There are some really incredible people in this world and when we meet the ones that are extra special and lead with their heart we want to tell everyone about them and about the work they are doing that is making a positive impact. Meet my friend, Lisa Basini who is not only a business owner, entrepreneur and founder of a non-profit that builds confidence and creates opportunity for those who are differently-abled but, she is also an incredible mother and woman with a heart of gold that inspires others.

When you ask others to describe Lisa they say she is:

 “a blessing to the community and especially the special needs community.”

“she has a big heart and does so much for others”

“she is great to work for and loves to teach others”

and I would like to add that being around her inspires others to make a difference. I encourage you to follow her incredible business that has been around for 20 years , Baking Coach and purchase her baking kits that make some of the most delicious desserts. 

Lisa shared with us how her successful business of 20 years came to be and I think reading her story will inspire others to find a passion and with an amazing work ethic and love for what you do will help you succeed, as well.

“I was born in Astoria, Queens to Maltese immigrant parents, growing up in a bustling multigenerational home before we moved to Bellerose when I was five. My parents worked hard but couldn’t help much with school, and I struggled with reading from the start. What I did understand was baking. Time in the kitchen with my aunt and grandmother became my escape, and eventually my solution. I taught myself to read through recipes—ingredients became characters, directions became the plot, and dessert was the reward.

By seven, I could bake almost anything, though I left the kitchen in chaos. After my mom threatened to ban me from baking, I learned to work efficiently—minimizing bowls, simplifying steps, and organizing my space. Without realizing it, I was building the foundation for my future business. Soon my mom was asking me to bake for her friends, and by nine I was juggling schoolwork and “orders.” She remained my biggest supporter until she passed away in 2025. Caring for her from 2020 to 2025, and being with her when she died at home as she wished, is one of my greatest honors.

As a teen, I sold baked goods outside my house on Saturdays, but baking also became my emotional outlet. My dad could always tell when I’d had a rough day by the amount of cookies cooling on the counter.

At 24, I met my husband Tom, who helped me see strengths I never recognized in myself. My career in the footwear industry grew quickly, thanks in part to a mentor who insisted my success came from skill, not luck. After years of trying, we welcomed our son Jacob—who has autism and is a visual learner like me—and later our daughter Anastasia, a gifted vocalist and an amazing taste tester!!!!. Baking with Jacob helped him with sensory challenges, and sharing the kitchen with both kids deepened my love for teaching.

I eventually enrolled in culinary school, earned a baking arts certificate, and in 2005 founded Baking Coach® with just $1,000. I trademarked the name and began teaching baking fundamentals in schools, libraries, senior centers, adult education programs, camps, and residential communities. By 2019, we had over ten instructors across the tri-state area.

Then 2020 changed everything. My father passed away from COVID-19, and my business shut down. I pivoted—writing and filming more than 300 recipes and instructional videos, rebranding, and launching manufacturing for baking kits. We expanded into multiple states and now have a pending utility patent on our mix‑in‑the‑bag kits.

In 2023, we opened our first brick‑and‑mortar location, where we teach, manufacture kits, and bake fresh cookies. I also founded a 501(c)(3), Recipes 4 Learning, to provide job‑skill training for differently‑abled adults. Today, 40% of our workforce is differently abled, and we partner with local high schools to support students entering the workforce.

Throughout my life, my mission has stayed the same: make baking simple, joyful, and accessible. I saw early on that while cake decorating classes were everywhere, true baking fundamentals were hard to find unless you attended trade school. That gap inspired my business, and now my patented baking kits take it even further.

With a mix‑in‑the‑bag, no‑mess kits, easy directions, minimal equipment, and video instructions for all learning styles, anyone can experience the calming, creative escape that baking has always been for me. My goal is to share that “mini vacation” with the world—one accessible, inclusive baking experience at a time.”

Also please follow her non-profit , Recipes 4 Learning and see how you can get involved and support a cause whose mission “is to provide job skills training and employment opportunities for those who are differently-abled through kitchen and recipe-based business experiences.”

Congratulations Lisa! You have been announced as a Momee Friends of Long Island Bright Pick. 

You are an outstanding business and organization on Long Island that provides quality services/ products to families. You take that extra step in supporting and promoting a more INCLUSIVE community.

We love you Lisa and appreciate all you do!