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. 1D AGO

    The Evolution of Clubs & Management - Panel Session Part 1 - GCTUK 147

    In this first of a two-part series, we bring together four leading voices from across the golf industry for an honest and forward-thinking panel discussion. Recorded at Story 94 Oxford Podcast Studios, this conversation explores how the golf industry is evolving and what that means for modern club management. The discussion focuses on the changing landscape of the game, the pressures and opportunities facing clubs today, and how leadership roles are adapting in response. This episode sets the foundation for understanding where golf club management is heading and what it takes to stay relevant in a rapidly shifting environment, as well as the rise of "Outsourcing" in clubs and Golf facilities Featured Guests Renate Roeleveld - GCAE Stuart Gillett - Legacy Golf Advisors Rob Corcoran - The Revenue Club Will Hewitt - 59 Club We begin by unpacking the evolution of the golf industry, looking at how traditional club models are being challenged by modern expectations and why adaptability has become essential for long-term success.  The conversation then turns to changing management structures and roles within clubs. As the industry becomes more commercially focused, leadership positions are evolving to prioritise customer experience, revenue generation, and operational efficiency. The group discusses how the skillset required of today's club managers is very different from what it once was, and what that means for the future of leadership in golf. This is being complemented by the increased use of external advisors and service providers and we explore outsourcing as a strategy for driving revenue and improving the customer experience.  This may include areas such as accountancy, marketing, online revenue, customer service, F&B as well as others. Coming Next (Episode 2) In Part 2, we continue the conversation by looking at the rise of non-traditional golf venues and whether clubs are ready to compete, and how the industry is adapting to meet the expectations of new generations of golfers. Episode 2 will be released in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.   Please support the panellists where possible: https://gcae.eu/ https://legacygolfadvisors.com/ https://www.59clubuk.com/ 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 partners: 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!

    1 hr
  2. Trending Topics with England Golf - Growing Participation for women between 18-50 including wrap of the Women's Club Growth Workshop

    MAR 19

    Trending Topics with England Golf - Growing Participation for women between 18-50 including wrap of the Women's Club Growth Workshop

    Leighton recently attended a Women's Club Growth Workshop at Greetham Valley Golf Club. Following the event, he spoke with Emma Highwood, Head of Women's Development, and Lauren Spray, Women & Girls Manager, who led the day. In this episode, they reflect on the workshop content while exploring some of the wider challenges facing the game. The conversation looks at why female participation in the 18-50 age demographic remains low (currently 2% of total membership numbers), as well as the key barriers that are preventing more women from getting involved in golf.  Non-club golf participation among women is much higher and how can clubs start to replicate this?  Emma and Lauren also share practical insights into how clubs can create more welcoming, inclusive environments that encourage participation and long-term engagement.   They go on to discuss three core areas that clubs can focus on to grow their women's sections, including understanding and making better use of their existing facilities, gaining genuine buy-in from across the club, and putting in place simple but effective actions that can improve the chances of success. The episode concludes with an on-site discussion featuring several of the day's delegates, including James, General Manager at Stratford Oaks, Jenny and Sue, volunteers at Nuneaton Golf Club, and Maggie, Chair of Scraptoft Golf Club. They share their reflections on the workshop, talk about the realities at their own clubs, and outline what they plan to take away and implement moving forward. Women's Club Growth Workshops https://www.englandgolf.org/women-on-par   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   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

    1h 8m

  3. MAR 13

    John Adamson (Ramside) & Thanks Eddie! - GCTUK 146

    In this episode of GCTUK, Leighton sits down with John Adamson from Ramside Estate to talk about one of the most talked-about new developments in golf entertainment — The Pin at Ramside.  We also look at Ramside as a whole Before the interview begins, we open with an introduction featuring James Brockington and Eddie Bullock. This episode marks Eddie's final appearance in this format on GCTUK, and we take a moment to recognise the enormous contribution he has made to the show and the wider GCTUK community. Eddie has been a huge part of the podcast's journey — bringing insight, energy and plenty of memorable moments along the way. His passion for golf and the industry has helped shape the conversations we've had over the years, and we want to say a sincere thank you for everything he has contributed. While this may be his last appearance in this format, his impact on GCTUK will certainly last. Following the intro, Leighton chats with John Adamson about the exciting momentum building around The Pin, a new concept at Ramside that is already creating a buzz within the golf and leisure industry.  We also explore John's evolution of Ramside as a total leisure facility.....not just a Golf venue. In the conversation they discuss: The vision behind The Pin at Ramside Why the concept is attracting attention across golf and hospitality How venues like this can help bring new audiences into the game The balance between traditional golf and modern entertainment experiences   It's a fascinating look at how golf experiences are evolving and how forward-thinking venues like Ramside are helping push the industry in new directions. A big thank you to John Adamson for joining us — and once again, a huge thank you to Eddie Bullock for his outstanding contribution to GCTUK. Enjoy the episode.   https://www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk/ https://www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk/the-pin/   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!

    57 min

  4. MAR 6

    Kris Lynch on The Health Benefits of Golf! - GCTUK 145

    *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:b8e6f408-c079-4f89-ad21-04514017d38c-2" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode of Golf Club Talk UK, Leighton Walker and James Brockington speak with Kris Lynch, founder of the Golf Yourself Healthy podcast, about the relationship between golf and wellbeing. Kris shares how he initially struggled with golf growing up in Aberdeen, often feeling out of place and frustrated with the game. After moving to London and playing more casually with colleagues, his perspective changed and golf became something he enjoyed rather than something he felt pressured to perform in. During a difficult period with his mental health in 2019, golf became an important outlet, giving him space to think and unwind. Following the tragic loss of his son, Kris launched the Golf Yourself Healthy podcast to explore how golf can support mental and physical wellbeing. The conversation explores how golf can provide benefits through time outdoors, social connection, physical activity and moments of solitude. At the same time, the hosts discuss how performance pressure and traditional club structures can sometimes make the game feel less accessible for new players. Kris highlights that many people who play golf don't actually identify as "golfers", often because they feel they are not good enough or don't fit the traditional culture of clubs. The episode looks at how the industry could better welcome different types of players by focusing less on competition and handicaps and more on enjoyment and belonging. Ultimately, the discussion centres on the idea that golf can mean different things to different people, and that prioritising enjoyment and wellbeing — "happiness first, handicap later" — could help more people experience the positive impact the game can have.     https://www.golfyourselfhealthy.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@embracetherough     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!

    1h 7m
  5. Designing Golf Courses for the Slower Swing Speed - The Greenprint 23

    MAR 1

    Designing Golf Courses for the Slower Swing Speed - The Greenprint 23

    This episode takes a deep, topic-led look at golf course design for the slower swing speed player. We use this term deliberately, because swing speed is what really determines distance and ball flight, and a large proportion of the golfing population fits into this category. Slower swing speed players can be young or old, male or female, beginners or lifelong golfers. It is also worth remembering that most golf courses are, in reality, home to slower swing speed players. The 7,000-plus yard course is the outlier, not the norm. We are joined by Kari Haug of Kari Haug Planning & Design, alongside Giulia Ferroni of Leeds Golf Design, to explore how course design can better serve this majority of golfers. The conversation goes well beyond simply adding forward tees. We dig into how hazard placement affects playability, realistic carry distances from the tee, and how green complexes can be designed to challenge better players while still remaining accessible for those with slower swing speeds. Kari shares insights from her extensive research into this subject, with a clear focus on how modern course design can better incorporate these principles to improve inclusion, enjoyment, and long-term accessibility for all golfers.  Giulia brings a practical knowledge from having helped several courses work through this in their course design. https://www.karihaug.com/ https://www.leedsgolfdesign.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

    1h 4m
  6. Trending Topics with England Golf - Board Learning Workbook and Governance Training for Club Leaders

    FEB 25

    Trending Topics with England Golf - Board Learning Workbook and Governance Training for Club Leaders

    We're joined by Gavin Anderson of England Golf and Jerry Kilby of Kanda Golf.  The conversation focuses on the importance of governance training for board members in golf clubs, highlighting the new initiative by England Golf aimed at improving the knowledge and skills of volunteers. Their new Board Learning online workbook, as outline by Gavin and Jerry, provides the perfect outlet for new or existing Board members, Committee members or volunteers of clubs - to understand what is required within their roles.  The discussion covers the need for structured training, strategy v operations, understanding your responsibilities as a Director and how to ensure your club's success through good strategic planning.  Key Takeaways from the conversation: The initiative aims to improve governance in golf clubs. 77% of board members have never served on a board before. Training for volunteers is essential for effective governance. The course is designed to be accessible and engaging. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive and numbers are strong. Understanding the general manager's role is crucial for volunteers. The course will evolve based on participant feedback. Engagement from general managers is key to implementation. Future training will focus on specific roles within clubs. Celebrating successes will encourage more participation. https://www.englandgolf.org/training-and-development   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 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!

    39 min

  7. FEB 20

    Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award Winners - GCTUK 144

    In partnership with Toro, we delve into the world of greenkeeping in this episode, shining a spotlight on the next generation of talent in the profession. We're delighted to welcome the two winners from the recent Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards. Bradley Taylor of Beau Desert Golf Club was named Student Greenkeeper of the Year, while Matt Strutt-Donnelly of Stoneham Golf Club claimed the Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year award. The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards in conjunction with BIGGA are designed to recognise and reward emerging talent within the industry, celebrating students who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their education, professionalism in the workplace, and a genuine passion for turf management. The initiative not only highlights individual excellence but also reinforces the importance of structured learning, mentorship, and long-term career pathways within greenkeeping. Bradley and Matt talk us through their journeys into greenkeeping, the clubs they work at, the aspects of the job they enjoy most, and what motivates them on a daily basis. They also explain how winning these awards has boosted their confidence and how the recognition will help propel their careers forward. This is a genuinely strong initiative for the industry, and one that clubs should fully support — not only by investing in education and development, but also by actively putting forward deserving team members for awards like these. More information here: https://www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk/students-awards/toro-student-greenkeeper-of-the-year-awards-winners/ https://www.bigga.org.uk/education/toro-student-greenkeeper-of-the-year.html   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!

    36 min

  8. FEB 15

    David Scott, GM - Dumbarnie Links and Myth-Busting with The Revenue Club - GCTUK 143

    Leighton is joined by partners of the show, The Revenue Club, with Chris Knight and Rob Corcoran, for a straight-talking conversation that takes on some of the biggest myths around dynamic pricing and using spare tee times to drive additional revenue for golf clubs. Together, they challenge the idea that flexible pricing creates a race to the bottom, attracts the wrong type of golfer, or negatively impacts members, and instead explore how it can be used sensibly to strengthen a club's overall commercial performance. Eddie is then joined by David Scott, Captain of the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland, Honorary Professional of The R&A, and, when he's not doing all that, General Manager of Dumbarnie Links. David talks through his journey in the game, from playing to working in a variety of roles at some outstanding clubs, all leading to his current role at Dumbarnie. He's a respected figure in the industry and his perspective on both golf and club management makes this a really worthwhile listen. As a bonus for GCTUK listeners, The Revenue Club are offering a free benchmarking report on your green fee revenue, along with a visit to walk you through the findings. Just mention that you're a GCTUK listener when you get in touch via www.therevenueclub.co.uk   https://www.dumbarnielinks.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!

    1h 20m
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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
    235
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Golf Radio Network
  • Show Website
    Golf Club Talk UK

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