Episodes

In this episode, we sit down with LuAnn Giovannelli CCM CAM, CMAA Fellow & GM/COO Bay Colony Community Association. a trailblazer in the private club industry and one of the first female General Managers in the country. With over 30 years of experience, LuAnn reflects on her rise in a male-dominated field, sharing how she broke barriers while staying true to herself. Her guiding principle? “There’s no right way to do the wrong thing.” This mantra has not only shaped her leadership style but has ...

Ready to elevate your club’s next tennis retreat to the next level? Expert Scott Colebourne from Tennis Resorts Online joins us to share his wealth of knowledge on crafting the ultimate tennis getaway for your members. With over 25,000 user reviews backing his expertise, Scott provides practical, actionable advice on selecting top-rated tennis resorts and tailoring experiences to fit the unique needs of your club. Discover his four essential tips that can help you curate an unforgettable tennis ...

How important is club culture and social interaction to private club members today? Join us on the Private Club Radio Show as we sit down with Eric Bray from GGA Partners to uncover the findings of an extensive study on member perspectives and preferences. We reveal how younger members' emotional bond with their clubs often outweighs considerations of cost, and why amenities and top-notch service levels are more critical than ever. Discover how the integration of technology is helping clubs stri...

What can the Country Club of Detroit's historical journey teach us about blending tradition with modernity? Join us as we sit down with Craig Cutler, the club's General Manager, to uncover the club's fascinating transformation from its 1897 inception to its recent renovations. Craig offers a captivating look at how the club has managed to preserve its rich heritage while integrating contemporary amenities, ensuring a balanced experience for both long-time members and newcomers. His insights i...

Food and beverage success insights from Nicholas Gora, General Manager of Indian Hills Country Club in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Join us as we dive into Nicholas's journey of overcoming the challenge of finding the right chef, a quest that saw him navigating through four chefs in six years. Discover how the perfect culinary leader led to a remarkable 40% increase in business, all through a blend of culinary prowess and the ability to connect with club members while understanding the business side of ...

Meet Audra Lucas, the general manager of Shelter Harbor Golf Club, whose unique career was inspired by her grandfather, a long-standing PGA member. Audra shares her compelling journey, from her initial passion for baking to becoming a key leader in the private club industry. She delves into her leadership style, influenced by her family's legacy, emphasizing coaching, mentoring, and creating a performance-driven culture. Audra's experiences offer invaluable insights for anyone interested in the ...

Ever think 80s pop culture could level up your club? We’re diving into it with Chris Clews. From leadership to member engagement, Chris shows how iconic 80s elements can inject fresh energy into your club, making it more vibrant and successful. Get ready to see how characters like Spicoli from Fast Times and Lloyd Dobler from Say Anything can inspire a more fun, inclusive atmosphere at your club. It’s all about turning everyday interactions into unforgettable moments. And when things get tough...

Join us as Anthony Billwin, a seasoned hospitality professional, shares his compelling journey from managing prestigious hotels and country clubs, to becoming an innovator at von Stiehl Winery in Wisconsin. Anthony navigates us through his career shift just before the COVID-19 pandemic and the transformative developments at the winery, including the introduction of a distillery and a cidery, reflecting his unyielding passion for quality and creativity in the wine and spirits industry. In this e...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jim Miller, PGA, CCM, General Manager at Sonnenalp Club, who takes us on a journey through his remarkable career in the private golf and country club industry. From his early days as a back waiter to his current role as a leading club manager, Jim’s story is a testament to the power of varied experiences and the invaluable role of mentorship. His unique career path, which includes roles as a line cook and head golf professional, has equipped him with a diverse sk...

Discover how to transform your leadership approach and create a positive work culture with insights from Maggie Berrigan, the dynamic Beach Club Manager at Westchester Country Club. Maggie dives into her fascinating career journey, sharing stories from her early days in restaurants and private clubs to her time at Augusta National Golf Club during the iconic Masters Tournament. You'll learn how her decade-long commitment to teaching yoga has profoundly influenced her management style, enabling ...

Gain exclusive insight into how thorough background checks prevent problematic individuals from infiltrating elite circles with Dan Klemek, Director of Operations at Kennis / Membervetting Dan shares his journey from aspiring federal agent to spearheading comprehensive investigations that safeguard club communities and reputations. Brace yourself for some astonishing revelations as we dive into the complexities of uncovering hidden histories, from shocking affiliations to forgotten social media...

A behind the sceens look at achieving the prestigious Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation with insights from industry professionals Stephanie Peters, James Creamer, and Corey Melroy. Their stories of dedication, perseverance, and collaboration offer valuable lessons for anyone aiming to advance their career in the private golf and country club sector. They recount their journey, including the rigorous preparation process and the profound benefits that come with this professional milestone. ...

In our latest episode with Sarah Mueller, an emotional intelligence expert, trainer, and coach, reveals her own transformative journey from burnout to balance. Learn how emotional intelligence can be a game-changer, helping you address emotional baggage, live authentically, and challenge those deep-seated beliefs that lead to overworking and neglecting self-care. We also tackle the prevalent issue of burnout among private club managers who are often caught in the relentless cycle of pleasing o...

What if starting as a 15-year-old valet without a driver’s license could lead to becoming the General Manager of a prestigious golf and country club? Join us as we unravel the incredible journey of Joe Smith on the Private Club Radio Show. Joe's story is a masterclass in leadership, perseverance, and the value of continuous learning. We'll also hear from Joe Smith, whose rapid ascent from parking cars to managing food and beverage services underscores the transformative power of dedication and ...

Ever wondered what it's like to navigate the high-octane world of hospitality while battling personal demons? Joe Mendez, CMAA chair, joins us to share his raw, unfiltered journey through addiction and sobriety within the hospitality industry. Joe gives a candid account of his experiences and the urgent need for open conversations and support networks. Joe's path to becoming a renowned figure in hospitality is anything but conventional. Initially an accounting major and auto mechanic,...

Ever wondered how private clubs maintain their exclusivity and reputation? This episode promises to uncover the secrets behind effective member vetting practices with UK investigative journalist Seth Thevoz and member vetting expert Paul Dank. We kick off by contrasting club management practices between the US and Europe, focusing on the invaluable role of thorough background checks and the influence of data protection laws. Our guests share captivating insights into the challenges UK club manag...

Ever wondered how to effectively manage a board that frequently changes members? This episode takes you through tried-and-true methods for building robust relationships with board members, featuringRyan Doerr, President of Strategic Club Solutions. Ryan brings his expertise to our discussion, sharing practical strategies for thorough preparation, managing up, and engaging key stakeholders like the president and executive committee. Learn why boards often fall into the trap of micromanagement a...

Starting his career as a busboy and climbing to become a key leader in the private club industry, Jay Hingsbergen, the General Manager of the University Club of Cincinnati, shares his incredible journey and the invaluable lessons he has learned along the way. We dive into the resurgence of city clubs and the intricate art of creating successful programming that captivates members, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and long-term dedication in this unique field. Jay brings fresh insights ...

Discover how a groundbreaking algorithm is transforming the world of private golf clubs! Jason Becker joins us to reveal how Golf Life Navigators is revolutionizing membership matchmaking by aligning clubs with members who share similar preferences and needs. Inspired by the success of dating algorithms, GLN's tool enhances club culture and reduces attrition rates, providing unparalleled exposure for clubs nationwide. With an impressive track record, Golf Life Navigators has already assisted 55...

Crafting a leadership brand is more than just a buzzword—it's about executive presence, storytelling, and ethical clarity. Ever wondered how to stand out in the competitive world of hospitality, particularly in the exclusive private club sector? This episode promises to unlock the secrets of personal branding with insights from Tom Wallace from KKW. We dive into the essence of what makes professionals like chefs, CFOs, and leaders unique, and how they can convey their singular qu...

Join us as we sit down with Paul Dank from MemberVetting.com to uncover the crucial balance between maintaining high standards and ensuring a welcoming, inclusive environment for all members. We'll demystify common fears surrounding stringent vetting practices and clarify how transparency and fairness can help clubs avoid potential legal issues while fostering a secure community. Paul Dank shares valuable insights into how clubs can articulate their reasons for member denial without crossing th...

This episode is a doosey and we have the wonderful Alfredo Hildebrandt, General Manager and COO of Lakewood Country Club. Discover how honesty, a fun yet productive work atmosphere, and choosing the right boss can transform your career. Alfredo's inspiring journey from the hotel industry to a leading role in private clubs is packed with valuable insights and practical advice, emphasizing the power of mentorship and strategic career moves. Explore the art of building world-class hospitality team...

Ever wondered how to transform your golf or country club's online presence from dated and drab to sleek and sophisticated? Join us as we sit down with Danielle Chavez, founder of Club Design Studio, to uncover the secrets of modernizing graphic design for elite private clubs. Say goodbye to the clip art of yesteryear and embrace contemporary aesthetics with actionable tips for redesigning websites, landing pages, and digital assets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in upscale...

Ever wondered what it takes to orchestrate a seamless experience at one of the most iconic magic clubs in the world? Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey Hervé Lévy, CCM, CCE, the mastermind behind the operations of the Magic Castle. From his beginnings at the Griffin Club, where he led a $25 million renovation, to his current role as General Manager and Chief Operating Officer at the Academy of Magical Arts, Irv shares the secrets and strategies that keep the magic alive for 550 nightl...