669: Matt Haney is a Fractional COO & Golfer & Traveler & Fisherman [podcast]

Matt Haney, a fractional COO with Sinclair Ventures, shares how his passions for golf, travel, and fishing have shaped both his personal and professional life. As a lifelong golfer, Matt describes the sport as more than competition, focusing on the value of relationships and time spent in nature. He highlights the transformative power of golf trips with friends, like his curated adventures to Bandon Dunes, and the deep connections formed through shared experiences. Matt talks about inheriting the "travel bug" from his wife's family, crediting his grandfather-in-law's adventurous spirit and prioritization of experiences over things. Fly fishing, especially in mountain streams, is another source of joy, reminding him of the importance of being present and connecting with nature. Throughout the conversation, Matt emphasizes that having outside interests is mission-critical for humanizing the workplace and fostering lasting connections with colleagues.

Episode Highlights

· Matt emphasizes that hobbies like golf, fishing, and travel are essential for personal well-being and professional effectiveness. They make you a better person and leader.
· Golf isn't just a game for Matt, but an opportunity to connect with others, enjoy nature, and continually challenge himself. The relationships and mental shifts he's gained through golf have been life-changing.
· Inspired by his wife's family, Matt believes experiencing new places and cultures expands your world and creates stories and bonds you carry throughout life.
· Using practices like EOS Meeting Segues, Matt brings people together at work by encouraging them to share personal 'wins' and outside interests, which boosts morale, builds trust, and deepens collaboration.
· Matt prioritizes his "Ands" and encourages the same for his teams, stressing that a culture of overwork isn't healthy—real success is supporting each other's full lives, goals, and well-being, both in and out of the office.