Golf Club Talk UK

In this episode, we bring together four leading voices from across the golf and environmental landscape to cut through the noise around water use and sustainability and focus on the facts. We're joined by Tom Brooke, CEO of GCMA, Richard Windows from The R&A, Tom Young from The Environment Partnership (TEP), and Daniel Scarr from Rain Bird to explore why water has become one of the most critical issues facing golf clubs today, and why doing nothing is no longer an option. With so much information circulating, the discussion begins by grounding the debate in reality and an outline of where we are right now.  This looks at the current pressures on water resources, the increasing scrutiny on abstraction and usage, and how climate patterns are already affecting golf courses across GB&I. The panel then looks ahead, with the panel painting a clear picture of where the industry could be in ten years' time if meaningful action isn't taken, from tighter regulation to rising costs and reduced resilience. The conversation turns to practical action, starting with what clubs can do immediately. Daniel Scarr shares simple, low-cost steps that clubs can take now to reduce water consumption, focusing on smarter irrigation practices, better system management, and making small changes that quickly add up. From there, the panel expands into longer-term measures, discussing investment in infrastructure, data-led decision making, agronomic and course design considerations, and how sustainability can be built into long-term planning rather than treated as a reactive fix. With wetter winters and heavier rainfall falling in shorter, more intense periods, we examine how golf courses can adapt to cope more effectively, improving drainage, capturing and storing water, and building resilience into course management strategies. The episode also highlights the collective work being done across the industry. Tom Brooke explains how organisations such as the GB&I Golf Forum and the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf (APPGG) are working together to represent the sport, influence policy, and drive coordinated action on sustainability and water management. The message that runs throughout the discussion is clear: clubs don't need to have all the answers today, but they do need to start. The panel closes by encouraging clubs to take action now, however small the steps may seem, because early progress, informed decisions, and a willingness to engage will be critical to safeguarding the future of the game. www.gcma.org.uk https://www.randa.org/sustainable-golf https://www.tep.uk.com/ https://www.rainbird.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this unique two-part episode, we delve into elite performance at England Golf, covering girls, women, boys and men's national squads and exploring what it truly takes to succeed at the highest level of the sport. Leighton spends two days on the ground at the National Golf Centre, gaining a real feel for the work that goes into driving success at national level. The episode not only highlights the structure behind the programme but also offers valuable insight and perspective directly from the players experiencing it first-hand. We begin this second part with an in-depth conversation with Jenny Henderson and Ben Gorvett, Performance Managers working across the girls', women's, boys' and men's squads. Jenny and Ben offer a clear perspective on how the performance programme is structured and how they support players at different stages of their development. They discuss the balance between long-term athlete development and short-term performance, how individual player plans are built, and the importance of aligning coaching, physical preparation, psychology and competition scheduling to help players perform at their best. Next, we hear from Tyler Weaver, speaking to us from Tallahassee, Florida, where he is currently studying at Florida State University while also representing the men's squad. Tyler shares his experience of combining university golf in the United States with international performance expectations, and reflects on the challenges and opportunities that come with that environment. A standout moment in his journey so far was competing in the 2025 US Open at Oakmont, and Tyler gives insight into what that experience was like and what he took away from competing on one of golf's biggest stages. We then catch up with Nick Soto, England Golf Putting Coach, who explains his role within the programme and the impact of having access to world-class facilities. Nick talks through how he works with players to develop their putting skills and the importance of measurement, feedback and how psychology and small performance gains on the greens can translate into meaningful results in competition. To close the episode, we speak with Annabel Peaford and Charlotte Naughton from the women's squad. Both are highly talented prospects who have progressed through the England Golf pathway, and they share their experiences of life within the programme. Annabel and Charlotte reflect on their development so far, the support around them, and their ambitions for the future as they continue to push towards the next level of the game. This episode offers a rounded look at performance golf—from those designing and delivering the programme, to the players living it day to day—and highlights the depth of talent and expertise within England Golf. Special thanks to Nigel Edwards, Performance Director at England Golf, for making this access possible. https://www.englandgolf.org/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner: Toro - Click here for more information The Revenue Club - Click here for more information https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

It's a great episode this week as Eddie and Leighton kick things off with a catch-up before diving into the featured interview. They are joined by DJ Flanders, Executive Vice President of Troon Golf, for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation that revisits a standout presentation DJ delivered at the GCAE Conference in Madeira last November. That presentation explored one of the biggest challenges facing golf today: the four generations now sharing our golf venues. The conversation looks closely at Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, exploring the typical traits, preferences, and expectations of each group. Eddie, Leighton, and DJ discuss what each generation values most from the golf and hospitality experience, what makes them feel welcomed and satisfied, and where venues risk losing them if expectations aren't met. A central theme of the discussion is the big challenge facing operators today: how do golf venues successfully appeal to all four generations at the same time? DJ shares practical insight into how different generations can co-exist within the same venues, how expectations can be balanced, and why understanding generational mindset is now essential for the long-term success of golf. It's a thoughtful, practical, and engaging conversation with plenty of takeaways for anyone involved in golf operations, hospitality, or leadership. You can find out more about Troon Golf at https://www.troongolf.com and connect with DJ Flanders on LinkedIn.   A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information The Revenue Club - Click here for more information https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this Toro Partnership episode, we open with James Howard, General Manager, and James Cleaver, Course Manager, of Stratford Oaks Golf Club. They are joined by David Timms and Josh Nash of Reesink, with the discussion centred on Stratford Oaks' recent major addition of Toro machinery to their fleet. The conversation explores how a club approaches the decision-making process around a fleet purchase, from identifying the specific needs of the club to evaluating long-term value and performance. The group also discusses the importance of distributor support, including equipment demonstrations and ongoing service, and how these factors help clubs find the right solutions to present their course in the best possible condition. Leighton and James Brockington are then joined by the ever-insightful David Roy of Crail Golfing Society. With more than 20 years at the helm, David has overseen a period of significant progress at one of the world's oldest golf clubs. During his tenure, Crail has evolved through major changes in board structure, governance, and club culture, emerging in a strong and sustainable position. In this episode, we explore how David has managed this evolution while continuing to perform at the top of his game. He shares the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships, staying grounded, and cultivating interests outside of work. Those interests include a lifelong love of amateur dramatics, which has played an unexpected but valuable role in his leadership journey. David also reflects on how steady leadership, clear decision-making, and a willingness to modernise have helped deliver healthy membership numbers, strong visitor revenue, and a more inclusive, contemporary club environment. The conversation even touches on Crail's refreshingly progressive approach to dress code policy, proving that tradition and modern thinking can successfully coexist. Beyond Crail, David has also played a significant role in the success of the CMAE, contributing his time, experience, and leadership over a long period to help support and develop club management professionals across the industry. A thoughtful and wide-ranging discussion on leadership, decision-making, balance, and the future of golf clubs. https://crailgolfingsociety.co.uk/   A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information The Revenue Club - Click here for more information https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Stephen Smith is a neuroscientist and one of only six professionals worldwide fully registered as both a sport psychologist and a business psychologist. Through his company, Sports Psychology, Stephen works with clubs to improve performance and commercial success by better understanding customer behaviour—what members and guests need, what makes them feel comfortable, and what keeps them coming back. Stephen recently presented this subject at the GCAE Conference in Madeira, and we were keen to have him on the show to explore these ideas in greater depth. In this episode, we dive into how highly successful businesses—particularly those outside the golf industry—design their spaces to maximise engagement, satisfaction, and loyalty. Stephen explains how these same principles can be applied within golf facilities by creating the right environments and surroundings. This conversation takes us into new territory and offers a fresh perspective on how psychology, neuroscience, and design can directly impact the success of golf clubs.   A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information The Revenue Club - Click here for more information https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this unique two-part episode, we delve into elite performance at England Golf, covering girls, women, boys and men's national squads and exploring what it truly takes to succeed at the highest level of the sport. Leighton spends two days on the ground at the National Golf Centre, gaining a real feel for the work that goes into driving success at national level. The episode not only highlights the structure behind the programme but also offers valuable insight and perspective directly from the players experiencing it first-hand. Hosted by Jenny Henderson, Performance Manager for Female Golf, Leighton is guided through the training camps and world-class facilities that underpin the programme, with a clear overview of how athletes are developed and supported over time. The episode also features expert contributions from Amy O'Donnell, the England Golf Nutritionist, and Dan Coughlan, Strength and Conditioning Coach, who explain the many components that come together to support elite performance.  They also bring experience from professional tours. We then hear from two members of the girls' national squad, Ellie Lichtenhein and Lauren Crump, who share their experiences at the training camps, reflect on their personal progress, and discuss how the environment is helping them develop as players. Special thanks to Nigel Edwards, Performance Director at England Golf, for making this access possible. If you want a genuine, behind-the-scenes overview of what happens at elite-level sport, this is an episode not to be missed. In part two we'll get an overview from the Performance Managers of men's and women's golf, Putting coach and hear from two of the women's squad and one of the men's squad. https://www.englandgolf.org/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Panel Discussion Episode 2 of 3  Guests: Darren Redwood – Your Golf Marketing James Brockington – General Manager, Henley Golf Club & GCTUK Alastair Sinclair – Play More Golf Sarah-Jane (SJ) Shepherd – 59 Club Tony Adams – Hospitality in Golf In the second episode of our three-part series, we take a deep dive into your club's brand and image. How is your club really perceived, and what are clubs doing to present themselves in the best possible light? Joined by an expert panel with deep experience across golf operations, marketing, membership, service delivery, and hospitality, we explore what brand truly means in the context of golf clubs and how it shows up at every touchpoint. What does brand mean in the context of golf clubs How do you define your club's style of delivery and service, and what role does service play How can clubs become more authentic in their messaging and member experience How important are physical spaces such as the clubhouse, course, and practice facilities in defining your brand What role does social media play in projecting your club's image and story This wide-ranging discussion brings together a panel ideally placed to advise and guide clubs on one of the most important, and often misunderstood, elements of long-term success.   Please support the panelists: https://www.yourgolfmarketing.co.uk/ https://www.playmore.golf/ https://www.59clubuk.com/ https://www.hospitalityingolf.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

We're delighted to welcome The Revenue Club as our newest partner on GCTUK. In this episode, we take a deep dive into how The Revenue Club supports golf clubs in maximising their online revenue through a combination of dynamic pricing, digital marketing, and insightful performance reporting. Founders Rob Corcoran and Chris Knight join us to discuss why online sales have become increasingly critical for golf clubs, and how better use of data can help clubs shape a stronger and more profitable visitor strategy. We explore what dynamic pricing really means in a golf club context, how it can be implemented effectively, and the common challenges clubs face when moving away from traditional pricing models. The conversation also covers how golf clubs can make better use of their online marketing channels to drive demand, convert bookings, and build long-term value, as well as the evolving trends we're seeing in online bookings and consumer behaviour. Finally, Rob and Chris share insights on what comes next once clubs feel they've "cracked the basics" and are ready to take their online revenue strategy to the next level. We look forward to future discussions with Rob, Chris, and the wider team at The Revenue Club as we continue working together to help clubs maximise their online revenue. https://www.therevenueclub.co.uk/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this episode, we recap both 2025 so far and the Golf Club Management Conference & Exhibition held in November. First, we're joined by the GCMA team — Tom Brooke, Gareth Morgan, Darren Wood, and Natalie McColl — as we explore the key areas of the association. They highlight recent successes and provide an update on the value GCMA membership offers. The conversation covers professional development, partnerships, membership benefits, and new initiatives designed to support golf club managers. We're then joined by Lisa Harrop of Marton Meadows Golf Club and Rhys Morgan of Newport Golf Club to reflect on the conference itself. Both were finalists in the awards, with Lisa and the team at Marton Meadows proudly taking home the Team of the Year award. They share their highlights, favourite moments, and key takeaways from the event. Even if you couldn't attend the conference — or if you're not currently a GCMA member — this episode is well worth a listen. www.gcma.org.uk   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Episode Description Brought to you by Toro In this episode, we head to the striking Island of Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal located off the northwest coast of Africa. While Madeira isn't traditionally thought of as a golf destination, it carries nearly 100 years of golfing history and features three courses across two islands—Palheiro, Santo da Serra, and Porto Santo. The islands have also played host to the Madeira Open on the European Tour for many years. And with a fourth course under construction at Ponta do Pargo, Madeira's golf future looks brighter than ever. (Stay tuned for an upcoming episode on that spectacular project.) This episode focuses on "Golf in Madeira"—both the golf experience itself and the company of the same name. Our first guest, Andre Rodriguez, owner of Golf in Madeira, shares insights into: The unique character of golf on the island What makes each course distinct Why Madeira offers much more than a stand-alone golf holiday Beyond golf, Andre highlights Madeira's incredible range of activities, including whale and dolphin watching, surfing, hiking, mountain biking, and more. We're then joined by Henrique Duarte of Irrimac, the Toro distributor for the region, and Ricardo Abreu, CEO of Santo da Serra. They take us through the story of Santo da Serra's history and the extraordinary challenge they faced when trying to create an irrigation solution for the course—and the surrounding community—when it was believed no workable solution existed. Together with Toro, they found one. If you're searching for an exciting, evolving, and authentic golf destination, Madeira deserves a spot on your map.   https://www.golfinmadeira.com/ https://www.palheironatureestate.com/palheiro-golf.html https://santodaserragolf.com/ https://portosantogolfe.com/   A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro Check them out here!   https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Sign up to our Newsletter here

As 2025 closes out and 2026 approaches, Leighton, James and Eddie sit down for a reflective year-end conversation. The trio shares personal takeaways from 2025, highlights the GCTUK episode that resonated most, and looks ahead to what trends might shape the golf industry—both in the UK and globally—as we move into 2026 and beyond. It's an easy, insightful, and genuinely enjoyable discussion. The episode then shifts as Eddie interviews Geoff Swain. Geoff, a former World Trick Shot Champion, has built a global career as an entertainer through his trick-shot shows, clinics, presenting, and corporate appearances. Geoff's story is both inspiring and candid—he talks openly about the significant health challenges he has faced, how he pushed through them, and how he continues to deliver world-class entertainment. A great conversation with a great storyteller. https://www.geoffswaingolfunplugged.com/ Favourite episodes mentioned in our review: Rob Climas - 128 Tony Adams - 124 Joe Kelly - 123 Andy Brown - 121 PGA of Canada - 129 Inclusivity in Golf - 117   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Panel Discussion Episode 1 of 3  Guests: Darren Redwood – Your Golf Marketing James Brockington – General Manager, Henley Golf Club & GCTUK Alastair Sinclair – Play More Golf Sarah-Jane (SJ) Shepherd – 59 Club Tony Adams – Hospitality in Golf In this first episode of our three-part series, we take a deep dive into the culture of golf—both at the club level and across the wider sport and industry. Together with an expert panel immersed in golf operations, marketing, membership, service delivery, and hospitality, we explore: Where the culture of golf currently stands What the sport does well What needs to evolve to meet modern expectations How clubs can build environments that fit a range of demographics, age groups, and golfing ethos Why getting the offer, service, arrival experience, and welcome right is more important than ever Part of the conversation focuses on inclusivity, especially within the women's game. We discuss the opportunities the industry is missing, the size of this underserved market, and what meaningful improvements could look like. This is a fascinating, insightful discussion with people who shape the game and live club life every day. A must-listen for anyone invested in the future of golf. Please support the panelists: https://www.yourgolfmarketing.co.uk/ https://www.playmore.golf/ https://www.59clubuk.com/ https://www.hospitalityingolf.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this episode, we dive into one of the standout industry events of the year: the GCAE Conference in Madeira (9-12 November). We're joined by Renate Roeleveld, CEO and organiser of this exceptional gathering, to explore event highlights and unpack some of the biggest themes shaping the future of the game. From mindset and psychology, to technology, evolving business models, driving ranges, and the ever-relevant discussion of AI vs. humans, Renate shares valuable insights into how the industry is adapting and driving change. To round out the episode, we feature three conversations recorded on-site, with key presenters from the conference: Jay Karen – CEO of the NGCOA Bartel Berkhout – CEO & Founder of SportsInq Monique Landman – Chief Empathy Officer at Unchain Each guest brings thoughtful, practical takeaways from their sessions—ideal for anyone looking to better understand where the industry is headed. Whether you attended the conference or missed it this year, this episode is packed with perspectives you won't want to miss. https://gcae.eu/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this episode, Leighton and James kick things off by catching up and reflecting on a number of recent conferences and educational events that they've attended. We're then joined by a returning guest: Ben Laing of Branston Golf & Country Club. Ben first appeared on the podcast back in February 2021 (link to that episode below), when he shared the story of the management buyout of Branston completed in December 2019. Since then, the business has navigated a turbulent COVID period and emerged stronger than ever. Branston is now expanding and thriving, with growth coming from new ventures such as Adventure Golf, Padel, and major enhancements across the wider club. In this conversation, we dive into: How Ben maintains exceptional standards across a broad, high-headcount operation How ownership makes decisions around capital expenditure The impressive success of Adventure Golf and Padel at the club The mindset and operational approach that underpin Branston's ongoing growth Ben is truly at the top of his game as an operator, and he articulates brilliantly what drives both his own success and that of Branston Golf & Country Club. Learn more about Branston Golf & Country Club: https://www.branstonclub.co.uk/ Ben Laing episode 37 - February 2021   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

We're really lucky to be joined by Clyde Johnson of Cunnin' Golf Design. Clyde brings an extensive knowledge of golf course design and construction, built through his time working with Tom Doak at Renaissance Golf Design and, for the past decade, through his own practice. Learning from and collaborating with some of the best in the business, Clyde takes great pride in crafting natural golf courses on great sites—and in helping clubs enhance their existing layouts through thoughtful master planning. In this episode, we explore Clyde's career journey, as well as some of the courses that have shaped him—and those he's helped shape in return. These include: Tara Iti in New Zealand The Hotchkin at Woodhall Spa St Enodoc in England Old Petty at Cabot Highlands, where Clyde served as lead designer/associate This is a great conversation with one of the most insightful and talented voices in modern golf course design. https://www.taraiti.com/ https://www.woodhallspagolf.com/hotchkin_course https://www.st-enodoc.co.uk/ https://cabothighlands.com/golf/old-petty   A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro Check them out here!   https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Sign up to our Newsletter here

Every golfer remembers the view — that one hole, that perfect light, that feeling you never forget. Leighton & Eddie catch up for a monthly review, and Eddie is then joined by Graeme Baxter who has turned Golf and Golfing memories into art for over 30 years. His oil paintings have captured the most iconic scenes in golf — from the Swilcan Bridge to many Ryder Cup venues  —  " it's golf culture on canvas."  Awarded the British Empire Medal by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, World renowned Golf Artist Graeme Baxter BEM captures the beauty of golf landscapes in his Original Oil Paintings and low volume Giclee editions. Born in Scotland in1958 he discovered his love of drawing followed by his love of golf. His talents led to a long and successful career capturing and recording in his paintings, the design history of the most iconic Golf Courses around the World. His work is Internationally celebrated and displayed in the most prestigious Golf Clubs and at Touring events including The Ryder Cup, Open Championship, The Presidents Cup, PGA Tour, and European Tour. Each piece reflects his passion and history for the game adding worldwide investment value to his art.​​​​​​​ https://www.graemebaxter.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

In this episode, we're joined by Luigi Goria and Roberto Chiosa, the founders of Pin Vision — a golf technology company launched in 2022 that's changing the way golfers see the course. Pin Vision provides exact measurements to pins from anywhere using GPS technology, helping golfers make more informed decisions on every shot. Beyond that, the product also offers notifications to golfers, the ability to print pin sheets, and—coming soon—pace of play technology. We dive into Luigi and Roberto's journey from the initial idea to developing the technology and bringing it to market. With a strong presence in Italy and across Europe, Pin Vision is now expanding into the UK market. This conversation explores what it takes to start a business in golf tech, how innovation like this can enhance the golfer's experience, and how the team has grown their company from concept to reality. Entrepreneurship is often an under-discussed area of the golf industry, and it was great to chat with Luigi and Roberto about their experiences and insights. 👉 Find out more about Pin Vision here   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   https://eddiebullockgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Leighton is joined by Tom Brooke, Natalie McColl, Gareth Morgan, and Darren Wood for a final look ahead to the Golf Club Management Conference & Exhibition, taking place from 16th–18th November. With this year's theme — "Being Future Ready" — the panel explores what it means for golf clubs to stay adaptable and forward-thinking in an ever-changing industry. In this episode: Tom Brooke discusses the inspiration behind this year's theme and highlights the keynote speakers. Natalie McColl gives an insight into the social events and awards evening. Darren Wood talks about the exhibition and what attendees can expect. Gareth Morgan outlines the education programme and how it supports professional growth. Whether you're attending the conference or not, this episode is packed with valuable insights on how golf clubs can prepare for the future and embrace change with confidence. 👉 Find out more about the conference here   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk

Leighton is once again joined by golf course architect Thad Layton of Thad Layton Design to explore a recent architectural study trip. Fresh off an incredible 20+ course tour of southern England and the Midlands, Thad shares the motivations behind the trip, how he organized it, and the design lessons he's bringing back to his own work. Many architects make this journey to the UK, but the focus here was on courses of southern England—some designed by the most notable names in golf architecture, and others by architects less well known but equally influential. The conversation also explores the huge variety of golf course styles he encountered along the way, from downland and links to the classic English heathland. We then walk through a good number of the courses Thad played including a few of his favourites (this was Thad's order but we work in reverse in the interview): Sunningdale, West Hill, Berkshire, Addington, Worplesdon, Woking, Swinley Forest, Liphook, St. George's Hill, Huntercombe, Walton Heath (Old), West Sussex, Rye, Cinque Ports, Royal St. George's, North Foreland, Royal Worlington & Newmarket, Brancaster, Woodhall Spa, Hollinwell, Little Aston, Pennard, Cleeve Hill, Minchinhampton, Painswick   Here's Thad's original appearance on The Greenprint - episode 9.  Check it out! https://thadlaytondesign.com/   A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro Check them out here!   https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Sign up to our Newsletter here

In this episode, Leighton is joined by England Golf regular Matt Draper, Laura Yapp (Junior Development Manager at England Golf), and Martin Crowder (Head of Development at The Golf Foundation) to explore the Junior Journey — a collaborative initiative between England Golf and The Golf Foundation. Together, they discuss how the partnership is creating opportunities to inspire children and young people to play golf, nurturing a lifelong love for the game. The conversation delves into how clubs can: • Support juniors to start — and stay — in golf • Build strong junior sections through workforce and volunteer development • Grow the game by encouraging more young people to take that first swing From first lessons to club membership, this episode shines a light on how a united approach can create sustainable junior golf pathways across the UK.  It also includes a wider discussion on Junior Golf at venues across the country 🔗 Learn more: England Golf – Junior Journey   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partner  - Toro Click here for more information   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!