I sat down with Katy Murray, a brilliant HR leader and problem-solver who’s 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! 

Katy’s 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.

Katy’s 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.

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What does it take to throw a party for the ages? Yellowstone Country Club’s Michelle Polak and Caylin Cathey join us to share how they pulled off an unforgettable 75th-anniversary celebration. From honoring the club’s rich history by recreating the vibe of their iconic "Alibi" clubhouse to managing over 1,000 guests, they didn’t just throw a party—they created a legacy.

In this episode, we dive into the creative planning process, including fun features like food trucks, nostalgic décor, 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 club’s first female president.

Packed with inspiration, laughs, and practical event-planning tips, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

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In episode 408, Ed Ronan shares his one-of-a-kind approach to leadership that’s 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 it’s not just about big ideas. 
Ed dives into how he’s built an unbeatable club culture through strategic staff retreats, team development, and a relentless focus on innovation. He explains why asking “what if?” 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 management—or 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 “greener grass” 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 you’re a bulldog lover, you’ll love the connection here—because Ryan’s 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.

Don’t miss this one it’s 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.

You’ll hear Kyle’s powerful insights on leadership, like his mantra, “Inspect what you expect,” 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 you’re 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. Kyle’s passion for hospitality and leadership is contagious—don’t 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 she’s elevating member experiences with creative events like progressive dinners, speakeasies, and 900-guest New Year’s 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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We’re thrilled to welcome back Sarah Mueller—bestselling author, speaker, and emotional intelligence coach—to 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. You’ll hear her three essential questions for year-end reflection and discover why self-awareness and self-compassion are game-changers for growth.

Sarah’s practical wisdom and upbeat style will leave you inspired to reflect, recharge, and take on the new year with purpose. Plus, she’s offering listeners a free audio copy of her bestselling book, The Balanced Life Blueprint!

🎧 Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the best—tune 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 he’s blending the club’s 75-year history with fresh, forward-thinking ideas—from loosening dress codes and hosting lively game-day gatherings to creating spaces for Charlotte’s newest wave of young professionals.

We’ll explore Brett’s take on post-COVID shifts that city clubs are facing, how he’s meeting the needs of a fast-growing, diverse membership, and the big “What if?” scenarios shaping the club’s 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 today’s world. 

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