From Grit to Glory: Pettus Ashley’s Rise in Adult Retail
Ever wonder what it takes to thrive in the unfiltered world of adult retail? Meet Pettus Ashley, a force of nature who’s rewriting the rules as Bathmate’s U.S. brand ambassador. Her story isn’t just about selling penis pumps or strap-on harnesses—it’s about raw hustle, unapologetic authenticity, and turning personal struggles into a career that’s equal parts grit and glamour. Ashley’s journey from a grueling double shift in a California adult shop to jet-setting for a U.K.-based pleasure brand is the kind of tale that makes you sit up and listen.
The Accidental Trailblazer
Ashley didn’t plan to dive headfirst into the sex toy industry. Fresh out of an abusive relationship, she was scraping by, juggling 5 a.m. bakery shifts with late-night stints at an adult store. “I could dwell on my situation or chase the money,” she says. She chose the latter, and damn, did it pay off. A chance encounter with a Sportsheets rep changed everything. Fifteen minutes from her store, a new world opened—one where she could be herself, no filter needed.
“I never imagined I’d end up in this industry, but I feel incredibly lucky that I did.”
– Pettus Ashley
That leap to Sportsheets wasn’t just a job; it was a lifeline. Mentors like Julia Harney and Joseph Munoz showed her the ropes, proving the adult industry isn’t just about products—it’s about people who give a damn. Now, repping Bathmate, Ashley’s all about building connections and dropping knowledge, from the science of penis pumps to the art of the upsell.
Why Authenticity Is Her Superpower
What makes Ashley stand out? She’s not just selling—she’s relating. Years behind the counter gave her a sixth sense for what customers want and what store staff need to hear. She’s not preaching from a corporate playbook; she’s in the trenches, sharing real talk on how to move high-ticket pleasure products. Her secret? Knowing when to push and when to listen.
- Breaks down penis pump tech without sounding like a manual.
- Teaches staff how to spot customers ready for a big buy.
- Keeps it real, no bullshit, building trust with every handshake.
“I approach it from a sales perspective,” Ashley says. “I know the conversations happening in-store every day.” That relatability turns her training sessions into goldmines for retail teams, making her a linchpin in Bathmate’s U.S. push.
The Adventure of a Lifetime
Being a brand ambassador isn’t just a job—it’s a wild ride. Ashley’s life went from sleeping in a closet to crisscrossing the country, each trip a new story to tell. “Every time I see my family, I’ve got something new,” she laughs. The gig’s not without its downs—loneliness can hit hard on the road—but the highs? Unbeatable. She’s living a dream most desk jockeys only fantasize about, meeting folks who share her passion for sexual wellness.
It’s not all glamour, though. The adult industry demands thick skin and sharper instincts. Ashley’s learned to navigate the chaos, leaning on her team at Bathmate for support. “They’ve stood by me through some rough patches,” she admits. That camaraderie keeps her grounded, even when the travel grind gets real.
Women Leading the Charge
Ashley’s not just in it for herself—she’s part of a bigger shift. The women in adult movement is reshaping the industry, and she’s all in. “We’re setting the boundaries for how this industry works,” she says, pointing to a future where women drive the conversation. Her mentor, Julia Harney, is proof: one woman’s guidance can spark a career, maybe even a revolution.
“We’re crucial because we’re establishing how this industry will function and how we treat each other.”
– Pettus Ashley
With women like Ashley at the helm, the pleasure industry’s poised for a shake-up. She predicts big changes in the next two years—think more inclusivity, smarter marketing, and a focus on real connection over cheap thrills.
What’s Next for Ashley?
Ashley’s not slowing down. Her 2025 goal? Sharpen her skills and climb higher. “My journey’s just beginning,” she says, eyes on the industry’s heavy hitters. She’s not chasing fame—she wants influence, the kind that shapes how pleasure products are sold and perceived. With her knack for connecting and her unapologetic vibe, she’s already halfway there.
The adult retail world can be a tough nut to crack, but Ashley’s proving it’s also a place for dreamers. From strap-ons to penis pumps, she’s not just selling toys—she’s selling confidence, authenticity, and a vision for a bolder industry. Who’s ready to join her?
