Podcasts about merion golf club

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

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.  

Paul B. Latshaw, Director of Golf Course Operations at the legendary Merion Golf Club joins me to discuss the root zone mix they used on putting surfaces during their recent renovation, and the influence his father had on him as a greenkeeper. Thanks to our sponsors! https://www.rightlineusa.com https://oceanorganics.com https://www.greenkeeperapp.com/marketing/ https://www.abovepartech.com Jams! https://music.apple.com/us/album/death-dont-have-no-mercy-live-at-the-fillmore-west/1228310072?i=1228311142 https://open.spotify.com/track/11rZZo6i4X0rzaypfo59jp?si=40bf5fdf77204269  

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to the Reel Turf Techs Podcast, Episode 125! Today, we're chatting with Robert Smith, Equipment Manager at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, PA. Merion is a private 36-hole facility with two shops and a rich history of hosting five U.S. Opens. Robert oversees a team of two full-time mechanics and one part-time assistant.Golf runs deep in Robert's family, with a father who worked as a part-time golf cart mechanic and a mother employed in the pro shop of their local course. Uniquely, Robert knew he wanted to be a golf course mechanic as a teenager and pursued a combined ag/golf program to make it his career. Outside of work, Robert enjoys quality time with his wife and two daughters, fishing, and quiet time at home.In this episode, Robert shares the challenges of training in all aspects of golf course maintenance, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individual learning styles. He offers wisdom on the value of patience and the usefulness of note-taking when diagnosing equipment issues along with insight on the internship program at his facility. Robert and Trent also bond over their admiration for outdoorsman Dick Proenneke and the fun of volunteering at tournaments. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with practical advice and shared passions. Tweet us @ReelTurfTechs and @MTrentManning Email us at ReelTurfTechs@gmail.com Check out our YouTube Channel

Matt Shaffer, past Golf Course Superintendent of Merion Golf Club joins me to discuss his "minimalist" approach to greenkeeping for the game we all adore. Thanks to our sponsors! https://www.dryject.com https://www.greenkeeperapp.com/marketing/ Email questions & inquires to: thetalkinggreenkeeper@gmail.com  

As a kid, Tom Valentine called Merion Golf Club “the family farm.” His grandfather tended the greens there for 52 years, and his father followed suit for another 27. Tom took a different approach, opting to leave the "farm" to develop newer and more efficient ways to care for courses. That's taken him across the golf world, but his heart still belongs to Merion. Dig in learn more about our playing surfaces, an encounter with Albert Einstein, and a secret modification to Merion's famed 11th green. 

As a kid, Tom Valentine called Merion Golf Club “the family farm.” His grandfather tended the greens there for 52 years, and his father followed suit for another 27. Tom took a different approach, opting to leave the "farm" to develop newer and more efficient ways to care for courses. That's taken him across the golf world, but his heart still belongs to Merion. Dig in learn more about our playing surfaces, an encounter with Albert Einstein, and a secret modification to Merion's famed 11th green. 

All Bones Considered: Laurel Hill Stories #053 - Suited to a Tee, part 2 Hugh Wilson was one of six golf architects called "The Philadelphia School".  He designed the classic Merion East Course, as well as the final four holes at Pine Valley. 

On this episode, we dive deep into the mind of Lead Golf Instructor of Merion Golf Club, Nick Iacono. We discuss what it's like to work at one of the top 10 golf courses in the country and how he got there, as well as the way that skateboarding changed made him into the person that he is today.  www.clubhouse54.golf Be sure to follow us on our socials so you don't miss the next episode! Youtube: Clubhouse 54 Instagram: @clubhouse54.golf  

We talk to Sean Palmer, Director of Golf at The Union League of Philadelphia, about how he has led the famed city club's remarkable expansion into golf over the past 8 years. We also discuss Sean's time as the senior assistant golf professional at Merion Golf Club.

Jordan Perez caught up with the top-ranked amateur ahead of the 42nd Curtis Cup at Merion Golf Club. Rose opens up about her incredible freshman year and the attention that has come with it.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's shaping up to be a busy week in the game of golf! The PGA TOUR is headed north of the border for the RBC Canadian Open, the LPGA is off to New Jersey for The SHOPRITE LPGA Classic, and Bryson DeChambeau is going to the LIV Golf Invitational Series. Damon and Eamon welcome on Rex Hoggard to break down the news and discuss what it means for the game. Paige Mackenzie joins from Merion Golf Club as well to preview the Curtis Cup, the bi-annual women's amateur team event that pits Team USA against Team GB & Ireland. In the ladies professional ranks, Kari Webb is gearing up to play in the SHOPRITE LPGA, which she won in 2013! The Australian legend comes on the show from the site of the tournament to discuss her mentorship of newly-minted U.S. Women's Open champion and fellow Aussie, Minjee Lee as well as how the Saudi influence has created a crisis of conscience in the Women's game. Kari Webb (52:20)

We talk to Scott Nye about Merion and its place in golf history, both past, present and future, as Merion has hosted more USGA championships than any other club.

Ryan Tuxhorn (@r_tuxhorn) joins Andy Johnson for the latest edition of our Superintendent Series. Ryan went straight from college to working as an intern and making his way through the ranks at Merion Golf Club. He shares how his experiences there shaped his philosophies on everything from course maintenance to green speeds, and prepared him for his job as superintendent at Somerset Hills Country Club, where he has been for the past 13 years. He and Andy discuss the restoration work at Somerset Hills, how his approach has changed over the years, and his budding maple syrup business, which keeps him busy through the long New Jersey winters. The Superintendent Series is brought to you by the Toro Company.

Listen in as David Graham, World Golf Hall of Fame member, reflects back on his memorable U.S. Open win at Merion Golf Club and one of the finest ball-striking rounds ever in a major championship. No chips and no bunker shots in a final round 67 that turned a 3-shot deficit into a 3-shot win, making him the first Aussie to prevail in this tournament. David Graham recounts his 1981 U.S. Open victory, "FORE the Good of the Game."

One of the Icons of the Turf Industry - Mr. Armen Suny talks of his time at Merion Golf Club, the state of the industry and some helpful tips on how to land that big job.

Episode 20 features Brian Palmer, Golf Course Superintendent at the new, and world famous Tara Iti Golf Club.  Brian's career started as a youngster working for his father in New York.  Stops at Merion Golf Club and Shore Acres led the way to an around the globe venture to New Zealand! Now growing fine fescues on one of the world's newest and recognized links, Brian provides unique insight into the variables, technique, and the adventure itself!

In this episode of the GCSAA Podcast, we revisit a conversation with Matt Shaffer, the longtime superintendent at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, Pa., that was originally recorded last fall. We talk about his storied career in golf course management, how the business has changed over the years and the things that are holding his attention after retirement (hint: it involves fishing).

In this episode of the GCSAA Podcast, we go inside The First Green environmental education program with Leann Cooper (3:14), GCSAA’s senior manager, chapter services, and Steve Kealy, CGCS, from Glendale Country Club in Bellevue, Wash (27:23). We also talk to Tim Kreger, the executive director of the Carolinas GCSA, about the chapter’s upcoming conference and trade show and what was a trying 2018 for superintendents in that region, and wrap up with a conversation with industry legend Matt Shaffer, who retired last year after a long career in the industry, including almost two decades as the superintendent at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, Pa (59:05).

In this episode of Frankly Speaking, Dr. Frank Rossi chats again with Jim Wagner of the Hanse Design Group, this time about his current project working with Paul B. Latshaw (again) at the East Course of Merion Golf Club, Ardmore, PA. How critical is the golf course superintendent in a renovation project? Wagner says that the ultimate success of a project can be predicted by gauging the enthusiasm level of the superintendent, and that often depends on their inclusion in early conversations and later in the decision-making processes. How can superintendents leverage the current and continuing influx of investment money into golf course renovation projects? Listen and find out. The "Howard Stern of TurfNet?" Really? Presented by Civitas/Intelligro and DryJect.

In this episode of Living Legends, presented by the Nufarm Insider, host John Reitman has a wide-ranging chat with Matt Shaffer, recently retired from Merion Golf Club, host of the 2013 U.S. Open. Matt's retrospective includes his Penn State education and mentors there... the Latshaw Connection interwoven through his career... pushing the agronomic envelope and living on the edge... the cost of obscurity and value of a pedigree... doors that exceeding expectations will open... having money and resources at your disposal, or not... learning from defeats and charging on to your next victory... how a great club membership makes a huge difference... never holding a grudge. The compensation/aggravation ratio of being a superintendent... the physical toll of hosting a Major... finding work/life balance. Spend 45 minutes with Matt Shaffer, who pulls no punches. A fascinating conversation.

As part of our ongoing Syngenta Welcomes Back Golf multi-media series, Jon Kiger chats with native Brazilian Rick Holanda about his recent stint as superintendent at SantaPaziena Golf Club in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Holanda emigrated from Brazil to the Philadelphia area in 1989 as an aspiring fashion photographer, and took a job on the crew at Merion Golf Club under Dick Bator. Rick was hooked on golf turf management, and went on to superintendent positions at Aronimink Golf Club, Chestnut Ridge CC in Maryland, Rancho La Quinta Country Club in California, and then Shadow Creek in Las Vegas. After Shadow Creek he went to Oakmont Country Club in Glendale, CA to be closer to his two daughters. The job at SouthPazienza beckoned, so he returned to Brazil for three years before coming back to the States recently to take over at Scottsdale National Golf Club.

A way to keep current on the world of sports with colorful commentary by host Paul Roberts. THE SPORTS REPORT Episode: #186 "Stanley Cup Marathon" Runtime: 36:00 (17.8 MB) DOWNLOAD (mp3) Description: The Stanley Cup finals got off to a thrilling start! Game 1 was decided in triple overtime after the Bruins and Blackhawks went at it for 112 minutes. Paul previews Game 4 of the NBA Finals and the 113th U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club. Will Tiger win a major for the first time in five years? Plus, we know Tim Tebow is with the Patriots, but how will they use him? Your browser does not support the html5 audio player. Use flash player below.

Riding the high of a wildly accurate Masters Preview podcast back in April, host Gill Alexander welcomes fellow host Dave Kelner from William Hill's golf podcast to highlight golfers with value at this week's U.S. Open Golf Championship at the Merion Golf Club at Ardmore, Pennsylvania.  Then, from the perspective of a European to that of an American quant, Rufus Peabody of Massey-Peabody Analytics and a professional bettor in his own right, lets slip a name or two in the field who you just may want to put your money behind.  It's all about exploiting the betting markets of the second golf major of the year, on Wednesday's Betting Dork (June 12, 2013).

Tonight on Kickin' It With Keeler,  Ricky breaks down the night in MLB and gives his pick for this week's US Open at Merion Golf Club  Then, its Tebow Time in Foxboro! Doug Kyed from NESN joins the show. He has been at Pats' mini-camp to discuss Tebow as well as New England's skill position issues early on.  Finally, Jonathan Wagner, Knicks' contributor for Yahoo and Nets' contributor on SNY Nets joins the show to talk NBA Finals, Jason Kidd as the next Nets' head coach?, and biggest issue for the Knicks this offseason. 

Join me for another episode of "The Good", The Bad & The Ugly". Update on guests coming to "Golf Talk Live" Plus! U.S. Open Preview, golf's #2 major of the year. Each Year, thousands of competitors enter the U.S. Open. They are professionals and amatuers, teenagers and seniors. All-Americans and walk-ons, teachers and fireman. No matter their background, what they have in common is the dream of teeing it up in the national championship. Merion Golf Club, Ardmore, PA - June 13-16, 2013 I'm happy to take your calls: (646) 716-4667 or email me your questions to: ted.golftalklive@gmail.com Join me your host: Ted J. Odorico here on "Golf Talk Live", every Thursday at 6PM CST      

Jeff Silverman, author of a soon to be released book on the great Championship moments at Merion Golf Club, joins Geoff Shackelford, Mike Clayton and Rod Morri to give some fascinating insights into the host course of next week's US Open venue.