“The whole is greater than the sum of its parts …”Whether it’s talking about her professional life, personal life, or the spirit of giving back, this message, first expressed by Aristotle, is one in that drives Beth Goodner daily.
As the recently named CEO of TrustPoint, Goodner says she is honored by this VIP Womanspiration nomination, although her humble nature is evident as she quickly points to others whom she believes are more deserving of the honor.
“Our employees at TrustPoint are the backbone of our hospital and their contributio to TrustPoint should be the highlight,” she said. “There are countless examples of how all our employees do seen and unseen actions every day that assist our patients.”
Goodner has worked for TrustPoint Hospital since 2013, although she has worked in clinical and operational positions in the Middle Tennessee area for the past 25 years.
Originally from Lebanon, Tennessee, she and her husband Rod have enjoyed their life in Murfreesboro, having raised two children, now grown, here. When she’s not busy working, Goodner enjoys spending time outdoors as a way to reboot, specifically enjoying things like kayaking and Crossfit exercise.
After graduating from MTSU, Goodner went on to obtain her master’s degree in social work and business administration. After receiving her licensure in social work, she operated a private practice for years prior to starting at TrustPoint.
The behind the scene “little things” — which are actually big things — that Goodner sees employees doing each day in their quest to improve patients’ lives and their experience at TrustPoint are what makes TrustPoint so special.
“As much as public acknowledgement is special, there is much more quiet work that is done behind the scenes encouraging our patients to improve little by little,” Goodner says.
Goodner was first hired at TrustPoint to open the hospital’s 24-hour intake team and oversee its Intensive Outpatient program. Those responsibilities grew into her managing multiple clinical areas including social work, case management, and additional intake areas with the hospital’s business partners as well as ClearPath Clinic.
“I enjoy impacting macro changes that benefit the people and families of our community,” she said. “The health care setting, like all businesses, has complex and competing demands that must be managed in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.”
She enjoys the challenge of leading the efforts to prepare TrustPoint for the demands of the future. Currently, they are preparing to expand from 101 beds to 217 beds and increase service lines with the expected completion date being in the last quarter of 2018.
Goodner’s inspiration to lead her organization comes from her ultimate desire to serve others. “When I am able to offer advice, encouragement and general feedback, and that feedback enables employees to do their job with confidence, I know I am doing the right thing,” she said.
“Our job here is to help people at the most vulnerable points in their life, whether they are coming to us for physical or behavioral health needs.”
As a former business owner herself, she realizes the importance of establishing authentic relationships with patients, employees, community leaders and business partners. Goodner strives to manage as if she owned the organization. “If that level of ownership guides my everyday actions, the other details will usually work out,” she said.
In speaking about the important things that have shaped her in life, Goodner says that she’s been fortunate to have several great mentors throughout her journey. “Charlotte Buscher (RN, MN, CNS) is someone that I have worked for and with for many years and she taught me clinical skills, business skills and generally how to respectfully interact with colleagues,” she said. “General Keith Huber is another mentor that I’ve recently had the pleasure of getting to know. His advice has been beneficial when learning to navigate a dynamic organization.”
Goodner points to a book that General Huber suggested to her that’s served her well, and she encourages others to read it as well. The book, Lead Yourself First, helps readers find balance by doing things to reset, such as exercise. In addition to finding ways to stay centered, other advice Goodner shares regarding achieving success in business and in life: Take ownership in whatever you do and learn to listen as part of your communication skills.
As an influential leader of the Murfreesboro community, Goodner says she values reciprocation when it comes to serving the community. “Our community agencies need leaders to give back,” she said. “I continue to benefit from leaders giving back to me. Therefore, it will always be my responsibility to give back, whether that is one-on-one or in a larger community span.”