Design your life for you.

 I’m here to empower you with insights, tools, and strategies to embark on this transformative path toward a brighter future. So, let’s take that pivotal first step together. Your journey to thriving begins right here, right now.

Your Executive Coach

I’m Alison Smith, founder of The Thrive Designer, and I partner with accomplished women who are leading at a high level and carrying significant responsibility—often while quietly craving more clarity, steadiness, and sustainability.

For nearly a decade, I’ve worked with high-achieving leaders who are deeply capable, deeply committed, and ready for leadership that feels as strong on the inside as it looks on the outside. They are not trying to do less. They want to lead with more ease, confidence, and alignment.

My work as an Executive Coach is grounded in strengthening your internal systems so you can make decisions, navigate pressure, and lead with presence rather than depletion. Through small, intentional shifts, we create sustainable success that actually supports the life you want.

If you are ready for success that feels grounded, powerful, and aligned—you’re in the right place.

Learn More

  • What will your story be?

    “Working with Alison has been a dynamic process of self-discovery, almost akin to developing and flexing an entirely new muscle around my own self-awareness, behaviors, and values. It’s been eye-opening to look back and see the progress we’ve made together over the past four months. Alison is a gem of a coach — thoughtful, inquisitive, creative, collaborative, and deeply understanding. Her sensitivity and kindness, above all else, make our conversations a safe space to be vulnerable and to truly grow.”

    Sarah

  • What will your story be?

    “Confused, exhausted, and stagnant…these words best describe my emotional state as well as what pushed me to find help! Alison and her approach to coaching has made such a tremendous impact on my life, both professionally and personally. Alison is flexible and adapts quickly to the needs of her client at a moments notice. She is my “safe place”, and I so grateful to walk this walk with her!”

    Kenda

  • What will your story be?

    “Alison is like a best friend and a wizard. She’s helped me navigate a career transition, job changes, professional growth, and a move into management in my new field in a way that has been empowering, confidence building, challenging, and so fruitful. Our conversations seamlessly navigate through professional and personal topics like family, friendship, and marriage. She knows me as a whole person and can spot patterns in how I approach my home life and work life in a way that has helped me better understand myself and be the best version of me. I highly recommend working with her!”

    Rebecca

  • What will your story be?

    “I originally reached out to Alison for help thinking through my next career move—moving from graduate school into the professional world as a late 30-something. What I’ve ended up working with her on over the past year has been so much more. Her guidance and insightful prompts have allowed me to clarify my priorities and better understand the roadblocks I often don’t see. Alison has positively impacted how I see myself and my self-worth, as well as my ability to tackle whatever challenges or opportunities come next. She is thoughtful and encouraging and a joy to work with.”

    Piper

  • What will your story be?

    “Working with Alison has been incredibly helpful for me across my professional and personal life. She is a valuable resource and trusted sounding board, especially as I’ve navigated significant turbulence on the work front, from leading a team to managing investors to (finally) setting work/life boundaries. I always come out of our conversations with a sense of clarity and clear path forward that has enabled me to be a better teammate and partner. “

    Jen