Episode 12: Lessons from a Golf Retail Leader: Laura Robinson Alcocer’s Path to Success

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, we sit down with industry icon Laura Robinson Alcocer, former Director of Retail at Pinehurst Resort and now Vice President of Green Grass Retail at Legends Global Merchandise. Laura shares insights from her 30-year career, including key strategies that drove Pinehurst’s retail success, the latest trends shaping golf merchandising, and expert advice for those looking to grow in the business.


Episode 11: From Passion to Platinum: Golf Retail Mastery with Emily Gifford

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, Justine Gray chats with Emily Gifford, Director of Retail at Boca West Country Club, about her path in golf retail and the strategies behind her award-winning shop. Emily discusses shifting member trends, year-round engagement, and creating a luxury shopping experience. Packed with practical takeaways for elevating your retail game!


Episode 10: Inside Congressional’s Award-Winning Retail Strategy with Tracey Stearns

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, host Justine Gray sits down with Tracey Stearns, Director of Retail at Congressional Country Club, to discuss how she has built an award-winning retail operation. Tracey shares insights on Congressional’s Centennial merchandise initiative, the impact of vendor-led education, and the success of their holiday gift guide featuring interactive video content. From private label development to elevating the member experience, tune in for expert strategies to take your retail operation to the next level!


Episode 9: Boosting Promotions & Engagement: Lessons from Bart Romano’s Golf Shops

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, host Justine Gray chats with Bart Romano, PGA, Director of Golf at Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and True Blue Golf Club. Bart shares how he transformed Caledonia’s pro shop into a high-performing retail destination through creative promotions, interactive merchandising, and a focus on guest experience. From e-commerce insights to innovative sales strategies like “Merch Madness,” tune in for actionable takeaways to elevate your golf shop’s success!


Episode 8: Pioneering Golf Retail: Caroline Basarab’s Legacy & Lessons

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, we’re joined by Caroline Basarab, a true icon in golf retail. With an award-winning career spanning decades, Caroline has shaped the industry through innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As the Director of Retail at Reynolds Lake Oconee, she shares insights on merchandising strategy, sales optimization, and staff development. Plus, she offers valuable advice for AGM merchandisers looking to elevate their operations. Don’t miss this conversation with one of golf retail’s most influential leaders!


Episode 7: Blending Tradition with Innovation: Katie Gates on Retail Success at Interlachen

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, host Justine Gray sits down with Katie Gates, Director of Retail at Interlachen Country Club—one of AGM’s 2025 Top 10 Best of Best Platinum Award recipients. With a background in menswear retail and a sharp business mindset, Katie has transformed the member shopping experience through innovative marketing, strategic merchandising, and a balance of tradition and modern retail techniques. From high-ticket holiday sales to digital engagement and visual storytelling, Katie shares her strategies for driving revenue and member loyalty. Tune in for insights on elevating private club retail and what’s next for Interlachen’s award-winning shop!


Episode 6: Expanding Your Golf Shop’s Reach: E-Commerce Strategies with Jeff Piltch

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, Justine Gray sits down with Jeff Piltch, Partner at Tee Commerce, to explore how golf shops can embrace e-commerce without added workload or inventory risk. Jeff shares insights on his journey with Tee Commerce, key industry trends, and the impact of technology on golf retail. As the first AGM vendor parnter to complete the Certified Retail Manager program, he also discusses the value of ongoing education for vendors. Don’t miss expert advice on positioning your shop for success in the digital space!


Episode 5: Inside the Best of the Best: Cathy Amelink’s Retail Playbook

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, host Justine Gray chats with Cathy Amelink, Director of Retail at Woodmont Country Club, a 2025 AGM Best of the Best Platinum Award winner. Cathy shares the strategies that set Woodmont apart, from innovative communication and merchandising tactics to staff development and event-driven retail. Tune in for insights on creating an award-winning golf shop experience!


Episode 4: Kristen Everard’s Winning Formula: Visual Excellence and Retail Innovation

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, Kristen Everard, Director of Retail at Atlanta Athletic Club and 2025 AGM Platinum Award recipient and Cashman Award for Visual Excellence winner, shares her winning formula for visual excellence and retail innovation. From standout merchandising strategies to unique member experiences like the TaylorMade tour van, Kristen offers insights on creating an award-winning shop and mentoring the next generation of golf retail professionals. Tune in for expert tips and inspiration!


Episode 3: Mastering the Private Club Retail Experience with Kelsey Jo Holsten

In this episode of The Fairway to Retail Success, host Justine Gray sits down with Kelsey Jo Holsten, AGM Regional Director for the Pacific/Hawaii Region and a 2025 Top 10 Best of the Best AGM Platinum Award recipient. Kelsey Jo shares insights into crafting an award-winning retail experience at Monterey Peninsula Country Club, curating exclusive product assortments, and creating VIP shopping experiences. Tune in for expert advice on elevating private club merchandising and staying ahead of evolving member expectations!


Episode 2: Style, Strategy, and Trends: Golf Retail in 2025 with Marty Hackel

Join Justine Gray as she interviews Mr. Style himself, Marty Hackel, live at the 2025 AGM Retail Conference in Orlando, FL. Marty gives us a State of the Union on the retail landscape in the Golf Industry. How has the relaxed lifestyle changed the fashion world?


Episode 1: Introduction to The Fairway to Retail Success

Welcome to “The Fairway to Retail Success: An AGM Podcast!” This podcast is your go-to resource for all things golf retail, bringing together the voices that shape our industry. Our mission at AGM is to elevate retail, enhance relationships, and educate always. At its heart, this podcast is about our AGM community—celebrating achievements, innovations, and bringing together professionals from across our industry. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s unlock your shop’s full potential—one episode at a time.