Home: Charm City (Baltimore, MD). Age: Fabulous 50-something. Birthplace: The Show-Me State (Missouri). Organization: Ascentim. Title: Founder. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers. Significant other: Clarence Baker, Jr., my husband and partner in purpose. Alma mater: Saint Louis University.
Recent recognition: Inc.’s 2022 Best in Business list in the Coaching/Career Development category. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Retiring from a 30-year corporate career and launching a coaching practice during a global pandemic. Hobbies: I love music. Anytime a song is playing, I’m humming or singing along. Last book read: Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom, by John Donohue.
Personality profile: Defender: Introverted, Observant, Feeling, Judging. What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Generous. Moral compass: Love is my true north. What word or phrase do you use far too often? I understand. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? First responders: the brave people who put themselves in harm’s way to save us and work tirelessly to help us heal.
What emojis best describe you? 🧐💕🤣.
What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Giving to support worthy causes and those who are less fortunate. What is at the top of your bucket list? A 90-day vacation to take a trip around the world with my husband. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Sand and sunshine.
What was your first paying job? Cashier at Target. What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Jacks. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? The words live, love, create, and family. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Don’t start something you’re not planning to keep up. What modern technology innovation do you most appreciate? The internet.
What is your big idea? To improve the economic well-being of families and individuals by increasing their financial literacy. What widely held belief do you reject? The notion that anyone is ‘self-made’. Rarely, if ever, do we achieve any meaningful endeavor alone. What mega-trend most excites you? Digitalization: Rapid adoption of digital products and services. What mega-trend most concerns you? Data Transparency: Everything and everyone is being tracked. What happens to privacy?
What title would you choose for the movie about your life? Indomitable: The Lisa L. Baker Story. What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Viola Davis. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My parents. What advice would you give your younger self? Relax and enjoy the journey! Everything is working in your favor. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? Not a single moment. I have learned and grown from every circumstance.
Personal motto: The dividends of kindness come at no cost. Favorite quote: “Happiness is not a goal, it’s the result of a life well lived” (Anil Sinha). Desired epitaph: A woman well loved. A life well lived.
