Chantelle L. Johnson, MBA, CDP

When asked what I attribute my success to, I often reflect on the 25 years I’ve spent shaping leadership narratives and guiding organizations to rediscover their purpose. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about strategy—it’s about soul. As the founder and CEO of Talent for the Culture, my journey has been one of transformation: transforming workplaces, leadership, and the human connections that make both thrive. From my early days in corporate leadership and executive search consulting to my current work helping organizations evolve their culture from the inside out, my approach has always been consistent: keep the human at the center of the business. I believe that when people feel seen, valued, and heard, organizations flourish in ways that metrics alone can’t capture. One of my proudest moments came when I facilitated collaboration between employee resource groups and a corporate political action committee. Together, we turned conversation into meaningful policy change, fostering a stronger sense of belonging across the organization. This is the kind of impact I strive to create—change that endures. As founder of Talent4dCulture, my mission is clear: to help organizations move beyond compliance and into connection, building workplaces where people don’t just show up—they truly belong.

The best career advice I’ve ever received centers on the power of mentorship. Two individuals have profoundly shaped the way I lead: Kevin Myatt, who taught me to lead with heart, and Doug Smith, who grounded me in the financial and strategic realities of business. From Kevin, I learned the importance of empathy in decision-making from Kevin; and from Doug, I learned the discipline of accountability. Their guidance continues to inform my leadership philosophy to this day. When you start a business, you’re offering more than a product or service—you’re offering your perspective. Understanding what sets your approach apart and how you deliver meaningful results is key. Your personal brand should clearly and consistently reflect that unique value.

To young women entering my industry, my perspective as an emerging founder is simple: know your worth, assess your skills, and build your network before you actually need it. Entrepreneurship isn’t a single leap—it’s a progression, a careful alignment of purpose, preparation, and people.

When I left corporate America to launch Talent for the Culture, I thought I understood entrepreneurship. I quickly realized that running a business requires more than expertise; it demands clarity, courage, and consistency. Before you think about logos, websites, or business cards, take the time to get crystal clear on why you’re doing this. Your “why” is what will keep you moving forward when challenges arise. For me, it was about creating a business that helps organizations evolve their culture and leadership while keeping humanity at the core. That purpose became my anchor.

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about passion; it’s about preparation. Be honest about what you do best and where you’ll need support. Early on, I recognized that while I had deep expertise in people and culture, I needed guidance in operations, finance, and marketing. Bringing in experts allowed me to focus on my strengths while strengthening the business overall.

Finally, relationships are your most valuable currency. The connections I nurtured throughout my corporate career became the foundation for my first clients, mentors, and collaborators. Don’t wait until you’re in business to start building your community—start now. And remember: networking is about genuine connection, not transactions.

Right now, businesses are navigating a complex landscape. Economic pressures, organizational restructuring, and workforce turnover all create significant challenges, but they also present opportunities to strengthen teams and drive sustainable growth.

Modern leaders face the added pressures of integrating AI, adapting to shifting political climates, and balancing innovation with empathy. Success in today’s environment requires not only strategic thinking but also a deep commitment to the people who make the organization thrive.

The values that guide me in both work and life are integrity, transparency, and care. Integrity is non-negotiable—it means doing what’s right, even when it’s inconvenient or unpopular. In business and in life, I believe your word should hold weight. Every partnership, client engagement, and leadership decision I make begins with a simple question: Does this align with my values? When integrity leads, trust follows—and trust is the heartbeat of every successful relationship.

Transparency is equally essential. Honest communication builds strong foundations, whether I’m consulting with executives or mentoring emerging leaders. Creating open dialogue—spaces where truth can be shared without fear—allows people to see not just what you do, but why you do it. It’s how we cultivate cultures that are authentic, accountable, and resilient.

At the center of my work is care—for people, purpose, and progress. Leadership is, at its core, an act of service. To care is to listen deeply, to see people for who they are, and to create environments where they can thrive. Caring doesn’t weaken leadership—it strengthens it, turning strategy into impact and workplaces into communities.

Outside of work, I draw inspiration from the arts, particularly ballet and independent film. I once had the privilege of introducing the legendary Debbie Allen for a fireside chat, an experience that reminded me of the powerful link between creativity and leadership. Whether on stage or in the boardroom, both require vision, resilience, and the courage to move through fear.