Cortne' Lee Smith
Cortne’ Lee Smith is a Workplace & Youth Grief Trainer and Ministry Marketplace leader who helps organizations, schools, and families navigate loss with clarity, compassion, and structure.
As the founder of 1 Million Hearts Reconnected, she serves as a Youth Grief Guide—walking young people through emotions so they can heal, grow, and build resilience while also equipping workplaces with practical tools for emotional wellness and sustainable culture care.
Through her blog community, trainings, and workshops, Cortne’ bridges faith, emotional health, and professional development—creating spaces where hearts reconnect and people thrive—beyond loss.
• Goal Success Life Coach
• Happiness Life Coach
• Clark Atlanta University
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a profound personal transformation that reshaped both my life and my work. After the loss of my first husband and later remarrying a widower, I felt called to redirect my 21-year career in corporate training toward grief wellness, supporting both adults and youth through honest, heart-centered education. My work is grounded in sincere care, faith, and the belief that grief holds growth when we are willing to move through it—principles I carry into every session, always with prayer before and after.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple but essential: heal yourself first. When you lead from a grounded, open heart, your work becomes impactful and authentic—without that, there’s a risk of unintentionally harming others. Be intentional about the legacy you want to leave, and let that guide how you show up and serve.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are connection, nurturing, and presence. Cooking allows me to care for others in a tangible, meaningful way, while spending time with my grandchildren reminds me of the importance of patience, joy, and legacy—values that ground me and shape how I show up in everything I do.
