Leading the North

The Executive Director Peer Cohort

You don't have to carry the weight of your organization alone. Join an exclusive, 5-person cohort designed to sharp-focus your strategy, build your leadership confidence, and connect you with peers who understand the unique reality of leading in Northern Minnesota.

Reserve Your Spot

What is Leading the North?

Leadership at the top can be isolating—especially in rural, resource-constrained environments. Designed specifically for mid-level Executive Directors in Northern Minnesota, this six-month peer cohort provides a dedicated, confidential space to build confidence, sharpen leadership skills, and cultivate meaningful relationships with fellow directors who truly understand your reality.

Program Structure and Experience

  • Every session, one director dives deep into a pressing organizational challenge. The cohort collaborates to ask targeted questions, offer strategic recommendations, and provide practical support.

  • Following your dedicated deep-dive, the cohort checks in during the next session to support your progress and keep you accountable to your action plan. Every participant gets one full session focused on their organization.

  • Each 3-hour meeting reserves dedicated time to master specific leadership traits with actionable guidance you can apply immediately to your board, staff, and community.

  • Beyond the deep dives, every session offers time for each participant to share wins, immediate updates, and real-time advice.

Schedule and Format

  • Dates: Second Friday of each month, January through June

  • Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM CST

  • Location: Online via Google Meet

  • Cap: Strictly limited to 5 participants to ensure deep engagement and trust

Investment

  • Early Bird Rate: $675 (Apply by December 1)

  • Standard Rate: $750

  • Invoices are issued upon application approval and must be paid prior to the first session. A waiting list will open once all 5 spots are filled.

Led by Someone Who Has Been in the Trenches

Facilitated by Brandon Mustful of Mustful Strategic Consulting. With 11 years leading Great River Rescue in Bemidji, two years with Northwoods Habitat for Humanity, and current leadership at Kinship of the Park Rapids Area, Brandon understands rural nonprofit leadership firsthand. Combined with experience in Minneapolis, Washington D.C., Bemidji, Park Rapids, rural West Virginia, and Paraguay, this program bridges high-level strategic vision with the realities of small-town, resource-limited operations.

  • Brandon has a real talent for facilitating meaningful discussion and keeping everyone focused on the big picture.

    Becky Bentfield, Bemidji Area Chamber of Commerce

Secure Your Spot

To secure your spot, complete the brief interest form here. Once received, Brandon will reach out with a welcome email and invoice details.