Who is Maven?

You are Maven. I am Maven. We are Maven.

Maven Executive Coaching was born from the need to embrace all experiences and leadership styles at the executive table. It was born from an experience where I was told that I am not a professional if I wasn’t thinking about my work in the evening while at home with my family. Whoa?! What?! Let that sink in for a moment. I’m in a room with all male colleagues whom I’d just met in a learning environment where I’m living away from my family during the week for ten months in an effort to progress my career. That isn’t enough dedication apparently because we’re all expected to make that commitment in the name of professional development and career growth. We’re talking about leadership and I’m squarely told by a colleague that if I’m focused on my family after work hours, I am not a dedicated leader.

Hmmm. I’m sitting in a room feeling out new colleagues and don’t know their stories or their motivations and I’m debating how I respond to this. I’m the lone woman in the room, something I’ve increasingly gotten used to throughout my career. If I push back, will I be perceived as “the typical woman” and reduce my credibility? If I stay quiet, will I let this misconception continue to be accepted?

This is the exact scenario I want to help women leaders navigate with intention and confidence. I want them to know that they can be a successful and respected leader by leaning into their own style. We all have an exceptional story that brings varied perspectives to every problem-solving table - this is where the magic happens. Group-think doesn’t create transformation. It’s challenging the norms and accepting opposing views that creates incredible opportunities.

It all begins with understanding you are a maven. You bring value to your work. You bring an experience that no one else has. You create change.