You're invited to join a group of fellow nonprofit executives!

Obtain solutions to vexing leadership challenges in a confidential environment, guided by a trained facilitator and coach. This structured process allows you to consult with peer CEOs and Executive Directors in a community of trusted confidantes in an inspiring retreat-like setting surrounded by nature.

Strengthen your problem-solving and confidence in the face of ever-evolving business challenges.


“It was great to feel the support of an expert panel and other social impact executives." - Stu W.


“Great presentation today. Wonderful energy! I feel inspired and enlightened." - Kathy K.


"I just wanted to follow up and say "thank you" for yesterday's event. That was a lot of great information, and a lot of great people.” - Rice E.


“I really enjoyed the session and super proud of you for the amazing work you are doing. Thanks for being a divine angel to all nonprofit leaders.” - Pratiksha G.


Why should I join a mastermind?

It can be lonely at the top. You’re in a position that few others seem to “get.” Obtaining consistent, trustworthy, and candid feedback is often elusive from those who report up to you. There are not many places you can turn to for meaningful support.  

Do you ever find yourself...

  • Stressed about how you're going to meet payroll?
  • At your wits' end on how to get your Board of Directors more actively engaged and aligned?
  • Wrestling with how to improve your organization's programs and services? 
  • Feeling pressure from employees, donors, and other constituents to take a stand on sensitive or polarizing political issues without alienating anyone?
  • Struggling to attract and retain valued and talented employees? 
  • Falling short with executing your organization's DEI goals? 
  • Frustrated by the lack of cohesion and engagement among your employees?
  • Overwhelmed by the enormous responsibilities you're carrying?

Key Benefits

  • Greater self-awareness and confidence

  • Solutions to complex and chronic problems

  • Wiser decisions

  • Broader perspective with deeper insights

  • Alleviated anxiety and stress

  • Improved leadership effectiveness and results

  • Enhanced energy and engagement

  • Clearer judgement

Who is it for?

This Mastermind group is designed for Nonprofit Executives in San Diego.

  • Isolated Executive Directors/CEOs seeking a sounding board of expert advisors

  • First-time Executive Directors/CEOs new to their role seeking to increase confidence

  • Seasoned Executive Directors/CEOs seeking to elevate their leadership capabilities

  • Executive Directors/CEOs seeking a more affordable solution than traditional 1:1 coaching

What's included?

  • Regular monthly Mastermind sessions (3½ hours)

  • One 60-minute personal Executive Coaching session per quarter

  • Expertly facilitated conversations from a certified coach

  • Pre and post-meeting assignments

  • Curated resources and learning materials tailored to member needs and goals

  • Occasional social events each year (spouses and significant others welcome)

  • Occasional guest speakers with expertise on topics of shared interest to group

  • Complimentary DiSC Work Style and Personality Assessment

  • One 30 minute 1:1 goal setting session with facilitator and coach Mike Gellman

Nonprofit Advisors

Imagine having your own personal team of problem solvers and subject-matter experts. 


Mastermind membership includes access to 1:1 consulting and exclusive Q&A sessions that would normally cost over $5,000 in total value. 



Through a combination of private 1:1 sessions and group Q&A’s, these advisors will be sharing their perspectives and wisdom exclusively for the benefit of our Nonprofit Executive Mastermind group members.


Learn more about our expert advisory team and their areas of expertise.


What makes us different?

  • Hand-selected and diverse group of peer CEOs/Executive Directors from similar size organizations and leadership challenges

  • Inspiring retreat-like setting surrounded by nature

  • Convenient Encinitas location in North County

  • Guidance from a coach with both Fortune 500 and Nonprofit leadership experience 

  • Flexible enrollment with no long term commitment necessary. Start with as little as 6-month enrollment (on a space available basis).

  • Bonus sessions with headliner guest speakers on hot topics of special interest to group members

  • Option to accelerate your progress with additional private 1:1 professional coaching from an International Coach Federation certified coach

When and where will we meet?

All regular monthly sessions will be held at The HIVE at Leichtag Commonsa unique and inspiring co-working space, situated on a beautiful 67-acre farm in Encinitas overlooking the Pacific Ocean (the former home of Ecke Ranch).

This first cohort will begin November 16 and meet on the third Thursday each month from 1pm – 4:30pm (with the exception of December which will meet the second Thursday).

It’s not too late to join the movement and get the support you need. We’ll be accepting new applicants to the Mastermind on a rolling basis until we meet our maximum membership of 12 CEOs/EDs. There are just a few spots left if you wish to take your leadership and organization to the next level. We’re here for you!

2023-2024 Schedule (subject to change)

  • November 16
  • December 14
  • January 18
  • February 15
  • March 21
  • April 18
  • May 16
  • June 20
  • July 18
  • August 15
  • September 19
  • October 17


Sample Agenda (subject to change)

  • What’s new and inspiring? 
  • Group discussion on significant topic of shared interest (may include guest subject matter expert)
  • Spotlight problem-solving of real-time group member challenges
  • Takeaways and commitments to action

F.A.Q.

Will what I share be kept confidential? 

Absolutely. Confidentiality is critical for building and maintaining trust among members. A key principle we live by is “what’s said in the room, stays in the room” unless otherwise agreed upon by the group. 

Who will the guest speakers be? 

Guest speakers will be based on the interests and needs of the group and may include subject matter experts, business and community leaders, and potential vendors who can add value. 

Can I attend meetings virtually via Zoom? 

Not at this time. All meetings will be in-person.

Additional questions?

Email [email protected]


Meet Your Facilitator

Mike Gellman, CEO & Founder of High Five Career Coaching

Mike coaches highly-motivated leaders and teams in various stages of their development to gain greater clarity, create sustainable change, and achieve higher levels of excellence. With a Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, he’s also an ACC credentialed coach via the International Coach Federation and author of Pipe Dreams: 7 Pipelines of Career Success.


For over 20 years, Mike successfully has facilitated numerous enterprise-wide talent management and organizational development initiatives including succession planning, high potential leader development programs, employee engagement, team development, and organizational change efforts. He launched his nonprofit career in organizational development at the world famous San Diego Zoo (now San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance). During that time, Mike also volunteered his efforts to create an award-winning mentorship program for the Association for Talent Development-San Diego (formerly ASTD) that recently celebrated its 21st year of successfully preparing future leaders. He subsequently served in capacity-building roles for Father Joe’s Villages and South Bay Community Services. In the corporate sector, Mike launched and managed a highly regarded Career Coaching & Development Center for Sempra Energy’s SoCalGas organization while also serving on the board of Sempra Employee Giving Network, an employee-run nonprofit foundation. 


In addition to being a proud dad of a bright college junior, Jonas, Mike enjoys running, hiking, nature photography, and volunteering within his community. You can often find him pulling weeds at Coastal Roots Farm and leading free Nonprofit NetWalks about town. Born and raised in Cleveland, he currently resides in Oceanside.