Meet Dr. Kristen Sharp of Mount Juliet

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Kristen Sharp.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
My yoga journey began several years ago when I was searching for a way to manage stress and find some balance in my hectic life. Initially, I was drawn to yoga for its physical benefits, looking for a way to stay fit and flexible. However, realizing that yoga was more than a workout took a while. After recently moving to Nashville, I found it challenging to find a community where I could fit in. Yoga became a healing place to quiet my mind, connect with my breath, and find peace and clarity. This deeper connection kept me coming back to the mat, and over time, my practice evolved from a physical routine to a holistic way of life.

Moved by the profound changes I experienced, I decided to deepen my knowledge and completed my 200-hour RYT certification from Steadfast & True Yoga School. This training was pivotal for me, solidifying my desire to share the gift of yoga with others. I learned the technical aspects of teaching and the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students. Today, I teach various classes, from heated power flows to calming vinyasa sessions, to help others discover the incredible benefits of yoga. My classes focus on building strength, enhancing flexibility, and cultivating mindfulness, encouraging students to listen to their bodies and honor their journeys. Yoga has been a transformative force in my life, and I am passionate about guiding others on their paths to wellness and self-discovery. I’m grateful for the opportunity to teach and learn from my students every day, and I look forward to continuing this journey of growth and connection.

Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey to becoming a yoga teacher has been a challenging road. Like many, I’ve faced my share of struggles along the way. When I first moved to Nashville, I had difficulty finding a community where I could fit in. The transition was challenging, and I often felt isolated and disconnected. Yoga became my healing place, helping me find solace and grounding. One of the significant challenges was balancing my practice with the demands of teacher training. The intense training required a deep commitment to studying, practicing, and self-reflection. There were moments of self-doubt, physical exhaustion, and emotional vulnerability. However, these experiences were also the most transformative, pushing me to grow as a person and a teacher. Starting to teach was another hurdle. Building confidence to lead a class, finding my unique voice as a teacher, and dealing with the fear of not being “good enough” were all part of the process. I had to learn to trust myself and remember why I started this journey in the first place—to share the healing and joy of yoga with others.

Another struggle has been maintaining consistency in my practice and teaching, especially during personal upheaval or when life gets busy. It’s been essential to remind myself of the importance of showing up, even when difficult, and to practice self-compassion. Despite these challenges, every struggle has also been an opportunity for growth and learning. The road has been winding, but it has led me to a place where I can share my passion for yoga and help others on their journeys. I’m grateful for every obstacle that has shaped me into the teacher I am today, and I look forward to continuing this ever-evolving path.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do? What do you do?
I am a seasoned financial management professional with extensive experience in accounting and process improvement. I serve as a Controller at HCA Healthcare, overseeing financial operations for Behavioral Health Services. My role involves managing budgeting, forecasting, and analysis and ensuring compliance with financial regulations and internal policies.

What do you specialize in?

I specialize in several key areas:

• Financial Management: Expertise overseeing financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and revenue cycle management.
• Process Improvement: Proven ability to streamline accounting processes and enhance organizational efficiency.
• Leadership: Strong background in leading and mentoring finance and accounting teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Healthcare Administration: Specialized knowledge in healthcare financial management, focusing on improving employee retention and operational efficiency.

What are you known for?
I am known for my exceptional analytical skills, strategic thinking, and ability to drive organizational success. My colleagues often commend me for my strong communication and managerial skills, enabling me to manage complex financial operations effectively. Additionally, I have a reputation for building high-performing teams and implementing robust internal controls to safeguard organizational assets.

What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my role in transforming financial operations within the organizations I’ve worked for. A notable achievement includes my work at HCA Healthcare, where I led a team that significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of financial reporting and compliance processes. Additionally, completing my Doctor of Business Administration with a focus on healthcare administration was a significant milestone, as my dissertation on employee turnover provided valuable insights into improving retention strategies in healthcare settings.

What sets you apart from others?

Several factors set me apart:

• Comprehensive Education and Training: My academic background, including a Doctor of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration, an MBA in Management, and a Bachelor’s in Accountancy, equips me with a deep understanding of business and healthcare financial management.
• Diverse Experience: My experience spans various roles and sectors, from managing finances for large healthcare organizations to overseeing accounting operations for numerous facilities. This diverse background enables me to bring a broad perspective and innovative solutions to financial challenges.
• Commitment to Community and Professional Development: I actively contribute to the community and professional organizations, serving on multiple boards and committees. This involvement reflects my dedication to continuous learning and community service.
• Proven Leadership: My track record of mentoring and developing finance teams demonstrates my ability to inspire and lead others toward achieving organizational goals. My leadership style emphasizes integrity, accountability, and fostering a positive work environment.

We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Please share something that might surprise us.
Something surprising that most people who know me or my work might not know is that my journey into yoga and teaching is deeply personal and transformative. While my professional life is heavily rooted in financial management and healthcare administration, yoga has been a parallel passion that profoundly shapes who I am.

Despite my busy career and accomplishments in the corporate world, I’ve always found solace and balance in my yoga practice. It started as a way to manage stress and stay fit but evolved into a holistic practice that brings peace and mindfulness into my daily life. This personal journey led me to become a certified yoga instructor, allowing me to share the healing benefits of yoga with others.

This duality—balancing a demanding corporate role with a commitment to wellness and mindfulness—often surprises people. It underscores my belief in the importance of mental and physical well-being, no matter how busy or high-pressure life gets. It’s a reminder that even in the most structured and analytical environments, there’s always room for growth, self-care, and transformation.

Pricing:

• $45 – Private Yoga Lesson (1 hour 15 minutes)
• $120 – Private Party (Group of 6 or more)
• $20 – Weekly Session (50 minutes)

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogawithkristennicole?igsh=M3gxOWRyYnp6OXNx&utm_source=qr
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristensharp/

Image Credits
Photo taken by Gio Gutierrez