Best John Failla Podcasts (2025)

1
Driving Sustainability at Cabot Saint Lucia 40:44

24d ago40:44

40:44

Many golf courses pride themselves on their lush landscapes, but few stop to consider the unseen challenges of maintaining them—especially on remote islands. In this episode, we dive into the unexpected realities of water management at one of the world’s most stunning new golf resorts, Cabot St. Lucia. Without easy access to freshwater, maintaining…

1
From Seoul to Scarsdale: The Indoor Golf Revolution 49:45

2M ago49:45

49:45

What if the next big movement in golf wasn’t happening on the course, but in a dark room with a screen and a sensor? In this episode, we explore the future of the game through the lens of indoor golf — a trend that’s already transformed the sport in South Korea and is poised to do the same in North America. Most golfers still think of simulators as…

1
How Neglected Public Courses Could Shape the Future of Golf 38:44

2M ago38:44

38:44

Most people don’t think twice about the public golf courses in their city—until they start disappearing. Across the country, historic municipal courses have been neglected for decades, leaving behind a patchwork of underfunded, undermaintained spaces that struggle to serve their communities. But there’s a shift happening, and it’s reshaping the fut…

1
How Solar and Storage Are Changing Golf Forever with Eleanor Brown 33:32

3M ago33:32

33:32

Golf is at a pivotal moment, where the traditions of the game intersect with the pressing need to care for the environment in which we play. Today, I’m speaking with Eleanor Brown, Director of Sustainability at Southworth Development, whose work is charting a new course for the industry. Her role is not just groundbreaking—it’s essential. As one of…

1
Grass, Innovation, and Precision: The Art of Smarter Water Management 40:15

3M ago40:15

40:15

What if the key to the future of golf was hidden in how a course manages its water? For Matteo Serena, Senior Manager of Irrigation Research and Services at the USGA, this question drives his work every day. From native grasses to advanced irrigation systems, Matteo is exploring how courses can use less water without sacrificing playability. With a…

1
National Links Trust New Model for Municipal Golf 59:33

3M ago59:33

59:33

How can 150 acres of urban public green space benefit a community beyond recreational access? How can a golf course address stormwater runoff and pollution issues, improve water quality, revitalize habitats, and improve biodiversity? How can it create partnerships and programs with other nonprofits to improve access and inclusion for underrepresent…

1
Golf’s On-Ramp: How Golf It! is Changing the Game 52:48

4M ago52:48

52:48

What if the game of golf could truly embrace its origins as a sport for everyone? Today I have the pleasure of sitting down with Russell Smith of Golf It! to uncover how this groundbreaking facility in Glasgow, Scotland, is redefining golf’s accessibility and inclusivity. Golf It! is a bold and innovative concept backed by the Royal & Ancient Golf …

1
What Golf Gets Wrong About Sustainability (And How Rhett Evans Plans to Fix It) 42:00

4M ago42:00

42:00

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) plays a hugely important role in shaping the future of golf, and few people embody its mission like Rhett Evans. As CEO for over 15 years, Rhett has become the voice for the 20,000 members who manage and care for millions of acres of green space across the country. His leadership isn’t …

1
Inside Marriott Golf: Innovations Driving Sustainability Across the Globe 44:51

4M ago44:51

44:51

Sustainability in golf is no longer just a buzzword; it’s becoming a defining principle for the future of the sport. As challenges around resources and environmental impact grow, leaders in the industry are stepping forward with innovative approaches. Among them is David Robinson, Senior Director of Golf Grounds at Marriott International, who overs…

1
Inside Golf’s Greatest Sustainability Transformation—DP World Tour’s Green Drive 47:55

5M ago47:55

47:55

Golf is a game deeply connected to nature, and its future depends on how well we care for the environment. Maria Grandinetti Milton, Director of Sustainability for the DP World Tour, is at the forefront of this mission, setting a remarkable example for the sports world. Her work spans global events, innovative environmental practices, and efforts t…

1
National Links Trust New Model for Municipal Golf 59:28

7M ago59:28

59:28

How can 150 acres of urban public green space benefit a community beyond recreational access? How can a golf course address stormwater runoff and pollution issues, improve water quality, revitalize habitats, and improve biodiversity? How can it create partnerships and programs with other nonprofits to improve access and inclusion for underrepresent…

1
Driving Change in Golf: Don Rea on Inclusion, Innovation, and Sustainability 51:10

7M ago51:10

51:10

Golf has always been seen as an exclusive sport, shaped by factors like climate, cost, and tradition. But what if it could be more accessible while still honoring its roots? That’s the vision of Don Rea, Vice President and soon-to-be President of the PGA of America. He is on a mission to broaden access and deepen the sport’s impact without losing w…

1
How the GEO Foundation is Driving Sustainable Golf through Initiatives, Resources, and Certification 52:38

7M ago52:38

52:38

Jonathan Smith is the founder and Executive Director of the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf and one of the foremost authorities on golf sustainability in the world. His foundation focuses on creating a symbiotic relationship with strategic partners to help golf clubs, architects, and individual tournaments reach their sustainability goals. The …

1
The Environmental Benefits of Golf Courses 33:19

7M ago33:19

33:19

What if golf courses were more than just places to tee off? In this episode of The Golf Sustainability Podcast, I sit down with Brian Horgan, chairperson of Michigan State University’s Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences, to dive into a fascinating new perspective on golf. With over 20 years in research and academia, Brian has been at…

1
How the PGA Tour is Leading the Charge in Sustainable Golf 32:36

8M ago32:36

32:36

Why wouldn’t the PGA Tour help lead the charge in golf sustainability? I’m joined by Brazos Barber, the Director of Sustainability for the PGA Tour for his insights in sustainable golf and the PGA Tour. As golf faces growing environmental challenges, Brazos shares his personal journey with me: leading sustainability efforts within one of the world’…

1
Sustainability Technology at Hillcrest Country Club with Matt Muhlenbruch 40:55

8M ago40:55

40:55

As the Director of Agronomy at Hillcrest Country Club, Matt Muhlenbruch fully embraces leveraging technology to make the game of golf more sustainable. His approach is well-researched so he’s only implementing tools and technologies that will drive sustainable golf forward. Ultimately, the technology he adopts has to bring meaningful and measurable…

1
Jay Karen Addresses Golf Sustainability through the Lens of Golf Course Owners 48:19

8M ago48:19

48:19

Jay Karen, CEO of the National Golf Course Owners Association, addresses economic and social sustainability from the viewpoint of an owner/operator. Jay believes that there’s a fine balance between sustainable business practices and sustainability practices. He dissects the nuances one has to consider. Golf course owners are expected to make golf m…

1
St Andrew's Legacy of Sustainable Golf 31:39

8M ago31:39

31:39

St. Andrews Links is the oldest—and most well-known—golf course in the world. Recognized as the “Home of Golf,” it’s existed for over 600 years. Today we have the privilege of speaking with Gordon McKie, the Greenkeeping Operations Manager. Gordon has been at St. Andrews Links in various roles for over 27 years. Every year, over 240,000 rounds of g…

1
Sustainable Golf at Big Cedar Lodge 30:49

9M ago30:49

30:49

“We all live downstream” is one of the mottos of Mr. Jonny Morris, the Founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops. Bubba Wright lets this motto serve as the north star for everything he does as the Director of Agronomy at Big Cedar Lodge. Whether it's by reducing its footprint or providing habitats for wildlife, Big Cedar Lodge strives to leave everything b…

1
Inspirational Story of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach and Tips for How to Launch Your Own Golf Course Community Center 36:03

1y ago36:03

36:03

The Path seeks to change kids’ lives while introducing them to the game of golf. So is it a community center or a golf course? It’s both! It was launched on the premise that every child deserves the chance to succeed in life and you can hear the motivating story from Dave Andrews, the Director of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach. The Path has b…

1
Inspiring Strategies for Diversity and Inclusion in Golf, Highlighting 5 Key Areas of Commitment: Governance, Education, Workforce, Procurement, and Community 32:24

1+ y ago32:24

32:24

Aiming to reflect the diverse demographics of America in both participants and workforce of the golf industry is Sandy Cross, the Chief People Officer at the PGA of America. Sandy and host John explore groundbreaking programs like PGA Works, aimed at diversifying the golf industry workforce, and initiatives such as Make Golf Your Career and Make Go…

1
How to Save a Golf Course While Preserving the Course Character and Incorporating Golf Sustainability Best Practices 41:16

1+ y ago41:16

41:16

Here to explain how it’s possible to create an environmentally conscious golfing experience while enhancing safety and making the golf course more sustainable is Tom Coyne, Author and Owner of Sullivan County Golf Club, a 180-acre, nine-hole course in the Catskills. Tom takes us through his significant course renovation including sodding the entire…

1
Solutions for New and Existing Golf Courses to Increase Sustainability and Opportunities to get Certified by Audubon International 46:55

1+ y ago46:55

46:55

Calling attention to the evolution of golf sustainability over the past 40 years is Frank LaVardera, the Director of Environmental Programs for Golf at Audubon International. Frank expresses a desire to be remembered as someone who cared deeply about the environment and fostered a user-friendly and collaborative approach in the golf industry. Durin…

1
Programs Dedicated to Golf Sustainability and Promoting a Positive Environmental Impact by Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) 44:23

1+ y ago44:23

44:23

Opportunities for more golf sustainability are presented by Kevin Sunderman, the Chief Operating Officer of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Kevin chats with host John about the journey to a greener, more sustainable future for the golf industry. From his early days as a golf enthusiast in rural Ohio to his current in…

1
How Off-Course Golf is Redefining the Sport, Such as Driving Ranges, Top Golf, and Other Golf Entertainment Facilities 46:57

1+ y ago46:57

46:57

Exploring the world of off-course golf and its profound impact on the golf industry is Greg Nathan, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Golf Foundation (NGF). Greg explains the various facets of off-course golf, encompassing driving ranges, the exhilarating world of golf entertainment exemplified by Topgolf, and the cutting-ed…

1
Guidance for Customized Environmental Management Plans Because Golf Sustainability is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Approach 56:36

1+ y ago56:36

56:36

The challenges of sustainability in golf, the importance of site selection for new courses, and the need for customized environmental management plans are just some of the things Ron Dodson, a biologist and author, talks about in this episode. The episode focuses on the significance of water conservation in the golf industry, highlighting the role …

1
Balancing Aesthetics with Golf Sustainability, Challenges of Meeting Golfer Expectations While Pursuing Sustainability Goals at Carnoustie Golf Links (Scotland) 31:55

1+ y ago31:55

31:55

Did you know that “Director of Sustainability” is an important role at golf courses? Craig Boath is the Head of Sustainability at Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland and in addition to sharing his career journey in the industry, he reveals all of Carnoustie Golf Links’ sustainability efforts. Craig emphasizes the importance of data collection and mea…

1
How to Make Golf More Accessible for People with Disabilities and the National Alliance for Accessible Golf’s Mission to Promoting Accessibility in Golf 33:42

1+ y ago33:42

33:42

Providing actionable steps for improving accessibility on golf courses is Dave Barton, the executive director of the National Alliance for Accessible Golf. Dave’s dedication to promoting accessibility in golf shines through in this conversation, demonstrating the positive impact that can result from proactive efforts in this area. Dave includes pra…

1
2025 Open Host in Ireland Focuses on Golf Sustainability, From Solar Panels and Lithium-Powered Equipment to Biofuels and Carbon Neutrality Goals 43:32

1+ y ago43:32

43:32

Even world-class golf courses like Royal Portrush prepare for major championships while keeping sustainability in mind. Here to give you the inside scoop is Graeme Beatt, the Course Manager at Royal Portrush Golf Course in Ireland. Graeme outlines the sustainability initiatives leading the golf course transformation before hosting the 153rd Open in…

1
How to Implement a Sustainable Golf Course Design Including Tips on Environmental, Social, and Economic Sustainability and Best Golf Sustainability Practices 1:15:53

1+ y ago1:15:53

1:15:53

Explaining how golf courses can be sustainable and have beautiful designs is a leading global authority on sustainable golf course design, Jason Straka, principal of Fry / Straka Global Golf Course Design. Sustainable golf course design strives to create a course that is good for the environment, welcoming to the community, and financially sound fo…

1
What is Golf Sustainability and What is the Environmental Impact of Golf? Guiding Principles and Values Golfers and Leaders in the Sport Need to Know 11:55

1+ y ago11:55

11:55

Are you passionate about golf and want to help build a world where the sport lives on long-term? Then you need to know what golf sustainability is because environmental responsibility, social inclusiveness, and economic viability are essential for the industry's future. Here to explain golf sustainability is Golf Sustainability’s host John Failla, …

1
A Team You Can Count On, Ep #6 30:07

2+ y ago30:07

30:07

The Race to Net-Zero podcast is a six-episode series featuring conversations with energy industry experts and businesses committed to net-zero carbon emissions. In this season’s final episode, host John Failla introduces Scott Hart, Head of Sales for NRG Business. They discuss the state of net-zero, the future of the journey, and the importance of …

1
Choosing action: NRG's journey to net zero, Ep #5 31:46

2+ y ago31:46

31:46

The Race to Net-Zero podcast is a six-episode series featuring conversations with energy experts and businesses who have committed to net-zero carbon emissions. In this episode, host John Failla introduces Jeanne-Mey Sun, Vice President of Sustainability at NRG Energy. They discuss the depth of NRG’s work in sustainability, as evidenced by NRG’s co…

1
It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon: Challenges to net-zero, Ep #4 35:31

2+ y ago35:31

35:31

The Race to Net Zero podcast is a six-episode series featuring conversations with energy experts and businesses who have committed to net-zero carbon emissions. In this episode, host John Failla introduces Kevin Arritt, Director of Renewable Strategy and Advisory for NRG, and Greg Kandankulam, Director of Sustainability Advisory for NRG. They discu…

1
Making your move: The evolution of renewable energy, with Chris Pennington and Tracy Ross, Ep #3 39:59

2+ y ago39:59

39:59

The Race to Net Zero podcast is a special, six-episode series centered around your net-zero journey. Host John Failla introduces Chris Pennington, Director of Energy and Sustainability at Iron Mountain Data Centers, and Tracy Ross, Vice President of Sales, West Region at NRG Energy as they share how the renewable energy market is shifting with the …

1
Outlining your journey: Houston's landmark Climate Action Plan, with Priya Zachariah, Ep #2 42:05

2+ y ago42:05

42:05

The Race to Net-Zero podcast is a six-episode series featuring conversations with energy experts and representatives from businesses that have committed to net-zero carbon emissions. In this episode, host John Failla sits down with Priya Zachariah, Chief Resilience and Sustainability Officer for the City of Houston, and Greg Kandankulam, Director o…

1
The starting point: Key drivers of the net-zero movement with Lynda Clemmons, Ep #1 31:06

2+ y ago31:06

31:06

NRG Energy and Smart Energy Decisions are pleased to bring you a new educational project, The Race to Net Zero podcast, a six-episode series centered around the journey to net-zero for businesses like yours. This premiere episode features host John Failla from Smart Energy Decision and Lynda Clemmons, Vice President of Sustainable Solutions at NRG …

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