Episode Details

This week's episode of Wealthyist (the podcast exploring the lifestyles, choices, and strategies of the wealthy, produced by Annex Private Client/Annex Wealth Management) is hosted by Anthony Mlachnik, a senior wealth advisor. The guest is Brian Weis, a serial entrepreneur deeply passionate about golf. He runs multiple golf-related businesses, including GolfTrips.com (focused on golf travel), Golf Guide (product reviews), and Golf Community Living (highlighting golf-centric real estate and retirement living). He's also a board member of the Golf Course Owners of Wisconsin, and a dedicated golfer with a handicap that fluctuates between 3 and 12 (depending on whether he's betting or bragging).

The conversation centers on the evolution of golf as a lifestyle and experience, particularly among affluent individuals, and how it ties into wealth, business, health, and social connections.

Key Topics and Trends Discussed:

• Golf's Post-COVID Boom: Pre-COVID, golf was declining, but the pandemic highlighted it as a safe outdoor activity. Younger generations (30s–40s) with rising discretionary income have driven massive growth in golf travel and experiences, shifting from basic tee times to premium, immersive outings.
• Shift to High-End Experiences: Traditional "buddy trips" (cheap hotels, beer, cram in rounds) have evolved into luxury setups—resorts with on-site real estate, spacious homes/villas with grills, fire pits, and stocked bars. Golf now pairs with wellness (spas, unplugged time), culture (e.g., castle tours in Europe), food/wine, bourbon/cigar tastings, or events like the Super Bowl or Masters.
• Types of Golf Travelers:
  • Bucket-listers chasing iconic courses (e.g., Pebble Beach, St. Andrews).
  • Experiential groups seeking added activities.
  • Couples blending golf with non-golf elements (spas, local sights); some spouses golf, others relax poolside/spa while the golfer sneaks in early rounds.
• Business and Networking Angle: Golf reveals character (handling adversity, positivity). It's a powerful tool for building relationships—better than short meetings. Many executives/entrepreneurs use it for prospecting or client entertainment. Professional athletes (e.g., Michael Jordan, Steph Curry, Aaron Rodgers) often excel at golf and cross-pollinate mindsets with business leaders.
• Trends in Memberships and Access:
  • "Country club membership hoarders" collecting multiple private/national memberships for prestige, business, or vacation access.
  • Corporate/national memberships at elite spots (e.g., Sand Valley's Lido).
  • Shift from heavy discounting (pre-COVID) to willingness to pay for premium experiences.
• Luxury Travel Logistics: Helicopters/private jets for remote courses (especially in Scotland/Ireland to save time on narrow roads and fit more rounds). Transportation services (limos/buses) for groups to enjoy drinks safely.
• Wisconsin as a Golf Destination: Underrated no more—hosts top courses like Sand Valley (multiple), Kohler (Whistling Straits), Erin Hills (former U.S. Open site). It ranks high nationally (e.g., most in top 100 lists recently). Benefits local economy via packages, transport, beer/spirits (e.g., Spotted Cow), cheese curds/brats.
• Family and Inclusivity: Resorts add short/par-3 courses (e.g., Sand Valley's Sandbox) for beginners, kids, spouses. More family-friendly amenities beyond golf.
• Lodging Evolution: From cramped hotel rooms to spacious, configurable setups (private bedrooms/baths, common areas) to keep guests on-property and enhance revenue.
• Recommended Trips:
  • International: Scotland (St. Andrews for history; Highlands/Edinburgh a