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Top TakeawaysBeing selected for the Bernhard Delegation was a life-changing professional milestone — delegates spoke to the honor, the effort required to be chosen, and the deep meaning behind their selection.The delegation fostered a unique bond among participants — it felt like a family, and the relationships formed over the course of the week were authentic, lasting, and filled with mutual respect and camaraderie.BTME and the BIGGA show provided world-class education and inspiration — delegates gained new perspectives and strategies that elevated their understanding of turf management on a global scale.The site visits were unforgettable and deeply impactful — interactions with industry leaders at elite venues (like Moortown, Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool, Wallasey, and Manchester City) offered real-world insights and inspiration.This experience reinforced how much greenkeepers across the world have in common — despite different climates and resources, there’s a shared professional brother- and sisterhood rooted in pride, excellence, and growth.Bernhard as a company went above and beyond — delegates felt appreciated, welcomed, and supported throughout, and came away with a deep respect for the brand and its people.The experience promoted both personal and professional growth — each delegate left changed, with fresh ideas, deeper confidence, and motivation to give back to the profession.Future delegates should absolutely apply for the 2027 opportunity — the panel highly recommends giving it everything you've got, because it’s that meaningful of an experience.
Chapters and Timestamps
Chapter 1: Podcast Introduction (0:00)
Brent introduces the podcast panel and sets the tone for the episode, featuring delegates Stephen Nixon, Shelia Finney, Clay Payne, Carol Turner, and Matt Gourlay. The group checks on Mr. Stephen Bernhard and begins reflecting on their shared experience.
Chapter 2: First Impressions and Experiences (3:20)
The delegation discusses early expectations, relationship building, and prior experiences with BTME or other international programs. Insights are shared from both the administrative and delegate perspectives.
Chapter 3: How the North American Bernhard Delegation Came to Be (10:45)
Stephen Nixon outlines how Bernhard relaunched its U.S. delegation. Shelia Finney reflects on the strong relationship between GCSAA and Bernhard. The group highlights the incredible chemistry among this year’s delegates and how the selection process came together.
Chapter 4: Moments and Memories (15:05)
The panel shares personal highlights from the trip. Clay talks about embracing the fun side of the experience, Carol speaks to the bond the group developed, and Matt recalls humorous and unforgettable moments.
Chapter 5: Surprising Moments (19:15)
From turf practices to cultural differences, the delegation reflects on unexpected takeaways. Carol compares the intimacy of BTME with the scale of GCSAA, while Matt speaks about managing turf with fewer products and the value of Bernhard Academy. A standout moment: a powerful discussion at the R&A with Daniel Lightfoot.
Chapter 6: The Site Visits and Takeaways (29:15)
The group shares takeaways from visits to iconic venues including Moortown, Manchester City, Royal Liverpool, Royal Birkdale, and Wallasey. Delegates reflect on the wisdom, humility, and philosophies of top managers like John Mcloughlin, Sean McLean, James Bledge, John Ledwidge, and Steven Robinson.
Chapter 7: Advice to Future Delegates and Applicants (37:20)
Delegates offer thoughtful advice for future applicants—be yourself, prepare well, take it all in, and stay curious. Practical tips are mixed with meaningful encouragement for those considering applying in 2026.
Chapter 8: Master Greenkeeper Moment Reflection (48:00)
Matt Gourlay turns the tables on Brent to ask about his recent Master Greenkeeper achievement. Brent shares what the milestone meant to him and how the journey of growth over the past few years shaped the moment.
Chapter 9: Final Thoughts, Reflections, and Thank You's (53:43)
The episode wraps with gratitude and emotional reflections. The group is encouraged to stay connected, and each delegate shares heartfelt thanks for the experience and for one another.
This episode offers a powerful blend of personal reflection and professional growth, making it a must-listen for turf professionals, aspiring delegates, and anyone passionate about global collaboration, leadership, and the shared experience of those who care for the world’s finest playing surfaces.
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Top Takeaways:The Power of Great Mentors – Learning from experienced leaders shapes agronomic philosophies, but true success comes from adapting those lessons into one’s own approach.Creativity & Organization in Agronomy – The best solutions emerge when structured problem-solving meets innovative thinking.Developing Soft Skills for Leadership – Professionalism, communication, and structure are critical and teachable skills for career growth.Seeing the Golf Course Holistically – Balancing ground-level details with a broad strategic vision leads to superior agronomic decisions.Building a Legacy Through Mentorship – Success isn’t just about personal achievements; it’s about guiding and developing the next generation of leaders.Chapters & Timestamps:Chapter 1: Podcast Introduction (0:00)
Brent and Mitchell introduce the episode, preview the themes of mentorship and agronomy, and set the stage for their guest.
Chapter 2: Introduction of Matt Weitz (2:30)Matt shares his background, early career experiences, and how he got started in golf course maintenance.
Chapter 3: Russ Myers & Card Sound Golf Club (6:00)Matt discusses how Russ’s laid-back yet challenging approach encouraged him to think critically and always ask "why."
Chapter 4: Winged Foot & Eric Greytok (7:40)Lessons from Eric Greytok on intensity, efficiency, and maintaining high agronomic standards.
Chapter 5: Victoria National & Dan Meersman (11:05)Matt shares how working with Dan Meersman developed his business acumen, communication skills, and ability to see the game from a golfer’s perspective.
Chapter 6: Creative Agronomics & Innovative Solutions (15:53)How learning from failure helped Matt develop unique agronomic strategies and structured processes.
Chapter 7: Superintendent at Victoria National (18:30)Navigating the challenges of Victoria National’s extreme conditions and how those experiences shaped his career.
Chapter 8: Team Success at Victoria National (22:20)Reflections on mentoring staff through tough summers and how that experience prepared them for future success.
Chapter 9: Director of Agronomy at Vaquero Club (27:45)Matt’s decision to join Vaquero Club, the culture of the membership, and why he felt inspired to take on the role.
Chapter 10: Working with Andrew Green (30:56)The story behind his collaboration with architect Andrew Green and the innovative renovation at Vaquero.
Chapter 11: Advice & Relationships in the Industry (36:48)How Matt taps into different experts and relationships to refine his agronomic approach.
Chapter 12: What Has Changed? (38:53)Adapting to technological advancements, workforce shifts, and maintaining high standards in an evolving industry.
Chapter 13: Matt Away from the Golf Course (42:43)A look into Matt’s personal life, family, and his passion for college football.
Chapter 14: Two Truths & A Lie + Fastest Two Minutes (45:46)A fun segment featuring a quick game and rapid-fire Q&A.
Chapter 15: Show Wrap-Up & Final Thoughts (51:32)Matt discusses his future at Vaquero, his proudest moments, and what’s next. Brent and Mitchell preview the next episode.
This episode blends personal storytelling with professional insights, making it a valuable listen for anyone in the turfgrass industry or those passionate about leadership, mentorship, and agronomy. -
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Episode Title: "Sami Strutt of the Bernhard Academy"
Episode Highlights:
Meet Sami Strutt:Sami shares her incredible career in the UK turf management and education industry.Her transition from BIGGA (British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association) to leading the Bernhard Academy.Reflections on her journey from office junior to industry leader.Inside BTME:Learn about BTME, the premier turf management trade show in Harrogate, UK.How it compares to international counterparts like the GCSAA National Show.The Bernhard Academy Vision:Founded in 2019 with a mission to enhance professional development in turf management.Offers pathways in leadership, technical equipment management, and basic agronomy.The Bernhard Delegation and its Beginnings:The concept of the original DelegationsThe growth and prestige of the DelegationHow it came to be a part of GCSAA with Links to SuccessLeadership and Mental Health in Turf Management:
The growing importance of leadership and mental health training in the industry.Sammy's insights into how Bernhard Academy addresses these evolving needs.Sammy's Origin Story and Personal Insights:Her unexpected start in the turf industry and passion for education.Fun moments from her career, including a surprising connection with Air Force One.Personal anecdotes about her travels and life with her husband, Lee.Future Goals for the Bernhard Academy:The Academy's focus on providing global education and creating impactful learning experiences.Innovative initiatives like partnerships with Oakmont and participation in international trade shows.Key Takeaways:
Passion and Purpose: Sami exemplifies how aligning personal passion with professional goals can create lasting impact.Inclusive Industry: The turf industry fosters a global community bound by shared goals and mutual respect.Adapting Education: Leadership, mental health, and technical training are as vital as agronomy skills for future professionals. -
Podcast Episode Breakdown
0:00 - 2:46 – Introduction to the podcast, its themes (leadership, culture, career growth), and guest Justin Sims, Director of Facilities and Maintenance at The Alotian Club.
2:46 - 7:21 – Justin’s early career journey, from outdoor work to switching majors at Murray State and landing his first internships.
7:21 - 14:41 – Learning from mentor Pat Finlen at The Olympic Club, early lessons in leadership, and balancing work with life.
14:41 - 20:35 – Time at Augusta National under Marsh Benson and Brad Owen, lessons in large-scale management, and personal leadership philosophies.
20:35 - 25:17 – Building the departmental structure at The Alotian Club and its unique management approach.
25:17 - 33:25 – Leadership insights from John Wooden’s Pyramid, embracing mistakes, and treating people with care and respect.
33:25 - 37:45 – Hiring practices focused on soft skills and fostering a strong workplace culture.
37:45 - 48:27 – Life outside work: family, coaching, college basketball, and investing.
48:27 - 57:00 – Fun segment: "Two Truths and a Lie" and "The Fastest Two Minutes in Podcasting."
57:00 - 59:48 – Closing thoughts, gratitude for Justin’s time, and a preview of the next episode.
Three Key TakeawaysDiverse experiences and mentorship can shape your career at every stage.Leadership is a learned skill—seek training, embrace mistakes, and develop an authentic style.Strong culture comes from accountability, showing genuine care, and leading by example. -
In this episode, I discuss both my origin story and the origin of this podcast. I go into to details in the first 8 minutes about what we are, what we are NOT, and why I think this podcast will be different.
In the last 8 minutes, I discuss my own career. I talk about my trials and tribulations and how they led me here. The origin story.
Finally, in the end, I discuss our first two guests, and give my list of thank you's!
