Dr. Lisa Summerour of Summa Our Creatives, Inc.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Summerour

Hi Lisa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I embarked on a transformative journey years ago. A journey that allowed me to realize my potential and strengths, despite various personal and professional challenges.
In 1986, I became the first Black woman crowned Miss New Jersey USA. That exposure and proximity to Philadelphia and New York, were factors in my pursuing an acting career. I began studying at Freedom Theatre in Philadelphia and auditioning in Philly and NY. My first film role put me opposite Denzel Washington as his wife in the Academy Award nominated “Philadelphia.” I also had the incredible opportunity to work alongside industry legends like Forrest Whitaker and Bruce Willis. My acting career was a significant chapter in my life, providing me with unique experiences and valuable insights.

Simultaneously, I nurtured a passion for writing and speaking. My love of learning took me back to school to finish my degree I started at Howard University. I went on to earn two master’s and a doctorate. Ultimately, my experiences led me to teach at two online universities, work as a consultant, and workshop facilitator for a variety of organizations and universities. I’ve spoken to organizations around the country and had international opportunities to work in both Ghana and Uganda.

Behind the scenes, I faced my own set of challenges. While some may have envied how my life was going, I was not having a “grace and ease” experience. It was through identifying my own path to overcoming these personal struggles that I identified a structured, supportive process that would help others going through similar experiences.

I like to say I was my first client. And to some degree, I think we all are. I was encouraged by my own journey and a desire to support others. My book, Divorce Is Not A Destination® – A.A.C.T. In Joy!:™ A Path to Overcoming Heartache, Rebuilding Confidence, and Living with Joy —After Breakup, is the culmination of my personal experience and professional training as a Master Practitioner Breakup and Divorce coach. I’m accredited through the International Divorce Coach Centre of Excellence and The Dash Charity, an organization that has spent more than 45 years supporting individuals experiencing domestic abuse.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Some of the struggles would be the emotional roller coaster of navigating multiple marriages and divorces. In my book, I share some pretty difficult and personal experiences. My hope is that it help the readers be vulnerable enough to explore their own stories so they can identify patterns and find points where accountability can take hold.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am personal and professional coach and consultant. Most women dealing with a breakup and divorce also benefit from having someone capable of helping them navigate how such a personal experience impacts them professionally. I have an entire chapter on this in my book. For the past twelve years, I’ve worked as a DEI & Engagement consultant, executive coaching, and workshop facilitator. I continue to do this work for select clients and with other consulting firms.

My creative side always has permission to jump in. My years as an actor continue to help me in my work because I know I can engage an audience, whether it’s a corporate client where I’m facilitating focus groups or a group coaching environment with individuals in different stages of their divorce processes. I still love creating things . . . I’m sitting here with my sewing machine next to my laptop and a table full of fabric for a skirt I’m making this week.

I’m also a DIY junkie. So, I’m known for my eclectic nature. I give myself permission to fuse the things I love into my work or how I organize my days. Diving into my many creative outlets is how I reset when things are a bit hectic.

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I love to travel! So far . . I’ve covered more than 30 states and 20 countries. Almost once a year, my family does a big group vacation. This year it was Greece, Italy, and Malta. And I usually find some time to get away by myself. I think seeing the world and experiencing different cultures is one of the best gifts I give myself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://divorceisnotadestination.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_lisasummerour/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejoyaact
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drlisasummerour
• Other: https://drlisasummerour.com/

Image Credits
Photographer Credit: Mia Meesha of The Perfect Shot
For all images except the books and Dr. Summerour shooting a podcast episode in her office.