My journey from military service to launching Blu Impressions Publishing is a testament to resilience, faith, and purpose. Before the Army, I was already a graphic designer, and even while serving for over 21 years, I continued freelancing and honing my craft. But life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with AML leukemia. The battle against cancer was one thing, but losing my eyesight due to chemotherapy changed everything. I was declared legally blind for four years, and in that darkness, I questioned everything—who I was, what my purpose was, and what life had in store for me.
My turning point? A coloring book. A hospital volunteer handed me one, and as simple as it seemed, it became my tool for healing. I used those pages—filled with Barney, Big Bird, and ABCs—to retrain my eyes, but I also rediscovered my creative gifts. As my vision returned, so did my clarity. I didn’t just want to create—I needed to create. I started designing journals and coloring books that reflected my experiences and culture—things that looked like me and resonated with my journey.
What began as a personal healing process evolved into a business with a mission. I realized I wasn’t alone—others needed tools to express themselves, share their stories, and turn their experiences into impact. That’s how Blu Impressions Publishing was born. It wasn’t an easy road—battling illness, reclaiming my vision, and building a business from nothing—but it was the most fulfilling journey of my life. Today, Blu Impressions Publishing isn’t just a company; it’s my testimony. It’s proof that even in life’s hardest moments, we can create something extraordinary.
How did your experience in the Army shape your leadership style and approach to running a business?
The Army ingrained in me discipline, structure, and an unshakable work ethic—principles that are the foundation of how I lead Blu Impressions Publishing. But beyond discipline, the military taught me about people. As an officer, I was responsible for the lives and well-being of others. That level of accountability shaped my leadership philosophy—lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and always put people first.
I apply that same approach to my business. At Blu Impressions Publishing, I don’t just focus on the books—I focus on the people behind them. I take the time to understand my clients’ stories, their audience, and their mission so that the books we create aren’t just published—they’re purposeful, impactful, and positioned for success. My leadership style has evolved from rigid military structure to a more personalized, client-centered approach. I believe leadership isn’t about control—it’s about empowerment, service, and delivering results that truly matter.
What challenges did you face when transitioning from military service to entrepreneurship, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge? Rebuilding my identity. For over two decades, I wore the uniform—I had structure, mission, and purpose. Leaving the Army meant figuring out who I was outside of that world. Add to that the battle with cancer, the loss of my eyesight, and the uncertainty of what came next, and I found myself in a space of questioning everything. What was I supposed to do? Where did I fit in? Was there a path forward?
The answer wasn’t immediate, and the transition wasn’t easy. I tried multiple business ventures—real estate, daycare ownership—before realizing that my true calling was creating and helping others share their stories through publishing. I overcame these challenges by embracing faith, resilience, and the belief that everything I went through was preparing me for something greater. Blu Impressions Publishing was the answer I had been searching for—I just had to trust the process, push past the fear, and step fully into my purpose.
What inspired you to start Blu Impressions Publishing, and how did you know it was the right time?
I didn’t choose Blu Impressions Publishing—it chose me. After losing my sight, battling cancer, and rediscovering my creative gifts, I knew I was being led to something bigger. But I wasn’t sure what that looked like. I tried multiple business ventures, but nothing felt fulfilling. Then it hit me—I needed to create. I needed to help others do the same. I saw a gap—so many coaches, entrepreneurs, and leaders had stories and expertise, but they didn’t know how to structure them into impactful, revenue-generating books.
That’s when I knew. Blu Impressions Publishing wasn’t just a business—it was my calling. The right time wasn’t something I planned—it was something I stepped into. I finally stopped searching and started fully embracing my purpose. Today, I wake up knowing that every book we create is more than words on a page—it’s a legacy, a tool for transformation, and a means to help others walk in their greatness.
What role does discipline play in your daily life as a business owner, and how does it benefit your clients?
Discipline is non-negotiable. The military trained me to show up, stay focused, and deliver—no matter how I feel, no matter the challenges ahead. That discipline is the reason Blu Impressions Publishing continues to thrive and grow. Discipline keeps me committed to my clients. When an author entrusts us with their story, it’s my responsibility to ensure it’s published with excellence. It also ensures high-quality work. Before any project is completed, we ask: “Do you like it, or do you love it?” If the answer isn’t love, we start over.
Discipline fuels innovation. I don’t settle for “good enough.” I push myself and my team to create books that aren’t just published but are positioned for impact, authority, and income. For me, discipline isn’t about routine—it’s about commitment to a vision, service to others, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. My clients benefit because I treat every book as if it were my own. That’s the standard. That’s the Blu Impressions way.
Connect with Dr. Lena Payton Webb
Instagram: @bluimpressionspublishing
Facebook: bluimpressionspublishing
LinkedIn: Lena Payton Webb
Website: www.pagestoprofits.com
