Member Spotlight - September 2026 - MK Larsen

Member Spotlight

The Power of Us: Our Stories

 

Meet MK Larsen, PCC

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am an executive coach and strategic presence specialist based in New Jersey. My coaching focuses on executive and leadership presence, narrative alignment, and high-stakes communication for technical, clinical, and corporate leaders. Blending my deep business acumen with professional theater arts, I believe that everyone has a powerful voice worth hearing. I help leaders transform unconscious habits into intentional, commanding choices that move audiences to action. I also love to design interactive and creative workshops.

What sparked your interest in becoming a coach?

I hired a coach before becoming certified after realizing she possessed a clarity I hadn't yet tapped into.Though I’ve always been independent and capable of finding my own path, coaching helped me bridge the gap between effort and true presence. Experiencing that breakthrough firsthand proved to me that coaching is the ultimate catalyst for reclaiming your strength and helping others do the same. AND thank you Maureen Martin who was an important person when I made my decision to go to LCOP. Her conversations with me were so valuable.

What matters most to you about the people you serve or the work you do?

What matters most is witnessing the joy, pride, and strength when a leader realizes they have truly moved an audience. I do this work because leadership presence isn't just about public speaking— it's about connection. When leaders replace old habits with intentional presence and step into their conviction, they don't just advance their careers; they improve the lives of everyone they lead.

What's a recent win, milestone, or collaboration you'd like us to celebrate with you?

No matter what I achieve, my two children are the most important thing for me to celebrate. Making a kinder world for them to flourish is my number one goal. Professionally, I’m deeply proud of my work coaching over 150 speakers for TEDx. I have a natural knack for unearthing a person's authentic story and helping them express it clearly, empowering them to spread their ideas and move people to action.

What's one lesson, quote, or coaching philosophy that continues to guide you?

"We do not just endure the drama; we write a better second act." — Clifford Odets. Enduring drama is passive, but rewriting your story is possible when you examine old habits and make intentional choices. When you're stuck in first-act patterns, a coach provides the catalyst to take the pen back. 

What is one opportunity, connection, or experience you’re hoping for through the ICF New Jersey community.

We have an awesome community, how could I ask for more? I hope to continue connecting with fellow coaches, sharing creative workshop strategies, and collaborating with leaders who care deeply about bringing out the authentic, grounded presence in everyone they coach.

What does being a part of ICF New Jersey mean to you?

Early in my ICF New Jersey career, I was fortunate to connect with Kathleen Cashman Walter, Marian Janes, and Debbie Godfrey. These phenomenal women exemplify what it truly means to walk the walk of coaching. They are true pillars of our community, and I am deeply grateful to know them.

Share something we didn’t ask that you want our community to know about you?

Coming from a huge family, comedy is in my DNA. I love making people laugh until their sides hurt, especially in coaching where humor is often the secret ingredient. When laughter unlocks creativity in a room, I feel completely aligned with my purpose. Plus, deep down, I still hold out hope for a role on a classic sitcom!

MK is located in New Jersey, New York and beyond as well as in the virtual space. Interested in connecting with Coach MK and learning more about her story? Reach out on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mkl11 and her website: https://www.mklarsencommunications.com

Let’s engage, celebrate, and get involved in shaping our chapter’s future. – ICF New Jersey Community Networking