Building The Greenprint: Where We've Been & Where We're Going - Episode 31

Building The Greenprint: Where We've Been & Where We're Going - Episode 31

Leighton steps away from the usual interview format for a short update on The Greenprint, reflecting on how the podcast has evolved since launch and sharing the vision for where it's heading next. From its origins as a personal learning journey into golf course architecture and agronomy, the show has grown into a global platform featuring guests from five continents and a diverse mix of architects, superintendents, greenkeepers and industry experts. The episode also explains the different strands of the podcast, including traditional interviews, The Process by The Greenprint with Thad Layton, agronomy-focused discussions, and the quarterly On The Tee series with Golf Course Architecture magazine. Leighton highlights some standout episodes, previews upcoming guests and projects, and discusses the importance of collaborations with organisations such as the European Institute of Golf Course Architects. Looking ahead, Leighton shares plans to visit more golf courses and construction projects around the world, bringing listeners closer to the people, places and ideas shaping the future of golf course design. He also reflects on recent travels to Toronto and Minneapolis and outlines upcoming visits to Portugal and Australia. Finally, the episode is a heartfelt thank you to listeners, guests and show partners whose support has helped The Greenprint continue to grow. Leighton explains why partnerships with companies such as Toro, Himalayas Golf and Shorehill Golf are built around shared values rather than traditional advertising, before inviting listeners to continue following the journey and help spread the word about the podcast. EPISODES MENTIONED: David McLay Kidd - The Process [https://traffic.libsyn.com/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/The_Process_Episode_3_-_final.mp3] Dana Fry - The Process [https://traffic.libsyn.com/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/The_Process_Episode_4___final.mp3] Cool Season Grass Development [https://traffic.libsyn.com/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/The_Greenprint_ep_30_final.mp3] All episodes [https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-greenprint/id1801777880] Follow us to receive all episodes straight to your podcast feed Get in touch: *]: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:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ [https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/] The Greenprint - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true] www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com [golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com] A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information [https://www.toro.com/en/golf?srsltid=AfmBOoq9use7cwaA5X-_2axzv1FewNRkVLhPglMN0n_9B3ndN_dDf1dt] Himalayas Golf - https://himalayasgolf.com/ [https://himalayasgolf.com/] Shorehill Golf - https://sh-golf.com/ [https://sh-golf.com/] Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk [https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk] Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Mike Clayton - The Process by The Greenprint - Episode 8

In this episode of The Process by The Greenprint, Leighton Walker and Thad Layton are joined by renowned Australian golf course architect Mike Clayton for a wide-ranging discussion on the principles he feels underpin great golf course architecture. Drawing on decades as both a tour professional and architect, Mike explains why the best courses ask golfers interesting questions rather than simply demanding perfect execution, and how strategic design creates a much more enjoyable game. The conversation explores the lasting influence of iconic courses such as The Old Course, Royal Melbourne Golf Club and Kingston Heath Golf Club. Mike discusses why angles into greens remain fundamental to good design, how the Melbourne Sandbelt shaped his architectural philosophy, and why many modern courses rely too heavily on bunkers when contour, short grass and strategic options often create far more engaging golf. Mike also reflects on his career journey from touring professional to architect, the partnerships that have defined his work, and the collaborative process behind projects including Barnbougle Dunes, Seven Mile Beach and restorations at some of Australia's and Europe's most respected golf clubs. He shares practical insights into restoring classic courses, designing new greens that fit seamlessly within existing layouts, and why spending time on-site throughout construction is essential to creating great golf. Along the way, the discussion covers tree management, course restoration, the value of 19th holes for maintenance flexibility, the realities of working with golf club committees, and why aspiring architects - and even tour professionals considering design - must immerse themselves fully in the craft rather than simply lending their name to a project. It's an insightful conversation about architecture, strategy, collaboration and the enduring qualities that make golf courses memorable for generations. https://www.claytongolf.com.au/ [https://www.claytongolf.com.au/] https://www.cdpgolf.com/ *]: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:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ [https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/] https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com [golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com] Check out Thad: https://thadlaytondesign.com/ [https://thadlaytondesign.com/] A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information [https://www.toro.com/en/golf?srsltid=AfmBOoq9use7cwaA5X-_2axzv1FewNRkVLhPglMN0n_9B3ndN_dDf1dt] Shorehill Golf - https://sh-golf.com/ [https://sh-golf.com/] Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk [https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk] Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Brett Hochstein - The Process by The Greenprint - Episode 7

In this episode of The Process by The Greenprint, golf course architect and shaper Brett Hochstein joins hosts Leighton Walker and Thad Layton for a deep conversation on golf architecture, shaping philosophy, and the importance of reading the land. Brett reflects on discovering golf architecture at just four years old and shares how his early shaping work alongside architects like Tom Doak helped form his design instincts and understanding of construction. A major theme throughout the discussion is site-specific design and the idea that golf courses should feel naturally connected to their environment. Brett explains how geology, erosion, wind, vegetation, and local history all influence his approach to shaping and strategy. The conversation explores everything from the sand dunes of Nebraska to the rugged common land courses of England, including places like Painswick Golf Club and Royal Worlington & Newmarket Golf Club, which Brett sees as some of golf's purest and most authentic experiences. The episode also dives into Brett's restoration work at courses including Pasatiempo Golf Club, Hadley Wood Golf Club, and Lake Merced Golf Club. He shares the painstaking process of rebuilding lost Alister MacKenzie features from historic photographs, along with the challenge of balancing artistry, construction efficiency, and historical accuracy. Brett and Thad also discuss current architectural trends, from naturalistic design to the renewed interest in bold early Golden Age shaping and contour-driven strategy. Beyond architecture, the conversation becomes surprisingly personal as Brett opens up about the pressures of the industry and the value of therapy and personal growth in building confidence and resilience. The episode closes with a quick-fire discussion on design features ranging from blind shots and centerline hazards to fall-away greens and revetted bunkers, offering a revealing look into Brett's architectural preferences and philosophy. https://www.hochsteindesign.com/ [https://www.hochsteindesign.com/] *]: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:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ [https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/] https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com [golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com] A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information [https://www.toro.com/en/golf?srsltid=AfmBOoq9use7cwaA5X-_2axzv1FewNRkVLhPglMN0n_9B3ndN_dDf1dt] Himalayas Golf - https://himalayasgolf.com/ [https://himalayasgolf.com/] Shorehill Golf - https://sh-golf.com/ [https://sh-golf.com/] Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk [https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk] Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Cool Season Grass Development with PGG Wrightson & Scott Roberts - The Greenprint 30

It's an agronomy based episode of The Greenprint, and Leighton Walker is joined by Scott Roberts, Course Manager at Hindhead Golf Club in the UK, alongside Mark Shaw and Will Bowden from PGG Wrightson Seeds in New Zealand. Together they explore the fascinating world of cool-season turfgrasses, uncovering the science, research and long-term planning that underpin the playing surfaces golfers often take for granted. There's also a strong emphasis on how these grasses effect playability of Golf Courses The conversation begins with an introduction to PGG Wrightson Seeds and their role within DLF, one of the world's largest seed companies. Mark and Will explain how New Zealand has become a global centre for turfgrass breeding, particularly for colonial browntop, and discuss how genetics collected from golf courses and natural environments are used to develop new cultivars capable of meeting the demands of modern golf. Scott shares his journey through the greenkeeping profession, including his involvement in the complete redevelopment of Basingstoke Golf Club before moving to Hindhead. His experience provides valuable insight into the practical challenges of selecting grass species during construction projects and balancing performance, maintenance requirements and golfer expectations. A major theme throughout the episode is the complexity of turfgrass breeding. Mark and Will explain that developing a new cultivar can take more than a decade, from identifying promising parent plants and carrying out controlled crosses through to years of evaluation, seed multiplication and commercial production. They discuss the constant challenge of improving turf quality while simultaneously increasing resilience to drought, disease and wear. The group also examines the differences between creeping bentgrass, colonial browntop and fine fescues, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of each species. While creeping bentgrass offers exceptional playing quality and recovery, browntop and fescues often require fewer inputs and can provide greater sustainability in the right environment. The discussion highlights that there is rarely a universal solution, with successful grass selection depending heavily on climate, soil conditions, maintenance budgets and the overall vision for the golf course. Sustainability features heavily in the conversation as the panel explores the impact of declining pesticide availability, increasing pressure on water resources and changing climatic conditions. The guests explain how breeding programmes are increasingly focused on disease resistance and drought tolerance, helping golf courses adapt to future challenges while maintaining acceptable standards of play. They also discuss examples from Europe and New Zealand where golf courses are operating with significantly reduced chemical inputs, providing a glimpse into the future direction of turf management. The episode concludes with a discussion around the importance of collaboration between breeders, architects, agronomists and course managers. Through examples including Tara Iti, Te Arai Links, Jack's Point and Royal Melbourne, the guests demonstrate how early involvement in the design process can help ensure the right grass species and cultivars are selected to deliver both exceptional playing conditions and long-term sustainability. This episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of turfgrass development and highlights the crucial role that genetics will play in shaping the future of golf course management. It also sets the stage for the next instalment in the series, which will focus on warm-season grasses, including Bermuda and Zoysia, and their growing relevance in an increasingly unpredictable climate. Hindhead Golf Club [https://www.hindheadgolfclub.co.uk/] PGG Wrightson [https://pggwrightsonturf.com/nz] Will Bowden [https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-bowden-38aa4472/] Mark Shaw [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-shaw-b2bb4350/] Get in touch: *]: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:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ [https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/] The Greenprint - LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true] www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com [golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com] A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information [https://www.toro.com/en/golf?srsltid=AfmBOoq9use7cwaA5X-_2axzv1FewNRkVLhPglMN0n_9B3ndN_dDf1dt] Himalayas Golf - https://himalayasgolf.com/ [https://himalayasgolf.com/] Shorehill Golf - https://sh-golf.com/ [https://sh-golf.com/] Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk [https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk] Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

Bruce Charlton - The Process by The Greenprint Episode 6

In this episode of The Process by The Greenprint, Leighton and Thad sit down with legendary golf course architect Bruce Charlton of Robert Trent Jones II to explore the design philosophies and creative process he has developed over more than 40 years in the industry. Bruce reflects on his early fascination with golf course design - including sketching golf holes during church services, and explains how that passion evolved into a career shaping courses around the world. The conversation dives into his instinctive approach to routing, why he prefers to "follow the water," and how listening to the natural movement of the land remains central to his philosophy. Leighton and Thad also discuss Bruce's experiences working alongside Bobby Jones Jr., the creative freedom and trust he has been given throughout his career, and the incredible variety found across the courses he has designed. Bruce shares insight into how golf architecture has evolved over the decades, particularly when revisiting courses originally built 30 or 40 years ago and modernising them for today's game while respecting their original character. The conversation also touches on the realities of balancing an extensive global career with family life, and how Bruce has managed the demands of constant travel and long-term projects while maintaining perspective away from the golf course. A thoughtful and engaging conversation with one of the most respected figures in golf course architecture. https://www.rtj2.com/ [https://www.rtj2.com/] *]: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:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:89ffc765-c9c8-489f-8418-9045269ae7cc-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> Reach out to Thad - https://thadlaytondesign.com/ [https://thadlaytondesign.com/] https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ [https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/] https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com [golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com] A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Click here for more information [https://www.toro.com/en/golf?srsltid=AfmBOoq9use7cwaA5X-_2axzv1FewNRkVLhPglMN0n_9B3ndN_dDf1dt] Himalayas Golf - https://himalayasgolf.com/ [https://himalayasgolf.com/] Shorehill Golf - https://sh-golf.com/ [https://sh-golf.com/] Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk [https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk] Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!