In this episode, the Bloom Golf Partners team recaps their experience at the 2023 GCSAA Conference & Trade Show in San Diego. The team shares their insights and takeaways from the event, including what surprised them, memorable conversations, and how they see the industry evolving. They also discuss the importance of their team dynamic and how they can better communicate their services to the industry.

What You'll Learn:

1. Momentum in the Industry Needs to Be Captured: There’s a heightened interest in the golf industry as a career path, with growing opportunities in technology, autonomous equipment, and course infrastructure. Clubs that fail to engage with this momentum risk losing future talent.

• Career Growth & Relationships Matter: Witnessing colleagues progress in their careers, from assistant roles to leadership positions, was a source of pride and validation of the industry's development.
• Team dynamics: How the team dynamic and relationships have evolved, and the value they bring as a united front
• Diversity in attendees: The engagement with show attendees went beyond traditional industry roles, showcasing a broader network of professionals interested in workforce solutions.
• Clarifying Services is Key: Many people know what they want but don't know where to start. The team’s biggest opportunity is ensuring professionals understand how they can assist beyond just placements—through guidance, career coaching, and strategic advising.

Soundbytes:

• “We're in the business of helping people—whether it's connecting candidates with the right job or helping clients find the ideal candidate. Even if we can’t assist you directly, we have a broad network and can point you in the right direction.” (37:01)
• “I think some superintendents may underestimate the value of the national conference, but for those who attend and gain exposure to new tools, tips, and industry insights, the impact on their careers can be significant. The influence of that experience is often underrated, and sending a team to San Diego could be an invaluable investment in their growth.” (39:37)

Key Quotes:

• "The thing I was most surprised about was how many people whose lives we've impacted throughout the course of our time." - Mitch Rupert
• "I think the biggest change is going to be on our end and making sure that people understand what we do and what we're capable of doing." - Mitch Rupert
• "We're in the business of helping people, whether that's candidates find a job or clients, you know, finding a candidate. We also, we also are in the business of just helping people." - Mary Maloney
• “The industry is changing, and seeing how technology will play into staffing and job roles is something that really stood out to me.” - Ryan McNally
• "Many professionals know their end goal but struggle with the first step. That’s where we come in." - Mitch Rupert

Links and Resources Mentioned:

Website: www.bloomgolfpartners.com

LinkedIn

In today’s episode, we’re joined by a rising star in the turfgrass industry, Andi Meadows, Assistant Superintendent at TPC San Antonio. With a career that’s a testament to perseverance, continuous learning, and leadership, Andi takes us on a journey from crew member to assistant superintendent. Recently, she was awarded the prestigious $10,000 GCSAA Alan MacCurrach Jr. Scholarship, which will help her complete her degree in turfgrass science.

In this insightful conversation, Andi shares the lessons she’s learned along the way, including the importance of education, mentoring, and embracing technology in the ever-evolving world of golf course management. We’ll also explore her vision for the future of the industry, touching on trends like water conservation and tech-driven innovations. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, Andi’s story is sure to inspire and offer valuable takeaways for anyone in the turfgrass profession.

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• GCSAA Scholarship Award: Andi received the $10,000 Alan MacCurrach Jr. Scholarship from GCSAA and the PGA Tour to help fund her education through summer 2025.
• Mentoring and Leadership: Andi focuses on building strong relationships with her team, adjusting her teaching to each person’s needs. 
• Industry Trends and Future Outlook: Andi sees technology, like autonomous mowers and GPS sprayers, growing in the industry. She believes water conservation will become a key focus for golf courses. Technology will also help attract younger professionals, with education and specialization playing a big role in career advancement.
• Advice for Aspiring Turf Professionals: Andi’s advice: “Your feelings are not facts” – don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Consistency and hard work will lead to recognition. Education opens doors and builds confidence. Persistence is essential in achieving long-term goals.

Soundbites:

“Education has allowed me to demonstrate my dedication, my willingness to put in the hard work, and my commitment to personal growth. It’s not just about doing the fun stuff; it’s about showing I’m willing to make sacrifices—financially, personally, and professionally—to reach my goals.” (2:21)

“I've been in the turf industry since 2006, and back then, my world was very small. I didn’t realize how vast the turf community was or how interconnected everyone is. It was surprising to learn that once you put yourself out there, people are eager to embrace you, like a family.” (23:42)

Key Quotes:

• “The education I received helped me develop a stronger technical vocabulary, and it also pushed me to hold myself to a higher standard.”
• “The hands-on experience combined with my education has made it all come together for me. When I learn something and then teach it to others, the knowledge solidifies. It’s not just about taking a class and forgetting the details—it’s about truly understanding and applying what I know.”

• “The scholarship is for non-traditional students, which could mean a lot of things—not just someone who looks different but someone who’s changed career paths, like me. I’ve always had an interest in turf, but I am non-traditional in several ways.”

• “A lot of my mindset comes from my childhood. I learned early on that nothing is handed to you, and things are going to be tough. Often, it feels like one challenge leads into the next, but in those challenges are moments of reward, growth, and self-confidence.”

• “Before I recognized how much opportunity there really was, my perception of the golf industry was pretty rough. Some of the courses I worked at had low budgets, broken-down equipment, questionable staff, and conditions that were less than ideal—like boards on the windows or bars, sitting on decaying porches, and bathrooms that were in deplorable shape. It felt like a job for roughneck types.”

Links and Resources Mentioned:

Twitter: https://x.com/turfgrassbadass 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrienne-meadows-34b2a7139/ 

In this episode of Leadership on the Links, host Tyler Bloom sits down with Gina Rizzi, a leader in sustainability and inclusion in the golf industry. Through Radius Sports Group, ARCUS Marketing, and VRA Connect, Gina drives environmental stewardship, economic impact, and inclusion. 

We’ll discuss her role in developing state-level best management practice (BMP) guides and creating the first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report. Gina also introduces the BMP Hero platform, a groundbreaking tool simplifying BMP guide creation and helping golf courses showcase environmental leadership. 

Additionally, Gina highlights her diversity efforts, such as PGA VendorMatch events and the VRA Connect platform, which helps the golf industry connect with more than 5,000 local, small, and diverse suppliers. Finally, we’ll explore her work in economic impact reporting and the engaging “TurfBusters” segment, which busts industry myths with a mix of technical insights and humor. 

Let’s dive into this impactful conversation with Gina Rizzi. 

What You’ll Learn in this Episode: 

• Sustainability and Marketing Expertise: Gina Rizzi leads Radius Sports Group, ARCUS Marketing, and VRA Connect, focusing on sustainability, marketing, and inclusion within the golf industry. 

• BMP Hero Platform: Recently launched tool that streamlines the creation of facility-specific best management practice (BMP) guides for golf courses.
• Inclusion Initiatives: Rizzi’s efforts aim to connect new communities with golf industry opportunities. 

• Technological Advancements: Golf’s environmental and economic impact reporting is becoming increasingly sophisticated. 

Soundbites: 

“It's really about inclusiveness—making sure anyone who wants to be part of the industry has the opportunity, increasing awareness, and giving people a fair chance.” (22:10) 

"The BMP Hero platform is a game-changer, simplifying a process that used to take hours into just 30 minutes." (25:13) 

Key Quotes:

• “There’s a lot of focus on DEI in the news right now. Speaking personally, as a female business owner, I would never want to receive business just to check a box because I’m a woman. I want to earn it based on merit. The same applies to the workforce. I wouldn’t want to get a job just because of my gender—I want to be hired because I’m the best person for the role, period.” 

• “The goal is that if all facilities can have their BMPs, then this is something that the RGCSA can share with legislators and hopefully prevent them from having to undergo these types of irregular kinds of rules and laws or legislation between cities." 

• “When we talk about inclusion in the workforce, it’s about reaching out to local markets, schools, colleges, universities, and associations—connecting with people in non-traditional areas, beyond just sports management programs.” 

Links and Resources Mentioned: 

• Website: https://www.radiussportsgroup.com/ 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginarizzi/ 

• Email: [email protected]

In this episode, Tyler is joined by Mitch Rupert to dive into the groundbreaking findings of the 2025 Workforce Trends in Golf Study. If you’ve ever wondered why the golf industry struggles with talent attraction or how it can position itself as a career destination, this is the episode for you.

Whether you’re a golf course leader, HR professional, or just curious about the future of golf’s workforce, you’ll leave with actionable insights to help grow the industry. Let’s get started!

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• Why lack of industry awareness is the biggest hurdle for recruiting new talent.
• What makes Gen Z and individuals exposed to golf more likely to consider a career in the industry.
• The role of workplace culture, mentorship, and career development in employee retention.
• How competitive compensation and innovative benefits can reshape perceptions of golf industry jobs.
• Practical strategies to attract diverse talent and address misconceptions about careers in golf.

Soundbites:

“The barriers to employment in the golf and club industries aren’t necessarily tied to the typical factors like technical skills, benefits, or compensation—areas that often dominate conversations around recruitment and retention. Instead, what stands out to me is a broader issue: a lack of awareness. It’s not a matter of unmet needs, but rather a gap in understanding.” (13:30)

“Like many tools we encounter, this serves as a conversation starter. For employers struggling to effectively communicate with their teams, board members, or key stakeholders, this resource can provide valuable insights. It helps educate them on challenges they might currently be facing, fostering a deeper understanding and more productive discussions.”

Key Quotes:

• “63% of working Americans know someone who would consider a job at a golf course. So, first and foremost, it needs to be their internal teams and having some level of an employee referral program could be more than just a workplace perk. It could actually be a pretty effective hiring tool.”
• “Clubs investing in leadership training are actively cultivating a respectful workplace culture. By empowering department heads and team members to prioritize respect, they’re creating an environment that can have as much impact as compensation, benefits, and other key factors we’ve discussed.”
• “The first step to changing a problem is to recognize there is one and this feels like a good first step to that.”
• “Disrespectful management was the top reason cited. When engaging with people, I often reflect on this. In my experience on the front lines, the feedback is rarely about not making enough money. Instead, it’s usually about feeling unappreciated or disrespected.”
• “92% of working Americans would consider transitioning from a “job” to a “career” if the salary reached $70,000 or more.”

Links Mentioned:

2025 Workforce Trends in Golf: https://bloomgolfpartners.com/study/ 

In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler Bloom is joined by Chad Allen, Golf Course Superintendent at Chatham Hills, as they discuss Chad's unique career journey, his leadership insights, and his approach to evolving the golf course management industry. He was recently awarded the Emerging Leader Award by GCSAA. 

Chad shares how his non-traditional path, which started in substance abuse counseling, has shaped his leadership style and approach to staff empowerment, mentorship, and technology in golf course management.

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• Non-traditional career journey: Chad’s shift from substance abuse counseling to golf course management highlights the industry’s openness to individuals with diverse backgrounds.

• Leadership practices: Chad emphasizes the importance of open communication, staff empowerment, and bridging the gap between front- and back-of-house teams.

• Career growth: Networking, mentorship, and engaging in industry programs are vital for continual professional development in golf course management.

• Technology integration: Chad utilizes tools like GS3 technology to enhance course conditions and demonstrate professionalism to members through data-driven approaches.

Soundbites:

“Many of us are passive when it comes to putting ourselves out there and showcasing what our teams are accomplishing. I’m not a big "me" person; I prefer "we" and "us." I have to remind myself of that because, honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am without my team. But I also recognize that I need to be my own spokesman.” (13:59)

“I think that’s something that’s changing in the industry—moving away from the old “trade secrets” mentality. It’s about focusing on a community of like-minded people who are willing to help one another grow.” (28:46)

Key Quotes:

• “While there are hierarchies and chains of command that need to be respected, creating an environment where everyone is comfortable is key. When that’s in place, people can do their jobs without the stress of unnecessary tension.”

• “Leadership for me has been shaped by everything I’ve learned through training, my brother’s mentorship, and learning from those who lead by example.”

• “Step outside of your comfort zone. You have to do it consistently. Ask questions, take notes, and don’t let anything deter you from what you're trying to accomplish.”

• “I’m big on networking and sharing knowledge. I’m an open book—I don’t hide anything. If someone wants to know about my fertility program, I’ll send it over. What matters to me is fostering an open network where people can share information, make mistakes, and learn from each other.”

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-allen-659973226/ 

Episode OverviewIn this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Jeff White, CGCS, outgoing President of the GCSAA (Golf Course Superintendents Association of America). Jeff shares his journey from local chapter leadership to the national stage, offering insights into industry leadership, workforce development, environmental advocacy, and the future of golf course management.

Jeff reflects on his experiences, challenges, and the lessons he's learned while representing golf course superintendents worldwide.

Listeners will learn: 

• Leadership Growth: Transitioning to national leadership roles requires adaptability, strong support, and offers significant professional development.
• Member Engagement: Clearer storytelling and in-person experiences are key to showcasing GCSAA's value and engaging members.
• Workforce Development: Raising career awareness and offering dual pathways (education and training) are critical for attracting new talent.
• Environmental Stewardship: Expanding BMP adoption and active policy participation protect the industry's future.
• Global & Post-Leadership Insights: International experiences broaden perspectives, while planning and mentorship ease transitions after leadership roles.

Soundbytes:

"It's been an awesome ride. It’s been everything I thought it would be and more. When I say 'more,' I mean managing the balancing act of scheduling everything—family, work, GCSA, and so on. As you progress from being a junior board member to higher levels, you build a foundation. It’s similar to serving on a local committee or task group; you think you’re prepared for the next step, but once you get there, you realize there’s a steep learning curve. Representing 20,000 members is an incredible responsibility, and I’ve grown so much along the way." (0:12)

"One lesson I’ve learned throughout my career is to be yourself—there’s only one 'you.' I’ve also come to value listening as a skill. Communication is a two-way street. Great leaders know how to listen, really listen, and distill everyone’s thoughts into something cohesive. I’ve admired those who can wrap up a discussion with a single sentence that brings people together.” (38:06-40:00)

Quotes:

"Listening isn’t just about hearing words—it’s about understanding the message. That’s an area where I’m still growing, but I’ve seen how valuable it is for solving tough conversations and holding a group together."

"I think the Career Pathways initiative is on a solid upward trajectory. It's exciting because it represents the here and now, and I’ve seen a lot of initiatives evolve over my time on the board. This one still has room to grow—it’s not in its infancy, but it hasn’t fully matured either. It’s something that will always evolve.

“I’m passionate about the BMPs (Best Management Practices). It’s not a question of 'if' but 'when' these will become essential. Many people don’t understand BMPs yet, but they’re incredibly versatile tools. Whether you use them for internal purposes, like designing a wash station, or for outward-facing goals, like advocacy with local or national governments, they provide tremendous value.

"We need more people to embrace BMPs proactively instead of reactively. I’ve seen other countries where regulations were imposed because they weren’t at the table during discussions. Collectively, we’re working to protect the game, the environment, and our industry. Progress since 2020 has been slower than I’d like, but we’re moving in the right direction."

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

• GCSAA: www.gcsaa.org
• Tyler Bloom Consulting: www.tylerbloomconsulting.com
• X (formerly Twitter): @white70
• LinkedIn: Jeff White, CGCS

In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we welcome Jay Karen, CEO of the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA), to dive into the pressing trends and challenges shaping the golf industry today. With over 28 years of experience in association management and a mission to champion golf course owners and operators, Jay shares his unique perspectives on workforce development, emerging trends, and the industry's advocacy efforts.

Join us as we uncover strategies to navigate workforce challenges, explore revenue opportunities from alternative forms of play, and discuss the importance of advocacy in securing the future of golf.

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• Workforce Challenges and Opportunities: The golf industry must adapt to changing labor market dynamics by improving workplace culture and modernizing employment practices.
• Alternative/additive forms of play like simulators and night golf offer exciting revenue opportunities but come with operational challenges.
• Post-pandemic, sustained demand for golf has led to more aggressive pricing strategies and a shift toward "offense" in business planning.
• Despite positive performance metrics, advocacy remains critical to address legislative and regulatory challenges facing the industry.
• A coordinated, industry-wide effort on workforce development and recruitment, beyond individual associations' efforts is required to move the needle.

Soundbites:

• "We have 15,000 small businesses around this country that are robust small businesses. They're in every community in America, and we get overlooked in some way."
• "We rested on the laurels of love of the game, and we're seeing, generationally now, two generations later, honestly, that the value system of people that want to work today is not the same as what it was 30, 40, 50 years ago."

Quotes:

• "We've completely changed, the high demand has caused a complete mental shift towards what can I do with my business, and let me see what's possible with it instead of playing defense, we're on offense."
• "We have an entire television channel dedicated to our game. We have hundreds of millions, and if you look at the NGF research of how many people engage with the game in some way, as a fan, I might watch a clip of the Masters or Claygolf or I go to top, whatever."
• "If we want better people that are trained, better prepared people into the golf industry, we got to compete."
• "We get to have an enormous impact on an entire industry from one little office, and that's pretty special."
• "We're on offense. And four and a half years, almost five years into this now, we're still playing offense. And as business owners operators, holy cow, that is what you want to do."

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA): Website
• Connect with Jay Karen on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaykaren/ 

In this special year-end episode of Leadership on the Links, host Tyler Bloom and his team take a moment to reflect on their growth, experiences, and the milestones they've reached throughout the year. Each team member shares insights into their personal and professional development, the evolution of their roles, and the lessons they've learned along the way. 

Throughout the episode, Tyler and his team also discuss the importance of their work in recruitment, particularly within the competitive golf industry. The team reflects on the challenges and strategies involved in hiring top talent, emphasizing the importance of communication, open-mindedness, and adaptability throughout the recruitment process. They also stress the need for ongoing support and career development for candidates, recognizing that relationships go beyond just the hiring process.

The team takes pride in their achievements this year, reflecting on the pride they take in helping clients build strong teams and the long-term relationships they've cultivated. As they look forward to the future, they express excitement for expanding their capabilities and continuing to create opportunities for growth within the industry.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Challenges and Strategies in Recruitment: The team discusses the competitive landscape of the golf industry and how they’ve adapted their approach to meet evolving needs in recruitment.

• The Importance of Teamwork and Communication: How building strong internal relationships and open communication channels contribute to success in recruitment.

• Open-Mindedness and Adaptability: The speakers highlight the need for flexibility and a willingness to consider diverse candidates, which has been key to their success this year.

• Ongoing Career Development: The team stresses the importance of continuous support and career development for candidates to ensure long-term success and satisfaction.

• Looking Forward: Reflections on the team's achievements and aspirations for expanding their impact in the industry.

• Recruitment Success Through Teamwork: Effective recruitment within the competitive golf industry relies heavily on strong teamwork, clear communication, and adaptability to meet both client and candidate needs.

Quotes:

"A parachute is better when it's open."

"You're hiring a person, not a resume."

"You can't be afraid to tell your story."

“Not every effort yields immediate results, especially in recruiting. Adapting strategies and remaining persistent are crucial.”

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Tyler Bloom Consulting: www.tylerbloomconsulting.com

In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler sits down with Nick Mazzella, founder of The Mazzella Partnership and a leading expert in golf course project management and renovations. Nick shares his journey, from managing small-scale public projects to working with historic venues preparing for major championships. With his deep industry knowledge, Nick discusses the art of balancing large-scale transformations with smaller, strategic improvements that elevate a course without breaking the bank.

You’ll hear about Nick’s favorite tools and technology, his dream projects, and why he believes relationships are at the heart of success in the golf business. This conversation is packed with practical insights and thoughtful reflections, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about golf course design, management, or leadership.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Big vs. Small Projects: How Nick approaches large-scale renovations and smaller, budget-conscious improvements.

• Client Relationships: Why understanding client needs and building strong connections drive successful outcomes.

• The Role of Technology: A deep dive into the Trimble Catalyst GPS tool and its impact on field efficiency and cost estimation.

• Industry Trends: Nick’s perspective on the exciting opportunities in the current golf course design and renovation market.

• Leadership Insights: The importance of team-building, mentoring, and fostering relationships within the golf industry.

Soundbites:

"There's no replacement for actual time in the field and understanding what it takes to make these things happen." (2:46)

"Project management is a science. The vertical [construction] world is completely different than golf. And I'm glad I'm on the golf side." (17:11)

Key Quotes:

• “There’s nothing quite like the excitement of working on a historic venue with a major championship on the horizon.”

• “Success in this industry is about the people—the relationships you build and the passion you share for the game.”

• “Whether it’s an $8 per square foot renovation or a $30 million project, the goal is always to deliver value and quality for the client.”

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• The Mazzella Partnership: www.mazellapartnership.com

• Nick Mazzella LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-mazzella-a6938a13/

• Tyler Bloom’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-bloom-603b6243/

In this episode, Tyler sits down with style experts Eric and Lisa to discuss the importance of personal style and how it can elevate your professional image. Eric and Lisa share their journey of combining their talents in fashion and hair design to help clients feel confident and polished. 

They dive into common misconceptions about style, the benefits of a closet purge and capsule wardrobe, and practical tips for busy professionals to balance comfort and sophistication. Eric and Lisa also share their most rewarding client experiences and how personal style can boost self-esteem.

Listeners will learn:

• Why personal style matters beyond just looking good
• How to simplify the process of building a versatile wardrobe 
• Quick wins to elevate your professional image without a complete overhaul
• Where to connect with Eric and Lisa for a complimentary style evaluation

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up their personal brand and make a lasting impression. Tune in to hear how personal style can be a powerful tool in your professional development.

Soundbytes:

"First impressions matter—you only get one chance to make a good one. Even if people are familiar with who you are, if they haven’t met you in person yet, how you present yourself when you walk into a room speaks volumes. Your energy and confidence might be there, but if your outfit—say, jeans and a t-shirt or a casual golf polo—doesn’t quite align with expectations, it could create a disconnect. People might subconsciously think, Hmm, I expected them to be dressed differently. Those snap judgments, however unfair, are something we all make." (19:44)

"Only keep pieces that you love and make you feel good and elevated." (32:09-32:22)

Quotes: "Personal styling is so much more than just clothes. It's helping people overcome obstacles, mental roadblocks, they didn't even potentially even know what they had."

"Many people say, Oh, I’m not into style; it’s not my thing. But the reality is, we all wear clothes every single day, so it makes sense to choose outfits that make us feel comfortable and confident. Whether you’re running errands at the grocery store or going out to dinner with your significant other, your clothing should help you feel at ease and project confidence in your presence." Links Mentioned in this Podcast:

Erlise Hair and Wardrobe Consulting - https://www.erlise.com

Tyler Bloom Consulting: https://tylerbloomconsulting.com/

Connect with Eric Saranto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-saranto-a61a93303/

Connect with Lisa Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-smith-85983868/