Episodes

  • Inside Marriott Golf: Innovations Driving Sustainability Across the Globe

    Inside Marriott Golf: Innovations Driving Sustainability Across the Globe
    Jan 21 2025

    Sustainability in golf is no longer just a buzzword; it’s becoming a defining principle for the future of the sport. As challenges around resources and environmental impact grow, leaders in the industry are stepping forward with innovative approaches. Among them is David Robinson, Senior Director of Golf Grounds at Marriott International, who oversees a global portfolio of over 50 courses and has a unique perspective on how to balance tradition, performance, and responsibility.

    David brings decades of expertise in agronomy and a visionary mindset to his role. He’s driven by a belief that the courses we enjoy today should be left in even better condition for future generations. His work emphasizes efficiency, creativity, and technology to address modern challenges in ways that make sense for both the environment and the bottom line.

    This conversation highlights Marriott Golf’s proactive initiatives, from smarter water use to reducing inputs like chemicals and energy. David explores how innovative irrigation systems, turfgrass advancements, and automation are creating more sustainable, cost-effective, and reliable outcomes. His perspective shows how practical solutions can yield lasting benefits.

    David’s leadership is a reminder that sustainability isn’t about compromise; it’s about opportunity. By focusing on smarter, data-driven practices and working with top partners in the industry, he’s helping shape a future for golf that’s both responsible and exciting, one decision at a time.

    Topics covered:
    • David Robinson’s Career and Role at Marriott Golf [00:00]
    • Defining Sustainability at Marriott Golf [4:39]
    • Tackling Carbon Footprints and Water Management [6:22]
    • Challenges and Opportunities in a Global Portfolio [12:33]
    • Partnerships and Cutting-Edge Technology [15:42]
    • The Vision for the Future of Golf Course Irrigation [17:59]
    • Personal Inspiration and Legacy [33:00]
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • GEO Foundation – Leading tool for carbon footprint analysis in golf
    • Audubon International – Environmental certification standard adopted by Marriott Golf
    • USGA Green Section – Research leader in sustainable turfgrass and water management
    Connect with Our Guests

    LinkedIn: David Robinson

    Connect With Golf Sustainability
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    Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

    Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

    Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
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    45 mins
  • Inside Golf’s Greatest Sustainability Transformation—DP World Tour’s Green Drive

    Inside Golf’s Greatest Sustainability Transformation—DP World Tour’s Green Drive
    Jan 14 2025

    Golf is a game deeply connected to nature, and its future depends on how well we care for the environment. Maria Grandinetti Milton, Director of Sustainability for the DP World Tour, is at the forefront of this mission, setting a remarkable example for the sports world. Her work spans global events, innovative environmental practices, and efforts to make golf more inclusive and community-focused.

    Maria leads the Green Drive initiative, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in sustainability. From using hydrogen-powered broadcasts to developing programs that help fans and players track and offset their carbon footprints, her efforts show what leadership looks like in a complex global sport. Recognized with the prestigious Transformation Award, her work demonstrates the impact of commitment and creativity.

    With 44 tournaments across 24 countries, the DP World Tour presents unique challenges—and opportunities. Under Maria’s guidance, sustainability isn’t just about reducing emissions but also about creating lasting positive impacts for communities and the natural world. Her story is a powerful example of how sports can inspire meaningful change.

    Topics covered:

    • Setting the Stage for Sustainability [00:00]

    • Maria’s Career Journey and Role [02:00]

    • Golf for Good: A Holistic Sustainability Approach [07:00]

    • Green Drive and the Transformation Award [11:50]

    • Tackling Fan and Player Emissions [26:00]

    • Suppliers and Partnerships in Sustainability [33:00]

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • GEO Foundation – Sustainability leader in golf
    • Gold Standard – Carbon offset partner
    • AQ Greentech – Emissions tracking tools
    Connect with Our Guests
    • Maria Milton on LinkedIn
    Connect With Golf Sustainability
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    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)
    • Email

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

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    Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

    Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

    Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
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    48 mins
  • National Links Trust New Model for Municipal Golf

    National Links Trust New Model for Municipal Golf
    Nov 12 2024
    How can 150 acres of urban public green space benefit a community beyond recreational access? How can a golf course address stormwater runoff and pollution issues, improve water quality, revitalize habitats, and improve biodiversity? How can it create partnerships and programs with other nonprofits to improve access and inclusion for underrepresented populations (while keeping the game affordable for all)? Andrew Szunyog has dedicated his career to improving the relationship between the game of golf and its surrounding communities. Municipal golf courses are becoming community centers to facilitate a healthy environment and places for people to go. As the Director of Sustainability at National Links Trust, he’s laid out the most comprehensive framework for sustainability at a golf course that I’ve ever heard. His report outlines four buckets addressing emissions and runoffs, resource efficiency, waste management, and community and environmental stewardship. Topics covered: Andrew’s career journey to the Director of Sustainability at National Links Trust [1:39] After graduating from the University of Florida in 2003 with a degree in Business and Sports Management, Andrew got a minimum-wage job at a local course working in outside operations. He quickly learned he wanted to spend his life in golf.Six months later, his dad passed away unexpectedly. His inheritance allowed him to complete a 16-month program at Professional Golfers Career College. He fell in love with running tournaments. He got an internship with the Arnold Palmer Invitational in 2006 and 2007 where he learned volunteer management, spectator management, ticket sales, and more. He completed a research project on “What does Sustainability in Golf Mean?” and what organizations are doing to be responsible for their impact on the environment.He realized there was an intersection between social and environmental justice and wanted to understand how golf fits in that. He wants the tournaments he runs to have some higher purpose that provides value. Together with Alex Baxter and Andre Paul, they created a golf sustainability mastermind group which transformed into a newsletter and blog. They created a platform for the golf industry to tell its sustainability journey. When he learned that The National Links Trust formed, he made himself available for volunteer opportunities. In 2021, he was working with Blue Strike Environmental when National Links Trust reached out to him to lead a sustainability panel for their first annual symposium on municipal golf. Afterward, NLT asked him to become their in-house sustainability professional. The origin, purpose, and mission of the National Links Trust [00:26:19] The National Links Trust is a 501C3 non-profit organization that has a 50-year lease with the National Park Service to manage the three public golf courses in D.C. The goal over the 50-year lease is to renovate all three courses to give them a fresh look, built with sustainability in mind, presenting the historical significance of what the courses mean to the city. They will break ground on Rock Creek Park on November 1st, 2024. They’ve set a two-year timeline for the renovations of each course. Developing a sustainability report for the National Links Trust [00:30:17] Andrew is writing a sustainability report and created frameworks to address the impact of their operations, how they will address root causes, and rebuild with sustainability in mind.Bucket one accounts for emissions and runoffs. It’s looking at water quality monitoring to reduce waste pollution, looking at reducing emissions, and addressing nutrient and pesticide management.Bucket two looks at resource efficiency, covering energy audits, electrifying the infrastructure, lighting audits, upgraded HVAC systems, window tinting, automatic on/off switches, and water efficiency. This also includes retrofitting and upgrading their historical structures. Bucket three is waste management procurement. Their goal is to eliminate single-use practices, ban plastic tees, and work with vendors to make sure products are sent in compostable plastic packaging. They’ll create partnerships to become zero waste. The fourth bucket is geared toward community and environmental stewardship, improving access to the game, and developing partnerships that promote sustainability, climate resilience, and social and environmental justice. They’ll create volunteer programs, community programming, internships, and much more. What’s motivating the reinvention of municipal golf courses [00:44:40] Their mission is to show the value that municipal courses have as community assets. These places are entry points for well over half of people who play golf. If a golf course is viewed as a park, money won’t be set aside for upkeep. But if it’s viewed as an asset, it becomes a sustainable business that can make money. What drives Andrew to make a difference...
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    59 mins
  • Driving Change in Golf: Don Rea on Inclusion, Innovation, and Sustainability

    Driving Change in Golf: Don Rea on Inclusion, Innovation, and Sustainability
    Nov 5 2024
    Golf has always been seen as an exclusive sport, shaped by factors like climate, cost, and tradition. But what if it could be more accessible while still honoring its roots? That’s the vision of Don Rea, Vice President and soon-to-be President of the PGA of America. He is on a mission to broaden access and deepen the sport’s impact without losing what makes golf unique. From an unconventional start as a minor league umpire to leading one of the most influential organizations in golf, Don’s story is one of passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to change. Don brings an energetic approach to growing the game, emphasizing public golf, youth development, and expanding access to underserved communities. He’s helped shape programs like PGA REACH, which not only introduce new people to the sport but also address broader social issues, from veteran reintegration to workforce diversity. His ideas around leveraging technology, public-private partnerships, and a renewed focus on mentorship offer a fresh take on what it means to make golf truly sustainable—financially, socially, and environmentally. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, an industry professional, or simply curious about the future of the sport, Don’s insights offer a powerful look at how golf can be more than just a game. It's about community, opportunity, and driving real change. This conversation is packed with stories, strategies, and plenty of inspiration for how the game we love can serve as an "engine for good." Topics covered: [00:00] Don Rea’s Career Journey & Mission in Golf Don begins by sharing his unique career path, from professional umpiring to becoming a PGA pro and golf course owner.He discusses his passion for public golf and its role in building community, improving health, and supporting families.Don recounts his rise within the PGA of America, emphasizing the importance of bringing new perspectives into leadership.He explains how his experience on the public side of golf has shaped his vision to expand access and make golf more inclusive. [05:00] Advancing Inclusion Through PGA REACH Don outlines PGA REACH’s key initiatives, including programs for veterans (PGA HOPE), juniors (PGA Junior League), and workforce diversity (PGA Works).He shares how PGA REACH aims to diversify not only the players but also the workforce, highlighting efforts to create pathways into careers beyond playing golf.Don emphasizes the importance of intentionality in diversifying leadership within the PGA and the broader industry.He explains the role of initiatives like "Make Golf Your Thing," a collaboration of industry partners committed to increasing access and participation. [12:00] Overcoming Grassroots Challenges Don identifies challenges in translating national programs into local impact, given the differences across 41 PGA sections.He describes efforts to strengthen the connection between national committees and local chapters to ensure consistent execution of initiatives.John suggests creating competition among PGA sections to drive innovation and local engagement, an idea Don supports as a means of sparking more grassroots participation.The conversation highlights the critical role of local relationships in growing golf at the community level, from municipal courses to youth programs. [18:00] Municipal Golf & Public-Private Partnerships Don dives into the potential of municipal golf courses as engines for broader access, citing successful examples like the park at West Palm.He details how public-private partnerships can revitalize municipal golf, making it more financially sustainable while keeping costs low for players.Endowments and matching grants are proposed as tools to support operational sustainability and enable junior programs.John and Don brainstorm the idea of a national initiative to scale these efforts, aiming to create more public access points across the country. [26:00] Technology & Financial Sustainability Don shares how Augusta Ranch Golf Club’s integration of Toptracer technology quadrupled range revenue and increased engagement.He emphasizes the role of gamification in making golf accessible and fun, serving as a bridge for new players, especially younger generations.The financial impact of Toptracer not only boosted range use but also food and beverage sales, underscoring its potential as a driver of financial sustainability.The discussion explores the broader implications of virtual and simulated golf experiences, including their ability to draw new players and sustain interest. [37:00] Mentorship, Legacy, & Leading the PGA of America Don talks about his dedication to mentoring the next generation of PGA professionals, emphasizing that relationship-building is key to sustainable growth.He plans to visit professional golf management (PGM) universities nationwide to inspire students and emphasize the broader impact of the game.He expresses a desire to shift the ...
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    51 mins
  • How the GEO Foundation is Driving Sustainable Golf through Initiatives, Resources, and Certification

    How the GEO Foundation is Driving Sustainable Golf through Initiatives, Resources, and Certification
    Oct 29 2024

    Jonathan Smith is the founder and Executive Director of the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf and one of the foremost authorities on golf sustainability in the world. His foundation focuses on creating a symbiotic relationship with strategic partners to help golf clubs, architects, and individual tournaments reach their sustainability goals.

    The majority of golf facilities need to know how sustainability benefits the business and the steps they can take to unlock those benefits efficiently and effectively. However, there are numerous areas in which someone can start with sustainability efforts, which can be challenging and overwhelming. The GEO Foundation seeks to hone that pathway for its members.

    The more you lean into environmental issues, and the more proactive you are, the more you bring it into contact with your community, the more money you’ll save. You’ll make wiser long-term investments. You’ll generate more access to funding and sponsorships from local businesses.

    Topics covered:

    • Jonathan’s career journey and the origin of the GEO Foundation [1:28]
    • The mission of the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf [4:04]
    • How to get organizations to take the first step toward sustainability [14:55]
    • The importance of association partnerships and relationships [21:48]
    • How the different regions of the world incorporate sustainability practices [25:13]
    • How regulations drive sustainability in golf regionally [29:53]
    • Democratizing access to the game of golf [32:20]
    • The future of sustainable golf [38:29]
    • What drives Jonathan? Who inspires him? [42:44]
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • The Sustainable Golf Pledge
    • FREE OnCourse® program
    • Gordon Shepherd
    Connect with Jonathan Smith
    • Connect on LinkedIn
    • The GEO Foundation
    Connect With Golf Sustainability
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    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

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    Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

    Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.
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    53 mins
  • The Environmental Benefits of Golf Courses

    The Environmental Benefits of Golf Courses
    Oct 22 2024

    What if golf courses were more than just places to tee off? In this episode of The Golf Sustainability Podcast, I sit down with Brian Horgan, chairperson of Michigan State University’s Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences, to dive into a fascinating new perspective on golf. With over 20 years in research and academia, Brian has been at the forefront of redefining golf courses as essential green spaces with real environmental and social impact.

    We explore how golf courses can go beyond leisure to contribute to urban cooling, carbon sequestration, water management, and biodiversity. Brian shares his insights on the future of municipal courses—how they can evolve into thriving community hubs and play a critical role in sustainable urban planning.

    Whether you're passionate about golf sustainability, urban development, or reimagining public spaces, Brian’s research offers a fresh look at how these often-overlooked landscapes can benefit both people and the planet. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on building a more sustainable future through golf.

    Topics covered:
    • [1:10] Brian Horgan's Journey to Research and Academia
    • [4:00] The "Science of the Green" Concept
    • [8:10] Multifunctional Use of Golf Courses and Community Integration
    • [16:20] Broader Impacts and Future of Golf Course Research
    • [22:00] Expanding the Mindset for Municipal Golf Courses
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • USGA (United States Golf Association)
    • InVEST Model
    • St. Andrews
    • The Park at West Palm
    Connect with Brian Horgan, Ph.D.
    • Brian Horgan, Michigan State University Profile
    • Michigan State University Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences
    Connect With Golf Sustainability
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
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    • Email

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

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    Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

    Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

    Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
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    33 mins
  • How the PGA Tour is Leading the Charge in Sustainable Golf

    How the PGA Tour is Leading the Charge in Sustainable Golf
    Oct 15 2024

    Why wouldn’t the PGA Tour help lead the charge in golf sustainability? I’m joined by Brazos Barber, the Director of Sustainability for the PGA Tour for his insights in sustainable golf and the PGA Tour. As golf faces growing environmental challenges, Brazos shares his personal journey with me: leading sustainability efforts within one of the world’s largest sporting organizations.

    His work has quietly but powerfully transformed sustainability initiatives at both PGA Tour events and TPC (Tournament Players Club) golf courses across the country.

    We talk a lot about exactly how the PGA Tour is taking meaningful strides toward environmental responsibility, with the WM Phoenix Open serving as the gold standard for zero-waste events.

    Brazos shares the bigger goal of integrating sustainability into the DNA of all PGA Tour operations while highlighting the tour’s approach to climate action, nature promotion, and sustainable partnerships.

    From water conservation to reducing tournament emissions, this episode offers a detailed look at the work happening behind the scenes that could help reshape the future of golf.

    Topics covered:
    • Opening and Introduction to Sustainability at the PGA Tour [00:00]
    • Brazos Barber’s Career Journey from sports management to sustainability [01:28]
    • The PGA Tour’s Sustainability Philosophy [04:23]
    • Sustainability at TPC Courses and Establishing Baselines [07:31]
    • Sustainable Golf Practices at PGA Tour Events [14:09]
    • The Importance of Partnerships in Sustainability [18:48]
    • Challenges of Tournament Attendee Travel and Emissions [23:09]
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • WM Phoenix Open
    • GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf
    • Audubon International
    • Ryan Holiday: Author of The Obstacle is the Way and The Daily Stoic
    Connect with Brazos Barber
    • PGA TOUR Sustainability
    • Connect with Brazos Barber
    Connect With Golf Sustainability
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    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

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    Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

    Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

    Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
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    33 mins
  • Sustainability Technology at Hillcrest Country Club with Matt Muhlenbruch

    Sustainability Technology at Hillcrest Country Club with Matt Muhlenbruch
    Oct 8 2024

    As the Director of Agronomy at Hillcrest Country Club, Matt Muhlenbruch fully embraces leveraging technology to make the game of golf more sustainable. His approach is well-researched so he’s only implementing tools and technologies that will drive sustainable golf forward.

    Ultimately, the technology he adopts has to bring meaningful and measurable advantages to the operation, or time and money are spent learning new software every few weeks. Matt thoughtfully incorporates each piece, from a new irrigation system to ground sensors, GPS-based turf sprayers to electric mowers.

    Each precise application brings them one step closer to their sustainability goals. Matt shares more about his process at Hillcrest in this thought-provoking episode of Golf Sustainability.

    Topics covered:
    • Matt’s career journey and current role at Hillcrest Country Club [1:22]
    • What does golf sustainability Look like at Hillcrest Country Club? [7:18]
    • The stringent regulations in California for golf course management [10:07]
      • The impact of technology on sustainability [15:46]
    • Matt’s experience collaborating with partners like Rainbird and Toro [28:00]
    • The technologies that Matt is excited to test next [33:54]
    • What drives Matt? [37:22]
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Toro
    • Rainbird
    • John Deere Turf Sprayers
    Connect with Matt Muhlenbruch
    • Connect on LinkedIn
    • Follow on Twitter
    Connect With Golf Sustainability
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)
    • Email

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

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    • Spotify

    Note: Timestamps provided are approximate.

    Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

    Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
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    41 mins