Leading with Heart: Kimberly Hardy-Barnes Starts Her Next Adventure as a Focal Point Owner
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Celebrating Kimberly’s New Chapter in Business Ownership
FranCoach is thrilled to announce that Kimberly Hardy-Barnes, a dedicated leader and lifelong relationship builder, has launched her journey as a Focal Point business coaching franchise owner. With the support of FranCoach and franchise consultant Graham Chapman, Kimberly is now embracing the freedom and impact that come with owning her consulting practice.
Who Is Kimberly Hardy-Barnes?
Kimberly Hardy-Barnes spent over two decades as a business and finance operations leader at AARP, helping one of the nation’s largest nonprofit organizations serve millions. Her career was built on empowering teams, thinking creatively to solve big challenges, and simply “making it happen.”
When a new CEO brought sweeping changes to AARP in late 2024, Kimberly found herself unexpectedly laid off. While the transition was initially painful, it sparked a period of reflection—and ultimately, inspiration. Today, Kimberly is stepping into a new phase of life: working for herself, on her terms, doing meaningful work that truly lights her up.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kimberly is all about family. As a proud mother of adult children and a doting grandmother, she values the flexibility to be present for life’s big and small moments. She’s also deeply rooted in community service, preparing taxes for seniors for free through AARP’s Tax-Aide program.
Why Did Kimberly Make a Career Change?
Kimberly’s “why” has always been crystal clear—her family, her community, and her passion for connecting with people. While she thrived in her past career, the political side of working in a large organization often weighed her down.
Now, with her kids grown and more time to explore her passions, Kimberly was determined to find work that excites her daily. She wanted to continue giving back, build genuine relationships, and have the power to decide how she spends her days. Franchising turned out to be the perfect answer.
🎙 Franchising 101: Finding the Right Fit
At FranCoach, we believe that franchise ownership isn’t just about buying a business—it’s about building the life you want. That’s exactly what we explore every week on our Franchising 101 podcast, where we break down how to find your ideal franchise, avoid costly mistakes, and become your own boss with confidence.
Why Will Kimberly Make a Great Franchise Owner?
Her franchise coach, Graham Chapman, said Kimberly is more than ready for this next chapter.
“I had a blast working with Kim. While she was initially frustrated by a recent layoff, her perspective completely changed once she embraced the possibility—and now the REALITY—of being her own boss. She’s ready to take control of her future and make a difference as a Focal Point owner, and I can’t wait to see her CRUSH IT!”
Why Did Kimberly Choose Focal Point?
Given her background in coaching and financial operations, Focal Point was a natural fit. Kimberly has been informally guiding people on personal finances and life decisions for years. Now, through her Focal Point franchise, she’s taking that talent to the next level—empowering business owners and leaders to grow strategically and sustainably.
Just as importantly, this franchise model gives Kimberly the freedom she’s always wanted. She can set her own schedule, focus on the clients she’s most passionate about, and build a practice tailored to her strengths and interests.
A Smooth Journey Through the FranCoach Process
Kimberly’s success story highlights how impactful the FranCoach Discovery Process can be. She was amazed by the sheer range of franchise opportunities available to her—options she never would have uncovered on her own. By following the step-by-step FranCoach roadmap, Kimberly found a brand that not only matched her professional skills but also aligned with her mission to help others.
Congratulations from the FranCoach Team!
We couldn’t be more excited for Kimberly as she begins her new adventure with Focal Point. Her story is a powerful reminder that with the right guidance and an open mind, what starts as an unexpected career detour can become the most rewarding chapter yet.
About FranCoach
FranCoach is a national search firm dedicated to working with individuals who are interested in owning a franchise. We have partnered with over 600 of the top franchisors in the country, spanning nearly 70 industries.
Our goal with clients is to help them find the absolute best franchise for them to own. Our goal with our Franchising 101 podcast series is to help educate people on all aspects of franchise ownership.
Reach out to us to learn more about potentially becoming a franchise owner. There’s never any fee for our service, so why not take the first step today toward your better tomorrow?
