This month, Head of School Peter G. Curran P’27 ’27 launched his newest endeavor, a podcast focused on the community and connection of Blair Academy.

“Through The Buc Stops Here, we’re excited to learn from and celebrate the stories of Blair graduates and community members across generations,” said Mr. Curran. “I truly couldn’t imagine a better inaugural guest than Blair Trustee Ashley Thompson ’08. From her time as a student leader on campus to co-founding MUSH and pitching on Shark Tank, Ashley’s journey is one of purpose and vision. Her resilience and authenticity—as well as her passion for bringing convenient, healthy food to the world—are both inspiring and energizing.”
 
During the podcast, Ashley reflected on her path from Blairstown to entrepreneurship. She described Blair as “transformational,” crediting the School’s people, environment, and opportunities with shaping her character and ambition. After Blair, she continued on to Columbia University and then Goldman Sachs, where she gained real-world experience before deciding to leave finance and build something more aligned with her values. Despite mixed reactions from colleagues, she launched MUSH, an overnight oat company that would gain national attention through an appearance on Shark Tank that resulted in an investment from Mark Cuban.

Ashley recounted MUSH’s early growing pains with Mr. Curran, including a 100,000-unit order surge after Shark Tank that required months of round-the-clock work and explained how the company’s mission “to fuel humanity with positive energy” guides culture, product development and her own leadership. She shared the childhood origin of overnight oats, the meaning behind the name MUSH, and the company’s expansion into protein bars, high-protein oats and kids’ smoothie pouches. A hands-on founder, she can still be spotted in the grocery aisle rearranging shelves of MUSH to “always be merchandising.” Reflecting on success, she emphasized continual creation rather than “making it,” and she advises aspiring Blair entrepreneurs to care for their health and well-being while pursuing ambitious goals.

“Our conversation reminded me why these stories matter: They reflect the impact of a Blair education and the many ways members of our extended Blair family are shaping the world for the better,” Mr. Curran shared.

To listen to the podcast, find it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.