Episodes

  • Jay Karen Addresses Golf Sustainability through the Lens of Golf Course Owners

    Jay Karen Addresses Golf Sustainability through the Lens of Golf Course Owners
    Oct 1 2024

    Jay Karen, CEO of the National Golf Course Owners Association, addresses economic and social sustainability from the viewpoint of an owner/operator.

    Jay believes that there’s a fine balance between sustainable business practices and sustainability practices. He dissects the nuances one has to consider.

    Golf course owners are expected to make golf more accessible. But are the same questions being asked of restaurateurs? Are they expected to lower the prices of their meals in the name of democratizing eating out? No!

    Demand is off the charts right now. Everything is getting more expensive. Many golf courses need major improvements. Green fees will have to go up to cover these things. Jay shares how golf course owners and operators balance the financials and sustainability efforts in this wonderful conversation.

    Topics covered:
    • Jay’s career journey and current role as CEO at NGCOA [2:04]
    • The different types of members at NGCOA [5:25]
    • How NGCOA approaches sustainability [8:16]
    • How different types of courses think about sustainability [17:15]
    • The democratization of access to the game [29:50]
    • How do we work together toward sustainability? [36:12]
    • What drives Jay? Why is he passionate about golf sustainability? [40:39]
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Lead Golf Together Summitt
    • National Alliance of Accessible Golf
    • Golf on Course
    • Roger Dow
    Connect with Jay Karen
    • Connect on LinkedIn
    • National Golf Course Owners Association
    Connect With Golf Sustainability
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

    • Apple Podcast
    • 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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    48 mins
  • St Andrew's Legacy of Sustainable Golf

    St Andrew's Legacy of Sustainable Golf
    Sep 24 2024
    St. Andrews Links is the oldest—and most well-known—golf course in the world. Recognized as the “Home of Golf,” it’s existed for over 600 years. Today we have the privilege of speaking with Gordon McKie, the Greenkeeping Operations Manager. Gordon has been at St. Andrews Links in various roles for over 27 years. Every year, over 240,000 rounds of golf are played across their seven courses. In 1974, the golf course was handed over to be managed by the St. Andrews Links Trust. The trust is solely responsible for what happens on the golf courses, including sustainability initiatives. St. Andrews Links is an innovative leader in environmental practices and sustainability. They evaluated their energy use and immediately began to implement changes: Installing solar panels, changing out light bulbs, and moving to the use of electric mowers and vehicles. They’ll soon be invested in the latest irrigation technology to reduce water usage on the courses. One of the challenges they face as a coastal golf course is coastal erosion. The West Sands Project was launched to protect the Links from eventually going underwater. They also introduced the West Sands Rangers Service in 2022 to protect the natural habitat, including native birds and butterflies. Only eight greenkeepers have cared for the Old Course in between Old Man Morris and Gordon, which he feels is an honor and a privilege. Gordon is passionate about improving education opportunities for young greenkeepers and hopes he influences them to recognize the importance of sustainability and being environmentally friendly. Topics covered: Gordon’s career progression at St. Andrews Links (00:01:15 – 00:03:30) Goron joined St. Andrews in 1995 as the Deputy Head Greenkeeper on the Eden course and worked there for 5 years before moving into the Head Greenkeeper role. Gordon spent 17 years as the Old Course manager before moving into the Greenkeeping Operations Manager role in 2023. How the management of St. Andrews Links has evolved (00:03:31 – 00:08:17) In 1974, the golf course was handed over to be managed by the St. Andrews Links Trust.Every penny that comes into the organization is reinvested into the courses (for example, proceeds from the trust are used for free golf lessons for Juniors). Being the steward of Old Tom Morris’s famous work [00:08:18 – 00:11:42) As only the 9th person to manage the turf, Gordon feels it’s a privilege to follow in the footsteps of Old Tom Morris, heralded as the first sustainable greenkeeper. The evolution of sustainability at St. Andrews Links (00:11:43 – 00:18:03) St. Andrews Links is an innovative leader in environmental practices and sustainability to protect their heritage and history.They launched the West Sands Project, replenishing gabions and dunes to protect against coastal erosion and preserve the Links. They focus on educating the next generation, making sure they know what they need to do to protect their future. Winning the Scottish Golf “Sustainable Project of the Year” Award (00:18:04 – 00:24:05) After evaluating their energy usage, they installed solar panels, changed out light bulbs to LEDs and sensor lights, and are using more electric and hybrid lawnmowers and vehicles. They plan to update the irrigation system to take advantage of the latest technology in sprinkler heads on the Old Course to further reduce water usage. They work with their partners to collect data to help them develop their products to better everyone in the industry. The legacy Gordon hopes to leave for future generations (00:24:06 – 00:31:10) Goron hopes his legacy will influence the next generation to understand the importance of sustainability and being environmentally friendly. Resources & People Mentioned St. Andrews LinksSt. Andrews Links Trust Awarded Sustainable Project of the Year Connect with Gordon McKie Connect on LinkedInFollow on Twitter Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple Podcast 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.
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    32 mins
  • Sustainable Golf at Big Cedar Lodge

    Sustainable Golf at Big Cedar Lodge
    Sep 17 2024

    “We all live downstream” is one of the mottos of Mr. Jonny Morris, the Founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops.

    Bubba Wright lets this motto serve as the north star for everything he does as the Director of Agronomy at Big Cedar Lodge.

    Whether it's by reducing its footprint or providing habitats for wildlife, Big Cedar Lodge strives to leave everything better than they found it. They’re achieving this by using organic fertilizers, installing new water systems to conserve water, and making sure their courses are Audubon-certified.

    Bubba shares his heart for conservation and passion for cultivating a strong culture in this conversation on the Golf Sustainability podcast.

    Topics covered:
    • Bubba’s career journey to his current role at Big Cedar Lodge [1:20–4:42]
    • The history of Big Cedar Lodge [4:43–6:31]
    • The Big Cedar Lodge philosophy around conservation and sustainability [6:32–13:43]
    • Their relationship with the National Audubon Society and other partners [13:44]
    • The technology that’s being developed to advance sustainability [19:03]
    • Getting to know Bubba Wright on a personal level [22:51]
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • The National Audubon Society
    • John Deere
    • Rainbird
    • Environmental Works
    • Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
    Connect with Bubba Wright
    • Connect on LinkedIn
    • Big Cedar Lodge Golf
    Connect With Golf Sustainability
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

    • Apple Podcast
    • 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.
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    31 mins
  • Inspirational Story of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach and Tips for How to Launch Your Own Golf Course Community Center

    Inspirational Story of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach and Tips for How to Launch Your Own Golf Course Community Center
    May 14 2024

    The Path seeks to change kids’ lives while introducing them to the game of golf. So is it a community center or a golf course? It’s both! It was launched on the premise that every child deserves the chance to succeed in life and you can hear the motivating story from Dave Andrews, the Director of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach.

    The Path has become the perfect blend of Dave’s passion and purpose, giving kids hope and inspiration. The goal was to take a kid who may not be on a good path and change their trajectory.

    Listen to learn more about this awe-inspiring community program—including how to inspire community involvement or launch your own program.

    Highlighted Topics Covered

    • Vision for The Park West Palm project (03:31 - 08:19)
    • Development of the The Path and its key programs (08:20 - 18:35)
    • Getting local schools to participate in the program (23:44 - 29:30)

    Resources

    • The Park West Palm
    • The Path

    Connect with Guest, Dave Andrews

    • LinkedIn

    Connect with Host, John Failla

    • LinkedIn
    • John@GolfSustainability.com

    Connect With Golf Sustainability

    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

    • Apple Podcast
    • Spotify
    • Amazon Music

    Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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    36 mins
  • Inspiring Strategies for Diversity and Inclusion in Golf, Highlighting 5 Key Areas of Commitment: Governance, Education, Workforce, Procurement, and Community

    Inspiring Strategies for Diversity and Inclusion in Golf, Highlighting 5 Key Areas of Commitment: Governance, Education, Workforce, Procurement, and Community
    Jan 13 2024

    Aiming to reflect the diverse demographics of America in both participants and workforce of the golf industry is Sandy Cross, the Chief People Officer at the PGA of America. Sandy and host John explore groundbreaking programs like PGA Works, aimed at diversifying the golf industry workforce, and initiatives such as Make Golf Your Career and Make Golf Your Business, fostering diversity in career opportunities and supply chains.

    Sandy also shares personal insights, including the transformative power of golf, her inspiration from her parents, and the challenges and triumphs of relocating the PGA of America during the pandemic.

    Highlighted Topics Covered

    • Framework for diversity and inclusion at PGA of America (04:01 - 07:00)
    • PGA’s internal diversity and inclusion programs (07:01 - 10:00)
    • Industry-wide initiatives and programs (10:01 - 15:00)

    Resources

    • PGA of America
    • Make Golf Your Thing
    • First Tee

    Connect with Guest, Sandy Cross

    • LinkedIn

    Connect with PGA of America

    • PGA of America

    Connect with Host, John Failla

    • LinkedIn
    • John@GolfSustainability.com

    Connect with Golf Sustainability

    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

    • Apple Podcast
    • Spotify
    • Amazon Music

    Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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    32 mins
  • How to Save a Golf Course While Preserving the Course Character and Incorporating Golf Sustainability Best Practices

    How to Save a Golf Course While Preserving the Course Character and Incorporating Golf Sustainability Best Practices
    Jan 12 2024

    Here to explain how it’s possible to create an environmentally conscious golfing experience while enhancing safety and making the golf course more sustainable is Tom Coyne, Author and Owner of Sullivan County Golf Club, a 180-acre, nine-hole course in the Catskills.

    Tom takes us through his significant course renovation including sodding the entire course using a mix of grass strains reflective of its century-long history. His commitment to responsible land management, combined with the use of organic inputs from partners like Toro and AquaTrols, sets the stage for low-impact golfing.

    The episode is not just about revitalizing a golf course; it's about creating a haven where golfers, families, and food enthusiasts converge to enjoy a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and exceptional experiences.

    Highlighted Topics Covered

    • Differences in golf sustainability views between the U.S. and Europe (03:00 - 08:00)
    • Challenges faced by Sullivan County Golf Club and the importance of sustainability in maintaining golf courses (08:00 - 15:00)
    • Impact of Toro and AquaTrols in making the golf course more sustainable (15:00 - 26:00)

    Resources

    • Sullivan County Golf Club
    • A Course Called Ireland
    • A Course Called Scotland
    • A Course Called America
    • Piccolo Paese

    Connect with Guests, Tom Coyne

    • Linkedin

    Connect with Host, John Failla

    • LinkedIn
    • John@GolfSustainability.com

    Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

    • Apple Podcast
    • Spotify
    • Amazon Music

    Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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    41 mins
  • Solutions for New and Existing Golf Courses to Increase Sustainability and Opportunities to get Certified by Audubon International

    Solutions for New and Existing Golf Courses to Increase Sustainability and Opportunities to get Certified by Audubon International
    Jan 12 2024

    Calling attention to the evolution of golf sustainability over the past 40 years is Frank LaVardera, the Director of Environmental Programs for Golf at Audubon International. Frank expresses a desire to be remembered as someone who cared deeply about the environment and fostered a user-friendly and collaborative approach in the golf industry.

    During the interview, Frank delves into the intricacies of Audubon International’s Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP), Signature Program, and Platinum Program, all designed to foster environmental sustainability in golf courses, emphasizing the importance of the Natural Resource Management Plan. He calls upon real-world examples of courses committed to sustainability and shares inspiring stories about environmental stewards like Jim Pavonetti.

    Highlighted Topics Covered

    • Overview of the ACSP, its six certification components, and a specific example of Saco Country Club's journey in implementing environmental practices (00:00 - 14:00)
    • Discussion on the Signature Program, its 11 certification components, and an example of Cabot Revelstoke (14:00 - 26:00)
    • Introduction of the Platinum Program (26:00 - 30:00), which combines certification for golf courses, clubhouses, and lodging facilities under one umbrella
    • Audubon International's conservation initiatives (30:00 - 32:00)

    Resources

    • Audubon International
    • Water IQ
    • The Cornell Turf School Program
    • Cabot RevelStroke

    Connect with Guest, Frank LaVardera

    • LinkedIn

    Connect with Audubon International

    • Audubon International

    Connect with Host, John Failla

    • LinkedIn
    • John@GolfSustainability.com

    Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

    • Apple Podcast
    • Spotify
    • Amazon Music

    Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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    47 mins
  • Programs Dedicated to Golf Sustainability and Promoting a Positive Environmental Impact by Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA)

    Programs Dedicated to Golf Sustainability and Promoting a Positive Environmental Impact by Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA)
    Dec 6 2023

    Opportunities for more golf sustainability are presented by Kevin Sunderman, the Chief Operating Officer of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Kevin chats with host John about the journey to a greener, more sustainable future for the golf industry.

    From his early days as a golf enthusiast in rural Ohio to his current influential role, Kevin's story is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we delve into his passion for making a meaningful impact and sparking change in the golf community.

    Topics Covered

    • Kevin’s transition from being a golf course superintendent to COO at GCSAA and an overview of GCSAA's mission (00:00 - 08:00)
    • GCSAA’s Golf Course Environmental Profile Study, its goals, research-driven initiatives, and the Best Management Practices (BMP) program (08:00)
    • Benefits of Best Management Practices (BMPs) (31:00)
    • Importance of partnerships in the golf industry to promote environmental initiatives (35:00)

    Resources

    • Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA)
    • GCSAA Golf Course Environmental Profile
    • GCSAA Best Management Practices

    Connect with Guest, Kevin Sunderman

    • LinkedIn

    Connect with GCSAA

    • Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

    Connect with Host, John Failla

    • LinkedIn
    • John@GolfSustainability.com

    Connect with Golf Sustainability on Social Media

    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X (Twitter)

    Subscribe to Golf Sustainability

    • Apple Podcast
    • Spotify
    • Amazon Music

    Thank you for listening to Golf Sustainability. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
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    44 mins