430: Turning Low Attendance into High Impact Experiences w/ Chef Andrew Haapala

Private Club Radio Show

Content provided by Denny Corby. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Denny Corby or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

2M ago 17:59

MP3•Episode home

What happens when the turnout is low, the plan isn’t working, and canceling the event feels like the easiest option?

If you’re Chef Andrew Haapala, you pivot. You turn the dining room into a chef’s table. You bring the members into the kitchen. And you make it an experience they’ll never forget.

In this episode, Andrew, Executive Chef at The Country Club of Virginia, shares how one slow night became an unexpected win—not just for the members, but for his team.

We talk about:

How creative thinking turns a problem into an opportunity
Why showing up for the few can mean more than serving the many
The importance of having a team that’s ready to adapt on the fly
What leadership looks like behind the line—especially when plans change

Andrew’s leadership style is thoughtful, real, and rooted in trust. This episode is a great listen for chefs, F&B pros, and any club leader who knows that the best experiences sometimes come from the least expected moments.

Follow us on the socials

Private Club Radio Instagram
Private Club Radio Linkedin
Denny Corby Instagram
Denny Corby Linkedin

Chapters

1. Private Club Radio Show Chef's Dinner (00:00:00)

2. Creating Memorable Culinary Experiences (00:12:54)

449 episodes

#Clubmanagement #Golfbusiness #Golfindustry #Privateclubradio #Denny Corby #Business #MBA #Careers #Society #Conversations