Private Club Radio Show

Samantha Sheffield is not your average CFO. She’s also the Assistant GM at Bay Colony Golf Club—and the rare finance leader who’s just as comfortable talking about spreadsheets as she is member experience and strategic vision.In this episode, Samantha shares her winding career path—from biology major and calculus tutor to senior finance roles in real estate, global operations, and eventually private clubs. Along the way, she’s learned how to turn financials into a tool for leadership, not just reporting.We dive into: – Why CFOs and GMs should function as true strategy partners – What “healthy” club financials actually look like (hint: it’s not just about the income statement) – The operational red flags that often go unnoticed until it’s too late – The balance between financial discipline and protecting the member experience – How clubs can avoid the most common financial mistakes before they become big problemsSamantha brings perspective, humor, and sharp insights to every part of this conversation—and leaves club leaders at all levels with tools they can start using right away. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

Joe Smith Is Back And He’s Still Setting the Bar for Club CommunicationJoe’s not just a friend of the show he’s one of the most forward-thinking GMs out there when it comes to content, connection, and culture.In this episode, Joe Smith of Countryside Golf & Country Club joins us again to share how his weekly club update videos have become more than just informative they’ve become a part of the club’s identity. What started as a workaround to a $10K drone quote has evolved into a creative engine that entertains, informs, and brings the whole community closer together.We talk about:Why consistency matters more than polishHow Joe’s Monday videos are helping him manage the rumor mill better than everThe behind-the-scenes process (and why it only takes about 3 hours a week)“One-bite reviews,” board member spotlights, and other fun formats that get members talkingHow this approach strengthens off-season engagement and boosts staff moraleAnd what’s next: a club podcast that blends connection, marketing, and creativityThis episode is part case study, part playbook, and part reminder that a little personality goes a long way.If you're looking to rethink your club's communication strategy—or just need a spark to try something new—this one’s worth your time. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

Golf pro. Road warrior. Culture shifter. GM.Rick Schultz has worn a lot of hats—and in this episode, he brings them all to the table.We explore Rick’s evolution from a 22-year-old tour hopeful to a private club GM overseeing a sprawling Oregon property with 27 holes, indoor tennis, pickleball, mini golf, and more. But his real focus? People and purpose.In this episode, we cover:– What makes the leap from pro shop to GM actually work – How a club re-centered its strategy around members—not luxury – Spotting toxic board culture before it wrecks your team – Why member guests raving about your club is the highest form of success – And how Rick pulled off a 250-person candlelit dinner during a blackoutRick’s down-to-earth leadership style is a masterclass in knowing your market, honoring your mission, and building a team that makes the whole thing run better. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

From wiping down ballroom walls as a kid to leading a thriving club community in the Lowcountry—Eric Bischofberger’s journey has come full circle.In this episode, I sat down with Eric Bischofberger, CCM, General Manager & COO at Hampton Hall Club, to talk about what it’s really like to grow up around the private club world… and then choose to build a career in it yourself.We dive into what it means to follow in your father’s footsteps, not out of obligation but out of deep respect and purpose. Eric shares how those early memories shaped his mindset, and how he’s developed his own style of leadership, rooted in persistence, humility, and long term perspective.We also cover– How a few key failures taught him more than any certification ever could – What it means to lead in a residential community, not just a clubhouse – Why “making it” in this industry often comes down to showing up, over and over again Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

Melissa Hansen, Director of Membership & Marketing at The Club at Olde Cypress, shares her expertise in humanizing club brands. She discusses the importance of crafting messaging that reflects a club's true personality and integrating AI tools without losing the human touch. Hansen highlights the need for seamless communication and operations to enhance the member experience, as well as the power of internal storytelling. Her insights offer valuable strategies to foster genuine connections and adapt to the evolving landscape of private clubs.

his one’s a blast.Jenna Jardin is the kind of leader who’s juggling everything—membership, events, communications, and full-tilt programming—at one of the most active and unique private clubs in the country: Beacon Hill Club.There’s no golf and no downtime. Just a massive outdoor rink, hundreds hockey players, an iconic winter recital, curling nights, teen trips, family dinners, a beautiful club house and a member experience that runs year-round.Jenna joined the club in the middle of the pandemic, coming straight from the world of NYC hotel sales—and has since helped shape Beacon Hill into a place where members aren’t just participating... they’re showing up, staying late, and asking what’s next.In this episode, we dig into:How to run a high-energy club without relying on golf or courtsThe importance of smart programming and even smarter communicationJenna’s transition from hard sales to community-buildingWhat it takes to design events people actually want to attendAnd how Beacon Hill’s team culture helps them pull it all offThis isn’t your traditional club model. And that’s what makes it so good. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

What happens when the turnout is low, the plan isn’t working, and canceling the event feels like the easiest option?If you’re Chef Andrew Haapala, you pivot. You turn the dining room into a chef’s table. You bring the members into the kitchen. And you make it an experience they’ll never forget.In this episode, Andrew, Executive Chef at The Country Club of Virginia, shares how one slow night became an unexpected win—not just for the members, but for his team.We talk about:How creative thinking turns a problem into an opportunityWhy showing up for the few can mean more than serving the manyThe importance of having a team that’s ready to adapt on the flyWhat leadership looks like behind the line—especially when plans changeAndrew’s leadership style is thoughtful, real, and rooted in trust. This episode is a great listen for chefs, F&B pros, and any club leader who knows that the best experiences sometimes come from the least expected moments. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

Greg Surine, the Communications & Engagement Director at Shelter Harbor Golf Club, brings a unique blend of creativity from his diverse background in radio and entertainment. He discusses how storytelling has transformed club communications, detailing the impressive 73 Net Promoter Score achieved at his club. Surine shares insights on launching a club magazine to enhance member engagement, and reveals behind-the-scenes lessons from his time with Conan O’Brien that apply to building meaningful connections in club culture.

Some clubs operate year-round. Others? They pack a full year’s worth of hospitality into just six months—and that’s exactly what happens at Cedar Creek Club, where Hannah Bradford helps lead the charge.Hannah didn’t take the traditional path into private clubs. With a background in sports science and hospitality, she found herself in membership services before taking a leap to join one of the most fast-paced, seasonal clubs in the industry. Cedar Creek isn’t just a club—it’s a tight-knit, summer camp-style community where members return year after year, expecting nothing less than perfection.We dive into:*How she transitioned into private clubs and what drew her to Cedar Creek.*The unique challenges of running a seasonal club with a short, high-energy window.*Keeping members engaged even when the club is closed for half the year.*Why Cedar Creek feels more like “adult summer camp” than a traditional private club.*What she’s learned about leadership, team culture, and making every moment count.Hannah brings enthusiasm, adaptability, and a true passion for hospitality, and this conversation is full of insights on seasonal operations, member engagement, and career growth in private clubs. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin

When Rachel Brown stepped into her role as Membership & Marketing Director at Evansville Country Club, she was ready to hit the ground running. What she didn’t expect? The world shutting down two weeks later.Instead of waiting it out, Rachel and her team got creative—launching weekly videos, virtual content, and new ways to engage members even when they couldn’t be at the club. Fast forward to today, and she’s transformed how Evansville CC connects with its members, blending storytelling, digital engagement, and old-school hospitality into a modern membership experience.In this episode, we dive into:Her transition from Disney Cruises to private clubs—and what she brought with her.The power of video and digital content in keeping members engaged.How Evansville CC handled a multi-million dollar renovation while growing a younger demographic.Why storytelling is the most underrated tool in club marketing.Her approach to making club communication more fun, engaging, and personal.Rachel is a master at making members feel connected, and her insights on marketing, branding, and hospitality are a must-hear for anyone looking to bring fresh energy to their club. Follow us on the socials Private Club Radio InstagramPrivate Club Radio Linkedin Denny Corby Instagram Denny Corby Linkedin