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 strike the perfect balance between high-touch personal interactions and high-tech convenience. 

In a shift towards the future, explore how club amenities are evolving to cater to modern member expectations while preserving the social fabric that unites generations. We discuss the transition from fine dining to more casual, memorable dining experiences and the importance of accessibility to amenities. By leveraging commonalities among members and gathering consistent feedback through surveys, clubs can stay ahead of the curve. Lastly, celebrate a significant 14% increase in member loyalty and learn why obtaining feedback from former members is pivotal. For those hungry for more, don’t forget to access the detailed member perspectives report at ggapartners.com. Tune in for a wealth of strategies designed to elevate your club experience!

For more detailed insights, don't forget to check out the "Club Members Perspective" report at ggapartners.com.

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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 into fostering strong relationships within the club make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the hospitality industry.

Travel with us from the glitzy world of Los Angeles post-production to the storied clubs of Michigan, as I share my career journey that spans iconic venues like the Formosa Cafe and the Greek Theatre. Moving to Michigan brought new opportunities at prestigious spots like the Detroit Athletic Club and the Country Club of Detroit. The episode delves into the invaluable lessons learned from these experiences, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with regulars, reinvesting in the club experience, and maintaining a stellar reputation—an ethos I attribute to my mother's influential guidance.

Finally, we explore the impressive renovation projects initiated at the Country Club of Detroit in 2013, from converting an outdated snack bar into a standalone restaurant to the ambitious task of relocating a six-lane bowling alley below grade. Learn how these innovative changes have driven increased revenue and membership without sacrificing user experience. Craig's thoughtful approach to managing growth, member engagement, and staff development, coupled with personal stories and insights on career resilience, rounds out this enlightening discussion. Don't miss out on Craig's wisdom and practical tips for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry.

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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 operations. Get ready to learn about the essential qualities that make a chef indispensable in the private golf and country club scene.

This episode also explores the broader transformation of Indian Hills Country Club. Hear about the successful transition of an internal candidate to head chef and the profound impact of a $6 million renovation on membership growth. From new dining facilities to enhanced tennis courts and a state-of-the-art fitness center, find out how these upgrades, paired with a member-friendly reapplication process, have driven new memberships and brought back former members. Join us for an episode packed with valuable insights on club management, personal growth, and the thrilling challenges that come with the territory.

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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 intricacies of private club management, employment culture, and capital improvement trends.

Learn how she has navigated the dynamic environments of both historic and young clubs, tackling everything from innovative member programming to large-scale events. Audra sheds light on the importance of maintaining strong professional relationships and the full-circle moments that define a career in hospitality. 

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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? We’re taking a page from John Bender’s playbook in The Breakfast Club to tackle stress and keep things cool. This episode is packed with practical tips and a good dose of 80s nostalgia to help your club thrive. Don’t miss it!

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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 episode, we uncover the impressive evolution of von Stiehl, spotlighting its shift from sweet wines to high-end reds and the exciting new additions like a taste test tap system and a thriving cider taproom.

Discover the sustainable practices behind their distillery program, including the creation of grappa from leftover grape skins, and how AI-generated label designs are revolutionizing their branding strategy.

Anthony offers an insider's look at the winery's bold rebranding efforts and the launch of popular new cider flavors, promising an exciting future for von Stiehl Winery. Grab a glass and tune in for a toast to innovation and excellence in winemaking!

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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 skill set that’s crucial for maintaining smooth operations and fostering effective communication across all departments.

Jim's insights reveal how his multifaceted background enables him to navigate the complexities of club management with ease, ensuring that every aspect of the club runs like a well-oiled machine. He shares how these experiences have not only shaped his leadership style but have also instilled in him a deep understanding of the importance of teamwork and collaboration. This episode is more than just a discussion on club management—it’s a compelling narrative on the value of a well-rounded career and the profound impact of mentors who guide you along the way.

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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 her to maintain focus and calm in even the busiest times.

Maggie’s approach to leadership and mentorship is nothing short of inspiring. 
She believes in fostering a welcoming and supportive environment, especially when mentoring high school and college-aged staff. 
Listen as she discusses her strategies for shaping young employees into conscientious and capable individuals, emphasizing the importance of leading by example. Maggie provides invaluable advice on the significance of mental health, staying grounded, and ensuring that her team feels both valued and motivated.

If you're curious about innovations in club management, this episode is packed with fascinating insights. Maggie shares details about the enhanced culinary programs at the club, the focus on healthier food options, and the robust employee recognition initiatives that boost morale. From managing the high-energy environment of a beach club during peak times like the 4th of July, Maggie offers a comprehensive look at how positive leadership and wellness are transforming the hospitality industry. 

Tune in for a captivating conversation that promises to leave you inspired and equipped with practical tips for your own leadership journey.

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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 posts. Our conversation touches on the evolution of social media and the surprises that arise during membership screenings, illustrating the delicate balance between thorough vetting and unexpected findings.

Discover the permanence of online actions and the dual lives people lead as we delve into online investigations and personal profiles. From ghost accounts to anonymous platforms, Dan reveals how the hidden sides of individuals are exposed. Hear stories of secret accounts, such as a police chief's racist posts, and the impact of uncovering relentless online complainers. This episode underscores the value of detailed background checks in maintaining club harmony and preventing disruptions, showcasing the critical role of these investigations in protecting the club's community.

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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.

Listen to how professional development courses like BMI create unexpected bonds and lifelong friendships. Our guests share personal anecdotes about how their career paths intertwined and the importance of networking, mutual support, and resilience, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The camaraderie and shared experiences provide a compelling narrative on the power of professional relationships in achieving career goals.

For those aspiring to earn their CCM certification, this episode serves as a rich resource of practical advice and inspiration. Learn from Corey, James, and Stephanie as they offer tips on diligent study habits, the importance of forming supportive relationships, and embracing the journey with a positive mindset. This episode is not just about certification; it’s about fostering a culture of continuous growth, professional development, and community within the private club industry. 

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