Explore every episode of the podcast Bonita Bay Club's Podcast

Every exceptional golf experience begins with people who genuinely care. That's the cornerstone philosophy shared by EJ, Bonita Bay Club's Director of Golf, who has been crafting unforgettable golf experiences since 1999. 

Throughout our conversation, EJ revealed the thoughtful approach behind Bonita Bay Club's renowned golf program. "If somebody's nice and they care and they want to be there, we can train them to do anything," he explains, highlighting how the right team creates a contagious culture of exceptional service. This people-first mentality extends to how EJ's team supports golfers across all skill levels – from competitive tournament players to social golfers to complete beginners.

For newcomers intimidated by the game, EJ shares his own golf mishaps to reassure them that "there's nothing they can do to a golf ball that every other golfer hasn't done at some point in their journey." The club's golf academy has been transformative, offering private instruction where beginners can learn without feeling observed or judged. Meanwhile, comprehensive tournament programming ensures that there's something for everyone, from highly competitive events to purely social gatherings.

Having overseen five course renovations, EJ offers fascinating insights into golf course architecture and the complex systems beneath the surface that most players never consider. He embraces technological advancements that enhance the member experience, from teaching tools to the recently introduced full swing launch monitors that members can check out.

What truly sets Bonita Bay Club apart is EJ's forward-thinking philosophy: "If you think status quo is okay, you're going to get run over by a freight train." By constantly innovating while maintaining a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the club creates what EJ hopes every visitor experiences – "a feeling of wow, the members of Bonita Bay Club have a special place they can call home."

What makes a club truly special? According to Daniela Jacob, Director of Membership at Bonita Bay Club, it's when members and staff alike describe it as feeling "like home." In this heartfelt conversation, Daniela shares her journey since joining the club 14 months ago and the immediate sense of belonging she experienced from both members and colleagues.

With over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality and member relations, Daniela brings a valuable perspective to her role. She highlights what makes Bonita Bay Club's membership unique - their extraordinary loyalty not just to the club, but to the friendships they've cultivated over years of shared experiences. Some members have called Bonita Bay home for over 34 years, creating a community where members are "extremely happy," according to Daniela.

Perhaps most interesting is Bonita Bay Club's innovative approach to membership waiting lists. Rather than the traditional all-or-nothing model common at prestigious clubs, they've created "progressive golf tiers" that provide immediate golf access at their Naples courses while members wait for full privileges. New members also lock in current initiation fees, providing financial predictability in a region where many clubs don't offer such protections. For those considering membership, Daniela conducts personalized orientation sessions and hosts new member mixers that facilitate connections among recent arrivals.

Discover the Bonita Bay difference - where existing members organically welcome newcomers, the membership committee actively supports the onboarding process, and exceptional amenities include everything from five golf courses to tennis, pickleball, croquet, a lifestyle center, spa and salon, and outstanding dining. Ready to explore membership options or upgrade your current status? Contact Daniela Jacob to begin your journey home to Bonita Bay Club.

What does it take to rise from busboy to Assistant General Manager at one of Florida's premier private clubs? Joseph Elwell's remarkable 22-year journey at Bonita Bay Club reveals the dedication, adaptability, and passion required to excel in club management.

Following in his father's footsteps, Joseph began his hospitality career at just 17 years old, washing dishes and bussing tables at Bonita Bay Club. What started as a test to see if he'd enjoy the industry blossomed into a lifelong vocation. Through rotations across departments—from scraping tennis courts to maintaining golf course bunkers—Joseph gained a holistic understanding of club operations that now serves him well in his leadership role.

As Assistant General Manager, Joseph's responsibilities extend far beyond what members typically see. While food and beverage operations fall under his purview, he also oversees sports and lifestyle amenities including the spa, salon, and fitness facilities. His days are unpredictable, requiring flexibility to address everything from staff conflicts to service issues across the club's extensive amenities.

The club's highly seasonal nature presents unique challenges, with 80% of activity occurring during just six months of the year. Balancing peak-season excellence with year-round value requires careful planning and resource management. Joseph approaches innovation thoughtfully, viewing new technologies as tools to enhance rather than replace human connection. The club's willingness to test new ideas while respecting traditions demonstrates its commitment to evolution without losing its identity.

What truly distinguishes Bonita Bay Club, according to Joseph, is its exceptional people—both the 600+ staff members who deliver memorable experiences and the uniquely warm, genuine membership. With over 240 team members boasting five or more years of tenure, the club has cultivated a culture of excellence that perpetuates itself. 

For those considering a career in club management, Joseph offers straightforward advice: do the work, get your hands dirty, and master each step before moving to the next. His own journey stands as testament to the rewards of this approach.

What happens when a fitness center evolves beyond simply building muscles to creating a complete approach to living better? At Bonita Bay Club, it's nothing short of remarkable.

Tammy Mugavero has spent 25 years transforming fitness at Bonita Bay Club from a modest 5,000-square-foot facility with minimal staff to an award-winning 20,000-square-foot wellness hub employing 43 professionals and attracting 69% of eligible members—far exceeding the industry average. Under her guidance, the center has been named one of America's healthiest clubs and ranked #2 among private club fitness facilities nationwide.

The secret? A balanced approach, Tammy calls "the wellness triangle"—where fitness, nutrition, and mental wellbeing create the foundation for true longevity. "Everyone wants to live longer," Tammy explains, "but you just don't want to rack up the age. You want to live longer, but you want to live a better quality of life."

This philosophy drives the diverse programming at Bonita Bay Club, from personal training and specialized services like Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson's patients to cutting-edge KinoTech assessments that utilize AI to evaluate movement quality, not just capability. Their 23 TPI-certified golf fitness professionals—the largest such team in any US club—bridge the gap between sport performance and injury prevention.

Most compelling is Tammy's story about member Rich Oelkers, who suffered a catastrophic spinal cord injury that left him completely paralyzed. Through determination and consistent work at the fitness center, Rich progressed from being unable to move to walking laps with his walker—embodying Churchill's wisdom that "if you're going through hell, keep going."

Ready to transform your own wellness journey? Visit the Fitness Center to schedule your complimentary KinoTech movement assessment, offered Monday through Friday afternoons, and discover how movement quality can change everything about how you experience life.

For this episode of our Summer Series One-on-One, we sit down with Paula Scheb to discuss her 30-year journey at Bonita Bay Club which reveals how passion and vision can transform a sports program beyond recognition. What began as a modest nine-court tennis facility has evolved into a comprehensive sports complex featuring tennis, pickleball, croquet, and aquatics – all guided by Paula's steady leadership as Director of Sports.

"It was a dream job," Paula reflects, describing how Bonita Bay Club encouraged her team to imagine possibilities and create exceptional experiences. This freedom to innovate, combined with a deeply member-centric philosophy, has created a sports culture that balances competitive opportunities with inclusive environments for players of all levels.

The podcast delves into the delicate art of preserving cherished traditions while embracing fresh approaches. Paula shares exciting plans for the upcoming season, including a remote-control powerboat race, an MLP Davis Cup-style pickleball event, and a wine country-themed tennis tournament. For newcomers intimidated by racket sports, Bonita Bay Club offers structured introductory programs and private lessons, ensuring everyone can find their entry point into these activities.

Perhaps most impressive is the evolution of the Finemark Women's Pro Tennis Championship under Paula's guidance. Now entering its seventh year, this tournament has raised $2.7 million for cancer research for Lee Health.  While earning international recognition, it's the only U.S. tournament among six worldwide to receive an International Tennis Federation star award. Beyond fundraising, the event fulfills Paula's vision of bringing members together and fostering relationships across all levels of the club community.

Throughout our conversation, Paula returns to what makes Bonita Bay Club truly special: its members. "They're our competitive edge," she explains, describing how their kindness, engagement, and philanthropic spirit create an environment where both staff and fellow members thrive. As she looks to the future, Paula continues seeking ways to enhance the club experience through sports, creating opportunities for connection, growth, and enjoyment for all.

Have you experienced Bonita Bay Club's sports offerings? Share your thoughts or questions with us, and consider trying something new this season – whether it's tennis, pickleball, or the increasingly popular croquet program!

Wine Director and Sommelier Melissa Hemingway brings her passionate expertise to this warm, insightful conversation about the evolving world of wine at Bonita Bay Club. After nearly seven years curating exceptional wine experiences, Melissa reveals how member preferences and global travel trends shape the club's diverse wine program.

The spotlight shines on Sicily – Italy's largest wine-producing region – as Melissa's top recommendation for an underappreciated wine destination. Her enthusiasm for Sicilian wines, particularly the special Cerasula di Vittoria (Sicily's only DOCG), reveals her commitment to helping members discover hidden gems that deliver exceptional quality without breaking the bank. For those eager to explore, she recommends readily available producers Planeta and Dona Fugata.

Perhaps most surprising is Melissa's revelation about the explosive growth of non-alcoholic wines. What began as ordering a single case per season has evolved into maintaining six different varieties that consistently sell out. This trend has become so significant that non-alcoholic options will soon have their own dedicated section on the Club's wine list.

Melissa dismantles wine intimidation by encouraging authentic preferences and challenging the assumption that price equals quality. She points out that heavily marketed wines often allocate substantial funds to advertising rather than improving what's in the bottle, while championing small family producers who invest everything into creating exceptional wines without massive marketing campaigns.

The Club's wine list itself reflects Melissa's collaborative philosophy, with 65% of selections coming directly from member suggestions. Her Thirsty Thursday events continue year-round, offering informal education opportunities that become particularly intimate and conversational during summer months.

Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just beginning your wine journey, Melissa's approach invites everyone to explore with confidence. Join us for Thirsty Thursday at 5:00 PM throughout the summer and discover your next favorite bottle with expert guidance from someone who believes wine should delight, not intimidate.

Have you ever wondered how a top-tier tennis tournament comes together? Join us as we chat with Paula Scheb, the Director of Sports at Bonita Bay Club, and get the inside scoop from Tom Weadock, the tournament chair, and his wife, Ann, who coordinates the volunteers. Discover the secrets behind securing crucial sponsorships, the intricate planning process, and the volunteering efforts that make this event a standout. You'll also learn about the high-caliber talent gracing our courts, including past stars like Coco Gauff, and why this tournament is a must-see for tennis enthusiasts and casual fans.

Our episode celebrates the unsung heroes of the Bonita Bay Club—the volunteers. We extend heartfelt gratitude to Tom and Ann Weadock and the entire volunteer team whose tireless dedication sets our club apart. Hear firsthand how volunteers can stay engaged and communicate their needs effectively. This is more than just an event; it's a testament to the supportive community spirit that makes Bonita Bay Club a unique and welcoming environment for everyone. Tune in for a conversation filled with appreciation, insights, and the true essence of community collaboration.

What if there was a community organization that could change the lives of local veterans and their families? Join us for an enlightening and heartwarming episode as we sit down with Valerie Gorman, Nick Romano, and Steve Aronson, the dedicated board members of the Bonita Bay Veterans Council. Celebrate with us as they recount their 10-year journey from a simple Veterans Day speech request to becoming a formidable force in veteran support. Our guests share the inspiring story of how the council started and their unwavering commitment to ensuring that over 98.6% of every dollar received goes directly to veterans in need. You’ll hear about the initial hurdles they faced and how strong community support helped transform their vision into reality.

Get inspired by the touching story of Trooper, the service dog, and learn about the scholarship program benefiting employees in Bonita Bay. With a staggering $2.1 million raised over the past decade, we discuss how you can contribute to this noble cause and become part of this amazing journey. Don’t miss out on this episode that honors the sacrifices of our veterans and showcases the incredible impact of community-driven support.

Every drop of sweat and strategic play on the tennis court tells a story. This time, the narrative is woven by the FineMark Women's Pro Tennis Championship at Bonita Bay Club, where Tom Weadock the Tournament Chair, and Paula Scheb our Director of Sports, take us behind the baseline to reveal the year-long efforts that culminate in this showpiece event. They share heartwarming stories of the 250-strong volunteer army that embodies the club's ethos, and we're all ears as they recount the rise of stars like Coco Gauff and celebrate the charitable milestones that have significantly impacted the Lee Health Cancer Institute. 

We're serving up more than just tennis tales; we're exploring the fabric of community ties strengthened over five years of collaboration. As we listen to the journey of a young hopeful who has transitioned from ball girl to chasing professional dreams, we're reminded of the power of local support. This isn't just about forehands and backhands; it's a story of triumphs, personal battles, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. So, grab your rackets (or headphones) and join us for a heartfelt match point that champions the future of women's tennis and the unwavering spirit of our community.

At Bonita Bay Club, we take pride in our bustling membership and the genuine connections that bind us. Today, you'll hear from Stephanie Glasco, our Membership Director, as she shares the exciting growth of our full golf memberships and gives us the scoop on our extensive waiting list. We're also joined by Rhonda Watton, a dedicated board member and chair of the Membership Committee, who delves into how the Membership Committee curates a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. Terri Pilla, who has been on the Membership Committee for three years, brings to life the interview process for new members and raves about our unbeatable amenities and value. It's a conversation brimming with insights on the personal touches that make our Club a place you want to enjoy with unlimited amenities.

Imagine having your Club's world of amenities at your fingertips with our sophisticated mobile app, making your experience seamless. We discuss the app's features, the relaxed dress code that's made to match our easygoing spirit, and the Passport Program that makes families feel right at home. And for our newest members, we have a special welcome that underscores your importance to the Club's future, with stories highlighting the deep trust and satisfaction our members enjoy. So, join us for a heartfelt and engaging exploration of all that makes Bonita Bay Club not just a club but a way of life.

Discover the art and science of perfecting the greens as our Director of Golf, EJ McDonnell, sits down with golf course operation gurus, Hal Akins and Todd Lowe, for a chat about triumphs and challenges on the links. Hal Akins, our Director of Golf Course Operations and the maestro behind Bonita Bay Club's latest renovations, pulls back the curtain on the much-anticipated  opening of the new driving range and the meticulous Sabal Golf Course makeover. Meanwhile, Todd Lowe, a seasoned agronomy expert and former USGA agronomist, now with Envu, unpacks the complexities of maintaining pristine course conditions under the erratic mood swings of El Niño. Their combined expertise is a treasure trove for anyone keen on learning how to keep the fairways flourishing despite Mother Nature's curveballs.

As we traverse the trials of green recovery post-storm and the science involved in crafting resilient turf, this episode paints a vivid picture of the environmental hurdles from hurricanes to droughts. We delve into the decisions that shape the health of our beloved golf courses, including the regrassing of greens and the impact of unusual weather patterns on soil health. The conversation illuminates the crucial role of moisture management and offers a playbook for battling against the unpredictable elements, ensuring the quality of play remains top-notch. Join us for this insightful session, sprinkled with a hint of holiday cheer, and equip yourself with the know-how to keep the conversation around golf course care both engaging and informed.

This is not just another golf instructional podcast. Our Director of Golf EJ McDonnell, sits down with Jonathan Sutera, the Director of Instruction, and two of the newest pros to join our team of instructors, Jeff Smith and George Puchinsky. In this episode, you will hear unique insights on how new advancements in golf can help your golf game from Jeff, a top 100 ranked instructor and teacher of the year recipient, along with George's groundbreaking research on foot pressure in the golf swing. Our commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology into our instructional program promises to revolutionize your golfing experience.

We will discuss the critical importance of understanding each golfer's physical limitations and how this knowledge can revolutionize their swing. Lastly, we are thrilled to announce our upcoming Golf Academy and Golf Lab - two exciting additions that promise to elevate your game to the next level. Get ready to be a part of an unforgettable season with us. Buckle up! This is just the beginning.

We've uncorked a delightful bouquet of conversation and education as our Communications Director, Becky Salaun, sits down with our very own Wine Director and Certified Sommelier, Melissa Hemmingway, and Joseph Elwell, Assistant General Manager. We trace Melissa's journey from her first sip of wine to becoming the heartbeat of our flourishing wine culture at Bonita Bay Club. We celebrate her mastery and passion as she guides us through the world of wine, from the beloved Napa Cabs to emerging grape-producing areas such as France’s Languedoc region.

Not to be missed, Melissa shares tales from her educational trips to the vineyards of Chile and Argentina. Hear how these experiences influence our members' wine preferences and the stories behind the wines on our rotating list. Melissa’s anecdotes from her travels in Italy, Sicily, and Napa Valley are enlightening and inspiring. She also unwraps her love for Pinot Noir and how her adventurous palate is constantly searching for new wines to introduce to the Club.

As we wrap up, we shine a light on the underrated Malbec wine and discuss the evolution of our wine list. You can learn about our BBC Wine Lovers Facebook page, a thriving platform for all wine enthusiasts. We also share a sneak peek of future wine events and dinners that our members can eagerly anticipate. All this, along with a spirited discussion on the most awaited wines of 2023 and exciting plans for future podcasts. So, raise a glass and join us at Bonita Bay Club on this captivating voyage into the world of wine. Cheers!

Ever wondered what the secret is to a truly outstanding meal? The answer is simpler than you might think - it starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a dedication to crafting meals from scratch. Hosted by our CEO and General Manager Fred Fung, join us in an enticing conversation with Richard Brumm, Director of Culinary Operations, and Joseph Elwell, Assistant General Manager, as we dive into the mouthwatering world of our Scratch Kitchen and uncover the journey that fresh food takes from farm to table at the Bonita Bay Club.

Our guests share their passion for culinary perfection and reveal the challenges and rewards of sourcing the finest seafood and meat from around the globe. We discuss everything from the dry aging process of beef to the delicate art of flavor profiling. But we don't stop there - we also talk about the club's unique use of American Wagyu beef and homemade pepperoni unlike any you've tried before. We even tackle the often-overlooked aspect of food presentation, reminding us all that the perfect dining experience starts with the eyes.

But a scratch kitchen isn't just about food. In our conversation, we delved into the day-to-day operations, including the often misunderstood aspects of allergen consciousness and the hurdles of staff retention in such a demanding environment. We even touch on the financial implications of running a scratch kitchen, revealing how it can lead to better financial health for the club. It's a peek behind the curtain into a world where every meal is a culinary masterpiece, and every ingredient tells a story. So, grab your headphones and prepare for a tantalizing journey into the heart of Bonita Bay Club's Scratch Kitchens.

Click Here to view the list from Chef Brumm

Have you ever wondered how a weather phenomenon like El Nino impacts a stunning golf course in sunny Florida? Join our Director of Communications, Becky Salaun, as she discusses this with our director of golf course operations, Hal Akins, and Dustin Free, our senior superintendent for the  Bay Island and Marsh courses. They share firsthand experiences dealing with the challenges of golf course maintenance, from managing water levels to maintaining the beauty of the greens. 

Moving onto the nitty-gritty of golf course management, we reveal the hurdles our team overcame at the club, from the decision to strip and re-grass 14 greens to managing a damaged pump station.  We also touch upon how weather conditions, particularly a hot and dry summer affect our greens.  Last but not least, we take you behind the scenes of our Golf Course Maintenance team with Dustin and Hal. They share their dedication and the hard work that goes into managing the courses, offering a glimpse into the passion that fuels our Club. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone keen on understanding golf course management and maintenance.

Have you ever been intrigued by the sport of croquet? Picture yourself engaging in a strategic game that is inclusive, accessible, and suitable for all ages. This episode invites you into the world of croquet with fascinating insights from devoted enthusiasts. Paula Scheb, director of sports, introduces Michael Kolowich, a club member, and Sherif Abdelwahab, a professional croquet player. Hear Michael's captivating journey from a curious observer to a passionate player and get a glimpse into Sherif's successful career and the sport's rising popularity among the youth.

As we journey further, we shed light on the humble teaching style of our croquet coach, Sherif, and the influential role of Rich Dell in introducing Sherif to our club. Experience the camaraderie and friendship on the croquet lawns and the welcoming community at the Bonita Bay Club. We assure you it's not just about hitting balls through hoops but a game that encourages strategic thinking, inclusion, and, most importantly, fun. So, why not venture into croquet? After all, you never know where hitting a ball with a mallet could lead you.

Join us as we uncover the intriguing metamorphosis of converting an old Sales Center Into Seasonal Employee Housing with our guests Fred Fung, Joseph Elwell, Richard Brumm, and Peggy Taylor. We promise a riveting conversation that will provide a glimpse into the history of the building, the existential need for this type of housing, and the labyrinth of the H2B visa process. Learn with us as Joseph talks about the fascinating tale of the building's journey since its purchase by Bonita Bay Club in 2019. Richard and Peggy add depth to the conversation by shedding light on the necessity of an affordable housing system for international seasonal staff, as well as the project's logistical obstacles and financial aspects.

Have you ever wondered about the intricacies of obtaining visas for employees? Or about the financial implications and timeline of a major renovation project? This is the episode for you. Peggy will guide us through the complex process of visa procurement and share some insightful experiences from the Bonita Bay Club. Richard will give us a peek into how they have successfully cultivated a team of returning employees who embody the ethos of the hospitality organization. We also get a chance to delve into the financial costs associated with the transformation and the anticipated timeline for the facility's launch as an employee housing center. So sit back, relax, and join us on this enlightening journey of discovery and learning. Let's together dig deeper into the multifaceted issue of housing for international seasonal staff, its effects on the local community, and the broader implications of this proposed change.

Can you picture a place where tennis, camaraderie, and transformative experiences beautifully intertwine? Welcome to the world of the FGCU Collegiate Open at Bonita Bay Club. In this dialogue-rich episode, Paula Scheb, CJ Weber, Sam Munze, and club member Debba Pearce pull back the curtain on the collegiate tennis scene and the unique interaction between Bonita Bay members and participating athletes. They shed light on the tournament's format, the sheer magnitude of support from members, and the awe-inspiring experience it provides to the college student athletes. Not to mention the scholarship-backed support for the FGCU women's tennis team and the spirited cheering for all competing teams. 

But what happens when a sport transcends geographical boundaries? College tennis has evolved into an international phenomenon. This episode brings you one step closer to understanding why. Through Sam's shared experiences, we delve into the tournament's entertaining atmosphere and how Bonita Bay members morph into surrogate parents for these athletes from all over the globe. We also delve into some heartwarming stories that highlight the extraordinary bonds formed between members and student athletes, as shared by Debba Pearce, CJ Weber, and Sam Munze. 

Have you ever wondered about the rigorous preparation process that student-athletes go through? CJ Weber is here to enlighten us. From nutrition to fostering team spirit, the narrative covers all. Taking us further, the conversation underlines the potential learning opportunities for the club members from these young, diligent athletes. The episode finally touches upon the expectations set by the coaches for their players and the pivotal role it plays in building a robust team bond. So, sit back and join us as we unravel the intricacies of collegiate tennis and its profound impact on the community at Bonita Bay.

Ever wonder how a premier club like Bonita Bay maintains constant communication with its members? As we navigate through the digital age, traditional methods like print and emails are merged with modern platforms like digital signs, our website, and chiefly, our state-of-the-art app. Becky Salaun, Jonathan Fossani, Kaylee Zuedima, and Jayne Rinne, offer insights into how we've enhanced our communication strategies at the club, using our app as a conduit. Unique features like an email feed to a QR code for amenities access allow us to keep our members updated and engaged, right at their fingertips. 

As we continue to innovate, we are thrilled about podcasting as a new medium to reach out to our members. Highlighting future plans, we discuss how podcasts will be used to share club news, historical tidbits, and upcoming events. We also invite our members to be part of this exciting journey, encouraging them to share their suggestions on topics they would like us to cover. Come, join us, and be a part of the evolution of communication at Bonita Bay Club.