As part of the Morning Lazziness series highlighting empowering women who are making a remarkable impact with their ideas, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lisa Ascolese.
Lisa Ascolese, widely known as “The Inventress,” is an inventor, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, mentor, and independent product agent. As CEO and founder of Inventing A to Z, a 100% Black woman–owned product development company, she helps creators take ideas from concept to market.
With over 25 years of product invention and launch experience, Lisa holds dozens of patents and trademarks, and her projects have been featured on platforms such as QVC, HSN, and ShopHQ. Early in her journey, she launched her first invention, the Bosom Buddy nursing cape—an innovation that sparked a lifelong path of creativity and impact.
Lisa also founded Inventors Spotlight TV, a digital platform that gives inventors visibility, a marketplace for their products, and support to bring their inventions to life. She is also the founder of AOWIE (Association of Women Inventors & Entrepreneurs), a nonprofit organization that gives women inventors access to mentorship, education, and financial guidance.
Her influence spans media and publications, having been featured by Forbes, Black Enterprise, Ebony, Essence, The New York Times, and networks like ABC, Bravo, and Sirius XM.
Lisa is passionate about equipping others to invent, create, and succeed—especially those traditionally excluded from the innovation ecosystem. She leads with transparency, compassion, and a mission to empower every creator to bring their vision into reality.
In this interview, she reveals the mindset shifts, bold moves, and lessons that helped her turn ideas into impactful online businesses.
What inspired your leap into entrepreneurship, and what personal experiences sparked the idea behind your current venture?
I am an inventor and it comes to Inventing products believe it orI am an inventor and it comes to Inventing products believe it or not. You need to own a business. I never realized I would be an entrepreneur when I started inventing Products, but it comes hand inI am an inventor and it comes to Inventing products believe it or not. You need to own a business. I never realized I would be an entrepreneur when I started inventing Products, but it comes hand-in-hand! Regarding my current venture, there are many! I’m the author of two books, one is called the Inventor’s guide to Inventing the right way all or nothing now or never, and the other is called my favorite book of lullabies.
Inventing books came with a need for my clients to have the information needed to stay on target and stay motivated in the inventing and entrepreneur space. My book is a quick easy guide that walks you through all of the steps of Inventing from beginning to end, from A to Z while staying motivated. After each chapter, I have inserted my positive affirmations in addition to having a journal to keep track of their goals. My favorite book of lullabies came to life when all of the lullabies I sang to my children. I started singing too my granddaughter Olivia, and she started singing them back to me. Of course the lightbulb went off, and I decided to make this into a book. The most exciting part of all of this is I am now on tour at Barnes & Noble. Stores promoting both books.
What core problem does your business solve, particularly for women or underserved communities—and how does your approach stand out in today’s competitive space?
My business helps women understand that nothing is impossible to achieve when they set their sights on it and when they lean into it wholeheartedly. The most important part of what I do for women is show them the importance of mentorship by helping them understand they do not have to do it on their own.
What were some of the toughest obstacles you faced early in your journey as a woman entrepreneur, and how did you navigate through them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was pushing my way through doors that were closed to me. I have a business that has been run by men for years, so breaking the stigma was my super power. I am very assertive and I don’t take no for an answer is what has helped me to maintain my success.
When the going gets tough, what keeps you grounded and motivated to keep pushing forward?
My faith and family and a good beach day keep me from crashing and burning out. I have done this business long enough to know that you are not serving any good purpose if you don’t stop and give thanks and rejuvenate by resting your mind, body and spirit.
What daily habits or non-negotiable routines help you stay focused, creatively energized, and balanced as a founder?
Prayer, meditation, the sauna, a good jacuzzi, dancing and a good laugh are mandatory!!
What’s been the most effective growth lever for acquiring new clients or expanding your customer base?
My women’s conferences, networking events and social media are key to acquiring new clients.
What branding or marketing decision had the biggest impact in elevating your business and building trust with your audience?
Remaining my authentic self has always worked in my favor. As a matter of fact, I share that insight with everyone I work with. People can see right through you if you are not being sincere and genuine.
How do you personally define success—not just as a business owner, but as a woman living a purpose-driven life?
When a client reaches out to me with new products time and time again, and refers me to people who truly are serious about their business and stick with me through the process of Inventing an entrepreneurship is what I consider success.
Can you share a mistake or misstep that taught you a lesson you still carry with you today?
A lesson I learned in my business is to never rush a good thing! Take your time, take the proper steps and do it the right way. Most importantly have mentorship. Learn from people who have taken the journey before you.
What’s your best advice for women just starting out—especially first-time entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed or unsure of their next steps?
Get involved with networking events and find groups of people who are like-minded, positive people who will lift and inspire you to go all the way.
How do you approach risk and innovation, especially when breaking new ground in a male-dominated or fast-changing industry?
It’s important to follow trends and see what is working! Definitely take a look at competitive products and look at costs before diving into anything that could be financially risky.
If you lead a team, how do you foster a culture of trust, inclusivity, collaboration, and growth?
If you look for like-minded people who have the same core values you are going in the right direction.
What are the top 5 mindset shifts or personal practices that helped you overcome self-doubt and grow your confidence as a woman entrepreneur?
Number one, have faith in yourself by practicing certain matches such as I can, I must, and I will overcome all obstacles!.
I write down what I choose to have in my life on what I call my white canvas and I lean into it.
Doing things that scare me like speaking in front of thousands of people, even when my knees are shaking! When I go beyond what I think I can do it brings me the courage to do it again!
Approach everything with kindness.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If you could spark a global movement through your work, what would it be—and why is that mission meaningful to you?
Continue to speak, positivity, love, and kindness to everyone! I was raised in a very loving family who cared deeply for other people. Kindness and love, speak volumes!
What’s a quote, philosophy, or guiding belief that shapes how you lead, create, and live every day?
I can, I must come, and I will, overcome any obstacle that stands in my way. Because with God, all things are possible!
Where can our audience connect with you, explore your work, or follow your entrepreneurial journey online?
You can follow me at inventingatoz.com and on my social media @the_inventress
