Ashley Bowers: Overcoming fears to rise as a young leader

COO of HomeSmart International Ashley Bowers became president of a national corporation at 28. With a customer base of 65-year-olds, she faced ridicule for being so young while also holding a significant leadership position.

Before walking out to speak at the company’s national conference, Bowers says she felt sick to her stomach and the tears were flowing. Someone offered to go get her boss and mentor.

Here, she shares why she said “No,” what happened next, and why it was a turning point for her.