In this heartfelt episode of Bottled Up, host Andrew Allen sits down with Glenn Haggerty, Chief Development Officer and managing partner of Gulf Islands Water Park. Glenn shares how his sports-focused upbringing in New Orleans, with three older brothers and a competitive drive shaped on the baseball field at LSU, laid the foundation for his leadership style. From managing a Kinkos store to navigating the unique world of water parks, he offers an honest look at the highs, lows and splashes of building and running a successful seasonal attraction.

Listeners will enjoy behind-the-scenes stories about overcoming challenges, embracing technology, fostering strong teams, and creating lasting family memories. Glenn also shares practical visitor tips, like the best days to attend for fewer crowds and better value, along with how to purchase tickets and stay connected with Gulf Islands and Blue Bayou Water Park.

3 Key Takeaways

1. Transferable Leadership Skills

Glenn Haggerty explains how his competitive upbringing and college baseball experience at LSU taught him essential skills in teamwork, discipline, and motivation. These lessons have directly shaped his management approach, from his early days at Kinkos to leading a dynamic water park team.

2. Evolving Water Park Business Model

Running a water park requires sharp business strategy. Glenn discusses how Gulf Islands has embraced modern tools like dynamic pricing, robust e-commerce, and active social media management. These innovations help maximize value for guests, streamline operations, and keep the park ahead in a weather-dependent, seasonal industry.

3. Community and Guest Experience Focus

At its heart, the park is about people. Glenn and his team are deeply committed to serving their local community by providing first jobs for young people and creating a safe, joyful space where families can unplug, connect, and build cherished summer memories together.

Show Overview

00:00 Growing up with older brothers and friends

05:52 Balancing academics and athletics

09:11 Transitioning into corporate store management

10:12 Leadership and team dynamics

13:13 Challenges of management

16:24 Setting healthy workplace boundaries

20:13 The life-changing call that led to water parks

25:21 Building Gulf Islands Water Park

26:15 When a lease signing fell through

29:29 Traveling between Chicago and New Orleans

34:31 Implementing technology to enhance the guest experience

38:40 Creating unforgettable water park moments

41:52 Promoting Blue Bayou's first year

43:19 Marketing ideas and business insights