Leadership Lens

Michael Stott on Servant Leadership, Club Culture and Why Trust Still Matters Most

ABOUT MICHAEL Michael Stott, CCM, CCE, is a partner with The Triumph Group and a respected leader within the private club industry with more than 30 years of experience in club management and leadership. Beginning his career as a caddie and Evan Scholar, Michael went on to serve as a GM for more than three decadesbefore transitioning into executive search, leadership advisory and consulting. Known for his servant leadership philosophy and strong people-centered approach, Michael places a significant emphasis on trust, accountability and culture. He believes that great leadership begins with humility, consistency and a genuine investment in the success and well-being of others. Through his work with The Triumph Group, Michael helps clubs identify and develop strong leaders while guiding organizations in building healthy cultures that support both staff and member experience. His perspective is rooted in the belief that leadership is ultimately about service, integrity and positivelyimpacting the lives of others. EPISODE HIGHLIGHT Join us for a thoughtful and engaging conversation with Michael Stott, CCM, CCE, partner with The Triumph Group and longtime private club leader, as he shares lessons learned from more than three decades in club management, leadership and mentorship. Drawing on experiences that range from his early days as a young GM trying to “make everyone happy” to advising clubs and placing leaders today, Michael reflects on the importance of trust, accountability and servant leadership in building strong organizations. In this episode, Michael discusses why culture is one of the mostimportant assets within a club, how leaders must protect and support their teams and why hiring the right people is critical to long-term success. He also explores the connection between employee experience and member satisfaction, emphasizing that exceptional service can only happen when staff members feel respected, empowered and valued. Michael shares thoughtful insights on leadership development, difficult conversations, consistency in service and the role mentorship has played throughout his life and career. His perspective offers a compelling reminder that leadership is less about authority and more about serving others with humility, integrity and purpose. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THISCONVERSATION In this thoughtful discussion, Michael shares leadership insights shaped by decades of experience in club management, mentorship and organizational culture. You’ll hear: * Why leadership is about making thoughtful decisions, not trying to please everyone * How trust is built through care, competency and consistency * Why mentorship and accountability are essential for leadership growth * How strong club culture directly impacts both staff engagement and memberexperience * Why hiring the right people is one of the most important leadership responsibilities * How protecting staff creates healthier and more successful organizations * Why consistency matters in delivering exceptional member experiences * How servant leadership helps leaders build stronger teams and cultures * Why difficult conversations are necessary to maintain standards and accountability * How humility, faith and personal values can shape leadership philosophy * Why great leadership is rooted in service, integrity and genuine care for others Throughout the conversation, Michael reinforces that leadership is not about titles or control, but about positively influencing people, protecting culture and helping others grow. His reflections offer valuable lessons for leaders both inside and outside the private club industry.

Bill McMahon Sr.: Leadership, Listening & the Future of Private Clubs

ABOUT BILL McMAHON Bill McMahon Sr., AIA, OAA, is founder of McMahon Group and a strategic, financial and architectural planning consultant to private clubs throughout North America and beyond. Since establishing the firm in 1983, Bill has helped more than 2,000 clubs navigate complex challenges related to governance,membership, capital planning and facility development. With a background in architecture and a family legacy in the profession dating back to 1906, Bill brings a unique, integrated approach to club consulting—combining design, financial feasibility and member alignment to ensure successful project execution. Beyond his consulting work, Bill has served in leadership roles within his own clubs, including as president and board member, giving him firsthand insight into the realities of club governance and member expectations. He is a co-author of McMahon Club Trends®, founder of the Excellence in Club ManagementAward and a frequent speaker at industry conferences across North America. Known for his candid, practical and people-focused approach, Bill is widely respected for his ability to help clubs “tell it like it is” while guiding them toward thoughtful, sustainable solutions. EPISODE HIGHLIGHT Step into a candid and insightful conversation with Bill McMahon Sr., founder of McMahon Group, as he shares more than forty years of experience working with private clubs around the world. Drawing on his background as both an architect and club leader, Bill explains why strong governance, clear communication and member alignment are essential to long-term success. He reflects on how clubs have evolved over time—from traditional, single-focus facilities to dynamic, family-oriented environments that serve as today’s “third space” for connection and community. Bill also explores the importance of adapting to societal trends, managing competition, and making thoughtful capital decisions that balance member expectations with financial realities. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the role of mentorship, the importance of listening as a leader and the responsibility to guide clubs with honesty and integrity. His perspective offers a powerful reminder that while the industry continues to change, the fundamentals of leadership—people, trust and adaptability—remain constant. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS CONVERSATION In this engaging discussion, Bill shares insights shaped by decades of experience across more than 2,000 clubs. You’ll hear: * Why strong leadership from both the board and general manager is essential to club success * How member alignment and communication drive successful capital projects * Why “listening first” is one of the most important leadership skills * How clubs must evolve to meet changing societal needs and expectations * The growing importance of family, wellness and year-round programming * Why honesty and transparency are critical—even when conversations aredifficult * How mentorship shapes the next generation of club leaders * Why clubs must balance tradition with adaptability to remain relevant * The difference between return on investment and return on experience * Why giving back is one of the most important measures of long-termsuccess Throughout the conversation, Bill reinforces that great clubs are not defined by buildings alone, but by leadership, culture and the ability to create meaningful experiences for their members.

Larry Hirsh: The Risk of Falling Behind—How Clubs Lose Value When Leaders Stop Thinking Long-Term

ABOUT LARRY Larry Hirsh is president of Golf Property Analysts, a real estatespecialty consulting, appraisal and brokerage firm focused on golf and club properties across the United States. With a career spanning several decades, he has advised private clubs, boards and ownership groups on valuation, market positioning and long-term financial sustainability. Known for his objective, data-driven approach, Larry brings a deep understanding of the complexities facing today’s private clubs, from governance challenges to market dynamics and capital investment decisions. His work centers on helping clubs align financial strategy with long-term viability, ensuring decisions support both current and future membership. Larry is also a frequent speaker and writer within the industry, sharing insights on club value, governance and sustainability. His perspective is grounded in experience, integrity and a commitment to helping clubs make informed, responsible decisions.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHT Step into a candid and insightful conversation with Larry Hirsh,president of Golf Property Analysts, as he shares a decades-long perspective on what truly drives long-term success in the private club industry. Drawing from his experience advising clubs across the country, Larry explores the critical balance between underinvesting and overextending and why understanding market position is essential to maintaining financial stability and member value. He discusses the emotional and political dynamics of board governance, the risks of short-term decision-making and the importance of relying on professional expertise. Throughout the conversation, Larry reflects on the evolving expectations of members, the challenges of generational change and the importance of creating environments that are both financially sustainable and culturally relevant. He also offers practical insights into how clubs can stay ahead ofoperational challenges and avoid the pitfalls that lead to long-term decline. This episode offers a grounded and honest look at leadership through the lens of experience, discipline and a commitment to long-term thinking. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THISCONVERSATION In this thoughtful discussion, Larry shares insights shaped by decades of experience advising clubs and analyzing long-term outcomes. You’ll hear: * Why humility and the ability to say “I don’t know” are essential leadership traits * How honesty and integrity simplify decision-making and build long-term trust * Why clubs must prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term preferences * How deferred maintenance and misaligned spending can quietly undermine a club * The importance of understanding market position and member expectations * Why boards should rely on professional expertise rather than personal agendas * How emotional and political dynamics can impact governance decisions * Why balancing investment and financial discipline is critical to success * How generational shifts are changing what members value in the club experience Throughout the conversation, Larry reinforces that strong leadership is rooted in perspective, discipline and a commitment to making decisions that support the long-term health of the club and its community.

Roger Chao on Board Culture, Trust & Governance: How Great Boards Think, Challenge & Lead Together

ABOUT ROGER Roger Chao is a board consultant and governance expert who works with organizations to strengthen board performance, improve governance structures and build high-functioning leadership teams. With experience advising boards across multiple sectors, Roger focuses on helping directors understand their roles, improve decision-making processes and create cultures of accountability and trust. Known for his practical and insightful approach, Roger emphasizes the importance of clarity, discipline and continuous learning in governance, helping boards operate more effectively and deliver better outcomes for their organizations. EPISODE HIGHLIGHT Join Roger Chao, board consultant and governance expert, for athought-provoking conversation on what truly defines effective governance in today’s private club environment. In this episode, Roger explores how board culture shapes organizational success, why clarity and trust are essential and how boards can avoid common dysfunctions such as micromanagement, poor communication and misalignedexpectations. He shares insights on the importance of psychological safety, structured decision-making and the role of the chair in setting tone and direction. Roger also discusses how boards can create space for productive disagreement while maintaining respect and alignment. This conversation offers a fresh and practical perspective on governance, reminding leaders that strong boards are built through intentional behavior, not just formal structures. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN FROM THISCONVERSATION In this insightful discussion, Roger shares practical guidance forbuilding stronger boards and better governance. You’ll hear: * What defines a healthy board culture in practice * Why clarity and calm are essential in board leadership * How to avoid micromanagement and maintain proper governance roles * The importance of psychological safety in boardrooms * How boards can ask better questions and improve decision-making * Why trust between boards and management is critical * How to create space for productive disagreement * The role of the chair in shaping culture and behavior * Why governance is about accountability, not just participation * How strong boards balance oversight with trust Throughout the conversation, Roger reinforces that governance excellence comes from disciplined thinking, strong relationships and intentional leadership.

Eric Bischofberger: Why Culture, Accountability and “Pressure Is a Privilege” Define Great Leadership

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.