Client Testimonials

Veronica, Girl Scouts of Orange County

“Heidi has been an invaluable mentor, consistently providing encouragement and insightful guidance throughout my career journey. When I was struggling to find my direction, she helped me confront my uncertainties and fears, ultimately clarifying my sense of purpose. During times of frustration, her coaching enabled me to shift my perspective and uncover new opportunities.

Her unwavering support has been instrumental in my professional growth, which has led to two promotions. I am deeply grateful for her mentorship and the profound impact it has had on my career.”

Jillian, Surf and Turf Therapy

“I have had the privilege of working with Heidi Kasevich as my executive coach for several years, and her unique perspective has been invaluable. She expertly guides self-reflection, which has been key to my personal and professional growth. From my early days of feeling unsure about where I wanted to go with my business, to leading a growing organization and managing complex challenges,

Heidi has been there every step of the way. Her care and reliability are unmatched-she makes time for emergent situations and never misses a scheduled meeting. I couldn’t recommend her enough.”

Irene Basdakis, Chief Executive Officer – Grandma’s House of Hope

“Executive Coaches of Orange County (ECOC) is an amazing resource for all Orange County non-profit leaders. I am grateful to be working with Shaheen Husain as my fundraising coach and coaches Clay Halvorsen and Tara Norton with our Tuesday Morning Forums where other Orange County nonprofit leaders meet to share experiences, resources, support and insight on current work challenges that anyone in the group is having.

I am also working with coach Larry Tucker to plan our board retreat in 2025. And now each of my own Executive Team leaders have their own individual coaches with ECOC. I only wish I knew about this wonderful organization sooner.”

Elaine Muselli, Manager – Analytics & Special Projects, OC Rescue Mission

“EC of OC is a wonderful organization that provides seasoned coaches to mentor non-profit professionals. In particular, to grow in your capacity and define and reach professional goals. Allison Alvarez has been a phenomenal leadership coach and it’s been a gift to work with her.”

“Thank you so much for the connection to ECofOC. From the initial application process, to the vetting process with Allison, it has been awesome. To be paired with Lee Ann Maki as my executive coach, is amazing. She is exactly the right coach for me and we have had two successful calls so far. She is truly an insightful and together person who asks very pointed and specific questions, designed to make me think. This has worked perfectly. It is so helpful to think about the answers, flush out the issues, and talk through solutions with Lee Anne.”

Andi Long, Founder & CEO, Bloom Foundation – a nonprofit empowering and encouraging young women experiencing bullying

“I am so grateful for ECOC and for my coach, Sam Dawson. I met Sam three years ago and she has helped both myself and Bloom Foundation ‘bloom’ over the last few years. I am so grateful to have her as a coach! She has shared countless life lessons and also invaluable business advice to help me keep growing and to keep going. One of my favorite things Sam has shared with me (there’s a lot) is to remind myself “It’s easy, I’m good at it and I like it!” I also appreciate how she holds me accountable and she is a great sounding board and active listener. It is amazing to reflect on the past few years with Sam as my coach to see how much I have grown as both a nonprofit business owner and a person because of Sam. Thank you to ECOC for all that you do!”

Kathy Corpuz and Mary Sidhom

In the few months I have been working with my Executive Coach, Mary Sidhom, I have found our meetings to be very valuable. In the office, it’s easy to get caught up in my growing To Do List, but she affords me the opportunity to step away from the day-to-day busyness of my job and look at my organization and my role through a different lens.

Working with Mary is helping me to identify my personal and professional strengths in order to refocus my efforts to better serve myself, my team, and my organization in the long run.

Mary has challenged me to get comfortable being uncomfortable in order to reach my goals. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to continuing to work with my trusted coach.

Mikaela Buchanan and Mary Sidhom

In my time with Mary at ECofOC I have felt truly supported. I often just want her to give me the answer of what to do next, but she has helped me to learn and grow and really ask myself where I am heading and where I would like to be.

Her coaching has pushed and challenged me, but I feel so supported in my overall development. I am happy to have her caring for me as my coach. I believe the tools I have learned will help me for many years to come.

Violette Prentice and Monica Horner

I have had the pleasure of working with Monica through her role at the Executive Coaches of Orange County. She is deeply insightful, provides wonderful guidance, and uses her incredible skills to drive an individual to the best outcome.

For me, Monica is the ultimate brainstorming partner. With her guidance we have been able to leverage our creative thinking and come to some creative solutions. I highly recommend both Monica and the coaching program through Executive Coaches of Orange County.

Martha Ryan and Amy Lagera

In my search for guidance as a new executive director of Adaptive Freedom Foundation I found ECofOC. I was blessed to have been paired with Martha Ryan!

Our time together is so valuable. Martha has thoughtfully helped me choose a path and navigate my way through the (for me) unknown. She does so in a way that allows me to think through the process. She doesn’t just tell me what to do, she shares her experiences and the experiences of her other clients.

Every step of the way Martha has shared resources and contacts. She has been supportive not only in our meetings but in follow up emails and phone calls. She knows the heart of our organization because she takes the time to come to our events. She has invested in my success as and ED and the success of the nonprofit.

I have come to know Martha not only as my coach but also as my friend. I have gained confidence in my position as an ED because I know I can rely on Martha’s guidance and support.

I highly recommend Martha Ryan as a coach!

Yolanda Wright, Senior Director Advancement Operations, Biola University

“Working with May Chan of ECofOC has provided me with a more proactive approach to managing my team. Additionally, I have been equipped with better problem solving skills and more efficient time management tools. May has challenged my way of thinking for the better and has assisted me with ways to better hold myself and my team accountable for meeting outcomes.”

Max Carter, Executive Director, Seeking Opportunities that Change Lives

“Bob Cryer has been working with our Board of Directors for over five years now, providing salient and helpful feedback and guidance. This has been particularly appreciated during the difficult times that many non-profits face in challenging economic environments. Bob’s geniality makes him particularly easy to work with, and the fact that he funds all his own organization’s coaching services (client entities like ours are not charged), is telling of his deep generosity and interest in contributing to our community.”

Jerry Creekpaum, Chief Operating Officer, Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County 

“I have been in the Executive Coaches of Orange County program for only a short time, and I admit to being reluctant to accept when the offer was made. Looking back now after having been working with my coach for a few months I am very pleased that I accepted the opportunity. Working with Joel Mascitelli is a great experience. He is an excellent and patient listener with whom I have felt comfortable with from our first meeting throughout. Joel brings experience and an understanding of many of the challenges and scenarios that I face throughout my typical day as well as areas that may be new to me. He offers sound insight into how I may be handling a situation with my peers or direct reports. In addition he shares his own experiences in relation to the topic, and offers alternative approaches that I may consider.   In my career I have been to numerous training programs, and seminars designed to improve skills and also leadership ability. Though I have benefitted from the processes it isn’t the same as being able to talk through a situation or challenge with my coach for as little or long amount of time needed. We meet in person monthly, and I can call Joel any time I may feel a need to. The ECOC program will make a positive difference for any organization and its leadership team, and I recommend it confidently.”

“Thank You to the ECofOC Program and my Coach, she has been an incredible support in my life, both personally and professionally! I’m so grateful to have a wise and encouraging Coach like May Chan!”

It has been a pleasure to work with Sam Dawson at ECofOC in grappling with some of the strategic issues for Habitat for Humanity Orange County.  Sam has been thoughtful and probing in her questions as we strived to get to the true issue. .  Taking the time to understand the complexities of the organization allowed her to have a better understanding of how our issue meshed with the other arms of Habitat.

During our time together Sam has consistently shown her interest in ‘moving the needle’ while understanding some of the challenges that have been in the way.

I am honored to have had the time with Sam as she offered me the opportunity to not only think through a problem but to also have a solid sounding board for discussion.  Having that outsider perspective was of great value to me and to my organization.

Nicole Suydam, CEO Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County

I’d like to offer my sincere appreciation to the the Executive Coaches of Orange County (ECofOC). Several of our leaders at Second Harvest participate in your coaching program and appreciate the support of a trusted advisor.

ECofOC Coaches have helped our leaders navigate important transitions personally and professionally that make them stronger and more effective leaders for Second Harvest’s mission. They value the opportunity to call on their coach even during non-scheduled times for urgent issues where they need a confidential and objective sounding board.

Your coaching program should be given serious consideration by all non-profit professionals in a leadership position in Orange County. ECofOC is a great way to develop and grow our leaders to ensure the sustainability and success of all non-profit organizations in Orange County.

I highly recommend this program to all my colleagues in Orange County.

Sarah Pizzaruso, Vice President of Marketing and Development with Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire

As an organization, we feel incredibly privileged to have 3 of our current staff working with ECofOC coaches, and 2 additional team members who have worked with a coach in the past. I have found ECofOC’s services to be absolutely invaluable to the success of our organization.

As an organization, professional development is something we place as a focus for our staff, a trait that helped earn us a spot in the Orange County Business Journal’s “Best Places to Work” list in 2016. We take pride in helping our team members improve their leadership ability, management skills and hone their communication styles. We encourage continued education in coursework, online programs, and most importantly, personal coaching through ECofOC.

ECofOC gives our team members the opportunity to put a priority not just on job-related growth, but PERSONAL development as a leader. Having the chance to work with a coach who is NOT involved in our organization or day­ to-day operations allows the employee to be truly honest with their challenges. In turn, the coach is able to be completely open with their advice – not affected by how it plays into other issues. They are able to challenge our team members’ way of thinking, and hold them accountable to their own promises. There is no “performance review” being placed on record -the employee is motivated solely by getting “better” -becoming a stronger leader, a more confident communicator, a more approachable peer.

With the personal one-on-one approach, the employee isn’t limited by concerns of how their questions will look in front of others, and they can feel completely free to share concerns both personal and professional without fear of consequence. This open communication allows each staff member to truly feel valued and appreciated as an individual, not just as their job title.

In speaking with my team members, their descriptions of their coaches were similar, despite the very different backgrounds of each coach. They were described as “honest,” “wise,” “sincere,” “thoughtful,” and “experienced” – clearly each one has gained great respect from our team.

When new managers join our staff, discussing the ECofOC opportunity is now part of our onboarding program. Current participants have given their own advice on the benefits of the program -most recently one shared with a teammate: “If you want to grow as an individual, be challenged in your thought process and learn a great deal about yourself , meeting with an ECofOC coach is a step in the right direction.”

We are incredibly fortunate to have ECofOC partner with Make-A-Wish to bring this incredible service to our organization. We are sincerely grateful for the enrichment of our team.

Jennifer Allen, Executive Director, Corazon, Inc.

“Lois Carson is my coach and she is incredible! When I look back at my successes such as a well-defined and supported vision, increased funding and partners, increased programs in Mexico and increased staff, I can see conversations and meetings I had with Lois behind each one. She has made a huge impact in my professional and personal life. The days when I talk to or meet with her are my best days.”

Elizabeth Arteaga, President, National Hispanic Business Women Association

“Martha Ryan is a master of strategy. She helped me use her strategy to run an effective board of directors. Showed me how to gain true leverage and be able to handle both big and small task with ease.”

Amira Barger, Chief Development Officer, Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County

“I have found my coaching experience with the Executive Coaches of Orange County program to be extremely valuable. Working with my coach Adrianne Geiger-DuMond has helped me to recognize, understand and explain complex organization relationships. She pushes me to think outside the box and explore other vantage points. Adrianne has never hesitated to tactfully but directly point out areas in which I need to grow or consider new ways of thinking. Change is hard, but it is much more achievable with an advocate and partner like Adrianne and the ECOC program. Adrianne has been a valued resource, sounding board and confidant as I hone my communication style and interaction with peers across the organization. The ECOC program has made a huge difference during a time of leadership transition for me and I am proud to have been chosen to participate.”

Marieta Francis, Executive Director, Algalita Marin Research and Education 

“My experience with Executive Coaches of Orange County covers several years and has proven invaluable. My first experience was with Larry Tucker and Joel Mascitelli.   They helped me organize a strategic planning exercise with our Board Members resulting in our organization’s first strategic plan. Later on, they introduced me to the ED Forum and invited me to participate. I have remained active in my group, which is facilitated by John Benner and Robin Noah. This group has provided me with a tremendous amount of guidance and support as we have shared our experiences and organizations activities over the past three years. Robin has also offered guidance on several HR issues as our organization has moved through several changes in staff and leadership. ECofOC has made me grow as a leader and given me more confidence in my role.”

Kari Irwin and Martha Ryan

“Working with Martha Ryan and ECofOC, has been a career game changer for me.  Our time together is an opportunity to create professional goals, strategize with an expert, and brainstorm conflict resolutions with an unbiased colleague.  The impact I make in my organization is greater because of this coaching experience.”

Sean Lawrence, Executive Director, Giving Children Hope 

“My transition to the position of Executive Director has been greatly assisted by the support of Executive Coaches of Orange County. My executive Coach, Joe Schoeningh, has not only been able to give me general counsel in how to succeed in my new role as ED, but his background and expertise are in the same field of service as our organization. His pairing with me has been a perfect fit. His insight and coaching have been critical in preparing me to meet the challenges of my position and therefore have played an important role in making us a healthier and more focused organization. I highly recommend the services of ECOC to any executive interested in improving his/her skills and avoiding pitfalls through the counsel of those who have been there before us.”

Jodi Levine, Director, Earthroots Field School 

“As a relatively new Executive Director needing experienced advice, I appreciate Bob Cryer sitting with me to process the ebb and flow of running a non-profit. Bob has offered guidance and a listening ear on issues from fundraising to managing staff members, working with a board of directors and expanding the organization.

Executive Coaches of Orange County is a brilliant creation… pairing experienced, retired business Executives with non-profit Executives who need support and tools to grow their mission.”

Debra Marsteller, Executive Director, Project Independence 

“Having an objective and perceptive facilitator for our board retreat was our goal.  What I didn’t realize was how important the planning piece was for the success of the day. Larry was thoughtful, smart and fun, making the prep time useful and enjoyable. We were able to articulate our goals for each part of the day, making sure that we could engage the entire board and not waste anyone’s time. Because we were prepared, when faced with construction instead of a professional board room, we were able to laugh and make the most of it.  Without the leadership and professionalism of ECofOC, I’m sure the day would have been a nightmare. Each member of our board individually reported this was our best retreat ever.”

Christine Montevideo, Volunteerism Manager, Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County 

“By working with my executive coach, I have not only been able to talk through and brainstorm ideas for dealing with various work-related issues, but we have been able to identify and work on professional development goal, both of which help me to be a better manager and employee.”

Katie Ritchey, Executive Director, Deborah’s Palm

“Working with Martha Ryan has made a monumental impact on our small nonprofit’s progress from the very beginning. She not only helps me personally stay on task, but sees the big picture and thinks strategically to get the right pieces in place to ensure success. Her experience had made a vital contribution and I always come away with practical tips, ideas, encouragement and direction for the next steps. Martha has made a huge difference and her long-lasting legacy is something we are all extremely grateful for. Her gift of time, expertise and vision has been very appreciated.”

Bonnie L. Silver, Author, Consultant, Speaker

“I had the pleasure to meet and consult with Bob on several occasions as I was inquiring about starting a not-for-profit. Bob Cryer’s honest and candid approach allowed me to learn the many facets required to running a not-for-profit.

Bob’s insight and guidance led me down the path of serving and volunteering versus working to start my own 501(c)3. He saved me from wasting many hours and a lot of money as he steered me toward putting that energy and money toward an existing charity. Thanks to Bob, I have been donating my time, energy and resources, to not-for-profit’s that are close to my heart. I have been able to help make a difference and it didn’t require me from starting my own 501(c)3. I am so grateful to Bob for his patience, guidance, and the clarity he helped me gain through our counseling sessions. Bob is truly a caring and insightful person. He is gifted with the business aspects, while also being able to tune into the individuals’ needs. I will always be grateful for his kindness, honesty, and guidance.”

Robin Sinclair, Executive Director, Casa Youth Shelter

“Meeting monthly with Executive Coach Larry Tucker has proved invaluable. I have benefited from his many years in an executive role in business, particularly as I transitioned from my previous organization to Casa Youth Shelter as Executive Director, after my predecessor of 25 years had been at the helm. Casa Youth Shelter has a very established culture and climate and Larry’s guidance helped navigate the hills and valleys in such a way that created an almost seamless transition.  His resourcefulness and creativity continues to provide answers that help me to be the best Executive Director I can be, ultimately ensuring that Casa Youth Shelter is the best agency it can be.”

Sandra Peffer Stone, Director, The Imagine Foundation, Inc.

“It’s been two years since I worked with Bob Cryer and the way I work is very different today than when I first asked for his help. Bob guided me through a process that was intended to change a behavior. What happened was my value system that formed that behavior was challenged. This revealed the stumbling block and enabled me to make changes so that my work is more productive today. I carry his words of wisdom with me every day. I am forever grateful.”

Ericka Waidley, Executive Director, AccessOC

“Pat Kelly began his engagement with AccessOC many years ago as a coach for our new Executive Director. As a new organization the Executive Director had a lot on her plate and Pat was instrumental in assisting her design the infrastructure and develop strategic initiatives that would assure positive outcomes for AccessOC. As Pat continued to work with AccessOC he became “hooked” and agreed to be on the Advisory committee (when we were fiscally sponsored) and since 2013 has been a valuable member of the Board of Director’s. We are very fortunate to have Pat, who brings many years of experience in the health care industry, on our Board.

It was also a pleasure working with Larry Tucker from ECofOC on our annual Board and team retreat. Larry met with me and my Board chair to brainstorm ideas and structure the agenda for the retreat. My Board is small and I appreciated his flexibility in working with us and having several “back-up” plans depending on the attendance. He also was able to help us focus on our priorities and facilitated this discussion during the retreat. Larry was an invaluable resource for me and also facilitated a retreat that resulted in a realistic and achievable strategic plan. Thank you to ECofOC for providing this wonderful service to the non-profit community!”