Beyond the Gates: Giving WNC the Password to Kenmure Country Club with Samantha Spain

🎙️ Guest: Samantha Spain, Marketing Director at Kenmure Country ClubIn this episode of Getting to Know Hendo, we sit down with Samantha Spain, Marketing Director at Kenmure Country Club, to pull back the gates—literally and figuratively—on one of Western North Carolina’s most talked-about communities.A Western North Carolina native, Spain began her career in the golf and country club industry in 2022 at Kenmure, where she quickly discovered a passion for creating access, connection, and community in a space she once believed was out of reach. Now, she’s on a mission to give locals the “password” into a lifestyle and venue that’s far more open and welcoming than many realize.During the conversation, Spain shares how Kenmure Country Club is more than a private club—it’s a full-service community destination offering:Event rentals for meetings, birthdays, fundraisers, and weddingsReal estate opportunitiesMultiple categories of membershipPublic access during major holidays such as Easter, Mother’s Day, and ThanksgivingFree Learn With beginner series in Golf and Pickleball, taught by their professional staffWe also dive into broader industry trends, including the challenge many mountain communities face with short-term residency and aging demographics—and how Kenmure is working to attract a more diverse, long-term, and younger professional membership.Spain highlights one of Kenmure’s most exciting recent additions: the Toptracer Range, introduced in summer 2024. Using the same technology as Topgolf, this interactive system offers real-time shot tracking, games, and performance data for golfers of all skill levels. The bays are available to rent for parties, events, and outings—and have quickly become a favorite among young professionals and families alike.On a more personal note, Spain shares a surprising fact about herself: she holds a specialized degree in Japonic Languages, studying Japanese language and culture at Western Carolina University—and can still speak a little Japanese (even if it doesn’t come up often in WNC).Her favorite professional advice comes straight from Kenmure’s General Manager:“If you have an idea, try it. If it fails, adjust.”That mindset has empowered her to embrace creativity, respect failure, and grow professionally without fear.🔗 Learn more about Kenmure Country Club:Website: www.kenmure.comInstagram: @kenmure_wncFacebook: Kenmure Country Club 🎶🌵 This episode of Getting to Know Hendo opens and closes with music from Cactus Kate and the Pricks, a bold, unapologetic band known for their raw sound and fearless creative energy.Their music sets the tone for the episode—gritty, authentic, and impossible to ignore—making them the perfect fit for the intro and outro. Cactus Kate and the Pricks represent the kind of independent artistry that thrives on honesty and edge. Whether you’re already a fan or hearing them for the first time, their tracks leave a lasting impression and elevate the entire listening experience.🎧 Check them out Website: https://cactuskateandthepricks.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cactuskateandthepricks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Cactus-Kate-and-the-Pricks/61558086909491/  You can reach out to your host at [email protected]