David Sweet’s journey from the luxury hotel world to the private club space is anything but typical—but his impact at Boca Woods shows what’s possible when a leader aligns people, purpose, and values. In this episode, David s...
Ever wondered why your club's racket department seems financially constrained? In this eye-opening episode, consultant and racket management expert Ed Shanaphy lifts the curtain on the numbers rarely discussed in polite club company. The financial anatomy of a racket department is more complex than…
What do private clubs and political campaigns have in common? Turns out… a lot more than you think. In this episode, Denny sits down with Charles “Chuck” Merriman, CCM. TRhe politically wired, quick-witted COO of San Diego Country Club whose journey from congressional campaign manager to club execu…
Work Hard, Be Kind, Pour the Wine. Today’s guest is Velecia Luckenbill and trust me, you’re gonna love her. She’s the Director of Food & Beverage at Colonial Country Club, a certified sommelier, and one of the most vibrant, d...
This one’s got heart, hustle, and some serious longevity. I’m joined by Salil Bokil—GM of Hollywood Golf Club down the Jersey Shore. He’s been there 18 years, and somehow built a team where no one leaves. I’m talking a chef who’s been there 17 years… a controller who’s clocked in for over 36. It’s …
Jeff Wilson, veteran club pro and longtime GM, shares insights from decades in club leadership including extraordinary service moments, cultural development, and strategies for successful interim management. • Once jumped int...
What do bourbon, mentorship, and kitchen chaos have in common? Kevin Rice. In this episode, we chat with Kevin Rice— ormer chef, current GM of Lexington Country Club, and certified executive bourbon steward—to talk about leading with flavor. They dive into what it takes to train young staff (even w…
You probably don’t plan for a fire in the supply closet. Heather Korte didn’t either. But when three stories of her clubhouse got soaked, smoked out, and stripped to the studs, she got to work. No panic. No pity. Just bold moves, creative thinking, and a serious amount of member love. Heather is th…
In this episode, we chat with Desi Speh, COO at Desert Highlands in Arizona. A guy who’s quietly redefining what club leadership can look like. Desi’s not the loudest voice in the room, but his impact is undeniable. From tur...
Forget everything you think you know about private clubs. At Monticello Motor Club, the luxury isn’t just on the track, it’s in every detail, every experience, every smile. And leading the charge is Ionel Porumb, a hospitality powerhouse whose journey from Romania to the C-suite is as inspiring as …
In this episode of the Private Club Radio Show , we roll up our sleeves and shine a spotlight on something most clubs think they’ve got handled—but probably don’t: what shows up when someone Googles your club . We walk you th...
Kevin Ehlert shares his journey from dishwasher to GM to consultant and certified coach, bringing a refreshing perspective on what leadership really looks like when you strip away the title, pressure, and 'always on' mentalit...
Samantha Sheffield is not your average CFO. She’s also the Assistant GM at Bay Colony Golf Club—and the rare finance leader who’s just as comfortable talking about spreadsheets as she is member experience and strategic vision...
Joe Smith Is Back And He’s Still Setting the Bar for Club Communication Joe’s not just a friend of the show he’s one of the most forward-thinking GMs out there when it comes to content, connection, and culture. In this episode, Joe Smith of Countryside Golf & Country Club joins us again to shar…
Golf pro. Road warrior. Culture shifter. GM. Rick Schultz has worn a lot of hats—and in this episode, he brings them all to the table. We explore Rick’s evolution from a 22-year-old tour hopeful to a private club GM overseeing a sprawling Oregon property with 27 holes, indoor tennis, pickleball, mi…
From wiping down ballroom walls as a kid to leading a thriving club community in the Lowcountry—Eric Bischofberger’s journey has come full circle. In this episode, I sat down with Eric Bischofberger, CCM , General Manager & C...
When it comes to club communication, consistency, clarity, and connection aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the foundation of everything. In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa Hansen , Director of Membership & Marketing at The C...
his one’s a blast. Jenna Jardin is the kind of leader who’s juggling everything—membership, events, communications, and full-tilt programming—at one of the most active and unique private clubs in the country: Beacon Hill Club. There’s no golf and no downtime. Just a massive outdoor rink, hundreds h…
What happens when the turnout is low, the plan isn’t working, and canceling the event feels like the easiest option? If you’re Chef Andrew Haapala , you pivot. You turn the dining room into a chef’s table. You bring the membe...
Most club professionals come from hospitality, golf, or business. Greg Surine’s path? A little more… creative. From radio host to live performer to working at Conan O’Brien, Greg has spent his entire career mastering the art ...
Some clubs operate year-round. Others? They pack a full year’s worth of hospitality into just six months—and that’s exactly what happens at Cedar Creek Club, where Hannah Bradford helps lead the charge. Hannah didn’t take the...
When Rachel Brown stepped into her role as Membership & Marketing Director at Evansville Country Club, she was ready to hit the ground running. What she didn’t expect? The world shutting down two weeks later. Instead of waiti...
Some people are great chefs. Some are great leaders. Matt Gilbert is both. As the Executive Chef at Medinah Country Club, Matt isn’t just running one of the most well-known kitchens in private clubs—he’s leading a team, creating unforgettable dining experiences, and setting a new standard for club …
This episode focuses on how emotional intelligence can redefine leadership within club management. Geoff Piva shares his personal journey and insights on navigating crises, the importance of mentorship, maintaining work-life ...