Advertise on podcast: Crushing Club Marketing

Episode Summary: In this episode, Ed sits down with Tom Wallace of Kopplin, Kuebler & Wallace to unpack why governance often breaks down during leadership transitions at private clubs. Drawing from his experience facilitating hundreds of board retreats, Tom shares a clear benchmark: only about 25% of clubs have governance truly dialed in. The conversation explores stewardship versus short-term decision-making, the importance of structure over personality, and how written systems, succession planning, and member communication protect a club's mission, vision, and values. It's a grounded, practical discussion on how strong governance is built intentionally and sustained over time. Key Moments: *]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "96be3759-520c-432d-b7ad-d6b56181bb53" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> Why only a quarter of clubs are truly prepared Tom explains how clubs tend to fall into three groups: those with governance fully structured, those actively working toward it, and those stuck in a cycle of dysfunction where each new president resets priorities. Stewardship over "leaving a mark" The conversation highlights how strong presidents think like stewards, focused on long-term health rather than personal projects or visible wins during their term. A leadership lesson from Arnold Palmer Tom shares a story from his time at Oakmont that shaped his philosophy on leadership: clubs existed long before any one leader and will continue long after, making long-term thinking essential. When governance goes wrong, it shows up physically An example of a clubhouse filled with rooms named after past presidents illustrates what happens when guardrails are missing and decisions are made in isolation. The intersection of member culture and staff culture Tom explains that the strongest clubs are built where member culture and team culture align, and why governance plays a critical role in keeping those cultures connected. Early warning signs of governance drift Ignoring data, lacking a strategic plan, or focusing on short-term issues are all indicators that governance may be quietly eroding before problems surface publicly. Why structure protects everyone From strategic business plans to board policy manuals and orientations, Tom outlines the written systems that stabilize clubs through leadership transitions. "If it's not written down, it doesn't exist" A Ritz-Carlton principle reinforces why documentation and clarity are essential, not bureaucratic, in complex organizations like private clubs. Governance as guardrails, not handcuffs Tom compares good governance to bumper bowling: it doesn't guarantee perfect outcomes, but it prevents leaders from sending the club off course. How to spot a strategic board What boards talk about matters. Strategy, capital planning, and long-term direction signal health; operational minutiae signal trouble. Succession planning as a leadership responsibility Strong clubs know who their future presidents are well before transitions happen, creating continuity rather than disruption. Committees as the leadership pipeline Tom explains why committees should serve as the proving ground for future board members, with performance and collaboration guiding recruitment. Younger members and the owner mindset The episode explores how clubs must intentionally teach stewardship and volunteer expectations during member onboarding to avoid transactional relationships. Why board retreats accelerate alignment Tom closes by sharing how retreats create self-awareness, clarity, and a realistic multi-year roadmap, reinforcing that good governance is a process, not a one-time fix.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Ed sits down with industry leader Kris Butterfield Cance to explore one of the most urgent challenges facing private clubs today: generational transition. From outdated bylaws to evolving member expectations, Kris breaks down what clubs must rethink if they want to stay relevant and financially healthy in the next decade. She shares practical examples from her work at Bethesda Country Club and La Cumbre Country Club, offering a front-row view of what successful evolution looks like. This conversation is a candid, realistic look at how clubs can honor legacy while creating space for the future. Key Moments: 3:20 — Why Kris wrote her Boardroom Magazine piece Kris explains the conversations and frustrations she heard at PCMA that inspired her to address generational stagnation head-on. 5:15 — What younger generations actually want from clubs From flexible programming to redefining tradition, Kris breaks down what Gen X, Y, and Z members value in club experiences. 7:55 — Balancing legacy expectations with modern needs Ed and Kris discuss how clubs can preserve tradition while adapting formats, events, and amenities. 10:05 — Community as the real differentiator A look at why everyday experiences—card rooms, family zones, outdoor gathering spaces—matter more than once-a-year blowout events. 12:25 — The financial urgency behind generational transition Kris and Ed dive into wait lists, initiation fee trends, and the wealth transfer that will shape clubs through 2045. 14:10 — How one traditional club successfully modernized Kris shares the transformation at Bethesda and how they rebalanced their member demographic. 17:50 — The importance of board clarity: mission, vision, values Kris explains why cultural alignment must start in the boardroom and how clubs can implement practical systems. 22:20 — Transparency without oversharing They unpack the difference between healthy transparency and giving members unnecessary or harmful detail. 26:55 — What data reveals about actual member behavior Kris explains how usage patterns—not just event attendance—should inform decision-making. 31:00 — Should younger families "skip the line"? Kris addresses the controversial question of whether clubs should prioritize young applicants over older prospects. 34:40 — Final takeaway: Relevance over replacement Kris closes with the core truth: clubs don't need to choose one generation over another; they need to stay relevant to all.

The role of the General Manager is evolving — and so are the expectations of private club leadership. In this episode, Ed Heil sits down with Joel Livingood, General Manager and COO of Interlachen Country Club, to unpack how mission, culture, and governance are redefining what it means to lead a modern club. Joel shares how Interlachen turned alignment into its greatest strength — guiding nearly a decade of growth, investment, and transformation. From establishing clear governance with the board to building a culture of empowerment among 400 team members, his approach offers a blueprint for sustainable leadership in today's complex club environment. Summary: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Interlachen's Transformation Ed and Joel discuss Interlachen's decade of change, from major renovations to family-focused investments and restored golf facilities. 03:45 Finding Direction After 2008 Joel explains how recovery began with defining the club's mission and values — the foundation for every decision that followed. 06:45 Balancing Heritage and Progress How Interlachen honored its legacy while adapting to the expectations of modern members. 09:20 Turning Mission into Action The club's mission to "enrich members' lives through outstanding championship golf and family experiences" becomes the guide for culture and operations. 12:30 Embedding Values Across the Club Tradition, excellence, innovation, and stewardship influence hiring, culture, and communication. 15:10 Building the Interlachen Brand Joel discusses intentional storytelling, brand consistency, and how the club communicates its values internally and externally. 18:30 Leading a 400+ Person Team The power of showing up, removing roadblocks, and building a workplace rooted in purpose and growth. 21:10 Empathy as a Leadership Skill Why understanding team members' lives beyond work has strengthened culture and retention. 24:50 Governance and Board Alignment How defining roles between board and management turned governance into a strategic advantage. 28:00 Accountability and Trust Why results, transparency, and shared goals have built long-term trust at Interlachen. 31:15 High Standards, Honest Expectations Setting clear expectations for excellence without shying away from the difficulty of achieving it. 34:10 Managing Board Involvement and Feedback Joel's three strategies for addressing operational overreach and maintaining collaboration. 37:10 The Evolving Role of the GM How today's leaders balance visibility, focus, and flexibility in an increasingly complex club world. 40:10 Advice for Emerging Leaders Joel's three essentials: work hard, stay positive, and adapt quickly. 42:10 Why Business Fundamentals Still Matter Joel explains why today's club leaders must think like business operators and treat experience as the product.

In this episode, Ed Heil and Jason Becker discuss the insights from the Golf Life Navigators mid-year report, focusing on trends in private club memberships, generational shifts, and the integration of real estate with golf communities. They explore the importance of understanding consumer preferences, the impact of service-based amenities, and the financial health of clubs in a changing market. Summary: 00:00 Introduction and Background on Golf Life Navigators 02:59 Understanding the Mid-Year Report and Its Importance 06:01 Generational Trends in Private Club Membership 09:01 Transition Times and Market Dynamics 11:59 Demographics of Golf Life Navigators Users 14:59 Real Estate Integration with Private Clubs 17:55 Shifts in Preferences for Gated Communities 21:02 Lifestyle Amenities and Member Preferences 23:58 The Role of On-Site Brokers 27:00 Trends in Food, Beverage, and Health Amenities 30:00 Golf-Specific Trends and Member Interests 32:55 The Importance of Clubs Within Clubs 35:48 Future Trends and Service-Based Amenities 38:52 Financial Health of Clubs and Membership Models

Private clubs are no longer just competing with each other for talent—they're competing with every employer offering a flexible, supportive work environment. In this episode, Ed Heil talks with Meridith Picarelli-Khattar, Certified Club Manager and Certified Chief Executive, about what it really takes to build a team that delivers exceptional member experiences. Drawing from over 20 years in club leadership, Meridith shares why investing in people-first policies like parental leave, flexible scheduling, and employee development is no longer optional—it's essential. If your club is thinking about how to retain top talent while staying true to its values, this episode offers practical, thoughtful guidance you won't want to miss.

In this conversation, Ed Heil and Steve Mulholland discuss the intricacies of video production, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and understanding the audience's needs. They explore how to capture the essence of a club through various filming techniques, including documentary styles and the use of drones. The discussion also covers the significance of finding the right voices for interviews and mastering the art of conducting them effectively. In this conversation, Ed Heil and Steve Mulholland delve into the intricacies of video production, focusing on the art of cinematography, the emotional impact of storytelling in sports, the crucial role of music, and the importance of editing. They share insights on how to effectively capture compelling visuals, the significance of sound in enhancing viewer experience, and the challenges of editing to create a cohesive narrative. The discussion also touches on practical advice for aspiring producers, emphasizing the need for collaboration and clarity in messaging.   00:00: The Importance of Story in Video Production 05:52: Capturing the Essence of Your Club 12:05: Finding the Right Voices for Your Message 18:02: The Role of B-Roll and Aerial Shots 24:23: The Art of Cinematography 30:30: The Role of Music in Video Production 37:17: Editing: The Heart of Storytelling

Private clubs often pride themselves on tradition—but without strong governance, even the most respected institutions can find themselves unprepared for what's ahead. In this data-driven conversation, Ed Heil talks with Joseph Abely, Executive Consultant at Club Benchmarking and lead author of the Club Benchmarking 2025 Governance Report. Rather than offering surface-level advice, Joe draws on insights from over 400 clubs to reveal what actually moves the needle: board education, succession planning, and long-term strategic thinking. The findings are clear—clubs that prioritize these elements don't just function more smoothly; they outperform their peers financially and operationally. If your board meetings are focused on operational fixes instead of future vision, this episode is your wake-up call.

What defines value in today's private club? It's not the square footage of your dining room or how fast your greens roll—it's how your members feel when they engage with your club. In this episode, Ed Heil is joined by Dr. Bonnie Knutson, professor at Michigan State University's School of Hospitality Business and longtime private club member. Together, they explore why exclusivity isn't the draw it once was, how member experience now drives perceived value, and what progressive clubs are doing to evolve with generational expectations. From redefining reputation to creating "Instagrammable" moments, Bonnie shares research-backed insights and memorable metaphors that will challenge how you think about membership, communication, and strategic planning. Whether you're managing daily operations or setting long-term vision, this episode offers a roadmap for making your club not just relevant—but irresistible.

No club is immune to crisis, but most are unprepared when it strikes. In this episode, Ed Heil is joined by Andy Skoogman, a seasoned crisis communications expert with a background in law enforcement, media, and private clubs. Together, they discuss the common misconceptions club leaders have about crisis situations, what effective planning actually looks like, and why managing internal communication is just as important as handling the public response. Whether it's a media incident, a member conflict, or something more serious, this conversation sheds light on what clubs can do today to be better prepared tomorrow Key Moments: Andy's Background in Crisis Communication [00:00:00] – From journalism to military media training to law enforcement, Andy shares how his career shaped his crisis communication expertise. A Lifelong Connection to Private Clubs [00:04:00] – Andy reflects on growing up golfing with his father and why he chose to raise his own kids in a private club environment. Common Misconceptions About Crisis Planning [00:07:30] – Andy outlines the three biggest myths leaders believe about crises: it won't happen, others will handle it, and you can't plan for it. Real-World Examples of Club Crises [00:11:00] – From tragic accidents to internal disputes, Andy explains how crises at clubs take many forms—most without media coverage. Risk Management Through a Communications Lens [00:14:00] – Why crisis planning can't be left to legal teams alone, and how to look at risk from a PR standpoint. The Speed of Crisis in the Digital Age [00:16:30] – How social media has changed the game, and why clubs need to respond faster than ever before. Choosing the Right Spokesperson [00:20:00] – Why credibility, clarity, and media training matter more than titles when selecting someone to represent the club. Balancing Transparency and Legal Advice [00:24:00] – Why withholding information often backfires—and the case for addressing bad news head-on. Internal Communication Builds Credibility [00:28:00] – Andy shares how consistent member communication builds trust long before a crisis occurs. Club Governance Challenges [00:32:00] – Volunteer boards, dues increases, and why the club communication structure can break down under pressure. Taking Action: Where Club Leaders Should Start [00:36:00] – Practical next steps: scenario planning, identifying spokespeople, and media training for key staff. Final Thoughts on Reputation and Readiness [00:40:00] – Why club reputation is more vulnerable than ever—and why preparation makes all the difference.      

In this episode of Crushing Club Marketing, Ed Heil sits down with Jodie Cunningham, owner of Optimus Talent Partners and a certified Predictive Index partner, to explore how behavioral assessments can revolutionize hiring in the private club industry. Drawing on her years of experience, Jodie shares practical insights on building stronger teams, aligning talent with culture, and avoiding costly hiring mistakes. From understanding your club's identity to using data to navigate generational differences, this conversation is packed with strategic takeaways for club leaders who want to elevate their recruitment approach and enhance the member experience. Key Moments: Meet Jodie Cunningham (00:00:00): Ed Heil introduces Jodie Cunningham, owner of Optimus Talent Partners and certified Predictive Index partner, with a background in HR at the Four Seasons and St. Louis Rams, highlighting her expertise in behavioral science and talent strategy. Culture Drives Member Experience (00:04:03): Jodie emphasizes that culture is shaped by the people you hire, making talent selection critical; the Four Seasons' process, where every candidate met the GM, shows how seriously they took cultural fit (00:05:06). What Clubs Often Miss in Team Building (00:06:12): Many clubs lack a strategic HR lead and jump into hiring without first defining their needs, leading to reactive, short-term decisions (00:07:13). Proactive Recruiting Strategies (00:07:13): Jodie encourages clubs to go beyond job postings by branding themselves as employers of choice and building pipelines through schools and networks; recruiting should be a shared responsibility, not just HR's job (00:08:06, 00:08:58). Knowing Your Club's Identity (00:09:52): Clubs must understand their environment—formal or informal—so they can hire people who thrive in that setting, especially if they're going through change (00:10:55). Common Hiring Pitfalls (00:12:50): Reactive hiring, relying on resumes instead of fit, and unconscious bias are all common issues; resumes show where someone has worked, not how well they'll perform (00:14:37). Why Use Assessments (00:15:37): Assessments give insight into how candidates will collaborate, lead, and fit into your team, revealing traits that interviews often miss (00:16:38, 00:17:22). Don't Over-Rely on Assessments (00:18:15): Assessments are helpful tools, but people can flex in roles temporarily; Jodie warns against using them as excuses for underperformance (00:19:17, 00:20:55). Use Assessments Beyond Hiring (00:21:40): Jodie recommends using assessments for onboarding, feedback, conflict resolution, and succession planning to strengthen team communication and performance. When to Use Assessments (00:23:18): Ideally, assessments are used during the application stage, but timing depends on cost and length; even refusal to take one can offer insight (00:24:20, 00:25:07, 00:27:00). Fair, Valid, and Legal (00:27:45): Use scientifically validated assessments and create objective job targets to ensure fairness, reduce bias, and stay compliant. Picking the Right Tool (00:29:32): Clubs should identify their goals, weigh the cost of a bad hire, and evaluate tools based on pricing model, ease of use, length, and available support (00:31:21, 00:32:18, 00:33:08). The Predictive Index (PI) (00:47:48): PI helps clubs align hiring, onboarding, and performance with a common language; it's quick to complete and offers individualized behavioral profiles (00:48:37, 00:49:41). Getting Started with Assessments (00:50:40): Jodie suggests piloting assessments on 3–5 candidates for a key role to test how it fits into your process before a full rollout. The High Cost of a Bad Hire (00:52:14): Poor hires cost more than money—they impact morale and culture; understanding your team and embracing change are key to long-term success (00:53:22). Generational Insight Through Data (00:54:09): Assessments help leaders adapt their style to different generations and better understand their own strengths and gaps (00:55:56). Sharing Assessment Results (00:43:36): While candidate data isn't typically shared, employees can request access; cognitive data should remain confidential, but internal transparency supports stronger teams (00:45:13, 00:46:04).

Episode Description In this episode, Ed sits down with Bret, an expert in change management and communication, to discuss why successful club transformations depend not just on strategy but on how change is communicated. They explore the unique challenges of implementing change in private clubs, the importance of transparency, and how leaders can effectively manage member expectations. From capital improvements to governance restructuring, Bret shares insights on how clubs can proactively shape the narrative, overcome resistance, and drive meaningful progress. Key Moments: The Heart of Change Management [00:00:37] – Bret explains why communication—not technology or funding—is the key factor in whether change initiatives succeed or fail. Why Private Clubs Face Unique Challenges [00:08:46] – Unlike corporations, clubs are often governed by boards and have emotionally invested members, making consensus-driven decision-making essential. Transparency and the Rumor Mill [00:14:06] – The importance of addressing potential changes early and openly to avoid misinformation and resistance. The Role of Vision in Driving Change [00:19:27] – How club leaders can frame their messaging around a long-term vision that aligns with the club's mission and values. Multi-Channel Communication Strategies [00:23:13] – The necessity of using multiple platforms—email, in-person meetings, social media, and club signage—to reinforce key messages. Managing Resistance: What's in It for Me? [00:33:15] – How clubs can effectively communicate the direct benefits of changes to both long-time and newer members. Setting Realistic Expectations and Timelines [00:36:07] – Why major club transformations often require a two-to-three-year horizon, and how leaders can manage expectations while maintaining momentum. Lessons from the Chicago Board of Trade [00:38:53] – Bret shares a case study on how clear, honest communication helped execute a large-scale transformation successfully. Final Thoughts on Change Leadership [00:44:06] – Why inspiring members and staff to embrace change is just as important as the change itself.

Episode Description In this episode, we chat with Jackie Singleton and Kristen LaCount from The Country Club about their approach to club communications. From the evolution of their communications department to managing capital project messaging, they share practical insights on building member trust through transparent, consistent communication across multiple channels. Learn how they've developed a culture where communication is prioritized at every level and how they effectively manage messaging for major club initiatives. Key Moments: Setting the Stage [00:00:25]: Ed introduces Jackie and Kristen, discussing how The Country Club stands out with a dedicated communications team. Communications Evolution [00:01:17]: Jackie explains how club communications has grown from a unique position to an industry-standard role with its own CMAA summit. Early Communications Efforts [00:05:06]: Discussion of how the communications role originated around 2006-2007, initially to handle website needs and online reservations for curling events. Communications Channels [00:08:58]: Jackie outlines their primary communication methods including website, email, push notifications, and strategic use of printed materials. Member Segmentation [00:10:23]: Insights into their email segmentation strategy implemented in 2013-2014, allowing members to opt in/out of various interest-based communications. Capital Project Communication [00:12:31]: Kristen describes their approach to major project communications, emphasizing committee representation and strategic messaging. Campus Conversations [00:16:41]: Jackie shares how they created a dedicated website section for capital planning information to combat rumors and provide easy access to facts. Video Production Approach [00:37:39]: Discussion of their video strategy focusing on authenticity over polish, producing 200-250 videos annually using simple equipment. Squirrel Squad [00:34:34]: How they use different social media approaches for members versus employees, including their famous "Squirrel Squad" initiative for staff recruitment and culture building. Tactical Advice [00:55:09]: Jackie provides practical starting points for clubs looking to enhance communications, including coordinating departmental emails and establishing a consistent club voice. Philosophical Approach [00:52:01]: Kristen offers strategic guidance on building support for communications initiatives by benchmarking against other successful clubs and finding internal champions. Budget Reality [00:49:38]: Jackie notes that their communications budget is approximately 2% of overall club spending, primarily on labor rather than technology or external services.

In this episode, Ed talks with Jason Becker, CEO and founder of Golf Life Navigators, about emerging trends in private club membership and why clubs should prepare for higher-than-normal attrition rates. Jason shares insights from his company's extensive data collection and explains why the real estate market is a crucial indicator for private club membership trends. Key Moments: Setting the Stage [00:00:00]: Ed introduces the current state of private clubs, noting that over half still maintain waitlists with an average of 70 people. Golf Life Navigators Overview [00:03:26]: Jason explains how his platform matches prospective members with clubs using a dating app-like algorithm to reduce attrition rates. Waitlist Dynamics [00:05:27]: Discussion of consumer attitudes toward waitlists, revealing that 70% of prospects don't want to wait more than six months for membership. Real Estate Connection [00:08:15]: Jason explains why the increasing inventory of golf community homes signals coming changes in club membership. Attrition Predictions [00:09:23]: Analysis of why attrition rates might exceed pre-pandemic levels, particularly due to delayed resignations from older members. Member Services Evolution [00:15:13]: Exploration of how clubs need to align service levels with increased initiation fees and focus on time-saving amenities. Demographic Shifts [00:16:52]: Discussion of how clubs must cater to multiple generations while building for the future. Real Estate Strategy [00:21:11]: Jason shares insights on community "capture rates" and how clubs can better control their real estate destiny. Sales Process Evolution [00:25:35]: Examination of why modern membership directors need proper CRM systems and marketing automation. Final Insights [00:29:21]: Jason emphasizes the importance of transparency in club planning and investment strategies.

In this episode, we chat with Dave Porter, CEO and GM of Greystone Golf and Country Club, about how he transformed his club's governance from a traditional committee-based structure to a CEO-led model. Dave shares his journey of building trust, empowering staff, and creating a more efficient decision-making process that's helping the club thrive. Key Moments: Setting the Stage [00:00:00]: Ed introduces the challenges of traditional club governance and why change is needed in today's competitive landscape. The Early Days at Greystone [00:05:01]: Dave discusses his initial requests when hired, including changing how committees report and operate within the club structure. Building Trust [00:11:05]: Insights into how Dave gradually built trust with members and staff through focus groups, operational changes, and transparent communication. Pandemic Innovations [00:03:48]: Discussion of creative member engagement initiatives during COVID, including the still-popular sunset cart cruises. Committee Evolution [00:15:15]: Dave explains how he streamlined committees from 12 to a more focused structure, making them advisory to management rather than the board. Culture Creation [00:40:23]: Exploration of how the new structure enables better staff culture, using the example of "Wimbledon on the Green" event to show improved interdepartmental cooperation. Leadership Qualities [00:43:54]: Discussion of what GMs should consider before pursuing a CEO model, including risk tolerance and leadership style. Member Communication [00:17:16]: Dave shares his approach to keeping members engaged through informal channels like "Happy Hour with Dave" instead of formal committees. Board Meeting Changes [00:32:40]: How board meetings evolved to become more strategic and focused on big-picture items rather than operational details. Final Thoughts [00:50:34]: Dave emphasizes the importance of staff retention and positive culture in creating sustainable club operations.

In this episode, we talk with Russell Bennett, a professional drone photographer specializing in golf course imagery, about the technical and artistic aspects of capturing courses from above. From licensing requirements to creative techniques, Russ shares insights on how clubs can best utilize drone photography to showcase their facilities. Key Moments: Discussing Drone Sightings [00:03:00]: Before diving in, Russ discusses his perspective of seeing drones in the recent news. Getting Started in Drone Photography [00:03:45]: Russ discusses his transition from marketing to drone photography during COVID, starting with golf courses due to his passion for the game. Course Representation [05:30:00]: Conversation about the importance of quality drone footage in representing a club professionally versus settling for basic aerial shots. Licensing and Regulations [06:30:42]: Overview of FAA Part 107 licensing requirements for commercial drone pilots and important airspace restrictions near airports. Shooting Heights and Techniques [15:08:00]: Insights into flying heights and creative techniques for capturing engaging course footage, including low-altitude shots for dramatic effect. Technical Equipment Insights [17:16:18]: Russ explains different types of drones, focusing on the DJI Mavic Air 2S for cinematic shots and the DJI FPV for dynamic fast-moving footage. Drone Versus Handheld Videography [19:44:00]: Discussing finding a balance between using drone shots versus handheld gimbal shots. Shooting Strategy and Timing [23:16:00]: Details about optimal shooting times, with cinematic footage best captured during golden hour and technical hole-by-hole footage during midday. Working Around Golfers [24:55:00]: Discussion of strategies for filming while the course is active and considerations for capturing footage with or without players present. Multiple Day Advantages [27:12:00]: Discussion of why multiple shooting days are beneficial for capturing the best possible footage and ensuring complete coverage. Investment Value [29:16:00]: Explanation of why professional drone footage is a worthwhile investment for clubs, potentially lasting for years on their website and marketing materials. Questions to Ask a Drone Photographer Before Hiring [31:45:00]: Russ suggests asking photographers for samples of the artist's previous work alongside shot-specific insights. Final Thoughts [32:35:00]: Final thoughts are shared and Russ shares his profile, @birds_eye_film (Instagram), alongside his email: [email protected].