Michael Meldman is the Founder, Chairman and CEO at Discovery Land Company, known around the world for operating the best and most exclusive private club and golf communities (Yellowstone Club, Madison Club, Gozzer Ranch, Kukio, Bakers Bay, etc.). He is also one of the Co-Founders of Casamigos Tequila. Outside of his business ventures, he is a dad who values family over everything. He has built a life pursuing fun and exciting ventures, inspired by his boys and favorite people. He is fascinated by nature, thrilling outdoor adventures, and how locations can amplify connections within ourselves, those around us, and the world. His goal has always been to live a life where he doesn’t have to choose between work, family, and lifestyle.
1. Walk us through your morning routine.
- I like to wake up early and take in the world around me. I’m on the road often, so waking up is a unique experience at each location. My morning routine is usually flexible and tailored to how I’m doing:
1. I typically do a body scan to evaluate how I’m feeling.
2. Then, I open a Recover 180 bottle and hydrate, especially at high-altitude locations.
3. I also like to get my heart rate going with cardio and weight training before connecting with my boys. - I’m usually away on business, so after checking in with myself and my loved ones, I tackle work-related projects, take meetings, and work with Discovery teams worldwide.
2. Do you have an exercise routine?
- I have a solid exercise routine at my various homes. I schedule time in my home gym with a trainer, go on a walk or hike with my sons, and always find time for pickle ball & padel with friends.
3. Do you follow a specific diet? Share a little about how you approach nutrition and any supplements you take
- Well-being is a top principle on my list, so I’m consistently updating my routines and nutritional approach to match my body’s ongoing changes. I also prioritize working with top-notch professionals who help me navigate traditional and holistic wellness. I make room for fun and indulge in good food everywhere. I love different cultures, so I always seek a healthy balance of local street-style foods and world-class dining experiences.
4. How many hours do you sleep each night?
- Sleep could be the breaking factor between sustained high performance and burnout. Sleep is a pivotal part of making good life and business decisions, so I strive to get a healthy dose of it. My smart devices say I’m averaging 6 to 8 hours a night these days.
5. What are some hobbies you enjoy?
- I enjoy group activities a lot, so naturally, I am a huge fan of golf, pickleball and padel, exercise, watersports, biking, hiking, and anything exciting and thrilling. Most people don’t know this, but I am a history buff who enjoys modern and contemporary art.
6. Do you have any life mottos or principles you follow?
- I believe in collaboration and take a hands-on approach to everything I do. I firmly adhere to surrounding myself with intelligent and good-spirited people. I also seek high-quality solutions, whether creating a product or offering an experience. That said, I am passionate about the finer things in life, whether materials or experiences, so I avoid quick fixes and spare no expense when it comes to luxury and ease.
7. How do you approach setting goals?
- I enjoy brainstorming and using my creativity to set concrete S.M.A.R.T. goals.
8. Which Discovery Land property is your favorite in the winter? How about in the summer?
- I enjoy all DLC Properties, and each gets its round at being my favorite. Albeit, I have a soft spot for El Dorado winters and padel-filled summer days in CostaTerra.
9. What is your favorite way to learn new things?
- Similar to the experiences I like to create at Discovery, I learn experientially. Sometimes that means diving into a new investment or, in some cases, hiring an expert that can guide me into something new.
10. If you could leave one piece of advice for someone younger, what would you share?
- A powerful person can accomplish things alone, but a fulfilled one surrounds themselves with fun, intelligent, and capable people. So, always make time for the things that matter most. Likewise, patience is essential. I preach to my son Hunter and the young guys who want instant gratification that hard work takes time.
11. What is one thing you are looking forward to in 2023?
- I’m excited to cultivate new memories with my loved ones this year. Every year, I look forward to enjoying life with my Discovery family and finding new ways to bring joy to our communities as we expand globally.