The Greenprint

Leighton Walker
  • 5.0 (2)
  • GOLF
  • UPDATED DAILY

"Exploring the art, science, and business of golf course design, sustainability, and agronomy" By focusing on expert insights and a learning journey, the show is designed to provide both golf enthusiasts and industry stakeholders with a deeper understanding of the complexities behind golf course creation and maintenance Leighton & fellow hosts will blend of interviews with experts, hands-on exploration of golf course practices, and an accessible storytelling style, "The Greenprint" could become a key resource for anyone interested in the world of golf course design, maintenance and preservation.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    Riley Johns - The Process by The Greenprint

    *]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> On this episode of The Process, we sit down with the thoughtful and highly respected golf course architect and shaper Riley Johns. Riley's path through the game is a rare one — having worked alongside both Bill Coore and Tom Doak, he has been shaped by two of the most influential modern design philosophies in golf. Those experiences, combined with years of hands-on shaping work around the world, have helped form Riley's own distinctive perspective on architecture, creativity, and restraint, culminating in Rhebb & Johns Design. *]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> Our conversation explores the experiences and influences that continue to shape Riley's process today. He reflects on his upbringing in the Canadian Rockies and how growing up surrounded by dramatic landscapes sharpened his appreciation for terrain, movement, and scale. Riley also shares stories from his time working with some of the game's most respected operators and architects, discussing the importance of observation, patience, and learning through travel. Part of the discussion centers around Riley's long-standing partnership with Keith Rhebb and the collaborative dynamic that has made their work so admired throughout the golf world. We also dive into the art of routing — one of the most critical and misunderstood aspects of golf course architecture — as Riley explains how he walks and studies a piece of land repeatedly to uncover the best possible golf holes. Rather than forcing ideas onto the landscape, he discusses the discipline of letting the land guide the process and why great routing often comes from careful observation more than ambition. Riley also shares his thoughts on the ideal golf facility — one built around far more than just golf itself. This episode is a thoughtful look into the mindset behind great golf architecture and the experiences that continue to influence one of the industry's most respected modern craftsmen. https://rhebbandjohns.com/  Reach out to Thad - https://thadlaytondesign.com/   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   A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information Himalayas Golf - https://himalayasgolf.com/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

    1hr 35min

  2. 6 MAY

    Architects Round Table Discussion - The Greenprint Episode 29

    A very collaborative episode at the recent EIGCA Annual Meeting in Utrecht, where we joined our partner Toro to record a wide-ranging and insightful conversation with a fantastic group of guests, including: Andy Brown from Toro Toby Ingleton of Golf Course Architecture Magazine Golf course architects: Jeff Lynch of Re:Golf James Edwards of EDI Bruce Charlton of RTJ2. The discussion which was not always a deep "architecture" conversation, began with reflections on three exceptional courses played during the meeting: Kyle Phillips' Bernardus, along with Hilversumsche and De Pan. These courses provided the perfect backdrop to explore the strength of golf in the Netherlands, a country with a rich golfing history where courses are often seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape and foster a strong sense of community. From there, the conversation expanded into how the setting of a golf course influences perception, not just in terms of scenery but in how it interacts with architectural intent. The group also explored the challenges facing golf in the Netherlands, particularly around increasing regulation. The country is often seen as a bellwether for future trends in areas such as biodiversity, chemical use, and water management, raising important questions about how these issues may shape the future of golf globally. The evolution of golf clubs was another key theme, with discussion around opening facilities up to become more inclusive, mixed-use spaces that appeal to a broader audience. Alongside this, the value of practice and short-form facilities—such as short game areas, driving ranges, and putting courses—was highlighted as an increasingly important part of modern golf operations. We also delved into length of Golf Courses and the question of; do we need to reduce the length of courses to appeal to a larger number of Golfers. It was a thoughtful and engaging conversation throughout, and we are grateful to all of our guests for their time and insights. Toro Golf  EIGCA Golf Course Architecture Magazine ReGolf EDI Golf RTJ2   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

    1hr 21min
  3. Dana Fry - The Process by The Greenprint

    24 APR

    Dana Fry - The Process by The Greenprint

    Dana Fry joins The Process by The Greenprint for a deep dive into his design philosophy, influences, and the journey that shaped him into one of golf architecture's leading figures. From his early days learning the craft, through his time working under Tom Fazio, and alongside influential figures like Andy Banfield and Mike Strantz, Dana shares an honest account of how he evolved from shaper to designer. Now, as co-founder of Fry/Straka alongside Jason Straka, he sits at the forefront of major projects across the U.S. and internationally. The conversation explores standout projects, including Miakka in central Florida - a bold and distinctive development with shades of Shadow Creek Golf Course, as well as the contrasting coastal challenge of Curracloe Links in Ireland. Dana also opens up about the realities of golf course architecture: the types of land designers are given, the constraints they face, and how great architects maximize every site's potential. Candid, thoughtful, and deeply passionate, Dana delivers an insightful look into the mindset behind world-class golf course design. https://www.frystraka.com/   Reach out to Thad - 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

    1hr 48min

  4. 12 APR

    Jasper Miners on Architecture and History - The Greenprint 28

    We catch up with Jasper Miners of Evalu18 and Top 100 Golf Courses. Jasper has a deep passion for golf course architecture, and he's become widely respected for helping clubs uncover and understand their history. This work plays a crucial role in guiding future course design, ensuring that any renovations or restorations retain the original spirit and integrity of the course. We dive into his current involvement with St George's Hill in Surrey, where an exciting renovation/restoration project is about to begin under the direction of Brian Schneider and his team. Jasper will play a central role in shaping that process. The conversation also broadens into general course discussion, starting with Streamsong, which Jasper recently visited. We look at Golf in Australia and also Ryder Cup and Open Championship venues.  With his extensive experience playing courses all over the world, Jasper brings a unique perspective to the game and to his work with Top 100 Golf Courses and he talks us through the success and philosophy behind the Top 100 Golf Courses website, and how it has grown into a valuable resource for golfers everywhere. An engaging and insightful chat with Jasper—we hope you enjoy it. https://www.top100golfcourses.com/ https://evalu18.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

    1hr 25min
  5. David McLay Kidd - The Process by The Greenprint

    31 MAR

    David McLay Kidd - The Process by The Greenprint

    Leighton and Thad sit down with the inimitable David McLay Kidd of DMK designs to unpack the process behind his remarkable career designing some of golf's most iconic courses. They explore how David evolved his approach early on—taking on the role of general contractor on many of his projects to gain greater control over execution—and how that decision has shaped the consistency and quality of his work. The conversation dives deep into his creative philosophy, particularly how he transforms diverse and often challenging landscapes into compelling golf experiences through meticulous routing and design. David shares insights from recent projects including River Ranch and Loraloma, before turning the spotlight to Streamsong's fourth and newest course, Bone Valley. As the "fourth cab off the rank," David explains the unique challenges and opportunities of building alongside three established courses—and how he approached carving out something distinctive. Great chats also including an analogy with filmmaking and balancing elite and amateur players in his design. This is a rare, in-depth look at David's thinking, as he goes further than usual in breaking down the principles and process that define his work. The results speak for themselves—and you won't want to miss this one. http://dmkgolfdesign.com/ https://www.streamsongresort.com/   Reach out to Thad - 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

    1hr 56min

  6. 22 MAR

    "On the Tee" with Golf Course Architecture Magazine - Greenprint 27

    On the Tee is our round-up of golf course projects taking shape across the globe, from new openings to developments under construction and recently announced designs. In this episode, we're joined by Toby Ingleton of Golf Course Architecture for our own take on a "Florida Swing," focusing on a cluster of exciting projects in the region and beyond. We begin with Apogee's Summit Course in Florida, designed by Kyle Phillips, which is already open and setting a high benchmark. From there, we move to Ireland, where Phillips is also leading the transformation of Brittas Bay, formerly known as the European Club, bringing a fresh vision to a well-known links landscape. Staying in the U.S., we explore the much-anticipated "Bone Valley" course at Streamsong Resort, designed by David McLay Kidd, alongside his work at River Ranch, another project generating significant interest for its scale and ambition. The episode also highlights the work of Dana Fry and Jason Straka, with two notable developments: Miakka in Florida and Curracloe Links at Ravenport Resort in Ireland. Both projects showcase their distinct design approach across very different environments. With most of these courses scheduled to open in late 2026 or early 2027, there's a great deal to look forward to as these designs come to life. For more detail on all of these projects, visit Golf Course Architecture Magazine. https://www.golfcoursearchitecture.net/   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

    43 min
  7. Tom MacKenzie - The Process by The Greenprint - Episode 2

    12 MAR

    Tom MacKenzie - The Process by The Greenprint - Episode 2

    In Episode 2 of The Process we sit down with Tom Mackenzie of Mackenzie & Ebert to explore the philosophy and thinking behind his approach to golf course design. Strategy sits at the heart of Tom's work, with a clear focus on creating the best possible playing conditions while offering engaging strategic choices for as many golfers as possible. Strategy can take many forms, and in the episode Tom shares examples from several projects. At North Hants Golf Club the design approach included reducing the number of bunkers while still maintaining strategic interest and visual clarity. At New South Wales Golf Club a previously overlooked stone wall was discovered during the design process and incorporated as an out-of-bounds feature, creating a distinctive strategic element that now influences how the hole is played. We also discuss the company's philosophy of producing highly detailed designs before any construction begins. This careful planning helps ensure that the strategic intent of a course is clear from the outset, while still leaving room for adjustments and creative decisions once work begins on the ground. The balance between precise planning and on-site flexibility is a key part of the firm's process. With the firm involved at a number of venues associated with The Open Championship, Tom reflects on the responsibility that comes with helping to care for some of golf's most historic courses. While he doesn't feel overwhelmed by the role, he does acknowledge the importance of protecting the character and heritage of these storied venues. The conversation touches on work at a range of notable clubs including West Sussex Golf Club, Nairn Golf Club, Victoria Golf Club, Royal Liverpool Golf Club, Royal Birkdale Golf Club, Royal St George's Golf Club and North Hants. It's an insightful conversation with one of the game's most thoughtful architects, offering a deeper look into the strategic thinking and design process that shape some of the world's most respected golf courses. https://www.mackenzieandebert.com/   Reach out to Thad - 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

    1hr 26min

  8. 3 MAR

    Life at Lofoten Links (Jerry Mulvihill & Tekla Kvachadze) - Greenprint 26

    On this Toro Partnership episode, we visit the stunning Lofoten Links in Norway and speak to Jerry Mulvihill (Superintendent) and Tekla Kvachadze Jerry and Tekla share how they manage turf in one of the world's most remote and visually striking locations, dealing with short growing seasons, harsh weather, limited access to resources, and the unique challenges of midnight sun and polar night.  They also explain some of the benefits and advantages of living in this beautiful part of the world.  The course goes from strength to strength and continues to attract Golfers from all over the world.   This episode covers: Maintaining turf in extreme cold Adapting agronomy to the unique climate Equipment, staffing, and logistics in remote locations The shared problem-solving mindset required to deliver top-level playing conditions The joys of working in Lofoten, but also with a fantastic team https://www.lofotenlinks.no/en/   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

    45 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

"Exploring the art, science, and business of golf course design, sustainability, and agronomy" By focusing on expert insights and a learning journey, the show is designed to provide both golf enthusiasts and industry stakeholders with a deeper understanding of the complexities behind golf course creation and maintenance Leighton & fellow hosts will blend of interviews with experts, hands-on exploration of golf course practices, and an accessible storytelling style, "The Greenprint" could become a key resource for anyone interested in the world of golf course design, maintenance and preservation.

Information

  • Creator
    Leighton Walker
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    The Greenprint

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