We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dr. Ashley Wade a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Dr. Ashley thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you had a defining moment that you feel really changed the trajectory of your career, we’d love to hear the story and details.

A defining moment in my life is realizing that I can be more than my profession. I kept getting signals from the universe through patient experiences in the pharmacy. Here are a few that were memorable. One was being able to support a military vet on his quest to manage anxiety holistically. He came by the pharmacy and shared how proud of himself he was once he realized the power of mindfulness, while overcoming episodes of panic. There was another instance where after reviewing a patient’s labs with her about a bout with gout, she was so impressed by our interaction she asked, ” why aren’t you a doctor?” And of course I responded with, ” I am a Doctor of Pharmacy “with a chuckle. I also joined a Conscious community that inspired me to believe in myself to be dynamic and be open minded in regards to the future and the part I play in it. These moments were very inspirational and led me to believe in my purpose of creating a safe space for people to see the power in Discovering Self. I’ve since been able to add holistic author and now “interviewer” to my description.

Dr. Ashley , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a practicing pharmacist, holistic author, and most recently, an interviewer on Instagram. My niche is reading and sharing knowledge with people whether that’s through books pertaining to African American studies or interviewing interesting people who are doing great things in the City of Dallas. Since the release and promotion of my book in May, 2021 I’ve been able to connect with some incredible people who are very involved in contributing positively in the communities. I am the author of  “It’s a Journey; A Holistic Journal for Discovering Self” as a 5 module process for people who desire to connect with themselves on a deeper level. At each vending event I make it a point to take and introduce people to the books that I’ve researched that support the concept of Self Discovery as a viable solution to personal revelation and liberation. A few things that set me apart are my interest in understanding African history and psychology and my passion for teaching. These characteristics provide me the opportunity to connect with people on a unique, intellectual level. I teach people how to recognize their voice, reshape their perspective and guide them through introspective work. “It’s a Journey” is the first of many projects of ADH Pharmacy Consulting. I’d like people to know that I am committed to being visible, building relationships with people that I meet, and spreading the message of seeking knowledge on the quest to develop your Higher self. We all deserve to walk in our best version. I offer One-on- One and small group consultations through the modules of my book, motivational speaking at engagements centered around Self love, and empowering patients through medication therapy management/education. I look forward to integrating my knowledge into a viable curriculum.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

The biggest lesson I had to unlearn is that you don’t have to choose one “major” in life. I think society quietly conditions us to strive to be the best at One thing instead of exercising the spectrum of your gifts. I thought I had made it. Successful pharmacy manager with the #1 performing store in the North Dallas area, with a staff and patients that love me, yet feeling like there was more still in store for my life. My best advice is to not limit yourself. If there is something on your heart and mind to do or be, then keep an open mind and look for the Universe to light your path for it to happen. Also trust that all things will work out for your good. Believe in yourself and keep showing up for your goals.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Yes, I absolutely would. I honor my unconventional journey of becoming a pharmacist. Along the way I was able to receive inspiration from an early chemistry teacher who believed I have a frequency to learn science. I had many character-building experiences including working as a pharmacy technician for many years and teaching Chemistry at a STEM school in San Antonio. I enjoyed studying medicine in Pharmacy school, disease states, and being an advocate for patient care. One of my favorite things to teach is how the pharmacy experience works including how to get a prescription filled to the details of insurance billing. The health care system is not one that’s always easy to navigate or be a part of. I enjoy being able to share my perspective with others on a variety of issues, including the health care system. I also don’t take lightly the honor being a first-generation Black female doctor.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.readwithdrwade.com
• Instagram: readwithdrwade
• Facebook: Ashley Wade
• Other: link tree: linktr.ee/DrWade

Image Credits
Allison Wade (owner of Alli Photography) and Ruthie Foster.