An 18-Hole Attitude Towards Building a Culture of Excellence

 

Building a culture of excellence doesn’t happen by sinking a hole-in-one on the first hole of a golf game; the match isn’t over until completing the 18th hole. Managing a country club is a similar analogy. Building that culture of excellence takes stamina, dedication, and a willingness to achieve the mission.

In today’s fast-paced world, pursuing excellence is becoming increasingly rare. With disruptions like technology and social media diverting workers’ attention, the dedication to truly excel in one’s field is a trait that stands out. A Harvard Business study showed that only 15% of professionals believe they are working at their full potential, highlighting the need for building a culture of excellence.

So, what does it truly mean to create an excellence culture, and how can organizations and individuals embody this principle?

Welcome to Excellence Culture, Presented by Lockton. In this episode, host Matt Brost sits down with Bryant Early, the general manager of Gleneagles Country Club in Plano, Texas. Together, they delve into the intricacies of building and maintaining a culture of excellence, drawing from Bryant’s rich experiences in the private club industry.

Key points of discussion include:

  • The journey from starting as a busser to becoming a general manager
  • The importance of mentorship and learning from every experience
  • The challenges and rewards of striving for excellence in today’s world

Originally from Dayton, Ohio, Bryant Early began his career in the private club industry in 1992. Over the years, he has climbed the ranks, showcasing his dedication to excellence at every step. With a background that includes roles at various prestigious clubs nationwide, Bryant brings knowledge and insights to the table.

Recent Episodes

Workplace flexibility has shifted from a culture debate to a retention lever—especially as more professionals are becoming parents later, right when they’re stepping into mid-management and executive-track roles. Childcare and caregiving logistics don’t just strain families; they strain talent pipelines, and the companies that treat parenting as a “personal issue” are often the same…

The modern workplace is at a crossroads, shaped by the rapid rise of AI, shifting cultural expectations, and increasing pressure on leaders to balance efficiency with humanity. Organizations are being forced to make intentional choices about how they operate, how they lead, and how they invest in their people — choices that will define…

As AI adoption accelerates across industries, leaders are under growing pressure to “do something” with data—often before they’re sure what meaningful action looks like. Research shows that while a majority of executives believe AI will transform their business, far fewer feel confident in their organization’s data readiness or governance to support it responsibly. This gap…