On the surface, Ashley Hadley is your typical middle schooler. But once you hear her speak, it’s clear—this sixth grader is anything but ordinary. As a young advocate for Tourette Syndrome awareness, Ashley is using her voice, creativity, and compassion to inspire people of all ages. And in doing so, she embodies the heart of House of Shine’s mission: showing others how to turn their stories, strengths, and even their struggles into a source of light.

This special re-release of her original podcast episode is more than a conversation—it’s a reminder that the parts of us we think might hold us back can actually become the parts that help us shine the brightest.

What Is Tourette Syndrome—and Why Ashley Speaks Up

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder that causes people to have involuntary movements or sounds called tics. For Ashley, that means she might blink, move, or vocalize in ways she can’t control. It’s something she’s had to learn to navigate in school, friendships, and everyday life.

But instead of hiding or being ashamed of her diagnosis, Ashley has chosen to speak up—and in doing so, she is breaking stigma and building empathy. Whether she’s handing out her handmade “Tic Tac Notes” to classmates or explaining her tics with grace and humor, Ashley shows that understanding starts with a conversation.

She reminds us that education is a powerful tool. And when used with kindness, it can be a bridge between differences. “I just want people to know that I’m still me,” she says. “My Tourette’s doesn’t change that.”

S.H.I.N.E.: A Framework for Turning Struggles Into Strengths

At House of Shine, we believe everyone has a unique Shine—your blend of Strengths, Hobbies, Interests, Needs, and Experiences—that makes you who you are. Ashley’s story is a masterclass in how each of these areas can be shaped by adversity, yet still lead to a life of purpose and joy.

• Strengths: Ashley’s courage, empathy, and creativity shine through in everything she does. Her willingness to educate others about Tourette Syndrome is a strength many adults struggle to muster.
  
• Hobbies & Interests: From art to advocacy, Ashley channels her energy into positive outlets that bring joy to others and fulfillment to herself.
  
• Needs: She recognizes her own need for understanding and patience—and rather than wait for others to figure it out, she takes the lead in creating that safe space.
  
• Experiences: Living with TS has shaped Ashley’s worldview, but it hasn’t limited her. If anything, it’s given her a deeper well of compassion and determination.
  

What’s remarkable is not just that Ashley is shining in spite of her adversity—it’s that she’s shining through it. Her story is proof that when we embrace our whole selves, even the hard parts, we can turn our “mess” into a message.in a conversation, a moment of discomfort, or a gentle nudge to show up for someone else.

From Setback to Spotlight

Ashley’s journey invites us to consider the adversities in our own lives—those labels, diagnoses, heartbreaks, or losses—and ask: what if this isn’t something to hide? What if it’s the very thing that could help me shine?

This isn’t about pretending that pain is easy or that struggle isn’t real. It’s about taking ownership of our stories and realizing that our challenges can become channels for connection, empathy, and even leadership.

When Ashley handed out Tic Tac Notes explaining her Tourette’s, she wasn’t just diffusing confusion—she was building bridges. When she spoke openly on the podcast, she wasn’t just sharing her truth—she was giving permission to others to do the same.

That’s the power of owning your adversity: it opens the door for others to own theirs.

Small Steps to Shine

If Ashley’s story teaches us anything, it’s that you don’t have to have a microphone, platform, or podcast to make a difference. Small acts of courage and kindness can ripple out in ways we never anticipate.

Here are a few ways you can use your adversity to help you shine:

• Start with self-awareness: Use the SHINE framework to explore how your struggles have shaped your strengths and story.
  
• Tell your truth: Whether in a journal, a small group, or on a larger stage—sharing your story brings light to others walking in similar shoes.
  
• Advocate for others: Sometimes our challenges sensitize us to needs around us. Use what you’ve learned to lift others.
  
• Turn pain into purpose: Ask yourself, “What could I do with this hard thing that would help someone else?”

Ashley didn’t wait to be older, more polished, or “qualified” to share her story. She saw a need, spoke from her heart, and let her light shine. You can, too.

Celebrate Your Shine—Exactly As You Are

Ashley’s episode is a beautiful reminder that shining doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being real. It means showing up, even when it’s hard. It means using who you are, exactly as you are, to brighten the world around you.

As Dr. Shine says often: “The world doesn’t need more perfect people—it needs more people willing to shine.”

Ashley Hadley is one of those people. And we’re better for having heard her voice.

So, what about you? What part of your story have you been hiding that might actually be the source of your strength? What challenge could you reframe as a calling? What if your adversity isn’t a detour—but the path itself?

Start small. Start messy. Start where you are. Just start. Because your Shine—struggles and all—is exactly what the world needs.

Want More?
🎧 Listen to Ashley’s episode now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.
📖 Read the companion blog and share it with someone who needs encouragement today.
💛 Learn more about the SHINE framework and how to discover your own purpose at houseofshine.org.