Not Just a Club — A Place to Belong with Gretchen Bonasera of 80 East Powell

In a world of endless scrolling, what if the real luxury is connection?In this episode of Inside Northwest Columbus, I sit down with Gretchen Bonasera, founder of Goodnight Investments and the visionary behind two of the city’s most exclusive bourbon and whiskey clubs: 80 East Powell and 114 West Central.These aren’t just places to sip rare spirits—they’re thoughtfully designed spaces where members unplug from the noise, connect over shared interests, and enjoy a sense of belonging that’s hard to find these days.We dive into:The inspiration behind launching private bourbon clubs in Worthington and WestervilleWhy curated, members-only spaces are gaining momentum across the countryHow intentional design, lighting, and acoustics influence how we gatherThe rise of modern “third places” — spaces that aren’t home or work, but still feel personalWhy Gretchen believes meaningful conversation is the new currencyGretchen also shares what it takes to cultivate an authentic membership culture—one that values quality over quantity, intentionality over access, and real connection over curated feeds.If you’re curious about the growing appeal of private clubs—or just want a peek inside some of Columbus’s most beautifully designed, community-forward spaces—this episode offers both insight and inspiration.To learn more, visit 80EastPowell.comAnd be sure to follow Inside Northwest Columbus all October as we explore the people and places shaping the food, drink, and hospitality culture of our city—one bite, one pour, one conversation at a time.