Lori- it sounds like you are a very good leader and do not avoid the role of leader, even if it means ruffled feathers. I wish all meet-up groups had good leaders. I probably should try them out again. Are you the primary leader in your group or does everyone take turns at leading?

I have meet many "loose" groups out on the trail with members spread out all over and many "where's Joe?" comments. The weak members are left behind. Many of these are quite young (college students maybe?) without anyone appearing to be very experienced.