MBP: Can you share a little about your journey as a single mom and what this season with your 12-year-old daughter looks like right now?
Ashley: This season feels like a mix of sweet and stretching. Being a single mom has taught me how strong I can be, but also how much I need grace—for myself and for my daughter. At 12, she’s becoming her own person, and I’m learning to guide her while also giving her space to grow. It’s a season of deeper conversations, more independence, and really cherishing the time we still have in this in-between stage.
MBP: You wear many hats—mom, businesswoman, worship leader, and community advocate. How do you prioritize what matters most in a full life?
Ashley: I’ve learned that not everything can be a priority at the same time. My faith and my daughter come first—those are my anchors. Everything else has to fit around that. I try to stay flexible and give myself permission to shift when needed. Some days I’m more present as a mom, other days I’m focused on work, but I try to keep my “why” at the center of it all.
MBP: What has motherhood taught you about strength, resilience, and trusting yourself?
Ashley: Motherhood has shown me a kind of strength I didn’t know I had. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about showing up, even when you’re unsure. I’ve learned to trust my instincts more and not second-guess every decision. Resilience, for me, looks like getting back up on hard days and choosing love and patience again.
MBP: How have you created a career that supports both your family and your calling?
Ashley: I’ve been intentional about building something that gives me flexibility and purpose. Real estate allows me to provide for my family while also connecting with people in meaningful ways. It’s not always easy, but I’ve aligned my work with my values, and that makes a huge difference.
MBP: What role does your faith and church community play in how you show up as a mom?
Ashley: My faith is everything—it’s what grounds me. It reminds me who I am and whose I am, especially on the days I feel overwhelmed. My church community gives me support, encouragement, and accountability. It helps me show up with more patience, more love, and a bigger perspective.
MBP: How do you stay connected to your daughter in this pre-teen stage, and what are you learning from her right now?
Ashley: Connection looks different now—it’s less about doing everything together and more about being available and present when she opens up. I’ve learned to listen more and not always jump in with advice. She’s teaching me to slow down, to be patient, and to see the world with fresh eyes again.
MBP: You’re deeply involved in outreach—why is giving back important to you, and how has it shaped your perspective on motherhood?
Ashley: Giving back keeps me grounded. It reminds me how much we have to be grateful for and how important it is to love people well. It’s also something I want my daughter to see and be part of—that serving others matters. It’s shaping her heart, and mine too.
MBP: What does “balance” look like for you in this season—and have you had to redefine it along the way?
Ashley: Balance used to mean doing everything well all at once. Now, it means being fully present wherever I am, even if everything else isn’t perfect. I’ve definitely had to redefine it—balance is more about rhythm than perfection.
MBP: On hard days, what keeps you grounded and moving forward?
Ashley: My faith, my daughter, and remembering why I started. I allow myself to feel the hard moments, but I don’t stay there. Even small steps forward count. Sometimes it’s just getting through the day with grace.
MBP: What would you say to another mom who feels stretched thin or is trying to do it all on her own?
Ashley: You don’t have to do it all, and you don’t have to do it perfectly. Give yourself permission to rest, to ask for help, and to let some things go. You’re doing better than you think. Just keep showing up—that’s what matters most.
Rapid Fire Questions
- Coffee or tea? Coffee always and all the ways!
- Early bird or night owl? Night owl unless I am at Disney World!
- Beach day or cozy night in? Beach day is great!
- Heels or sneakers? Cute sneakers, even with a dress!
- One word that describes you right now? Hustler
Ashley Duncan is a self-proclaimed hustler with a heart for people and her community. She works as a real estate agent with Keller Williams and also serves as a worship leader at South Coast Church. Ashley is a proud single mom to Kylee (12), who loves cheerleading and shares her mom’s passion for worship by serving with South Coast Church Kids. When she is able, Ashley enjoys shopping, going to the beach and the movies. She and Kylee love to take trips down to Disney World when they are able.
