GBN University Podcast

Hosted by Spencer Clouatre

Business Careers Education Society Culture PhilosophyInterviews guestsExplicit

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Discover the path to success in the golf industry with the GBN University podcast. Hosted by Col. Spencer Clouatre, PhD, this educational series delves into leadership, finance, merchandising, and more. Join us on the journey to greatness. Subscribe now for expert insights and strategies. To learn more about GBN go to golfbusinessnetwork.com

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 8, 2026Episode 71 hr 2 min

Building Lasting Leaders with Warren West | Episode 1207

Host Spencer Clouatre interviews Warren West, Director of Golf at the Country Club of Virginia, about leadership, mentorship, and career development after West’s 35-year rise from assistant pro to director. West recounts choosing economics, entering the golf industry during the early-1990s recession, and his mentor, that shaped his view that golf is ultimately a people business. They discuss building self-awareness, valuing work ethic and initiative, learning from failure with organizational backing, and mentoring staff by helping them find the right career fit. West explains leading across CCV’s two distinct campuses, maintaining consistent communication in a large organization, gathering member feedback, navigating major construction and course renovation pressures, and emphasizing presence, honesty, genuineness, an ownership mindset, and modeling expected behavior.Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro02:01 Warren’s Career Snapshot03:19 Why Economics05:10 Recession to CCV Break07:55 Mentor Paul and PGA Path09:14 Rising Through CCV Roles11:09 Two Campuses Two Cultures14:11 Family Roots and Golf Start17:56 Early Leadership Lessons21:25 Self Awareness and Assessments27:15 Guiding Staff Career Paths29:29 Basics for Young Pros30:01 Effort Over Talent31:23 Mentorship Is Two-Way33:31 Learning Through Failure36:36 Keeping Everyone Aligned40:22 Renovations and Member Friction43:18 Boards and Strategic Governance44:59 Planning for Downturns49:02 Growing Into Bigger Roles53:20 Leadership Habits That Last59:04 Final Thanks and Takeaways 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.

May 11, 2026Episode 61 hr 16 min

Creating Community with Tyler Gosselin

Retired Colonel Spencer Clouatre hosts the GBN University Podcast with guest Tyler Gosselin, Director of Golf at Greensboro Country Club in North Carolina, who discusses his Vermont roots and hospitality upbringing in a family bed-and-breakfast. Gosselin outlines his career path, emphasizing making people feel welcome and mentoring staff to deliver consistent member experiences. He highlights visibility and responsiveness, using AI tools like ChatGPT for mock interviews, and maintaining work-life rhythm through intentional calendaring and prioritizing family.Show Notes:00:00 Welcome and Introductions01:45 GBN Roots and Career Path02:42 Golf Exchange in Wales03:19 Ben and Jerry's Beginnings05:33 Service First Philosophy06:59 Growing Up in a BnB09:08 Skiing Outdoors and Family11:22 Choosing Clemson PGM13:57 Mentorship at a Big Club17:33 Culture Visibility and Trust21:35 Feedback and Early Fixes26:37 Preparing for Big Events27:15 Tournament Checklists28:35 Clear Expectations Culture30:39 Turnover And Knowledge32:45 Debriefs And Traditions35:13 Values Over Opinions37:43 Emotional Intelligence Skills42:33 Making People Feel Welcome47:03 Future Hospitality Community51:56 Visibility To Responsiveness58:01 Advice For Young Pros58:43 AI As Practice Partner01:04:59 Work Life Rhythm01:12:02 Final Takeaways 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.

April 8, 2026Episode 51 hr 5 min

Driving Revenue in the Golf Shop with Charles Beurmann | Episode 1205

CONTACT GBN: https://golfbusinessnetwork.com/contact-us-form/Taylor Ramiz interviews Charles Beurmann, Director of Golf at the Cullasaja Club, about his career path through private clubs and his focus on merchandising. Beurmann describes how club retail has evolved toward dedicated merchandisers as shopping habits changed, and emphasizes relationship-based selling and knowing member demographics, tastes, and sizes. He shares tactics including member surveys and ongoing feedback, buying mostly proven sellers with limited risk, training staff through wearing and learning product, and using employees as “mannequins.” He outlines visual merchandising tips (themes, props, crisp folding, hiding tags), rotating displays by shop zones every 1–2 weeks, reacting quickly to slow movers, leveraging tournaments/tee gifts and member-only items to introduce brands, and managing seasonal inventory and deliveries.Show Notes:00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:26 Career Journey in Golf02:39 Why Merchandising Matters03:59 Rise of the Merchandiser Role08:55 Mentors and Buying Lessons10:56 Shop Differences by Market12:44 Selling Through Inventory14:59 Member Feedback and Surveys21:43 Staff as Walking Mannequins24:49 Training the Retail Team30:15 Visual Merchandising Displays33:07 Seasonal Theme Displays34:08 Sell the Why35:30 Staff Engagement Tips37:30 Rotate Zones Weekly41:47 Fix Slow Sellers Fast43:17 Events and Tee Gifts49:14 Member Only Promotions52:32 Seasonal Closeout Plan55:23 Know Your Buyers59:18 Stock Fill Repeat01:00:32 Final Advice and Wrap 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.

March 10, 2026Episode 41 hr 9 min

Serving with Purpose with Hill Herrick | Episode 1204

Live from the PGA Show, Spencer Clouatre interviews PGA professional Hill Herrick, longtime director of golf at The Greenbrier, about his career path and decades-long tenure there, plus his lifelong passion for playing French horn. Herrick contrasts the old, travel-heavy PGA training and pre-computer operations with today’s technology-driven education, instruction, tournaments, and booming retail. They also discuss The Greenbrier’s history, its Cold War congressional bunker, and relationships with figures like Sam Snead and Tom Watson. Herrick highlights challenges including declining service, high turnover, and whether simulators and entertainment golf will pull players away from outdoor golf, urging professionals to keep the human element, keep learning, and take accountability.00:00 Live at PGA Show01:09 Music and French Horn03:01 Life at Greenbrier04:07 Golf Beginnings06:44 PGA Membership Path08:19 Pre Internet Golf Ops10:10 Mentors and Early Jobs10:49 Work Ethic Roots12:03 Why Stay at Greenbrier15:08 Greenbrier History19:02 Cold War Bunker Story23:56 Golf Industry Changes26:34 Ryder Cup Evolution29:12 Next Gen Golf Pros34:03 Trends and Tech Ahead35:20 PGA Show Growth35:34 Cart Tech Upgrades35:52 Associations And Education37:21 Tech Versus Service39:33 Turnover And Burnout41:31 Service Standards Culture44:23 Simulators Threat Or Gateway46:09 Too Much Lesson Data54:02 Advice For New Pros01:00:37 Mission Standards And Training01:03:43 Human Element Finale 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.

February 16, 2026Episode 31 hr 0 min

Growing through Relationships with Alex Hoyos | Episode 1203

In this episode of the GBN University Podcast, host Spencer Clouatre interviews Alex Hoyos, the head golf professional at Essex County Club. Alex shares his unconventional path from being a music major at Florida Atlantic University to becoming a respected figure in the golf industry. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the value of networking, and the lessons learned from his experiences at top clubs like Trump International Golf Club, Deepdale, and East Hampton. Alex also delves into how he balances personal and professional life, highlighting the support from his wife Haley, and provides valuable advice for aspiring golf professionals.Show Notes:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:50 Alex's Early Career and Achievements02:48 Alex's Background and Passion for Golf04:15 Transition from Baseball to Golf06:25 Musical Influence on Golf09:07 Mentorship and Career Growth15:59 Networking and Creating Opportunities27:45 The Importance of Trust and Performance29:04 Navigating Career Opportunities and Transitions31:24 Choosing the Northeast: A Personal and Professional Journey33:08 Meeting Haley: A Life-Changing Encounter38:12 Building a Strong Team Culture49:33 Advice for the Next Generation of Professionals49:59 The Power of Networking and Mentorship56:00 Final Thoughts and Gratitude 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.

January 27, 2026Episode 253 min

Branding & Buying in Golf Retail with Emily Gifford | Episode 1202

In this episode of the GBN University Podcast, new guest host Taylor Ramiz, the golf shop manager at Manasqua River, introduces a new segment focusing on all aspects of merchandising. Taylor highlights her untraditional journey into the golf industry and the importance of relationships and timing in her career. She then welcomes Emily Gifford, the Director of Retail at Boca West Country Club, who shares her extensive experience and insights into the world of golf retail. Emily discusses her background, marketing strategies, adjusting to different club environments, and the importance of understanding member profiles. The episode also touches on merchandise selection, consulting in the golf industry, and the rise of pickleball. Emily provides valuable advice for aspiring professionals, emphasizing problem anticipation and member engagement.00:00 Introduction to the GBN University Podcast00:35 Taylor Ramiz's Journey into the Golf Industry02:24 From Membership Services to Golf Enthusiast04:25 Welcoming Emily Gifford: Director of Retail at Boca West04:46 Emily Gifford's Path to Retail Management07:32 Transitioning from Traditional to Modern Golf Shops12:37 Managing Multiple Retail Outlets at Boca West15:57 The Rise of Pickleball and Its Impact on Retail20:54 Adapting to Seasonal Buying Patterns26:00 Gathering Member Feedback28:23 VIP Member Program30:37 Consulting in the Golf Industry32:30 Handling Sales Reps and Vendor Relationships42:38 Exploring New Brands and Merchandise49:13 Final Thoughts and Advice 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.

January 12, 2026Episode 150 min

Impactful Leadership with Jim Smith Jr | Episode 1201

In this episode of the GBN University Podcast, guest host Steve Scott sits down with Jim Smith Jr., Director of Golf and COO of the Philadelphia Cricket Club. Smith discusses his career journey, leadership philosophy, and experiences in hosting major golf events, sharing insights on the importance of being a straight shooter, the value of mentoring, and the significance of work-life balance for his staff. Known for his innovative approach to staffing, such as implementing a four-day work week, Jim's focus remains on making his team happy to enhance overall productivity. He also reflects on his contributions to the Philadelphia PGA section and offers advice to aspiring golf professionals.Show Notes:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:16 Meet Jim Smith Jr.00:58 Jim's Straight-Shooting Mentality02:22 12 Rounds of Golf in 12 Hours03:48 Jim's Upbringing and Influences04:51 Career Beginnings and Mentorship09:45 Hosting Major Golf Events14:14 The Benefits of Hosting Major Events16:32 Roles and Responsibilities During Events18:25 The Importance of Professional Growth18:32 Managing Golf Course Operations During Events19:13 Volunteerism and Reciprocity in Golf Clubs20:30 Award-Winning Leadership and Staff Management21:03 Implementing a Four-Day Work Week21:48 The Philosophy of Happy Employees27:08 Creating a Positive Impression31:53 Mentorship and Career Development36:25 Traits of Successful Golf Professionals41:16 Leadership Beyond the Club45:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections 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.

December 23, 2025Episode 1351 min

Building Deep Connections with Christopher Dymek | Episode 1113

In this episode of the GBN University Podcast, guest host Steve Scott speaks with Chris Dymek, the head golf professional at Manasquan River Golf Club. They discuss a wide range of topics, including building a family-first team culture, enhancing member experiences, and innovative tournament operations. Chris shares his journey into the golf business, his leadership and mentorship philosophy, and how he creates engaging and memorable experiences for club members. They also explore strategies for building strong member relationships, handling challenging situations, and fostering an effective and cohesive team environment.SHOW NOTES:00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview00:34 Sponsorship Message01:15 Chris Dymek's Early Life and Career Beginnings03:14 Transition to Manasquan River05:07 Leadership and Member Relations08:36 Playing the Game and Professional Development17:01 Travel Experiences and Member Engagement21:33 Merchandising and Business Strategies23:53 Handling Difficult Situations with Members26:44 The Importance of Giving Back29:25 Encouraging Staff Involvement32:01 Innovative Tournament Operations36:53 Maximizing Event Participation39:30 Building a Family Environment with Staff46:44 Key Leadership Traits for Golf Professionals48:45 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis episode of the GBN University Podcast is brought to you by Land and Links.Land and Links creates effortless, curated golf trips to the country’s most premier destinations. Their expert team handles every detail so you can focus purely on playing your best golf and making memories.Whether you’re a Golf Professional planning the perfect member trip or an avid golfer organizing an epic group getaway, Land and Links takes care of the heavy lifting and makes planning simple.Ready for your next unforgettable golf trip? Visit landandlinks.com 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.

December 9, 2025Episode 121 hr 8 min

The Path to Continuous Improvement with Casey Brozek | Episode 1112

In this episode of the GBN University Podcast, host Spencer Clouatre welcomes Casey Brozek, the Director of Golf at Medinah Country Club. They discuss Casey's impressive career journey, which spans from being a junior golf champion to his current role overseeing major renovations and preparing for the President's Cup. Key themes include leadership presence, the importance of effective communication, managing large events, nurturing young golf professionals, and maintaining work-life balance. Casey shares insights from his experiences at various prestigious golf clubs and emphasizes the significance of mentorship, team-building, and giving back to the profession.Show Notes:00:00 Welcome and Introduction02:06 Casey's Early Career and Education04:14 Transition to Professional Golf06:20 Teaching and Mentorship08:29 Leadership and Professional Growth19:53 Medina Country Club and Major Events32:02 Reflecting on the Ryder Cup and Team Dynamics32:49 Challenges of International Team Events34:27 Crowd Control and Sportsmanship in Golf37:58 Mentorship and Leadership in Golf45:15 Handling Failure and Learning from Mistakes50:53 Building a Strong Team and Recruitment59:53 Balancing Work and Personal Life01:04:30 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts 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.

November 12, 2025Episode 111 hr 21 min

Doing the Right Thing with Doug Bell | Episode 1111

In this special episode of GBN University podcast, host Spencer Clouatre interviews his close friend Doug Bell, a PGA professional and general manager at American Dunes Golf Club. They discuss Doug's career journey in the golf industry, his role at American Dunes, and the touching connections through Folds of Honor that have impacted their lives. This episode is rich with stories of dedication, moral integrity, and the importance of doing the right thing.Learn more about Folds of Honor and American Dunes Golf Club at the links below.Folds of Honor: https://foldsofhonor.org/American Dunes: https://americandunesgolfclub.com/00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:44 Doug Bell's Background and Achievements03:22 The Story of Jeff Davis05:44 Hannah Davis and Folds of Honor16:40 Doug Bell's Journey to American Dunes28:37 The Emotional Impact of American Dunes42:06 The Intersection of Preparation and Opportunity42:47 Navigating the Golf Industry's Labor Market46:32 The Importance of Social Skills in the Golf Industry48:59 The Value of Personal Connections and Mentorship50:31 A Memorable Golf Trip with Blake52:34 Lessons from Shoal Creek01:03:26 Transitioning from PGA Pro to General Manager01:12:13 The Role of Trust and Relationships in the Golf Industry01:14:29 Closing Thoughts and Reflections 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.