It is so nice to meet you!
I am Melanie Sanford—a mother of two inspiring young adults, a co-creator of a profound life partnership, and a lover of humans and solitude in equal measure. I’m deeply connected to feelings, words, nature, urban life, winter, dogs, music, art, and photography.
My work is shaped by early lived experiences that revealed the complexities of harm, resilience, and the unintended impact of systems designed to help. Those experiences cultivated a deep attentiveness to what is often unspoken, and a capacity to hold space with steadiness, care, and respect for the whole human.
Also…
I am a rehabilitated “corpo,” with a background in high-level organizational development and executive advisory roles. Since launching my coaching practice, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with organizations including Fidelity, The Boston Athletic Association, Glen Urquhart School, iFactory, the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, Nucleus Research, Just Transition Fund, the MBTA, and NourishRX.
Guided by curiosity, intuition, and a clear-eyed awareness of how systems can feel chaotic—and at times harmful—I pursued intensive training through Leadership that Works, earning an International Coaching Federation–accredited certification. Drawn to a more human-centered approach, I have since integrated trauma-informed coaching and anti-oppression frameworks into my practice.
Since 2019, I’ve been fully dedicated to coaching individuals through both planned and unexpected transitions, creating space for transformation while fostering ease and self-trust. I thrive in partnership with people who are openly evolving—grounded in vision and purpose, and seeking to communicate with greater clarity and intention. At its core, my work supports a shift toward a calmer, more empowered way of being.
Alongside my individual coaching practice, I draw on my organizational consulting background to engage in strategic planning, board development, and values-based leadership work—partnering exclusively with human-centered groups committed to meaningful impact, equity, and thoughtful leadership.