Behind the Gates

Ed Chapman & Michael Herd
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Management
  • Updated Weekly

Join us for wide-ranging conversations with guests from around the world as we approach every topic with Private Club management and leadership. Who are your hosts? Ed Chapman, CCM, PGA - a Club hospitality professional and current CEO of Royal Auckland & Grange Golf Club in New Zealand, who has worked in four countries on three continents over the past 20 years in Clubs. Michael Herd - one of the industry's leading recruiters, Head of International Search & Consulting for Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace, and Club aficionado who has placed some of the best managers at some of the most distinguished Clubs in the world. If you enjoy listening then please join your peers by subscribing through your favourite podcast listening app and leave a review to help others with similar interests find this show more easily. FOLLOW https://behindthegates.riverside.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/behindthegatespodcast

  1. Jul 19

    Nathanael Pietrzac-Swirc, CCM | How UGolf is Transforming Global Golf Management

    Join us as we explore the global golf industry with Nathanael Pietrzac-Swirc, CCM, CEO of UGolf International. Discover insights on international golf management, leadership challenges across cultures, and the booming development of golf in Africa and emerging markets. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nathaniel Piazak-Svertz 00:59 Nathaniel's Journey in Golf Management 04:08 Choosing UGolf: A Calculated Bet 09:10 UGolf's Global Operations and Management 11:37 Motivating and Training Staff in Africa 15:43 Challenges of Training and Service Standards 24:28 Government Investment in Golf in Africa 28:48 Future of Golf Development in Africa 31:38 Navigating Historical Context in Golf Development 35:11 Lessons Learned in Leadership and Management UGolf International - https://ugolf-international.com CMAE (Club Management Association of Europe) - https://www.cmae.org This episode is brought to you by Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace. The most trusted name in executive search and consulting. People focused, quality driven. https://kkandw.com Club Connections. Club Connections works with private clubs globally to strengthen member experience through better communication, storytelling and engagement. Founded by Emily McCarvill, the business partners with clubs to ensure the way they communicate reflects the culture and standards behind the gates. https://www.linkedin.com/company/clubconnections/ SHANX Mini Golf. SHANX Mini Golf is an Australian company known for producing some of the world's best mini golf courses. https://shanxminigolf.com.au They’re not the typical novelty putt-putt with windmills and clowns—instead, they build bespoke, high-quality 18-hole courses using synthetic turf, challenging terrain inspired by actual golf, often located at or near real golf clubs. Their architect is responsible for a few world top 100 golf courses too!  Contact the SHANX team and mention BTG podcast for a complimentary site feasibility assessment!

  2. Jul 12

    M. Kent Johnson, CCM, CCE, ECM | Work-place and life harmony

    We are joined by M. Kent Johnson, CCM, CCE, ECM, the GM/COO of Baltimore Country Club. The conversation explores the importance of work-life harmony and fostering a positive work culture in club management. It delves into the challenges of balancing work and personal life, the definition of work-life harmony, and the strategies for building a positive work culture. The conversation covers the importance of maintaining non-negotiable standards, adapting values, and learning from mistakes. It also delves into the challenges of correcting people, transitioning to leadership roles, empowering and letting go, the importance of asking questions, and the role of governance and leadership in organizational culture. Takeaways Work-life harmonyCreating a positive work culture Non-negotiable standardsLearning from mistakes Chapters 00:00 Balancing Work and Life10:04 Building a Positive Work Culture21:49 Maintaining Non-Negotiable Standards26:53 Empowering and Letting Go38:50 The Role of Governance and Leadership This episode is brought to you by Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace. The most trusted name in executive search and consulting. People focused, quality driven. https://kkandw.comClub Connections. Club Connections works with private clubs globally to strengthen member experience through better communication, storytelling and engagement. Founded by Emily McCarvill, the business partners with clubs to ensure the way they communicate reflects the culture and standards behind the gates. https://www.linkedin.com/company/clubconnections/SHANX Mini Golf. SHANX Mini Golf is an Australian company known for producing some of the world's best mini golf courses. https://shanxminigolf.com.auThey're not the typical novelty putt-putt with windmills and clowns—instead, they build bespoke, high-quality 18-hole courses using synthetic turf, challenging terrain inspired by actual golf, often located at or near real golf clubs. Their architect is responsible for a few of the world's top 100 golf courses, too!  Contact the SHANX team and mention BTG podcast for a complimentary site feasibility assessment!

  3. Jul 5

    Chris DeChillo | Be curious, not judgemental

    In this podcast episode, Chris DeChillo shares insights on authenticity in leadership and the value proposition in club restaurants. He discusses his background, career beginnings, and the transition from hotels to clubs. Additionally, he explores the role of authenticity in leadership and the importance of coaching for leadership development. The conversation covers empowerment, authenticity, values, leadership, coaching, curiosity, and fun in the context of the hospitality industry. It emphasizes the importance of being authentic, empowering team members, understanding personal values, and fostering a culture of curiosity and fun in leadership. Takeaways Authenticity in leadershipValue proposition in club restaurants Be yourselfEmpower your teamCuriosity and interest in othersValues exerciseLeadership and funLeadership and empowerment Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chris DeChillo06:40 The Role of Authenticity in Leadership25:37 Coaching and Authenticity31:59 Coaching and Personal Values41:03 Leadership and Fun This episode is brought to you by Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace. The most trusted name in executive search and consulting. People focused, quality driven. https://kkandw.comClub Connections. Club Connections works with private clubs globally to strengthen member experience through better communication, storytelling and engagement. Founded by Emily McCarvill, the business partners with clubs to ensure the way they communicate reflects the culture and standards behind the gates. https://www.linkedin.com/company/clubconnections/SHANX Mini Golf. SHANX Mini Golf is an Australian company known for producing some of the worlds best mini golf courses. https://shanxminigolf.com.auThey’re not the typical novelty putt-putt with windmills and clowns—instead, they build bespoke, high-quality 18-hole courses using synthetic turf, challenging terrain inspired by actual golf, often located at or near real golf clubs. Their architect is responsible for a few world top 100 golf courses too!  Contact the SHANX team and mention BTG podcast for a complimentary site feasibility assessment!

    Chris DeChillo | Be curious, not judgemental

  4. Jun 28

    John Blanch | Cultural adaptations and leading with empathy

    The conversation delves into John Blanch's experiences as a General Manager with a storied career in the private club industry. It explores his journey through various countries, the challenges of adapting to different cultures, and the importance of leadership and empathy in managing diverse teams. The conversation covers John's experiences in adapting to the UK, managing people in Asia, cultural differences and humor, leadership and tough decisions, and a fascinating Tiger Woods story. John's journey highlights the importance of empathy, cultural adaptation, and making tough decisions with respect and empathy. Takeaways Adapting to Different CulturesLeadership and Empathy Leading with empathyCultural adaptation Chapters 00:00 Adapting to Different Cultures16:00 Leadership and Empathy24:23 Adapting to the UK35:05 Leadership and Tough Decisions40:48 Tiger Woods Story This episode is brought to you by Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace. The most trusted name in executive search and consulting. People focused, quality driven. https://kkandw.comClub Connections. Club Connections works with private clubs globally to strengthen member experience through better communication, storytelling and engagement. Founded by Emily McCarvill, the business partners with clubs to ensure the way they communicate reflects the culture and standards behind the gates. https://www.linkedin.com/company/clubconnections/SHANX Mini Golf. SHANX Mini Golf is an Australian company known for producing some of the worlds best mini golf courses. https://shanxminigolf.com.auThey’re not the typical novelty putt-putt with windmills and clowns—instead, they build bespoke, high-quality 18-hole courses using synthetic turf, challenging terrain inspired by actual golf, often located at or near real golf clubs. Their architect is responsible for a few world top 100 golf courses too!  Contact the SHANX team and mention BTG podcast for a complimentary site feasibility assessment!

    John Blanch | Cultural adaptations and leading with empathy

  5. Jun 21

    Scott Clark | A journey from PGA to GM

    The podcast episode features an insightful conversation with Scott Clark, an experienced General Manager. Scott shares his career journey, transition to private member clubs, leadership style, and the challenges of balancing work and personal life. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, delegation, and self-awareness in leadership roles, as well as the value of transferable skills from a PGA background. The conversation covers the importance of balancing personal and professional life, the passion for the work, developing people, philosophy of people development, personal development plans, dressing and presentation, choosing the right club fit, and the importance of backing oneself. Takeaways Empathy and delegation are essential in effective leadership.Transferable skills from a PGA background contribute to successful leadership roles. Balancing personal and professional life is crucial for success.Developing people and personal development plans are essential for career growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast05:27 Leadership and Management Experience13:19 Transferable Skills from PGA Background19:01 Delegating Responsibility and Empowerment25:18 Career Progression and Self-Awareness32:00 Balancing Personal and Professional Life38:22 Philosophy of People Development47:24 Choosing the Right Club Fit This episode is brought to you by Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace. The most trusted name in executive search and consulting. People focused, quality driven. https://kkandw.comClub Connections. Club Connections works with private clubs globally to strengthen member experience through better communication, storytelling and engagement. Founded by Emily McCarvill, the business partners with clubs to ensure the way they communicate reflects the culture and standards behind the gates. https://www.linkedin.com/company/clubconnections/SHANX Mini Golf. SHANX Mini Golf is an Australian company known for producing some of the worlds best mini golf courses. https://shanxminigolf.com.auThey’re not the typical novelty putt-putt with windmills and clowns—instead, they build bespoke, high-quality 18-hole courses using synthetic turf, challenging terrain inspired by actual golf, often located at or near real golf clubs. Their architect is responsible for a few world top 100 golf courses too!  Contact the SHANX team and mention BTG podcast for a complimentary site feasibility assessment!

    Scott Clark | A journey from PGA to GM

  6. Jun 14

    Elaine Patterson | Finding Joy in Experiences

    The conversation covers Elaine Patterson's professional career, her experience as the spouse of a club manager, and the challenges of relocation. It delves into the importance of authenticity, personal growth, and prioritising personal and professional life. The conversation covers various aspects of being married to a club manager, including the impact on relationships, the importance of perspective, and the unique dynamics of the club industry. It also delves into the significance of communication, setting boundaries, and finding joy in the experience. Takeaways Authenticity in leadershipThe importance of prioritising personal and professional life. Perspective and self-understanding are crucial for navigating the challenges of being married to a club manager.Communication, setting boundaries, and finding joy in the experience are key to a successful relationship with a club manager. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Professional Career04:54 Married to a Club Manager09:50 HR and Leadership in Different Industries14:54 Finding a Thought Partner19:56 Authenticity and Personal Growth24:52 Prioritising Personal and Professional Life29:55 Relocation and Decision-Making37:29 The Importance of Perspective55:24 The Unique Dynamics of the Club Industry This episode is brought to you by Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace. The most trusted name in executive search and consulting. People focused, quality driven. https://kkandw.comClub Connections. Club Connections works with private clubs globally to strengthen member experience through better communication, storytelling and engagement. Founded by Emily McCarvill, the business partners with clubs to ensure the way they communicate reflects the culture and standards behind the gates. https://www.linkedin.com/company/clubconnections/SHANX Mini Golf. SHANX Mini Golf is an Australian company known for producing some of the world's best mini golf courses. https://shanxminigolf.com.auThey're not the typical novelty putt-putt with windmills and clowns—instead, they build bespoke, high-quality 18-hole courses using synthetic turf, challenging terrain inspired by actual golf, often located at or near real golf clubs. Their architect is responsible for a few of the world's top 100 golf courses, too!  Contact the SHANX team and mention BTG podcast for a complimentary site feasibility assessment!

  7. Jun 7

    Sarab Singh | Building Social Capital

    Sarab Singh, of Corporate Sherpas, shares insights on change leadership, modern leadership, and the importance of a learning mindset. He discusses the challenges of leading in a VUCA environment, the role of authentic leadership, and the neuroscientific approach to decision making. The conversation delves into various aspects of effective leadership, communication, and change management. It explores the challenges of leadership, the importance of empathy and active listening, and the value of setting up experiments to drive change. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships and social capital within a team. Takeaways Authentic leadership is essential in a VUCA environment.A growth mindset and a learning-oriented approach are crucial for modern leaders. Effective leadership requires empathy and active listening.Setting up experiments and learning from failure are essential for driving change. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Corporate Sherpas07:48 Learning Mindset and Neuroscientific Approach25:52 Navigating Leadership Challenges31:06 Empathy and Active Listening36:09 The Value of Setting Up Experiments42:24 Navigating the Change Curve47:28 The Importance of Social Capital Links Corporate Sherpas https://corporate-sherpas.au Base Camp - A Corporate Sherpas PodcastApple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com › podcast › base-camp-a-cor... This episode is brought to you by Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace. The most trusted name in executive search and consulting. People focused, quality driven. https://kkandw.comClub Connections. Club Connections works with private clubs globally to strengthen member experience through better communication, storytelling and engagement. Founded by Emily McCarvill, the business partners with clubs to ensure the way they communicate reflects the culture and standards behind the gates. https://www.linkedin.com/company/clubconnections/SHANX Mini Golf. SHANX Mini Golf is an Australian company known for producing some of the worlds best mini golf courses. https://shanxminigolf.com.auThey’re not the typical novelty putt-putt with windmills and clowns—instead, they build bespoke, high-quality 18-hole courses using synthetic turf, challenging terrain inspired by actual golf, often located at or near real golf clubs. Their architect is responsible for a few world top 100 golf courses too!  Contact the SHANX team and mention BTG podcast for a complimentary site feasibility assessment!

    Sarab Singh | Building Social Capital

  8. May 31

    Tom Wallace, CCM, CCE, ECM | Authenticity and self awareness

    The conversation with Tom Wallace covers his journey from early career beginnings to his leadership roles at prestigious golf clubs. It delves into his personal reflections, his father's influence, and the importance of work-life balance. Tom's authenticity and competitiveness are key takeaways from the discussion. The conversation delves into the themes of leadership, mentorship, career development, adaptability, authenticity, and self-awareness. It explores the attributes of effective leadership across different generations and the importance of reflection in one's career journey. Takeaways AuthenticityCompetitiveness Leadership AttributesMentorshipCareer Development Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tom Wallace07:10 Personal Reflections and Takeaways26:27 Influence of Father and Work-Life Balance31:54 Leadership and Mentorship45:31 Adaptability and Authenticity53:47 Leadership Attributes Across Generations This episode is brought to you by Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace. The most trusted name in executive search and consulting. People focused, quality driven. https://kkandw.comClub Connections. Club Connections works with private clubs globally to strengthen member experience through better communication, storytelling and engagement. Founded by Emily McCarvill, the business partners with clubs to ensure the way they communicate reflects the culture and standards behind the gates. https://www.linkedin.com/company/clubconnections/SHANX Mini Golf. SHANX Mini Golf is an Australian company known for producing some of the worlds best mini golf courses. https://shanxminigolf.com.auThey’re not the typical novelty putt-putt with windmills and clowns—instead, they build bespoke, high-quality 18-hole courses using synthetic turf, challenging terrain inspired by actual golf, often located at or near real golf clubs. Their architect is responsible for a few world top 100 golf courses too!  Contact the SHANX team and mention BTG podcast for a complimentary site feasibility assessment!

    Tom Wallace, CCM, CCE, ECM | Authenticity and self awareness
See All (47)

About

Join us for wide-ranging conversations with guests from around the world as we approach every topic with Private Club management and leadership. Who are your hosts? Ed Chapman, CCM, PGA - a Club hospitality professional and current CEO of Royal Auckland & Grange Golf Club in New Zealand, who has worked in four countries on three continents over the past 20 years in Clubs. Michael Herd - one of the industry's leading recruiters, Head of International Search & Consulting for Kopplin Kuebler & Wallace, and Club aficionado who has placed some of the best managers at some of the most distinguished Clubs in the world. If you enjoy listening then please join your peers by subscribing through your favourite podcast listening app and leave a review to help others with similar interests find this show more easily. FOLLOW https://behindthegates.riverside.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/behindthegatespodcast

Information

  • Creator
    Ed Chapman & Michael Herd
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Ed Chapman & Michael Herd
  • Show Website
    Behind the Gates

You Might Also Like