One Heart at a Time: The Ripple Effect of Workplace Wellness
One heart at a time
One Heart at a Time: The Real Reason I Do What I Do
If you’ve ever heard me speak, you’ve likely heard me say:
“We build healthy happy teams one heart at a time.”
It’s not just a catchy phrase. It’s my mission. My compass. My “why.”
Today, I want to take you behind the scenes and share the deeply personal story that fuels everything I do—because understanding this can change how you look at wellness, especially in the workplace. It’s not about six-packs or salad bars. It’s about life. And sometimes, it’s about saving one.
The morning that changed everything
The Morning That Changed Everything
Several years ago, a dear friend of mine experienced the unimaginable. Her husband died of a massive heart attack. At work. In the morning. With no warning.
She didn’t get to say goodbye.
That moment haunts me—not just because of the suddenness or the pain, but because I knew they were trying. My friend had been gently encouraging him to move more, to eat better, to make time for his health. He was listening. He wanted to change. But the effort came too late.
Too many people are walking around stressed, inflamed, overworked, undernourished, and completely disconnected from their bodies. They intend to make changes. They plan to start Monday. They mean to prioritize health after the next big deadline.
But sometimes, Monday never comes.
That’s why I do what I do. Not to get people in shape for bikini season. Not to increase KPIs for the sake of numbers. But to help that one heart—the one that’s trying, the one that’s overwhelmed, the one that might not know how much time it has left.
Build healthy habits easily!
Building Habits That Save Lives
When I work with companies today, I don’t just drop a few handouts in the breakroom or preach “eat more kale” from the front of a conference room. I guide teams through six-week wellness challenges that build real, sustainable habits—not perfection, but progress.
Why six weeks?
Because six weeks is long enough to feel a shift, to prove to yourself you can do it, and to begin rewiring your routines. It’s the sweet spot where momentum starts to take hold. People begin sleeping better. Moving more. Saying no to that second soda without even thinking about it. And most importantly—they start to believe in themselves again.
I say it all the time:
“It’s not about perfect action. It’s about consistent action.”
Small steps, taken consistently, lead to massive results. And those results don’t just impact the workplace—they ripple out into homes, marriages, children, and communities.
I’ve seen it happen. And I’ll never get tired of watching it unfold.
The Ripple Effect
A Ripple Effect That Goes Beyond ROI
Corporate wellness programs are often measured by what they save: lower insurance premiums, fewer sick days, reduced turnover. And yes, I love showing off those numbers. They matter.
But what really excites me? The intangibles.
Like the dad who starts playing catch with his son again because his joints don’t ache anymore.
The manager who stops snapping at her team because her stress levels are finally under control.
The employee who used to dread Mondays, but now looks forward to showing up because he feels like he matters.
This is what wellness is about.
Not selling more standing desks or protein shakes.
But creating environments where people feel energized, appreciated, and alive.
From bootcamps to better tech
From Bootcamps to Better Tech
Back in 2014, I worked with Allied Concrete. I ran quick, fun, 2-week bootcamps that helped their team kickstart a healthier lifestyle. And it worked. We got sweaty. We laughed. We bonded. Some folks lost weight, others just found a new appreciation for movement.
Fast forward to today—and I’m still working with that same CFO from Allied. He’s now retired, but I help him stay strong, youthful, and vibrant. That relationship, built over a decade ago, is proof that this work lasts.
These days, I use technology that makes it easier than ever for busy teams to stay on track—think wearable heart rate monitors, simple stress management tools, meal tracking apps, and bite-sized education. Wellness shouldn’t be complicated. It should feel like a relief, not another item on your to-do list.
And with the right tools and the right coach (hi!), it can be.
The Power of One Heart
The Power of One Heart
When I meet with a company, I’m not looking to pitch a product. I’m hoping to reach that one heart.
The one that’s scared to speak up.
The one that doesn’t know where to start.
The one that’s ready for change, but needs support.
Because when you help that one heart? Everything changes.
That heart goes home healthier. That family breathes easier. That office becomes brighter. That community becomes stronger.
That’s the ripple effect I live for.
Let’s talk about your one heart
Let’s Talk About Your One Heart
Whether you’re a leader, an HR manager, or just someone who wants to create real change, I’d love to explore what this might look like for you and your team.
No pressure. No sales tactics. Just a real, human conversation about how we can make wellness feel possible again.
If you’re ready—or even just curious—book a discovery call with me here.
Let’s talk about that one heart that’s quietly waiting for someone to care.
About Kathie Owen
Kathie Owen is a corporate wellness consultant, motivational speaker, and mindset coach who helps teams become healthier and happier—one heart at a time.
With a background in fitness, psychology, and leadership, she’s worked with companies across Texas to reduce burnout, improve culture, and build wellness programs that actually work.
Her signature 6-week “Better You” challenges combine science-backed strategies with heart-centered coaching.
When she’s not consulting, you’ll find her walking her dog Rusty, speaking at Toastmasters, or soaking in nature with a strong cup of coffee and a stronger sense of purpose.
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