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What does it take to pull off events that members talk about all year? Just ask Sandra Petti, Chief of Staff and Membership Director at Nashawtuc Country Club. Sandra is a pro at creating experiences that bring families together, keep members engaged, and make everyone feel like VIPs.
In this episode, Sandra pulls back the curtain on how she plans and executes everything from intimate dinners to massive events like Santa Brunch (spoiler: there were two Santas!). We get into how she balances creativity with practicality, handles curveballs during events, and keeps her team motivated to deliver at the highest level.
Youâll hear:
How Sandra brings fresh ideas to long-standing traditions.The little details that take a good event to unforgettable.Tips for fostering a family-friendly, welcoming vibe at your club.Sandraâs passion for people and knack for organization will leave you fired up to bring your clubâs events to the next level.
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I sat down with Katy Murray, a brilliant HR leader and problem-solver whoâs redefining what it means to lead in private clubs.
She's currently at Army Navy Country Club and She's also the host of The Ginger Biz Podcast, make sure you check it out!
Katyâs journey from event planning to HR management is full of lessons on building strong teams, tackling challenges with creativity, and delivering seamless member experiences.In this episode, we dive into:
Why clear communication is the ultimate leadership tool.How Katy balances empathy with structure to solve tough problems.Creative solutions for staffing seasonal employees and managing busy seasons.Tips for building consistency and connection in clubs with or without HR departments.Katyâs perspective will leave you inspired and equipped with actionable ideas to enhance your leadership and strengthen your team.
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Passion Graham returns to share her remarkable story of transformation sparked by profound personal challenges, including a stroke and her mother's accident. Her journey led her to reassess her life's purpose and establish Passionate Productions, redefining her understanding of leadership and self-care. Hear how stepping back empowered her team and allowed them to flourish in her absence, underscoring the true measure of impactful leadership.
We also delve into the universal theme of embracing failure as a catalyst for growth. Through personal tales of unspoken ideas and missed opportunities, we uncover the power of overcoming fear and taking risks. These stories highlight the importance of authenticity and visibility, especially for those who feel overlooked. By fostering an environment that encourages every voice, we can all contribute to a culture where everyone feels empowered to express themselves fully and thrive. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with laughter, insights, and the motivation to pursue your true calling.Follow us on the socials
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What does it take to throw a party for the ages? Yellowstone Country Clubâs Michelle Polak and Caylin Cathey join us to share how they pulled off an unforgettable 75th-anniversary celebration. From honoring the clubâs rich history by recreating the vibe of their iconic "Alibi" clubhouse to managing over 1,000 guests, they didnât just throw a partyâthey created a legacy.
In this episode, we dive into the creative planning process, including fun features like food trucks, nostalgic dĂŠcor, and a live band that brought generations of members together. Michelle and Caylin also reveal how they tackled logistical challenges unique to their Montana location, turning limitations into opportunities.
Beyond the big bash, we explore the heart of Yellowstone CC, its commitment to member engagement, its welcoming culture, and its focus on fostering long-term relationships both with members and staff.
Plus, hear how this year marked a historic milestone with the clubâs first female president.Packed with inspiration, laughs, and practical event-planning tips, this is an episode you donât want to miss!
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In episode 408, Ed Ronan shares his one-of-a-kind approach to leadership thatâs equal parts creativity, strategy, and adventure. Over 35 years, Ed has redefined what a private club can be. Adding zip lines, mountain bike trails, and even custom woodworking projects to enhance the member experience.
But itâs not just about big ideas.
Ed dives into how heâs built an unbeatable club culture through strategic staff retreats, team development, and a relentless focus on innovation. He explains why asking âwhat if?â is critical for growth, how he balances bold moves with sound financial decisions, and why investing in your people is the smartest move a club can make.From scuba dives to staff bonding to making members feel at home, this episode is packed with humor, inspiration, and actionable insights for anyone in club managementâor leadership in general.
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What does it take to stay at the top of your game for 20 years in the same club? Ryan Brennan, GM at Manasquan River Golf Club, spills the secrets! From mentorship lessons that shaped his career to balancing family life with the nonstop world of club management, this episode dives into it all.
Ryan shares how he turned âgreener grassâ offers into long-term loyalty, the perks of a 10-minute commute, and why collaboration and culture are at the heart of a thriving club. Oh, and if youâre a bulldog lover, youâll love the connection hereâbecause Ryanâs all about those lovable wrinkly pups.
Packed with wisdom, humor, and a few stories about managing a clubhouse that dates back to 1776, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in hospitality or leadership.
Donât miss this one itâs got legacy, mentorship, and a dash of bulldog charm!
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Joe Trauger of the NCA breaks down the most comprehensive economic impact study ever done on private clubs, and the numbers are staggering. $156 billion in total economic impact, $32 billion in revenue, and 573,000 employees nationwide. We cover how clubs contribute to their local communities, why 77% operate as member-owned nonprofits, and what these findings mean for tax policy and real estate markets. Plus, we look ahead at 2025 challenges and why this report is a game changer for the industry!
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In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Kyle Hillhouse, who turned an H2B visa opportunity into a thriving career in the private club industry. Kyle shares his firsthand experience of navigating cultural shocks, adapting to life in America, and climbing the ranks from server to Director of Operations.
Youâll hear Kyleâs powerful insights on leadership, like his mantra, âInspect what you expect,â and his advice for building meaningful relationships that can transform careers. He also sheds light on the emotional side of hospitality, emphasizing the importance of treating H2B team members like family and creating a supportive club culture.
Whether youâre a club professional looking to better understand the H2B program or someone curious about how international talent shapes the club industry, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and inspiring stories. Kyleâs passion for hospitality and leadership is contagiousâdonât miss it!
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Gracie Humbert is shaking up the private club world with bold ideas and a relentless drive for excellence. In this episode, she dives into her journey from discovering clubs at a job fair to leading food and beverage innovation at the Quarry Beach Club. Gracie shares how sheâs elevating member experiences with creative events like progressive dinners, speakeasies, and 900-guest New Yearâs Eve blowouts. She also reflects on lessons from hurricane recovery, her time in Ireland, and the power of mentorship. This is all about pushing boundaries, building community, and creating unforgettable moments for members!
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Weâre thrilled to welcome back Sarah Muellerâbestselling author, speaker, and emotional intelligence coachâto help us finish the year strong and gear up for an amazing 2025. Sarah has worked with countless leaders and private clubs, sharing her expertise in emotional intelligence, leadership, and creating a life you truly love.
In this episode, she walks us through celebrating wins, learning from challenges, and setting bold, meaningful goals. Youâll hear her three essential questions for year-end reflection and discover why self-awareness and self-compassion are game-changers for growth.
Sarahâs practical wisdom and upbeat style will leave you inspired to reflect, recharge, and take on the new year with purpose. Plus, sheâs offering listeners a free audio copy of her bestselling book, The Balanced Life Blueprint!
đ§ Donât miss this chance to learn from one of the bestâtune in now!
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Brett Curley, General Manager of the Charlotte City Club, dives into his ambitious vision for transforming the traditional city club experience into a vibrant social and community hub. Brett shares how heâs blending the clubâs 75-year history with fresh, forward-thinking ideasâfrom loosening dress codes and hosting lively game-day gatherings to creating spaces for Charlotteâs newest wave of young professionals.
Weâll explore Brettâs take on post-COVID shifts that city clubs are facing, how heâs meeting the needs of a fast-growing, diverse membership, and the big âWhat if?â scenarios shaping the clubâs future, including potential expansions and mergers. He also opens up about building a thriving staff culture, his dedication to professional growth, and the new roles city clubs play as safe, trusted spaces in todayâs world.
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In this episode, we chat with Anahi Perez, clubhouse manager at North Shore Country Club, about her incredible journey from beverage cart attendant to powerhouse club leader. Anahiâs all about big ideas and making magic happenâlike turning the basement into a haunted house and finally getting real reindeer for Christmas! She shares her passion for creating unforgettable member experiences and building a culture that feels like family. Anahi also opens up about how strategic marketing (MarCom) can transform a club, why a happy, balanced team makes all the difference, and why sheâs a big believer in taking risks and getting creative. Tune in for a fun, inspiring conversation packed with tips and stories to elevate any club experience!
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Welcome to the 400th episode of Private Club Radio! Weâre celebrating this incredible milestone by taking you back through some of the most insightful and memorable moments in the showâs history. In this special âBest Ofâ episode, host Denny Corby revisits highlights from our most popular guests as they share hard-earned lessons on culture, leadership, mentorship, and the keys to success in the private club industry.
This episode is packed with essential takeaways on everything from building strong team cultures to mastering email marketing and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Hereâs who youâll hear from:â˘Casey Smith (Ep. 389) on why culture drives success, even more than strategy
â˘Alfredo Hildebrandt (Ep. 364) on choosing the right leader over the right title
â˘Passion Graham (Ep. 325) on diversity as a powerful driver of innovation
â˘Max Orland (Ep. 307) on the value of inclusive education for a richer club environment
â˘Paul Dank from Kennis Member Vetting (Ep. 356) on the surprising risks of âghost accountsâ
â˘Joe Smith (Ep. 372) on how employee experience shapes member satisfaction
â˘Jay Schwedelson (Ep. 342) on email marketing strategies for boosting engagement
â˘Billy Panagiotopoulos (Ep. 340) on the importance of creating spaces that value staff
â˘LuAnn Giovannelli (Ep. 385) on how work-life balance and flexibility are changing club management
â˘Kevin Daniel Lalumiere (Ep. 391) on mentorship and developing future leaders
â˘Tom Wallace (Ep. 366) on building a standout personal brand
â˘Audra Lucas (Ep. 380) on her âcoachâ style of leadership and inspiring team performance
Thank you to all our guests, listeners, and partners who have made these 400 episodes possible. Hereâs to 400 more! đď¸
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Join us as Mark Rickell, VP of Sales at Club Car, shares how Club Car is pushing boundaries in golf cart innovation. Get an inside look at the Urban EV and other next-gen vehicles set to transform club transportation. Mark dives into new tech for fleet management, providing clubs with smarter control and efficiency, and gives a preview of Club Carâs presence at the PGA Show. Hear about Club Carâs sponsorship of the Solheim Cup and their commitment to fair competition, including efforts with the International Trade Commission to combat price dumping. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the changing world of golf carts and what Club Car is doing to lead the charge.
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In this episode, we sit down with Chelsie Foltz, who went from working in food & beverage to leading membership and communications at Vasari Country Club. Sheâs all about balancing a busy family life with an equally dynamic role in the club world. Chelsie shares how she made the jump, why sheâs passionate about creating great member experiences, and how sheâs built a supportive culture with her team and board.
If youâre curious about navigating career shifts, advocating for yourself, or just looking for fresh ideas on member engagement, Chelsieâs story has plenty of inspiration (and real talk) to offer. Donât miss it!
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We sit down with our good friend Paul Bovenzi, GM at Berkshire Country Club, for a deep dive into creative club management. From adapting to COVID-19 with inventive community services to rolling out monthly menus that keep members excited, Paul shares his innovative approach to making a club feel like home.
Tune in to hear about Berkshireâs latest projects, Paul's take on mentorship, and how heâs tackling industry challenges with fresh ideas and a commitment to the community.Follow us on the socials
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What does it take to excel in the challenging world of private club management while balancing the roles of a dedicated mother and high-achieving athlete? Meridith Picarelli-Khattar, CCM, CCE Assistant General Manager at Chevy Chase Club, opens up about her journey, revealing the art of juggling these demanding roles with grace and insight. Listen as Meredith uncovers her personal strategies for effective time management and the importance of flexibility in the hospitality industry, sharing how coaching has been a transformative force in her leadership path. Whether you're navigating the unpredictable world of club management or seeking inspiration to maintain an active lifestyle amidst lifeâs chaos, Meredithâs approach offers a fresh perspective.
In an industry notorious for long hours, achieving work-life balance becomes a critical skill rather than a lofty ideal. We explore this crucial topic, discussing how leaders can foster healthier expectations within their teams and the diverse career paths available in private clubs beyond the traditional food and beverage roles. Drawing from her experiences teaching at universities and engaging in professional coaching, this episode highlights the avenues for personal and professional growth, particularly for women in hospitality. Prepare to explore the intersection of leadership, lifestyle, and professional development with insights that could redefine your career trajectory in the private club sector.Follow us on the socials
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We sit down with Dana Cancellaro, the dynamic Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of Crestmont Country Club. Dana shares her incredible journey, from working in sales and hospitality to becoming a trailblazer in the private club industry. We dive into her personal and professional experiences as an openly gay club manager, discussing the challenges and triumphs of fostering inclusivity and equity in a traditionally exclusive space.
Dana also reveals the pivotal moments in her career, including how embracing her authentic self led to major breakthroughs in her leadership style. She offers valuable insights on handling difficult members, the importance of mentorship, and the power of small changes that can make a big impact. Whether you're a club management veteran or just starting out, Danaâs story is full of inspiration, humor, and practical advice for navigating the evolving world of private clubs.
Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with leadership lessons, real-world advice, and a lots of laughs along the way!Follow us on the socials
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Weâre joined by Paul Landon, founder of Magnolia League, a menâs skincare brand designed specifically for active men, like golfers and outdoor enthusiasts. Paul shares his journey from dealing with bad skin to creating a clean, premium skincare line thatâs perfect for private clubs.
We discuss how clubs can elevate their wellness offerings by incorporating high-quality skincare products into locker rooms and pro shops, and why clean skincare is essential for protecting skin from the sun and other elements.
Paul explains the harmful chemicals in typical skincare products and how Magnolia League provides a better alternative for menâs skin health.Want to try Magnolia League? Click đ here đ for 10% off your first order!
If your club is interested in offering Magnolia League and wants free samples, email us at [email protected].Follow us on the socials
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In this episode, Colin Burns shares his behind-the-scenes journey of organizing the U.S. Open and what it takes to lead through high-pressure situations. He dives into the power of club retreats for building stronger teams, creating collaboration, and solving big challenges. Colin also highlights the incredible work of the Metropolitan Club Foundation, raising millions to support education and club employees in need. Plus, youâll hear about his passion for the Gladney Cup, a charity event supporting adoption, and the life-changing stories behind it. Packed with leadership insights and inspiring moments, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the private club world!
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