Debra Schardt, DSL, MBA-HCA, RN
Executive Coach | Leadership Mentor | Breast Cancer Survivor

As a passionate leader and advocate for emotional intelligence, I am deeply committed to empowering emerging, new, and experienced leaders to realize their full potential. With over 35 years of experience as a registered nurse in healthcare leadership, business management, and executive coaching, I bring a unique blend of strategic insight and hands-on expertise to my coaching practice.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of leading and mentoring individuals and teams across a variety of healthcare settings, fostering an environment of growth and collaboration. From building high-performing cross-functional teams to guiding leaders through complex challenges, I am dedicated to helping others unlock their capacity to lead with confidence and emotional intelligence.

I am also a breast cancer survivor, and my journey through treatment has deepened my understanding of resilience, compassion, and the importance of a strong leadership mindset in overcoming adversity. This personal experience continues to shape the way I mentor and coach, as I understand the power of mindset and self-awareness in leadership.

I hold a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership and a Master’s in Healthcare Administration, both with honors, and am certified in higher education teaching and utilization review. My professional background includes senior roles in health systems, consulting, and executive coaching, where I’ve built and led initiatives to drive organizational change, improve performance, and guide leaders through transformational growth.

My passion lies in developing leadership at all levels. Whether you are just starting out in your career or have years of experience, I believe that great leaders are those who embrace growth, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence to create meaningful, impactful change.