Podcast appearances and mentions of Steve Carroll

Over the last five years, Steve Carroll scaled Kelso Industries from zero to $1.1–$1.2B top line with 3,500+ employees across mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) — powered by 29 acquisitions and an “empowered, decentralized” operating model. In this wide-ranging conversation, Steve and John unpack the Kelso flywheel (construction ➜ retrofit ➜ maintenance ➜ service), how to choose what to centralize vs. decentralize, why leadership pipelines matter more than playbooks, and the realities of integrating owner-led companies at scale. We also dig into data center demand, non-union strategy, and the “survival mode” moments that nearly derailed the journey.If you're thinking about multi-location expansion, commercial/industrial MEP, or acquiring while operating, this one's a blueprint.What You'll Learn-The Kelso flywheel: use construction as an entry point, expand into retrofit, sell maintenance, earn lifetime service-29 acquisitions without breaking culture: partnering with operators, light-touch integrations, and when to standardize-Centralize vs. decentralize: cash & risk centralization; empower branches on P&L, customers, and ops-Building leadership pipelines (trades & military) to keep growth from stalling-Data centers & industrial demand: where the growth is and what capabilities matter- How a billion-dollar platform still treats growth like survival

What has happened to the Ryder Cup? From a pre-event pay-for-play row to the appalling behaviour on show in the galleries at Bethpage Black, it felt like golf's image has taken a beating. Europe won the trophy but have we lost the spirit of what the near century old event is about? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll break down the last three days in New York. Why did they ruin a fantastic golf course? Why was anyone surprised some fans went too far? What on earth happens to the Ryder Cup from here – is it too late to dial it back? You might think we're being downbeat in the wake of an historic away victory but does this competition need to regain its soul? The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Bethpage Black is almost upon us and we've got a bumper preview show ahead of a mouthwatering match up between the USA and Europe. Tom Irwin sits down with Ryder Cup legend Justin Rose, who's about to make his seventh appearance in European colours. Tom and Justin talk about his commitment to the sport through the Rose Ladies Series, barriers to participation, as well as his longevity following another successful season. But, of course, they also talk about the Ryder Cup: What does he expect the atmosphere to be like at Bethpage? Should Keegan Bradley have picked himself? He also relives the Miracle of Medinah and Seve's enduring legacy as a European icon. And, of course, with a vacancy for a skipper at Adare Manor in two years' time, how does the captaincy look? If that's not enough, Tom and co-host Steve Carroll also run the rule over golf's greatest team event. Can Europe defy the New York crowds and bring the trophy back with them? The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

We asked your thoughts about the World Handicap System and you responded in huge numbers – almost breaking Steve Carroll's email. In today's episode he joins co-host Tom Irwin to chat through some of what you said about WHS. We discuss the results of Golf Ireland's survey of its handicap allowances pilot – where many clubs surprisingly opted not to change anything. We talk about what needs to happen with general play to make it more palatable to those suspicious it's open to manipulation. And what is to come? Are gimmes inevitable? Tom and Steve also review the recent Walker Cup, while discussing pathways for juniors and Steve's fascination with hickory golf! Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Today I'm joined by returning guest Steve Carroll — artist, lecturer, and author of the Diaspora science fiction series.In this episode, Steve opens up about the creative process behind his writing, and we dive deep into the role of characters in storytelling — how they evolve, why they matter, and what they can teach us about resilience, belonging, and transformation.It's an inspiring discussion not just for writers or sci-fi fans, but for anyone interested in how creativity reflects real life. You'll hear insights on: 

It's been a rite of passage in the Irwin household. Tom's son has just received his first handicap and in this week's episode we discuss that journey. Is iGolf a way to get new players started without the pressure of a club environment? Should clubs and courses be set-up differently to encourage beginners and younger golfers to get into the game? And a full-sized golf course is massive! Do we need to take more responsibility in providing short form courses and different options for those who just want to get out and play a few holes? Is slapping down a few green tees enough? Tom and Steve Carroll also break down the Ryder Cup announcements. Is this the best chance for a European win in the United States in years? And Steve delves into a real-life rules incident that involved a ball search and a stopped clock. This relatively unheard of rule might save you some shots out on the course! Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en  

We haven't nattered about our favourite subject for a while, so Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll can't resist another yarn about the World Handicap System. Steve is finally starting to see his index fall but is surprised it's not happening quicker, while Tom has played in some challenging conditions only to see the Playing Conditions Calculation remain stubbornly stable. The duo get into a debate about its merits. Tom has been on an incredible trip to Kent to play the Hagen 54, a one-day journey across Royal St George's, Royal Cinque Ports and Prince's. We'll let him reveal all. And Steve has been asked whether finding a lost club on the course could bring a penalty if you've already got 14 in your bag. What's the answer? Listen in to find out! Don't miss our new NCG Top 100s podcast: https://podfollow.com/1826546061 Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Tom Irwin has just returned from a week at Royal Portrush where he was both media and family man. Once he'd put away the laptop, he experienced The Open with his wife and two young children. Does the Championship do enough to engage families? Is it really doing its best to inspire the next generation? He discusses this with co-host Steve Carroll and the pair also dive into Scottie Scheffler's fourth major victory. Is he simply the dominant force, or is there not a lot to challenge him? And Tom asks Steve about the rules dramas with Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy. Was the punishment too strong in Lowry's case? It's an interesting discussion on a situation most of us will have experienced at our clubs. Don't miss our new NCG Top 100s podcast: https://podfollow.com/1826546061 Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en    

It's the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush and we've got an unmatched preview to get you into the spirit for the final men's major of the year. Tom Irwin recounts his memories of playing the Dunluce course that will host the championship this week, as well as giving us a behind the scenes tour of some of the town's highlights. Co-host Steve Carroll passionately argues for the removal of the internal out of bounds that did for Rory McIlroy's chances in 2019 and tests Tom on his Open rules knowledge. And, of course, we tell you who we think can lift the Claret Jug on Sunday night. Get your Open week off to the best possible start by giving it a listen! Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

A new report says golf is a big turn off for plenty of kids – and huge numbers of parents don't even try to get their children into the sport. The findings, from American Golf, say the Covid boom hasn't been reflected in interest from Under-18s and we risk “losing an entire generation” without action. Is the future of our game in trouble? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll, both parents of young children, ask if we need to do more to get our offspring away from YouTube and onto the course. Elsewhere, Tom recounts his mammoth 108-hole marathon as he took part in The Big Golf Race to raise cash for Prostate Cancer, Steve laments a disappointing club championship and we ask whether Lottie Woad should have been given her prize money after the amateur sensationally won the Irish Open on the Ladies European Tour. Are the Rules of Amateur Status fit for purpose? You can donate to NCG's Big Golf Race here: https://biggolfrace.prostatecanceruk.org/fundraising/toms-big-golf-race395 Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Steve Carroll, Emerson Etem and Guy Hebert cover day one of the 2025 NHL Draft from Newport Beach, CA! The crew reacts live to the announcement of Roger McQueen being selected 10th overall by the Anaheim Ducks (01:35), followed by a player breakdown and analysis from the Ducks Director of Player Evaluation, Bruce Franklin (05:38). Later, Martin Madden (11:22), Scott Niedermayer (16:31), Sudarshan Maharaj (29:16), Aaron Teats (40:11), Henry Samueli (49:55) and Pat Verbeek (56:21) join the program to discuss round one of the draft.

Record rounds, record scores submitted – the picture for golf looks rosy. The post Covid boom seems alive and well. So why are some in the golf industry gloomy? Why are clubs closing and why, in particular, does it seem like there is a sustained assault on municipal golf? In this week's pod, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll look behind the numbers to see what's going on in our golf clubs. Elsewhere, Tom explains why he found the US Open at Oakmont a turn-off, and not just metaphorically, the pair try to work out what's up with Rory McIlroy, and Steve explains why he has been bitten with the golf bug once more. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en    

Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll are back in the saddle and they're zoning in this week on tee times. Should it be a free-for-all when you want to play golf? Is it better for all tee times to be booked? Or is a mix of the two the best way? We've got some strong views on this tricky clubhouse debate. Elsewhere, Tom's got a course you must visit if you're ever in Fife – we can guarantee it won't be the first that springs to mind, while Steve's got a rules poser on halfway house etiquette and how to avoid an unnecessary penalty. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Steve Carroll sits down with the esteemed Walker Cup player and captain who has helped bring through some of England's biggest golfing talents. Nigel Edwards has quite the CV. A former World No. 2 as an amateur, he played in four Walker Cups – holing the winning putt at Ganton in 2003 – and skippered three Great Britain & Ireland sides. Indeed, his victorious team at Lytham 10 years ago was the last time we lifted the trophy on this side of the pond. He has played with and against some of the best players in the game and, in his role at England Golf, has managed a team that has nurtured Georgia Hall, Bronte Law and Lottie Wood to name just three. Nigel has some incredible stories to tell from relaying memories of stalwart Walker Cupper Peter McEvoy to how he almost missed one of the finest days in GB&I amateur history. Enjoy the listen… Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

In this week's episode, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll discuss the drought that is putting greenkeepers in a bind across GB&I. It's barely rained in weeks in many places and the skies look clear for a little while to come. What pressures are course teams under and do we need to rein in our expectations of what golf looks like in the face of climate extremes? Tom's also been putting in a raft of general play scores on his travels across the country. We look at the impact on his handicap and consider if adding a weighting to social scores could lessen the fear of manipulation while also providing the accessibility craved by the game's governing bodies. Steve is also put firmly on his toes by a couple of rules scenarios that could happen in your next competition. Does he have the right answers?   Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

In today's episode we have Steve Carroll, CEO and Co-Founder of Kelso Industries, join us to share his journey from a small-town construction background to leading a 25-acquisition HVAC roll-up. We dive into his Walmart days scaling EBITDA from $15M to $250M, his views on where PE firms get it wrong, and how Kelso's long-term partnership model is flipping the script on traditional roll-ups.[00:00] Steve Carroll joins to discuss Kelso Industries' growth from 1st to 25th acquisition [00:27] Background: Walmart experience and scaling from $15M to $250M EBITDA [00:54] Early years: rural Oregon, construction, MBA, and entrepreneurial itch [01:50] Lessons from Walmart and foundation of Kelso [02:21] Mistake PE firms make: copying each other, bidding up same assets [03:05] Advice: PE should pursue untapped markets and take first-mover risks [04:21] Kelso's differentiator: deep focus on one long-term strategy [05:49] “All in” mindset and scaling Kelso as one big platform [06:18] First acquisition story: moving to AZ, transition challenges [07:46] Struggles, COVID, and lessons learned from initial takeover [08:43] Pivot to partnership model after burnout and realization [09:42] Defining partnership: skin in the game, shared long-term vision [11:08] Case study: Pancho in Idaho becomes the blueprint for future deals [13:03] Criteria for Kelso partnerships and alignment with long-term goals [14:00] Integration learnings: then vs. now at deal #25 [14:50] Kelso now offers finance, legal, HR, recruiting, and systems support [17:44] Operational push: MEP+ and one-call solution model [18:43] Scale enabling better integration and centralized resources [19:12] Raw Selection salary reports plug [20:11] Top 3 learnings: partnership, finance investment, data center boom [23:23] Walmart story: monetizing eyeballs, retail media, Sam's Club success [26:17] Building a $250M EBITDA business unit through creative thinking [27:42] Why HVAC: passion, mission-critical systems, smartest people on site [28:49] Key influence: Brad Jacobs and “How to Make a Few Billion Dollars”Connect with Steve Carroll on LinkedIn. Thanks for tuning in.Subscribe for more episodes on  iTunes & SpotifyGot feedback or questions? Email Alex at alex.rawlings@raw-selection.com. Until next time—keep smashing it!

After an extended Easter break, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll are back in the saddle on The NCG Golf Podcast. They reflect on Rory McIlroy's historic Masters victory and review their own first competitive golf of the year. But the focus, not for the first time, falls on the World Handicap System. After R&A executive director Grant Moir appeared on the podcast to discuss the governing body's new awareness campaign and much more, you have been writing to us in your droves to express your views. We go through some of the correspondence and weigh up the arguments…   Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Aly Lozoff, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Winnipeg Jets from Canada Life Centre.

What should we call those players who manipulate the World Handicap System – and what should clubs do about them? The R&A give us their answer. This week Steve Carroll is joined by Grant Moir, The R&A's executive director of governance, to talk about a new awareness campaign reminding players of their responsibilities under the Rules of Handicapping and what's expected of handicap committees. It's a strong line from the governing body and, yes, the C-word is prominent. But we also discuss some of the other concerns golfers have about WHS, and dwell on some of the positives since the introduction of the system in 2020. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Aly Lozoff, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Minnesota Wild from Xcel Energy Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Colorado Avalanche at Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Los Angeles Kings from Crypto.com Arena.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Calgary Flames from Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Edmonton Oilers from Honda Center.

Aly Lozoff, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Vancouver Canucks from Rogers Arena.

The best week of the golfing year? The Masters is here, the men's majors are back, and this is our comprehensive look ahead to events at Augusta National. Podcast hosts Steve Carroll and Tom Irwin have both seen the golf course at close quarters. They run through their memories and reveal what makes the tournament so special. What would you shoot round Augusta off the Masters tees? Tom also takes you through his infamous ‘Masters spreadsheet'. He's convinced the winner of this year's Green Jacket lies within. Will Rory McIlroy finally do it? We have the answer. As always, please remember to gamble responsibility. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en  

Aly Lozoff, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Calgary Flames from Scotiabank Saddledome.

Who among us doesn't have a load of old golf clubs piled up in their garage or in their loft? Have you thought about selling them but can't be bothered with the hassle of internet auction sites? This week on The NCG Golf Podcast, Steve Carroll is joined by Murray Winton, co-founder of golfclubs4cash. Aside from sponsoring our episodes, he is also at the helm of one of the UK's leading buyers and re-sellers of pre-owned golf equipment. So if you've ever wanted to off-load some old clubs but didn't know how, if you want some valuable hints and tips on how to get the biggest re-sale value, or if you want to get your hands on a bargain, stay tuned as Murray reveals all… Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the San Jose Sharks from Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs from Honda Center.

Golf equipment has got expensive, hasn't it? It seems most drivers have crossed the £500 barrier and putters don't seem too far behind. But is new equipment worth it? In this week's Fairway or Foul debate Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll argue the case for golf club prices. Steve has almost been crushed under the weight of your rules questions – and he answers a trio of interesting queries – while, with the Masters tantalisingly on the horizon, he also tries to outfox Tom in this week's quiz… Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the New York Rangers from Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Boston Bruins from Honda Center.

Tom Irwin is very into his golf right now – and he's had a revelation. He's worked out the sport is much more rewarding if you put time into getting better at it. So in this week's episode of The NCG Podcast, our resident scratch golfer outlines what you need to do to make your dreams of improving come true. You'll be surprised how easy some of them are. Steve Carroll, meanwhile, has been on a trip to St Andrews, the Home of Golf. Which course did he say should have windmills on it, and which is one of his all-time favourites? Hint: Neither are the Old Course. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes from Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Nashville Predators from Bridgestone Arena.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Dallas Stars from American Airlines Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the St. Louis Blues from Enterprise Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Nashville Predators from Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Utah Hockey Club from Delta Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Washington Capitals from Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the New York Islanders from Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the St. Louis Blues from Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks at Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Vancouver Canucks at Honda Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena.

Alexis Downie, Emerson Etem and Steve Carroll get us ready for Anaheim's matchup against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden.