In this episode of The GBN University podcast, host Spencer Clouatre interviews Sara Dickson, Director of Golf at Wilderness Country Club, and Sarah Bejgrowicz-Lewallen, Head Golf Professional at the Governors Club. The conversation delves into their career paths, the importance of team culture, challenges in the golf industry, and the evolving membership experience. The discussion highlights effective strategies for managing conflicts, emphasizing the role of time and attention in building trust and improving club dynamics.

Episode Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

01:08 Meet Sara Dickson: Career Journey and Insights

05:47 Meet Sarah Bejgrowicz-Lewallen: Career Journey and Insights

13:41 Challenges in the Golf Industry

29:54 Membership Experience and Team Culture

33:56 Building Culture Through Daily Interactions

34:16 Addressing Conflict as a Speed Bump

36:16 Onboarding New Team Members

37:53 Peer-to-Peer Corrections and Leadership

39:12 Building Trust Through Actions

41:01 Aligning Policy with Reality

47:14 Conflict Resolution Strategies

49:03 The Importance of Time in Leadership

01:00:08 Data-Driven Decision Making

01:05:17 Final Thoughts and Reflections

A special thank you to this episode's sponsor, Tee Commerce. Tee Commerce provides golf clubs with a way to enhance their retail operations without inventory risk by utilizing a seamlessly-integrated online ordering platform. New GBN member accounts get 10% off an annual shop subscription, and existing members receive one month free on their annual subscription with Tee Commerce. Learn more about Tee Commerce >> https://www.teecommerce.shop/

GBN is the leading private network for today's most successful PGA Professionals. Exclusive events at premier facilities, vendor partnerships to grow your business, education to increase your knowledge, and access to the top Professionals in the industry are just some of what membership in Golf Business Network will get you. Go to www.golfbusinessnetwork.com to find out more and become a member.

In this episode, host Spencer Clouatre interviews James "JR" Pond, who shares his unique journey from serving as a head golf professional to becoming the program director for the Professional Golf Management degree at PennWest California. JR discusses the challenges and accomplishments of his diverse career, the importance of service, and his passion for mentoring the next generation of golf professionals. The conversation also delves into JR's core values of service to others, family, and love, emphasizing the holistic benefits of the game of golf for physical and mental well-being.

Learn more about Donald Ross— https://donaldross.com/

Show Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:50 JR's Early Life and Introduction to Golf

03:46 High School and College Golf Journey

06:21 Transition to Professional Life and Challenges

09:29 Academic Pursuits and Career Shift

26:32 Core Values and Guiding Principles

42:29 Embracing Failure in Player Development

43:33 Student Leadership and Renewed Excitement

45:24 Challenges of the PAT Exam

48:00 Teaching Mindfulness and Staying Present

52:52 Evolution of Golf Technology and AI

55:48 Balancing Work and Life in the Golf Industry

01:00:32 Building Effective Systems for Success

01:06:31 Core Values: Family and Love

01:11:35 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

GBN is the leading private network for today's most successful PGA Professionals. Exclusive events at premier facilities, vendor partnerships to grow your business, education to increase your knowledge, and access to the top Professionals in the industry are just some of what membership in Golf Business Network will get you. Go to www.golfbusinessnetwork.com to find out more and become a member.

In this episode, host Spencer Clouatre talks with Chris Rowe, the Director of Golf at Whispering Pines Golf Club. They delve into Chris's journey in the golf industry, discussing the importance of hard work, taking risks, and having mentors. Chris shares valuable insights on building a brand, being authentic, and the significance of giving back to the next generation of golf professionals.

GBN is the leading private network for today's most successful PGA Professionals. Exclusive events at premier facilities, vendor partnerships to grow your business, education to increase your knowledge, and access to the top Professionals in the industry are just some of what membership in Golf Business Network will get you. Go to www.golfbusinessnetwork.com to find out more and become a member.