Coaching Groups San Francisco

ELC Annual 2026: 2-Day Conference for Eng Leaders to Reconnect in San Francisco

The ***[ELC Annual](https://elc.community/public/events/elc-annual-2026)*** is built around a simple belief: the most valuable learning happens in conversation - with peers who are navigating the same pressures, making the same hard calls, and building through the same uncertainty. This year, we're going deeper on the questions that don't have easy answers. What does it mean to lead well when the ground keeps shifting? How do you build teams that are resilient, high-trust, and genuinely high-performing, not just on paper? What does great engineering leadership look like beyond the technical, in the moments that require judgment, integrity, and clarity of purpose? Across roundtable discussions, intimate speaking sessions, and 1:1 conversations, you'll engage with engineering leaders who are thinking seriously about these questions — and willing to share what they've actually learned. — What you'll explore * Leadership & Strategy Leading through uncertainty and volatile decision-making environments. The evolving CTO/VP role — from roadmap owner to visionary strategist. Ethical decision-making, leadership integrity, and purpose-driven organizations. Storytelling and influence: communicating complex ideas to executives and boards. * Teams & Culture Building high-trust teams and psychological safety at scale. Navigating culture shifts in growing organizations. Scaling hybrid and remote work — the practices and rituals that actually stick. Building inclusive engineering cultures and diverse talent pipelines. * Talent & People Development Developing next-generation leaders through mentoring and succession planning. Continuous performance management and feedback systems. Retention, engagement, and creating environments where people genuinely thrive. Hiring for potential: assessing soft skills and growth mindset. * Cross-Functional Collaboration Aligning engineering, product, and design around shared outcomes. Breaking down silos with tools and practices that work. Customer-centric engineering: building products users truly love. Cross-functional OKRs and collaborative planning across roadmaps and backlogs. * AI in Practice Building AI-enabled teams — what it looks like beyond the theory. AI in software development: coding assistants, prompt engineering, and human-AI collaboration. Translating AI trends into actionable engineering strategy. Architecting AI systems that make it to production and stay there. * Engineering Excellence Measuring developer productivity, satisfaction, and team health. Observability and incident response in AI-enabled systems. Balancing innovation with operational priorities. Coaching teams through change without losing momentum. — What to expect **Roundtable Discussions** Small-group sessions facilitated by experienced practitioners — designed for active participation, not passive listening. These are the conversations where people say what they actually think. **Speaking Sessions** Close-up conversations with engineering leaders who are actively shaping what the role looks like today. Past speakers have included leaders from OpenAI, Stripe, Google, Dropbox, Atlassian, and Slack, as well as Reid Hoffman, Max Levchin, and Adam Grant. **1:1 Meetings** Structured time to connect directly with peers, mentors, and industry veterans. Some of the most valuable relationships in ELC have started here. — Leave with a clearer sense of what kind of leader you want to be - and a network of people who are working toward the same thing. Register ***[here](https://elc.community/public/events/elc-annual-2026)***.

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)

The Campfire Circle: , Fire, Fun, and Brotherhood

Join us for an evening of connection, laughter, and challenge — no fluff, no judgment, just good fun, honest conversation, and solid brotherhood. Whether you're craving purpose, support, or just something different… this is the night you've been needing.

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

Bay Area Singles Relational Lab - Facilitated Connection Experience

# Tired of dating apps culture and surface-level? This is different. And people often leave surprised by how quickly strangers can feel human, warm, honest, and real again. Free to RSVP, 👉 $59 to confirm your spot [https://consciousconnectionsclub.com/stayconnected](https://consciousconnectionsclub.com/join) Relational Labs is a guided connection experience for singles who want more honest, playful, emotionally intelligent interaction — without performance, pressure, or endless small talk. This is not speed dating. Not networking. Not “pitch yourself to strangers.” It’s a facilitated relational container rooted in psychology, emotional intelligence, attachment work, social dynamics, nervous system awareness, and real-world human connection — made practical enough that you can actually live it instead of reading another 50 books about it. ## What happens • A 2-hour guided online relational experience • Real-time connection exercises designed to create authentic interaction • A format that adapts in real time to whoever is present • Optional participant-led in-person continuation afterward • WhatsApp connection thread after the session ## This may be for you if: • You’re tired of shallow or repetitive social spaces • You want deeper connection without forced intimacy • You enjoy personal growth, psychology, communication, or relational work • You’re open to meeting people in a more intentional way ## Important This experience runs with whoever is present and takes its own shape each time. Sometimes expansive. Sometimes intimate. Both are the real thing.

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.

Alameda Tongue Twisters, a Toastmasters Club

Every Tuesday we meet! Do you want to level up your public speaking? Maybe you’re working on job skills, running a meeting, or feeling comfortable talking to groups. Maybe you just want something to do on Tuesdays! We are a safe and welcoming place to explore your skills. There is no fee until you decide to become a full member, and you can be a guest as many times as you want. Come check us out and see if it’s right for you. We'd love to meet ya. :)

Kind Voice Club Begins: Learning the Practice of Kind Voice Together

**Curious what it would be like to relate to your mind with more kindness?** **And to practice that with a community of people who care about doing the same?** To attend, please register at **[www.kindvoiceclub.com](http://www.kindvoiceclub.com/)**. After registering, you’ll receive a welcome email and additional details about the upcoming Kind Voice Club gatherings beginning June 4. When you register you will also receive a free **“Starting Kind Voice: 8 Phrases” pocket guide**, a simple reference with phrases that help shift the mind from critical voice thinking toward curiosity and kindness. Kind Voice Club is a regular live gathering where we practice developing a compassionate, curious relationship with our own minds and with each other. The practice of kind voice helps strengthen executive function and self regulation by engaging the prefrontal cortex rather than the brain’s automatic threat responses. Over time, this builds the capacity to meet thoughts, emotions, and challenges with greater clarity, steadiness, and compassion. In these gatherings we learn how to bring a kind voice toward our inner experience and how to speak with others using a particular conversational format that grows out of research on reflective function in attachment theory. For those who enjoy the deeper neuroscience background, you can read more here: [https://www.centerforintegration.com/blog/kind-voice-rewiring-the-brain](https://www.centerforintegration.com/blog/kind-voice-rewiring-the-brain) This is not therapy and not a lecture. It is a relational learning space where we practice together. Many people find that when the mind becomes self critical, anxious, or overwhelmed, the internal dialogue becomes harsh or reactive. Kind voice is a skill that helps shift that inner conversation toward curiosity, warmth, and understanding. With practice, this can support: • emotional regulation • resilience during stress • stronger executive function • deeper self understanding • healthier relationships • a greater sense of internal steadiness Each session includes a combination of brief teaching, guided reflection, and small group practice around a specific topic. **Graduates of the two year [Brain Health Program](https://www.centerforintegration.com/kindvoiceprogram)** from the Center for Integration **will also be present** **to help guide** the breakout room practices and support new participants. No prior experience is needed. Whether you are new to the practice or have been studying with the Center for Integration programs, you are welcome.

Meditate on Mondays

This weekly class presents easy-to-learn meditations and helpful teachings that we can immediately use to improve our work and relationships, cultivate inner peace and increase our enjoyment of daily life. With 20 to 25 minutes of this one hour class spent in 2 guided meditations, this is a great practice to gain real experience meditating on practical Buddhist teachings of wisdom and compassion. Everyone is welcome. No experience necessary. TEACHER: Susan Tait has been studying and teaching Buddhist meditation for many years and has taught Kadampa meditation in the US and the UK. She presents the teachings in a practical and often humorous way making it easy to apply in daily life.

Buddhist

A practical and uplifting series' of meditations and talks with the country's most senior Kadampa Buddhist nun on how we can transform our daily problems and triumphs into opportunities to create a more meaningful life. WHAT TO EXPECT: Practical teachings Simple guided meditation sessions Discussion and Q&A Delicious, complimentary refreshments in community room bookstore after

Somatic Breathwork : Creating Health, Vitality, and Longevity.

# Somatic Breathwork and Deep Relaxation: Creating Health, Vitality, and Longevity Suggested Donation: $20-$25 In this class, along with various breathing practices, we will cultivate awareness in the body and breath and slow it down to enter the subtler aspects of our beings. Breathing this way will open our body and breath to reduce stress, integrate trauma, and cultivate more space and energy. Energy thus created moves freely in the open space without any blockage, which helps to strengthen our lungs and inner system, making us more vital, fit, and healthy. Healthy, functional breathing exercises help improve our lungs, **open our system, and cultivate more energy and free movement.** To join the meeting, donate here and RSVp here or Use Venmo to Pay Mahendra Agarwal (https://venmo.com/briksha) or PayPal: briksha@rays-mandala.org We hope to meet you here. Mahendra [https://www.meetup.com/bayarea-conscious-breathing-and-eating/events/](https://www.meetup.com/bayarea-conscious-breathing-and-eating/events/)