Welcome to Leadership on the Links, the essential podcast for golf course superintendents, general managers, and executives who are passionate about mastering the art of golf course management. Hosted by Tyler Bloom, this podcast brings you into the world of golf course leadership with insightful interviews, expert advice, and actionable strategies designed to help you excel in your role. Each episode features in-depth conversations with industry experts who share their knowledge on a wide range of topics, from turf management and sustainability to team leadership and operational efficiency. Tyler's engaging style ensures that every discussion is not only informative but also enjoyable, capturing the spirit of a casual yet insightful chat as if you're walking the course with a trusted mentor.
Few voices in the agronomic community carry the credibility of John Reilly, a Director of Agronomy known throughout the industry as "Turf Monkey." John has built one of the more innovative data-driven programs in the country across 45 challenging holes of coastal Florida golf. On this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler sits down with John to explore the career path, the philosophy, and the relentless curiosity behind a benchmark approach to conditioning and member engagement. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How John's formative years at renowned Philadelphia-area clubs, including Rolling Green and Merion, shaped his standards and his approach to course conditioning. The career path that brought him from intern to Director of Agronomy, including pivotal stops at multi-course facilities and a Coore Crenshaw grow-in. Why he initially resisted Paspalum and what ultimately convinced him it was the right grass for a unique coastal Florida environment. How John built a data-driven agronomic program from the ground up, incorporating moisture monitoring, firmness readings, clipping yield, and Stimpmeter consistency. The value of transparent member communication, and how driving the narrative proactively builds trust with members and management alike. His perspective on information-sharing within the golf industry and why greater transparency could benefit facilities at every level. What he believes is the most underrated maintenance practice in the profession today. LINKS AND RESOURCES John Reilly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-reilly-057024225/
Leadership on the Links Summit Join us at the Leadership on the Links Summit on October 12, 2026 at Toftrees Golf Resort in State College, Pennsylvania. This one-day gathering brings together superintendents, directors of agronomy, club executives, and industry leaders for a day focused on personal branding, leadership development, and building high performing teams. Register here: https://bloomgolfpartners.com/our-events/ ------ In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we explore the science and philosophy of biological soil management with Joel Simmons, Founder and President of EarthWorks Natural Organic Products. Joel shares his journey from Penn State county extension agent to co-founding EarthWorks with the late Jerry Brunetti in 1988, pioneering a carbon based approach to soil health that was once dismissed by academics and is now standard practice across the turfgrass industry. Tyler and Joel discuss why soil testing functions like blood work for a golf course, what separates truly engaged superintendents from the rest, and how emerging technology, from autonomous mowers to AI driven agronomic programs, is reshaping the profession. Joel also reflects on his decade teaching soils at Rutgers University and how that work evolved into the GCSAA accredited Soil First Academy. If you care about agronomy fundamentals, superintendent development, or the future of soil health in golf, this is a conversation worth your time. What You'll Learn in this Episode How Joel's path from Penn State county extension agent and executive recruiter led to co-founding EarthWorks and establishing biological soil management in the turf industry. Why carbon based fertility was heavily criticized in the early 1990s and how it became a fixture in virtually every golf course maintenance facility today. Why Joel compares soil testing to a patient's blood work, and how roughly 15,000 annual soil tests anchor EarthWorks' agronomic recommendations. What has stayed constant in golf course maintenance, including superintendent intuition, and what is changing rapidly, from autonomous mowers to research on the rhizophagy cycle. How the Soil First Academy condenses Joel's ten years of Rutgers soils instruction into a GCSAA accredited seminar on soil chemistry, physics, and biology. How EarthWorks is developing an AI based program that tailors recommendations to each property's specific soil and water data. How Tyler and Joel evaluate genuine engagement and mastery of fundamentals when vetting superintendent candidates. Links and Resources Leadership on the Links Summit Registration: https://bloomgolfpartners.com/our-events/ Joel Simmons – LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-simmons-504b7241/ EarthWorks Natural Organic Products: https://www.earthworksturf.com/ Soil First Academy: https://www.earthworksturf.com/soil-first-academy/
Few names in the professional turfgrass industry carry the weight of the Valentine family, whose multigenerational connection to Merion Golf Club spans more than a century and helped shape the foundation of Penn State's nationally recognized turfgrass management program. Growing up on the grounds of one of the most storied clubs in American golf, Tom Valentine absorbed the rhythms of course management from his grandfather, Joseph Valentine, and his father, Richie Valentine, before charting his own path on the commercial side of the industry. Today, as Portfolio Manager at The Aquatrols Company, he brings that deep institutional knowledge to bear in support of superintendents and turf managers throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. In this episode of Leadership on the Links, host Tyler Bloom sits down with Tom Valentine for a candid conversation about industry legacy, the evolution of sales, career development in the green industry, and what it means to carry a family name that helped define turf management in America. What You'll Learn in This Episode The Valentine family's three-generation legacy at Merion Golf Club spans from the founding era of American turfgrass management through 1989, and includes the establishment of Penn State's Joseph E. Valentine Turfgrass Research Center in honor of Tom's grandfather. Richie Valentine led Merion's agronomy program by empowering his assistants with meaningful autonomy, a management philosophy that produced numerous professionals who went on to lead some of the most prestigious clubs and properties in the country. The golf industry experienced a defining compensation and budget inflection point in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when superintendent salaries and operational budgets increased dramatically as clubs transitioned from wholly in-house operations to a model that incorporated outside contractors and specialists. The rise of outside consultants in the 1990s, including those on the agronomic and architectural sides, fundamentally changed the way club memberships received and acted on course management recommendations. Sales methods in the green industry have evolved from relationship-driven, in-person territory management toward a hybrid model shaped by digital communication and accelerated by the changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, while personal relationships remain a meaningful differentiator for high-performing sales professionals. Tom completed his Master of Professional Studies in Turfgrass Management at Penn State at age 50, a decision he credits with making him a significantly more effective resource for the superintendents he supports on the commercial side. Career paths in the turfgrass industry extend well beyond the superintendent role, and professionals who gain experience on the commercial side before returning to course management often bring a broader business perspective that benefits the clubs they serve. Links and Resources Tom Valentine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-valentine-70111926/ The Aquatrols Company: https://www.aquatrols.com Merion Golf Club: https://www.meriongolfclub.com Penn State Joseph E. Valentine Turfgrass Research Center: https://plantscience.psu.edu/research/centers/turf
In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler Bloom sits down with Stephen Tucker, Director of Equipment Operations at TPC Sawgrass and founder of Turf Addict, for a conversation spanning career development, team leadership, workforce challenges, and the growing role of technology in golf course maintenance. Stephen brings a rare perspective to the discussion, having spent his career on both sides of the equipment management relationship and now building his own software platform designed to modernize how golf facilities track, manage, and optimize their equipment operations. Stephen reflects on his path from player to industry professional, shares what shaped his leadership philosophy across two decades at Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton properties, and offers candid insight into the workforce pipeline challenges that have long defined the equipment management profession. The conversation closes with a detailed look at the AI-powered platform Stephen has been quietly developing, a system designed to give golf operations the data-driven tools they need to reduce reactive maintenance, improve equipment longevity, and better communicate the value of the equipment team to club leadership. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How Stephen's career evolved from equipment manager to director of agronomy, and what he observed from both sides of the superintendent-equipment manager relationship. Why the equipment management profession has grown increasingly demanding, and how compensation has shifted to reflect the expanded scope of the role. The workforce pipeline challenge facing the industry, and why career awareness remains one of the most underleveraged tools for attracting new talent. Practical strategies for superintendents to build stronger partnerships with their equipment teams, including the value of collaborative weekly meetings and visible recognition. The AI-powered operations platform Stephen has developed through Turf Addict, including predictive maintenance capabilities, real-time error code monitoring via John Deere's Operations Center, and cutting unit management tools. Why Stephen built the platform to be AI-agnostic, allowing facilities to integrate their preferred AI system regardless of corporate policy. The broader implications of technology adoption in golf course operations, and what superintendents and directors should be thinking about as these tools continue to evolve. Links and Resources Stephen Tucker | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenrtucker/ Turf Addict | Website: https://www.stephentucker.net/ TPC Sawgrass | Website: https://tpc.com/sawgrass/ IGCEMA (International Golf Course Equipment Managers Association): https://www.igcema.org/ GCSAA (Golf Course Superintendents Association of America): https://www.gcsaa.org/ BOOK A STRATEGY CALL
In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler Bloom sits down with Darin Bevard, Senior Director of Championship Agronomy for the USGA Green Section, for a conversation spanning nearly three decades of service to the game at its highest level. Darin shares how a mentor's challenge early in his career led him to trade a comfortable assistant superintendent role for a position with the USGA in 1996, and how that decision shaped a career defined by championship preparation, industry leadership, and a deep commitment to developing the next generation of turf professionals. Recorded on the eve of the US Open at Shinnecock Hills, this episode offers a rare look at what it takes to prepare a championship golf course and the collaborative processes that drive decisions when the world's best players are watching. What You'll Learn in this Episode: How Darin's career path from Penn State and Talbot Country Club led him to the USGA, where he has served for nearly 30 years across roles in regional agronomy and championship preparation. The evolution of the USGA agronomist role, from handwritten consulting reports to data-driven course management supported by tools like the DEACON platform and GPS sprayer technology. How Darin thinks about balancing agronomic data with field observation, and why the most effective superintendents rely on both numbers and experience. The collaborative process behind US Open course setup, including how the USGA works with host clubs, setup teams, and player feedback to make incremental adjustments throughout championship week. Darin's perspective on the USGA's Greenkeeper Apprenticeship Program and why workforce development initiatives like this are critical to the long-term health of the industry. His excitement about autonomous mowing technology, the resurgence of turfgrass education programs, and the growing diversity of professionals entering the field. The personal dimension of a career in golf course management, including family members who have followed Darin into the industry. Links and Resources Darin Bevard — LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darin-bevard-6b8b4128/ Darin Bevard — USGA Green Section Profile: https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/course-care/meet-the-agronomists-new/darin-bevard.html USGA Greenkeeper Apprenticeship Program: https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/course-care/greenkeeper-apprenticeship-program.html USGA Course Consulting Service: https://gsshop.usga.org/course-consulting-service Bloom Golf Partners: https://bloomgolfpartners.com/
In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler Bloom is joined by Connor Healy, Superintendent at Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake Forest, Illinois, one of the premier private clubs on the North Shore of Chicago. Connor traces his career from an early start caddying at Ravisloe Country Club to working alongside respected industry mentors at Old Elm and Olympia Fields, before establishing a long-tenured career at Conway Farms. He also discusses his decision to pursue an MBA at DePaul University while serving as sole assistant through a major course renovation, a commitment that broadened his perspective on club leadership and helped position him for the superintendent role. This is a thoughtful conversation about professional development, team building, and what it means to lead with intention at a high-caliber private club. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How foundational experiences under respected mentors at Old Elm, Bel Air, and Olympia Fields shaped Connor's approach to the profession. Why pursuing an MBA while managing a course renovation demonstrated a level of commitment that resonated with club leadership. The value of cross-departmental relationships with the director of golf and COO in building the trust and credibility necessary for an internal promotion. How meaningful exposure to members, board meetings, and club committees distinguished Connor as a prepared and capable successor. Connor's approach to staff development: assessing individual goals, building on existing strengths, and supporting team members in finding the right opportunities for their growth. Why consistent, ongoing feedback and open communication are central to preparing assistant superintendents for the responsibilities of club leadership. A measured perspective on work-life balance and how thoughtful scheduling and clear expectations contribute to a more sustainable and professional work environment. Connor's involvement with the Super Scratch Foundation and his commitment to supporting the next generation of golf course management professionals. Links and Resources Connor Healy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-healy-2982a021/ Conway Farms Golf Club: https://www.conwayfarmsgolfclub.org/ Super Scratch Foundation: https://www.superscratchfoundation.org/ Bloom Golf Partners: https://bloomgolfpartners.com/
BOOK A STRATEGY CALL In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Joel Inman, CCM, PGA, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer at Montclair Golf Club in West Orange, New Jersey. After 14 years leading Laurel Creek Country Club, Joel recently assumed leadership of one of New Jersey's most historic and multifaceted private clubs. Joining Tyler Bloom and Meredith Otero, Joel shares insights on leadership, organizational culture, team development, and navigating transition in a new environment. The conversation explores the realities of leading a large, member-focused operation and the importance of building trust, alignment, and long-term success through people. Whether you are a club manager, golf professional, superintendent, or emerging leader, this episode offers practical perspectives on leadership in today's private club industry. Links and Resources Joel Inman, CCM, PGA on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-inman-pga/ Montclair Golf Club: https://montclairgolfclub.org/ Bloom Golf Partners: https://bloomgolfpartners.com/ BOOK A STRATEGY CALL
In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Kent Johnson, COO of Baltimore Country Club, one of the most storied platinum-level private clubs in the country. Kent pulls back the curtain on what it actually takes to build a club culture that runs through every layer of an organization, from the board room to the line-level staff. He shares the philosophy behind BCC's "Great People Make Favorite Places" credo, how BCC University keeps staff engaged and growing, and why the club has leaned hard into becoming a community employer of choice in a tight labor market. If you lead a club, manage a team, or are simply passionate about what high-performance hospitality looks like in a private club setting, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. What You'll Learn in this Episode: How Kent built BCC's "Great People Make Favorite Places" culture over eight years and why it starts long before anyone is hired. Why BCC University, with 70 to 80 classes per year taught by staff, members, and celebrities like Cal Ripken Jr., keeps team engagement high and turnover low. The role of cross-departmental leadership meetings in breaking down silos and driving the club's core values to every level of the organization. How hosting USGA championship events, including the US Senior Amateur and Women's Amateur, helps BCC attract elite agronomy and hospitality talent. Kent's honest take on where the club management industry is headed, including the workforce pipeline challenge facing agronomy and equipment manager roles. Why developing talent from within is the most reliable recruiting strategy in today's tight labor market. How the GM-superintendent relationship should work, and what "just get out of their way" really means in practice. Links and Resources: Kent Johnson, Baltimore Country Club: LinkedIn Baltimore Country Club: baltimorecc.org Tyler Bloom, Bloom Golf Partners: bloomgolfpartners.com Book Mentioned: The Simple Truth About Your Business by Alex Brennan-Martin Book Mentioned: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara Club Management Association of America: cmaa.org
In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with two of the most respected figures at one of golf's most iconic clubs, Paul Latshaw, Director of Golf Course Operations at Merion Golf Club, and Golf Course Superintendent, Alexander Bonini, to dig into what it really takes to build a culture of excellence in turf management. From Merion's legendary impact on the turf industry to the hands-on mentorship philosophy that has shaped careers across the country, Paul and Alex share the principles behind one of the most admired grounds programs in the game. We also get into the evolving role of the superintendent as both a field agronomist and organizational leader, and what may be the most pressing staffing challenge the industry faces. Whether you're an intern just entering the field, an assistant looking to take the next step, or a club leader trying to build a winning team, this conversation is packed with insights you won't find anywhere else. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why Merion Golf Club has functioned like a "teaching hospital" for the turf industry, developing generations of superintendents, assistants, and professionals who've gone on to lead elite clubs nationwide. How Paul Latshaw approaches staff culture from day one, and why attitude and effort always outrank technical skill when hiring. The power of tailored intern experiences and why Alex Bonini and the Merion team leverage their alumni to do the recruiting for them. What first-time superintendents almost always misunderstand about the job before they land it. How the superintendent role has evolved into a CEO-level position and why staying in the field remains the most valuable thing a great super can do. A behind-the-scenes look at preparing Merion for the 2025 US Amateur Championship in August, one of the most demanding tournament prep challenges Paul says he has ever faced. Why the equipment manager may be the hardest position to fill at a private club and what clubs need to do right now to prepare for a looming talent gap in that role. The generational shift happening in how young turf professionals view their careers, and why Paul and Tyler both believe we are entering a golden age for the turfgrass industry. Links and Resources Paul Latshaw -- LinkedIn Profile Alexander Bonini -- LinkedIn Profile Merion Golf Club -- Website Bloom Golf Partners -- bloomgolfpartners.com Leadership on the Links Podcast -- Listen Here
BOOK A STRATEGY CALL In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we dig into one of the most urgent and overlooked workforce challenges in the golf industry, the equipment manager pipeline crisis. Tyler Bloom is joined by Pat Jones, veteran golf industry journalist and researcher, and Mike Rollins of SIP, for a revealing breakdown of their third employment trends study, this time focused entirely on golf course equipment managers. Together, they unpack data gathered from over 110 respondents to paint a clear picture of a role that is vital, evolving, and dangerously understaffed. From aging workforce demographics to the cultural dynamics that drive equipment managers out the door, this conversation challenges superintendents, directors of agronomy, and club leaders to take real action before the house truly is on fire. If you care about turf quality, equipment reliability, or what it takes to sustain the record-breaking growth golf is experiencing right now, this is a conversation you cannot afford to miss. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Nearly 80% of equipment managers describe themselves as lifers, but asterisks apply: poor culture and lack of advocacy from superintendents remain the top reasons they leave. 59% of respondents have 20 or more years of experience, while only 5% have entered the field in the last five years, revealing a dangerous gap in the pipeline. Equipment manager knowledge is largely informal and tribal, with no dedicated formal training programs currently filling the gap left by schools like Lake City Community College. Annual performance reviews and transparent compensation pathways consistently rank as top retention drivers, often more than pay increases themselves. Culture eats strategy: superintendents who advocate for their equipment managers in budget meetings, board rooms, and day-to-day operations are the single biggest factor in retention. The role has expanded well beyond cutting units to include robotics, GPS systems, cart fleets, and facility maintenance, raising the stakes for finding and developing qualified candidates. Apprenticeship programs and pulling talent from existing maintenance crews are among the most practical near-term solutions for building a new generation of equipment managers. 64% of equipment managers say they would stay in golf even if better-paying opportunities existed outside the industry — a silver lining that depends on clubs stepping up. Links and Resources: Pat Jones —linkedin.com/in/pat-jones-226766b0 Pat Jones — Flagstick LLC: patjonesflagstick.com Mike Rollins — LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mike-rollins-9b34a3114 Mike Rollins on X: x.com/MikeRollinsSIP Cutline is King (free PDF): sipgrinder.com/support/cutline.html The Daily Grind Series (YouTube): Bloom Golf Partners Employment Trends Research: bloomgolfpartners.com/research-2
Summary OUR 100TH EPISODE! In this exciting, milestone episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler Bloom and Meredith Otero sit down with Jeff Morgan, CEO of the Club Management Association of America (CMAA), to explore what the future holds for private club leadership, workforce development, and the role of technology in transforming the club experience. Jeff shares how his background in finance and technology led him to association management and ultimately to the helm of CMAA, one of the most influential organizations in the private club industry. From building a more diverse leadership pipeline to tackling governance challenges and embracing AI, this conversation covers the full landscape of where clubs are headed and how the professionals inside them are rising to meet the moment. Whether you are a superintendent eyeing a path to club leadership, a GM navigating a shifting membership, or a club professional curious about the forces shaping the industry, this episode delivers real insight from someone who has dedicated over a decade to advancing the profession. What You'll Learn in this Episode: CMAA has grown dramatically since COVID, with nearly half its current membership joining post-pandemic, signaling a surge in interest and investment in professional club management. The pathway to becoming a general manager has opened significantly, welcoming superintendents, chefs, CFOs, and wellness professionals into senior club leadership roles. Jeff outlines what good club governance looks like: a true partnership between the board and staff team, with boards focused on financial stewardship and strategic vision rather than day-to-day operations. Women now represent roughly a third of CMAA's membership, and for the first time in the association's history, four women currently serve on its national board of 13. AI and autonomous technology will not replace human connection at clubs but will free up professionals to focus on high-touch member experiences and more meaningful work. CMAA is approaching its 100th anniversary with a new member needs analysis that will shape its next strategic plan, designed to serve an evolving and growing profession for the next century. The integration of amenities, golf, fitness, food, wellness, and social programming, is what creates the kind of stickiness that keeps members engaged and clubs financially healthy. Links and Resources Jeff Morgan – LinkedIn Profile Club Management Association of America (CMAA) – cmaa.org BOOK A STRATEGY CALL
BOOK A STRATEGY CALL In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Paul Hurst, founder of Greens Pro and one of the golf industry's most recognizable voices in independent distribution. Paul shares his unlikely path from aspiring lawyer to university golf course assistant, and how that foundation shaped his passion for the sales and distribution side of the turf industry. Known for his sharp humor and unfiltered takes on X (formerly Twitter), Paul opens up about why he started creating content, what it really takes to build genuine partnerships with superintendents, and why the price-first approach kills relationships before they start. We also dig into one of the industry's most pressing challenges: the growing divide between well-funded clubs and the rest of the market, and what that means for recruiting, training, and long-term sustainability in golf course operations. Plus, Paul doesn't hold back on the PGA Tour's use of vendor volunteers, the culture conversation nobody wants to have honestly, and what separates truly great golf operations from average ones. If you're in turf, sales, or anywhere in the golf industry ecosystem, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. What You'll Learn in this Episode: How Paul went from a seven-year college journey to building Greens Pro into a respected independent distributor in the Midwest. Why leading with price is the fastest way to get ignored by a superintendent and what actually builds lasting vendor relationships. The growing talent and workforce crisis in golf, and why smaller facilities are getting squeezed out of the recruiting pipeline. What separates great golf course operations from average ones: it's not budget, it's presentation, detail, and a tight-knit staff. Paul's candid take on PGA Tour volunteer expectations for vendors and why he believes the model is fundamentally flawed. How a COVID-era music side hustle on Twitter helped Paul build a community, grow his business, and create content that resonates across the industry. Why culture is more than mission statements, and what real team culture actually looks like on the ground. Links and Resources Paul Hurst on X (Twitter): @GreensPro Greens Pro: greensproturf.com Bloom Golf Partners: bloomgolfpartners.com
In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Danny Gwyn, Vice President of Golf Course Maintenance at Concert Golf Partners, one of the top owner-operator golf companies in the country. Danny brings over 40 years of experience in the industry, from pulling goosegrass out of greens at 14 to overseeing agronomic operations across Concert's 40+, and growing, private clubs in the United States. He shares hard-won lessons on leadership, labor, member communication, and what it truly means to run a golf course like a business. Whether you're a superintendent, an aspiring regional director, or a club leader looking to sharpen your edge, this conversation delivers the kind of no-nonsense insight that only comes from decades in the field. What You'll Learn in this Episode: Why Concert Golf Partners operates as an owner-operator rather than a management company, and why that distinction matters for superintendents and clubs alike. How Danny transitioned from single-course superintendent to overseeing multiple properties and what the biggest mindset shifts were. The importance of removing ego from member interactions and why listening is one of the most underrated leadership skills in turf management. What trends Danny is watching closely: labor market resets, deferred maintenance, and the undervalued assistant superintendent pipeline. How Concert is investing in staff development through internal promotion incentives and tuition support for crew members pursuing agronomy education. Why clubs often overestimate their market position and how realistic self-assessment leads to smarter decisions. The simple, visible communication tactics that build member trust without a single email. What autonomy really looks like across a 40+ club portfolio and why Concert refuses to cookie-cutter its operations. Links and Resources Danny Gwyn – Concert Golf Partners Leadership Page: https://www.concertgolfpartners.com/leadership Concert Golf Partners: https://www.concertgolfpartners.com Bloom Golf Partners: https://bloomgolfpartners.com Book a Call with Tyler: https://calendly.com/marym-bloomgolfpartners/executive-search-recruitment-services
BOOK A STRATEGY CALL Summary In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with John Ballard, a 27-year golf industry veteran and former Superintendent at Valhalla Golf Club, to talk about one of the most underexplored topics in the turf profession: what happens when you decide to walk away from a top-100 club and start over. John shares his remarkable career story, from landing his first superintendent role at just 22 years old at Audubon Country Club, to managing cool-season transitions at the University of Louisville, to leading the grounds operation at Valhalla through COVID, a historic Zoysia renovation, and the 2024 PGA Championship. But what makes this episode truly special is what came after Valhalla: his candid reflection on identity, career transitions, and his move into a new role as Key Account Manager at Simplot Turf and Horticulture. Whether you're a superintendent eyeing your next move, an assistant trying to build your network, or someone navigating a career crossroads, this episode is packed with perspective you can act on today. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How John climbed from assistant to superintendent at 22 and the mentality that carried him through every step of his career. Why he believes your network is the single most powerful tool in landing your next opportunity, and how he has intentionally built it over 27 years. What it was really like to navigate Valhalla through COVID, staffing shortages, and a complete fairway and tee renovation, and why patience in building the right team made all the difference. The importance of engaging assistants and AITs in leadership decisions, green committee exposure, and member interactions, and why more superintendents should be doing this. What the job search actually looks like when you leave a high-profile role: the nerves, the strategy, and the mindset shifts required to stay focused. How John is discovering an entirely new side of the turf industry through his role at Simplot, and why superintendents may be limiting themselves by thinking there's only one path. The honest conversation about professional identity: what happens when your job title is how others define you, and why separating the two matters. Links & Resources John Ballard: john.ballard@simplot.com | Twitter/X: @jballard1 Simplot Turf & Horticulture Bloom Golf Partners GCSAA Member Directory
BOOK A STRATEGY CALL In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with Aaron Dawson, founder of Viewpoint EQ and a 20-year hospitality and private club veteran, for a candid conversation about self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and what it truly takes to lead at the highest levels of the golf and club industry. Aaron shares his transformative journey with the Birkman Method a powerful personality and behavioral assessment and how it changed not only how he leads, but how he listens, communicates, and builds psychologically safe teams. From lessons learned at Carmel Country Club to the universal blind spots holding club leaders back, this episode is a masterclass in intentional leadership. Whether you're a superintendent, director of agronomy, general manager, or aspiring leader, this conversation will challenge you to look inward and elevate how you show up for your team every day. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How the Birkman Method unlocks hidden behavioral needs that other personality assessments miss and why self-awareness is the most critical leadership skill in private clubs today. Why the "Golden Rule" fails 70% of the time, and what to do instead when communicating with your team, members, and board. The concept of psychological safety and how Aaron helped cultivate it at Carmel Country Club to create a high-performing, candid, and aligned culture. How alignment (not talent) is the #1 blind spot in private clubs, boards, and leadership teams and the questions you must ask before accepting your next role. Why asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness and how top leaders like Jeff Bezos do only what only they can do. Practical advice for directors of agronomy on managing up, handling member feedback, and building trust before the pressure of summer season hits. What general managers and club leaders actually look for in director-level hires and the red flags that disqualify otherwise talented candidates. How stress indicators and personality traits (like Aaron's "high insistence, low restlessness") show up in leadership and how to proactively manage them. Tyler Bloom's personal leadership evolution: from operator to CEO, delegating identity, and building a team that carries pride on the trade show floor. Links & Resources: Aaron Dawson – Viewpoint EQ: viewpointeq.com Email Aaron: aaron@viewpointeq.com Call Aaron: 979-436-3851 Aaron Dawson – LinkedIn Profile: Connect on LinkedIn Bloom Golf Partners: bloomgolfpartners.com CMAA (Club Management Association of America): cmaa.org
In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler Bloom is joined by team members Meredith Otero and Mary Maloney for a candid, behind-the-scenes debrief of their first-ever attendance at the CMAA World Conference & Club Business Expo. From the trade show floor to a standing-room-only presentation on championship culture, the Bloom Golf Partners team unpacks the energy, connections, and key lessons from one of the most intimate and impactful industry conferences in the golf and private club world. If you work in club management, agronomy, or any department striving to bridge the gap between leadership and operations, this episode is a must-listen. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The CMAA conference stands out for its intimate, personalized feel — a stark contrast to the PGA Show and GCSAA, with a stronger focus on software, products, and leadership education. Why cross-departmental attendance at industry trade shows builds visibility, credibility, and stronger club relationships — superintendents at CMAA, GMs at GCSAA. The Bloom Golf Partners team presented on Building a Championship Culture to a standing-room-only crowd of general managers and club decision-makers. Common challenges in club culture: retaining long-tenured employees resistant to change, siloed agronomy departments, and the universal struggle of filling equipment manager roles. Why should superintendents see themselves as strategic partners — not just operational leads — and how showing up at cross-industry events elevates the entire profession. The power of spending unstructured time with your own team at conferences strips away layers and builds real relationships that translate back to the workplace. Professional photography and visual identity are low-hanging fruit for both individuals and clubs — a shoutout to Karlo for elevating the Bloom Golf Partners brand. Early planning matters: the team is already preparing presentation proposals for the next conference season before this one is fully wrapped. Notable Moments & Takeaways: Shoutout to Bobby Davis, now General Manager at Oakmont Country Club and former assistant superintendent — a testament to the career paths available across the industry. The CMAA "Idea Fair" showcased best practices from clubs in areas like member engagement, recruiting, and programming — a concept the team would love to see replicated at GCSAA. "The equipment manager is the hardest position to fill in the industry" a line that drew zero pushback from an entire room of club managers. The talent pipeline challenge is real: universities, career services on the trade show floor, and new services supporting career changers are all part of the solution. A key insight from the culture presentation: employees often want ownership and recognition — not just paycheck. Listening without an agenda goes a long way. Links & Resources: Bloom Golf Partners Website: https://bloomgolfpartners.com Bloom Golf Partners YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bloomgolfpartners CMAA World Conference & Club Business Expo: https://www.cmaa.org/conference/ Karlo Gesner (Visual & Photography Services): Reach out via Bloom Golf Partners for a connection Tyler Bloom – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerbloom/ Connect with Bloom Golf Partners: Have a topic you'd like us to cover at a future conference, regional event, or on the podcast? Drop a comment or reach out directly — the team wants to hear what matters most to you in your facility and career. 🌱 Website: bloomgolfpartners.com 📹 YouTube: @bloomgolfpartners 💼 LinkedIn: Bloom Golf Partners
Summary Book a Strategy Call In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with two powerhouse voices from The Oaks Club: Holly Farrell, General Manager, and Brian D'Agostino, Greens Committee Chair, for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what it truly takes to build a successful relationship between a golf course superintendent and the people they serve. From communication strategies to budget battles, hiring instincts to managing member expectations, this conversation is packed with real-world insight that every turf professional and club leader needs to hear. Holly brings 13 years of experience at The Oaks Club and a clear vision for what modern agronomy leadership looks like. Brian brings a rare dual perspective with 16 years on the board and greens committee at Ivanhoe Club in Chicago, and now leading a newly restructured Greens Committee at The Oaks. Together, they paint a vivid picture of what clubs are really looking for and what separates a good superintendent from a great one. What You'll Learn: Transparency and consistent communication are the foundation for trust between superintendents and their members, committees, and boards. Proactive communication — especially when things go sideways — prevents rumors and builds credibility faster than any technical achievement. The superintendent role has evolved into an executive-level position requiring strategic thinking, financial fluency, team leadership, and member-facing communication skills. Greens Committees serve as a critical conduit between the agronomy staff and the broader membership — and building that relationship is a strategic advantage for any superintendent. Setting realistic expectations tied to budget is the key to avoiding the single biggest gap at most clubs: resources not matching member expectations. In hiring, the differentiators aren't technical — they're trust, authenticity, clear communication, and the ability to connect with people at any level of expertise. Data-driven decision-making and capital planning are becoming non-negotiable expectations for top agronomy leaders. Team development and the ability to grow staff from within are long-term multipliers that great superintendents prioritize. Links & Resources: Holly Farrell – The Oaks Club, General Manager | [LinkedIn Profile] Brian D'Agostino – The Oaks Club, Greens Committee Chair | [LinkedIn Profile] The Oaks Club – [Website] Bloom Golf Partners – bloomgolfpartners.com
Summary Book a Strategy Call In this episode of Leadership on the Links, we sit down with two seasoned golf industry veterans — Bill Langley, retired General Manager & CEO of the Club at Quail Ridge, and Clark Jones, longtime Greens Chairman at The Country Club in Pepper Pike, Ohio and Gulfstream Golf Club — to explore what it truly takes to build a high-performing club from the inside out. Hosted by Tyler Bloom of Bloom Golf Partners, this conversation dives deep into the critical relationships that make or break a club's success: GM-superintendent dynamics, greens committee communication, member expectations, and the hiring practices shaping the next generation of golf course leaders. Whether you're a superintendent, club manager, Greens Chair, or aspiring industry professional, this episode is packed with hard-won wisdom you won't find in a textbook. What You'll Learn: The GM-Superintendent Relationship: Why mutual respect and open communication are the foundation of any successful club — and how to build that relationship even when leadership isn't proactive about it. The Role of the Head Golf Professional: How the golf pro acts as the "bank teller" of the club — hearing member feedback first — and why looping them into agronomic decisions is a game-changer. Greens Committee Best Practices: What makes a greens committee effective, how to involve diverse member voices (high and low handicappers, male and female), and why a mission statement can serve as your anchor when things get turbulent. Setting Realistic Member Expectations: How to communicate challenges outside the superintendent's control — like weather — and why having a communication infrastructure in place makes those tough conversations easier. Budgeting & Capital Projects: How GMs and Greens Chairs evaluate capital improvement requests, why a well-built business case matters, and how to frame a conversation around ROI rather than just agronomic necessity. Hiring for Cultural Fit: What hiring committees are really looking for beyond technical skills — leadership, emotional intelligence, attention to detail, and workplace culture. The Power of a Portfolio: Why a well-crafted interview portfolio can differentiate you from a sea of similar resumes, what to include (before/after photos, behavioral reports, SOP examples), and how to strategically deploy it throughout the process. Title Inflation in the Industry: A candid conversation about the rise of "Director of Agronomy" titles and what committees actually look for beyond the label. Book Recommendations: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara and Sea Stories by Admiral William McRaven — two reads that connect service, leadership, and attention to detail in ways that translate directly to club management. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Introductions 02:00 – The GM-Superintendent relationship: lessons from 40 years in the club business 05:50 – How superintendents can proactively build relationships with their GM 07:30 – Greens committee communication and the "left hand / right hand" problem 10:00 – Creating a club mission statement to anchor tough conversations 13:00 – Managing member expectations and handling weather challenges 20:00 – The superintendent-golf pro relationship: why it may be the most important one at the club 28:00 – How greens committees effectively evaluate capital budgets and equipment requests 40:00 – What hiring committees really want: leadership, culture, and attention to detail 54:00 – Navigating Director of Agronomy vs. Superintendent title distinctions 01:03:00 – Interview portfolios: what works, what doesn't, and how to stand out 01:07:00 – Favorite leadership & hospitality book recommendations 01:09:00 – Closing thoughts and takeaways 🔗 Links & Resources: Bill Langley – Linkedin Profile Clark Jones – LinkedIn Profile Tyler Bloom – LinkedIn Profile Bloom Golf Partners – bloomgolfpartners.com Bloom Golf Partners YouTube – @bloomgolfpartners 📖 Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara 📖 Sea Stories by Admiral William McRaven Qualipro / QP2U Webinar Series – qualipro.com
Summary Book a Strategy Call In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Meredith Otero and Mitch Rupert dive into a candid recap of the GCSAA 2026 Conference and Trade Show in Orlando. Fresh off the heels of an incredible week, they reflect on the exponential growth Bloom Golf Partners has experienced over the past 12 months and how it transformed every conversation on the trade show floor. From sold-out education sessions to meaningful booth visits, Meredith and Mitch discuss what made this year feel so different—intentional connections, industry recognition, and the pride of watching their team shine. They also touch on workforce trends, the critical need for equipment managers, and the power of developing talent from within. What You'll Learn Why intentional networking and consistent marketing efforts lead to more meaningful conference conversations How Bloom Golf Partners' growth over 12 months shifted booth visits from "What do you guys do?" to purposeful engagement The current workforce crisis facing equipment managers and why this trade skill offers incredible career potential Why developing talent from within—whether from your own staff or the local community—is key to solving hiring challenges How team balance and individual strengths create a winning dynamic at industry events The importance of stepping outside your comfort zone for speaking engagements and professional growth Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and post-conference exhaustion 00:42 – Overview of the GCSAA 2026 Conference and Trade Show 01:06 – Team photos, Disney fun, and the famous Sunday sundae 02:48 – Mitch's comparison: What felt different from last year 04:55 – Nonstop booth traffic and meaningful conversations 05:28 – Meredith's takeaway: Intentional visits and genuine connections 07:52 – Feeling rejuvenated, not drained, after a full week 09:23 – Mitch's sold-out education session and key takeaways 11:24 – The equipment manager workforce crisis and aging out of the profession 12:43 – Career potential in trade skills and equipment management 14:51 – Mary's speaking debut and overcoming presentation nerves 16:19 – Mitch's first speaking engagement at Union League and lessons learned 17:56 – Meredith's upcoming speaking opportunity at Club Managers 18:38 – Team dynamics, balance, and playing to individual strengths 1 9:21 – Plans for future events and getting the whole team together Links Mentioned Bloom Golf Partners Website: https://www.bloomgolfpartners.com GCSAA Conference & Trade Show: https://www.gcsaa.org Club Managers Association of America (CMAA): https://www.cmaa.org
Book a Strategy Call Summary In this episode of Leadership on the Links, Tyler Bloom is joined by Ken Mangum, longtime golf course superintendent and respected industry consultant, to discuss leadership, course standards, workforce development, and the evolving expectations within golf operations. Ken reflects on lessons from his decades of experience, including building long-term leadership teams, managing championship-level expectations, and creating workplace cultures that attract and retain talent. The conversation explores how clear maintenance standards reduce operational "noise," why superintendents benefit professionally from playing golf, and how relationship-building with committees and members strengthens long-term success. Ken also shares perspectives on staffing challenges, developing talent from within, emerging turfgrass innovations like Zoysia, and the future of workforce recruitment in golf. The episode concludes with practical hiring advice, including preparation for Zoom interviews and how professionals can better present themselves during job searches. What You'll Learn • Why establishing maintenance standards creates consistency and minimizes operational conflict • How leadership, communication, and culture shape long-term success in golf operations • Why employee care and appreciation lead to stronger retention and recruitment • How playing golf improves professional relationships and operational understanding • The benefits and growing adoption of Zoysia grass for playability and maintenance efficiency • Practical hiring advice, including how to prepare for modern Zoom interviews Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and Ken Mangum career journey in golf course management 05:30 – Managing championship expectations and reducing operational noise 09:30 – Leadership, committees, and relationship management 12:00 – Workforce challenges and staffing evolution in golf 14:00 – Employee retention and culture-building strategies 18:30 – Full-time staffing versus seasonal workforce models 22:30 – Why superintendents benefit from playing golf 28:30 – Using golf to build credibility and member relationships 32:30 – Recruiting challenges and developing talent within the industry 40:20 – Zoysia grass adoption and maintenance advantages 49:30 – Hiring advice and preparing for interviews 59:30 – Why Zoom interviews now play a critical role in hiring decisions Links Mentioned Bloom Golf Partners Website: https://www.bloomgolfpartners.com GCSAA Conference & Show: https://www.gcsaa.org Syngenta Turf Solutions: https://www.syngenta-us.com/turf Dream Golf Developments: https://dreamgolf.com
