• Navigating Crisis With Confidence: Expert Strategies for Club Managers
    Sep 5 2024

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    This episode of The GIG Podcast features an enlightening discussion with Laurie Martin, also known as "Trauma Mumma," who brings over three decades of experience in risk deterrence and crisis/trauma education to the table. With a history of responding to major global crises like 9/11 and the Oklahoma City bombing, Laurie offers profound insights into the necessity of crisis preparedness in the club industry. Host James Cronk and Laurie delve into practical strategies for building emotional resilience and managing unexpected events effectively within club settings.

    Listeners will learn the importance of proactive crisis management and the benefits of establishing robust support systems for club employees and members. The conversation covers real-life crisis responses and the crucial steps in fostering a culture of safety and preparedness that can significantly enhance operational stability and emotional well-being in clubs.

    Benefits of Listening

    By listening to this episode, club owners, operators, and their teams will benefit by learning:

    - Advanced Crisis Management Techniques: Laurie shares from her extensive experience dealing with high-stakes environments, providing listeners with advanced skills in crisis readiness.

    - Emotional Resilience Training: Insights into fostering emotional strength essential for leadership and team effectiveness, especially during crises.

    - Real-world Applications: Examples of crisis management from Laurie's own experiences, offering relatable and actionable guidance for club managers.

    - Safety and Support Systems: Strategies to enhance the safety and emotional support structures within clubs, which are crucial for handling both minor incidents and major emergencies.

    This episode is a must-listen for those looking to improve their ability to handle crises and build a more resilient club environment.

    To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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    44 mins
  • Driving Revenue - How Noteefy is Revolutionizing Tee Time Reservations
    Jul 29 2024

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    In this episode of The GIG Podcast, James Cronk interviews Jake Gordon, CEO & Co-Founder of Noteefy, a groundbreaking tee time-reservation and booking platform designed to optimize revenue for golf course operators. The discussion explores Jake's path from discovering his passion for golf as an adult to co-founding Noteefy, a company that has swiftly grown since its inception.

    We also get into Jake's journey as an entrepreneur, highlighting his experiences and insights entering into the golf industry over the past two years. The conversation covers a range of topics, from personal growth and leadership to the challenges and innovations shaping the future of the industry.

    Key Discussion Points:

    1. Discovering and Leveraging Strengths: Jake emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and leveraging one's strengths in both you personal and professional life. He shares anecdotes about how recognizing his strengths has helped him navigate the entrepreneurial landscape.

    2. Mentorship and Continuous Learning: The value of mentorship and learning from others is a recurring theme. Jake discusses how guidance from experienced professionals has influenced his career and the growth of Noteefy.

    3. Innovation and Industry Adaptation: The conversation touches on the need for innovation in the golf industry, particularly in adapting to new technologies and changing consumer expectations. Jake talks about how Noteefy is contributing to these changes by providing solutions that enhance communication and customer engagement.

    4. Facing and Overcoming Challenges: Jake candidly discusses the challenges he has faced in building a startup and how resilience and adaptability have been crucial in overcoming obstacles. He provides practical advice for business professionals in any industry facing similar challenges.

    5. Future Trends in the Golf Industry: The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on the future of the golf industry. Jake shares his thoughts on emerging trends and how golf courses and businesses can prepare for the evolving landscape.

    Listeners will gain valuable insights into the entrepreneurial journey, particularly within the golf industry. They will learn about the importance of self-awareness, mentorship, and innovation in achieving success. Jake's experiences and practical advice offer a roadmap for navigating the challenges of building a business, making this episode particularly valuable for entrepreneurs and industry professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve.

    To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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    51 mins
  • Navigating the New Era Of Golf Marketing
    Jul 18 2024

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    In this insightful episode of The GIG Podcast, we sit down with James Wilkinson, the innovative Founder and Managing Director of Albatross Digital, to explore the transformative changes in golf marketing that are currently happening around us. As the golf industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for club owners and operators. This episode delves into the cutting-edge strategies and technologies reshaping how golf clubs engage with members and attract new audiences.

    Listeners will gain a deep understanding of how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing marketing tactics, from personalized member experiences to data-driven decision-making. James shares his expertise on leveraging AI to enhance customer engagement and streamline marketing efforts, ensuring clubs can maximize their outreach and retention rates.

    The discussion also highlights the significant impact and importance of high-quality content creation in the digital age. James emphasizes the power of cinematic content, drone footage, and social media campaigns in capturing the essence of a golf club's unique offerings. He provides practical tips on how clubs can differentiate themselves in a competitive market by producing compelling visual content that resonates with both current and prospective members.

    By tuning in, golf club managers and owners will discover actionable strategies to navigate the post-COVID landscape, where the demand for outdoor activities has surged. James discusses the lessons learned during the pandemic and how clubs can capitalize on the renewed interest in golf. From optimizing paid social ads to understanding the importance of consistent branding, this episode equips listeners with the tools needed to thrive in today's dynamic market.

    Join us for "Navigating the New Era of Golf Marketing" and uncover the secrets to elevating your club's marketing game. Whether you're looking to attract new members, retain existing ones, or simply stay ahead of industry trends, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice that will benefit any golf club manager or owner.

    To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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    49 mins
  • Earn 6 Figures Teaching Golf
    Apr 29 2024

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    Are you ready for a mind-blowing revelation? The unexpected truth about boosting your golf coaching business's profitability and efficiency will leave you in awe. Get ready to discover a game-changing approach that's surprisingly effective in increasing your income and the satisfaction of your students. Curious to know more? Tune in for some eye-opening insights that will revolutionize your golf coaching career.

    Christofer Nassil, a golf enthusiast and seasoned business coach, has made significant strides in the golf coaching industry with his innovative model for helping golf instructors scale their business and make more money. Originating from the north of Sweden and drawing on his background in coaching salespeople, Christofer has implemented a unique sales strategy and system within the golf coaching realm that’s generating real results for golf professionals. Through his Golf Coach Academy online learning platform, Christofer has introduced a pioneering approach, enabling golf coaches to emphasize the “sale of scores” to clients, resulting in improved profitability and elevated value for their students. His unconventional methods have positioned him as a notable figure in the industry in Europe, sought after for his expertise and achievements in enhancing the business of golf coaching.

    In this episode, you will learn about:

    • Mastering a New Business Model for Golf Coaches: Learn how to maximize your profitability and efficiency as a golf instructor, taking your coaching career to the next level.
    • Unlocking Secrets to Improving Golf Scores without Changing Swing: Discover innovative techniques to help your clients achieve better scores on the course, without needing to overhaul their swing mechanics.
    • Golf Coach Academy Success Stories: Hear inspiring stories of golf coaches who have achieved remarkable success and learn how you can apply their strategies to elevate your own coaching journey.
    • Engaging Students During Golf Lessons: Explore effective ways to captivate and motivate your students during golf lessons, creating a more enriching and satisfying experience for both you and your students.
    • Embracing the Head Coach Method in Golf Instruction: Uncover the benefits of adopting a head coach approach in your golf instruction, and how it can lead to increased income and client satisfaction.

    The resources mentioned in this episode are:

    • Search for Golf Coach Academy online to access the e-learning platform and business support community for golf instructors. The platform offers access to all the information, trainings, and books for a low monthly fee, with the option to cancel anytime.
    • Find the book Shoot Lower Scores on Amazon, which serves as a handbook for golf coaches to use in their coaching methods. The book provides 25 steps to shooting lower scores, focusing on strategic improvements rather than swinging technique.
    • Follow Christofer on social media for updates and insights into his coaching methods and business support for golf professionals and clubs. Direct message him for any questions or inquiries.
    • Reach out to Christofer for personalized support and guidance in implementing the head coach method and improving the business model for golf coaching. He offers direct messaging and video support to assist with any queries or challenges.
    • Consider joining the Golf Coach Academy platform to gain access to valuable resources, support, and guidance for golf clubs and professionals. The platform aims to fill the void in the golf coaching community and help clubs become

    To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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    38 mins
  • Secrets to Crisis-Proof Your Golf Club
    Feb 1 2024

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    Do you want to revolutionize the way crisis management is handled in your club and improve communication? Get ready to uncover solutions that will enhance crisis management and communication within your club. Get ready to amplify your crisis management abilities and effectively communicate within your club.

    Our special guest is Corey Saban.

    Corey Saban is an Emmy-nominated journalist and crisis management expert with years of experience in the club industry. As the founder of CS Media Works, Corey focuses on providing leadership and communication guidance to clubs, emphasizing the significance of crisis management, effective communication, and marketing plans. With his real-world expertise and insightful approach, Corey brings a wealth of practical knowledge to help club managers and leaders navigate challenging situations and enhance their crisis management abilities. His engaging storytelling and practical strategies ensure that clubs are well-prepared to handle various crisis situations with confidence and clarity.

    In this episode, you will be able to:

    • Understand crisis management techniques for clubs and stay prepared for any situation.
    • Learn how to build strong relationships with the media to effectively communicate your club's message.
    • Find out how to navigate challenging scenarios confidently as a club manager and maintain a positive environment.
    • Recognize how to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within your club through specialized training.
    • Better harness the power of storytelling to elevate your club's brand and engage members effectively.

    Mastering Crisis Management in Clubs

    Corey Saban’s insights exemplify the crucial role of proactive crisis planning in the club industry. Less than ten percent of clubs have a comprehensive crisis management strategy, often neglecting potential crises such as theft or harassment. Corey’s key advice involves creating crisis teams, preparing holding statements for media inquiries, and recognizing the significance of effective communication in shaping the narrative during a crisis.

    The resources mentioned in this episode are:

    • Connect with Corey Saban on LinkedIn by searching for his name and sending him a message expressing your interest in his services or expertise.
    • Visit Corey Saban's website, csmediaworks.com, to learn more about his services and to reach out to him via email or by filling out a contact form.
    • Consider reaching out to Corey Saban for a consultation or to discuss your specific challenges in the areas of crisis management, storytelling, communication, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
    • Explore the possibility of having Corey Saban as a speaker for your event or organization by contacting him through his website or LinkedIn.
    • Take advantage of the opportunity to receive free advice from Corey Saban by initiating a conversation with him about your business needs and challenges.

    To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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    40 mins
  • Addressing Golf's Diversity and Accessibility Barriers
    Dec 14 2023

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    Join us as we delve into the world of golf with Nacho Giraldo, a philanthropist and advocate for Park Golf. Park Golf is an exciting initiative to bring the game of golf to new generations of young golfers. Park Golf will give kids an opportunity to experience the thrill of golf by breaking the barriers of access, cost, time, and intimidation.

    On this episode of the GIG Podcast, discover the barriers to golf participation and the innovative solutions needed, but be prepared for a shocking revelation that leaves the future of the game in uncertainty. Tune in and brace yourself for the unexpected twist in the world of golf.

    Our special guest is Nacho Giraldo.

    Nacho Giraldo, a passionate advocate for expanding golf's accessibility, brings a unique perspective to the industry. Hailing from Colombia, his early experiences with golf were limited by the sport's elitist nature. His dedication to breaking down participation barriers led him to champion initiatives like Park Golf, reflecting his commitment to making the game more inclusive. With a background encompassing philanthropy, investing, and strategic planning, Nacho's multifaceted approach offers an insightful contribution to the dialogue surrounding golf's growth and diversification.

    “Where are those people coming from in 30 years? Make sure you're getting them today”. - Nacho Giraldo

    In this episode, you will be able to:

    • Overcome Golf Participation Barriers: Unlock the secrets to making golf more accessible for everyone.
    • Embrace Park Golf as an Inclusive Solution: Discover the innovative approach to making golf enjoyable for all.
    • Emphasize Importance of Diversity in Golf: Explore the benefits of a diverse and inclusive golfing community.
    • Shape the Future of Golf and Preserve the Game: Uncover the strategies to ensure the longevity and relevance of golf.
    • Addressing the Five Barriers to Golf Participation: Learn how to tackle the obstacles preventing broader golf engagement.

    Overcoming Golf Participation Barriers


    The path to widespread golf participation demands a focus on breaking down barriers. This involves addressing issues of access, intimidation, diversity, time commitment, and expense. By tailoring solutions to the needs of the target demographic, golf can become a universal sport that appeals to wider, more diverse audiences.

    The resources mentioned in this episode are:

    • Visit park-golf.org to learn more about the Park Golf movement and how it can benefit your local community and the golf industry.
    • Consider donating to support the Park Golf initiative and help bring this innovative and inclusive golf experience to neighborhoods across the continent.
    • Explore ways to break down the barriers to golf participation at your own golf club or facility, such as offering free junior golf programs, creating accessible and welcoming environments for diverse communities, and promoting a positive and inclusive golf experience.
    • Connect with Nacho Giraldo and the Park Golf team to discuss potential partnerships, collaborations, or volunteer opportunities to support the growth of the game and the Park Golf movement.

    To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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    45 mins
  • Breaking Down Barriers: Strategies For Promoting Inclusivity In Golf with Todd Kierstead & Jeremey MacRae
    Jun 16 2023

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    The importance of inclusivity in the golf industry cannot be overstated. Fostering an inclusive environment is not only important when trying to be an employer of choice, but it also helps to create a welcoming atmosphere that allows all individuals to enjoy and participate in the sport. By promoting inclusivity, clubs can inspire positive change and ensure that everyone, regardless of their ability, has an opportunity to connect, learn and grow through the game and business of golf. From Todd Kierstead's and Jeremey MacRae's perspective, inclusivity is the right thing to do for both ethical and practical reasons. Todd, as the Founder of Paragolf Canada, is passionately committed to breaking down barriers for individuals with disabilities in golf, while Jeremey, as a club manager, understands firsthand the benefits of creating an inclusive environment that not only benefits the club, its members, and its employees, but also makes a meaningful impact on the lives of those often marginalized due to their disabilities.

    In this episode of The GIG podcast, host Scott Masse talks with Todd Kierstead and Jeremey MacRae about the importance of inclusivity in the golf industry. Kierstead is the Founder of ParaGolf Canada, an organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity for individuals with disabilities in golf. MacRae is the General Manager/COO at Bayview Golf and Country Club in Toronto.

    “It's about changing the mindset of the individual, of showing them that yes, they can play golf, but it's also now changing the mindset of the industry.” – Todd Kierstead.

    Here's what we cover with Todd & Jeremey on this episode:

    • Explore the growing importance of fostering inclusivity within the golf industry.
    • Delve into the unique obstacles disabled golfers encounter and potential solutions.
    • Be inspired by the triumphant tales of inclusivity breaking barriers in golf.
    • Unearth various initiatives aimed at advancing inclusive practices in golf clubs.
    • Recognize the need for proactive efforts towards establishing inclusive golf environments.

    About Todd Kierstead & Jeremey MacRae


    Meet Todd Kierstead, a passionate PGA member and the driving force behind Paragolf Canada, an organization committed to inspiring golfers of all abilities to reclaim their love for the sport, no matter their unique circumstances. Todd's unwavering dedication to giving a voice to individuals with disabilities is felt throughout the industry, making him a respected advocate for change. Alongside Todd, we are joined by Jeremey MacRae, the esteemed GM/COO of Bayview Golf and Country Club. Jeremey's extensive experience in the private club sector has led him to champion inclusivity in his workplace, making Bayview a shining example of a truly inclusive club.

    On this episode of The GIG Podcast, we'll show you the real impact of inclusivity in the golf industry and how to create a welcoming environment that truly attracts a diverse community of players and team members to your club. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference and elevate your club to new heights of success!

    To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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    55 mins
  • Leading With The Conclusion with Colin Cox
    Feb 13 2023

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    Does any of this feel familiar?

    You’re frustrated from constantly having to repeat yourself and not being understood. You have anxiety from not being able to effectively express your ideas and having them fall on deaf ears. You feel powerlessness from trying different tactics to communicate your message, and not seeing the results you desire.

    In a world of quick gratification, it can be difficult to effectively communicate as a leader. Poor communication can lead to confusion, frustration, and even discord in the workplace. Colin Cox, a leadership coach, knows all too well the importance of effective communication. Having served as COO of Demonware, and having begun work at Electronic Arts by the tender age of 15, Colin has developed a tremendous amount of experience in executive communication.

    On this episode of The GIG Podcast, Colin shares with us his expertise on how to craft effective digital, verbal, and written communication and how to lead with the conclusion in order to capture the attention of your audience. So, if you're looking to improve your leadership communication skills, then this episode is for you!

    "Having a key message and leading with your conclusion are two things that I've observed that help communication be a lot better received." – Colin Cox

    Here's what we cover with Colin Cox in this episode:


    • How Colin’s passion for video games and sports lead to his early career success at just 15 years old.
    • What the importance of the "Bookending" technique is in effective communication.
    • What the power of listening to the "environment” is, and how can it be used to craft a message for an audience.

    About Colin Cox


    Colin Cox is a leadership coach and former COO of Demonware, the online studio for Activision. He has worked in the tech and gaming industry since he was 15 and is an expert in communication, leadership, and executive coaching.

    Colin Cox was a high school dropout who found himself in a government funded program to help troubled teens. Through this program, he managed to get a work placement at Electronic Arts which changed his life. Through his passion for video games, ice hockey, and technology, he developed his interpersonal skills and found himself leading a team at EA by the age of 17. Through this experience, Colin developed key communication skills, such as getting to the point quickly, leading with a conclusion, and bookending. He has since used these skills to gain attention from a panel of judges for a prestigious industry award and to explain complex topics to his audiences. He believes that the most underutilized superpower of communication is actually the skill of listening.

    If you're seeking to achieve precise, articulate communication in your leadership, then don't miss this episode of The GIG Podcast! Be sure to join us as we provide the means for you to accomplish your goal of effective communication. Listen now!

    BONUS! Colin as created a 20% discount code for GIG Nation for his Communicate Like a Pro online course. The code is GIG, and you can manually apply it via the website linked above, or access these direct checkout links with the code applied for USD and CAD buyers.


    To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

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    50 mins