Meet Ashley Dunn | Entertainment Reporter, producer and host of The Undunn Podcast

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Dunn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
Okay, so I turned 40 this year, and the quote that resonates deeply with me is “What’s for me, is for me”!!! I would hear this phrase, growing up in church and from my mom and aunts- but it wasn’t until I lived a “little life” that I began to understand the totality of this quote. And pursuing an unorthodox career in entertainment has reaffirmed how important this phrase is to my journey. Rejection is a given in this industry, and time and time again, I’ve had to remind myself that what’s for me will always find its way to me. Now let me be clear, I absolutely must put in the work and do my part, but ultimately what’s for me will be just that, for me. The same for you, you don’t have to worry, stress, or doubt your purpose in life or whether you’ll get this job or that one, or if you’ll get this house, be accepted or approved, because what’s for you will surely find its way to you. 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m an Entertainment Reporter, producer, and host of The Undunn Podcast.

When I was younger, I was always enamored with the entertainment space and pop culture. I would watch the entertainment news shows and get my mom to buy me the magazines at the store, that’s how I would stay updated with what was happening in the world of Hollywood. I knew very early on that I wanted to work in entertainment, but back then growing up in Dallas, TX, there was no representation for me to even consider a career in Hollywood. I went to college and while studying journalism, I started to dip my toes into fashion. At the time, I thought this was still a way for me to work in the industry. When I graduated in May of 2006, I set my sights on styling, I began marketing my styling business and started to attract clients. By this time I’m living in Houston, and working a 9-5 by day and styling and doing closets in the evenings and weekends.

This led to me doing TV segments for the local news stations in Houston, which then led to me becoming an on-air personality and producer. I would go on to do this for 8 years before deciding to relocate to Los Angeles in 2018. I wanted to focus more on entertainment and I knew that I would need to move to attract more entertainment-heavy opportunities.

Moving to Los Angeles, proved to be a challenge as my husband and I moved from Texas to LA, with literally nothing. We left everything behind, in pursuit of my dreams. But 5 1/2 years later, I can say it’s been worth it. I’m now a podcast host, entertainment reporter, and NAACP-nominated producer, I most recently worked as a producer on the Emmy-winning daytime talk show The Real.

My journey has stretched me In every sense of the word, but it’s been worth it. I’m so glad I didn’t let the rejections and difficult times deter me, from pursuing my dreams and the promises of God. If anything I’m stronger and wiser because of all that I’ve experienced. I’ve had to pivot many times in my career, and in every pivot, I learned the power of being able to quickly and effectively adapt and adjust but more importantly, I’ve learned of the power I have within. I’m still in pursuit of my dreams, new dreams if you will! As you evolve so do your dreams and goals. Earlier this year, I was speaking to Kelly Rowland and I asked for advice on turning 40, and she said “Remember to always give yourself Grace” So as I embark on this next act and chapter of my life and career, I will take this with me….Grace!

So stay tuned for what’s to come.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When my family, or friends visit we definitely go to the beach… Malibu or Venice depending on their vibe.

We dine at Malibu Cafe, Catch, Nobu Malibu, Craig’s, Roscoes, Harold and Belle’s, Fixins Soul Food, and Bossa Nova.

As far as activities go, I usually invite them to a premiere, or Industry event so they can experience Hollywood at its finest.

And for shopping, we do the Grove, Beverly Center, Westfield Century City, and Rodeo Dr.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband, Darryl has been pivotal in my journey. I’ll never forget telling him my dreams, and career aspirations very early in our relationship. He believed in me from the start and his support has never wavered. He is my best friend, my prayer partner, and my go-to for advice, guidance, and everything in between.

My family, my two sisters Veronica and Tracy along with my mom Brenda, and 3 beautiful nieces Victoria, Morgan, and Peyton have all been instrumental in my journey. We have a family group text, and we text every day! They have been there encouraging me, pushing me, and believing in me every step of the way. There’s no way I would have gotten through a lot of tough moments without their unconditional love and support.
They are my day 1’s

My friends are always pouring into me and providing the laughter and support I need! We support each other in every aspect. They are always a phone call, text, or FaceTime away.

Website: www.ashleydunnstyle.com

Instagram: @iamashleydunn

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-dunn-256a185b/

Other: https://linktr.ee/undunn

Image Credits
The photos are my photos