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Category: Visionary-Women-Driving-October2025

Nicole Odom-Hardnett: Leading with Compassion, Redefining Behavioral Health Care

Posted on by The Fortune Leaders

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

How Female Entrepreneurs Are Rewriting the Future of Business

Posted on by The Fortune Leaders

There is a tremendous movement that is currently taking place in the world of business, and male and female entrepreneurs are at the forefront of this shift.  The persons who are actively participating in this transition are the ones who are taking the initiative to push it. Women are breaking down barriers, reinventing industries, and redefining what it means to be successful in today’s economic setting. In the past, women were under-represented in the ecosystem of entrepreneurs, but now they are breaking down those barriers. When compared to the past, this is a tremendous shift.  The expanding impact of these individuals is not only serving as a source of motivation, but it is also contributing to the building of a future that is more forward-thinking and friendly to all communities from all walks of life.

When it comes to leading and making decisions, one of the most crucial adjustments that female entrepreneurs bring to the table is a fresh viewpoint. This is one of the most important things that they bring to the table.  There are many options that they offer, but this is one of the most significant ones. The socially conscious values of cooperation, empathy, and community impact are particularly resonant in today’s economy, and many businesses that are led by women place a significant emphasis on these characteristics. This is because these values are extremely effective in fostering social consciousness.    When this method is utilised, the results are, in most cases, cultures in the workplace that are more robust, increased levels of employee happiness, and sustained loyalty from customers. Female entrepreneurs are proving that it is feasible for businesses to flourish while simultaneously bringing about significant change. This is making it possible for women to be business owners. This is being accomplished by placing an emphasis, in addition to profit, on the purpose of the organisation.

Increasing the amount of capital that women in business have access to has been one of the most significant challenges that women in business have encountered throughout the course of business history. Although female entrepreneurs obtain a smaller proportion of venture capital than their male counterparts, there is evidence that they possess a tremendous knack for invention. Crowdfunding, microloans, and investment networks that are expressly targeted for women are some examples of alternative methods of financing. However, this list is not exhaustive.  These strategies are being utilised by a sizeable number of persons at the present time. This not only exemplifies their dogged drive, but it also demonstrates the enormous potential for providing greater equity to businesses that are managed by women.  In addition to demonstrating their tenacious resolve, the fact that they were able to overcome financial obstacles is a testament to their perseverance.

The development of technology and the proliferation of digital platforms have both contributed to an increase in the number of chances that are available to female entrepreneurs on the market today.    Two examples of the ways in which women are making use of digital resources to accelerate the speed with which they can establish, scale, and globalise their enterprises include e-commerce and marketing through social media. These are only two instances. Women can communicate directly with customers, establish brands in an authentic manner, and compete with larger corporations in their respective industries because to the platforms that are available to them.  The reason for this is to ensure that everyone is on an equal footing and to make the situation more egalitarian.

In addition to achieving success in their own businesses, female entrepreneurs are also making significant contributions to the growth of ecosystems that enable other individuals to achieve their full potential.   A significant number of individuals are engaging in activities such as reinvesting in their communities, providing guidance to women who are on the verge of becoming leaders, and generating opportunities for others to develop their skills and abilities.    The impact that they have is amplified because of this ripple effect, which ultimately guarantees that the future of business will not only be innovative but also more equal and diverse. This is because the ripple effect has a multiplicative effect.

They are rewriting the laws of business to make it more inclusive, resilient, and forward-thinking to accommodate the growing number of women who are entering the sphere of entrepreneurship, which is a trend that is expected to continue throughout the foreseeable future.  When it comes to the subsequent phase of economic expansion on a global scale, the emergence of female entrepreneurs is not merely a passing trend; rather, it is a movement that is significantly affecting the subsequent phase of economic expansion. This is because female entrepreneurs are more likely to be successful than male entrepreneurs.

Interview With Elinor Stutz, CEO of Smooth Sale

Posted on by The Fortune Leaders

Elinor Stutz, International Best-Selling and Evergreen Author, Top 1% Influencer, and
Inspirational Speaker, is renowned for breaking barriers in sales and leadership. Defying
the notion that “women can’t sell,” she became the top producer at every company she
worked for. Known as “The Walking Miracle” after surviving a broken neck, she leads
Smooth Sale with the empowering motto: “Believe, Become, Empower.” Her book Nice
Girls DO Get the Sale is a global bestseller and timeless classic, while her blog ranks
among the world’s top sales resources.

Here are the key highlights from the interview:

Tell us about the inception story of Smooth Sale. What inspired you to establish the organization, and what vision guided its foundation?

My sales career began with blatant discrimination due to being a female ahead of my time. My first job entailed mind-boggling efforts to get me to quit, but all the while, my clientele referred to me as ‘A breath of fresh air.’ Without training, by the fourth month, I became the top sales producer for the ‘games’ to grow uglier.

At the end of each year, over eleven years, management gave my hard-earned accounts to the men and tripled my quota for the following year. The only good news is that I became aware of ‘How to sell myself on interviews.’

Upon exiting my sales career, I was stopped at a red light when my life changed forever. Slammed into the rear of my car by another, I could feel my brain swaying in my head. No doctor wanted to touch me. For ten years, I was in dreadful pain, needing to put the back of my head in a noose, hanging from a door knob so that I could lie on the floor to relieve some of the pain. Ten years later, as a passenger on a rainy night, we encountered a second accident had me transported by an ambulance to the hospital.

It was while lying on the gurney as I was awaiting admission to the hospital, that a brilliant gold light encased my entire body, and then two visions, one after the other, appeared before me that would change my life forever. The first vision pictured me being a speaker, to which I whole-heartedly agreed. The second vision showed my life report card – high marks on the left-hand side, but completely blank on the right side, entitled ‘Community Service.’ I immediately pledged, in

my mind, to begin giving back to communities any way I could, but (being a sales negotiator), I added: ‘To give my best, I need to walk out of the hospital on my own!’ A blink of a gold light indicated to me that I would recover.

It was in the hospital ICU, upon recovering from surgery due to having endured an ‘irreparable broken neck,’ and being deemed ‘the Walking Miracle,’ that I knew that I was finished with corporate. My near-death experience highly motivated and inspired me to mentally lay out the plan for my third entrepreneurship, Smooth Sale; the definition being, ‘Earning a returning and referring clientele.’’

I have to date enjoyed an extra 23 years of life, and my commitment to serving communities is still alive today—the purpose of the Smooth Sale Blog is to help readers advance their careers and businesses. As a collaborative person, leaders in varying industries contribute content based on their experiences, helping to provide a wider array of insights from their unique experiences. The appreciation and opportunities due to the project are far greater than I could ever have imagined.

Every business has its share of hurdles in the beginning. What were some of the key challenges you faced in building Smooth Sale, and how did you overcome them?

I began with a symbolic ‘blank piece of paper’, not knowing the executives’ willingness to take a chance on a female sales trainer –the possibilities were almost zero. However, I became familiar with and admired the head of the Chamber of Commerce in our town, and I asked her for a meeting. Slowly but surely, the introductions she provided helped me to transform my knowledge into a fun and prosperous sales training program.

My technique is to ask open-ended questions for learning and to realize a better path forward. Accordingly, I created sales training materials for entrepreneurs and sales teams. My style was to ask questions upfront, such as, ‘How do you attract prospects’ attention?’

Another vital element is to share appropriate short stories from experience that produce laughter and the desire to learn more. Glowing testimonials came from both entrepreneurs and Silicon Valley sales teams that I had the privilege of training. I can proudly say that every session concluded with appreciation and applause.

The good and bad news is that the rave reviews did not follow upon moving North. Upon introducing myself as a sales trainer at a new event, the jeers were unimaginable. Thankfully, someone took me aside to say, ‘To establish credibility, you must write a book!’

My phone was silent, so there was nothing to lose with much to gain. All the horrific corporate stories came to mind; my goal was to reveal to readers how I was able to stand my ground and also ‘up the game’ so that they could do the same.

The manuscript broke many records, as did the formal publication of the book: The first publishing house agreed to publish the manuscript. The book was featured in TIME Magazine, and I appeared on ABC-TV News.

Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results very quickly became an International Bestseller. The ultimate achievement is that the book is Evergreen – among the classics!

Can you share your personal leadership journey? What experiences and turning points shaped your path as a leader in the business growth and sales transformation space?

Childhood was the perfect practice for what was to be. As a child, I was always inquisitive, relying on the question, ‘Why?’ For example, at age 10, I asked to sell Girl Scout cookies door-to-door. My mother told me it was unsafe to do so and to give the issue some thought. Accordingly, I thought of every possibility I could. At dinner, I let it be known that I gave much thought to my request and have one question. If it’s unsafe for me to sell Girl Scout cookies door-to-door, then why is it okay for you to do the same for the March of Dimes?’

The next morning, my very first prospect was an elderly lady. She kindly told me that her doctor gave her strict instructions to omit sugar from her diet; therefore, she was unable to purchase any cookies from me. The woman then politely closed the door.

However, I stood on the porch debating ‘whether to ask a question or not,’ my mother wasn’t certain what was going on with me as she was observing. About ten minutes later, the woman reopened the door to ask if I had a question. I then asked if she had any nieces, nephews, or grandchildren. Surprised, she said, “Yes, I do!’ I then asked, ‘Don’t you think they might visit more often if you kept a supply of snacks and treats in your pantry?’

Astonished, the woman looked at my mother while pointing at me to say, ‘Wow, she is good!’ She then purchased ten boxes of the Girl Scout cookies.

On a more disturbing front,  growing up among bullies, I learned how to not only defend myself but also turn the tables on them, despite being smaller and not nearly as strong. Our selection of words is vital for standing our ground, plus influencing clientele. 

The daily practice gave me the knowledge and the courage to stand up in the corporate arena for what was right. I’m one who took two different employers to court because they were attempting to cheat me out of bonuses that I rightfully earned. Each time, the judge banged the gavel so hard that most people in the courtroom jumped, as they exclaimed, ‘Pay her the money today!’

How have you personally driven innovation and transformation through your vision and leadership at Smooth Sale? Can you share a specific example where your approach created a significant impact?

To date, I have enjoyed an extra 23 years of life. My commitment is always with me to serve communities at large. The purpose of the Smooth Sale Blog  is to help readers advance their careers and businesses. As a collaborative person, I have others contributing content, helping to provide a wider array of insights and stories depicting how to advance one’s career and other endeavors. The appreciation and opportunities due to the project are far greater than I could ever have imagined.

How would you describe your personal leadership style, and in what ways do you nurture creativity, resilience, and emotional intelligence in the people you work with?

Long ago, a marketing expert advised that I drop being so highly competitive to become collaborative. The idea was frightening, but I was willing to give it a try. Almost magically, opportunities seemingly began to appear. Incorporating my sales style, I always encourage asking a question upfront to learn ‘why’ someone might want to work with me. The question has the other person speaking first so that I can ask questions as needed for a fuller understanding upfront.

Next, I ask more questions relating to how they see their progression forward and how they potentially view our working together and the benefits we may all derive from the collaborative effort. Finally, I have the necessary information to realize how to frame my experience to their interests and needs for us to find a meeting of the minds.

What does the future roadmap look like for you and Smooth Sale? Are there any upcoming initiatives, goals, or expansions you’d like to highlight?

I’m the creative type, so ideas are always with me. For now, the collaborative effort online, primarily via LinkedIn, is how I meet and connect with people globally, to realize with whom to connect, why others reach out to me for a connection, and ultimately, explore new possibilities.

In your view, what are the most essential skills or qualities leaders will need to thrive and make a meaningful difference in the future?

Our future is rapidly changing for how we will live and work. Curiosity is a critical component as it encourages one to learn about the latest findings concerning business, plus how regulations affect it. Next, one needs to connect the dots from their learning regarding the news, personal conversations, articles, and posts, and the outcomes of one’s efforts.

Moreover, not everyone is technically savvy, making it more critical to collaborate with others as Agentic AI and Robotics are seemingly taking over the workspace environment. More than ever, it is vital to be of a collaborative mindset both in the corporate environment as well as entrepreneurial endeavors to perform and serve others to one’s best.

Is there a personal message or guiding philosophy you’d like to share with our readers that best reflects your vision, values, and purpose as a leader?

One of my sayings is, ‘Our worst experiences can be our gifts in disguise when we are willing to learn from them.’

For example, being bullied daily as I was growing up, pointed me toward speaking to my reflection in the mirror in my room. I would take all the negative commentary directed at me to relay the pros and cons of what was stated, and for ideas to come to mind on how to proceed. And all the while, I would observe my facial expressions, hand gestures, and body language as my reflection, as I carried on the conversation. All of it proved to be outstanding sales training, unbeknownst to me at the time.

And of course, my commitment during my near-death experience to serve communities saved me to save others. Discrimination against women never stopped. Accordingly, the online blogging effort became my method for helping my audience to reach their goals and for me to enjoy my work on an ongoing basis. I feel privileged to be living my second life!

Interview With Clāra Ly-Le, Founder & MD Of EloQ Communications

Posted on by The Fortune Leaders

Clāra Ly-Le, Founder and Managing Director of EloQ Communications, a leading PR and marketing agency in Vietnam, has over a decade of experience blending sharp business insight with a bold, innovative approach that challenges industry norms. Alongside her leadership at EloQ, she serves as Vice Dean of the Faculty of Public Relations and Communications at Van Lang University, where she bridges academia and industry by equipping students with real-world skills and driving the professional growth of Vietnam’s PR sector. Respected as both an industry leader and an educator, Clāra is dedicated to nurturing talent and shaping the future of communications.

Here are the key highlights from the interview:

Q1. Brief the inception story of your organization? What inspired you to establish ELoQ Communications?

I am Clāra Ly-Le. EloQ Communications was born out of my vision to bridge global best practices in public relations with the unique cultural and market dynamics of Vietnam and the ASEAN region. I saw a clear gap that, while Vietnam’s communications industry was vibrant and full of potential, many brands, both local and international, struggled to connect authentically with Vietnamese audiences, and local agencies often lacked a truly global outlook.

In 2018, I founded EloQ Communications to address this need. From day one, our mission has been to combine strategic insight, creativity, and cultural sensitivity to help clients tell their stories in ways that resonate both locally and globally. Today, EloQ is a multi-award-winning agency serving clients from startups to Fortune 500s across ASEAN, helping brands tell their stories with clarity, creativity, and cultural intelligence.

Q2. What are the initial challenges that you faced during the inception and how did you overcome those challenges?

At the start, the challenge was shifting mindsets in Vietnam’s PR industry from transactional, pay-for-play media to ethical, strategic communication. We invested time in educating clients on the long-term value of authentic storytelling and relationship-building. Another hurdle was earning credibility as a young agency among established competitors. I overcame this by leveraging my PhD expertise, international network, and proven results to build trust. By staying transparent, delivering measurable outcomes, and upholding high professional standards, EloQ established itself as a multi-award-winning agency known for integrity, creativity, and cultural intelligence across Vietnam and ASEAN.

Q3. Can you share your leadership journey and what inspired you to become a leader in your field?

My path to leadership has been about adaptability and vision. I embrace a collaborative style, empowering people to bring their ideas forward and own their results. What inspires me most is seeing both my team and clients grow, whether that’s a young professional gaining confidence or a brand finding its authentic voice. Leadership, for me, is about creating an environment where trust, creativity, and shared success thrive.

Q4. What key qualities do you believe are essential for a leader in today’s business world?

Adaptability to navigate shifting markets and technologies, empathy to understand and connect with diverse stakeholders, and integrity to make decisions that build long-term trust.

Q5. What trends do you believe will shape your industry in 2025 and beyond?

I see three major trends shaping PR in 2025 and beyond: the rise of AI-powered tools transforming how we monitor, analyze, and personalize communication; growing demand for authenticity as audiences become more skeptical of polished corporate messaging; and deeper integration of ESG narratives as businesses are held accountable for social and environmental impact.

Q6. What advice would you give to aspiring leaders looking to make a difference in their respective fields?

Focus on impact, not just position. Build your network with authenticity; relationships often open doors skills alone can’t. And never compromise your integrity. Trust is the currency that sustains influence over the long term. Most importantly, lead with purpose. When your decisions align with a clear mission, you’ll inspire others and create change that lasts.

Q7. Can you describe the primary area of innovation you are focusing on within your business?

At EloQ Communications, our key innovation lies in crafting culturally intelligent, fully integrated campaigns that cut through the noise in Vietnam and across ASEAN. We specialize in tailoring brand messages so they resonate across multiple channels – traditional media, social platforms, and on-the-ground activations – while preserving authenticity. What sets us apart is our commitment to measurable impact: every campaign is backed by clear KPIs and transparent reporting. This ensures our clients, from local disruptors to global leaders, gain not only visibility but also long-term trust and influence in their target markets.

Q8. Brief us about your future roadmap?

Looking ahead, EloQ Communications will expand our footprint across ASEAN, building a stronger network of local experts to deliver seamless multi-market campaigns. In Vietnam, we aim to develop new service lines, such as advanced crisis readiness programs and sector-specific PR consulting, to address the evolving needs of our clients. We will continue to invest in talent development, ensuring our team stays ahead of industry trends while maintaining the cultural intelligence that defines our work. Our goal remains clear: to be the trusted partner for brands seeking high-impact, authentic communication that builds lasting influence in Southeast Asia.