Private Club Radio Show

Some people are great chefs. Some are great leaders. Matt Gilbert is both . As the Executive Chef at Medinah Country Club, Matt isn’t just running one of the most well-known kitchens in private clubs—he’s leading a team, creating unforgettable dining experiences, and setting a new standard for club cuisine. But beyond the accolades, the high-pressure events, and the five-star menus, Matt is just a...

This episode focuses on how emotional intelligence can redefine leadership within club management. Geoff Piva shares his personal journey and insights on navigating crises, the importance of mentorship, maintaining work-life balance, and leading with empathy.  • Exploring the role of emotional intelligence in club management  • Lessons learned during the COVID-19 crisis  • Transforming Needham Gol...

Andrew Streffs shares his journey from restaurants to private clubs and emphasizes the importance of personalization in enhancing member experiences. He discusses the balance between tradition and innovation in club management while providing insights on building a strong culture and engaging members during renovations.  • Discussing Andrew's journey in hospitality  • Importance of personaliz...

This episode explores the inspiring journey of Sam Ohnesorge , the Director of Food and Beverage at Erin Hills, who transitioned from a musical theater major to a leading figure in the golf hospitality scene. We delve into Erin Hills' unique "member for a day" experience, the importance of personalized service, and the preparations for hosting prestigious events like the US Women’s...

Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio Instagram Private Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

This episode highlights key insights from the CMA World Conference, emphasizing the importance of member experiences, safety protocols, and innovative management solutions. Attendees shared valuable knowledge about enhancing club operations through networking and creative perspectives. • Key takeaways from Marcom session on branding  • Importance of member experience in referrals  • Safety in club...

What happens when 3,000 industry professionals gather to share laughs, knowledge, and a hearty meal? Experience the infectious energy and camaraderie of the CMAA World Conference in Tampa with me, Denny Corby. From an impromptu dinner with 19 club managers to insightful sessions packed with strategies for navigating identity and mental health, this episode offers a unique peek into the vibrant wor...

The episode features Tyler Bloom , from Bloom Consulting Partners ,  a leader in golf course management and consulting, discussing how he is reshaping workforce development in private golf clubs. With a focus on mentorship and youth apprenticeship programs, he highlights innovative strategies to attract and retain talent in the industry.  • Tyler’s journey from golf course maintenance to consultin...

Big changes are happening in private clubs, and Josh Paris, CCM, CCE is at the center of it all. From overseeing massive renovations at his club to running for the CMAA National Board, Josh is leading in more ways than one. In this episode, we dive into: The thought process behind his club’s major renovation—what worked, what didn’t, and lessons learned. His CMAA Board campaign and what he hopes t...

What does it take to lead private clubs across the globe and build teams that thrive? I sat down with Ed Chapman , CEO of Royal Auckland and Grange Golf Club, to talk about his incredible journey through the private club industry. From the UK to Dubai, Hong Kong, and now New Zealand, Ed has led with a unique blend of empathy, adaptability, and a deep respect for each club’s culture and traditions....

What if understanding behavior could transform how you lead and communicate in your club? This week, I welcomed back the incredible Anne-Maartje Oud , founder of The Behaviour Company, to share more of her expertise on leadership, communication, and the subtle power of body language. In this episode, Anne dives deep into the practical tools every leader needs to create trust, inspire teams, and na...

 This week, I sat down with Brian Langhorst, CEO of Eustis Chair, to talk about how the right furniture can completely transform a club’s atmosphere, functionality, and member experience. Brian shares the fascinating process behind crafting chairs that last—think 100,000 sits or more—and why durability, comfort, and style should never be overlooked.  From designing seating for iconic institutions...

What does it take to be a steady, visionary leader in private clubs? For James Reisig, CCM, CCE, General Manager of the Tokeneke Club and CMAA National Board Nominee, it’s all about collaboration, innovation, and building strong relationships—both with staff and members. In this episode, James shares his leadership journey, including the wild ATV accident he survived during last year’s CMAA World...

We sat down with Greg Klemp, General Manager at Money Hill Country Club, to talk about how he’s built a career centered around loyalty, trust, and strong leadership.  Greg shares his journey from managing cruise ships to transforming private clubs, diving into the strategies that have made him a leader people want to follow. We talk about: How Greg creates a vision that inspires his team and drive...

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 m...

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 del...

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 absenc...

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,...

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...

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...

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 m...

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 wha...

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 blow...

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...

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...