Private Club Radio Show

David Sweet’s journey from the luxury hotel world to the private club space is anything but typical—but his impact at Boca Woods shows what’s possible when a leader aligns people, purpose, and values.In this episode, David shares how Boca Woods has evolved by investing deeply in culture, communication, and brand—from the inside out. From forming a marketing dream team to reshaping how members engage with the club, this is a masterclass in modern leadership.We cover:How Boca Woods earned a nomination as a Distinguished Club of the WorldThe importance of clarity in values—and how to make them live in your operationsHow storytelling (internally and externally) has transformed engagementBuilding a healthy internal culture that supports mental health and belongingThe value of mentorship—and how one mentor helped him negotiate a GM role on his termsWhy people and culture aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re your competitive edgeThis one is for anyone who believes clubs are about more than just amenities—they’re about people. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

Ever wondered why your club's racket department seems financially constrained? In this eye-opening episode, consultant and racket management expert Ed Shanaphy lifts the curtain on the numbers rarely discussed in polite club company.The financial anatomy of a racket department is more complex than most realize. Shanaphy reveals that nationally, racket departments typically receive just 3% of a club's overall revenue – translating to about $300,000 for a club generating $10 million. More critically, payroll shouldn't exceed 55% of that figure, leaving just $165,000 to staff an entire department. These constraints explain why directors must be creative with limited resources.Rather than defaulting to discounts, Shanaphy advocates strategic revenue growth through thoughtful promotions. "If you come to your ladies practice, 50% off Sophie Bella clothing," he suggests as an example that drives both participation and sales. This cross-selling approach delivers more value than random price cuts while building stronger member engagement.The conversation explores compensation structures, housing considerations, and how top professionals approach the business side of racket sports. Shanifee draws important parallels to golf management, noting that understanding operations beyond teaching is crucial for long-term success. "I strung a lot of rackets at midnight so members had them at 6am the next day," he recalls, emphasizing how these experiences shape exceptional club professionals.Looking toward 2025, Shanaphy identifies dynamic pricing as an emerging trend. Just as hotels and airlines adjust prices based on demand, forward-thinking clubs are considering charging premium rates during peak hours while offering discounts during traditionally slower periods. This approach maximizes both revenue and facility usage – though implementation requires sensitivity at member-owned clubs.Whether you're managing rackets at a prestigious club or simply curious about the business behind the sport, this conversation provides invaluable insights into creating sustainable, profitable racket programs that enhance the overall club experience. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

What do private clubs and political campaigns have in common? Turns out… a lot more than you think.In this episode, Denny sits down with Charles “Chuck” Merriman, CCM. TRhe politically wired, quick-witted COO of San Diego Country Club whose journey from congressional campaign manager to club executive is anything but ordinary.Chuck shares how his deep roots in politics shaped his leadership style, how civic involvement helped reopen his club during COVID, and why every club leader should build relationships in their local government before they need something.We dive into:The surprising parallels between campaign strategy and club managementHow to deal with tough members, tougher boards, and Twitter trollsThe real secret to persuasion, power, and protecting your club’s reputationChuck’s proudest wins, hardest losses, and the leadership lessons in betweenThis one’s packed with humor, real talk, and insight for anyone who leads in high-pressure environments.If you’ve ever felt like club leadership is political this episode proves you’re absolutely right. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

Work Hard, Be Kind, Pour the Wine. Today’s guest is Velecia Luckenbill and trust me, you’re gonna love her.She’s the Director of Food & Beverage at Colonial Country Club, a certified sommelier, and one of the most vibrant, driven, and straight-up joyful humans in the private club world. But her journey? It’s anything but typical.Velecia came to the U.S. from Jamaica through an H-2B government work program. She left behind her young son, drove from Miami to Michigan, and landed in the middle of a snowstorm—with a leather jacket and no clue what a fire drill was. Fast forward: she’s now running the show, leading teams, throwing mariachi-filled parties for members, and still managing to keep her family front and center.We talk about:– Her path from hospitality to club leadership– Why disconnection is just as important as connection (and how she learned the hard way)– How she teaches wine like a boss (and why perfume is banned)– The not-so-secret secret to a strong marriage: only one manager per householdThis episode is about growth, grit, and grace—with a few laughs and wine notes along the way. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

This one’s got heart, hustle, and some serious longevity.I’m joined by Salil Bokil—GM of Hollywood Golf Club down the Jersey Shore. He’s been there 18 years, and somehow built a team where no one leaves. I’m talking a chef who’s been there 17 years… a controller who’s clocked in for over 36. It’s wild—but once you hear how he leads, it all makes sense.Salil walks us through his journey from India to the U.S., landing here just two weeks before 9/11, and how that moment shaped everything that came after. We talk about his early years in hotels, why clubs became his forever home, and how he keeps things fresh season after season.He shares what it really takes to build trust with a board, a team, and a membership—and why being visible, grounded, and curious has been his leadership edge.We also get into: – The underrated magic of seasonal downtime – What he learned from his parents (and still carries today) – How he connects with over 100 seasonal staff—and remembers what you drank a month ago – And why you probably shouldn’t try to pull a fast one on him (he’s done your job before)Salil’s the real deal. No fluff. Just great stories, real strategy, and a masterclass in how to lead well—and stay human doing it. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

Jeff Wilson, veteran club pro and longtime GM, shares insights from decades in club leadership including extraordinary service moments, cultural development, and strategies for successful interim management.• Once jumped into a pond to retrieve a member's submerged golf cart and purse • Cleanliness is the first thing to check when walking into a new club – vents, picture frames, light bulbs• Member expectations have risen as clubs are now viewed as second homes• Boards must clearly define "who you want to be and what you want to be" before setting strategy• Avoid agenda-driven board members focused on personal projects rather than strategic initiatives• Involve team members in decision-making processes to gain better ideas and stronger buy-in• Watch your language – eliminate negative phrases like "no," "can't," "don't" from communications• Successful future clubs will create exceptional experiences for both members and employees• Creative staff housing solutions help address ongoing hospitality workforce challenges Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

What do bourbon, mentorship, and kitchen chaos have in common? Kevin Rice.In this episode, we chat with Kevin Rice— ormer chef, current GM of Lexington Country Club, and certified executive bourbon steward—to talk about leading with flavor. They dive into what it takes to train young staff (even when they can’t legally taste the wine), how bourbon tastings became a secret weapon for member engagement, and why the best leaders don’t bark orders—they teach.From redesigning kitchens to managing multi-million-dollar capital projects, Kevin blends people-first leadership with straight-up bourbon wisdom.If you’ve ever wondered how to run a private club like a Michelin-starred operation—with a little Kentucky charm—this one’s for you. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

You probably don’t plan for a fire in the supply closet.Heather Korte didn’t either.But when three stories of her clubhouse got soaked, smoked out, and stripped to the studs, she got to work.No panic. No pity.Just bold moves, creative thinking, and a serious amount of member love.Heather is the GM at Oakley Country Club, and this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to lead through crisis and come out better on the other side.👇 Here's some of what we get into🌎 Why her CMAA network saved the season (and her sanity)💡 Creative pivots: from cantinas to pop-up flower markets🙌 Keeping your team engaged without a building, a kitchen, or a clear timeline🍷 What a $4K bottle of wine and a kicked trash can taught her about service🏊 Why the pool deck became the new hub of club life🧘 Yoga in borrowed studios, Easter by the pool, and the world’s scrappiest gala🔥 And how to keep your team calm, creative, and moving when everything else is literally falling apartIf you’ve ever had to lead through the unexpected, this one hits home.If you haven’t yet…take notes. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

In this episode, we chat with Desi Speh, COO  at Desert Highlands in Arizona. A guy who’s quietly redefining what club leadership can look like.Desi’s not the loudest voice in the room, but his impact is undeniable. From turning valet service into a culture-defining moment                              (ice cream cooler included 🍦) to mentoring staff into leaders, his philosophy is simple: lead from the heart, empower your people, and always keep perspective.In this conversation, you’ll learn:Why empowerment beats micromanagement (every time)How to build a culture where even the dishwasher feels ownershipHow Desi’s failed marriage made him a better GM, dad, and husbandThe one piece of advice that changed his leadership foreverAnd why sometimes, the best ideas come from valetWhether you're managing a club or leading a team, this one’s packed with real-life takeaways you’ll want to implement immediately. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

Forget everything you think you know about private clubs.At Monticello Motor Club, the luxury isn’t just on the track, it’s in every detail, every experience, every smile.And leading the charge is Ionel Porumb, a hospitality powerhouse whose journey from Romania to the C-suite is as inspiring as it gets.After working his way from cruise ship crew utility to management roles at Mar-A-Lago and Woodway Country Club, Ionel now serves as General Manager and COO of MMC, helping transform it into a full-scale resort destination for racing enthusiast. In this episode, we explore:The bold vision behind Monticello Motor Club’s future growth.How Ionel builds staff culture by combining empathy, excellence, and high expectations.The real meaning of attention to detail — from landscaping the grounds to designing member experiences.His incredible path from immigrant to leader, and what chasing the American Dream really looks like.Plus, what it takes to keep both members and million-dollar race cars safe — without sacrificing fun.Ionel’s story is a testament to grit, gratitude, and big dreams.If you’re passionate about leadership, culture, hospitality, or just want to hear from someone who lives and breathes excellence — this is your episode. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin