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
Events
Forums evolve from Peer Advisory Boards into Circles of Trust
Meet our Team in REF Orange County
Ric Franzi
Partner & Forum Leader
Partner & Forum Leader
Ric Franzi
Orange County, California
About
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.
Craig Cooke
Forum Leader
Forum Leader
Craig Cooke
Orange County, California
About
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.
The value of every forum meeting lies in the enriching effect of members diversity of perspectives in giving and receiving feedback of their peers.
Requirements:
CEO, Owner, President, or equivalent.
Qualifying company criteria:
SMB: $5M-$30M in revenue.
Corporate: $30M-$300M in revenue.
Large Corporations: More than $300M in revenue.
The value of every forum meeting lies in the enriching effect of members diversity of perspectives in giving and receiving feedback of their peers.
Requirements:
C-Suite and upper management.
Qualifying company criteria:
Corporate: $30M-$300M in revenue.
Large Corporations: More than $300M in revenue.
REF's OC Testimonials
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“Ric Franzi's REF-OC CEO peer groups are exceptional. His energy, insight, and commitment to lifelong learning create a unique and valuable executive community.”
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“Being part of Ric Franzi’s REF-OC peer group has been invaluable. Each monthly session offers fresh insights, clarity, and strategic focus for my business.”
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“Engaging with group Members in our monthly meetings often leads to meaningful discussions about relatable topics that I can immediately apply in my business.”
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“Being part of REF has given me access to a community with the most amazing group of leaders and executives across the world.”
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“Joining Ric Franzi’s REF-OC was a game-changer. I found a community of genuine entrepreneurs who openly share their experiences so we can all learn and grow together.”
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“Ric Franzi leads a transformative REF community in Orange County. As a master facilitator, he consistently provides value. I've been a proud member for over 8 years.”
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“Ric Franzi's REF-OC groups have been instrumental in my growth. His leadership and connections have significantly expanded my professional network.”
REF Orange County Articles
Value Proposition
REF-OC 5-Step Proven Process
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Live REF Expert Insight recording.
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Economics & Finances
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”.
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Unlocking Efficiency: How AI Streamlined Operations at MAC Container Line
A REF Artificial Intelligence Case Study
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Innovation, Agility & Technology
Leveraging Chat GPT in Your Business and Personal Life
Check out the key ideas from our Expert Insight live session.
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Ready to reach the next level?
Start a conversation with REF Orange County