Leadership on the Links

• 050 I Building the Future of Turfgrass in New York with Tom Kaplun

  In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Tom Kaplun, Superintendent at North Hempstead Country Club and President of the New York State Turfgrass Association (NYSTA). Tom shares insights into the NYSTA apprenticeship program, a game-changing initiative designed to develop the next generation of turfgrass professionals. We discuss how this program is shaping the future of the golf industry, improving workforce retention, and providing a structured pathway for career growth. Whether you’re a superintendent, a golf course operator, or someone looking to break into the industry, this conversation is packed with valuable insights! Key Takeaways ⛳ The NYSTA apprenticeship program offers structured education and hands-on training for turfgrass professionals. 🌱 Workforce development benefits, including skill-building, employee retention, and career advancement. 🎓 Open to a diverse range of individuals, from recent graduates to career changers and experienced employees. 🤝 Industry partners play a crucial role by supporting through equipment donations, scholarships, and program promotion. Links & Resources 🔗 NYSTA Apprenticeship Program – https://nystaapprenticeship.com/

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• 049 I Strengthening Club Leadership & HR Strategy

  In this episode, we introduce Rachel Ridgeway as the newest team member at Bloom Golf Partners. We discuss her extensive HR background in private clubs, Bloom Golf Partners' expansion strategy, and how Rachel will integrate into the firm. Rachel Ridgeway’s 13-years of experience in hospitality and manufacturing led her to the private club industry, where she served as an HR executive at Merion Golf Club and Rehoboth Beach Country Club. She specializes in executive recruitment, employee engagement, and club governance, with a passion for the unique dynamics of private clubs.  A SHRM-CP certified professional and Lumina Learning practitioner, Rachel has successfully recruited for leadership roles across private clubs, including Assistant General Managers, Superintendents, Executive Chefs, and Directors of Finance. This episode is packed with practical insights for General Managers, Club Leaders, and Superintendents looking to enhance hiring, retention, and leadership development strategies in their organizations.  Key takeaways from this episode: HR Expertise in Private Clubs – Rachel has placed key club leadership roles, bringing best practices to streamline the search process and enhance recruitment outcomes. Strategic Integration of HR Best Practices – Rachel’s discusses the value of strategic initiatives including structured onboarding, exit interviews, and employee engagement strategies. Building Long-Term Leadership Pipelines – Develop stronger hiring frameworks to help clubs attract, retain, and develop top talent. Establishing core values, conducting annual employee satisfaction surveys, and implementing recognition programs create engaged teams and reduce turnover. Leadership & Development Initiatives: Rachel’s experience includes launching supervisor peer groups, Lumina Spark workshops, and leadership retreats to strengthen club leadership teams. Links in this episode: Rachel Ridgeway - LinkedIn Bloom Golf Partners - www.bloomgolfpartners.com

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• 048 I Shaping the Future: Insights on Assistant Superintendent Career Growth with Pat Jones

  In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we dive into the findings of a recent survey on assistant superintendent employment trends and career development with industry expert Pat Jones. The conversation sheds light on what today’s assistants need to succeed and how the industry can better support their growth. What you'll learn in this episode: ✅ Mentorship & Development Matter: Assistants are seeking more guidance from superintendents and exposure to high-level responsibilities like budgeting and planning. ✅ Workplace Culture is a Priority: Future superintendents aim to build positive, engaged team environments. ✅ Education Requirements are Changing: While valuable, a 4-year degree is no longer seen as essential—2-year programs and on-the-job experience are gaining traction. ✅ Career Transparency is Needed: Assistants want clear pathways for advancement and open discussions about compensation. Soundbytes: "Many assistants expressed a common frustration: they don’t feel seen or taken seriously by their superintendents. They’re looking for mentorship, career guidance, and a clear path forward—but often feel left to figure it out on their own." (12:04) “With nearly 40% of courses now under management companies, there’s a growing demand for experienced professionals who can step into a role and stay. It’s no different than a highly skilled mechanic choosing to specialize rather than running the whole shop. You can carve out a successful career in this space without necessarily wearing the superintendent hat." (20:07) Key Quotes: "One of the things that really stood out to me was how many assistants mentioned in their comments that they had changed jobs multiple times—always searching for the right mentor, the right teacher, the right guide to help them take the next step in their career." "Many people don’t fully appreciate—or perhaps don’t even realize—just how early golf course teams start their day.”"It’s no different than diagnosing a turfgrass issue. If you’re dealing with a problem, you don’t hesitate to call an expert and ask." “It’s on them to ask the right questions, to communicate that they’re looking for guidance, career development, and mentorship. And if that doesn’t align with what’s happening in a particular agronomy department? Then it’s time to move on and find a place that does." "Some people are realizing they’d rather be at a B+ club where work-life balance is better, rather than pushing for that A+ club experience, where the demands can be overwhelming." Links and Resources Mentioned: Flagstick LLC: https://www.patjonesflagstick.com/ Pat Jones LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pat-jones-226766b0/

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• 047 I Capturing Golf’s Beauty: Evan Schiller on Photography, Course Design, and Maintenance

  In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Evan Schiller, one of the golf industry's most respected course photographers. Evan shares his journey from competitive golfer to capturing some of the world's most stunning golf courses. We discuss the role of photography in shaping a golf course’s brand, the behind-the-scenes work of superintendents, and the evolving trends in course design and maintenance. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Evan transitioned from playing professional golf to becoming a leading golf course photographer The meticulous planning and preparation involved in capturing the perfect golf course image Why high-quality photography is essential for a course’s branding, marketing, and membership attraction The often-overlooked contributions of golf course superintendents and maintenance crews How course architecture, grass types, and environmental considerations are shaping modern golf design The importance of relationships between photographers, superintendents, and architects in the golf industry Soundbytes: “That’s the kind of detail that makes a difference—not just for photography but for course maintenance. The grass tells a story, and I love learning from the people who care for it every day.” (34:44) “I’ll be in the parking lot, packing up my gear, when someone—maybe a member, a guest, or even a staffer—asks, Oh, are you heading out now to shoot? No, I’m done. I always get a surprised look. Wait, what? They don’t realize I’ve already been out there for hours.” (50:00) Key Quotes: "I was recently at Riviera, the bunkering there stood out as some of the best I’ve ever seen. Yes, some of the bunkers had steep faces, but the way they were designed and framed within the course was visually stunning. It wasn’t just about difficulty; it was about how they shaped the experience of the course. Truly some of the best I’ve ever seen.” “Many people don’t fully appreciate—or perhaps don’t even realize—just how early golf course teams start their day.” “It’s an incredible level of commitment that most people never see—but it’s what makes the flawless morning rounds possible.”

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• 046 I Behind the Numbers: Using Data to Drive Results

  In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler sits down with David J. McGregor, a seasoned turf professional and Master Greenkeeper, to discuss his journey from England to the U.S. and his insights into the differences in golf course management between the two regions. More importantly, David introduces Evoke IQ, an innovative automated budget tracking platform designed to streamline financial management for golf course superintendents and club managers. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: David McGregor’s Career Path – From his start at Wentworth Golf Club hosting European Tour events to leading operations at Westwood CC. U.S. vs. European Golf Course Management – Key differences in staffing, efficiency, and technology adoption. What is Evoke IQ? – How this platform automates budget tracking and integrates with existing accounting and payroll systems. Superintendents as Financial Stewards – How better financial visibility builds confidence with club leadership and improves overall course management. Soundbytes: “From the U.S., we admire England’s rich golf history, and from England, they admire the innovation and technology that drive the American golf industry.” (14:58) “A few years ago, I found myself spending too much time in my office, worrying about reports, invoices, and ensuring we were on track financially. Of course, I want my budget to be accurate, and I want to plan efficiently. But, as I’ve said before, I’m a greenkeeper at heart. Spending more time in the office than on the golf course became a real problem because, at the end of the day, we’re judged by the condition of the golf course.(23:18) Quotes: “One of my proudest accomplishments was becoming a Master Greenkeeper in 2019, which was a rewarding milestone and a way to stay connected to home.” "I was young—only 21—when I made the move to the U.S. I’d been a greenkeeper since I left school at 16. The system in England is a bit different; as long as you start college right away, you can also enter the workforce, which is exactly what I did. I loved greenkeeping then, and I still do, but at the time, I felt like I had nowhere to go. “To put it simply, it’s a budget-tracking tool that gives you a live budget, 365 days a year, with zero manual input. Gone are the days of checking the old manual ledgers, pulling labor reports, and manually compiling everything to understand where you stand financially.” “Evoke IQ automates data flow from our accounting system and payroll, linking it directly with our budgets and schedules. Now, when I walk into the office each morning, I can check my screen in just 15 seconds and know exactly where I stand with labor, ledger, and my overall budget. I can then walk out onto the golf course, make decisions in real-time, and know exactly where things are.” Links Mentioned: LinkedIn: David McGregor, https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mcgregor-mg-3a3299308/ Website: Evoke IQ, https://www.evokeiq.com/ 

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