Meet Ashlee Olbricht (Leppert) | U.S. Coast Guard Veteran, Author, Inspirational Speaker, Empowerment Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashlee Olbricht (Leppert) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashlee, how do you think about risk?
As a former U.S. Coast Guard aviator, my decision-making process often traces back to a crucial tool we utilized during pre-flight analysis – the RISK vs. GAIN model. This model incorporated categories like crew proficiency and weather conditions, assisting us in evaluating whether the potential risk of a mission was justified by the expected gain.

Beyond the military aviation environment, this decision-making tool has become a valuable asset in my day-to-day life. Some of the most impactful decisions I’ve made, ones considered high risk with the potential for high reward, mirror the principles of the RISK vs. GAIN model. Take, for instance, the decision to write my memoir, The Hurricane Within, where I exposed intimate details of my personal life to the world – a move deemed high risk. However, the immeasurable reward of being able to help countless individuals overcome various challenges in their lives far outweighs any initial apprehension. There’s a profound essence to the legacy you forge and the radiant light you impart to a world in desperate need of truth and healing.
 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Hello! “Heroes are defined more so by what they overcome than what they have accomplished” – Ashlee Olbricht (Leppert)

I am a veteran with 14 years of active-duty service in the United States Coast Guard. My primary job was an avionics electrical technician and flight mechanic instructor. I flew hundreds of dynamic missions during my time with the Coast Guard. I have trained over 60 basic aircrewman and flight mechanics who served bravely and effectively under my tutelage and beyond.

My proudest achievement has been serving my great nation as Coast Guard flight crew, flight mechanic instructor, and working with my crew to rescue and save many souls.

I have had the distinct honor of receiving a personal invitation to President Trump’s 2018 State of the Union Address. There, I was addressed directly by the President and commended, on behalf of myself and my crew, for our rescue work during the devastating Hurricane Harvey.

I have overcome hardships and met challenges with grace under the guidance of God. I have come away with valuable lessons to share. Life’s challenges have taught me to be not just a survivor, but someone who thrives in this amazing, beautiful, complicated world. My life’s experiences, combined with a desire to share my secrets to success, drove me to recount my life for the world to read. I recently released my memoir, The Hurricane Within, in print, e-book and audiobook formats. My recent graduation from Liberty University with my bachelor’s as well as my certification as a mental health coach and Professional Life Coach, has opened up more possibilities to help others heal through the building of faith and resiliency.

It is my aspiration and new passion project to share my life lessons, my zest for life, and my Faith through mentorship and public speaking engagements. I am an effective and inspiring motivational speaker and am available for group or individual mentorship and coaching.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I have an undying love for the great outdoors, and when it comes to planning the ultimate vacation for my best friend visiting, it’s all about embracing nature! Picture this: a spectacular day of deep-sea fishing, aiming for the prized Snapper or Mahi, ensuring the potential for a freshly harvested dinner. Of course, we’d also include a refreshing snorkel stop, immersing ourselves in the rejuvenating salt waters of Florida’s emerald coast. In case our fishing expedition doesn’t yield our meal, I’ve got the perfect backup plan – a visit to one of my go-to restaurants in the area, either Bochamps or Aly’s, both renowned for their top-notch ingredients and exceptional service.

In the following days, our mornings would kick off with the delightful choice of a nutritious smoothie bowl from Sunset Bowls or a delectable brunch item from the charming Ivy & Ale Boutique Nursery and Beer Garden. Weather permitting, our next adventure could involve a leisurely float down Turkey Creek, with strategic stops for a refreshing swim or two. Alternatively, we might opt to pack up all the beach essentials and head to Navarre Beach, embarking on a quest for the most unique shells the area has to offer. This way, every moment of our outdoor escapade becomes a cherished memory in the company of the best friend who deserves nothing less.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
All acknowledgment and glory are humbly directed to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In my darkest moments, the radiant and everlasting love bestowed by our Creator has not only granted me a peace that transcends understanding but also instilled in me a confidence rooted in His kingdom. Through His boundless love, the wounds that once defined me are now transformed. Today, I aspire to make everything I do a testament to the love that was graciously given to me first, allowing me to pour that love out to others. Jesus serves as the ultimate role model of a servant leader, shaping the quality of leadership I strive to emulate. My profound gratitude extends to my friends, family, and military comrades, who have supported my life’s mission with grace and unwavering love.

Website: https://ashleeleppert.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashlee_leppert_inspires/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashlee-leppert-veteran/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehurricanewithin/

Other: Calendy.com/my_life_coach

Image Credits
Photography Credit: Nathan Olbricht