Ashlee Espinosa is an American actress, educator, and career coach with over two decades of experience in the performing arts. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre from the University of Central Oklahoma and a Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from San Diego State University. Ashlee worked as a professor of theatre for almost a decade, most recently at the University of California, Irvine, where she guided both BFA and MFA students, shaping the next generation of artists.

As a performer, Ashlee has captivated audiences on stages across the country in roles such as Alison Bechdel in Fun Home (Chance Theater), Janet in The Drowsy Chaperone (Lawrence Welk Theatre)Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie (Performance Riverside), and Sally Bowles in Cabaret (Lawrence Welk Theatre). Her regional credits also include standout performances in Shrek the Musical (Princess Fiona), Legally Blonde (Brooke Wyndham), and The Paisley Sister’s Christmas Special (Abigail Paisley). Additionally, she has participated in industry readings such as Ryan Scott Oliver’s We Foxes (Willa), Tom Diggs & Jay D’Amico’s The Fairy Hoax (Adult Dulcie/Vivian), and most recently the NYC reading of the new musical Fulfillment (Agatha) at Open Jar Studios.

Ashlee has recently expanded her career into on-camera work, appearing in Season 2 of the true crime docuseries Oxygen's Fatal Family Feuds and booking a commercial with a major, globally recognized brand.

As the founder of The Empowered Actor program, Ashlee helps musical theatre performers navigate the industry with confidence and clarity. Her program equips artists with the tools and strategies needed to build sustainable careers while honoring their unique visions of success as both artists and individuals.

Ashlee lives a vibrant entrepreneurial life, balancing her artistic career with her personal passion for mentorship. She is happily married to Tim Espinosa, a fellow theatre professional working in musical theatre and arts administration. Together, they share a mission to shift the narrative in theatre and inspire the next generation of artists. Along with their beloved dog Lola, they enjoy a bicoastal lifestyle that blends creativity, adventure, and community.