Ashley Lamb-Sinclair on Storytelling for Change and Turning Underestimation into Power
About the Episode
In this episode, we’re joined by Ashley Lamb-Sinclair—award-winning educator, National Geographic Explorer, author, and the visionary behind 2892 Miles to Go. From her days in a Kentucky classroom to the frontlines of education reform and youth-led storytelling, Ashley shares how she’s built a life rooted in purpose, policy, and radical authenticity. This conversation explores what it means to lead from where you are, why stories can shift systems, and how being underestimated might just be your greatest strength.
Key Takeways
From the Classroom to the Capitol: After 14+ years as a high school English teacher, Ashley’s career expanded into edtech, policy advocacy, and national leadership. Her entrepreneurial spirit was sparked by an opportunity with the Gates Foundation—launching her into CEO territory, with plenty of lessons along the way.
Teacher of the Year—And Out of the Loop: As 2016 Kentucky Teacher of the Year, Ashley took a sabbatical to work in state education policy—only to discover how disconnected teachers were from decision-making. That experience inspired her to co-found KY Ed Policy, a platform to organize educators and make their voices heard in the legislature.
Writing as a Tool for Change: During the pandemic, Ashley authored Underestimated to Unstoppable, a rally cry for educators to embrace their strengths and lead authentically. The book introduces leadership archetypes—like “champions” and “guardians”—and shows how you don’t need a title to be a changemaker.
Collaboration > Perfection: Ashley’s writing process was collaborative and community-driven. With peer feedback and editorial support, she turned early drafts into a powerful guide for educators everywhere—reminding us that trusting others can elevate our own voice.
2892 Miles to Go - Youth Power in Action: Now leading 2892 Miles to Go, Ashley empowers youth across 15 sites to uncover local stories, tackle historical harms, and drive community impact. Projects include podcasting, data mapping, and social action campaigns—all rooted in place, purpose, and perspective.
Change Through Storytelling: At the heart of Ashley’s work is storytelling. She believes stories help people connect, remember, and act—and that they’re essential to understanding our history and healing systemic wounds. The organization’s name reflects that journey: 2,892 symbolic miles toward justice, truth, and transformation.
Being Underestimated Is Fuel: Ashley encourages women—especially those dismissed or overlooked—to lean into what makes them powerful. Sometimes, quiet growth becomes unstoppable momentum. And when you’re in a space that undervalues you? Leave. Your worth isn’t up for debate.
Unleashing Your Inner Queen = Leading With Vision: For Ashley, queendom means authenticity, courage, and commitment—no matter who doubts you. She draws strength from women like Cleopatra, who led with both intellect and conviction. The world needs more leaders willing to disrupt with integrity.
