Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lisa Hankins.

Topic: Her book Beyond the Chair and life after the beauty industry.

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways:

1. Purpose of the Book – "Beyond the Chair"

• The book is a guide for professionals, especially in the beauty industry, who are seeking to transition into new roles or careers.
• It addresses fear, personal growth, and the importance of stepping out of comfort zones.

1. Lisa’s Journey

• Lisa spent 35 years in the beauty industry.
• She experienced physical tolls from the job, including lung issues and back injuries, partly due to prolonged exposure to chemicals like relaxers and hair product fumes.
• A back injury in 2012 forced her to leave the industry at age 50.

1. Health & Safety in the Beauty Industry

• Lisa highlighted the dangers of chemical exposure and lack of protective measures (e.g., not using gloves).
• She emphasized the need for awareness about long-term health risks for stylists and barbers.

1. Faith and Planning

• Lisa credits her faith and careful financial planning (savings, insurance, retirement funds) for enabling her smooth transition.
• She encourages others to prepare financially and spiritually for life changes.

1. Overcoming Fear

• Fear is a major barrier to change. Lisa stresses the importance of faith, belief in oneself, and having a support system.
• She quotes scripture and shares motivational insights to inspire others to move “beyond the chair.”

1. Broader Message

• The book is not just for beauty professionals—it’s for anyone feeling stuck in a role or phase of life.
• Everyone has a “chair” they need to move beyond.

1. Technology & AI

• Lisa discusses the role of social media in the beauty industry.
• She shares a humorous anecdote about AI and plagiarism concerns in her ministry training.

1. Writing Process

• The book took two years to complete, with interruptions due to health issues.
• Lisa relied on faith and perseverance to finish it.

1. SMART Goals & Retreats

• She advocates for setting SMART goals and writing things down to stay focused.
• A retreat experience helped her reflect and clarify her purpose.

📚 Where to Find the Book:

• Available on Amazon.
• Search for Beyond the Chair by Lisa Hankins.
• #BEST
• #STRAW
• #SHMS