Coaching Groups San Francisco

An Authentic, Trusting & Powerful Men's Circle

Many of us arrive at MDI looking for something. At this point in our lives we have had several challenges. Some that have made us better, some that have rocked the foundation of everything we know and experience in our daily lives. We have felt isolated, alone, burdened, broken even. I was unsure that anything outside of me could hold solutions, or that it was possible for me to learn new ways of being that would connect me with other men-that I could find a place where I could develop into mature masculinity to be able to not only solve some of my problems, but learn how to lead teams of men. This begs a question: How is the world better off with Mature Masculine Leadership, and what is in it for me? Here are a few answers. If your interest is peaked, consider reaching out to us, claim your future... The world is significantly better off with **Mature Masculine Leaders** because such leadership brings a balanced, grounded, and principled approach to power, responsibility, and service. Here's how this benefits society: Mature masculine leaders typically embody **emotional regulation, self-mastery, and integrity**. This creates more stable governments, organizations, and families. These leaders don’t react impulsively or let ego drive decisions—they respond with clarity, long-term thinking, and accountability. *They become anchors in chaos.* The benefit to the world is **transformational**. Mature masculine leaders don't just govern—they **mentor, stabilize, and serve**. Their presence often leads to safer societies, stronger institutions, healthier families, and more cohesive communities. When men lead from maturity, not insecurity or domination, **everyone—regardless of gender—thrives.** Mentor Discover Inspire (MDI) is an international men's organization. You can also [visit our website ](https://www.mentordiscoverinspire.org/) to find out more about us. There is a form there which can help find an MDI Team in your area. If you fill out the form we will get back to you about starting the process of joining an MDI Team.

Doubles Beach Volleyball - (Saturday @10am)

What is Uniquely Human In The Age Of AI?

ZOOM event. The link will be sent on the day of the event. Please sign-in into your zoom account while joining the meeting for extra layer of authentication. =================================================== Artificial intelligence is getting remarkably good at things that once defined expert work. It can analyze enormous amounts of data, generate thoughtful drafts, surface patterns, and even propose solutions that might have taken teams weeks to uncover. So, a natural question is emerging inside organizations everywhere. ***If AI can do so much of the analytical and generative work, what remains uniquely human?*** In this interactive session, leadership advisor and coach Paul Barrett explores the capabilities that still sit firmly in human hands. Drawing on insights from thinkers like Daniel Kahneman, Oscar Trimboli, Amy Edmondson, Marshall Goldsmith, and Brené Brown, participants will explore four deeply human leadership capacities that become even more important in an AI assisted world: meaning, judgment, trust, and care. Through stories, reflection, and conversation, this session examines how leaders: \- make sense of information beyond the data\, \- take responsibility for difficult decisions\, \- respond to tension in ways that build trust\, \- create environments where people feel safe Because the future of leadership may not be about competing with intelligent machines. It may be about remembering what only humans can do. And why, even in the age of AI, at the core of it is still people. **Speaker BIO:** [Paul Barrett](www.linkedin.com/in/paul-barrett-icf-pcc) is a leadership advisor, executive coach, and founder of *Everyday Wiser*, and leads a weekly learning series that explores the human side of leadership through practical reflection and conversation. With more than thirty years of experience across leadership, coaching, and organizational transformation, he works with leaders and teams to navigate complexity, strengthen collaboration, and make better decisions under pressure. His work centers on a simple belief that guides much of his writing and speaking: at the core of it is people. [EverydayWiser.com](https://www.everydaywiser.com/)

4v4s Intermediate-Advance Beach Volleyball (Saturday @11:00am)

When Speed Isn't Enough: Strategy for Product Leaders

***Special Thanks*** *to our generous **Sponsor**:* * **[Productboard](https://www.productboard.com/product/spark/)**: Turn customer insights into strategic clarity and ship what matters most with **[Spark](https://www.productboard.com/product/spark/)**, Productboard's new agentic platform. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀─────────────────────── AI is making software **faster and easier to build than ever**. But the companies pulling ahead aren't the ones adding chatbots - they're rethinking their business models entirely. Abundance reshapes product work more than scarcity ever did. Intercom moved to outcome-based pricing and grew $100M+ in ARR. Kive scrapped its entire product category and rebuilt around generative AI. Both succeeded at the strategy layer, not the feature layer. When teams can execute faster than ever, **strategic clarity is what separates velocity from wasted motion**. This session is for product leaders ready to stop asking "where do we add AI?" and start asking "which problems are worth solving now?" **Key Takeaways** 1. Why lower-cost software creates more demand — not less work 2. How to apply AI at the strategy level, not just the backlog 3. How to recognize when AI changes your business model — not just your tools 4. Techniques for maintaining strategic clarity when execution outpaces direction ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀─────────────────────── **Schedule** 6:00-6:30 PM — Doors, Food, Drinks, & Networking 6:30-6:45 PM — 15-minute lightning talk on **Spark**, **Productboard's** agentic platform, that takes product managers from customer insight to delivery-ready spec faster than ever, including a live walkthrough. 6:30-6:50 PM — ProductTank and Martin Eriksson Introduction 6:50-7:35 PM — Martin Eriksson Presentation 7:35-8:00 PM — Q&A 8:00-8:30 PM — Networking & **Spark** demos

The Original Circling® Approach and Authentic Relating - IN BERKELEY!

Come Join - Our new IN-PERSON Event in Berkeley! **NOTE: This page is for information only.** **Please Ignore the Meetup "Not Open" Button.** **To REGISTER, go here...** [https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute](https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute) Authentic Relating and the “Original Circling® Approach” Be seen, heard, "gotten" & accepted and learn to do the same Do you crave: -More fulfilling relationships? -Conscious & loving community? -To feel more alive? Come play, experience & integrate practical skills to: -Create deep, intimate connections -Transform ordinary surface conversations into juicy, heart opening, enlightening explorations for personal insights & healing -Become more present & comfortable in your own skin -Uncover our “relational blind spots” where we push away the depth of connection & intimacy that’s possible -Practice listening to the essence of someone’s soul -“Get someone’s world” like a mind reader -Tap into the power of your vulnerability that has you more lovable -Be understood, appreciated & celebrated for the essence of who you are -Create more love, connection & community Join us for an evening of authentic relating, practicing profoundly unique skills like getting someone's world (deep empathy), sharing impact (honesty & vulnerability), and speaking the moment (courage, insight, shared reality, making connection more important than content). This work has been powerful and deeply nourishing for me and I'd love to share it with you. I’ve never seen a practice more adept at melting the distance between two hearts. \~ Jon Cotton What does a Circle look like in terms of format, with the Original Circling Approach? A group of 4-10 people sit in a circle & put their attention primarily on one person, and, with the help of a facilitator, notice what it's like being with this person moment by moment, share impact & observations, and co-explore what that person’s experience and world is like, essentially getting into deep relationship with what is most true & alive for that person. A typical evening includes introductions, an exercise to practice authentic relating & 2 rounds of circling - each approximately 30 minutes in length. The experience of “being seen” for who we authentically are is one of the most rewarding experiences we can have as human beings, and the Original Circling Approach teaches us how to see & celebrate each person for the unique flavor they bring to the world. We don’t give advice or try to fix anyone. Rather, we welcome and stay with “what is”, so we can relax into the truth of our experience, feel supported & know we are not alone. “Circling practice is to get in a deep relationship with what is.” * Guy Sengstock, Founder of The Original Circling Approach For deeper understanding, see 6 Things the Circling Practice Does Really Well… http://www.circlinginstitute.com/what-is-original-circling-approach/ **REGISTRATION:** Advanced registration and $30 payment required (Our last event sold out a week ahead of time). Register here: [https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute](https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute?fbclid=IwAR3Yz93WXF0qW8MMUlr423JkMYq4udL31Y0wZdBh-pP7N__QRxZzPsG-sSg) For more info: info@circlinginstitute.com. Your Facilitators: Jon Cotton, Guy Sengstock (Founder of The Circling Method) and/or Circling Institute Facilitators Together, they are not afraid to lead with their own humanity, vulnerability & humor to keep it real. Read more about Jon & Guy here... https://www.circlinginstitute.com/about/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- The term “Circling®” is a registered trademark. The Circling Institute has a license from the International Circling Federation to use the term, in accordance with their guidelines, in relation to the training and facilitation we offer. We are also one of three schools licensed to offer Circling Certification. You can read about the unique distinctions between the three lineages, as well as the standards of service required of licensees, on [The Circling Federation website](https://internationalcirclingfederation.org/). Only practitioners who have been trained, certified & licensed will display the Circling Federation logo.

Protecting Your Creativity While Running a Small Business

Creativity coach Felicia Forte offers an informal group coaching session on maintaining creativity while running your own creative small business. Chocolate and beverages will be served. Felicia attended the Art Students League of New York in 2006, moving next to San Francisco, Ca where she began her career as a fine artist and private instructor of painting. She has exhibited in shows internationally including The BP Portrait Award for which she was awarded second prize. She has been featured in podcasts and publications including The Huffington Post, Dazed Magazine and Artists & Illustrators Magazine UK. Felicia is a highly sought after teacher who has collaborated with museums, schools and workshops all over the globe. She currently maintains a studio practice in San Francisco, CA, holding classes in painting technique and offering coaching online to private students. **MeetUp RSVP does not guarantee registration for SFPL in person programs.**

Coffee & Change

**Challenge your thinking. Reflect deeply. Play with your next step.** ONLY 4 seats - [Reserve on Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/coffee-change-tickets-1987268370191?aff=oddtdtcreator) **Our Topic This Week: Between Possibility and Concern** *Exploring how we think, feel, and move forward in a rapidly changing world.* * AI is changing the world—and challenging how we think about the future. * Some people are curious—they lean in and experiment. Others feel uncertain or worried and pull back out of caution. * What do you feel? * Where does your mind go when you think about the future—toward possibility or toward concern? * What happens inside you when the world doesn’t feel clear, stable, or fully “good”? In this Coffee & Change gathering, we’ll explore what it means to live and move forward in a reality that feels mixed, evolving, and sometimes just really hard to handle. Together, we’ll explore how to find your footing in a world that doesn’t always feel steady. **Coffee & Change** is a recurring gathering in local cafés for people who want to think more clearly, challenge old narratives, and consider new possibilities. Each session centers around a real-life theme—like indecision, resistance, doubt, or goals—and blends open conversation, guided reflection, and coaching-inspired tools to help you see what’s coming up for you and explore what could be next. You’ll walk away with sharper self-awareness, a new way of thinking, and maybe even a next step that feels lighter—and more doable—than before. **What to Expect:** * A small group of thoughtful humans * A bold theme or concept to spark reflection * Space to write, speak, and explore what the topic means for *you* * Questions and conversations that challenge your thinking and expand what's possible **Meeting Details:** * Hosted in cafés across Oakland & the East Bay (surroundings may be noisy) * Please arrive early to grab coffee—we begin right on time * Bring a notebook and pen * Come ready to think, question, and engage *Because space is limited, please only RSVP if you genuinely plan to attend.*

The Original Circling® Approach and Authentic Relating - IN BERKELEY!

Come Join - Our new IN-PERSON Event in Berkeley! **NOTE: This page is for information only.** **Please Ignore the Meetup "Not Open" Button.** **To REGISTER, go here...** [https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute](https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute) Authentic Relating and the “Original Circling® Approach” Be seen, heard, "gotten" & accepted and learn to do the same NOTE: Once we get the IN PERSON event going and established in Berkeley, we will look for a venue in the Peninsula as well. If you are interested in hosting events in your home, let us know! Do you crave: -More fulfilling relationships? -Conscious & loving community? -To feel more alive? Come play, experience & integrate practical skills to: -Create deep, intimate connections -Transform ordinary surface conversations into juicy, heart opening, enlightening explorations for personal insights & healing -Become more present & comfortable in your own skin -Uncover our “relational blind spots” where we push away the depth of connection & intimacy that’s possible -Practice listening to the essence of someone’s soul -“Get someone’s world” like a mind reader -Tap into the power of your vulnerability that has you more lovable -Be understood, appreciated & celebrated for the essence of who you are -Create more love, connection & community Join us for an evening of authentic relating, practicing profoundly unique skills like getting someone's world (deep empathy), sharing impact (honesty & vulnerability), and speaking the moment (courage, insight, shared reality, making connection more important than content). This work has been powerful and deeply nourishing for me and I'd love to share it with you. I’ve never seen a practice more adept at melting the distance between two hearts. \~ Jon Cotton What does a Circle look like in terms of format, with the Original Circling Approach? A group of 4-10 people sit in a circle & put their attention primarily on one person, and, with the help of a facilitator, notice what it's like being with this person moment by moment, share impact & observations, and co-explore what that person’s experience and world is like, essentially getting into deep relationship with what is most true & alive for that person. A typical evening includes introductions, an exercise to practice authentic relating & 2 rounds of circling - each approximately 30 minutes in length. The experience of “being seen” for who we authentically are is one of the most rewarding experiences we can have as human beings, and the Original Circling Approach teaches us how to see & celebrate each person for the unique flavor they bring to the world. We don’t give advice or try to fix anyone. Rather, we welcome and stay with “what is”, so we can relax into the truth of our experience, feel supported & know we are not alone. “Circling practice is to get in a deep relationship with what is.” * Guy Sengstock, Founder of The Original Circling Approach For deeper understanding, see 6 Things the Circling Practice Does Really Well… http://www.circlinginstitute.com/what-is-original-circling-approach/ **REGISTRATION:** Advanced registration and $30 payment required (Our last event sold out a week ahead of time). Register here: [https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute](https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute?fbclid=IwAR3Yz93WXF0qW8MMUlr423JkMYq4udL31Y0wZdBh-pP7N__QRxZzPsG-sSg) For more information, contact us at info@circlinginstitute.com Your Facilitators: Jon Cotton, Guy Sengstock (Founder of The Circling Method) and/or Circling Institute Facilitators (One of these facilitators and/or our well trained staff will be leading this event). Together, they are not afraid to lead with their own humanity, vulnerability and humor to keep it real. Read more about Jon & Guy here... https://www.circlinginstitute.com/about/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- The term “Circling®” is a registered trademark. The Circling Institute has a license from the International Circling Federation to use the term, in accordance with their guidelines, in relation to the training and facilitation we offer. We are also one of three schools licensed to offer Circling Certification. You can read about the unique distinctions between the three lineages, as well as the standards of service required of licensees, on [The Circling Federation website](https://internationalcirclingfederation.org/). Only practitioners who have been trained, certified & licensed will display the Circling Federation logo.

Understanding Money Matters, 4 Steps to Financial Strength

Explore core principles of building wealth, common challenges that can undermine financial progress and strategies for protecting your legacy. Participants will be guided through a clear, step-by-step framework for strengthening their finances and will receive a personal financial check-up to help assess their current position and identify next steps. Elaine R. Redus is a native San Franciscan, financial empowerment leader, and owner of Elaine Redus & Associates, where she serves as a life insurance & annuity expert committed to helping families, women, and underserved communities build, protect, and preserve wealth. She has delivered more than 500 speaking engagements across the nation and in 2025, she was awarded 2025 Top Ten American Business Woman by the American Business Women's Association. Her mission is to expand financial literacy, elevate women’s economic power, and support the economic advancement of Black families and entrepreneurs throughout San Francisco. A partnership between the [San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce ](https://www.sfaacc.org/)and the Small Business and African American Centers of the San Francisco Public Library.

The Original Circling® Approach & Authentic Relating - IN BERKELEY!

Come Join - Our new IN-PERSON Event in Berkeley! **NOTE: This page is for information only.** **Please Ignore the Meetup "Not Open" Button.** **To REGISTER, go here...** [https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute](https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute) Authentic Relating and the “Original Circling® Approach” Be seen, heard, "gotten" & accepted and learn to do the same NOTE: If you are interested in hosting events in your home in Marin, let us know! Do you crave: -More fulfilling relationships? -Conscious & loving community? -To feel more alive? Come play, experience & integrate practical skills to: -Create deep, intimate connections -Transform ordinary surface conversations into juicy, heart opening, enlightening explorations for personal insights & healing -Become more present & comfortable in your own skin -Uncover our “relational blind spots” where we push away the depth of connection & intimacy that’s possible -Practice listening to the essence of someone’s soul -“Get someone’s world” like a mind reader -Tap into the power of your vulnerability that has you more lovable -Be understood, appreciated & celebrated for the essence of who you are -Create more love, connection & community Join us for an evening of authentic relating, practicing profoundly unique skills like getting someone's world (deep empathy), sharing impact (honesty & vulnerability), and speaking the moment (courage, insight, shared reality, making connection more important than content). This work has been powerful and deeply nourishing for me and I'd love to share it with you. I’ve never seen a practice more adept at melting the distance between two hearts. \~ Jon Cotton What does a Circle look like, with the Original Circling Approach? A group of 4-10 people sit in a circle & put their attention primarily on one person, and, with the help of a facilitator, notice what it's like being with this person moment by moment, share impact & observations, and co-explore what that person’s experience and world is like, essentially getting into deep relationship with what is most true & alive for that person. A typical evening includes introductions, an exercise to practice authentic relating & 2 rounds of circling - each approximately 30 minutes in length. The experience of “being seen” for who we authentically are is one of the most rewarding experiences we can have as human beings, and the Original Circling Approach teaches us how to see & celebrate each person for the unique flavor they bring to the world. We don’t give advice or try to fix anyone. Rather, we welcome and stay with “what is”, so we can relax into the truth of our experience, feel supported & know we are not alone. “Circling practice is to get in a deep relationship with what is.” * Guy Sengstock, Founder of The Original Circling Approach For deeper understanding, see 6 Things the Circling Practice Does Really Well… http://www.circlinginstitute.com/what-is-original-circling-approach/ **REGISTRATION:** Advanced registration and $30 payment required (Our last event sold out a week ahead of time). Register here: [https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute](https://buytickets.at/thecirclinginsitute?fbclid=IwAR3Yz93WXF0qW8MMUlr423JkMYq4udL31Y0wZdBh-pP7N__QRxZzPsG-sSg) For more information, contact us at info@circlinginstitute.com Your Facilitators: Jon Cotton, Guy Sengstock (Founder of The Circling Approach) and/or Circling Institute Facilitators (One of these facilitators and/or our well trained staff will be leading this event). Together, they are not afraid to lead with their own humanity, vulnerability and humor to keep it real. Read more about Jon & Guy here... https://www.circlinginstitute.com/about/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- The term “Circling®” is a registered trademark. The Circling Institute has a license from the International Circling Federation to use the term, in accordance with their guidelines, in relation to the training and facilitation we offer. We are also one of three schools licensed to offer Circling Certification. You can read about the unique distinctions between the three lineages, as well as the standards of service required of licensees, on [The Circling Federation website](https://internationalcirclingfederation.org/). Only practitioners who have been trained, certified & licensed will display the Circling Federation logo.

Own Your Narrative: How PR & AI Power Small Business Growth

Explore how entrepreneurs can take control of their brand story, use AI tools to work more efficiently and apply public relations strategies to build credibility, increase visibility and support long-term growth. Drawing on insights from Varner PR Agency, the session highlights the role of strategic media positioning in helping small businesses stand out in a competitive landscape. **Sandra Varner** is the founder of Varner PR & Community Engagement, where she has led award-winning media strategy and community initiatives since 1991. Her work spans four continents and includes national press events for the NBA and NFL, as well as major regional efforts such as the $1M COVID-19 Resiliency Relief Program. A former journalist and NABJ facilitator, she is a proud Southern University alumna, Delta Sigma Theta member and active leader in civic and cultural organizations. **Keonnis Taylor** is a public affairs strategist with more than 20 years of experience in media relations, communications and stakeholder engagement across the transportation, aviation and public sectors. She currently serves as Public Information Officer for San José Mineta International Airport. Internationally recognized for her work, she has guided elected officials, business communities and the public through complex infrastructure projects, supporting multi-agency collaboration and advancing community-focused outcomes. **MeetUp RSVP does not guarantee registration for SFPL in person programs.**