Excellence is built one decision at a time

"My role at The Harbor Financial Group encompasses leadership, operations, and account management. Over the past year, I've led one of the most significant initiatives in our company's history, guiding the agency through its first full rebrand in more than 30 years. I cast the vision, defined our core values, and helped shape the story that will carry us into our next chapter. This rebrand reflects the heart and people first spirit that has always defined our firm.

What I'm most proud of, however, is my daily work as an advisor, advocate, and true partner to small and mid sized businesses. Whether I'm guiding a recent graduate through their first health insurance decision or helping a new mom negotiate hospital bills, the most meaningful part of my work is walking alongside my clients as they navigate their health care needs.

One of my guiding principles comes from my favorite college professor, who often said, "Excellence is a game of inches." To me, the difference between good and exceptional lies in delivering just a little more clarity, value, and excellence than what is expected or asked."

Carmen Freeman, Vice President of Sales (TX Market), Oxbridge Health

"I have spent the past 20 years building my career in the health care industry, and today I serve as Vice President of Sales for Oxbridge Health, where I lead the company's strategic growth across the Texas market. In this role, I focus on advancing our Episodic Care model, helping transform how employers purchase and utilize health care. My work centers on creating a more consumer-centric experience that prioritizes transparency, predictability, and meaningful outcomes for the employers and employees we serve.

I am passionate about challenging traditional approaches to health care delivery and offering solutions that bring clarity and confidence back to the buying process. Whether I am collaborating with brokers, employers, or strategic partners, my goal is always to simplify complexity and deliver measurable value.

Beyond my professional role, I am honored to serve as President of the NABIP Dallas Chapter. I lead a dedicated board of 12 and represent a dynamic network of more than 260 local business professionals committed to elevating our industry and strengthening our community."

As we close out Pancake Month and celebrate the momentum we have built together, I am reminded that impact rarely happens by accident. Sometimes it starts with something as simple as pancakes and turns into real support for Veterans and their families. Sometimes it starts with one woman deciding to lead a little differently.

Do you know a woman in our industry who is driving change, lifting others, or quietly raising the standard? The ones reshaping strategy, mentoring the next generation, advocating for clients, or simply showing up every single day with integrity and heart. These are the leaders who move our industry forward. Not always loudly, but always intentionally.

I am always looking to spotlight women like this in our Wonder Women series. If someone comes to mind, I would love to hear her story. Reach out anytime at scombs@combsandc.com and for the love of God, if you haven't had a pancake yet, the time has come!