Creating a path forward and up in the coffee industry sometimes requires we take matters into our own hands and build the opportunities for ourself and others that we don't see. This is exactly what today's guest, LaNisa Williams did with Barista L.A.  LaNisa Williams has been in coffee over 14 years as a barista, manager, trainer/educator, and all around inspiration. At a critical point in her life and career she decided that coffee was not only her route to a better life, but that she would create a platform to spotlight and give opportunity to the black coffee community.  Barista Life L.A. is a full service coffee brand that provides training, education, and consulting to individuals and companies. Under the Barista Life L.A. banner, LaNisa founded Black the platform "Black in Brew" which highlights black excellence in coffee. In addition LaNisa provides private events, in home brewing demos, and also runs the retail expression of Barista Life L.A., "Hustlers Cup".  In all this her goal is to create a safe space for people of all colors, genders, and backgrounds in hopes to educate, restores, and uplift them in the coffee community.  In today's conversation we will be talking about how LaNisa got her start in coffee, how it provided a path for a new life, and the story of founding Barista Life L.A. and the experiences, lessons, and impact it has provided.  We cover: Developing a love for coffee and the industry The drive of Hospitality and people Getting a second chance on life through coffee Addressing the lack of opportunity for black people in coffee Starting barista life LA  Expanding the view of what a barista is Educating and training and putting yourself out there How the journey has shaped who she is today  Receiving feedback and avoiding self doubt Paying attention to your customers Helping people succeed beyond the bar Advice on overcoming obstacles  Links: www.bristalifela.com IG:  @Baristalifela @hustlerscup   Related Episodes: 233 : A Conversation w/ Anthony Ragler, Black and White 315 : Growing and Connecting w/ Stephen Zinnerman of The Coffee Enthusiast! 116: Understanding Gentrification w/ Dr. Stacey Sutton 183 : Exploring Diversity w/ Phyllis Johnson 159: Addressing Unconscious Bias w/ Lauren Lathrop 139: Founder Friday w/ Phil Sipka, Kusanya Cafe 067: 6 Truths about Power 235 : 4 Tips for Training your Staff   Visit our awesome sponsors! Ground Control : Revolutionary Batch Brew Coffee! www.groundcontrol.coffee   The Barista Series: Best Plant Based Beverages on Earth! www.pacificfoodservice.com   The best event for building a successful retail coffee business! www.coffeefest.com