As a trusted professional, Latrice Smith Esq., journey to law and entrepreneurship has allowed her to not only continue her family legacy but also fulfill her destiny of success. Let’s meet her.
How did you get to where you are today?
My journey has been one of purpose and persistence. Growing up in Mississippi in a family of medical entrepreneurs, I was immersed in a world where business and service went hand in hand. I decided to earn my Juris Doctorate and a Master’s in Public Health, which gave me a unique perspective on the intersection of healthcare, business, and law. After going to law school and passing the bar, I thought I had achieved my dream by securing a government attorney position. However, life had other plans so instead of despair, I pivoted into real estate, which I initially envisioned as a side hustle. While managing a property, I needed a plumber and was referred to someone who would later become my husband. This connection blossomed into both a lifelong partnership and thriving businesses. I then joined Mechanical Piping Solutions as a CEO, and later founded Thomas Law & Consulting as well as beem® Light Sauna, combining my legal expertise with my passion for entrepreneurship and wellness.
When you look back, what time period of your life do you consider the starting point of your journey into your current profession, and why?
When I reflect on the beginning of my journey into my current profession, I trace it back to my graduation from law school and the formative years I spent in the corporate legal sector. It was during this time that I honed my understanding of the legal landscape, gaining critical insights into the nuances of business law and client relations. Those early experiences became the foundation of my approach today, shaping the way I provide strategic, practical guidance to entrepreneurs and businesses navigating their own challenges. It was this period that truly set me on the path to helping others build and grow with confidence.
Where did you grow up? Summarize your childhood in four words.
Southern Hospitality: Entrepreneurial Foundation.
Can you tell us about a particular challenge you faced in your career and how you overcame it?
One of the most significant challenges I faced in my career was being terminated from a position I thought I was secure in. At the time, it felt like a setback, but in hindsight, it was one of the most pivotal moments of my journey. Being let go forced me to reevaluate my path and led me to realize that I wasn’t aligned with where I was supposed to be. That experience gave me the courage to step out on my own, pursue my passions, and ultimately build Thomas Law & Consulting. It was a tough lesson, but it taught me the importance of trusting my instincts and embracing the challenges that shape our growth. Sometimes, what feels like a setback is actually a redirection to where you’re meant to go.
How do you stay motivated and continue to innovate in your work?
Motivation comes from seeing the impact my work has on others. Whether it’s helping a founder become an effective CEO or providing a wellness sanctuary for clients, the results inspire me to keep going. I also lean on my philosophy of “Carpe Diem”—seizing opportunities and making the most of each moment. Innovation comes from listening to my clients and identifying their evolving needs, which drives me to create services and solutions that truly make a difference.
What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?
My proudest moment in my career so far has been receiving the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to me by Dr. Cheryl Wood. This recognition was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and commitment to empowering others. I received the award for my ongoing contributions to the legal and business communities, as well as my efforts to inspire and uplift entrepreneurs. It was a humbling moment to be acknowledged for my impact, and having Dr. Wood, present the award made it even more meaningful. The award not only validated the work I’ve done but also strengthened my resolve to continue pushing boundaries and making a difference. It reminded me that the journey is about more than personal achievement—it’s about creating opportunities and leaving a legacy that uplifts others.
What do you think sets you apart from others in your field and makes you stand out?
My ability to blend expertise in law, business strategy, and public health gives me a unique edge. I don’t just solve problems—I take a proactive approach, creating comprehensive strategies that help my clients grow and protect their businesses in dynamic ways. My foundation is built on both personal and professional experiences, from growing up in a family of entrepreneurs to running multiple businesses myself. This gives me a deeper understanding of the challenges my clients face and allows me to craft solutions that are not only practical but also transformative.
Tell us about a time you felt overwhelmed. How did you pivot over or around this hurdle?
There was a time during the first year of beem® Light Sauna when I felt completely overwhelmed. We faced unexpected challenges as early adopters of the brand—poor marketing decisions, tech issues, and unmet prelaunch goals drained our savings and tested our resolve. At one point, my husband and I seriously questioned whether we had made the right decision. But instead of succumbing to the stress, we pivoted by making three key strategic moves. First, we hired an experienced manager who shared our vision, which helped bring the right leadership to the team. Second, we revamped our marketing strategy, focusing on targeted campaigns to attract new members rather than just spending money on ads. Finally, we stayed committed to the core values of the brand—ensuring a top-tier customer experience. These actions turned things around, and within three months, we doubled our revenue. By leaning into the challenge and staying focused on our vision, we were able to overcome the hurdle and build a thriving business.
How do you balance your professional career and personal/family life?
Balancing my professional career with being a wife and mom to three is something I’ve learned to navigate over time, though it’s never easy. Some days, it feels like a constant juggling act—ensuring my family has what they need while keeping up with the demands of my work. I remember early on, there were times I felt completely overwhelmed, not sure how to give both sides of my life the attention they deserved. But I quickly learned that time-blocking and prioritizing each day made all the difference. I rely on a detailed calendar to keep everything organized and make sure that my family time is as intentional as my work time. It’s not always perfect, but I make sure to carve out little moments with my kids—whether it’s a quiet dinner or a quick chat in the morning—so they know they’re always my priority. It’s definitely a challenge, but I’ve come to appreciate that, with intention and flexibility, I can find the balance that works for both my career and my family.
What is one lesson you have learned along the way?
One lesson I’ve learned along the way is the power of embracing the present moment and taking action, no matter how uncertain the future may seem. For me, this is summed up in the mantra “Carpe Diem”—Seize the Day. Life and business are full of unexpected twists, but the key is to stay aligned with your vision and be ready to seize opportunities when they come your way. I’ve learned that waiting for the “perfect” moment often means missing out on the chance to create something great. So, I’ve made it my mission to always stay prepared, take bold steps, and trust that every day is an opportunity for growth.
At the end of the day, what matters most to you at your core?
From a career and business perspective, what matters most to me at my core is being an impactful guide for founders. It’s about helping them become well-rounded leaders who not only succeed in their businesses but also enrich their families, communities, and clients’ lives. At the heart of my work is empowering founders to bring their visions to life, creating lasting change and success. By supporting them in building impactful businesses, I strive to leave a legacy of growth, purpose, and fulfillment for the founders I work with. Ultimately, seeing their dreams realized and their businesses thrive is what drives me every day.
What do you want your legacy to be?
I want my legacy to be one of impact—a legacy where I’ve been a valuable resource for others, helping them navigate their journeys with purpose and clarity. By empowering those around me, whether through mentorship, guidance, or support, I hope to have made a lasting difference in their lives and businesses. My goal is to be a positive influence, always beneficial to the people I touch, helping them realize their full potential and achieve their dreams.I want to be remembered as someone who not only provided practical solutions but also inspired others to believe in themselves and take bold steps toward their own success, leaving a ripple effect of empowerment and growth.
Official Bio: Latrice Smith Esq., MPH, is a trailblazing entrepreneur and lawyer with expertise in healthcare and law. Born into a family of entrepreneurs and healthcare providers, she earned a Master’s in Public Health from Southern Mississippi and a Juris Doctorate from Atlanta John Marshall Law School. In 2018, she founded Thomas Law & Consulting, LLC, a leading firm in the healthcare and service industries. Latrice’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through her ownership of beem Light Sauna and Mechanical Piping Solutions. As a respected business consultant, she empowers professionals to build strong, ethical businesses, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
Website: thomaslaw.org Instagram: thomaslawandconsulting Instagram: latricesmithesq Facebook: Thomas Law & Consulting
Connect with Latrice
Official Bio: Latrice Smith Esq., MPH, is a trailblazing entrepreneur and lawyer with expertise in healthcare and law. Born into a family of entrepreneurs and healthcare providers, she earned a Master’s in Public Health from Southern Mississippi and a Juris Doctorate from Atlanta John Marshall Law School. In 2018, she founded Thomas Law & Consulting, LLC, a leading firm in the healthcare and service industries. Latrice’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through her ownership of beem Light Sauna and Mechanical Piping Solutions. As a respected business consultant, she empowers professionals to build strong, ethical businesses, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
Website: thomaslaw.org Instagram: thomaslawandconsulting Instagram: latricesmithesq Facebook: Thomas Law & Consulting
