The Ashley B. Cash Show

Ashley
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Education

In this podcast, we will be exploring all aspects of education. We will discover where our system is successful and failing. Through conversations with teachers, chancellors, government officials and more, we will identify the problems and how to change them. It's time we flipped this education!

  1. 6d ago

    Inside West Texas's New Child Mental Health Model | Dr. Sarah Wakefield

    In this episode of The Ashley B. Cash Show, Ashley sits down with Dr. Sarah Wakefield, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, for an in-depth conversation on children's mental health. Dr. Wakefield unpacks what it really means to be a pediatric psychiatrist, the role screens and isolation play in rising rates of anxiety and depression among kids, and how parents can model healthy boundaries around technology at home. The conversation turns to some sobering realities — including alarming statistics on youth suicide — and Dr. Wakefield offers clear guidance for parents on how to recognize warning signs, when a comment from a child should raise concern, and how to respond without over- or under-reacting. Ashley and Dr. Wakefield then dive into the groundbreaking work being done in West Texas: the TCHAT program bringing telehealth psychiatric care directly into schools, the new outpatient day treatment program at the Covenant Relational Health Center, and the region's first academic inpatient psychiatric unit for children, designed to keep families involved every step of the way. They close with a powerful discussion on building a true continuum of care — and how every parent, teacher, and community member has a role to play in supporting children's mental health. If you're a parent, educator, or anyone who cares about the wellbeing of the next generation, this is a conversation full of hard truths, hope, and practical guidance. https://www.providence.org/locations/covenant-health/childrens-hospital/relational-health-center https://tcmhcc.utsystem.edu/tchatt/ This episode discusses youth suicide and self-harm. If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. About The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley:  As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.

  2. Sep 21

    The Metaverse Meets the Classroom | Adam Mangana

    In this episode of The Ashley B. Cash Show, Ashley sits down with Adam Mangana, EdD, Founder and CEO of OptimaEd, to explore how virtual reality is reshaping what a classroom can be. Adam launched Optima Classical School, the world's first VR charter school, and he and Ashley dig into how immersive, concept-based learning lets students swim alongside whales in biology class or sit down with historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and America's Founding Fathers using their own writings. The conversation covers the difference between passive screen time and purposeful, guarded virtual learning, and why Adam believes real human connection — not just technology — is the secret to strong student outcomes. Ashley and Adam also dive into education savings accounts (ESAs) in Texas, how the new funding is expanding access to options like Optima for rural and underserved families, and the explosive growth of micro-schools as an alternative to traditional schooling. They close with a bigger-picture conversation about rethinking the "college for all" mindset, preparing kids to be problem-solvers in the age of AI, and why trades, entrepreneurship, and civic education deserve just as much respect as a four-year degree. If you're a parent exploring new options for your child's education, or just curious about where classrooms are headed next, this is a conversation worth your time. About The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley:  As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.

  3. Sep 14

    Charter Schools, VR Learning, and the Fight Against Failing Systems | Erika Donalds

    In this episode, Ashley sits down with Erika Donalds — educational entrepreneur, founder and chairman of the Education Freedom Foundation, chair of Education Opportunity at the America First Policy Institute, and founder/CEO of Optima Ed, the world's first virtual reality school platform. After 20 years in financial services, Erika pivoted to education when her own son struggled in a traditional school setting, launching a journey that's led her to found six classical charter schools and help thousands of families find the right educational fit. Ashley and Erika dig into what school choice really means (and the myths surrounding it), the difference between charter schools, private schools, micro schools, and hybrid models, and how education savings accounts are fueling a wave of innovation post-COVID. They also explore Erika's time on a Florida school board, the surprisingly low priority given to student outcomes in many districts, and her work building provider reciprocity across state school choice programs. The conversation goes deep on technology in the classroom — from VR field trips and AI-powered "small language model" historical figures kids can interview, to the case for bell-to-bell cell phone bans and why not all ed-tech delivers a real ROI. They close out talking teacher shortages, the case against state teacher certification, gaps in the science of reading within teacher colleges, and how parents can advocate for better outcomes wherever their kids learn. Topics covered: Erika's personal journey into school choice advocacyCharter vs. private vs. micro vs. hybrid schools, explainedThe Education Freedom Foundation and helping "edupreneurs" launch schoolsOptima Academy Online and VR-based classical educationBalancing screen time, AI tools, and classical pedagogyTeacher shortages, certification debates, and the science of readingAbout The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley:  As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.

  4. Sep 7

    Faith, TPUSA, and the $500K Scholarship Blueprint | Preston Parsons

    In this episode of The Ashley B. Cash Show, Ashley sits down with Preston Parsons — a 20-year-old senior at Texas Tech University who's already built the kind of resume most people spend a career working toward. Preston is the president and founder of Turning Point USA at Texas Tech, now one of the largest collegiate chapters in the country, and a national speaker on TPUSA's Pick Up The Mic Tour. Preston opens up about his personal faith journey, how a chance encounter with Charlie Kirk's message changed the course of his life, and what it's really like building a grassroots political movement on a college campus. Ashley and Preston dig into the importance of teaching young people to communicate, debate, and truly listen to one another — skills they both agree are missing in today's political climate. The conversation then shifts into practical territory: Preston breaks down exactly how he earned over $500,000 in scholarships, offering a step-by-step blueprint for parents and students on building a standout resume, finding local and national scholarships, and avoiding the common mistakes that leave money on the table. Ashley and Preston also explore the future of education — from the push for multiple career pathways in high school (college, trades, and entrepreneurship) to how AI is reshaping what skills students need to succeed. Whether you're a parent planning ahead for your kids' future, a student navigating scholarships, or someone who cares about where education and youth leadership are headed, this is a conversation packed with practical advice and real inspiration. About The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley:  As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.

  5. Aug 31

    Optimize Your Health | Jack Collier

    In this episode of The Ashley B. Cash Show, Ashley sits down with Jack Collier, founder and president of Optimize Health & Performance, to discuss the growing Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement, hormone optimization, preventative healthcare, and why taking control of your health starts with better information. Together, they explore why so many Americans are living with undiagnosed hormone imbalances, the importance of comprehensive bloodwork, and how personalized healthcare is changing the way people approach wellness. Ashley also shares her own health journey, discussing inflammation, nutrition, genetic testing, and the lifestyle changes that have helped her feel her best. The conversation also tackles some of today's biggest health topics, including: Hormone optimization for men and womenWhy "normal" lab ranges may not be enoughPreventative health versus reactive medicineNutrition, processed foods, and the MAHA movementBlood sugar, diabetes, and metabolic healthInflammation, gut health, and food qualityPeptides, recovery, and optimizing performanceThe future of personalized healthcare in AmericaWhether you're looking to improve your energy, understand your hormones, or simply become a better advocate for your own health, this episode offers practical insights and thought-provoking discussion on the future of wellness. Tune in for a conversation about empowering individuals to take charge of their health and why optimizing your body may be one of the most important investments you can make. About The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley:  As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.

  6. Aug 24

    Leadership, Communication & the Skills That Matter Most | Dr. Keegan Stewart

    In this episode of The Ashley B. Cash Show, Ashley sits down with Dr. Keegan Stewart, Chief of Staff to President Scott McDowell at Lubbock Christian University, to explore the leadership skills that shape successful students, employees, and organizations. Drawing from his doctoral research on employee onboarding, Dr. Stewart shares how creating a culture of belonging, intentional mentorship, and strong leadership can dramatically improve employee retention and organizational success. Together, Ashley and Keegan discuss why great leadership starts with communication, emotional intelligence, and the ability to navigate conflict with wisdom and humility. The conversation also dives into the growing impact of technology and social media on communication, the importance of reducing screen time, and why reading, debate, and public speaking are essential skills for the next generation. Ashley shares her vision for strengthening K–12 education by emphasizing communication, critical thinking, and real-world leadership skills that prepare students for life beyond the classroom. They also explore one of Ashley's greatest passions—personal financial literacy. From budgeting and investing to consumerism and long-term wealth building, they discuss why every student should graduate with the financial knowledge needed to build a secure future and why these lessons belong in both high schools and universities. Whether you're an educator, parent, business leader, or someone looking to grow personally and professionally, this episode offers practical insights on leadership, communication, financial responsibility, and preparing the next generation for lasting success. In this episode, you'll learn: Why effective onboarding creates stronger teams and better leadersHow communication and conflict resolution impact every area of lifeThe effects of screen time and social media on relationships and learningWhy debate, public speaking, and reading are essential life skillsHow financial literacy creates freedom, opportunity, and long-term successWhy leadership begins with intentional habits, lifelong learning, and personal responsibilityAbout The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley:  As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.

  7. Aug 17

    Inside Texas Education | Pam Little

    What does it take to truly transform education? In this episode of The Ashley B. Cash Show, Ashley sits down with Pam Little, Texas State Board of Education Member for District 12, for an in-depth conversation about the future of K–12 education and the policies shaping classrooms across Texas. Together, they unpack the recent State Board of Education meetings and discuss the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), curriculum reform, and the importance of moving from simply teaching students to ensuring they are actually learning. They explore why explicit instruction, phonics, and the science of education matter, while addressing concerns about scripted curriculum, excessive screen time, and standardized testing. Ashley and Pam also dive into the growing importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE), entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and skills-based learning—giving students multiple pathways to success beyond the traditional four-year college route. They discuss how schools can better prepare students for high-demand careers while breaking cycles of generational poverty. Whether you're a parent, educator, policymaker, or simply passionate about improving education, this conversation offers an inside look at how education policy is made and what changes could have the greatest impact on the next generation. In this episode, you'll learn: Why TEKS shape every Texas classroomThe debate over curriculum, pedagogy, and the science of learningHow Career & Technical Education is creating new opportunities for studentsWhy entrepreneurship and financial literacy belong in every schoolThe impact of screen time and technology on student learningWhat parents should know about education policy and how they can get involvedAbout The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley:  As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.

  8. Aug 10

    Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying | Jose Melendez

    In this episode of The Ashley B. Cash Show, Ashley sits down with Jose Melendez, director of the Taxpayer Protection Project and Government Reform & Oversight Coalition at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, for a timely conversation about where taxpayer dollars are really going—and why every Texan should be paying attention. Together, they unpack the growing concerns surrounding property taxes, school bonds, taxpayer-funded lobbying, local government spending, and government accountability. Jose explains how low-turnout elections can lead to billions of dollars in new debt, why transparency in public spending matters, and what reforms could be on the horizon for Texas. Ashley and Jose also discuss the importance of civic engagement, empowering citizens to understand policy, attend local meetings, ask questions, and hold elected officials accountable. Whether you're a homeowner, parent, taxpayer, or simply someone who wants to better understand how government decisions affect your daily life, this episode offers valuable insights and practical ways to get involved. Topics Covered: Property taxes and school bond electionsTaxpayer-funded lobbyingGovernment transparency and accountabilityLocal spending and fiscal responsibilityTexas DOGE and proposed tax reformsHow everyday citizens can make a differenceIf you're passionate about protecting taxpayers, improving government accountability, and creating stronger communities, this is an episode you won't want to miss. About The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley:  As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

In this podcast, we will be exploring all aspects of education. We will discover where our system is successful and failing. Through conversations with teachers, chancellors, government officials and more, we will identify the problems and how to change them. It's time we flipped this education!

Information

  • Creator
    Ashley
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Ashley B. Cash Show
  • Show Website
    The Ashley B. Cash Show

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