Meet Ashley Urbansky: The Oceanside Marketing Maven, Gals That Hike Leader & Living Proof That Making Friends in San Diego as an Adult Is Not Only Possible—It's Actually Magic 🥾✨
Featuring: Ashley Urbansky
Instagram: @aurbansky
Gals That Hike Leader, Marketing Strategist, Dog Mom x2, Denver/Oceanside Split-Timer, Travel Content Creator, Silent Disco Enthusiast, Breakfast Taco Connoisseur
Picture this: It’s June 2023. Peak midsummer vibes. We’re hosting a dreamy midsummer-themed brunch at Truckstop in Pacific Beach (RIP Truckstop, you were loved) aaaaaand in walks Ashley Urbansky… probably not knowing that she was about to become THAT friend.
You know the one.
The friend who gives you marketing advice over iced coffee, convinces you to book the spontaneous road trip, sends you her dogs’ Instagram highlights when you’re having a bad day, and somehow makes you believe you can absolutely crush that intimidating hike even though you haven’t worked out since... welllllllll, let’s not talk about that.
She showed up to that midsummer dreamyyyyy brunch.
And not just “showed up” like it was a casual five-minute drive down the street. Ashley trekked all the way down from Oceanside to Pacific Beach, which, if you know San Diego girls, you know is basically a full-blown act of devotion. But our Ash boo came aaaaaaaaanyway.
And then? She came back again.
The very next month, she made her way back down to our Eras Tour brunch at Corner Draft House in Bankers Hill, where friendship bracelets were flying, “Long Live” was basically the emotional support anthem, and a bunch of women who had just met were somehow already acting like they had known each other for years.
Because when you find your people? Geography becomes a minor detail. Friendship becomes the main character. And suddenly, one brave little yes turns into another yes, then another, and before you know it you’re making friendship bracelets with women you just met, belting out Taylor Swift, and thinking, “Wait... is this what I’ve been missing?”
Spoiler alert: Yes. Yes, it is.
somewhere around 1,080 days, 35 months, and almost 3 whole years later, not that we’re counting or anything, Ashley hasn’t just attended Gals That Brunch. She’s become part of the very heartbeat of it all.
And here’s the thing about Ashley’s story that makes us want to grab you by the shoulders and shake you lovingly: She just showed up. That’s it. That’s the whole secret.
She didn’t wait to feel ready. She didn’t wait until she knew someone. She didn’t let the “what ifs” or the “I don’t knows” or the very real fear of walking into a room full of strangers talk her out of it. (were those probaly part of the equation, most likely yet…..)
She just... came. And then? She kept coming back.
Midsummer Dream brunch turned into Eras Tour brunch. Eras Tour brunch and a few more events later, turned into volunteering on our GTB team. Volunteering turned into becoming the leader Gals That Hike. And now, nearly three years later, Ashley Urbansky isn’t just part of this community, she’s woven into the very fabric of it.
Spoiler alert: Yes. Yes, it is.
This is how making friends in San Diego as an adult actually works. Not through some magical algorithm or perfect timing or being the most outgoing person in the room. It works through showing up, saying yes, and giving yourself repeated chances to sit at the table (or hit the trail) until it starts to feel like your table. Your trail. Your people.
Community isn't chemistry all at once. Most of the time, it's small yeses, over and over, until one day you look around and realize: Oh. I have people. Real people. People who get me.
That's Ashley's story. And honestly? It could totally be yours toooooo :).
The Girl Who Moved to San Diego for Love, Stayed for the Vibes & Built a Whole Life Here
Let's back up for a second and talk about who Ashley actually is, because this gal is absoltely living and we’re super excited to gab about her todayyyyyy…
Wander back with us to the year of 2018, Ashley moved to San Diego with her husband. And listen, moving to a new city is hard enough. But moving to a new city where you don't know anyone, where your close friends and family are still back in Ohio, where you're trying to build a whole new life from scratch? That takes guts.
Since then, Ashley has:
Adopted two adorable pups (dog mom status: unlocked)
Bought a place in Oceanside (coastal living queen)
Bought another place in Denver and now splits her time between both cities (because why choose when you can have beach AND mountains?)
Built a thriving marketing career helping businesses grow and connect authentically with their customers
Become a Gals That Brunch volunteer, then leader
Launched Gals That Hike
Traveled to Greece, France, and is justtttt landed back from her first solo trip to Asia
Oh, and she's also really into "woo woo" stuff, silent discos, spa days, and books she'll forget about as soon as she closes the cover. (Relatable queen energy.)
When we asked Ashley what she's most passionate about in this season of life, here's what she said:
"I'm really passionate about finding joy in everyday moments and maintaining balance. Life throws curveballs and the news cycle can be heavy, so focusing on being present and happy with where I am has been really important for my mental health."
Can we just pause and appreciate that for a second? In a world that's constantly telling us to do more, be more, hustle harder, Ashley is over here choosing presence. Choosing joy. Choosing to actually enjoy the life she's building instead of just racing toward the next milestone.
That's the kind of wisdom that doesn't come from a podcast or a self-help book. It comes from lived experience. From making hard choices. From learning (sometimes the hard way) that the life you're living right now matters just as much as the life you're building toward.
How Her Friends Describe Her (Spoiler: She's Kind of a Rockstar)
We asked Ashley how her friends would describe her in three words, and honestly, both answers are chef's kiss:
Ashley's answer: Driven, adventurous, and funny (maybe dry or even awkward humor)
Her husband's answer: Vibrant, strong-willed, and free-spirited
Not bad at all, right? But here's what we'd add to that list:
Generous. Ashley is the friend who shares everything, marketing tips, restaurant recs, travel hacks, dog videos, life advice. She never gatekeeps. She's always lifting other women up.
Authentic. What you see is what you get with Ashley. She's real about the hard stuff, the messy stuff, the "I'm figuring it out as I go" stuff. And that realness? It makes everyone around her feel like they can be real too.
Brave. Ashley is the kind of woman who moves across the country a week after getting married to sleep on a friend's couch while her husband sells their house in Ohio. Who buys a house in Denver on a whim because it brings her joy. Who leads hikes for women she's never met before. Who books solo trips to Asia during a career transition because YOLO, right?
That's not reckless. That's brave. That's trusting yourself enough to follow your heart even when the path isn't perfectly clear.
And honestly? That's exactly the kind of energy we all need more of in our lives.
Ashley's Perfect Weekend (And Why It's the Ultimate San Diego Vibe)
Want to know what Ashley's perfect weekend looks like? Because it's basically the blueprint for living your best life in San Diego:
"Ideally I'm on a spontaneous road trip somewhere nearby for the weekend, but if I'm staying local, I'll grab morning coffee and walk the Oside strand (looking for dolphins because OFC), read on the beach, head to a brewery for lunch and a beer, and end the night with something relaxing like a sound bath or maybe the complete opposite and go to a concert…. Yeah, let's get crazy and add getting another tattoo to this dream weekend too."
OKURRRRR ASHHHHHH. We see you. We see you living that balanced life where you can flow between sound baths and concerts, beach reads and spontaneous tattoos, chill mornings and wild nights.
This is the Ashley energy. This is what she brings to Gals That Hike, to her friendships, to this whole community. She understands that a good life isn't about picking one vibe and sticking to it forever. It's about honoring all the different parts of yourself, the adventurous part and the homebody part, the spiritual part and the "let's get another tattoo" part.
You don't have to be one thing. You get to be all the thingsssssss.
The Thing People Don't Realize About Ashley at First (But Should)
Here's something Ashley wants you to know:
"I've been told I can seem intimidating at first, I can definitely have RBF, but in reality I'm a goofy, fun-loving person who says weird things and doesn't take herself too seriously."
Can we talk about this for a second? Because this is SO important for anyone who's nervous about coming to their first Gals That Brunch event (or any social gathering, really).
Sometimes the women who seem the most confident, the most put-together, the most "she definitely has her life figured out" are actually just... regular humans. Goofy humans. Humans who say weird things and have RBF and are just trying to make friends like everyone else.
The intimidation you feel? It's usually just projection. The woman across the table who seems so cool and confident? She's probably nervous too. She probably almost bailed this morning. She probably spent way too long picking out her outfit and then second-guessing whether she should even come.
But she showed up anyway. Just like Ashley did. Just like you can too.
And here's what happens when you push through that initial intimidation: you discover that the "intimidating" woman is actually hilarious. And kind. And probably just as relieved as you are to have someone to talk to.
That's the magic of spaces like Gals That Hike and Gals That Brunch and Gals That Supper and Gals That Read and Gals That Craft and all the other fun iterations of communityyyyyy. We're creating environments where the intimidation melts away. Where RBF turns into real smiles. Where strangers become friends because someone was brave enough to say the weird thing or ask the awkward question or admit "I'm new here and I don't know anyone."
What's Lighting Ashley Up Right Now
(And Why It's So Inspiring)
Life threw Ashley a curveball recently, she was laid off from her job. And you know what she did? She didn't spiral. She didn't panic. She didn't let it derail her.
She hasss fullly leaned into it.
"With some unexpected free time after being laid off, I'm leaning (even more) into travel and worry about the cost later….YOLO, right? I'm taking my first solo trip, heading to Asia. It originally started as a healing Bali retreat and ended up being perfectly timed for this life transition with extended time in Singapore and Taipei sandwiching it."
Can we just take a moment to celebrate this? Because this is what resilience looks like. This is what trusting yourself looks like. This is what choosing joy and adventure even in the middle of uncertainty looks like.
Ashley could have spent this season stressed, anxious, frantically applying to jobs, spiraling about the future. And honestly? That would have been totally valid. Losing your job is scary. Life transitions are fricken HARDDDDD.
But instead, she's choosing to see this as an opportunity. A chance to travel. A chance to heal. A chance to lean into the unknown and trust that things will work out.
"Things will ALWAYS (eventually) work out, I tell myself."
That's the Ashley energy. That's the wisdom we all need tattooed on our foreheads (or maybe just saved in our Notes app for the hard days).
If your current era had a name, what would it be?
Ashley's answer: Awakening ✌️
And honestly? We're so here for it. We're here for the solo travel. We're here for the healing. We're here for the woman who's brave enough to step into the unknown and trust that she'll figure it out along the way.
Long live women who choose adventure over fear. Long live Ashley's Awakening Era. Long live all of us learning to trust ourselves a little bit more.
Why Ashley Leads Gals That Hike (And How It's Changing Lives)
Let's talk about Gals That Hike because this monthly gathering is genuinely one of the special happening in the San Diego women's community right now.
If you've been wondering how to make friends in San Diego as an adult, or you're searching for women's social groups in San Diego that don't feel forced or awkward, or you're just looking for things to do in San Diego for women that involve fresh air and good conversation, let us introduce yooooooooooooooou to this beautiful monthly hiking series that Ashley has built.
What Is Gals That Hike San Diego? (And Why It's Different)
On paper, Gals That Hike is a monthly hiking experience where women gather to explore some of the best trails in San Diego, get their endorphins flowing, and connect with other incredible women in a natural, welcoming environment.
But in reality? It's so much more than that.
It's where women exhale. Where they remember what their bodies can do. Where they push themselves a little bit further than they thought they could go. Where they scream into the wind at the top of a challenging climb and feel free. Where they take off their shoes to wade through a flooded path and laugh until their stomachs hurt. Where they show up nervous and alone and leave feeling accomplished, connected, and like "I can't believe I get to live here."
As Ashley puts it:
"Nature is so healing, and I figured this could bring energy and excitement to others as well. New hikers and experienced hikers, alike!"
And here's what makes Ashley such a special leader: she genuinely cares. She's not just checking a box or fulfilling a role. She's creating spaces where women feel welcomed, challenged, celebrated, and seen. She's building community, one trail at a time.
What Drew Ashley to Leading Gals That Hike
Here's Ashley's origin story (and honestly, it's so relatable):
"I joined a Gals That Walk event in Encinitas and loved how it felt like I'd accomplished so much, all before like 10am? Morning activities energize the whole day for me, and that meetup helped me connect with people I hadn't met at other events. Since I missed hiking from my time in Denver, leading a hiking spinoff popped into my mind."
Can we just appreciate this for a second? Ashley didn't wait for someone to hand her a leadership role. She didn't wait for permission. She saw a need (more hiking! more morning energy! more chances to connect!), and she stepped up to fill it.
That's what community-building looks like. It's not about waiting for someone else to create the thing you're looking for. It's about being brave enough to create it yourself aaaaaaand then WALLLAHHHH inviting other women to join you.
And here's the beautiful part: when you do that? When you step up and lead? You don't just change your own life. You change the lives of every single woman who shows up to your event. Every woman who almost bailed but came anyway. Every woman who was nervous about hiking alone but found her people on the trail.
This movement belongs to all of us. There's no Gals That Brunch without Ashley. And there's no Gals That Brunch without you, either. Every single woman who shows up, who brings a friend, who posts about it on Instagram, who sends a "loved meeting you!" DM after an event, you're all building this together.
Community isn't something that happens to you. It's something you actively create, one small yes at a time.
What Ashley Hopes Women Experience at Gals That Hike
"I want them to feel accomplished and like they made meaningful new connections. I want them to walk away thinking, 'That was fun. I feel good. I belong here.'"
I belong here.
Those three words are everything, aren't they? Because so often, especially as adult women trying to make friends in a new city (or even a city we've lived in for years), we walk through life feeling like we're on the outside looking in. Like everyone else has their friend groups figured out. Like we missed the memo on where the cool girls hang out.
But here's the truth: most women feel that way. Most women are craving deeper connection. Most women are tired of surface-level small talk and Instagram-perfect friendships that don't actually fill their cup.
And that's exactly why spaces like Gals That Hike matter so much. Because they create environments where "I belong here" isn't just a hope, it's a reality.
Ashley's Favorite Part of Seeing Women Connect on the Trail
"There's no pretense or pretending on the trail. We're authentically connecting through chats AND talk timeouts because we're breathing too hard, falling on our butts and laughing, or taking off our shoes to wade (or dance) through a flooded path."
THIS. This is the magic.
You can't fake it on a hike. You can't pretend you're not out of breath when you're literally gasping for air. You can't maintain your "cool girl" persona when you're slipping on rocks and laughing at yourself. You can't keep your walls up when everyone's taking off their shoes to dance through a flooded trail together.
The trail is the great equalizer. It doesn't care if you're a CEO or a student, if you're wearing Lululemon or Target leggings, if you've hiked a hundred times or this is your first time ever. On the trail, you're all just women moving your bodies, breathing hard, laughing together, and cheering each other on.
And that's where real friendship happens. Not in the perfectly curated moments. In the messy, sweaty, "I can't believe we just did that" moments.
What First-Timers Should Know (From Ashley Herself)
If you're nervous about coming to your first Gals That Hike event, Ashley wants you to know this:
"Most people are coming solo too. We've had plenty of first-timers join hikes even if they've never been to a brunch event before. You won't feel out of place. Everyone can join the WhatsApp chat beforehand so you can start getting to know people, and I'm always just a message away. It's normal to feel nervous or want to bail last minute, but once you come, you'll be glad you did."
Read that again: It's normal to feel nervous or want to bail last minute.
Ashley gets it. We all get it. Every single woman who's ever walked into a Gals That Brunch event (or any social gathering where she didn't know anyone) has felt that same flutter of nerves. That same "maybe I should just stay home" whisper.
But here's what we know from years of hosting these events: The women who push through the nerves are always, always glad they did.
Not because the event was perfect. Not because they instantly became best friends with everyone there. But because they proved to themselves that they could do the hard thing. They could show up. They could be brave. They could take one small step toward the life and the friendships they actually want.
And that? That's everything.
What Makes a Hike Feel Really Good (According to Ashley)
"Good scenery is most important to me. It's the best when a hike feels rewarding with a 'scenic payoff' especially if there's a lot of effort. And existence of waterfalls, always."
Ashley's favorite San Diego hike? Torrey Pines. "Those views :)"
And honestly, if you've never hiked Torrey Pines, add it to your list immediately. The dramatic cliffs, the ocean views, the feeling of being completely immersed in nature even though you're still technically in the city, it's pure magic.
This is exactly the kind of local knowledge that makes Ashley such a valuable resource for women trying to build a life they love in San Diego. She knows the trails. She knows the views. She knows which hikes are worth the effort and which ones will leave you feeling like "I can't believe I get to live here."
This Season Is Teaching Ashley Not to Stress So Much (And We're Taking Notes)
Between leading Gals That Hike, splitting time between San Diego and Denver, navigating a career transition, and traveling the world, Ashley's got a full plate. But here's what this season is teaching her:
"It's teaching me not to stress so much. When I feel overwhelmed, I'm realizing I'm often doing it to myself. I'm in charge of my time and if something that's supposed to be fun starts feeling stressful then I need to pull back on the to-do plans or agenda. Let's not make the fun of life feel like a chore."
Can we get this embroidered on a pillow? Framed on a wall? Tattooed somewhere visible?
Let's not make the fun of life feel like a chore.
How many of us are guilty of this? Of turning hobbies into obligations? Of scheduling so many "fun" things that we're exhausted? Of saying yes to everything and then resenting all of it?
Ashley's wisdom here is so simple but so profound: You're in charge of your time. You get to decide what stays and what goes. You get to pull back when something that's supposed to be fun starts feeling like a burden.
This is especially important for women who are trying to build community and make friends. Because here's the thing: friendship shouldn't feel like a chore. Community shouldn't feel like another thing on your to-do list.
If it does? That's your sign to pull back. To reassess. To remember that the whole point of this is joy, connection, and actually enjoying your life, not just filling your calendar.
What Helps Ashley Stay Grounded
"Meditation and breathing exercises are something I try to incorporate into my daily life now (thanks therapy). And if I'm away from my dogs a bit, I'm likely replaying their videos or finding other people's dogs to pet. Have you noticed someone at GTB events saying 'I loooove youuuu' to passerby dogs? That's me."
OKAY BUT SAME THOUGH. Dog content is therapy. Petting random dogs on the street is self-care. This is science.
And can we also appreciate Ashley's openness about therapy? About the fact that meditation and breathing exercises are tools she's learned and actively practices? In a world that often stigmatizes mental health support, Ashley's casual "thanks therapy" is so refreshing and normalizing.
Taking care of your mental health isn't weakness. It's wisdom. And Ashley is living proof of that.
The Rhythm That Keeps Ashley Feeling Like Herself
"Stupid and unhealthy as it might be, I post a lot to my Instagram stories, just a stream of consciousness, and it's almost like journaling for me. It gives me the ability to speak my mind and be authentic. Feeling heard and understood for who I am is really important to me."
First of all, this isn't stupid or unhealthy. This is real. And honestly, it's so relatable.
Sometimes the things that keep us grounded aren't the "wellness industry approved" habits. They're not the morning routines or the gratitude journals or the 5am workouts. Sometimes they're the quirky, personal rituals that help us process life and feel like ourselves.
For Ashley, that's Instagram stories. For you, it might be voice memos to your best friend. Or long drives with the music loud. Or baking at midnight. Or rewatching the same comfort show for the hundredth time.
Whatever helps you feel heard and understood? That's valid. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Marketing Nerd, But Make It Hot: Why Ashley's Career Wisdom Is Actually Life Wisdom
Ashley is a total marketing nerd in the best way, and honestly, her perspective on storytelling, strategy, and authentic connection applies to so much more than just business.
What Ashley Loves Most About Marketing
"I like how marketing is the ability, when done right, to connect with customers authentically or solve their problems. You get the unique opportunity to introduce someone to something they might not know about—and it just might become their new favorite thing."
And here's the part that makes our hearts happy: Ashley doesn't just talk the talk. She walks the walk.
"Knowing how hard it is to build a business, especially as an SMB, you'll catch me sharing my favorite things/places on IG and leaving Google Reviews in my personal life :)"
This is the Ashley energy. Generous. Supportive. Always lifting up the local businesses and people she loves. Never gatekeeping.
And honestly? This is exactly the kind of community-minded thinking that makes San Diego (and the world) a better place. When we actively support the businesses, creators, and people doing good work? When we share our favorite spots and leave reviews and tell our friends? We're not just being nice—we're building an ecosystem where everyone can thrive.
Marketing and Storytelling: Where the Magic Happens
"Marketing really is about the story, the journey and emotion behind a human. You can't just say a product has X, Y, and Z and be successful. Who cares? Inspire with awe, build connections and trust, solve problems or at least, make people laugh."
THIS. This is why Ashley is so good at what she does. She understands that people don't buy products, they buy stories, connections, and solutions to their problems.
But here's the thing: this doesn't just apply to marketing. This applies to friendship. To community-building. To how we show up in the world.
Nobody wants to hear your resume. Nobody wants the highlight reel. What people actually crave is the story. The messy middle. The journey. The "here's what I'm figuring out" honesty.
That's what builds connection. That's what builds trust. That's what makes people think, "Oh, she gets it. She gets me."
What People Misunderstand About Marketing (And Why It Matters)
"People often think marketing is just putting out an ad or a piece of creative, but there's a lot of strategy behind it. It involves research, understanding what drives customers, and translating that insight into something that meets both customer needs and business goals. Too often business teams want to push a message that doesn't matter to a customer, or doesn't take a customer-first mindset. Marketing works best when it's customer-centric and involved early in the process, not added at the last minute."
Okay, so this might sound like business jargon, but stick with us because there's a deeper truth here that applies to community-building:
You can't build something meaningful if you're not actually listening to what people need.
This is true in marketing. It's true in friendship. It's true in community spaces like Gals That Brunch.
We don't just throw events on the calendar and hope people show up. We listen. We pay attention to what our community is craving. We create spaces that actually meet women where they are, whether that's brunch for the extroverts, hikes for the nature lovers, book clubs for the introverts, or work-from-home meetups for the remote workers who are craving human connection.
Customer-centric marketing = community-centric event planning. It's all about understanding what people actually need and then creating something that serves them.
What Ashley's Learned Through Work That Helps in Everyday Life
"Effective communication—really the importance of clear, concise communication. You only have so much time to capture someone's attention, so you learn to understand the most critical points and get to it. We like to call it 'Reasons to Believe.'"
Reasons to Believe. We're obsessed with this framework.
Because here's the thing: whether you're writing marketing copy, planning an event, or just trying to convince your friend group to try that new restaurant, you need to give people a reason to believe. A reason to care. A reason to say yes.
And the best "reasons to believe" aren't complicated. They're simple, clear, and speak directly to what people actually want.
For Gals That Brunch, our "reasons to believe" are:
You don't have to come with a friend (most people come solo!)
The vibe is genuinely welcoming, not cliquey
You'll leave feeling more connected, not more lonely
This is how you actually make friends as an adult
See? Simple. Clear. True.
Ashley has also used this skill to run her Airbnb in Denver, from messaging and photos to how she communicates with guests. Because good communication isn't just a work skill. It's a life skill.
If Ashley's Work Style Was a Brand Mood Board
"Visually it would probably look like bold colors and high energy to reflect the fast-moving, dynamic environments I tend to work in (e.g. startups, incubators). Visuals would include representation for empowerment, growth, authenticity, camaraderie, creativity and fun. As a manager I like to empower others and give people opportunities to try new things, build confidence and grow, like my favorite manager did for me!"
Empowerment. Growth. Authenticity. Camaraderie. Creativity. Fun.
This isn't just Ashley's work style. This is her whole vibe. This is what she brings to Gals That Hike, to her friendships, to every space she enters.
And can we just appreciate that last line? "As a manager I like to empower others and give people opportunities to try new things, build confidence and grow, like my favorite manager did for me!"
This is what good leadership looks like. Not hoarding opportunities. Not gatekeeping knowledge. But actively creating space for other people to grow, to try new things, to build confidence.
Ashley is doing this every single month with Gals That Hike. She's creating opportunities for women to try something new (hiking!), build confidence (I can do hard things!), and grow (I have people! I belong here!).
That's not just event planning. That's leadership. That's legacy-building.
San Diego + Denver, According to Ashley: The Holy Grail of Recommendations
Since Ashley splits time between San Diego and Denver, she's basically a walking, talking recommendation engine for both cities. And we're here for it.
What Ashley Loves Most About Each City
San Diego: "San Diego remains my #1 place. I used to dread coming home from vacations before living here, but life is a vacation now!"
Can we just let that sink in for a second? Life is a vacation now.
This is what happens when you build a life you actually love. When you choose a place that fills your cup. When you stop waiting for "someday" and start living now.
Ashley isn't waiting for retirement to enjoy her life. She's not waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect circumstances. She's living her best life right now, in this season, in this city.
And honestly? That's the whole vibe we're trying to cultivate here at Gals That Brunch. Life is happening right now. Your people are out there right now. The adventures, the friendships, the "I can't believe this is my life" moments, they're all available to you right now.
You just have to show up for them.
Ashley's San Diego Recommendations (AKA Your New Weekend Plans)
Favorite coffee spot in San Diego: Superbloom, for those Mission Bay views
Listen, if you haven't been to Superbloom yet, what are you even doing? The views alone are worth the trip, but add in excellent coffee and you've got yourself a perfect San Diego morning. This is exactly the kind of spot that makes you fall in love with this city all over again.
Favorite place to take visitors in Oceanside: Thursday's Sunset Market
If you're new to Oceanside (or San Diego in general), the Thursday Sunset Market is an absolute must. It's got that perfect California vibe—local vendors, live music, good food, and that golden hour light that makes everything feel magical.
Favorite Oceanside bite or brunch spot: Green Cheek Beer Co—great beer, good vibes, and a yummy smashburger
Okay but can we talk about Green Cheek for a second? Because this is exactly the kind of local gem that makes San Diego special. It's not trying to be fancy or Instagram-perfect. It's just good beer, good food, and good vibes. The kind of place where you can bring your dog, hang out for hours, and leave feeling like you just had the perfect San Diego day.
Favorite San Diego hike: Torrey Pines, obviously. Those views :)
If you're new to hiking in San Diego or you're trying to convince an out-of-town friend that San Diego has the best outdoor scene, Torrey Pines is your answer. The dramatic cliffs, the ocean views, the feeling of being in nature while still being close to the city—it's everything.
One San Diego spot she's always recommending: Oceanside lol (We love a woman who reps her neighborhood!)
Favorite casual bite in San Diego:
Cross-Street Chicken
Favorite Oceanside coffee spot:
High Tide Coffee
Favorite Oceanside hidden gem: Buccaneer Cafe—hello, breakfast tacos on the beach
BREAKFAST TACOS ON THE BEACH. Do we need to say more? This is peak San Diego living, friends. This is the dream.
Ashley's Denver Recommendations (For When You Need Mountain Vibes)
One Denver spot she's always recommending: Denver Comedy Lounge, a sushi restaurant with a stage in the back
Wait, what? Sushi AND comedy? This is the kind of unexpected combo that makes life interesting. We're obsessed.
Favorite coffee spot in Denver: Corvus Coffee Roasters
Favorite casual bite in Denver: Pit Fiend Barbecue
Favorite Denver hike or outdoor spot: Tough one… Lumpy Ridge in RMNP for a hike and Clear Creek Trail for a stroll in Golden
If a Gal Were Brand New to San Diego, Where Should She Go First?
"To the beach! Pick your beach based on vibe, grab a coffee, stroll around, then have brunch and a mimosa beachside and people watch."
This is the perfect San Diego welcome. This is exactly the kind of advice that makes Ashley such a valuable resource for women trying to build a life they love here.
And here's the thing: this advice works whether you're brand new to San Diego or you've lived here for years. Sometimes we all need the reminder to slow down, to actually enjoy this incredible place we live, to grab that coffee and that mimosa and just be for a minute.
For women searching for things to do in San Diego or trying to figure out the best neighborhoods in San Diego for meeting people, this advice is invaluable. Start with the beach. Start with the vibe. Start with the simple pleasure of a good coffee and a beautiful view.
The rest will follow.
Travel Girlie Edition: Why Ashley's Wanderlust Is So Inspiring
Ashley travels a ton. And when we say "a ton," we mean she's the friend whose Instagram stories make you simultaneously inspired and jealous (in the best way).
What Lights Ashley Up About Travel
"I really like seeing other cultures, ways of living and immersing myself in it. I think you really get to understand the world when you explore it and see different ways of life and history. It reminds you that you're just a small part of a big world with a big history."
This perspective is everything. In a world that can feel so insular, so focused on our own little bubbles, travel reminds us that there's so much more out there. So many different ways to live. So many different perspectives. So much beauty and history and humanity.
"There are also small moments of connection with people that fill up my cup. On a recent trip to a French summer camp, I met two girls randomly in an elevator at the train station—turns out they were headed to the same summer camp, so we ended up talking on the train ride, exploring the city prior—and we're still in touch. Travel unlocks a lot of doors like that. I love having friends across the world!"
THIS. This is the magic of travel. Not just the Instagram-worthy moments or the bucket list destinations. But the random connections. The elevator conversations that turn into friendships. The "small world" moments that remind you we're all just humans trying to connect.
Ashley's approach to travel is the same as her approach to community-building: show up, be open, say yes to the unexpected connections.
Ashley's Favorite Place She's Ever Traveled
Greece. "It had so much ancient history and I really like history within my travels. And then you combine that with the beautiful beaches and islands. Also the gyros are literally like $4 in Athens."
The fact that Ashley leads with the history, adds the beaches, and ends with the affordable gyros? That's the perfect summary of what makes travel so special. It's not just one thing. It's the combination of culture, beauty, and those little practical details (like $4 gyros!) that make a place feel special.
How Different Places Shape and Inspire Ashley
"Travel helps me realize there isn't just one way to live life. Seeing different cultures and lifestyles makes you more open-minded and helps you understand the world better."
There isn't just one way to live life.
Can we get this tattooed? Embroidered? Skywritten?
Because this is such an important reminder, especially for women who are trying to build lives that feel authentic to them. You don't have to follow the traditional path. You don't have to do things the way everyone else does them. You don't have to choose between the beach and the mountains (just ask Ashley, who literally owns homes in both places).
You get to create a life that works for you. And travel—whether that's to Greece or just to a different neighborhood in your own city—helps you see all the different possibilities.
Dog Mom Life: Meet Ashley's Two Pups
Ashley is a proud dog mom to two adorable pups, and honestly, we need to talk about this because dog content is life.
"If I'm away from my dogs a bit, I'm likely replaying their videos or finding other people's dogs to pet. Have you noticed someone at GTB events saying 'I loooove youuuu' to passerby dogs? That's me."
We see you, Ashley. We see you loving on all the dogs at GTB events. We see you stopping mid-conversation to pet a stranger's dog. We see you, and we love you for it.
What has being a dog mom taught Ashley about life, presence, and joy?
While Ashley didn't spell this out explicitly in the interview, we can see it in how she shows up: Dogs teach us to be present. They don't care about your to-do list or your five-year plan. They just want to be with you, right now, in this moment. They find joy in the simple things—a walk, a treat, a belly rub.
And honestly? We could all learn from that.
Wisdom for the Gals: Ashley's Best Advice for Creating a Life That Actually Feels Good
Ashley has learned a lot about creating a life that actually feels good to live, and she's generous enough to share that wisdom with all of us.
What Ashley's Learned About Creating a Life That Feels Good
"I think I've learned not to have fear and don't let other people's opinions, or judgments, sway you. When I left to San Diego a week after getting married to sleep on my friend's couch while my husband remained in Ohio to sell our house, people probably thought I was crazy… but I did it anyway. And buying the house in Denver—that wasn't super well thought out and it was risky, but it brought me joy and new perspective since. Things will ALWAYS (eventually) work out, I tell myself."
Can we just pause and appreciate this for a second?
Ashley moved to San Diego a week after getting married to sleep on a friend's couch. While her husband stayed in Ohio to sell their house. And people probably thought she was crazy.
But she did it anyway.
She bought a house in Denver on a whim. It wasn't super well thought out. It was risky.
But it brought her joy.
This is the Ashley energy. This is what makes her such an inspiring leader and friend. She's not afraid to take risks. She's not afraid to do the thing that doesn't make logical sense but feels right in her heart. She's not afraid to let people think she's crazy.
Because here's what she knows: Things will ALWAYS (eventually) work out.
Not always in the way you planned. Not always on your timeline. But they work out.
And sometimes the "crazy" decision—the risky move, the spontaneous purchase, the leap of faith—ends up being the best decision you ever made.
Ashley's Advice for Women Who Want More Adventure, Connection, and Confidence
"I think it goes back to confidence in yourself and following your heart to do more of what you want. Sometimes the hyperactive brain and logic get in the way. Sure, listen to them a little, but anxiety is also a btch and sometimes it spirals out of control. Trust yourself enough and don't let it hold you back."*
Trust yourself enough and don't let anxiety hold you back.
This is the advice we all need to hear, especially when we're standing at the edge of something new—a first GTB event, a solo trip, a career change, a big move.
Your brain is going to spiral. Your anxiety is going to try to talk you out of it. Your logic is going to list all the reasons why it's a bad idea.
But sometimes? You just have to trust yourself. Trust that you can handle whatever happens. Trust that the risk is worth it. Trust that you're more capable than your anxiety wants you to believe.
For Women Who Want to Get Out More and Say Yes to Life Again
"The first step can be the hardest and it might feel uncomfortable, but don't let that stop you. On our last hike a couple people said they almost bailed that morning, but they showed up—and they were glad they did!"
They almost bailed. But they showed up. And they were glad they did.
This is the story of literally every woman who's ever come to a Gals That Brunch event. Every woman who's ever pushed through the nerves and shown up anyway.
The first step is hard. It's uncomfortable. It's scary.
But you know what's scarier? Looking back a year from now and realizing you let fear keep you from the friendships, the adventures, the life you actually wanted.
You don't have to feel ready. You don't have to feel confident. You just have to show up.
The rest will follow.
What Ashley's Learned from Travel, Work, and Community
"Life is short, and happiness can come from unexpected places. Sometimes the small moments bring just as much joy as the big adventures."
Sometimes the small moments bring just as much joy as the big adventures.
This is the wisdom that comes from actually living. From paying attention. From being present enough to notice that the best parts of life aren't always the Instagram-worthy moments.
Sometimes it's the random elevator conversation that turns into a friendship. Sometimes it's the breakfast taco on the beach. Sometimes it's the group of women screaming into the wind at the top of a hike. Sometimes it's the dog you pet on your morning walk.
The small moments matter just as much as the big ones. Maybe even more.
Just for Fun: Getting to Know Ashley Better
Let's rapid-fire through some of Ashley's favorites, because these little details paint such a full picture of who she is:
Favorite post-hike snack or treat: Brunch… preferably bacon
Favorite travel essential you never leave without: Dramamine 🙄 (Relatable queen!)
Your go-to coffee order: Some seasonal cold foam
Window seat or aisle: Aisle, unless a red eye
Mountains or ocean: Ocean if you're making me choose
Sunrise hike or sunset walk: Sunset walk
A podcast, book, or resource you've been loving lately: Atlas of the Heart—all the emotions
Okay but if you haven't read Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown, add it to your list. It's all about understanding and naming our emotions, which is exactly the kind of work that helps us show up more authentically in our friendships and communities.
Something always in your bag: Chapstick
A phrase, mantra, or quote you've been living by lately: Everything happens for a reason
If your current era had a name, what would it be: Awakening ✌️
A non-negotiable in friendship: Authenticity
Song on your personal main character travel playlist: "Long Live" - Taylor Swift
OF COURSE it's "Long Live." Of course. This is the most perfect Ashley answer. "Long Live" is all about celebrating the magic of friendship, the moments that matter, the memories we're making together.
"Long live the walls we crashed through / I had the time of my life fighting dragons with you"
That's the whole Gals That Brunch vibe right there. That's what we're building together.
What's one thing you're always down for: Handel's
If you know, you know. And if you don't know, you need to get yourself to Handel's immediately.
Why Gals That Hike Works for Women Trying to Make Friends in San Diego (The Real Talk)
Let's get practical for a second. Because if you're reading this and thinking, "Okay, this all sounds great, but HOW do I actually make friends in San Diego as an adult?"—we've got you.
Here's why Gals That Hike (and Gals That Brunch as a whole) actually works for making friends in San Diego:
1. Showing Up Solo Feels Normal Here
A lot of women aren't struggling to make friends because they don't want friendship. They're struggling because adult friendship can feel awkward and vulnerable.
Walking into a room full of strangers? Terrifying. Trying to insert yourself into an existing friend group? Intimidating. Putting yourself out there and risking rejection? Hard.
But here's what makes Gals That Hike different: Coming solo is the norm, not the exception.
Most women show up alone. First-timers are welcomed with open arms. There's a WhatsApp chat where you can start getting to know people before the hike even happens. And Ashley is always just a message away.
For women searching how to make friends in San Diego, this matters deeply. Because the biggest barrier to making friends isn't that there aren't amazing women out there. It's that we're all too scared to take the first step.
Gals That Hike removes that barrier. It normalizes showing up solo. It makes the first step feel less scary.
2. The Vibe Is Radically Welcoming, Not Cliquey
Here's the thing about a lot of social groups: they say they're welcoming, but they're actually cliquey. The regulars all know each other. The inside jokes fly. The new person feels like they're crashing a party they weren't invited to.
That's not how Gals That Brunch works. And it's definitely not how Ashley runs Gals That Hike.
The culture here is radically welcoming. Not in a fake, performative way. In a genuine, "we're so glad you're here" way.
Ashley sets the tone. She makes sure everyone feels included. She creates space for new voices. She celebrates first-timers.
That kind of warmth is a big part of why women looking for community in San Diego feel an exhale when they find GTB.
3. There's Built-In Structure, So Connection Feels Easier
One of the hardest parts of making friends as an adult is that there's no built-in structure. You're not in school anymore where you see the same people every day. You're not in college where friendship happens organically through shared classes and dorm life.
As an adult, you have to actively create opportunities for connection. And that can feel exhausting.
That's where Gals That Hike comes in. There's a natural shared context (the hike!), which makes connection more natural and lowers the social pressure.
You're not just standing in a room trying to make small talk. You're moving your body, breathing hard, laughing at yourself when you slip on a rock, cheering each other on when the trail gets tough.
That shared experience creates bonds. It gives you something to talk about. It breaks down walls. It makes friendship feel less forced and more natural.
4. Consistency Turns First Hellos into Real Friendship
Here's a truth about friendship that nobody talks about: Friendship is rarely built in one cute outing.
It's built in the returning. Seeing someone again. Recognizing a face. Going from "she seems sweet" to "wait, I think she could actually be my friend."
That consistency is a major reason GTB helps women build community in San Diego, not just attend events.
When you come to one hike and then another and then another, you start to see the same faces. You remember names. You pick up conversations where you left off. You go from strangers to acquaintances to friends.
Community isn't chemistry all at once. It's small yeses, over and over, until one day you look around and realize: Oh. I have people.
5. Ashley Makes Everyone Feel Included
As Ashley says: "Most people are coming solo too. We've had plenty of first-timers join hikes even if they've never been to a brunch event before. You won't feel out of place."
That's leadership. That's intentionality. That's what makes Gals That Hike one of the best meetup groups for women in San Diego.
Ashley isn't just showing up and checking a box. She's actively creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and seen.
And that? That changes everything.
The Growth: From First-Timer to Community Leader (And What It Means for You)
Let's take a moment to appreciate Ashley's journey with Gals That Brunch. Because her story is proof that this movement belongs to all of us.
She walked into that midsummer brunch in June 2023 as a first-timer. A woman in a full season of life—marketing career, split-time living between San Diego and Denver, dog mom, traveler—looking for deeper connection and meaningful friendships.
She didn't know anyone. She took a chance. She trekked all the way from Oceanside to hang out with us central girlies.
And then she kept showing up.
Midsummer brunch turned into Eras brunch. Eras brunch turned into volunteering on our GTB team. Volunteering turned into leading Gals That Hike for North County San Diego.
Somewhere in the middle of all that showing up, she quietly grafted into our hearts and our lives and became an integral part of this community.
She is not only an incredible friend to us, but to this whole San Diego crew. She's living proof that when you keep showing up, your whole "make friends in San Diego" story can slowly, steadily, beautifully change.
And here's what we want you to hear: Ashley's story could be your story too.
You don't have to be the most outgoing person in the room. You don't have to have it all figured out. You don't have to wait until you feel "ready."
You just have to show up. And then keep showing up.
Community is rarely fireworks all at once. Most of the time, it's small yeses, over and over, until one day you look around and realize you have people. Real people. People who get you.
This movement belongs to all of us. There's no Gals That Brunch without Ashley. And there's no Gals That Brunch without you, either.
Every single woman who shows up, who brings a friend, who posts about it on Instagram, who sends a "loved meeting you!" DM after an event—you're all building this together.
We're helping people build those community and friendship muscles, one event at a time.
And the beautiful part? You don't have to be a leader to make an impact. You just have to show up. Be kind. Be open. Be yourself.
The rest will follow.
What's Next for Ashley (And How You Can Support Her)
So what's next for Ashley Urbansky?
She's taking her first solo trip to Asia—a healing Bali retreat with extended time in Singapore and Taipei. She's navigating a life transition with grace, adventure, and that "things will always work out" energy we all need more of.
She's continuing to lead Gals That Hike once a month, discovering the best trails in San Diego and creating spaces where women can connect, move their bodies, and build genuine friendships.
She's continuing to share her marketing wisdom through Optimize and Grow, helping businesses connect authentically with their customers.
She's continuing to share her travel content on TikTok (@dfytravel), inspiring women to explore the world and say yes to adventure.
And she's continuing to show up for this community, month after month, event after event, with the same warmth, authenticity, and "driven, adventurous, and funny" energy that we fell in love with from day one.
How to Support Ashley and Connect With Her
Follow her on social media:
📸 Instagram: @aurbansky
🎥 TikTok: @dfytravel (aspiring travel content creator who deserves to go viral!)
Connect professionally:
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyurbansky/
🌐 Marketing consulting: https://optimizeandgrow.co/
(Fellow marketer? Own a business? Ashley's your girl.)
Stay at her Denver Airbnb:
🏠 https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1281309676917181675
(Wanna visit Denver? Support our girl and book her place!)
Join Gals That Hike:
📱 WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GgD7yjIVd9v1E3WzryrOjY?mode=hq2tshi
Show up to the monthly hikes! Follow @GalsThatBrunchSD and @aurbansky for updates on the next adventure.
The Final Word: Long Live Ashley Urbansky, Long Live Gals That Hike, Long Live Making Friends in San Diego
We fell in love with Ashley Urbansky in June 2023, and honestly? We've been lovestruck ever since.
She walked into that midsummer brunch ready for connection. She trekked from Oceanside to our Eras brunch because friendship matters more than convenience. She volunteered her time. She stepped up to lead. And she's been pouring into this community ever since.
She's the friend who gives marketing advice over iced coffee and convinces you to book the spontaneous road trip. She's the leader who shows up month after month to create beautiful trail experiences. She's the woman who knows what it's like to take a leap—whether that's moving to San Diego a week after getting married, buying a house in Denver on a whim, or leading a hike for women you've never met before.
She's driven, adventurous, and funny. She's vibrant, strong-willed, and free-spirited. She's authentic, generous, and brave.
She's Ashley Urbansky. And if you don't know her yet, you're about to.
To all who know her: we are lucky and blessed.
To all who are about to meet her: welcome. You're in for a treat.
Because life's too short for surface-level friendships, for staying in your comfort zone, and for not knowing where the best hikes (and breakfast tacos!) in San Diego are hiding.
Long live girlhood. Long live Ashley Urbansky. Long live Gals That Hike. Long live the magic that happens when women gather, connect, and build community in San Diego. 🥾✨
And to every woman reading this who's been wondering if she should come to her first GTB event: This is your sign. Ashley showed up not knowing anyone. She kept showing up. And now she's leading hikes, building community, and living her best life.
That could be you.
You don't have to feel ready. You don't have to feel confident. You just have to show up.
We'll save you a spot on the trail. 💕🥾
Ready to Join the Community?
Looking for how to make friends in San Diego as an adult? Start here:
Follow @GalsThatBrunchSD + @GalsThatBrunch on Instagram and come to your first event. We promise it'll be worth it.
Trying to figure out the best things to do in San Diego for women? Check out Ashley's recommendations above—from Superbloom for coffee with Mission Bay views to Buccaneer Cafe for breakfast tacos on the beach to Green Cheek Beer Co for good vibes and smashburgers. Then come experience them with us at Gals That Hike, Gals That Brunch, and all our other incredible events.
Just want to hike with incredible women and see where it goes? Join us at the next Gals That Hike. Get on the WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GgD7yjIVd9v1E3WzryrOjY?mode=hq2tshi
Follow @aurbansky and @GalsThatBrunchSD for updates.
Because building community in San Diego doesn't have to be hard. Sometimes it just takes one event, one conversation, one hike, and one woman brave enough to show up.
Let that woman be you.
We'll save you a seat (or a spot on the trail). 💕🥾
Join Us for the Next Gals That Hike: Sunset Edition 🌅🥾
Ready to put all of this into practice and actually get on the trail with the gals?
Come join us for our next Gals That Hike: Sunset Edition — a sweet, scenic, golden-hour walk along the coast with the fabulous Ash U leading the way.
Friday, June 19th
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Trail: Carlsbad Boulevard
Hosted by: The Fabulous Ash U
This one is for the first-timers, the solo gals, the “I almost bailed but I’m so glad I came” girlies, the sunset lovers, the North County crew, and anyone craving a little fresh air, easy movement, and real connection.
We’ll keep it low-pressure, welcoming, and very much come-as-you-are. Bring water, wear comfy shoes, and get ready for a dreamy little sunset trail moment with women who are also trying, showing up, and building friendship one small yes at a time.
You don’t have to come with a friend.
You don’t have to be an experienced hiker.
You don’t have to have it all figured out.
You just have to show up.
And honestly? That’s where the magic starts.
Come walk with us. We’ll save you a spot on the trail. 💕🥾🌅