Tabitha Turner
There’s no shortage of success stories in Nashville, and many of those stories belong to the incredible women who are paving their own path and opening doors for generations to come.
Whether they’re building an idea from the ground up, crunching numbers, or working to make a difference in the lives of others, these are the trailblazing women of Music City — and their stories are sure to inspire you.
Kristen Sharp, DBA, MBA Market CFO, Behavioral Health Services at HCA Healthcare
DAY IN THE LIFE
I provide financial leadership for three behavioral health facilities in the DFW area. My role involves overseeing f inancial operations, developing strategies for long-term growth, and ensuring the sustainability of high-quality mental health services. I work closely with hospital leadership to align financial performance with clinical outcomes, making sure that every decision supports both operational excellence and compassionate patient care. At the heart of my work is a commitment to improving access to behavioral health services and ensuring that our facilities are equipped to serve the evolving needs of our communities.
EARLY ASPIRATIONS
As a kid, I was always drawn to helping people and teaching, so I naturally thought I wanted to be a teacher. I loved explaining things, encouraging others, and finding ways to make a difference. As I got older, I became fascinated by how math connected to everyday life; how numbers told stories and influenced decisions. That curiosity led me to a f inance academy in high school, and that’s where my passion for accounting and finance really took shape. I realized I could still help people, just in a different way. Now, I get to blend my love for numbers with my desire to create impact, ensuring that financial strategies support the well-being of patients and the communities we serve. I also get the chance to drive healthcare in a meaningful way to make sure we keep patients at the forefront, and we see them as human before anything else.
CHALLENGES FACED
Early in my career, one of the biggest challenges was learning to balance ambition with humility. As someone who was eager to grow and take on new responsibilities, I had to navigate the pressure of proving myself in a male-dominated f ield. I quickly realized that it wasn’t just about hard skills, it was about building relationships, understanding the big picture, and learning to lead with empathy. Becoming a CFO at the age of 30 presented its own set of challenges. I often walk into rooms where I am the youngest person at the table, and that can sometimes shape the way people perceive me. However, I see this as an opportunity to not only prove myself but also to shape people’s expectations. It’s about showing that leadership isn’t determined by age, but by the value and insight you bring to the table. Additionally, as both a woman and an African American woman in a leadership role, I’ve faced unique challenges in navigating spaces where I may be one of the few — or the only — person of my gender or ethnicity. Being a minority in this way means I often have to work harder to earn respect and recognition. But it also fuels my drive to break barriers and pave the way for others who come after me. I’m committed to showing that diversity isn’t just important — it’s essential for the strength and success of any organization.