From Medical Sales to Men's Coaching: Sarah Maria's Unexpected Calling

How a Geneva coach discovered her gift for helping high-achieving men navigate midlife's hardest moments

For nearly twenty years, Sarah Maria built a rewarding career in medical sales, working alongside high-achieving men in some of healthcare's most demanding corners—pharmaceuticals, then oncology diagnostics. Throughout her career, she noticed that her male colleagues would often reach out to her during times of distress. She would always provide a listening ear and co-regulate with them. At the end of their phone conversations, they would exhale deeply, say thank you, and then mention that perhaps she should become a therapist. They said they felt better after talking to her. Sarah began to realize that perhaps she had a gift for making men feel comfortable and safe to express themselves. Safe to drop their armor.

Today, Sarah is the Founder and CEO of Apex Men's Coaching, where she works specifically with high-achieving men in their 40s and 50s navigating midlife's hardest moments—divorce, anxiety, fatherhood, infidelity, life transitions, grief, and the relationships that hold it all together. Men who are in this age group often go through challenging seasons, navigating the pressures of career, relationships, or major life changes and having a trusted place to process those challenges releases men so they can show up as the best version of themselves, both at home and in the workplace.

Sarah's path is grounded in real credentials. Sarah holds a bachelor's degree in education from Drake University and is a Certified Men's Coach. Sarah trained under respected names in the field, including Connor Beaton of ManTalks and licensed clinical professional counselors Duey Freeman and Michael Gay. Her coaching method blends attachment theory and somatic work with practical tools, helping men understand not just what they're struggling with, but why—and how to move forward.

Sessions take place by Zoom or in person at 25N Coworking Space in Geneva, where Sarah has a private office. She also offers a complimentary one on one consultation call for anyone considering whether coaching is the right fit. Testimonials from past clients are also available on her website.

Growing Apex Men's Coaching hasn't been without its challenges. Early momentum came after Sarah presented to the Geneva Alliance of Businessmen, and she's since been invited to speak with the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce and 25N Coworking's members.

Outside of coaching, Sarah has spent forty years as a competitive golfer, though a fall on black ice this past winter has kept her off the course while she recovers.

Life's greatest responsibilities shouldn't have to be carried alone. Through Apex Men's Coaching, Sarah helps high achieving men navigate life's transitions with honesty, resilience, and purpose—because seeking support isn't about weakness; it's about becoming the best leader, husband, father, and man they can be.

Check out what Apex Men's Coaching has to offer at www.apexmenscoaching.com, 331-213-9672, or @apex_mens_coaching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Sarah Maria?

Sarah Maria is the Founder and CEO of Apex Men's Coaching in Geneva, IL, a Certified Men's Coach who spent nearly 20 years in medical sales before founding her coaching practice.

Who does Apex Men's Coaching work with?

High-achieving men in their 40s and 50s navigating midlife challenges including divorce, anxiety, fatherhood, infidelity, life transitions, and grief.

Where are Apex Men's Coaching sessions held?

By Zoom or in person at 25N Coworking Space in Geneva, IL.

What is Sarah Maria's coaching background?

A bachelor's degree in education from Drake University and certification as a Men's Coach, trained under Connor Beaton of ManTalks and licensed clinical professional counselors Duey Freeman and Michael Gay.

How can I contact Apex Men's Coaching?

Visit www.apexmenscoaching.com, call 331-213-9672, or follow @apex_mens_coaching.

Written by Jennifer for livingwellwithjennifer.com — spotlighting local Fox Valley businesses and the people behind them. Know a business with a story worth telling? Contact Jennifer at Jennifer.Abbatacola@N2co.com