Thought Leaders
Our Thought Leaders are the voices behind True Connection’s insights and storytelling—dedicated to uncovering the hidden connections that shape our world. They are researchers, educators, writers, and explorers of ideas, bringing expertise from psychology, science, sustainability, history, philosophy, and mindfulness.
Tenley Hardin is an Associate Therapist (AMFT #130074), educator, and SEL (social-emotional learning) curriculum developer with a background in trauma-informed care, somatic therapy, and emotional intelligence. She holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and a Master of Arts in Teaching and English from Belmont University.
As an educator, Tenley co-authored the HiEQ curriculum, an SEL program used in LAPD junior cadet programs and virtual classrooms nationwide. She integrates somatic therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and psychodynamic approaches to help individuals reconnect with their inner world and build emotional resilience.
At True Connection, Tenley shares insights on psychology, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation, exploring how self-awareness shapes personal growth and well-being.
Nadine Nicole is an actor, advocate, and founder of True Connection, best known for her role as Clarissa Mao on The Expanse. She has studied neuroscience, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness, earning certifications in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Somatic Experiencing, Holistic Health & Nutrition, and The Fundamentals of Neuroscience.
Beyond acting, Nadine is the founder of Yari Designs, a fine jewelry brand supporting diversity and financial literacy programs for girls and women. She also serves as an Advisor to Space For Humanity, supporting transformative space experiences for purpose-driven leaders tackling humanity’s greatest challenges.
At True Connection, Nadine explores personal growth, resilience, and the science of interconnectedness, bridging research with lived experience to help others navigate healing and transformation with greater intention.
Alina has a background in psychology and a deep interest in understanding human behavior, needs, and relationships. With a career in HR and People Operations, she applies these insights to organizational systems, fostering workplace cultures that support both individual and collective well-being. Passionate about creating environments where people thrive, she integrates wellness initiatives into her work, helping employees embody sustainable practices that promote balance, fulfillment, and long-term success.
Aligning with True Connection’s mission, she strives to inspire mindful engagement with ourselves and the world we share, exploring how personal growth creates lasting impact in our relationships, communities, and beyond.
Alina has a background in psychology and a deep interest in understanding human behavior, needs, and relationships. With a career in HR and People Operations, she applies these insights to organizational systems, fostering workplace cultures that support both individual and collective well-being. Passionate about creating environments where people thrive, she integrates wellness initiatives into her work, helping employees embody sustainable practices that promote balance, fulfillment, and long-term success.
Aligning with True Connection’s mission, she strives to inspire mindful engagement with ourselves and the world we share, exploring how personal growth creates lasting impact in our relationships, communities, and beyond.
Alina has a background in psychology and a deep interest in understanding human behavior, needs, and relationships. With a career in HR and People Operations, she applies these insights to organizational systems, fostering workplace cultures that support both individual and collective well-being. Passionate about creating environments where people thrive, she integrates wellness initiatives into her work, helping employees embody sustainable practices that promote balance, fulfillment, and long-term success.
Aligning with True Connection’s mission, she strives to inspire mindful engagement with ourselves and the world we share, exploring how personal growth creates lasting impact in our relationships, communities, and beyond.
Alina has a background in psychology and a deep interest in understanding human behavior, needs, and relationships. With a career in HR and People Operations, she applies these insights to organizational systems, fostering workplace cultures that support both individual and collective well-being. Passionate about creating environments where people thrive, she integrates wellness initiatives into her work, helping employees embody sustainable practices that promote balance, fulfillment, and long-term success.
Aligning with True Connection’s mission, she strives to inspire mindful engagement with ourselves and the world we share, exploring how personal growth creates lasting impact in our relationships, communities, and beyond.
Alina has a background in psychology and a deep interest in understanding human behavior, needs, and relationships. With a career in HR and People Operations, she applies these insights to organizational systems, fostering workplace cultures that support both individual and collective well-being. Passionate about creating environments where people thrive, she integrates wellness initiatives into her work, helping employees embody sustainable practices that promote balance, fulfillment, and long-term success.
Aligning with True Connection’s mission, she strives to inspire mindful engagement with ourselves and the world we share, exploring how personal growth creates lasting impact in our relationships, communities, and beyond.