinating onset. Due to my own experience and the culture of the industry, I found it imperative to advocate for myself and others in the field. No one should fear risking their artistic integrity for a role.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

In a world that seems to focus on “hustle culture”, I had to implement taking time to step away both in every-day life and even take a hiatus from the industry as a professional. Also, choose to move back home to Dallas while still having plans to pursue my dreams. That’s why my business is so meaningful to me. There’s no reason this city I love shouldn’t be a major location for the arts.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.belmontcollectivetx.com
• Instagram: @hermieherm @belmontcollectivetx
• Twitter: @hermieherm

Image Credits
Julian Race Vanie Poyey