Community Highlights: Meet Jennifer Maxson of Jennifer Maxson & Associates

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Maxson

Hi Jennifer, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I actually began in PR and marketing after college. Life has a funny way of leading you down unexpected paths though. I joined a leadership coaching firm handling their marketing and communications, and something just clicked. I found myself drawn more and more into the coaching side, starting to facilitate programs and work directly with clients. It felt natural. I knew I’d found my calling.
I’ll never forget my first solo program. I was working with an automotive industry team on “Facilitating Effective Meetings,” and seeing their faces light up as new concepts clicked for them – that feeling was indescribable. Walking away from that experience, I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my career. I wanted to make that kind of difference for people.
For 12 years, I led our business unit after we were acquired by a larger organization. After 21 years of working for others, I knew in my heart it was time to create something of my own. Starting Jennifer Maxson & Associates was terrifying and exciting all at once – probably the hardest decision I’ve ever made. But it allowed me to focus my energy where my passion truly lies: helping others become their best selves as leaders.
Today, what brings me the most joy is hearing from clients that we’ve changed the trajectory of their careers. We pour our hearts into really understanding each client’s business and needs. It’s not just about coaching – it’s about creating genuine connections and fostering an environment of kindness and growth. That’s what my career means to me.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like most entrepreneurial journeys, mine had its share of challenges. The biggest leap was leaving my corporate role of 14 years to start my own business. It wasn’t just about taking a professional risk – it was a decision that would impact my team and family. I still remember the moment it hit me that I was truly designing my own future now, and that came with both excitement and uncertainty.
Being an empathetic leader has its own challenges too. I’ve had to learn to balance being supportive while not taking on everyone else’s problems. It’s important to understand what you can control or influence, and what you need to let go. I’ve found having a trusted mentor or leadership coach is crucial – they help me gain clarity when I’m too close to a situation.
A key challenge has been finding the right balance between working on and in the business. Like many business owners and leaders, I’ve had to learn to divide my attention between the strategic vision that drives our future and the daily operational tasks that keep us moving forward. While it’s important to maintain focus on long-term goals, effectively managing day-to-day activities is equally crucial for sustainable success.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Jennifer Maxson & Associates ?
As the President of Jennifer Maxson & Associates, I lead a leadership development firm that specializes in helping leaders at all levels find their authentic voice and maximize their impact. Since 2017, we’ve been partnering with organizations across Michigan and beyond to develop confident, capable leaders who can effectively engage their teams and drive results.
Our expertise lies in creating customized leadership development programs that combine one-on-one executive coaching, interactive group workshops, and practical applications. We’re known for our Flagship programs: Be Bright. Be Brief. Be Gone.™, Speak Up & Be Effective ™, and The Exceptional Leader ™, which has helped hundreds of current and emerging leaders build essential communication and leadership skills.
What sets us apart is our highly personalized approach. We believe that effective leadership isn’t about following a rigid formula – it’s about helping each individual discover and leverage their unique strengths while addressing their specific challenges. Our team takes the time to truly understand each client’s context, culture, and goals before designing solutions that will create lasting impact.
I’m particularly proud of how we’ve helped transform both individual careers and entire organizational cultures. Our clients often tell us that our programs have not only improved their professional effectiveness but have also positively impacted their personal lives. We’ve maintained long-term partnerships with many of West Michigan’s leading organizations, which speaks to the sustainable value we create.
We offer everything from individual coaching sessions to comprehensive leadership programs. Our approach is practical, results-oriented, and focused on creating real behavioral change that sticks.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my most cherished childhood memories is from my early horse-riding days. Every Saturday morning, I’d wake up before the sun, excited to head to the stables. There was something magical about those quiet mornings – the crisp air and the peaceful atmosphere. I’d clean stalls to earn riding time and money for lessons, but it never felt like work. I was surrounded by other young women doing the same thing, all of us sharing this passion for horses and riding. We formed this wonderful community, working side by side and sharing stories and dreams. Those mornings taught me so much about responsibility, the value of hard work, and the joy of pursuing something you love. Looking back, it wasn’t just about the riding – it was about finding my first real sense of belonging and purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jennifermaxsonassociates.com/