Men’s Council (monthly)
with Mike Lerner and Jef Szilagyi
The Men’s Council is a monthly gathering for men—a meaningful space to experience the unique energy that comes by being a part of an authentic council of men.
We know that many men in our community find themselves faced with isolation, unable to effectively share their thoughts, desires, uncertainties, and personal challenges.
Additionally, the wish men carry for real friendship and connection with other men is frequently blocked by outward pressures, lack of know-how, and matters of trust.
Men’s Council is an antidote to these difficulties. This group of men, with Mike and Jef’s guidance, will create a special space and a trusting community for men to share their lives and dreams, and investigate what their own desires and purposes are at this time.
Men’s Council will use the practice of deep listening, so we can tend to our well-being and energy. Leaning into old wisdom traditions, we will give one another the time and support to delve into what is holding us back and find the power to better create a life with more meaning, more energy, more connection.
Men’s Council Guides
Jef Szilagyi has an extensive background in faciliating circle work; including men’s circles, multicultural retreats, youth mentoring projects, and rites of passage guiding.
Jef is a practitioner of the Internal Family Systems approach to self-awareness and personal growth. He’s uses IFS practices with clients, helping them to grow in their lives and wisdom.
He’s excited to blend the wisdom of IFS, the support of a circle of men, and the power health and healing to the Men’s Council, allowing men to deepen in the road of life with know their authentic voice.
Mike Lerner is a chess grandmaster, at least from Jef’s point of view. He loves to jam on his guitar and open up his voice with friends. Mike is a elder who knows life’s contours—both the wonderous and the difficult.
Always listening and speaking from his heart, Mike is a man of many loves—family and friends are chief among them. He spent his working life as a dentist. Now retired, he focuses on giving his time and energy to the community through soulful projects like Stepping Stones and this here Men’s Council.
Mike has studied with medicine holder, Tom Pinkson for decades and has been a core member of the Wakan community witnessing the cycles of life unfold, playing his part with deep love.
Starts
Sep. 8th, 2026
Men’s Council Details
When: The 2nd Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:45 PM
Duration: 9/8/26 to 5/11/27 (10 months)
Location: Southern Marin - address provided with registration
Cohort: Limited to 12 adult men from all walks of life.
Fees: $1000 ($100 per session) - payment plans and sliding scale available.
Long time friends and collaborators, Jef Szilagyi and Mike Lerner.