Lisa Merlo-Booth is a relationship expert, speaker, and coach on a mission to change the way individuals, couples, and organizations connect. With over two decades of experience helping people build healthier, more accountable, and compassionate relationships, Lisa believes that the world needs a cultural shift — one that teaches both women and men to thrive together. Through her work, she’s redefining what it means to communicate with respect, challenge defensiveness, and create emotionally safe environments at home and at work.
Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature Lisa’s inspiring journey as part of our global initiative to spotlight changemakers who are driving impact and compassion across communities. Her story resonates deeply with our 5-million-strong audience dedicated to the mission of She for She and He for She — empowering a kinder, more connected world.
Q: Lisa, could you tell us a bit about your mission and what drives your work?
Lisa: My big mission is to radically change the culture we’ve been raised in — one that’s often harmful to both women and men. I work with individuals, couples, and teams to help them create radically new relationships and healthier cultures. My passion lies in challenging the status quo and teaching people how to connect in ways that allow everyone — men, women, girls, and boys — to thrive.
Q: You’ve been helping people transform their relationships for a long time. How do most people find you?
Lisa: Mostly through word of mouth. When I work with clients, I do it differently — I don’t take insurance or follow the traditional 50-minute session model. People refer me because of the transformation they experience. I’m also active on social media — Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube — where I share resources and insights.
Q: That’s wonderful. Can you tell us more about your online presence and the kind of programs or workshops you offer?
Lisa: Absolutely. I have a YouTube channel and a Facebook page called Straight Talk on Relationships. I run free webinars and online courses, and one of my signature programs is Tackling Defensiveness — a six-week course that helps people learn how to handle feedback, reduce defensiveness, and communicate effectively. I also work with teams through half-day workshops to create more accountable and connected workplaces.
Q: You speak a lot about redefining relationships and culture. What are some of your aspirations for the future?
Lisa: I want to reach larger audiences and spread awareness about what healthy relationships actually look like — because most people don’t know. We’ve normalized unhealthy behaviors like yelling, silencing, and avoidance, but these things harm relationships deeply. My goal is to keep speaking, writing, and teaching people how to talk through conflict respectfully, whether in families, workplaces, or communities.
Q: That’s such a powerful vision. Along the way, what challenges have you faced in your work or business?
Lisa: One of my biggest challenges is balancing one-on-one client work with expanding my reach. When you work individually with clients all day, it can limit your capacity to grow. I’m learning how to shift from “one to many” so I can help more people while staying energized. And honestly — technology is not my strength! I’ve accepted that and learned to delegate tech tasks to others so I can focus on what I do best.
Q: You’ve seen so many people struggle with communication and connection. What message would you share with our readers who want to build stronger relationships?
Lisa: If you’re unhappy in your relationship, you can change it — but you have to go beyond your comfort zone. Stop trying to change the other person and start looking at your own patterns. Notice what you’re doing repeatedly that keeps you stuck. For leaders and business owners, remember this: a healthy team and a healthy culture are your greatest assets. When people feel safe and respected, productivity and morale skyrocket.
“In every relationship — whether personal or professional — the real transformation begins when we dare to do things differently.” – Lisa Merlo-Booth
Connect with Lisa Merlo-Booth:
Instagram: @lisamerlobooth
Facebook: Lisa Merlo-Booth Straight Talk on Relationships
YouTube: Lisa Merlo-Booth
Website: www.lisamerlobooth.com
