The meeting kicked off with an insightful conversation featuring Marissa Kul Crow, a prominent figure in the golf industry. Marissa shared her journey from her roots in Westfield, Massachusetts, to becoming a trailblazer in a predominantly male sport. She recounted her early experiences of playing golf from the men’s tees during high school tryouts and her subsequent rise to captain the women’s golf team at Bryant University. Her determination led her to diverse roles within the golf industry, from Greenskeeper to general manager.

Marissa’s story took a turn when she moved to Connecticut to build a women’s golf program from scratch at a facility known for its apple pies. Her efforts resulted in a thriving program with over 1,500 women participating each season. Despite her success, Marissa candidly discussed reaching a point of burnout by May 2023, driven by the demands of her role and the need to balance her professional ambitions with her responsibilities as a mother to an autistic son. Seeking flexibility, she transitioned to work as an independent contractor.

The dialogue also explored the unforeseen boom in the golf industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, as outdoor activities became a refuge for many. The increased demand for golf led to challenges such as equipment shortages and the implementation of new safety protocols. One individual reflected on adapting to these changes by limiting lesson sizes and ensuring safety through mask-wearing and equipment sanitization.

Leadership qualities during uncertain times emerged as a key theme, with discussions highlighting the importance of honesty, open communication, and empathy. The necessity for leaders to remain approachable and maintain a strong support network was emphasized, particularly during periods of conflict and differing personalities within teams. Several speakers recounted personal experiences of burnout.

The conversation delved into the emotional weight of career transitions, detailing the difficulty of announcing a decision to move on from a role. One speaker shared their overwhelming experience of conveying this decision to colleagues, which underscored the significance of empathy and support during such transitions. Despite leaving their position, the speaker maintained connections with their former workplace, participating in events like “women’s golf day” and “Putt for Pink,” reflecting the enduring community ties.

Authenticity in leadership was another focal point, with participants stressing the need for genuine and real interactions. A speaker recounted how their efforts in teaching golf positively impacted women’s lives. They shared an anecdote from their time as a massage therapist, where their departure elicited an emotional response from a client, highlighting the profound effect of their presence.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on commitment and community-building. One speaker expressed a desire to replicate successful initiatives from Connecticut in Easthampton. They emphasized the importance of self-belief and the acknowledgment of past achievements as vital components of leadership. This sentiment was encapsulated in a mentor’s advice to remember past contributions.