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

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries at a staggering pace, with nonprofit leaders now facing the same challenges and opportunities as their corporate counterparts. According to a Harvard Business Review study of 100 companies deploying generative AI, four strategic archetypes are emerging—ranging from bold innovators to disciplined integrators. For nonprofits, the stakes are even higher: harnessing…

Ryen Russillo’s decision to launch his own production company—while tapping Barstool for investment, distribution, and commercialization—lands squarely in the middle of a larger shift: audiences are following personalities more than platforms, and the business is finally catching up. For years, Russillo has been a fixture at the top of the sports podcast charts, first…

Career development no longer follows the predictable “ladder” of past decades. A 2024 Gallup analysis revealed that younger workers are increasingly disengaged from traditional career paths and instead seek purpose, flexibility, and balance in how they define success. Careers today move sideways, backward, and forward—more like a lattice than a ladder—requiring resilience, adaptability, and…