Meet Cortina Lockhart | Business & Nonprofit Compliance Advisor / Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cortina Lockhart and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cortina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I initially started as a research firm, providing business feasibility studies and creating business plans for clients. Over time, I recognized a growing need for accurate guidance in compliance and regulatory reporting. Many businesses were struggling due to being improperly set up, missing key filings, or operating out of compliance with state regulations.

This realization inspired me to evolve my services and establish Hosch Group LLC as a trusted partner for for-profits and nonprofits alike. As a Business & Nonprofit Compliance Advisor, I focus on delivering comprehensive support, including compliance and regulatory reporting, nonprofit reinstatement and filings, bookkeeping and financial management, and individual and business tax advisory.

Our mission is to ‘build better businesses’ by taking the weight of compliance and financial responsibilities off our clients’ shoulders. We work with a diverse range of clients, including owner-operator trucking businesses, nonprofits, musicians, and many others, ensuring they can focus on their passions and operations while we handle the rest

What should our readers know about your business?
Hosch Group LLC has grown into a trusted partner for businesses and nonprofits, offering services like compliance and regulatory reporting, nonprofit reinstatement and filings, bookkeeping and financial management, and individual and business tax advisory. While we’re still growing, we’ve built a solid foundation of trust and reliability. What sets us apart is our mission to ‘build better businesses.’ We take pride in simplifying complex processes and providing hands-on support to ensure our clients are always in compliance, whether at the federal, state, or local levels.

It hasn’t been an easy journey—building a brand takes hard work, consistency, and a willingness to adapt. Marketing has been one of our biggest challenges, especially navigating the ever-changing world of social media. But we’ve found success through word of mouth and by delivering exceptional service to every client. Each satisfied customer becomes a testament to our commitment and fuels our growth.

One of my proudest achievements has been writing my first book, Entrepreneur’s Edge: Proven Tips for Successful Start-Ups, and now preparing to release another. Writing a book was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done—it challenged me to distill years of knowledge and experience into something actionable and relatable. But it also solidified my voice and presence in the business world. Equally, I am proud of the many nonprofits we have reinstated, helping them regain their footing and continue their missions. Each reinstatement represents not just a win for compliance, but a renewed opportunity for organizations to make a difference in their communities.

Balancing a 9-5 career with entrepreneurship was another challenge I faced in the beginning. It took a lot of discipline and determination to juggle both responsibilities, but maintaining an organized schedule made it possible. I’ve learned that prioritizing time for what matters most and staying focused on the bigger picture are key to making it all work.

Through this journey, I’ve learned some valuable lessons. Success takes time, patience, and resilience. You have to be willing to try new things, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, and celebrate every win, no matter how small. My story and my brand reflect that spirit. I want the world to know that Hosch Group LLC is about more than just services—it’s about empowering our clients to focus on what they love, knowing that we’re here to handle the complexities of compliance and finances.

My goal is to continue growing, evolving, and helping others succeed while staying true to our core values of integrity and excellence.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a foodie and wine enthusiast, I love creating unique experiences around great food, wine, and atmosphere. Fun fact: I used to write wine reviews for a small online publication years ago, so visiting wineries is always a highlight for me. If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d start with a tour of some of Tennessee’s amazing wineries. Places like Arrington Vineyards or Amber Falls Winery would definitely be on the list—we’d enjoy wine tastings, beautiful views, and live music if it’s the right time of year.

Brunch is non-negotiable for me, so I’d plan a few outings to explore some of the best brunch spots in Nashville. Some of my favorites are Urban Grub for its elevated comfort food, Noir Kitchen & Cocktails for its chic and lively atmosphere, and The Hampton Social for a stylish vibe and delicious cocktails.

I’m a huge hot chicken fan, so I’d have to take them to Prince’s Hot Chicken or 400 Degrees for a true taste of Nashville. Another spot for me is J. Alexander’s—that’s my go-to for variety and consistently great meals. But nothing beats a good steak, and Nashville has so many fantastic steakhouses to choose from that it’s hard to pick just one.

It will be a week of delicious food, great wine, and memorable moments filled with all the best Tennessee has to offer.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I pull my inspiration from so many places. There are countless people doing incredible work every day who inspire me to keep going. However, my biggest inspiration has always been my mother, Essie Hosch. She instilled in me the belief that success is only limited by your mindset. I grew up truly believing I could accomplish anything I put my mind to. She also taught me that integrity is the most important thing you can have. When someone speaks your name, it should be associated with honesty, trustworthiness, and respect.

I also have to credit my two children, who are my absolute best motivators. They are both incredibly smart and resilient, tackling anything they set their minds to with determination. Watching them grow and achieve their goals inspires me to push myself even further.

Additionally, I am grateful for my husband, many friends, peers, and clients who have poured into my journey, as well as the lessons I’ve learned from the challenges I’ve faced. Each of these elements has played a role in shaping the person I am today and the work I strive to do every day.

Website: https://www.hoschgroup.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hosch_group_llc/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hoschgroupllc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHoschGroup/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoschGroupLLC

Other: YouTube channel coming soon. Active link is above.