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 others.
Sarah and I discuss how recognizing the signs of burnout—such as exhaustion and lack of fulfillment—can be the first step toward taking radical responsibility for your life.

By embracing mindfulness, intentional responses, and building a habit of gratitude, you can realign with your true self, rediscover joy, and ultimately enhance your leadership energy to positively impact your team and club members. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that combines emotional intelligence with practical strategies for a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Pick up Sara's book, The Balanced Life Blueprint, HERE

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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 attention to detail.

Navigating professional achievements and personal challenges is no small feat, especially when faced with a company bankruptcy during a financial crisis or family health crises. 

 We discuss the fluidity of work-life balance and how accepting life's inherent imbalance can lead to better harmony, drawing on advice from endurance coaches and personal anecdotes.

As member expectations evolve, so too must club management practices. We explore how creativity in hiring, offering diverse activities, and extensive renovations can invigorate a nearly 40-year-old golf club. From a $5.5 million golf course overhaul to an ambitious clubhouse renovation, this episode highlights the necessity of adaptability and continuous learning in the ever-changing landscape of club management. 

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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, a chance restaurant job ignited his passion for the industry, prompting a major career shift. Joe's story is one of resilience and transformation, underscoring the power of networking, lifelong friendships, and the vital role of CMAA events in shaping his professional journey. 

His return to Las Vegas as a CMAA chair—a full-circle moment from his first industry conference—highlights the importance of community and support in navigating this challenging field.

The conversation doesn't stop at personal stories. We zero in on actionable steps for fostering a more compassionate workplace, such as the creation of a sober support group for club managers. 
From LinkedIn posts to real-world meetings, Joe's initiative has provided a lifeline for many. We also explore alternative ways to support colleagues, like thoughtful non-alcoholic gifts, and emphasize the importance of mental health awareness. Join us for a powerful discussion that aims to transform how the hospitality industry addresses addiction and mental health challenges.

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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 managers face when seeking guidance from American conventions, all while navigating the more informal nature of their local associations.

Join us as we dive deep into the essentials of member vetting, crucial for preserving a club’s integrity and harmony. Seth shares international anecdotes from London, while Paul highlights the significance of meticulous vetting processes to prevent future issues. We tackle the complexities of expelling controversial members and the difficulties in gathering reliable information, particularly for international applicants. Gain a better understanding of how clubs in different regions approach governance and member vetting to maintain their esteemed reputations.

In this comprehensive episode, we also explore the evolving dynamics of club membership vetting. Learn about the importance of distinguishing vetting from recruiting functions, and the necessity of robust data retention policies to protect sensitive information. We delve into the role of Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) in modern investigative practices, drawing parallels with academic research methods. Whether you’re a club manager or simply intrigued by the mechanisms of exclusivity, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Don't miss out on this thorough exploration of club governance and member vetting practices across continents!

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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 and how tools like the RASCI matrix can demystify roles and responsibilities, ensuring smoother operations and stronger governance. We also delve into the delicate balance of confidence and humility in leadership, drawing from Ryan’s extensive experience to provide actionable advice for any leader looking to strengthen their approach.

We wrap up with insights into strategic planning, proper onboarding of board members, and the importance of internal PR campaigns to secure member support for significant projects. For more of Ryan's expertise and to learn about the RACI Matrix, head over to strategicclubsolutions.com or connect with him on LinkedIn.

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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 into navigating leadership roles within longstanding institutions. Discover how he blends modern trends and technological advancements to attract a younger crowd while maintaining a cost-efficient operation. 

From enhancing social offerings with top-tier sommeliers and mixologists to leveraging a fractional economy for specialized professional services, Jay reveals how external expertise can revolutionize the member experience and foster internal staff development. 

This episode is packed with actionable strategies and real-life examples. 

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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 55,000 people in finding their ideal clubs, particularly in the popular Sunbelt regions.

Curious about how clubs can maintain a steady pipeline of qualified leads? We unpack GLN's subscription-based program, which has received rave reviews from clubs of all sizes. With features like "Feature Club Friday" e-blasts and customized microsites, GLN ensures clubs stay visible and connected with prospective members 24/7. 

Listen as we explore how this innovative approach is a game-changer for membership directors, integrating seamlessly into their existing marketing strategies to boost membership and club visibility in a competitive landscape.

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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 qualities to land top-tier positions. With 2025 around the corner, discover why your LinkedIn profile might be your most powerful tool yet in showcasing your professional identity.

Listen to personal stories and valuable advice that stress the importance of hard work, a love for people, and maintaining a positive attitude over traditional education credentials. Learn how these elements, combined with a robust personal brand, pave the way for a thriving career in hospitality.

Tom Wallace emphasizes the need for confidence, consistency, and a clear set of non-negotiables. We also tackle the potential pitfalls of social media and the importance of maintaining a professional online presence. Learn how to communicate effectively with concise, logical messaging, and understand why brevity can be your ally in professional settings. 

This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you navigate the intricacies of personal branding and leadership in today's hospitality landscape.

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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 the line into discriminatory practices. We'll explore real-world cases, such as the Crumbley trials, to illustrate the necessity of understanding a potential member's character in protecting the club's reputation. This discussion is indispensable for anyone involved in the governance and management of private clubs, as it underscores the importance of aligning new members with the club's decorum policies, ensuring both legal safety and a positive environment for everyone.

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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 teams with insights that go beyond traditional hiring practices. Learn from personal experiences and the invaluable mentorship of Chris Hampton, as we discuss the importance of recruiting compassionate and genuinely hospitable individuals. Understand how we managed to hire exceptional mid-level managers without even advertising, leveraging the strength of connections and fostering a legacy of excellence.

Get ready to be entertained with the unique "Lakewood Pride bling" tradition that awards employees with a large, spinning chain for outstanding achievements. This motivating and fun initiative not only enhances staff morale but also creates a welcoming environment for club members and their families. Alfredo shares his wisdom and key lessons learned over his impressive career, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the hospitality industry. Don't miss out—like, share, and subscribe, and sign up for our newsletter at privateclubradio.com for the latest updates and exciting content.

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