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/

In this episode of Leadership on the Links, host Tyler Bloom sits down with Scott Pavalko, the Superintendent at Castle Pines Golf Club, as he shares his journey from his early days in Ohio to leading at iconic courses like Muirfield Village and Cog Hill. Scott discusses the unique challenges of transitioning to Castle Pines, managing turf in diverse climates, and his commitment to continuous improvement in golf course management.

Scott offers valuable lessons on leadership, focusing on the importance of adaptability, resilience, and relationship-building. He reflects on his own leadership evolution and how mentorship, strategic decision-making, and clear communication have been integral to his success. You’ll also hear about the balance of managing high expectations from both staff and members, while prioritizing family and work-life balance.

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• Turf Management Strategies: Key considerations for navigating climate challenges and managing turf in different environments.
• Continued Growth: The significance of ongoing learning and making incremental improvements to elevate the member experience.
• Being Adaptable: How to lead through change, adapt to new challenges, and manage high-stakes decisions with clarity and confidence.
• Leadership Evolution: The role of mentorship, relationship-building, and strategic thinking in long-term career success.
• Work-Life Balance: Insights into managing a demanding career while maintaining resilience and prioritizing family life.

Soundbytes: "I was very naive as to kind of what the turf industry was." (5:21 - 5:25)

"My dad's saying was, you kill him with kindness, and that was kind of his motif."  (40:01)

Quotes: "I think it's just listening and being willing to learn. Not everything's the same, but the fundamentals are."

"I think it's just the way I'm wired and it's what I love about the job is just always trying to find ways to get better. And then if we can't find ways to get better, then let's try to find ways to keep doing what we're doing more efficiently or find ways to just give people better balance in life or whatever it may be."

"He's the Michael Jordan of Superintendents, and he's the most humble person you will find."

"I could not be more proud of how these guys responded and it was really incredible to see. It wasn't without its hiccups. I mean, everybody invested a lot of time and probably some of them to the detriment of their personal life, the sacrifice that was put forth to put this tournament on. Which happens every week on the PGA Tour."

Links Mentioned in this Podcast:

Tyler Bloom Consulting: https://tylerbloomconsulting.com/ Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-pavalko-310a8989/

In this episode, host Tyler Bloom sits down with Bill Langley, the General Manager of The Club at Quail Ridge, to discuss Langley's extensive career in the club management industry. Langley shares his journey, from opening and transitioning clubs to managing large-scale resort and development projects over the past 30 years. 

Langley emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and camaraderie within the club management community. He shares insights on effectively managing up (with the board), down (with department heads), and across (with other directors) to align the team and drive success.

The conversation also covers Langley's strategies for engaging with golf course superintendents and committees, including the value of hands-on site visits and a calm, rational approach to navigating high-stress situations. Langley stresses the need for superintendents to develop strong presentation and communication skills to effectively advocate for their needs.

Throughout the discussion, Langley's passion for the club management industry shines through, as he reflects on the unique opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth that the field provides. His advice to his younger self and others aspiring to leadership roles underscores the importance of maintaining composure, building connections, and embracing the dynamic nature of the business.

This episode offers valuable insights for club managers, superintendents, and anyone interested in the inner workings and camaraderie of the private club industry.

What You’ll Learn in this Episode:

• How to attract young professionals: Engaging and retaining young professionals in the club industry is a challenge that requires initiatives like meet and greets, continuing education, work-life balance, stability, and benefits are important factors in attracting and retaining talent.

• General managers play a crucial role in managing up, down, and sideways, and effective communication is key.

• Member relations: Building relationships, remaining calm, listening intently during stressful situations, and networking with stakeholders is essential for success in the industry.

• The camaraderie and networking opportunities in the club industry are valuable and can lead to lifelong friendships.

• Superintendent Insights: Visibility and improving communication are key skills for superintendents to develop with stakeholders.

Soundbytes:

"Silence is a tactic." (12:92 seconds)

"The first person that gets mad loses." (14:01 seconds) 

"Don't be a shrinking violet." (27:08)

Key Quotes:

• "Our challenge is how do we get them in? How do we get them engaged and how do we keep them engaged?"

• "You're never going to have to work an overnight shift here in the club industry. You're not going to be at risk of getting transferred from one hotel to another."

• "Your success in this industry doesn't have to be a linear pathway."

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Bill Langley’s LinkedIn Profile: LinkedIn

• Tyler Bloom’s LinkedIn Profile: LinkedIn

Many professionals find themselves at a career crossroads, contemplating a career change or transition. Whether it's moving from a superintendent role to a sales/marketing position, or exploring opportunities beyond the golf course, these transitions can be both exciting and daunting.

Eric Snelsire, a seasoned veteran of the golf industry, has experienced his fair share of career pivots. From his early days as an assistant superintendent at prestigious clubs like Oakmont Country Club, to becoming a superintendent at facilities like The Links at Lighthouse Sound, and eventually transitioning into sales and marketing roles, Eric has navigated the challenges and opportunities that come with changing paths.

For those considering a career transition in the golf industry, Eric's story serves as a testament to the importance of self-reflection, skill development, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. By approaching these transitions with a positive mindset and a commitment to continuous learning, golf professionals can unlock new opportunities and find fulfillment in their evolving careers.

Transitioning to Sales

One of the primary challenges Eric faced during his transition was the perceived stigma associated with moving from the superintendent role to a sales position. "I would say that there's a little bit of an ego first for me having the background that I had of working at US Open Golf courses that there was almost a negative connotation of transitioning into sales like I had given up in my career, so to speak," he shared.

This perception, unfortunately, is not uncommon in the industry, as some may view a move away from the golf course as a step back or a lack of dedication. However, Eric was quick to dispel this notion, emphasizing the valuable skills and experiences he gained as a superintendent that ultimately prepared him for success in his new role.

Developing New Skills

Another significant challenge Eric encountered was the need to develop new skill sets beyond agronomy. As a superintendent, the focus is often on maintaining the golf course to the highest standards, but as Eric noted, "Superintendents need to kind of take that leap of faith and say, I'm really a leader in this organization or club that I need to be at the table. And if you fear confrontation or those situations, just understand that there are going to be decisions made that are going to impact you that you're not going to have a say."

This shift in mindset, from solely focusing on the golf course to becoming a strategic business partner, can be a difficult transition for some. However, Eric emphasizes the importance of self-evaluation, continuous education, and developing leadership skills to ensure a successful career transition.

Despite the challenges, Eric's career journey also highlights the strengths and opportunities that can come with a career change. His diverse experience, from working at elite clubs to public facilities, has given him a unique perspective that he now leverages in his sales and marketing role.

Soundbytes:

“There's a place for everybody. If being at the elite clubs, like, early part of my career was something that you desire, you know, there's sacrifice to be made like that." (8:35-8:45)

"Superintendents need to kind of take that leap of faith and say, I'm really a leader in this organization or club that I need to be at the table. And if you fear confrontation or those situations, just understand that there are going to be decisions made that are going to impact you that you're not going to have a say." (25:40)

Quotes:

"When your crew knows their work isn’t just about maintaining grass, but about creating a memorable experience, that’s when you see real pride and commitment." "It's not just about a well-groomed course; it's about understanding how every maintenance decision impacts the playability. If you want a course that meets the needs of every golfer, you have to plan every detail with that in mind." "Being part of our local GCSAA chapter isn’t just networking; it’s about sharing challenges and solutions with people who are in the same trenches. It’s invaluable for growth and camaraderie." "Every course has its own challenges, but when you work your way up, you learn to adapt to different budgets, expectations, and standards. The fundamentals don’t change; it’s just a matter of raising the bar." "If you’re starting out, focus on mastering the basics of agronomy, build your network, and remember that your reputation is everything in this industry."

In this episode, Tyler talks with Matthew Shaffer, a renowned former golf course superintendent, about his career path and the lessons he's learned from various roles, including at high-profile clubs like Merion Golf Club and Augusta National, and humble beginnings.

He credits his time at Hershey Food Corporation for shifting his perspective. At Hershey, he learned to see a golf course as a business asset rather than merely a space to protect. This exposure, combined with the mentorship of legendary superintendent Paul Latshaw Sr., gave him a "recipe for success." 

Passionate about the profession, he describes his dedication and innovation to growing grass, mentoring, and equipment as essential to his role. 

Developing a team in today’s environment

Given the shortage of turf graduates, clubs must consider candidates from diverse educational backgrounds, such as sciences or teaching, for positions traditionally held by turf specialists. He emphasizes that creativity and adaptability can make non-traditional candidates strong assets. 

During his time at Merion, Shaffer described the value of strong mentorship in creating a positive reputation and providing a supportive environment that allows team members to lead, make mistakes, and learn through correction.

Shaffer advises clubs to focus on cultivating their own talent, acknowledging that good team members may eventually leave but can contribute significantly in the meantime. He shares examples of successful mentors, such as Duane Schell, who excelled at developing people despite limited resources. 

The importance of communication, work-life balance, and leadership will be critical to retaining and developing today's assistants. Shaffer insisted on communication skills, even sending his team members to Dale Carnegie courses, despite their reluctance. Noting that while each person had a unique style—some stoic, others chatty—all shared qualities of resilience, focus, and a commitment to learning through their mistakes.

Understanding club culture and respect for everyone's roles

Maintaining an adaptable skills and clear communication with stakeholders given evolving club expectations, like the shift from a "brown and firm" aesthetic to "green and fast."

During the hiring process for superintendents, it’s crucial to be transparent, helping the club understand its role in supporting the superintendent, rather than placing all responsibility on them. Shaffer advocates for educating Green Committees and hiring parties on resource limitations, suggesting that clubs often need to reassess their own priorities and funding distribution to achieve desired outcomes.

He acknowledges the challenges that General Managers (GMs) face and underscores the value of understanding their roles, noting that success in golf course management relies on a strong relationship between the superintendent, GM, and golf pro—a "three-legged stool" essential for stability. 

Strong communicators tend to navigate challenges better and foster trust with members and the General Manager around maintenance practices.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode offers actionable takeaways on leadership, innovation, and navigating the challenges of the golf course industry.

In this episode, we’re diving into the power of personal branding—not just as a tool for visibility, but as a journey in personal development with Rachel Gogos, owner of BrandID. Rachel shares her career journey, from starting in higher education and working at the United Nations to launching her agency focused on personal branding and business strategy.

The importance of self-discovery in personal branding

Rachel shares when we truly understand our strengths, vision, and how we want to be perceived, we’re better equipped to attract the right opportunities and have a greater impact on our audience.

Building a personal brand isn’t just about creating visuals or a website. It starts with self-discovery. Doing the inner work helps us to communicate who we are and what we stand for with authenticity and confidence. 

Starting with a clear sense of mission and the legacy you want to leave behind. This could be a game-changer for superintendents aiming to elevate their career, as it aligns their daily actions with a bigger purpose and helps others understand their unique value.

360-degree approach to gain valuable insights

Using a 360-degree assessment allows individuals to see themselves from others' perspectives. This technique could help superintendents understand the strengths others see in them that they might overlook, which could be particularly helpful in interviews or networking.

Focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses can accelerate growth. Superintendents, often perfectionists by nature, could benefit from identifying what they naturally excel at and finding ways to use those skills to differentiate themselves.

Personal branding doesn’t have to be boastful

In fact, sharing expertise and experiences humbly is a powerful way to build credibility without feeling overly promotional. Superintendents can educate and inspire through their personal brand, which would naturally attract more opportunities and align with their authentic selves.

Having a clear, authentic intention in one’s messaging makes a difference. For leaders who genuinely want to contribute positively to the industry, it’s important to keep promoting these values without worry. It resonates, as Rachel said, and reinforces trust with your audience.

From using websites and visuals to create a compelling experience to empowering employees as brand ambassadors, strong branding is as important internally as it is externally. Plus, we’ll touch on trends in brand-building, like using video, organic social media, and focusing on educational, inspirational content rather than constant selling.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a roadmap to building a personal brand that not only attracts your ideal clients but also brings clarity to your purpose, team and impact—enhancing your personal and professional life. Let’s get started!

Soundbytes

"As leaders or business owners, we can only build our team and culture as much as we ourselves have grown. To create winning teams, we need to keep developing personally, whether we own the company or not." (14:59-16:00)

"Building a personal brand isn’t about creating a facade—it’s about understanding who you truly are, the reputation you hold, and the qualities people associate with you, then consistently showing up as that person in all areas of your life." (22:42-23:05)

Quotes

• I truly believe that when things come together easily, it’s a sign that our path is being guided—a green light from God to move in that direction."

• "We can only grow our team and culture as far as we've grown ourselves. If we want to keep building winning teams, whether we own the company or not, we must continue investing in our personal growth."

• "The more we work in our strengths, the more fulfilled and joyful we feel day to day. Recognizing our weaknesses helps us round out our team by placing the right people in roles where we may not excel."

• "This isn't about crafting an image or results; it’s about clarifying who you are at your core—your reputation and the qualities others associate with you—and showing up consistently across all areas of your life."

• "Share content under your personal brand, even if you work for an organization, because people want to connect with people. We’ve seen this firsthand—our personal posts generate far higher engagement than those on our business page."

Links Mentioned in This Episode:

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

Connect with Rachel Gogos on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelgogos/

BrandID: https://thebrandid.com