In a move set to shake up leadership development, Maximum Q, a fresh business platform founded by leadership coach Lisa Trapani Shumate, officially went live on June 2, 2025. It promises practical tools and frameworks for professionals eager to build stronger leadership skills amid today’s fast-paced workplace shifts.
The platform is tailored for all leaders — whether just starting out or seasoned pros — and focuses on growing confidence, self-awareness, and clarity in how leaders inspire teams and navigate change.
Unlocking Leadership Beyond IQ and EQ
Lisa Trapani Shumate knows a thing or two about leadership. With years as a media executive, author, and ICF Certified Coach, she’s crafted a platform that moves past the usual leadership clichés. “It’s about how you lead through change, with clarity and character,” Shumate said.
And that’s exactly what Maximum Q offers — not just theory, but real-world, actionable skills that leaders can apply right away.
The core of Maximum Q’s approach is “The Five Q’s,” a framework Shumate developed to break down what really makes leaders tick and teams thrive:
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OQ (Outlook): It’s about cultivating optimism and reframing challenges. Leaders learn to stay steady when the ground shifts beneath them.
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YQ (You): Deep self-awareness. This dives into values and mindset to help leaders lead authentically.
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SQ (Social): Building relationships and empathy. Managing conflict with grace and creating trust within teams.
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PQ (Presence): Executive presence that reflects all the above in action. It’s the way leaders carry themselves — making memorable, respected impressions.
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CQ (Career): Intentional growth through mentorship, feedback, and continuous learning.
Each “Q” is a pillar of leadership that, combined, forms a powerhouse approach for anyone looking to up their leadership game.
Leadership Tested Under Pressure
Maximum Q’s name isn’t just catchy — it’s inspired by aerospace engineering. In rocket science, “Maximum Q” is the moment when a rocket faces the highest dynamic pressure, the toughest test before it breaks free into space.
Shumate sees this as a perfect metaphor for leadership. “Leaders grow stronger under pressure,” she explains. “Our platform is about pushing through those tough spots — the pressure points — and coming out better on the other side.”
Variety in Learning Experiences
What really sets Maximum Q apart is its blend of learning methods. The platform offers:
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Self-paced online courses for those who like to learn on their own schedule
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Live virtual bootcamps that foster community and real-time interaction
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Personalized executive coaching that tailors advice to individual challenges
Plus, monthly free masterclasses make it accessible for anyone curious about leveling up their leadership skills without a big upfront cost.
Lisa Trapani Shumate’s background in media management and board service means the content is grounded in practical experience — not just academic theory. This real-world angle makes the lessons relatable and immediately useful.
Who Stands to Gain?
Honestly, the platform seems designed for anyone serious about leading well in today’s fast-moving environments. Emerging leaders struggling to find their voice, mid-career professionals wanting to polish their presence, or executives aiming to build stronger teams — all can benefit from Maximum Q’s offerings.
The Five Q’s framework also taps into what leadership experts are saying: emotional intelligence isn’t the full story anymore. Leaders need optimism, strong values, social skills, and a clear sense of career direction, all wrapped up in how they show up every day.
A Quick Look at The Five Q’s Framework
| Q Code | Focus Area | Key Leadership Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| OQ | Outlook | Optimism & Resilience | Leading through uncertainty |
| YQ | You | Self-awareness & Values | Authentic leadership |
| SQ | Social | Relationship building & Empathy | Trust & Team cohesion |
| PQ | Presence | Executive presence & communication | Influence & respect |
| CQ | Career | Mentorship & Growth | Long-term success |
Mixing fresh perspectives, practical skill-building, and supportive coaching, Maximum Q hopes to help leaders not just survive but thrive in a changing world.
The platform’s launch comes at a time when leadership feels more complicated than ever. Companies face shifting markets, remote work challenges, and cultural changes. Tools that help leaders lead with heart and smarts might be just what many professionals have been waiting for.
