Testimonials

“Working with Darrah and The Direforza Group as my first executive coaching experience has been invaluable. Darrah helps provide clarity and confidence as I lead through a polycrisis, and she offered steady support navigating through a negative news campaign. Her on-call coaching through a dynamic board conversation showed me the value of having a trusted advisor who understands the complexity of leadership and equips you to face it with wisdom, perspective, and courage.”

John, CEO

“As newer member of my Executive Team, Darrah has enabled me to feel more comfortable finding my strategic voice. When selecting a coach, I was drawn to Darrah’s years of experience as a CEO of a large healthcare organization. Not only does she have the skills to be an effective coach, but she also has deep experience leading in complex environments. Darrah’s approachable and thoughtful style has allowed me to get to the root of problems quickly - and help me find the effective solutions.”

Marc, Chief Medical Officer 

“I worked with Darrah nearly 20 years ago when she was CEO of a healthcare organization. To this day, I am amazed at her ability to grasp the key issues at hand in complex situations, and then lead Board members, staff, and donors to the best possible outcomes.”

Bob, Non-Profit Consultant

“Since the earliest days of my first nonprofit senior leadership role, Darrah has been someone I can rely on as a trusted and empathetic advisor. By asking thoughtful questions about both the issues I’m dealing with and the broader organizational and personal context of the situations, she has helped me to identify pathways forward that serve both mission and team. Darrah also insightfully shares the wisdom and connections of the incredible network she has built over decades of intentional community-building and authentic leadership. Her joy and skill in connecting people who can strengthen meaningful work within and across sectors benefits our community deeply. I’m so grateful to be part of Darrah’s network of good.”

Laura, Nonprofit Executive Director

“Working with Darrah and TDG has been a transformative experience. Her ability to listen deeply, ask the right questions, and guide with both strategy and empathy has helped me gain clarity in my leadership and confidence in my next steps. Every session leaves me more grounded, focused, and inspired to take meaningful action.”

Griselda, Coaching Client

“Darrah does a remarkable job ensuring transparency, communication, and accessibility are top organizational priorities. She has a deep understanding of the complex business issues confronting non-profits as well as being well-versed in governance best practices.  She connects with people incredibly well and puts everyone at ease.”

Lisa, Corporate Board Leader

“Darrah’s skills and approach to leadership set her apart and make her an ideal strategic partner for any individual or company navigating change and the pressures of effective leadership.”

James, Finance Leader and Board Member  

“The wisdom and talent Darrah bring to solving problems and supporting leaders creates an environment where everyone can thrive. She helps people navigate challenges with confidence and provides the tools for them to lead with empathy and strategy.”

Amy, Community Leader and Philanthropist

“As one of San Diego, Imperial and Riverside Counties’ leading nonprofit executives for nearly two decades, Darrah’s skillset blends a particularly unique and effective combination of brilliant strategist, compassionate, inclusive, bold, and determined leader. Darrah is recognized and celebrated, regionally and nationally, as a calm, yet resolute force for good; a true delight to partner with and know.”

Linda, Civic/Social Leader

“I have the deepest admiration for Darrah as an extraordinary leader who seamlessly blends heart and head in everything she does. Her thoughtfulness and insight shine through in her leadership, as she balances strategic vision with care and compassion. She consistently considers the bigger picture while remaining deeply attuned to the people she serves. Her wisdom is evident in the thoughtful questions she asks and the sound, balanced guidance she provides. Whether navigating complex decisions or offering a supportive ear, Darrah’s clarity and calm presence inspire confidence in those around her.”

Jennifer, Organizational Effectiveness Expert

“Working with Darrah was incredibly grounding and impactful as we welcomed a new board chair. Her intuitive approach to board development helped us establish a strong foundation and shared language that continues to guide how our leadership team and board chair collaborate today. As a former CEO, she brings experience, empathy, and strategic insight that make her an invaluable partner to both executives and board leaders.”

Lena Beth, Governance Leader 

“This was my first foray into coaching, and I chose Darrah because she has actually led at scale—expanding an organization dramatically while navigating complex, politically charged environments. I needed that level of lived experience to help me strengthen my executive team and resolve the intra-team conflict that was slowing us down. Darrah brought clarity, insight, and steady leadership to the process. Her coaching helped me become a more grounded, strategic CEO and helped my team rebuild trust and move forward together.”

Jennifer, Founder and CEO

“Working with Darrah has been one of the best investments I've ever made. She's not afraid to have the tough conversations, and her questions always pushed me to dig deeper. Her insight helped me take concrete actions that produced results — and shifted how I lead. I now move forward with clarity, purpose, and momentum.”

Iris, Coaching + Executive Advising Client

"Your coaching, guidance, compassion, and steady perspective have been invaluable to me during what has been one of the most challenging periods of my Board service. You consistently helped me stay grounded in governance, encouraged me to focus on structure rather than emotion, and reminded me to approach difficult situations with both clarity and grace. I am deeply grateful for that.”

Board Leader