Heather Jones Landers, owner/lead instructor, Hot Yoga Lebanon
She was born a fraternal twin, and her sister remains her best friend—something for which she's incredibly grateful. She's a graduate of Cumberland University, where she earned degrees in business, marketing and accounting. Prior to becoming a yoga instructor, she worked as an accountant for several local businesses.
Heather and her husband, Greg, will celebrate 24 years of marriage this November. They have one son, Chadwick Wilson, who's named in honor of her late brother, Chad. He attends Friendship Christian School.
WHAT COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?
“I hope to leave a lasting impact by showing the Lebanon and Wilson County community how deeply I care for and support them. My goal is to create a space where individuals feel seen, heard and valued, no matter where they are in life. It's truly a privilege to serve this community, and I'm committed to never taking that responsibility for granted.”
BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW IT SHAPED YOU:
“One of the most meaningful pieces of advice I’ve received is to stay grounded in faith and trust the process, even when the path is uncertain. This perspective has helped me navigate both personal and professional challenges with resilience, patience and a sense of purpose.”
WOMEN WHO'VE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST; WHY?
“The women who influenced me most are my grandmothers, my mother and my mother-in-law. My grandmothers were hardworking women who prioritized their faith and families, setting a strong foundation for future generations. My mother and mother-in-law have exemplified unconditional love, grace and forgiveness. Their strength and perseverance continue to inspire me, especially during challenging times.”
IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
“I would encourage my younger self to love and trust who you are. Your body is strong, capable and created to do hard things. Stay rooted in your values, cherish your relationships and approach life with intention, because every decision matters. Most importantly, remain grounded in faith; it will guide you through every season of life.”
DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL FOR SUCCESS?
“My daily routine has evolved over the years, especially after becoming a mother. Many mornings begin early, often teaching a 5 a.m. class, followed by time at home caring for our family and preparing our son for school. On mornings I’m not teaching, I focus on planning classes and setting the tone for the day ahead. I approach each day with intention, taking it one step at a time."
Sarah Haston, economic & community development director, City of Lebanon
This area leader cares deeply about this community and its residents. Everything she does in economic and community development aims to create opportunities and enhance the quality of life. "It’s fulfilling work, and I’m proud to help shape Lebanon’s future. However, the job I'm most proud of is being a mom to Charlie Mae and Addison," she clarifies.
WHAT COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?
“I aim to leave the Lebanon community stronger, more connected and better prepared for long-term success. This involves supporting sustainable growth, creating opportunities for local businesses to thrive, and ensuring development still preserves the feeling of home. If we can build a community where people are proud to live, work and invest, then I’ve achieved my goal.”
BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW IT SHAPED YOU:
“’Be consistent and do what you say you’re going to do.’ It sounds simple, but it has shaped my approach to leadership and relationships. Trust develops over time, and consistency is what builds it. In this role, that’s everything, whether you’re working with businesses, partners or the public.”
WOMEN WHO'VE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST; WHY?
“I’ve been fortunate to learn from strong, driven women who lead with confidence and integrity. The women who've influenced me most are those who show up, do the work and support others along the way. They’ve demonstrated leadership doesn’t need to be loud to be impactful; it just needs to be steady and genuine. My grandmother taught me that feeling gratitude without expressing it is like buying a gift and not giving it. I always want to make sure I thank everyone who has helped me along the way.”
IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
“Don’t rush the process or get out of the fast lane. Every experience, whether good or challenging, is building something in you that you’ll need later. Trust that growth takes time, and don’t hesitate to step into opportunities even if you don’t feel 100% ready. Everyone has to start somewhere, and perfection definitely isn't the starting point.”
DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL FOR SUCCESS?
“First, I don’t check my cell phone in the morning until I’m ready to leave the house, and I like to see natural light within the first 15 minutes of waking up. I also enjoy a cup of coffee. I prefer to start my day with a clear plan and prioritized list. Spending a few minutes in the morning organizing what needs to be done helps me stay focused and intentional throughout the day, especially in a role where priorities can change quickly. My daily routine varies, so knowing what absolutely must be done that day is very helpful.”
Suanne Bone Leeper, executive director, Our Sisters Keeper
This community advocate is thankful for family, friends and a loving community that supports the work of Our Sisters Keeper and many other nonprofits in the county. She’s also grateful for a loving and supportive husband, Tim.
WHAT COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?
“I believe in second chances and being a champion for others. It's important to invite others in and make them feel at ease. I hope prison and jail ministries continue, and I hope our community is guided by purpose in this ministry."
BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW HAS IT SHAPED YOU:
“My dad always told my brother and I to have a firm foundation and leave the world better than we found it. This advice guides me in prioritizing activities based on what best matches my values.”
WOMEN WHO'VE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST; WHY?
“My grandmother, Margaret Bone, for living out her faith, showing kindness and Southern hospitality to those around her, and leading with a gentle spirit.
My mother, Patricia Bone, for her unwavering devotion and love of family, her work ethic, lively spirit and love of music.
My friend, Beth Prichard Geer, for giving me a chance with a second career, teaching me that work families are necessary, and introducing me to cultures different from my own.”
IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
“Find balance in all aspects of your life, with family, friends, career and civic responsibilities.”
DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL FOR SUCCESS?
“Early morning workouts, reading a devotional or inspirational message and a few minutes of quiet time.”
Rev. Regina Girten, founder/executive director, Volunteer Network
Living in Wilson County is truly one of the greatest honors of Regina’s life. She asserts that she loves the community deeply and feels grateful for every opportunity to serve here. “I look forward to how God will continue to guide that calling as the seasons of life change. And at the center of it all is my family; raising my girls and sharing this life with my husband, Jeff, is a gift I don’t take for granted,” she adds.
WHAT COMMUNITY IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE?
“I hope to help connect people to the real needs within our community in ways that inspire meaningful action. At the heart of my work is a deep desire to serve others, ensuring every person is treated with dignity, respect and fairness. If people remember anything about me, I hope it’s that I genuinely care about our community and am committed to helping it become a place where everyone belongs and has the opportunity to thrive.”
BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED; HOW IT SHAPED YOU:
“When I was younger, my Uncle James told me to find what makes my heart burn with passion and to do that every single day. My Aunt Harriet would always say if there’s no fear involved, then it’s probably not worth doing. They were both incredibly inspiring to me, and their words have really stayed with me. Together, that advice has shaped how I live and lead; it keeps me focused on using my gifts to meet real needs in my community, even when it feels uncertain or out of comfort zone. And it’s also given me a deep desire to bring others along with me, so we can make a difference together.”
WOMEN WHO'VE INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST; WHY?
“I’ve been shaped by so many strong, loving women. My mother and Aunt Harriet were especially formative, modeling strength, compassion and resilience. My mother-in-law and sisters-in-law have shown me what it means to love your family well and be fully present in those roles.
I’m also deeply grateful for women who've walked alongside me: my college friends, “The Right Girls,” my childhood best friend Lindsey, my friend Emma, my sister, and my local best friend, Taryn. They’ve encouraged me to stay true to who I am through every season.
Each of these women has shown me how to work hard, pursue your dreams and stand firm in what you believe. But just as importantly, they’ve reminded me that joy, laughter and time with the people you love matter most, and that who you are is far more important than what you do.”
IF YOU COULD GIVE ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
“To give myself more grace, to let go of the need to be perfect in every area of life. That’s actually something my husband still reminds me of today. I’d also say to trust that the deepest desires in your heart will come in time. Keep working hard, but don’t be so hard on yourself—you’ll always be your own toughest critic–and it will all come in time. It’s okay to pause, breathe, and take a break along the way.”
DO YOU HAVE A MORNING/DAILY RITUAL FOR SUCCESS?
“As a mom of two young girls, mornings can feel a little rushed—and I’ll admit, I’m not naturally a morning person. But I try to start each day grounded by spending time in prayer and meditation to center myself. There’s almost always a cup of coffee involved, too. And on my best days, fitting in hot yoga really sets the tone and helps me show up at my best.”