Welcome to Initial Step!
On this channel, we bring you short, engaging conversational interviews where we talk with talented individuals from the creative sector, focusing especially on those who have risen from low socioeconomic or working-class backgrounds.
Our aim? To shine a light on the barriers that often exist when trying to break into creative roles. But more importantly, to showcase inspiring stories of how these challenges can be overcome. Join us as we explore the journeys of remarkable people, learn about their struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. Because no matter where you start, breaking into the creative sector is possible, and we’re here to prove it.
Make sure to subscribe to avoid missing any episode!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Initial Step!
On this channel, we bring you short, engaging conversational interviews where we talk with talented individuals from the creative sector, focusing especially on those who have risen from low socioeconomic or working-class backgrounds.
Our aim? To shine a light on the barriers that often exist when trying to break into creative roles. But more importantly, to showcase inspiring stories of how these challenges can be overcome. Join us as we explore the journeys of remarkable people, learn about their struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. Because no matter where you start, breaking into the creative sector is possible, and we’re here to prove it.
Make sure to subscribe to avoid missing any episode!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ashleigh grew up in Leicester in a working-class, single-parent household, caring full-time for his disabled mother from his teens into his twenties. While his brothers moved on, Ashleigh took on the responsibility of assisted living care. A commitment that shaped his life, his opportunities, and his sense of purpose.
Despite limited options and financial struggles, he started volunteering remotely in the gaming industry. A move that opened the door to a professional career in hosting game services, onboarding influencers, and building brand partnerships. His journey from council estate to business development shows the resilience, guilt, and determination behind breaking class barriers.
In this episode, Ashleigh reflects on:
- Growing up in a tight-knit but changing council estate community
- Balancing care responsibilities with career ambitions
- Moving on from his working-class roots while staying grounded
- The lack of working-class representation in the gaming world
- How education and remote work shaped his opportunities
👉 This is more than a career story, it’s about navigating identity, class, and care while building a new future.
🔔 Subscribe for more inspirational stories and insights into those from working class and low socioeconomic backgrounds!
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🗣️ Comment below with your thoughts and questions for Ashleigh!
Follow Us:
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/initialstep.co.uk/
- Twitter - https://x.com/step_initial
- Apple podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/initial-step/id1758128198
- Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5ZizcM5a2HEQKcaAPToysk?si=79fb1e8a830a4ec9
- Linktree - https://linktr.ee/initialstep
Follow Ashleigh
- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleigh-laywood/
- Twitter / X - @bashtonnn
Thanks for listening!
#initialstep #workingclass #lowsocioeconomicbackground #creativeindustry #TVandFilm #Advertising #PRandMarketing #CreativeJourney #CareerInspiration #anyonecanachievesuccess
#WorkingClassStories #GamingIndustry #SocialMobility #ClassAndCare
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.