Max Klein

Max Klein may not have founded Freed, but he’s the Boss in Boots who’s carried it into a bold new chapter—without ever losing sight of where it came from. When Max purchased the company, he chose to keep the name Freed as a tribute to its original founder, Brian Freed—a decision rooted in respect, legacy, and a desire to build on something great.

Max has since become the face of the company—the guy customers remember, the leader teammates trust, and the one always thinking about what’s next. Around here, he’s been described as the long-lost twin of Kramer from Seinfeld—but with cowboy boots, the occasional cowboy hat, and a serious knack for business. He’s high energy, high vision, and always a few steps ahead.

As Boss in Boots, Max is constantly thinking about the big stuff: how to grow, how to lead, how to keep the culture strong, and how to better serve Freed’s customers. His peers in the Cedar Valley recognized that kind of leadership by naming him Entrepreneur of the Year—but Max will be the first to tell you that none of it matters without the right people.

“My favorite thing about Freed?” he says. “The peeps. I love this team. I love our customers. It’s that simple.”

Freed is more than a business to Max—it’s a chance to build something meaningful in a community that needs bold, grounded leadership. He’s chosen the Cedar Valley to raise his family, build his team, and invest in something bigger than himself. At home, Max is a husband to Kate and dad to four amazing kids. And though he’s full of life and always on the move, he’s actually an introvert who savors the quiet moments—especially those drives home when he can unwind in his truck and reset for the next day.

If there’s one thing Max wants people to know about Freed, it’s this:

“We good. We’re good at what we do—and proud of it.”