Breaking Down Barriers: Strategies For Promoting Inclusivity In Golf with Todd Kierstead & Jeremey MacRae

06/16/23 • 54 min

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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“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

Previous Episode

Leading With The Conclusion with Colin Cox

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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.

Next Episode

Addressing Golf's Diversity and Accessibility Barriers

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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.