Author: The Fortune Leaders

In a world where healthcare challenges are becoming increasingly complex, leadership rooted in empathy and collaboration stands out as a beacon of hope. For nearly five years, the Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of Montreal, Jeane Day, has embodied that very spirit leading with heart, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity. Her journey is not merely one of professional growth, but of purpose guided by a lifelong passion for social causes and the well-being of others.

From her earliest days, Jeane, was drawn to the intersection of health and humanity. “From the very beginning, I have been driven by a deep interest in social causes and health issues,” she reflects. “At every stage, it has been people’s well-being that has guided my choices.” This intrinsic motivation has defined her path across various domains from paramedical care and pediatric foundations to workplace prevention, mental health promotion, and cognitive health. Each chapter in her journey has been a testament to her belief that the measure of true progress lies in improving lives.

A Mission Rooted in Compassion

Today, as Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of Montreal, Jeane, leads a team of nearly 60 dedicated professionals united by one mission to support individuals living with neurocognitive disorders and their caregivers with empathy, excellence, and innovation.

The Society’s work extends beyond traditional healthcare. It provides personalized support, peer-led support groups, respite services for caregivers, and cognitive stimulation activities for those living with Alzheimer’s and related conditions. But what makes its approach distinct is its human-centered philosophy blending art, physical movement, and social connection to nurture cognitive well-being.

“Our goal is to alleviate the personal and social consequences of Alzheimer’s disease through interventions that have a lasting positive impact,” she explains. “We also work closely with community partners to create a social safety net for families.”

Under her leadership, the organization has taken part in key provincial consultations, contributing to the National Policy on Neurocognitive Disorders and Alzheimer’s Disease ensuring that real-world insights from patients and caregivers inform public health strategies.

Balancing Vision with Action

Balancing short-term objectives with long-term aspirations is an art one that Jeane has mastered through experience and strategic foresight. For her, leadership means maintaining equilibrium between operational excellence and visionary ambition.

“Our long-term vision is built on continuity, collaboration, and care,” she says. “But every day, we must translate that vision into tangible results whether it’s improving services, supporting our staff, or deepening our community impact.”

Jeane’s leadership style is grounded in collective intelligence an approach that values teamwork, mutual trust, and the cross-pollination of ideas. “By joining forces with our partners and stakeholders, we share best practices and mobilize knowledge that fuels meaningful, high-impact action,” she explains.

Transforming the Organization from Within

One of Jeane’s proudest achievements as Executive Director has been strengthening the organization’s internal culture. “I’ve witnessed how investing in our people changes everything,” she says. “We’ve built a team that is not only skilled and professional but also deeply collaborative and courageous.”

This transformation has redefined the Alzheimer Society of Montreal’s DNA fostering trust, innovation, and a mindset of continuous improvement. Mental health in the workplace has become a central focus, ensuring that the caregivers of caregivers the staff themselves are nurtured, supported, and inspired.

“To me, leadership is not just about strategy; it’s about creating a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and empowered,” she notes. “When people feel supported, they bring their best selves to work. And that energy directly translates into better care for our clients.”

Leading with Mentorship and Collective Strength

Jeane’s leadership philosophy is built on mentorship, empowerment, and shared vision. “A clear vision is essential, but without a dedicated team that shares that vision, it’s impossible to make it real,” she reflects.

Jeane believes in surrounding herself with people whose strengths complement each other, creating a dynamic environment where creativity thrives. “What I love most is seeing my colleagues grow, thrive, and unlock their potential. Leadership is about truly understanding each person’s strengths and aligning them with meaningful projects.”

Trust, she insists, is the foundation. “It fuels growth, collaboration, and the kind of professional relationships that are grounded in respect and kindness.”

Driving Change Through Innovation and Advocacy

Among Jeane many initiatives, several have left an enduring mark on the Montreal community. One such effort “The Faces of Alzheimer’s It’s All of Us!” was a powerful public awareness campaign that reached thousands through the Montreal metro network. It humanized Alzheimer’s disease by showing the faces and stories behind the diagnosis, as well as the healthcare team supporting caregivers and their loved ones, fostering understanding and empathy.

She also led the creation of the first practical guide for individuals living with neurocognitive disorders and their caregivers, a 24-page booklet offering a more comprehensive approach of the disease and showcasing resources available to families. In 2024, she spearheaded a historic event at the Quebec Parliament, bringing together policymakers, scientists, and advocates to discuss advances in cognitive health and how to translate them into real-world solutions.

Beyond local impact, her vision has expanded globally. The founding of the Powerful Think Tank, an international working group for sharing best practices and innovations in dementia care, reflects her belief in collaboration without borders. “We can’t tackle global health challenges in isolation,” she says. “By connecting with global experts, we multiply our capacity to make a difference.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, her roadmap for the Alzheimer Society of Montreal is as ambitious as it is compassionate. The organization aims to make its services even more accessible across Montreal expanding respite care, cognitive stimulation programs, and peer support groups, while also strengthening initiatives centered on art, movement, and meaningful social interaction.

“As neurocognitive disorders continue to rise, we must meet this growing need with creativity, compassion, and determination,” she emphasizes. “Our challenge is not just to grow, but to evolve ensuring that what we offer remains relevant, impactful, and anchored in dignity.”

Part of that evolution involves empowering the workforce giving teams the right tools, training, and recognition to succeed. She is also a firm believer in impact measurement as a tool for accountability and improvement. “Impact isn’t just a number; it’s our compass,” she says. “It tells us if we are truly making a difference in people’s lives.”

Her vision extends beyond the city to a world where neurocognitive disorders are recognized as a major public health priority. Through global collaboration and advocacy, she hopes to push for stronger care systems, better prevention, and sustainable funding.

Lessons in Leadership and Legacy

For aspiring leaders in healthcare and nonprofit work, Jeane advice is simple yet profound: “Surround yourself with people who share your vision and your values. True strength lies in collaboration. It is through collective effort that we overcome challenges and celebrate success.”

Jeane believes that leadership, at its core, is a human journey. “It thrives on trust, empathy, and purpose. When we lead with heart and unite around a shared mission, we create change that lasts not just within organizations, but in people’s lives.”

Her mantra “Alone we go faster, together we go further” is more than an expression; it is the essence of her leadership philosophy. Every decision, every partnership, every initiative is rooted in that collective spirit.

The Heartbeat of a Purpose-Driven Life

What keeps her motivated day after day is the energy of her team and the shared commitment to improving care. “The diversity of talents, the richness of ideas that’s what drives me,” she says. “Those moments when perspectives converge and ideas spark that’s where transformation begins.”

For Jeane, leadership is not a title but a responsibility a call to action to make healthcare more compassionate, inclusive, and human. “Progress,” she concludes, “is a shared journey. Together, we build, we grow, and we make a difference.”

And indeed, through Jeane vision, empathy, and unwavering dedication, she is not only transforming an organization but redefining what it means to lead in healthcare proving that when compassion meets collaboration and collective intelligence, leadership becomes a force for lasting change. 

• 📌 Visit Jeane Day👉   – LinkedIn Profile
• 🌐 Explore Alzheimer Society of Montreal  👉 – Company Website

An inspiring conversation highlighting her entrepreneurial journey, leadership insights, and the innovative approach driving Steadfast Insurance’s success.

Can you share your professional journey and the inspiration that led you to co-found Steadfast Insurance? What motivated you to focus on this industry?

My husband, Adam, and I co-founded Steadfast Insurance LLC in 2019 with a shared vision to help families protect what matters most. In the beginning, I focused on life insurance while Adam managed property and casualty. About six months later, a conversation with a mentor changed everything.

She reached out with questions about long-term care insurance (LTCi). I didn’t have the answers, but that moment lit a fire in me to find them. Memories of all four of my grandparents needing extended care came rushing back. None of them had insurance or a plan in place, and our family carried the weight – physically, emotionally, and financially. I helped care for one of my grandmothers firsthand, and I’ll never forget how hard that season was.

That conversation became my “aha” moment. I knew that this was the work God was calling me to do – to help families plan, so they could face future care needs with confidence and compassion. Once I realized there were real insurance solutions to fund that kind of care, I was all in.

From there, I dove deep into learning everything I could about long-term care planning and insurance. I earned three professional designations: CLTC® (Certification for Long-Term Care), CSA® (Certified Senior Advisor), and LTCCP® (Long-Term Care Claims Professional)and began creating educational videos and resources to simplify this complex topic for families and financial professionals alike.

In 2022, I became a part-time CLTC® instructor, training financial advisors on how to engage their clients in meaningful LTC planning conversations. That same year, I launched the Steadfast Care Planning Podcast, where I interview industry experts and advocates about how to navigate aging, caregiving, and extended care with wisdom and grace.

What started as one conversation has grown into a clear mission – to help families protect their future, preserve their options, and experience peace of mind.

What is the core vision and mission behind Steadfast Insurance, and how do you believe your company is driving meaningful change in the insurance sector?

At Steadfast Insurance LLC, we recommend the policies and coverage that we believe will best protect our client’s quality of life if a claim occurs. Our vision with extended care planning is to help families create a plan, fund it, and share it with those they love so they can face the future with confidence, not fear.

Our mission is rooted in education and empathy. We believe clients make their best decisions when they understand their options, so we take the time to teach them what’s available. Every recommendation we make is personalized around the client’s unique situation – health, family dynamics, financial situation, and personal values to protect their quality of life if a claim occurs.

Beyond one-on-one guidance, we’ve built an entire ecosystem of educational resources such as videos, podcast episodes, blog posts, and downloadable guides to help people learn in whatever way suits them best. That commitment to clarity and accessibility has helped us stand out and reach clients nationwide.

We also strive to modernize how long-term care and extended care planning are delivered. Our online health prescreen form allows clients to share sensitive information privately and securely, and Zoom consultations make expert guidance accessible from anywhere. Electronic applications further streamline the process, saving clients time and stress.

Ultimately, Steadfast is driving change by blending compassion with technology bringing human connection and convenience together to make care planning simpler, smarter, and more personal.

As a woman leader in a competitive industry, how do you approach leadership and innovation to keep Steadfast Insurance ahead in the evolving marketplace?

Leadership:
I believe great leadership starts with humility, service, and continuous growth. I’ve been blessed by mentors who’ve supported me both personally and professionally and I try to pay that forward every chance I get. My leadership philosophy is simple: serve others, show integrity, lead with compassion, and give credit where it’s due. Comparison is a trap that robs us of perspective, so I focus instead on progress – how far I’ve come, what’s working, and where I can grow. I encourage others to do the same so they can discover their strengths, develop new ones, and take courageous, measured risks. Confidence and curiosity go hand in hand; one gives you the courage to step forward and the other keeps you learning once you do.

Innovation:
For me, innovation is rooted in curiosity and care. It’s not about chasing shiny new ideas – it’s about improving real experiences for real people. At Steadfast, we’re always asking: How can we make this simpler, faster, or better for our clients? Every mistake is a lesson and every challenge is an invitation to build a more effective, compassionate solution. Staying ahead means staying teachable; always learning, testing, and refining. Innovation doesn’t have to be loud – sometimes it’s as quiet as a better question or a more efficient process.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome them while staying true to your purpose?

Starting and growing a business comes with plenty of obstacles both seen and unseen. Most of my clients come through referrals from financial advisors, so I’ve spent years intentionally building those relationships. That like, know, and trust factor takes time, consistency, and a lot of faith in the process.

There were seasons, especially early on, when I questioned my approach and even my own abilities. My husband often reminded me: it’s about the long game, not the quick win. That mindset helped me stay grounded when progress felt slow.

My faith has anchored me. I believe God placed this work on my heart for a reason – to serve others and guide them through some of life’s most important planning decisions. When I remember that purpose, I can stay steadfast through every challenge.

How is Steadfast Insurance making a difference in people’s lives, and what makes your approach stand out compared to traditional insurance models?

At Steadfast Insurance, we’re not just helping people buy policies, we’re helping them protect their lives, their families, and their peace of mind. Long-term care planning can feel overwhelming, emotional, and often avoided. Our mission is to make it approachable and deeply personal.

We take an education-first approach, guiding clients through the “why” before the “what.” That means helping them understand how extended care could affect their families and finances and how thoughtful planning can provide security, dignity, and choices in the future.

What makes our model stand out is the humanity behind it. We listen first, tailor every recommendation, and walk alongside clients from education to implementation. Our process is collaborative and transparent – we explain every step so clients feel empowered, not pressured.

We’ve also modernized how care planning happens. From online prescreen forms that respect privacy to Zoom consultations and digital applications, we’ve designed a process that’s both compassionate and convenient. This blend of personal connection and innovation allows us to serve clients nationwide without losing the personal touch that defines who we are.

At the end of the day, the difference isn’t just in what we do, it’s in why we do it. Every plan we help create gives families confidence, freedom, and peace of mind when life takes an unexpected turn.

What trends do you foresee shaping the future of the insurance industry, and how is Steadfast Insurance preparing to adapt and lead in that transformation?

The long-term care and broader insurance industry are entering a season of transformation. I foresee continued product evolution with new LTC insurance solutions offering more flexible benefit designs, partial cash indemnity options, creative riders, and caregiver support features that make coverage more adaptable to real-life care situations. We’ll also see more short-term care plans, hybrid policies, and deferred annuities with LTC benefits, giving clients multiple pathways to fund their future care.

Underwriting will become more streamlined and data-driven. Electronic health records, predictive analytics, and wearable technologywill play an increasing role in risk assessment, helping carriers make faster, more accurate decisions with fewer medical exams.

At the same time, technology and AI will continue to reshape how coverage is delivered and managed from digital applications and e-signatures to more intuitive sales and claims platforms that improve both advisor and client experience.

I also anticipate more state-level public LTC programs to emerge, following the example of Washington’s WA Cares Fund. As these programs develop, private insurance will play an essential complementary role, offering flexibility and choice beyond what government plans provide.

Economic realities such as medical inflation and workforce shortages in caregiving will continue to drive costs higher. That makes education and proactive planningmore critical than ever.

At Steadfast, we’re preparing to lead through this transformation by staying on the cutting edge of product innovation and technology, while keeping our focus anchored on people. Our commitment to clarity, compassion, and continuous learning ensures we can help clients navigate this changing landscape with confidence.

What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs looking to create impact in their industries, and what legacy do you hope to leave as a visionary leader?

Stay faithful to the purpose God has placed on your heart. There will be doubts, detours, and days that test your confidence, but don’t let fear hold you back. Surround yourself with mentors who speak truth into your life, build a community that encourages you, and keep your focus on progress over perfection because comparison steals joy.

Lead with integrity, humility, and courage. Be generous with your knowledge and encouragement. The more you help others grow, the more your own influence expands – naturally and authentically.

As for legacy, I hope mine reflects steadfast faith, compassion, and positive impact. I want to be remembered as someone who used her gifts to serve others – to educate families, empower advisors, and bring clarity and peace to life’s hardest seasons.

If the people I’ve served feel more confident, more cared for, and more prepared for the future because of our time together, then that’s the kind of impact worth building a life around.

• 📌 Visit  Kelly Augspurger👉   – LinkedIn Profile
• 🌐 Explore Steadfast Insurance, LLC  👉 – Company Website

When asked what sparked her passion for teaching, Joan Gillman does not hesitate to trace the roots back to her high school years. Long before she became one of the most respected science educators in New York City, Gillman discovered the transformative power of education by teaching children to play the recorder, tutoring math in small groups, and leading inclusive playground games at her school. She also found joy teaching swimming to children, including those with special needs, and even stepped in as a substitute ballet teacher at a local dance studio. Those early experiences instilled in her a lifelong belief: every child deserves an opportunity to shine, no matter their ability.

It was this commitment to inclusivity paired with her deep curiosity about the natural world that laid the foundation for a career spanning more than four decades. Today, as a beloved science teacher at The Browning School in Manhattan, Gillman continues to bring that philosophy into her classroom, inspiring generations of students to embrace curiosity, creativity, and compassion.

Early Curiosity and Lifelong Passion for Science

Science was a fascination for Gillman long before she stepped into a classroom as an educator. As a child, she experimented with powders and liquids in her bathroom, convinced she would one day discover a new product. Snowstorms became scientific laboratories as she measured accumulation rates with a yardstick and tracked barometric pressure. Alongside her older brother, she built robots from shoeboxes, designed model cities, and constructed elaborate snow tunnels always engineering, always creating.

“I didn’t realize it at the time, but all those projects were helping me develop the same skills I would later pass on to my students,” Gillman recalls. Her natural curiosity, paired with an unwavering love of teaching, became the compass that guided her through her professional journey.

A Philosophy Rooted in Curiosity and Choice

Gillman’s teaching philosophy has evolved with the times, but one principle has remained constant: learning must be hands-on, engaging, and tailored to the child. Since joining The Browning School in 2018, she has taught across multiple grade levels, from second through sixth, and has also taken on advisory roles for middle school students.

Her classrooms are laboratories of curiosity. In fourth grade, students design and launch straw rockets, experimenting with variables like fin shape, nose cone size, and launch angles before redesigning their models based on data. In sixth grade, lessons on natural disasters transform into creative public service campaigns where students can make posters, film PSAs, or even invent board games to teach safety rules.

“I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all curriculum,” Gillman explains. “By letting students choose the medium that works for them, they not only demonstrate their understanding but also discover their own strengths.”

Her creative flair extends to music as well. To introduce new topics, Gillman often performs original science-themed raps, a tradition her students eagerly anticipate. The approach keeps energy high and reinforces the idea that science is not just to be studied but to be celebrated.

Building Environmental Stewards

Beyond the classroom, Gillman has made environmental education a cornerstone of her work. As a leader of The Browning School’s Green Team, she has guided students in organizing fundraisers, conducting Central Park cleanups, and promoting sustainable habits through weekly “Green Action” signs posted across campus.

The club’s annual Biodiversity Day, featuring guest speakers, workshops, and field trips, has become a highlight of the school year. For Gillman, such initiatives are more than extracurricular they are essential to preparing the next generation to tackle climate change.

“Planet Earth’s survival depends on them,” she emphasizes. “If I can help inspire even a handful of students to become environmental stewards, then I feel I’ve made a meaningful contribution.”

Adapting Through Challenges

Gillman’s resilience as an educator has been tested many times, most notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. When classrooms went virtual, she reimagined her teaching methods to ensure her students remained engaged. She sent lists of household supplies so families could replicate experiments from their kitchens and created interactive demonstrations over video calls. Parents expressed astonishment at her ability to make online science not just tolerable, but exciting.

Years earlier, another defining moment came during the 1986 Challenger disaster. Charged with explaining the tragedy to her sixth-grade class, Gillman realized how deeply teachers shape the emotional and intellectual lives of students. “That day showed me the profound responsibility educators carry,” she reflects.

Harnessing Technology for Engagement

From chalkboards to SmartBoards, Gillman has witnessed the technological evolution of education firsthand. What once seemed intimidating is now indispensable. She seamlessly integrates Chromebooks, interactive boards, and digital platforms like Seesaw, Google Classroom, and Canvas into her lessons, ensuring each age group has tools suited to their needs.

She sees technology as both a blessing and a challenge, noting that artificial intelligence will likely play an increasing role in science education. But her stance is measured: “Technology should enhance learning, not replace the skills students need to develop on their own.”

Mentorship Beyond Academics

Gillman’s influence stretches far beyond textbooks and experiments. Through her advisory role and her leadership with the Green Team, she helps students build empathy, resilience, and a sense of responsibility. A lesson on global water shortages once inspired a sixth grader to spearhead a fundraiser through the club, ultimately raising over $1,000 for water.org.

“These are the moments that show me teaching is about so much more than academics,” she says. “It’s about empowering young people to see themselves as capable of making real change.”

Recognitions and Accomplishments

Over her distinguished career, Gillman has earned numerous accolades. Her curriculum “Straw Rockets are Out of This World” was published by Science and Children in 2013 and later republished in Bringing STEM to the Elementary Classroom. She has contributed to professional texts, including What Teachers Want to Know About Teaching Climate Change, and has been a frequent presenter at national science conferences.

Her work has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who, which honored her with titles ranging from Top Educator to Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. She was also named the 2017 Urhy Teacher of the Year at the Calhoun School. Most recently, the International Association of Top Professionals selected her as its Top Educator of the Year 2025 an honor she describes as “humbling and exhilarating.”

Beyond accolades, Gillman values the opportunities to connect with peers. “Teaching workshops for fellow educators has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” she says.

Looking Ahead

As she looks toward the future, Gillman is focused on helping The Browning School fully implement the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) across grades K–8. She also plans to continue leading the Green Team, expanding its initiatives, and sharing her expertise at professional conferences.

She is optimistic about the future of education, envisioning a sector where collaboration, interdisciplinary learning, and environmental consciousness are central. “Learning doesn’t happen in isolation,” she reminds. “Science connects with math, art, literature and ultimately with life.”

Advice to the Next Generation of Educators

For aspiring teachers, Gillman offers three pieces of advice. First, never stop learning Professional development is key to longevity and enthusiasm in teaching. Second, keep a sense of humor. “Some days will test you, but humor will carry you through.” Finally, lean on your colleagues. “You are part of a community of professionals. Do not be afraid to ask for help.”

Teaching, she acknowledges, can be exhausting. But the rewards far outweigh the challenges. “There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing a child’s face light up when they understand something new.”

A Life Balanced by Music

Outside the classroom, Gillman finds balance through music. A skilled violinist and pianist, she plays in orchestras and continues to hone her craft. Music, she says, provides her with perspective: “When I struggle with a difficult piece, it reminds me of my students wrestling with new concepts. It deepens my empathy.”

Conclusion

For more than 40 years, Joan Gillman has devoted her life to education, weaving together science, creativity, and compassion. Her classrooms are places where rockets fly, disasters become learning opportunities, and environmental advocacy begins with a single idea. Recognized internationally for her contributions, she remains grounded in the simple joy of helping each child discover their potential.

In an era where education faces constant challenges, Gillman’s career is a testament to resilience, innovation, and heart. She embodies what it means to be a true leader in the field, one who does not just teach science but ignites a passion for learning, caring, and
creating a better world.

📌 Visit  Joan Gillman👉   – LinkedIn Profile

In the heart of every great leader lies a story one built on purpose, resilience, and an unrelenting drive to create change where it is most needed. For Dr. Nicole Odom-Hardnett, founder and CEO of Focus Point Behavioral Health, that story began with a deep awareness of human struggle the quiet battles that so many face without access to the right kind of care. What began as a vision to provide compassionate, person-centered treatment has grown into a transformative movement that redefines behavioral health services across communities.

The Journey of Purpose

Dr. Odom-Hardnett’s journey into behavioral health was born out of empathy and observation. Early in her career, she recognized a troubling pattern people seeking help were often placed into one-size-fits-all programs that did not acknowledge their individual stories. She saw how depersonalized care could leave people feeling unseen and unsupported. Determined to change that, she founded Focus Point Behavioral Health with a mission to deliver care that feels deeply human personalized, respectful, and compassionate.

“Too often, people are given a standard program that doesn’t fit their real needs,” she explains. “I wanted to create a place where healing is not about labels, but about restoring dignity.”

At Focus Point, every client’s story matters. Under Dr. Odom-Hardnett’s leadership, the organization has built an ecosystem of support designed not just for recovery, but for lasting transformation. It’s a philosophy that sees behavioral health as more than treatment it’s empowerment.

A Mission Rooted in Humanity

The core mission of Focus Point Behavioral Health is simple yet profound: to meet people where they are and help them move forward in healing. For Dr. Odom-Hardnett, this means treating the whole person mind, body, and spirit rather than focusing solely on diagnoses.

“Leadership, to me, is about restoring control and dignity,” she says. “When people feel seen, they begin to heal.”

This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of Focus Point’s approach. Programs are designed not just to treat, but to nurture confidence, independence, and hope. The organization’s model blends therapy with practical life support, ensuring that clients are equipped not only to recover, but to rebuild their lives with purpose.

Setting a New Standard in Behavioral Health

In an industry that is both sensitive and vital, Dr. Odom-Hardnett has emerged as a pioneer. At Focus Point, the emphasis is on compassion without compromise treating clients like family while adhering to the highest professional standards.

The organization’s CARF accreditation a prestigious mark of quality and accountability stands as testament to its commitment to excellence. “Achieving CARF accreditation demonstrates that our care meets rigorous national standards,” she notes. “It tells our clients and community that they can trust us to provide safe, effective, and ethical treatment.”

Focus Point’s programs integrate counseling with real-world support: from DUI/DWI assistance to job readiness programs and psychiatric rehabilitation. By addressing the social and emotional dimensions of recovery, the organization is proving that outpatient care can be both clinically sound and deeply compassionate.

Overcoming Challenges as a Woman Leader

The road to leadership has not been without obstacles. As a woman and often the only woman of color in executive healthcare circles, Dr. Odom-Hardnett faced systemic barriers that tested her resolve. Her ideas were sometimes overlooked, and her leadership style was measured against a different standard.

Yet, she turned adversity into agency. “I focused on letting results speak for me,” she reflects. “I built credibility through outcomes and cultivated allies who valued diverse perspectives.”

Her strategy extended beyond personal success she became a champion for inclusion, mentoring and sponsoring other women and underrepresented professionals. By nurturing diverse leadership pipelines, she has helped shape a more equitable healthcare culture.

Most importantly, she leads authentically not by emulating traditional norms, but by embracing empathy, collaboration, and strategic vision as her core strengths. “True leadership isn’t about fitting in,” she says. “It’s about standing firm in your purpose.”

Innovation that Transforms Lives

Under Dr. Odom-Hardnett’s leadership, innovation is not a buzzword it’s a daily practice. Focus Point Behavioral Health has embraced technology and modern therapy models to make mental health care accessible and effective

Through telehealth services, clients can receive counseling from home, eliminating barriers such as transportation and stigma. The organization also integrates medication-assisted treatment with individualized counseling, ensuring a holistic approach that supports both physical and mental well-being.

The psychiatric rehabilitation program further extends Focus Point’s impact by equipping clients with life skills, social support, and employment opportunities. “Recovery isn’t just about staying sober it’s about building a full, healthy life,” says Dr. Odom-Hardnett.

Empowering Women and Redefining Leadership

Being recognized as a “visionary woman driving change” holds deep meaning for Dr. Odom-Hardnett. For her, the honor is not just about personal achievement it’s about visibility and representation.

“This recognition means that our work is making a difference,” she shares. “I want other women to see that leadership does not have to look one way. We can lead with empathy, make bold decisions, and still build strong, sustainable organizations.”

Through mentorship, public speaking, and community engagement, she continues to inspire women in healthcare and beyond to embrace their voices and step into positions of influence.

Building Bridges with Communities

Focus Point’s success is built on connection not only with clients but with the communities they come from. Dr. Odom-Hardnett’s team actively participates in health fairs, school programs, and local outreach events, promoting mental health awareness and breaking down stigma.

“Education is a powerful tool,” she emphasizes. “When people understand that treatment works and help is available, they start to see behavioral health differently as a part of overall wellness.”

By showing up, sharing resources, and fostering open dialogue, Focus Point has become a trusted community partner one that transforms understanding into action.

The Road Ahead: A Vision for the Future

Looking forward, Dr. Odom-Hardnett envisions a future of growth, accessibility, and deeper impact. Over the next five years, Focus Point Behavioral Health plans to expand its reach particularly to underserved and rural populations that often lack quality mental health services.

The organization aims to strengthen its telehealth capabilities, broaden holistic wellness programs, and forge partnerships that connect clients to housing, job training, and community resources.

Her goal is for Focus Point to stand as a national model of integrated behavioral healthcare one that inspires others to lead with both compassion and innovation.

Values that Define a Leader

Dr. Odom-Hardnett’s leadership is grounded in three core values: integrity, compassion, and resilience.

“Integrity ensures that every decision serves our clients and community,” she says. “Compassion keeps us human in a field that can easily become clinical. And resilience reminds us that every challenge is an opportunity to strengthen our mission.

She also embodies the philosophy of servant leadership empowering her team to innovate, take ownership, and grow. “A leader’s legacy isn’t measured just by what they build, but by how many others they uplift,” she says.

Words of Wisdom for Future Women Leaders

For aspiring women leaders in healthcare, Dr. Odom-Hardnett’s advice is both practical and profound: lead with courage, persistence, and authenticity.

“Don’t wait for permission,” she urges. “Step forward with confidence, seek mentors, and remember that every obstacle you face becomes the foundation for others to rise upon.”

Her journey stands as proof that impact is not born from perfection, but from unwavering persistence and purpose-driven action.

A Legacy of Healing and Hope

Among her many accomplishments, earning CARF accreditation remains a proud milestone, reflecting the organization’s commitment to excellence. Recently, Focus Point expanded into Texas, extending its compassionate model of care to new communities while maintaining the standards that define its success.

Looking ahead, new initiatives are on the horizon from employment readiness programs to expanded telehealth access all designed to blend behavioral health with empowerment and community development.

For Dr. Nicole Odom-Hardnett, healing is not simply about recovery; it’s about rebuilding lives, restoring confidence, and redefining what care looks like. Her legacy is one of vision, heart, and empowerment a reminder that true leadership begins with compassion and grows through service.

As she continues to lead Focus Point Behavioral Health into the future, one thing is certain: her work is more than an organization it is a movement, transforming behavioral health into a space of dignity, connection, and lasting hope.

🌐 Explore Focus Point Behavioral Health👉 – Company Website