Meet the Original Maven: Holly Schroeder
Corporate Flight Attendant | Founder of Maven
We are thrilled to introduce Holly Schroeder, the heart and soul behind Maven.
After the resounding success of her first retreat, Elevate, Holly felt called to create something even more intentional—an experience designed specifically for Corporate Flight Attendants (CFAs). Her vision? A space where collaboration flows effortlessly, and personal growth feels not only possible but inevitable.
What struck her most at last year’s gathering were the honest moments—the vulnerability, the laughter, the real connection. She hadn’t expected it to be quite so powerful, yet it was no surprise given the incredible attendees. New friendships were forged not only among retreat participants, but also with speakers and sponsors. Witnessing how deeply the experience touched each person only fueled Holly’s dedication. She is more committed than ever to ensuring that everyone who walks into Maven feels seen, heard, and valued—not just for what they do, but for who they are.
Holly Schroeder stands out as a distinguished Lead CFA, known for her unwavering commitment to excellence and her impeccable grasp of true hospitality. At its core, the role of a CFA is the purest form of service—consistently going above and beyond to anticipate every need. This retreat is Holly’s heartfelt way of giving back to those who spend their careers giving so much of themselves.
Beyond her remarkable in-flight service, Holly is a steadfast champion of safety, prioritizing comprehensive training above all else. She’s a passionate advocate for meaningful industry change, especially in elevating the recognition CFAs deserve for their extensive training. Holly firmly believes CFAs are the front line of emergency response and never underestimates the critical importance of rigorous preparedness.
Holly’s dedication to her craft and her passion for creating exceptional experiences don’t stop when the plane lands. Maven Within is her way of offering a sacred space for her community to gather, grow, and become even better—together.
In Her Own Words
What does authentic leadership mean to you?
I think leadership, at its core, is about authenticity and heart. It's about sharing your values and vulnerabilities to create genuine connections. Imagine hosting a party where everyone feels welcome—where they can dance to their own beat while embracing the overall vibe. Truly authentic leaders cultivate an environment where honesty flourishes and everyone feels empowered to shine. That's the vision for Maven Within, so come ready to dance and be yourself!
How do you stay grounded in high-pressure environments?
After years of high-pressure situations, I’ve found that repeating positive affirmations helps prepare my brain and body to relax. Pre-flight jitters are common, so recognizing that feeling and calming your nervous system with deep breaths always helps. And don’t forget humor—don’t take yourself too seriously. I’ve reached a point where I tell myself, “What will be, will be,” and give myself grace.
A moment that redefined success and purpose:
Last year’s retreat sparked many meaningful conversations, but one connection truly stayed with me. A person going through a deeply traumatic time thanked me for truly seeing them. That moment was incredibly moving and solidified the profound impact of the retreat and why I wanted to do this in the first place. I realized I was helping people in a way I never imagined. This bond—deep and heartfelt—surpassed even the most elite moments I’ve had in my career. She’s someone I’ll be connected to for life, and I’m committed to fostering more moments like this in the future.
How do you protect your energy and boundaries?
Maintaining my well-being is a top priority. I’ve learned to honor my physical and emotional needs by doing things that bring me joy and making sure I’m properly nourished. In the past, I said yes to everything—but now I’m practicing setting boundaries. That means saying no to interactions, relationships, and commitments that don’t support my well-being. This shift has been huge, and I work on it daily. I also carve out intentional time for self-care—it’s essential for long-term success.
What excites you most about the Maven Within Retreat?
I poured my heart into curating every workshop and choosing every presenter. I can’t wait to witness the joy and impact this experience will bring—especially when attendees discover all the personalized touches created just for them.
When do you feel most like yourself?
I’m most at ease at home, after being on the road so often it is my calm space. There, I'm with my incredible and encouraging partner, who is my rock and biggest champion in this difficult life. He grounds me, and together with our amazing fur baby we enjoy our long "thinking walks" outside enjoying nature.
Why We Can’t Wait to Learn From Her
With over two decades of experience as a flight attendant, Holly is a true expert in her field. She’s poured her time, heart, and energy into creating this retreat specifically for Corporate Flight Attendants, a reflection of her passion to uplift and strengthen the CFA community.
Holly’s authenticity shines through every detail. Her dedication to curating a meaningful, intentional experience is evident—and her team is just as committed to delivering something unforgettable. We can’t wait to learn from her insights, connect through shared experiences, and grow alongside the community she’s so thoughtfully built.
