Episode 187: From Topgolf to Top Leader: Mastering Judgment in Business and Life w/ Aaron Vaccaro

Episode 187 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!  

This week we are joined by the Vice President of WestRiver Group, President of Singularity University, and the CEO of Liquor Lab, Aaron Vaccaro!

Episode in a Glance:

Check it out! In this episode, Aaron Vaccaro shares insights on navigating life's uncertainties, the rise of Topgolf, and the unique approach to building a brand that redefines golf. He discusses the introduction of Liquor Lab, strategies for scaling businesses, and the importance of leadership that balances truth and grace. Aaron and I then touch on personal growth through parenting and the influence of family on success. Throughout this episode, we explore the profound lessons learned from family, the importance of self-investment, and the power of relationships in personal growth. Ultimately, the episode serves as a motivational guide for listeners seeking to navigate their own journeys of growth and success.

Key Points:

- Life's journey is filled with uncertainties and volatility.

- Creating a brand requires consistency across all locations.

- Leadership involves balancing accountability with compassion.

- Team dynamics are crucial for success in any business.

- Family support plays a significant role in achieving success.

- Self-imposed limitations can hinder personal growth.

- Investing in oneself is the best way to create opportunities.

- Surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial for growth.

- Teaching discipline to the next generation is vital.

- Experience is a powerful teacher in life and business.

- Hard work and opportunity often go hand in hand.

About our guest: 

Aaron Vaccaro is a seasoned investor, entrepreneur, and executive, currently serving as CEO of Liquor Lab and Vice President at WestRiver Group (WRG). With a background in mathematical economics and finance, Aaron began his career at WRG in 2015, playing a key role in scaling Topgolf Entertainment Group from $90 million to $1.1 billion in revenue. His strategic leadership helped drive the company’s eventual $2 billion acquisition by Callaway Golf. 

Since then, he has held influential roles across WRG’s portfolio, including President of Singularity University and advisor to companies like Talespin Reality Labs and TOCA Football. In 2025, after seven years of involvement with Liquor Lab, Aaron took on the CEO role, bringing his vision of making premium experiences fun, accessible, and inclusive to life. Under his leadership, Liquor Lab is transforming mixology into an immersive, community-driven experience, echoing the democratizing spirit that fueled Topgolf’s success. 

Known for his ability to build teams and scale companies, Aaron continues to lead with a focus on creativity, collaboration, and delivering unforgettable customer experiences.

Follow and contact:

Instagram: @liquorlab | @aaronvaccaro

https://liquorlab.com/

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