The Greenprint

“Exploring the art, science, and business of golf course design, sustainability, and agronomy” By focusing on expert insights and a learning journey, the show is designed to provide both golf enthusiasts and industry stakeholders with a deeper understanding of the complexities behind golf course creation and maintenance Leighton & fellow hosts will blend of interviews with experts, hands-on exploration of golf course practices, and an accessible storytelling style, "The Greenprint" could become a key resource for anyone interested in the world of golf course design, maintenance and preservation.

The Process by The Greenprint - Brian Curley - Ep 9 08/04/2026

The Process by The Greenprint - Brian Curley - Ep 9 In this episode of The Process by The Greenprint, Leighton Walker and Thad Layton are joined by internationally renowned golf course architect Brian Curley, whose career has taken him from growing up in Pebble Beach to designing and overseeing some of the largest golf developments ever undertaken around the world. Brian reflects on the moment he discovered golf course architecture as a profession, his formative years working alongside Pete Dye during the golf boom of the 1980s, and how those experiences shaped his approach to design. He explains why successful golf architecture is about far more than shaping fairways and greens, discussing the importance of routing, strategy, landscape, non-turf areas and understanding what clients are truly trying to achieve. The conversation then explores Brian's extraordinary work throughout Asia, including the development of Mission Hills China and Mission Hills Haikou, where he helped create multiple golf courses on an unprecedented scale. He shares fascinating stories about designing courses with distinctly different architectural identities, managing enormous construction projects, embracing local culture, and adapting golf architecture for emerging markets across China, Myanmar, Vietnam and beyond. Brian also discusses the evolution of golf development over the past four decades, the post-COVID investment boom, why renovation work has become such a significant part of modern practice, and how practice facilities, short courses and alternative golf experiences are reshaping the future of the game. Along the way, the discussion covers owner expectations, the commercial realities of golf development, irrigation, construction, architecture in emerging markets and why spending time on-site remains one of the most important parts of the design process. It's an insightful conversation with one of golf's most experienced architects, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the process of creating golf courses on every scale, from classic renovations to some of the largest projects the game has ever seen. Check out Thad: A big thanks to our partners: Toro – Click here for more information Shorehill Golf – Himalayas Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/42314225

"On the Tee" with Golf Course Architecture Magazine - Greenprint 33 07/31/2026

"On the Tee" with Golf Course Architecture Magazine - Greenprint 33 In the latest edition of On The Tee, Leighton Walker is once again joined by Golf Course Architecture magazine editor Toby Ingleton to explore some of the most interesting projects and talking points currently shaping the world of golf course architecture. The conversation begins in Ireland, where Toby reflects on recent visits to two of the country's most significant renovation projects. At Ballybunion, attention turns to the transformation of the Cashen Course by Graeme Webster and Tom Watson Design, discussing how the renovation has opened up one of Ireland's most dramatic links landscapes while creating a far more playable and strategically engaging golf course. The discussion then moves south to Tralee, where another major restoration has enhanced Arnold Palmer's celebrated design while strengthening the relationship between the golf holes and the spectacular dune landscape that surrounds them. Leighton and Toby also examine the growing emergence of high-quality 12-hole golf courses and whether they represent an important evolution for the modern game. Using New Greens in Sydney, designed by Crafter + Mogford, and the Mad Swans developments in England as examples, they discuss how thoughtful architecture, combined with wider leisure facilities, could provide a sustainable future for golf in urban environments without compromising the quality of the golfing experience. Leighton then shares his impressions from a recent visit to White Bear Yacht Club in Minnesota, one of the United States' most understated architectural treasures. The pair discuss Donald Ross's influence, the subsequent restoration work led by Renaissance Golf Design and Jim Urbina, the remarkable natural movement across the property and green complexes that demand just as much thought as the wonderfully undulating fairways. Closer to home, Toby looks back on his visit to Tandridge Golf Club following its recent renovation programme by Tim Lobb and his team. They explore how sympathetic tree management, outstanding new bunkering and subtle architectural enhancements have elevated one of England's finest inland courses while preserving its traditional character and strategic interest. To round off the episode, Leighton and Toby are joined by Jason Straka of Fry/Straka Global Golf Course Design for an exclusive update on one of the world's most extraordinary golf developments. Plover Cove will become Hong Kong's first new golf course in almost half a century and is unlike almost any other project currently under construction. Built across reclaimed land and a former landfill overlooking Tolo Harbour, the project combines complex engineering, environmental restoration and modern golf course architecture on a remarkable scale. Jason explains the challenges of working alongside dozens of engineering disciplines, relocating landfill infrastructure, capturing and recycling stormwater, restoring woodland habitats and creating a world-class golf course where few would have imagined one could ever exist. He also provides an update on construction progress, discusses the extensive sustainability measures built into the project, and reflects on how the experience is changing his own thinking about environmental restoration and golf course development. The episode concludes with updates from two further Fry/Straka projects nearing completion: Curracloe Links in Ireland, where grow-in is entering its final stages ahead of preview play, and Miakka in Florida, where work continues on an expansive championship golf development that includes a vast practice facility, native landscape restoration and an innovative 12-hole par-three course. It is another wide-ranging discussion that blends architecture, strategy, sustainability and some of the most exciting golf course projects currently taking shape around the world. Follow us to receive all episodes straight to your podcast feed Get in touch: https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ www.golfclubtalk.uk A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Himalayas Golf - Shorehill Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/42195415

Warm-Season Grasses: The Future of Sustainable Golf?? - Episode 32 07/22/2026

Warm-Season Grasses: The Future of Sustainable Golf?? - Episode 32 Guests: Brad Burgess (Sports Turf Solutions) & Ryan McKuhen (Blade Runner Farms) In the second episode of our mini-series exploring the evolution of golf course turfgrasses, Leighton Walker shifts the focus from cool-season species to the exciting world of warm-season grasses. Joined by Brad Burgess, founder of Sports Turf Solutions, and Ryan McKuhen, President of Blade Runner Farms, the conversation explores how decades of research and development are transforming the way golf courses are built, maintained and experienced through the turf that it's played on. The episode examines the evolution of modern Zoysia grasses, how they compare with traditional Bermuda and Paspalum varieties, and why many architects, owners and agronomists now see them as one of the biggest advances in golf course sustainability. Brad shares his experience introducing warm-season grasses across Asia, while Ryan explains the years of research and breeding behind Blade Runner Farms' latest turfgrass innovations. Using Miakka Golf Club in Florida as a real-world case study, the discussion highlights how these new grass varieties are helping create firmer, faster playing surfaces while dramatically reducing water consumption, maintenance inputs and long-term operating costs. The conversation also explores how these grasses are giving golf course architects greater design freedom, allowing more creative shaping without increasing maintenance demands. Looking ahead, Brad and Ryan discuss the future of warm-season turfgrasses, from improved drought and salt tolerance to even lower maintenance varieties, and explain why many believe they will play a vital role in making golf more sustainable for generations to come. Whether you're a golf course architect, superintendent, club manager or simply fascinated by golf course design and agronomy, this episode offers a fascinating insight into one of the most significant developments shaping the future of golf. Follow us to receive all episodes straight to your podcast feed Get in touch: https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ www.golfclubtalk.uk A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Himalayas Golf - Shorehill Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/42179960

Building The Greenprint: Where We've Been & Where We're Going - Episode 31 07/15/2026

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: Follow us to receive all episodes straight to your podcast feed Get in touch: https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ www.golfclubtalk.uk A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Himalayas Golf - Shorehill Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/42098870

Mike Clayton - The Process by The Greenprint - Episode 8 07/04/2026

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.cdpgolf.com/ https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk Check out Thad: A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Shorehill Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/41953285

Brett Hochstein - The Process by The Greenprint - Episode 7 06/23/2026

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.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Himalayas Golf - Shorehill Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/41333050

Cool Season Grass Development with PGG Wrightson & Scott Roberts - The Greenprint 30 06/09/2026

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. Get in touch: https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ www.golfclubtalk.uk A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Himalayas Golf - Shorehill Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/41569560

Bruce Charlton - The Process by The Greenprint Episode 6 05/29/2026

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. Reach out to Thad - https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Himalayas Golf - Shorehill Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/41450245

Riley Johns - The Process by The Greenprint 05/15/2026

Riley Johns - The Process by The Greenprint On this episode of The Process, we sit down with the thoughtful and highly respected golf course architect and shaper Riley Johns. Riley’s path through the game is a rare one — having worked alongside both Bill Coore and Tom Doak, he has been shaped by two of the most influential modern design philosophies in golf. Those experiences, combined with years of hands-on shaping work around the world, have helped form Riley’s own distinctive perspective on architecture, creativity, and restraint, culminating in Rhebb & Johns Design. Our conversation explores the experiences and influences that continue to shape Riley’s process today. He reflects on his upbringing in the Canadian Rockies and how growing up surrounded by dramatic landscapes sharpened his appreciation for terrain, movement, and scale. Riley also shares stories from his time working with some of the game’s most respected operators and architects, discussing the importance of observation, patience, and learning through travel. Part of the discussion centers around Riley’s long-standing partnership with Keith Rhebb and the collaborative dynamic that has made their work so admired throughout the golf world. We also dive into the art of routing — one of the most critical and misunderstood aspects of golf course architecture — as Riley explains how he walks and studies a piece of land repeatedly to uncover the best possible golf holes. Rather than forcing ideas onto the landscape, he discusses the discipline of letting the land guide the process and why great routing often comes from careful observation more than ambition. Riley also shares his thoughts on the ideal golf facility — one built around far more than just golf itself. This episode is a thoughtful look into the mindset behind great golf architecture and the experiences that continue to influence one of the industry’s most respected modern craftsmen. Reach out to Thad - https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk A big thanks to our partners: Toro - Himalayas Golf - Support us here: Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle! /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/41276345

Architects Round Table Discussion - The Greenprint Episode 29 05/06/2026

Architects Round Table Discussion - The Greenprint Episode 29 A very collaborative episode at the recent EIGCA Annual Meeting in Utrecht, where we joined our partner Toro to record a wide-ranging and insightful conversation with a fantastic group of guests, including: Andy Brown from Toro Toby Ingleton of Golf Course Architecture Magazine Golf course architects: Jeff Lynch of Re:Golf James Edwards of EDI Bruce Charlton of RTJ2. The discussion which was not always a deep "architecture" conversation, began with reflections on three exceptional courses played during the meeting: Kyle Phillips’ Bernardus, along with Hilversumsche and De Pan. These courses provided the perfect backdrop to explore the strength of golf in the Netherlands, a country with a rich golfing history where courses are often seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape and foster a strong sense of community. From there, the conversation expanded into how the setting of a golf course influences perception, not just in terms of scenery but in how it interacts with architectural intent. The group also explored the challenges facing golf in the Netherlands, particularly around increasing regulation. The country is often seen as a bellwether for future trends in areas such as biodiversity, chemical use, and water management, raising important questions about how these issues may shape the future of golf globally. The evolution of golf clubs was another key theme, with discussion around opening facilities up to become more inclusive, mixed-use spaces that appeal to a broader audience. Alongside this, the value of practice and short-form facilities—such as short game areas, driving ranges, and putting courses—was highlighted as an increasingly important part of modern golf operations. We also delved into length of Golf Courses and the question of; do we need to reduce the length of courses to appeal to a larger number of Golfers. It was a thoughtful and engaging conversation throughout, and we are grateful to all of our guests for their time and insights. A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk Support us here: /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/41158730

Dana Fry - The Process by The Greenprint 04/24/2026

Jasper Miners on Architecture and History - The Greenprint 28 04/12/2026

David McLay Kidd - The Process by The Greenprint 03/31/2026

"On the Tee" with Golf Course Architecture Magazine - Greenprint 27 03/22/2026

Tom MacKenzie - The Process by The Greenprint - Episode 2 03/12/2026

Tom MacKenzie - The Process by The Greenprint - Episode 2 In Episode 2 of The Process we sit down with Tom Mackenzie of Mackenzie & Ebert to explore the philosophy and thinking behind his approach to golf course design. Strategy sits at the heart of Tom’s work, with a clear focus on creating the best possible playing conditions while offering engaging strategic choices for as many golfers as possible. Strategy can take many forms, and in the episode Tom shares examples from several projects. At North Hants Golf Club the design approach included reducing the number of bunkers while still maintaining strategic interest and visual clarity. At New South Wales Golf Club a previously overlooked stone wall was discovered during the design process and incorporated as an out-of-bounds feature, creating a distinctive strategic element that now influences how the hole is played. We also discuss the company’s philosophy of producing highly detailed designs before any construction begins. This careful planning helps ensure that the strategic intent of a course is clear from the outset, while still leaving room for adjustments and creative decisions once work begins on the ground. The balance between precise planning and on-site flexibility is a key part of the firm’s process. With the firm involved at a number of venues associated with The Open Championship, Tom reflects on the responsibility that comes with helping to care for some of golf’s most historic courses. While he doesn’t feel overwhelmed by the role, he does acknowledge the importance of protecting the character and heritage of these storied venues. The conversation touches on work at a range of notable clubs including West Sussex Golf Club, Nairn Golf Club, Victoria Golf Club, Royal Liverpool Golf Club, Royal Birkdale Golf Club, Royal St George's Golf Club and North Hants. It’s an insightful conversation with one of the game’s most thoughtful architects, offering a deeper look into the strategic thinking and design process that shape some of the world’s most respected golf courses. Reach out to Thad - A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk Support us here: /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/40395170

Life at Lofoten Links (Jerry Mulvihill & Tekla Kvachadze) - Greenprint 26 03/03/2026

"The Process" by The Greenprint - Nick Mills - Episode 1 02/20/2026

"The Process" by The Greenprint - Nick Mills - Episode 1 We’re excited to bring you The Process by The Greenprint, a new sub-series that digs deep into how golf course architects think, work, and create. Hosted by Leighton Walker and joined by Thad Layton of Thad Layton Design, the series explores the processes that shape great golf design. In this first full episode, we sit down with Nick Mills, a Melbourne-born golf course designer whose introduction to the game began caddying at Capital Golf Club. That early exposure—combined with hands-on maintenance work and formal study in Landscape Architecture—laid the foundation for a career defined by curiosity, experimentation, and a deep respect for the land. The conversation traces formative projects across New Zealand and the United States, including early restoration work at Titirangi Golf Club alongside Clyde Johnson, a transition into U.S. construction at Cedarbrook, the influential Old Sandwich short-game area, and ongoing large-scale work at The Patterson Club. Along the way, we explore how small projects can have outsized influence, and why restraint and scale—particularly around bunkering—are essential tools in design. We also discuss the architects, mentors, and creative thinkers who have shaped Nick’s perspective, including French gardener and writer Gilles Clément, and his concept of the “third landscape.” The episode highlights the importance of looking beyond the golf architecture echo chamber, and how collaboration—especially in shaping—drives the best outcomes. The conversation closes with reflections on sustainability as a natural byproduct of good design, and why the greatest golf holes should ultimately make you feel something. Reach out to Thad - A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk Support us here: /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/40151475

Announcement of "The Process by The Greenprint" with Thad Layton - Greenprint 25 02/14/2026

Announcement of "The Process by The Greenprint" with Thad Layton - Greenprint 25 Following the successful launch of The Greenprint, the podcast dedicated to golf course design, sustainability and agronomy has announced a new sub-series titled “The Process by The Greenprint.” The series will focus exclusively on golf course architecture, offering an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at how architects think, work and create. The new sub-series will feature and be co-hosted by, Thad Layton of Thad Layton Design, who brings on-the-ground expertise and extensive knowledge of golf course architecture to the conversations. The Process will take listeners deep into the philosophy, history, vision and—most importantly—the process behind modern golf course design. Unlike traditional interviews, The Process is designed to go beyond surface-level discussion. Each episode will explore what truly drives architects creatively, using real-world examples from their portfolios to examine how ideas evolve from initial concept through to completed courses. The format will remain relaxed and conversational while delivering genuine technical insight. Listeners can expect candid discussions, practical examples and thoughtful reflections from respected names within golf course architecture, providing rare insight into the creative and strategic decisions behind course design. Here in this episode, Leighton and Thad sit down at the wonderful Streamsong to preview the show and get into what will be explored, including subject matter and some early guests. Episodes of The Process by The Greenprint will be released a minimum of once per month, alongside the main Greenprint schedule. A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk Support us here: /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/40096845

Panel Discussion - How Modern Machinery & Technology is Shaping Course Design - The Greenprint 24 01/30/2026

Designing Golf Courses for the Slower Swing Speed - The Greenprint 23 01/21/2026

Richard Pennell on Common Land Golf Courses - The Greenprint 22 01/13/2026

Glenelg Golf Club with Ryan Van Der Veen & Neil Crafter - The Greeprint 21 12/13/2025

Paul Jansen - Himalayas Golf & Ponta Do Pargo, Madeira - The Greenprint 20 12/04/2025

The Very Unique Golfing Offer In Madeira - Episode 19 11/21/2025

The Very Unique Golfing Offer In Madeira - Episode 19 Brought to you by Toro In this episode, we head to the striking Island of Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal located off the northwest coast of Africa. While Madeira isn’t traditionally thought of as a golf destination, it carries nearly 100 years of golfing history and features three courses across two islands—Palheiro, Santo da Serra, and Porto Santo. The islands have also played host to the Madeira Open on the European Tour for many years. And with a fourth course under construction at Ponta do Pargo, Madeira’s golf future looks brighter than ever. (Stay tuned for an upcoming episode on that spectacular project.) This episode focuses on “Golf in Madeira”—both the golf experience itself and the company of the same name. Our first guest, Andre Rodriguez, owner of Golf in Madeira, shares insights into: The unique character of golf on the island What makes each course distinct Why Madeira offers much more than a stand-alone golf holiday Beyond golf, Andre highlights Madeira’s incredible range of activities, including whale and dolphin watching, surfing, hiking, mountain biking, and more. We’re then joined by Henrique Duarte of Irrimac, the Toro distributor for the region, and Ricardo Abreu, CEO of Santo da Serra. They take us through the story of Santo da Serra’s history and the extraordinary challenge they faced when trying to create an irrigation solution for the course—and the surrounding community—when it was believed no workable solution existed. Together with Toro, they found one. If you’re searching for an exciting, evolving, and authentic golf destination, Madeira deserves a spot on your map. A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk Support us here: /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/39091885

Clyde Johnson, Cunnin' Golf Design - Episode 18 11/06/2025

On The Tee with Golf Course Architecture Magazine - The Greenprint 17 10/26/2025

Thad Layton on his Spectacular Tour of English Courses - The Greenprint 16 10/09/2025

Drawing Inspiration from the Sandbelt & Heathland: Mike Cocking on Fall Line GC and OCM Design - The Greenprint 15 09/30/2025

Drawing Inspiration from the Sandbelt & Heathland: Mike Cocking on Fall Line GC and OCM Design - The Greenprint 15 We’re joined on this architecturally focused episode by Mike Cocking of OCM. OCM have been steadily building their reputation in the architecture world, particularly across Australia and more recently in the USA. Mike talks about the team’s transition into the US market after many standout projects in Australia, such as Peninsula Kingswood and Lonsdale Links. That move began with Shady Oaks in Dallas–Fort Worth, and despite the challenges of COVID, it ultimately led to one of the game’s most significant projects: the redevelopment of Medinah No. 3. From there, the conversation dives into two fascinating OCM projects in America: Fall Line in Georgia, which opened in 2024, and Tepetonka in Minnesota, currently under construction and set to open in 2026. Fall Line is especially interesting for its bold concept of utilising two distinct design traditions—the Melbourne Sandbelt and the London Heathlands—over two distinctly different golf courses. Mike explains the techniques used to achieve the result, including finding the right playing surfaces, vegetation and design aspects such as width and tree removal. We also touch on "Sandy Links" on Melbourne's Sandbelt and right next to Royal Melbourne. It is an innovative course that is also home to Golf Australia and the PGA. Mike is not only a talented designer but also a thoughtful voice in golf architecture. He shares insights on how courses function, reflect their environments, and shape the playing experience, offering a rare window into the creative side of modern design. Check out the Hole Flyovers at Tepetonka: A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-greenprint-golf/?viewAsMember=true www.golfclubtalk.uk Support us here: /episode/index/show/715e3ac8-c080-4d1e-8a42-c6b1945d1b7a/id/38376480

Preparing for a Ryder Cup with Andrew Wilson, Bethpage State Park Golf Course - The Greenprint Episode 14 09/18/2025

The Evolution of Trump Turnberry's Ailsa Course, with Martin Ebert and Allan Patterson - The Greenprint Episode 13 09/06/2025

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