Shannon Freeman Maynes is a catalyst for growth, purpose, and lasting impact.

With over 20+ years of experience across Fortune 500 companies and educational institutions, Shannon empowers leaders, teams, and individuals to unlock their potential and achieve meaningful transformation. Her expertise in Organization Development and Change Management—combined with a deeply human, strengths-based approach—helps clients enhance communication, decision-making, and relationships while driving cultural and performance shifts.

Shannon’s work spans strategy, customer experience, marketing, HR, IT, and beyond—giving her a 360° view of organizational systems and the insight to lead change from the inside out. Whether coaching C-suite executives or guiding teams through complex challenges, Shannon is known for her clarity, compassion, and the measurable results she helps create.

Clients don’t just move forward—they rise.

Shannon's Personal Journey

Advocate. Leader. Champion for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

With over 20 years of DE&I advocacy, Shannon’s passion for inclusion comes from a deeply personal place. As the mother of two adult sons, Shannon was confronted with the words no parent ever wants to hear: "There is no hope for your child." When her youngest son was born with a rare physical condition, physicians told her that his future was uncertain. Instead of accepting this defeat, Shannon transformed that pain into purpose.

In a world where many were resigned to limits, Shannon refused to let her son’s condition define his potential. At just three years old, she enrolled him in preschool, determined to expose him to a community that had never encountered someone in a wheelchair. This decision was just the beginning of a journey that not only reshaped her own beliefs but also ignited a movement for inclusion, diversity, and equity.

In 2006, driven by her personal experiences and unwavering belief in the power of the human spirit, Shannon founded her own DE&I nonprofit organization. She worked to open minds and hearts, helping children, educators, and families understand the value of inclusivity. This initiative inspired a sweeping change across communities in Iowa, and its impact continues to ripple outward, breaking down barriers of bias and adversity.

Her son, now a student and para-athlete at the University of Illinois, continues to defy expectations, ranking among the world’s top wheelchair racers. His resilience is a testament to the power of inclusion—and a source of pride for Shannon as she continues to lead by example.

Shannon’s leadership style is grounded in the lessons she’s learned through her personal journey: resilience, adaptability, and a relentless drive to create meaningful change. Her Midwest sensibility and compassionate approach have made her an invaluable coach and consultant, helping individuals and organizations embrace DE&I as a path to true growth.

As the founder of Aspire Higher, Shannon is committed to helping you unlock your full potential—whether as an individual or as an organization. She’s here to listen, understand your challenges, and guide you in creating a future where you, your team, and your community can thrive. Together, we’ll inspire you to Aspire Higher Now!

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As the founder of Aspire Higher, I’m eager to connect with you, hear your challenges, and explore your dreams. With expert coaching, organizational development, and change management consulting, I’ll equip you with the strategies and support needed to unlock your full potential—whether as an individual or an organization. Together, we’ll inspire meaningful change and motivate those around you to Aspire Higher Now! 

Shannon Freeman Maynes

Shannon@aspirehighernow.com