kai conversations with former music executive-turned-fitness entrepreneur, lisa hirsch-solomon

we are delighted to bring you this week's kai conversation with former music executive-turned-fitness entrepreneur, lisa hirsch-solomon. in 2007, lisa made the life- changing decision to relocate to los angeles and reconnect with her true passion, fitness. growing up in new york, lisa had always been a “workout queen”; donned in leg warmers, she would grapevine along with the jane fonda workout and experiment with different fitness classes like step aerobics and spinning. later on in her music business days, working out had also been lisa’s own private refuge where she could escape from the chaos of her demanding career. it wasn’t until she discovered the true benefits of the lagree method, in particular, and the incredible effect that the exercise can have on transforming one’s body that a light bulb went off.

drawing on her years of experience managing client relationships, nurturing new business opportunities and the positive impact fitness had on all aspects of her life, lisa was inspired to pursue her dream of having her own studio. she launched the first the studio (mdr) location in early 2011 with the singular vision of creating a safe and comfortable space that was not only a workout, but a refuge for people to feel good, supported and empowered. today, the studio (mdr) offers more than 400 classes per week, catering to a diverse clientele in five locations around the los angeles area. 

lisa is a wonderful example of the importance of aligning actions with passion and purpose in order to lead a fulfilling life. i hope you enjoy getting a glimpse into lisa’s world. 

xo,

gaye 

how did you first discover kai? 

i believe it was in the early 2000s when i kept encountering this enchanting scent that smelled like paradise.  it seemed to be everywhere, and i couldn't ignore it.  then, one day, while browsing a small boutique in malibu, possibly planet blue, i finally found the source of that captivating aroma, and that's when the kai oil became a permanent part of my life!

how do you embody kai’s “breath*life*flow” lifestyle? 

i fully embrace kai's 'breath life flow' lifestyle, which resonates with the studio (mdr)'s motto, 'look it+ feel it+ live it.'  i prioritize my well-being by incorporating mindfulness practices like deep breathing and meditation into my daily routine.  i focus on a healthy lifestyle through nutritious eating, regular exercise, and self-care.  personal growth, creativity, and building meaningful connections with my community are of paramount importance to me.  i'm mindful of sustainability, express gratitude, and value adaptability in my daily choices.  by aligning my actions with my passions and purpose, i've crafted a fulfilling life that is in line with kai's philosophy. 

how did you start your career? and how did you end up with your current role?

about 15 years ago, while working in the entertainment industry, i found myself ready for a change.  i developed a business plan for opening a clothing store named "november" (my favorite month).  i crunched the numbers, but unfortunately, this coincided with a recession, and the financial feasibility just wasn't there.  that's when i began thinking about what people continue to do, especially in a city like los angeles, during tough economic times.  the answer was simple: "they eat, drink, and work out!"

 

during that period, i was a regular at a fitness studio that practiced the lagree method, and i absolutely loved it. one thing led to another, and i decided to take a leap of faith and follow my passion for fitness.  i started with a clear vision and embarked on a journey to turn that vision into reality, one day at a time.  the outcome?  i opened my very first studio on january 3, 2011, and it quickly attracted full classes.  today, i'm proud to say we have expanded to five studios and looking for our sixth!

what’s the best advice you’ve ever received? 

don’t be so quick to respond to an email that upsets you.  wait a day and then decide what to say.

what advice would you give your younger self?

i would tell my younger self that there is always light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how dire the situation may seem. when you believe that everything is falling apart and the world is closing in on you, take a deep breath, go for a walk around the block, and remember that even when you've made significant mistakes, apologizing, and learning from those mistakes is essential. nobody is perfect, and we grow through our errors, eventually moving forward.

who or what inspires you? 

i'm inspired by women who support other women and make a positive impact on the world, whether through big or small actions. i'm also inspired by people who demonstrate kindness in their interactions and actions.

what are you grateful for today? 

 

i'm grateful for my husband, my dogs, my family and friends, and the studio (mdr). the inner rewards i experience in my role of helping people become healthier, happier, and feel loved daily, enrich my life and make it more fulfilling.

what is your morning routine? 

i start my day around 4:30am by taking my brussels griffon, louie, for a walk.  afterward, i make coffee, answer emails, and hop on the peloton for a workout.  following my exercise routine, i take a shower and then walk my other brussels griffon, mabel, although she prefers to sleep in.  finally, i head to one of the studios or attend a meeting to kick-start my day.

how do you define success? 

i define success by the moments when i receive an email, a phone call, or when someone stops me to share how this studio has played a pivotal role in helping them achieve their personal goals or make a significant positive change in their life.

kai obsession? 

i'm obsessed with anything kai rose!  i love the scent, and highly recommend trying their deodorant and hand cream.