
REF Orange County
Leaders Powered by Collective Intelligence
REF is a global Organization of peer advisory boards for business leaders, powered by collective intelligence
At the core of REF lies the Forum Group, a carefully curated peer advisory board where top business leaders connect, challenge, and grow together.
Business executive peer groups are structured forums where business leaders gather regularly to share insights, solve challenges, and support one another. These groups foster professional development, strategic growth, and valuable networking opportunities.
Unlike one-on-one coaching, peer groups offer multiple perspectives from seasoned executives who have faced similar challenges. Collective wisdom often provides more diverse and actionable insights, whereas consulting tends to be more prescriptive in nature.
o Gain fresh perspectives on business challenges from experienced peers
o Access trusted advice in a confidential environment
o Expand your network with like-minded professionals
o Improve decision-making through collective wisdom
o Enhance leadership skills and personal development
REF-OC is the Orange County chapter of the global REF organization. Ric Franzi is the Founder and has been partnered with the global REF organization since October 2007.
With over 30 years of experience in the CEO Peer Group industry, REF is a global organization of peer advisory boards for business leaders. Founded in La Jolla, CA., to build a better value proposition, REF created a unique half-day meeting model designed to provide our members with the most impact in less time. REF believes time is the most important asset a business owner has, and as such, their meetings are designed to keep the meeting time limited to a morning meeting. Learn more about here.



REF Orange County Events
Forums evolve from Peer Advisory Boards into Circles of Trust
Meet our Team in REF Orange County


Since 2007, Ric has been a guiding force for entrepreneurs and business leaders in Orange County, creating a space where growth is intentional, not overwhelming. His mission is simple: to help leaders focus on their businesses rather than being consumed by them.


Visionary entrepreneur who founded Rhythm with just $1,300 and grew it into a top digital agency, later acquired in 2019. With 26 years as CEO, he worked with major brands like Honda, Beats, and Allergan. Today, he advises leaders on branding, marketing, and executive strategy—blending business insight with Chinese energetic medicine.
REF Purpose is
Empowering Business Leaders to be a positive force in the world by accelerating their personal and business evolution.
CEO, Owner, President, or equivalent.
SMB: $5M-$30M in revenue.
Corporate: $30M-$300M in revenue.
Large Corporations: More than $300M in revenue.
C-Suite and upper management.
Corporate: $30M-$300M in revenue.
Large Corporations: More than $300M in revenue.
REF's OC Testimonials
REF Orange County Articles

REF-OC 5-Step Proven Process
Membership in a REF-OC peer group allows you to take your business to the next level through the power of collective …

Pioneering Healthcare Tech with Artificial Intelligence
Live REF Expert Insight recording.

Why Financial Executives Must Take a Leading Role in Artificial Intelligence Adoption for their Businesses
Insights from the Expert Insight “Artificial Intelligence for Financial Executives”.

Unlocking Efficiency: How AI Streamlined Operations at MAC Container Line
A REF Artificial Intelligence Case Study

Leveraging Chat GPT in Your Business and Personal Life
Check out the key ideas from our Expert Insight live session.