ABOUT ERIC

Eric Bischofberger, CCM, CMCA, is GM/COO of Hampton Hall Club, a Distinguished Club with EXCEPTIONAL status located in Bluffton, South Carolina. With a career rooted in the private club industry from an early age, Eric was influenced by his father, a longtime club manager, shaping his passion for hospitality andleadership.

Known for his people-first leadership style, Eric emphasizes culture, continuous improvement and accountability. He believes strongly in empowering teams, fostering trust and creating environments where employees feel supportedand inspired to grow.

Eric is recognized for his thoughtful approach to leadership, hiscommitment to developing others and his focus on creating meaningful experiences for both members and staff.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHT

Step into a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with Eric Bischofberger, CCM, CMCA, GM/COO of Hampton Hall Club. Drawing from a career shaped by mentorship, personal growth and real-world leadership experience, Eric shares the lessons that have defined his leadership philosophy.

In this episode, Eric explores the importance of feedback, the value of learning through mistakes and the role culture plays in shaping both team performance and member experience. He reflects on the emotional impact of achieving Distinguished Club recognition and why that success belongs to theentire team.

Eric also shares his perspective on leading with intention, responding rather than reacting and creating an environment where people feel empowered to do their best work. His insights offer a powerful reminder that leadership is about people, purpose and the impact we leave behind.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THISCONVERSATION

In this thoughtful discussion, Eric shares insights shaped by experience, mentorship and personal growth. You’ll hear:

• Why great leadership starts with asking “what are you going to do with it?”
• How feedback can be one of the most valuable tools for growth
• The difference between reacting and responding in leadership moments
• Why culture requires constant attention and daily reinforcement
• How strong teams create exceptional member experiences
• The importance of empowering employees at every level
• Why mistakes are essential to learning and continuous improvement
• How leadership is defined by impact, not title
• The emotional significance behind Distinguished Club recognition
• Why “pressure is a privilege” is a powerful leadership mindset

Throughout the conversation, Eric reinforces that leadership is rooted in intention, humility and a commitment to making a positive impact on others.

ABOUT TOM

Tom Vlach is the founder of Triumph Group, a boutique executive search and advisory firm specializing in the private club industry. Prior to founding the firm, he spent more than 30 years as a golf course superintendent, including leadership roles within the PGA Tour and at premier club properties.

Known for his relationship-driven approach, Tom emphasizes integrity, honesty and long-term connection in both leadership and executive search. His experience spans both private club environments and large organizational structures, giving him a unique perspective on governance, cultural alignment and leadership fit.

Tom is passionate about helping clubs and candidates make informed decisions, ensuring both sides understand expectations, culture and long-term goals. He is also an advocate for improving work-life balance within theindustry and supporting the next generation of leaders.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHT

Step into a candid and experience-driven conversation with Tom Vlach, founder of Triumph Group and longtime leader in the private club industry. Drawing on a 30-year career as a golf course superintendent, Tom shares the lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy, from early mentorship to high-pressure moments on one of golf’s biggest stages.

In this episode, Tom explores the importance of relationships inleadership, the need for patience and clarity during challenging situations and the role of integrity in building trust across teams and organizations. He reflects on how transitioning from private club operations to a corporate environment reshaped his approach to communication and influence.

Tom also discusses the importance of cultural fit in leadership roles, the realities of governance within clubs and why candidates must approach opportunities with the same level of diligence as the organizations interviewing them.

His perspective offers a grounded reminder that leadership is not about personal recognition, but about stewardship, alignment and the ability to positively impact others over time.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THISCONVERSATION

In this thoughtful discussion, Tom shares insights shaped by decades of experience in the field. You’ll hear:

• Why mentorship can shape leadership far beyond technical skills
• How relationships, not titles, define long-term success
• Why patience and clear thinking are critical during high-pressure moments
• How to lead without needing recognition or credit
• Why managing up and down is an essential leadership skill
• How cultural fit determines long-term success more than capability alone
• Why candidates should interview clubs as thoroughly as they are being interviewed
• How governance and leadership expectations impact executive tenure
• Why integrity and honesty remain foundational in leadership and business
• The importance of advocating for work-life balance in a demanding industry
• How strong team culture directly influences member experience
• Why leadership is ultimately about stewardship, not control

ABOUT DAVID

David Main, MBA, PGA, ECM, is GM/CEO of Lambton Golf & Country Club and a past president of the Club Managers Association of Canada. A former PGA professional, he began his career in golf operations before transitioning into club management, where he has spent more than two decades leading teams and shaping club culture.

Known for his thoughtful, people-centered leadership style, David places a strong emphasis on mentorship, self-awareness and intentional leadership. His approach is rooted in the belief that great leadership begins with understanding oneself and extends to every interaction with team members.

As the 2025 recipient of the Denzil Palmer Mentor of the Year Award, David is recognized for his commitment to developing others and contributing to the growth of the private club industry. He is a strong advocate for fostering supportive environments where individuals feel valued, respected and inspired to grow.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHT

Step into a reflective and inspiring conversation with David Main, GM/CEO of Lambton Golf & Country Club and 2025 Denzil Palmer Mentor of the Year Award recipient. Drawing on a career that spans the PGA and private club leadership, David shares how personal challenges and a transformative solo cycling journey across Canada reshaped his perspective on leadership, identity and purpose.

In this episode, David explores the importance of self-awareness, empathy and intentional leadership in today’s club environment. He discusses why consistency in service matters more than perfection, how team culture directly influences member experience and why leaders must prioritize the well-being and engagement of their staff.

He also reflects on the power of mentorship, the responsibility leaders have to positively impact others each day and the importance of maintaining perspective in a high-pressure industry. His story offers a compelling reminder that leadership is ultimately about people, presence and the legacy we leavethrough others.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THISCONVERSATION

In this thoughtful discussion, David shares insights shaped byexperience, reflection and personal growth. You’ll hear:

• Why self-awareness is one of the most important qualities a leader can develop
• How separating identity from title can lead to stronger, more grounded leadership
• Why consistency matters more than perfection in delivering a great member experience
• How team culture directly impacts member satisfaction and engagement
• Why mentorship plays a critical role in shaping the future of the industry
• How leaders can maintain perspective during high-pressure moments
• Why empathy and intentional presence must be practiced, not assumed
• How personal challenges can become defining moments for leadership growth
• Why creating a positive impact on others each day should be a leadership priority
• How legacy is built through people, not projects or milestones

Throughout the conversation, David reinforces that leadership is a daily practice rooted in intention, awareness and care for others. His perspective serves as a reminder that when leaders invest in their people, they create stronger cultures, better experiences and a more resilient industry.

ABOUT COREY

Corey Saban is a communications strategist with a background in journalism, broadcasting and leadership communications. Over the course of his career, he has worked across media, storytelling, team development and crisis communication, helping leaders and organizations strengthen the way they connect with others.

Known for his thoughtful, engaging and people-centered approach, Corey brings a strong understanding of how presence, emotional intelligence and intentional messaging influence trust, culture and leadership effectiveness.

His work in and around the private club industry reflects a deep belief that communication is not just about delivering information. It is about helping people feel understood, valued and connected to something larger than themselves.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHT

Step into a conversation about leadership, communication and club culture with Corey Saban, communications strategist. Drawing on experiences from journalism, broadcasting and advisory work, Corey shares what he has learned about leadership from watching how people respond under pressure and why the leaders who stand out most are often those who remain calm, measured and deeply aware of how they make others feel.

In this episode, Corey explores the importance of emotional intelligence, presence and intentional communication in today’s private club environment. He explains why trust and consistency are foundational to healthy club culture, how leaders can better connect with team members by understanding their individual motivations and why storytelling remains one of the most powerful tools for building stronger teams and more meaningful member experiences. His perspective is a timely reminder that leadership today requires not only clarity and resilience, but also humility, empathy and the discipline to listen before speaking.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS CONVERSATION

In this thoughtful discussion, Corey offers perspective shaped by years of experience in communications, media and leadership advisory work. You’ll hear:

• Why leadership under pressure reveals character more clearly than prepared words
• How emotional intelligence and presence shape trust inside club culture
• Why humility and restraint are often more powerful than being the loudest voice in the room
• How intentional communication helps leaders build credibility and consistency
• Why timing, tone and body language matter just as much as the message itself
• Where clubs often underestimate the impact of communication on culture
• How leaders can better engage teams by understanding what motivates each individual
• Why resilience, persistence and rejection can shape stronger leaders over time
• How storytelling helps turn service into experience and experience into memory
• Why mental health, vulnerability and asking for help matter in high-pressure club environments
• Why leadership is ultimately about impact and how people feel, not just outcomes

Throughout the conversation, Corey reinforces the idea that great leadership begins with self-awareness and extends through every interaction. His perspective reminds us that when leaders communicate with empathy, clarity and intention, they create stronger teams, healthier cultures and more meaningful experiences for everyone around them.

ABOUT MELISSA

Melissa Low is vice president of communications and advocacy at the Club Management Association of America. With more than 20 years at CMAA, she has played a key role in shaping the association’s communications strategy, event marketing, media outreach and advocacy efforts.

Throughout her career, Melissa has worked at the intersection of industry education, public affairs and legislative engagement, helping club leaders better understand the issues shaping their operations and communities. Known for her thoughtful, informed and highly practical approach, she brings a broadview of the private club industry and a deep commitment to helping professionals stay informed, connected and prepared for change.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHT

Step into a conversation about leadership, advocacy and the future of club management with Melissa Low, vice president of communications and advocacy at CMAA. Drawing on more than two decades of experience with the association, Melissa shares what she sees from her unique vantage point across education,communications and legislative affairs.

In this episode, Melissa explores the qualities that matter most in today’s club leaders, including resilience, adaptability and a focus on people. She also explains how education is evolving, why advocacy is becoming increasingly important and what club leaders should be paying closer attention to as legislative and regulatory changes continue at both the federal and statelevels. Her perspective is a timely reminder that leadership today requires not only operational excellence, but awareness, agility and the ability to connect the dots for others.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS CONVERSATION

In this thoughtful discussion, Melissa offers perspective shaped by years of experience in communications, advocacy and industry leadership. You’ll hear:

• Why adaptability and resilience are essential leadership qualities today
• How situational awareness helps leaders make stronger decisions
• Why people-focused leadership remains the distinguishing factor in great clubs
• How CMAA’s education has evolved in response to a changing industry
• What topics are trending most in club education right now, including AI and club culture
• Why advocacy matters and how it intersects with governance and accountability
• What legislative and regulatory issues club leaders should be watching closely
• Why many managers underestimate their ability to be effective advocates
• How new leaders can begin engaging in advocacy with confidence
• Why balance, perspective and personal joy matter even in high-pressure roles

Throughout the conversation, Melissa reinforces the idea that great leadership requires both awareness and action. Her perspective reminds us that when leaders stay informed, connected and people-centered, they are better equipped to guide their clubs through complexity and change.

ABOUT RICHARD

Richard LaRocca, CCM, CCE, is GM/COO of St. Clair Country Club and immediate past chair of CMAA. A respected leader in the private club industry, he has a 40-year career. Known for his steady, people-centered leadership style, Richard has built his reputation on service, mentorship and a deep belief that great club culture begins with investing in people. He has long been committed to advancing the profession, supporting emerging leaders and helping clubs create meaningful member and staff experiences.

Throughout his career, Richard has championed hospitality as a mindset rather than a department, emphasizing emotional connection, service excellence and the importance of developing others. His approach to leadership is grounded in humility, consistency and the belief that when teams feel valued and supported, exceptional member experiences naturally follow.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHT

Step into a conversation about leadership, service and culture with Richard LaRocca, CCM, CCE, GM/COO of St. Clair Country Club and Immediate Past Chair of CMAA. Drawing on fourdecades in the private club industry and his 2025 service as CMAA Chair, Richard reflects on the moments that shaped his leadership philosophy and the lessons he has learned about mentorship, emotional intelligence and building trust.

In this episode, Richard shares why leadership is less about being the loudest voice in the room and more about being the most consistent. He explores how clubs can create meaningful member experiences through empathy and anticipation, why culture remains the strongest stabilizer in uncertain times and how investing in people, from student employees to seasoned professionals, helps elevate both clubs and the profession itself.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THISCONVERSATION

In this thoughtful discussion, Richard offers perspective shaped by decades of leadership, service and industry involvement. You’ll hear:

• Why leadership is about developing people, not just managing tasks
• How consistency, humility and visibility shape trust
• Why culture is the strongest stabilizer during uncertainty
• How transparency and vulnerability can strengthen credibility
• What truly defines a memorable member experience
• Why hospitality should be treated as a mindset across the club
• How clubs can use information and data to personalize service
• What mentorship means in building future leaders
• Why investing in staff growth strengthens member experience
• How small acts of care can become the most meaningful moments in a club

Throughout the conversation, Richard reinforces the idea that leadership is a daily choice and a privilege. His perspective reminds us that when leaders invest in people with intention and heart, they create clubs where both staff and members feel they belong.

Jeff Thomas is the general manager of Corning Country Club, where he has led a decade of transformational growth grounded in servant leadership and transparent communication. Under his leadership, membership increased from 251 to capacity, financial stability improved and club culture evolved into a vibrant, highly engaged community.

Jeff began his career with Eagle Golf and American Golf, where mentors instilled in him the belief that people come first. He leads with visibility, daily staff engagement and a strong commitment to anticipating member needs.

His philosophy is simple: clarity, communication and consistency build connection and trust.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHT

Step into a conversation about transformational leadership with Jeff Thomas, general manager of Corning Country Club.

Drawing from more than a decade of hands-on leadership, Jeff shares how servant leadership, transparent communication and member-focused culture can reshape a club’s trajectory.

In this episode, Jeff discusses leading through major golf courserenovations, building trust during times of change and using feedback as fuel for growth. From reviving traditional events to creating new traditions that bring generations together, he offers practical insight into how culture drives both financial stability and sustained membership growth.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS CONVERSATION

In this candid discussion, Jeff offers perspective grounded in real-world club leadership. You’ll hear:

• Why servant leadership strengthens both staff performance and member loyalty
• How clarity, communication and consistency create lasting trust
• The role of transparency during major capital improvements
• Why daily visibility builds credibility with both staff and members
• How anticipating member needs elevates the experience
• Why feedback should be treated as fuel, not criticism
• How event programming can reignite club culture
• The importance of building a “third place” for families and generations
• Lessons learned from growing membership nearly 100 percent
• Why culture is the foundation of long-term financial sustainability

Throughout the conversation, Jeff emphasizes that sustainable growth is not about reacting quickly. It is about managing the process, staying consistent and building trust every single day.

ABOUT PASSION

Passion Graham is the founder of Passionate Productions, a communication and training firm dedicated to helping individuals and organizations present themselves with confidence, authenticity and impact. With a background in media and performance, she specializes in public speaking coaching, presentation skills and leadership communication.

Passion works with executives, teams and professionals across industries, guiding them to refine their message, strengthen their presence and connect more meaningfully with their audiences. Her approach blends practical techniques with emotional intelligence, emphasizing that effective communication is rooted in self-awareness and genuine connection.

Known for her energetic style and supportive coaching, Passion empowers leaders to overcome fear, embrace vulnerability and communicate with clarity in high-stakes environments. Her mission is simple: to help people use their voice as a tool for influence, trust and transformation.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHT

Step into a conversation about leadership through communication with Passion Graham, founder of Passionate Productions. Drawing from her experience in clubs, media, coaching and organizational training, Passion shares howconfidence, authenticity and emotional awareness shape a leader’s ability to inspire trust and connection.

In this episode, Passion explores the role of storytelling in leadership, the impact of nonverbal communication and why creating psychological safety is essential for high-performing teams. From overcoming fear of public speaking tocultivating presence under pressure, she offers practical insight into how leaders can communicate in ways that motivate, align and empower those around them.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS CONVERSATION

In this thoughtful discussion, Passion offers perspective grounded inreal-world coaching and human connection. You’ll hear:

• Why communication is one of the most powerful leadership tools
• How authenticity builds trust faster than polished perfection
• The role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership
• Why confidence grows through action, not waiting
• How nonverbal cues influence culture and team dynamics
• Strategies for overcoming fear of public speaking
• How storytelling creates alignment and engagement
• Why psychological safety fuels creativity and performance
• The importance of presence in high-pressure situations
• How leaders can empower others to find their voice

Throughout the conversation, Passion emphasizes that leadership communication is not about delivering flawless messages, it’s about creating meaningful human connection that inspires people to listen, participate and grow.