From Fashion School to Full-Time Cosplay: Ashlynne Dae on Choosing Passion Over Stability (Recorded at Nightmare Weekend Chicago)

In this episode of Conversations That Count, host David Shaft interviews cosplay icon Ashlynne Dae, live from Nightmare Weekend Chicago by GalaxyCon. Ashlynne shares how she went from graduating at the top of her fashion class to leaving the traditional industry behind — to pursue cosplay full-time.

🎭 What You’ll Hear:

• Ashlynne’s leap from fashion to full-time cosplay
• The early days of making costumes without knowing what cosplay was
• How to push forward when family and friends don’t understand your path
• The power of finding a supportive community through conventions
• How dressing like your favorite character can unlock real confidence
• Ashlynne’s Challenge to You:
• Attend a con that excites you. Talk to five new people. And see what happens when you follow your curiosity instead of your comfort zone.

This episode is packed with heart, humor, and a reminder that you’re allowed to rewrite the rules.

🎧 Listen now — and take your first step toward something that actually feels like you.

To learn more, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft

In this episode we talk with Corey and Katie about everything from stable business partnerships to holding ourselves accountable. These are both legends in the cosmetology industry.

To learn more about Cory and Katie, please visit:

www.instagram.com/hairdustry
msha.ke/hairdustryhost
www.gofundme.com/f/empowering-change-in-cambodia-help-me-make-it-happen
www.presleypoeandfriends.com

To learn more, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft

In this episode we talk about the value of networking and how to do it while properly building long term connections. Cathey does a great job outlining the way to grow your network while sustaining it. THIS IS ALSO THE RETURN OF CATHEY who is a STAPLE in our show!

To learn more, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft

In this episode we talk about finding our passion and not just a hobby. Oftentimes we never fully commit to anything because we are so afraid of failing that we never truly go all in. Candy has a superpower where when she does something she always commits to it fully.

To learn more about Candy, please visit:
@thebalaylama
https://sunlightspro.com
https://www.jamisonshaw.com

To learn more, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft

In this episode we talk about how important it is to understand where our time is going and how with a little bit of help we can make a lot of progress. Nicole does a great job helping her clients feel heard while still helping them understand where they can improve. We also talk about the 4 pillars of life; Health, Wealth, Relationship and Fulfillment. Nicole practices what she preaches so she's worth working with.

Nicole is the backbone of Salon Cadence’s operations, bringing her passion for service and strategic problem-solving to the team. Nicole ensures seamless communication with a passion for problem-solving. She manages social media, member engagement, and expert calls, helping salon owners optimize their potential. Nicole is dedicated to helping female entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses, by providing them with the tools and support they need to launch, scale, and succeed in their businesses. Her operational expertise ensures that Salon Cadence members receive the highest level of service and support.

To learn more about Nicole, please visit:
saloncadence.com
@saloncadence
Profit First for Salons: Transform Your Salon Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine

To learn more, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft

In this episode we discuss what it means to share your legacy in everything that you do. We also talk about how sometimes the biggest challenge is overcoming the fear of challenge.

To learn more, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft

In this episode we go over some of the best kept secrets by dating coaches around the world. The tips that we go over translate well into every industry.

Jordan is a dating coach who helps men take meaningful control over their dating lives. He teaches men to become attractive, meet high quality women, and run healthy relationships.

To learn more, visit:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:
https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft

This episode is all about remembering that there are endless opportunities out there and the importance of reminding ourselves of it. This is the last week we will not have a guest on the show for quite a while so take it in while you can.

To learn more, visit:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft

Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:

https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft