Golf Club Talk UK

Leighton Walker
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Golf
  • Updated Biweekly

This show provides an entertaining and informative look at Golf Club life in the UK featuring the latest news and information. The show features interviews with the people that make things happen in the industry but also provides listeners with reviews of clubs that are at the top of their game. Largely the show will be aimed at people working in the golf industry and who govern clubs. It will aim to provide best practices and take a positive and forward thinking look at where golf clubs are heading in the United Kingdom. Episodes include traditional GCTUK, GCMA Insights on GCTUK and Trending Topics with England Golf

  1. 3d ago

    How Golf Canada is Rethinking Participation Through Talon Links Putting Park - GCTUK 156

    In this special episode of Golf Club Talk UK, recorded at Golf Canada's brand-new headquarters at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, host Leighton Walker is joined by Grant Fraser, Project Manager at Golf Canada, and Paul Jansen, Founder of Himalayas Golf, to explore one of the most innovative participation projects in golf today. The discussion centres on Talon Links, Golf Canada's new free-to-play putting park that is redefining what accessible golf can look like. Designed by Himalayas Golf, Talon Links is far more than mini golf. It is a sophisticated 18-hole putting experience inspired by the strategy, movement and visual appeal of traditional golf course architecture. Built across two acres with rolling fescue dunes, natural features, dramatic contouring and premium synthetic putting surfaces, it delivers an authentic golfing experience that welcomes players of every age and ability. Grant explains the vision behind Golf Canada's new Home for Canadian Golf, which combines its headquarters, the relocated Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and Talon Links into a unique destination designed to grow participation and engage the local community. Paul shares the creative process behind designing the putting park, from the first sketches drawn in a bunker at Glen Abbey through to creating one of the most distinctive short-format golf experiences anywhere in the world. The episode also explores the inspiration taken from the great links courses of Scotland and Ireland, the recreation of Nick Taylor's famous 72-foot winning putt from the 2023 RBC Canadian Open as Talon Links' closing hole, and why Golf Canada believes facilities like this can play a major role in introducing more people to the game. The conversation expands into the growing importance of small-space golf, the evolution of premium synthetic putting surfaces, the rapid rise of simulator golf and non-traditional golf experiences, and how clubs can transform underused land into engaging, low-maintenance facilities that create new opportunities for participation and enjoyment. Whether you're a golf club manager, architect, owner, governing body or simply passionate about the future of the game, this episode offers fascinating insight into how innovative thinking, creative design and community-focused investment can help shape golf's next generation. Golf Club Talk UK is proudly partnered with Himalayas Golf - https://himalayasgolf.com/ https://www.golfcanada.ca/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   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!

  2. Jul 16

    Panel Session 1 - The Financial Health & Sustainability of Clubs - GCTUK 155

    This episode sees Leighton joined in the Story Ninety-Four - Oxford Podcast Studios by an expert panel to tackle one of the biggest questions facing golf clubs today: how do clubs build long-term financial resilience while the industry is still enjoying strong trading conditions? Representing a broad cross-section of the industry are John McCormack (Club Benchmarking EMEA), Paul Mould (Accountancy Matters), Gavin Anderson (England Golf), Will Hewitt (59club) and Ben Laing (Branston Golf & Country Club). Together they explore why now is the time for clubs to plan ahead rather than assume the current boom and strong conditions will continue indefinitely. The discussion covers the importance of robust strategic planning, governance and long-term capital investment, with the panel highlighting why many clubs remain underprepared for future economic challenges. They examine rising operating costs, staffing pressures, inflation, major infrastructure spending, and why diversification of income streams has become essential rather than optional. The conversation also looks beyond finances, exploring how customer experience, staff engagement and culture increasingly separate thriving clubs from those that struggle. The panel debates why understanding member data, benchmarking performance and acting on meaningful feedback should underpin every major investment decision, while also discussing the opportunities presented by flexible membership models, technology and emerging revenue streams such as driving range technology and padel. This is the first of a two-part panel discussion packed with practical insights for golf club managers, owners, directors and committee members looking to future-proof their clubs for the next decade.  The second episode will focus on what a successful Golf club should, and could look like in 5 or 10 years.   Please support our panellists where you can: https://www.clubbenchmarking.eu/ https://golfaccountancymatters.co.uk/ https://www.englandgolf.org/ https://www.59club.com/ https://branstonclub.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 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!

  3. Jul 9

    Jill Treloggen of JT Interiors on Clubhouse design - GCTUK 154

    Leighton & James catch up and run through a few topics such as the tough weather we are facing and Pro-Ams at golf clubs. Then, they're joined by interior designer Jill Treloggen of JT Interiors to explore why clubhouse design deserves far more attention than it often receives. As golf clubs continue to invest in their facilities, the conversation looks beyond the golf course itself and into the clubhouse. Jill explains why successful interior design is about much more than choosing colours and furniture. The discussion explores how clubs can create welcoming, flexible spaces that encourage members and visitors to stay longer, socialise more, and generate additional revenue, while still respecting the traditions and heritage that make every club unique. The trio also examine the practical realities behind refurbishment projects. From improving the flow of a clubhouse and creating multi-functional spaces to upgrading heating, lighting, acoustics and infrastructure, they discuss the importance of planning beyond the aesthetics. James shares insights from Henley Golf Club's own major clubhouse redevelopment, highlighting the challenges of balancing member expectations, budgets and long-term commercial objectives. Finally, the conversation turns to current design trends, sustainable refurbishment, commercial-grade furniture, and how clubs should begin the planning process. Whether your club is considering a complete redevelopment or simply looking to refresh tired spaces, this episode offers practical advice on creating clubhouses that better serve today's members while attracting tomorrow's golfers. Check out JT Interiors here: https://www.jtiuk.com/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   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!

  4. Jun 30

    Joel Livingood (GM/CEO - Interlachen CC) & Andy Brown (Toro) - Episode 153

    In this Toro partner episode of Golf Club Talk UK, we welcome Andy Brown and begin by reflecting on his visit to the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association (ASTMA) and Golf Management Australia (GMA) Conference. We discuss the unique format of the event, the atmosphere it creates, and the key conversations taking place beyond the conference sessions. From course maintenance and sustainability to leadership, workforce challenges and club operations, we explore the themes shaping Australian golf and ask whether the industry is entering a particularly optimistic period. We then turn our attention to Leighton's experience spending time with Toro at its global headquarters in Minneapolis. Alongside course managers and industry leaders from around the world, the few days provided valuable insight into innovation, technology and the future direction of golf course maintenance. We discuss the biggest takeaways, the ideas that stood out most, and how they could influence facilities across the UK and beyond. Our featured guest is Joel Livingood, General Manager and CEO of Interlachen Country Club, one of the United States' most respected private clubs. Joel shares his journey into club management, explains what makes Interlachen such a special place, and outlines the significant investment and development that has taken place across the course and wider facilities in recent years. A particular focus is the major renovation of the club's iconic Donald Ross-designed course and the thinking behind such an important project. The conversation also explores what it takes to lead one of America's premier clubs. Joel discusses building a positive culture, leading a large and diverse team, meeting evolving member expectations, and balancing day-to-day operations with long-term strategic planning. We finish by looking at the wider state of golf clubs, the qualities required of modern club leaders, and how Joel continues to develop both professionally and personally. There are some fantastic insights and plenty of practical takeaways throughout this episode. We hope you enjoy listening. https://www.interlachencc.org/ https://www.golfmanagement.com.au/ https://www.astma.com.au/   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   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!

  5. Jun 19

    GCMA Insights on GCTUK - Investing In Your Own Leadership Development

    In this episode, Tom Brooke, CEO of the GCMA, is joined by Ben Driver, CEO of Royal Blackheath Golf Club, and Scott Clark, Managing Director of Woking Golf Club, to discuss the importance of leadership development and the responsibility leaders have to continually invest in themselves in order to better serve those around them. Tom opens the conversation by exploring why leadership development is so important, particularly within the club sector, and why personal growth can sometimes be overlooked in formal education and management programmes. While technical knowledge and operational expertise remain important, the discussion focuses on the value of developing the skills, behaviours and self-awareness that enable leaders to have a greater impact on their teams and organisations. Drawing on their own experiences, Tom, Ben and Scott reflect on their leadership journeys and the development opportunities that have shaped them throughout their careers. They discuss the lessons learned, the challenges faced and the importance of remaining committed to continuous improvement regardless of experience or seniority. The conversation explores how personal development translates into everyday leadership, from building stronger relationships and creating positive working environments to making better decisions and supporting the growth of others. The guests share how increased self-awareness and a greater understanding of human behaviour have helped them become more effective leaders and colleagues. A key theme is the role emotional intelligence plays within the wider leadership toolkit. The panel discusses how understanding yourself can help you better understand those around you, enabling leaders to adapt their approach to different individuals, communicate more effectively and create stronger, more engaged teams. Ben and Scott also share how their development has equipped them to handle difficult conversations with greater confidence and empathy, balancing accountability with understanding while maintaining positive working relationships. The discussion extends beyond team leadership to the challenge of leading upwards, examining how leaders can build productive relationships with boards and committees, manage differing perspectives and influence decision-making through effective communication and trust. Throughout the episode, the guests reflect on the tangible impact that ongoing leadership development has had on their own performance and on the people they lead. The conversation highlights the idea that the more leaders invest in understanding and developing themselves, the better equipped they are to support, inspire and develop others. This episode offers practical insights for managers and leaders at all stages of their careers who are committed to continuous growth and recognise that great leadership begins with personal development. https://gcma.org.uk/ https://www.royalblackheath.com/ https://wokinggolfclub.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 partners: Toro - Click here for more information Himalayas Golf - 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!

    GCMA Insights on GCTUK - Investing In Your Own Leadership Development

  6. Jun 10

    Global Edition - Hugo Mills, R&A + GCAE update - Episode 152

    Leighton catches up with friend of the pod, Renate Roeleveld, CEO of the GCAE, where we look at what's happening, including the upcoming Conference in November.  The theme will be around experience and we touch on this throughout.  Hugo Mills then joins us to discuss The R&A's mission to grow the game around the world and the challenges of increasing participation across both established and emerging golf markets. Drawing on his work with more than 160 golf federations globally, Hugo shares insights into how different countries are approaching golf development, why accessibility remains one of the sport's biggest challenges, and the role that new formats, urban facilities, simulators and short-form golf experiences can play in attracting new players. The conversation explores the importance of making golf easier to access and more affordable to start, while also highlighting examples of innovative work taking place in countries such as Malta, Poland, Chile and Colombia. Hugo also discusses golf's growing social value, from health and wellbeing benefits to community impact, and why these factors could help unlock greater investment in the sport in the years ahead. A fascinating look at the future of golf development and the opportunities that exist to bring the game to new audiences around the world. https://www.randa.org/about-us https://www.gcaeconference.eu/gcae-conference/ Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information Himalayas Golf - 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!

  7. Jun 3

    Trending Topics with England Golf - The Brabazon Trophy - Behind a Major Championship

    *]: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:2c4bba34-2d4c-4d65-b5b7-82bd8450e17a-1" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:2c4bba34-2d4c-4d65-b5b7-82bd8450e17a-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> In this special on-location episode of Trending Topics, we teamed up with England Golf at the prestigious Brabazon Trophy, hosted this year at Moortown Golf Club. Leighton spent two days on site in Yorkshire to get behind the scenes of one of England Golf's flagship championships, highlighting the huge amount of work, planning and dedication required to deliver an elite amateur event of this scale. The episode gives listeners insight from organisers, performance staff, the host venue and players competing in the championship — showcasing what makes events like the Brabazon Trophy such an important part of the amateur game in England and beyond. This is a massive week for everyone involved in staging the event, but equally for the 144 players competing. The championship now attracts an increasingly international field, with players travelling from across Europe, as well as countries including Canada, South Africa and Australia. Guests featured in the episode include James Crampton (Championships Director) discussing the organisational side of running a championship of this magnitude; Ben Gorvett (Performance Manager) explaining how he supports players throughout championship week; Peter Rishworth (GM - Moortown GC) offering insight into the club's role in hosting such a prestigious event; Jack Drury - sharing a player perspective from championship week, and Tom Osborne; reflecting on his week after becoming the Brabazon Trophy champion. A huge thank you to everyone who helped put this episode together, along with all the staff and members at Moortown Golf Club for their hospitality and support throughout the week. To find out more about England Golf championships and amateur golf in England, visit England Golf Brabazon Trophy information   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information Himalayas Golf - 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!

    Trending Topics with England Golf - The Brabazon Trophy - Behind a Major Championship

  8. May 26

    Alex Buckner, Golf Coach - GCTUK 151

    Alex Buckner joins Leighton & James to talk about his journey from aspiring club manager to one of the game's rising tour coaches. He opens up on building a coaching brand from scratch, why most golfers chase the wrong fixes, and how identity, systems and communication became the foundation of his success. The conversation dives deep into club coaching, and elite coaching, drawing the balance between technical and mental performance, and why pressure is something the best players actively train for. Alex shares stories from working with players including Marco Penge, Georgia Hall, Richard Mansell and Grant Forrest, explaining how long-term development often means being willing to struggle in the short term. There's also insight into the modern coaching landscape, from social media myths and golf technology to data, biomechanics and what separates great coaches from great communicators. Alex explains why "relevant, organised knowledge" matters more than endless swing tips, and why coaching at the highest level is far more about problem-solving than perfect technique. The episode finishes with Alex discussing his ambitions for the future, growing his coaching business, building a broader academy model and continuing to establish himself among the top coaches in world golf.   If you enjoy listening to high performers.....check this one out!   https://www.alexbucknergolf.com/ Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   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!

See All (250)

Ratings & Reviews

About

This show provides an entertaining and informative look at Golf Club life in the UK featuring the latest news and information. The show features interviews with the people that make things happen in the industry but also provides listeners with reviews of clubs that are at the top of their game. Largely the show will be aimed at people working in the golf industry and who govern clubs. It will aim to provide best practices and take a positive and forward thinking look at where golf clubs are heading in the United Kingdom. Episodes include traditional GCTUK, GCMA Insights on GCTUK and Trending Topics with England Golf

Information

  • Creator
    Leighton Walker
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    250
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Golf Radio Network
  • Show Website
    Golf Club Talk UK

You Might Also Like