The Spin Podcast

What makes a golf destination truly work for PGA Professionals, coaches, and their clients?In this episode of The Spin Podcast, we’re joined by Stéphane Menou, General Manager of CPG Collection Member, SO/ Sotogrande and The Alto Club, to explore how golf travel is evolving — and what coaches can do to create richer, more valuable experiences for players.Drawing on decades of international resort leadership, Stéphane shares insights on destination design, academy development, hosted coaching trips, and why the most successful golf experiences go far beyond tee times alone.This episode is ideal for anyone interested in golf travel, coaching trips, academy development, and the business of coaching.01:25 Stéphane’s Background and International Hospitality Journey03:10 What Makes Sotogrande a Unique Golf Destination05:45 The Evolution of Golf Travel and Player Expectations08:40 The Alto Club & Academy Vision (Accessibility, Juniors, Performance)12:10 Why PGA Professionals Are Central to Golf Travel Success15:30 Creating a “360° Experience” Beyond Golf18:50 Practical Advice for Coaches Hosting Golf TripsFind out more about SO/ Sotogrande and The Alto Club at https://cp.golf/4j9ASnL

In this episode of The Spin Podcast, CPG announces a new partnership with CoachNow, a top-rated coaching app, extending their existing relationship with Golf Genius. Featuring discussions with Tom Bentley, Head of Marketing for Golf Genius International, and Ian Randell, CEO of CPG, the episode highlights the benefits of using CoachNow for PGA Professionals. Greg Brodie, a CoachNow power-user, shares his experience of how the platform enhances his coaching activities. The episode offers CPG network members a four-month free trial of CoachNow Pro, promoting innovative coaching and business management.00:00 Introduction to the Exciting New Partnership01:20 Tom Bentley on the Evolution of Golf Genius02:29 Ian Randell Discusses the Benefits for CPG Members03:59 Exclusive Offer for PGA Professionals04:39 CoachNow's Comprehensive Features05:25 Educational Resources and Support07:04 Greg Brodie's Experience with CoachNow10:20 Conclusion and How to Get Started

In this episode of the Spin Podcast, Marc Arnold, Director of Instruction for Viya Golf in Abu Dhabi, UAE, sits down with CPG CEO, Ian Randell. Marc shares his inspiring journey from his first golf lesson at 12 years old to his current role overseeing golf instruction at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Yas Links Golf Club, and Yas Acres Golf & Country Club. They dive into Marc's coaching philosophy, his commitment to further education, and the importance of creating identities for multiple golf academies. Marc also emphasises the need for high standards, fostering a supportive culture, and the business of coaching. Ideal for anyone interested in the business of coaching and career growth in the golf industry.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview00:59 Marc Arnold's Early Journey in Golf02:13 Transition to Professional Coaching02:46 International Coaching Experience05:20 Role as Director of Instruction09:40 Developing Golf in Abu Dhabi20:09 Coaching Philosophy and Approach21:06 Foundations of a Great Golf Swing21:31 Using Technology in Coaching22:55 Building a Successful Golf Academy24:14 Creating Unique Identities for Each Facility26:44 Managing and Leading a Team28:30 Balancing Coaching and Administration32:01 Future Goals and Aspirations37:53 Advice for Aspiring Golf Coaches40:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Spin Podcast, we’re joined by Pete Lockett, a PGA Member and coach to Canadian Olympian Alena Sharp. Pete takes us through his unique journey from becoming a professional coach to guiding an elite athlete on one of the biggest stages in sports. As he discusses the preparation and strategies leading up to the Women’s Olympic Golf Competition in Paris, Pete provides a fascinating look at the dynamics of coaching at the highest level. Beyond the Olympics, Pete reflects on the importance of being a PGA Member, and the value of mentorship in the coaching community. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or interested in the world of high-performance coaching, this episode offers valuable insights into what it takes to succeed at the top. Image credit: Dave Holland

In this episode of The Spin Podcast, we speak with Brijinder Singh, President of the Indian Golf Union [IGU], direct from Paris about his experiences at the 2024 Olympic Games, and the broader role of the IGU and National Golf Academy of India [NGAI] in shaping the future of the sport in India. Brijinder shares his reflections on the men’s and women’s Olympic golf competitions, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of Indian athletes on this prestigious global stage. Beyond the Olympics, Brijinder discusses the IGU’s collaboration with the CPG and the ambitious goals set for the development of golf in India. From enhancing grassroots participation to ensuring top-quality coaching, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the future of Indian golf and its growing influence on the international scene.

Since 2013, Kevin Kirk has been recognised as a “Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher” and is currently the Director of Golf Instruction at The Woodlands Country Club, coaching LPGA and Ladies European Tour players such as Patrick Reed, Lexi Thompson, Jhonattan Vegas, Mark Hubbard and Maria Verchenova. CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell, caught up with Kevin at the 2022 Players Championships held at TPC Sawgrass, USA, to discuss all areas of high performance in golf, leadership and life in general, his 'moneyball' approach, and his role with the upcoming High Performance Trip that will head to Trump Doral, Miami, in March 2023. Find out more about the CPG High Performance Trip in Miami, USA, taking place in March 2023 here: https://cp.golf/3760S2j.

CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell, is joined by two leading figures in Canadian Golf in Kevin Thistle (Chief Executive, PGA of Canada) and Laurence Applebaum (Chief Executive, Golf Canada) to discuss current state of affairs for the sport in North America and Canada. Championing collaboration between PGA and Federation, First Tee, the RBC PGA Scramble and making the game more accessible and enjoyable for all are just a number of key and important topics debated throughout this bumper 50+ minute podcast episode. Visit the PGA of Canada: https://www.pgaofcanada.com Visit Golf Canada: https://www.golfcanada.ca

PGA of Germany Professional, Stefan Quirmbach, has played a central role within the PGA of Germany as President for over 20 years. Through his leadership and contributions during this time, the organisation has developed its business significantly to ensure its PGA Members receive the highest possible standards of education and support services, whilst also enabling the organisation to further its role as a leading and influential voice for German golf. As his tenure draws to a close, Stefan joins CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell, in this podcast episode to share with you what he considers some of the most significant contributions he has made to the PGA of Germany and to the wider professional game in the country, as well as provide valuable insights into what the future holds for the organisation and German golf.

This special edition of The CPG Podcast takes a deep dive in to the roles, experiences and work of PGA Professionals that are involved across all aspects of Olympic Golf, hearing from PGA Members that are working as team managers and coaches across both the Women’s and Men’s events out in Tokyo, and in one special case we’ll also be hearing from a PGA Member that has already taken home some silverware. Joining the show are PGA of Germany Member, Men’s Olympic Coach, German national team Mem’s Coach, and CPG 2020 John Jacobs Award for Teaching & Coaching Winner, Ulrich Eckhardt; PGA of Germany Member, Team Germany Olympic Coach and Board Member of the German Golf Association, Marcus Nuemann; PGA of Finland Member and coach to Sami Valimakki, Timo Karvinen; PGA of Great Britain & Ireland Member and coach to Adrian Meronk, Matt Tipper; the CPG’s very own David Kearney from Team Ireland, also a PGA of Great Britain & Ireland Member and CPG 2018 5 Star Professional Award Winner; and PGA of Slovakia Member and Silver Medallist in the Men’s event, Rory Sabbatini. The episode covers topics from both the women’s and men’s events, such as the Olympic experience both as players and as coaches, the impact of the Olympics in various countries, the roles of the coaches and managers in particular, the amazing Kasumigaseki Country Club, player preparations for Olympic success, as well as taking a look back at the Men’s event that has just culminated and ahead to women’s event as well.

PGA of America CEO, Seth Waugh, joins CPG Chief Executive, Ian Randell, in this special Spin-Off episode of The Spin Podcast to share his vision for the “greatest game on Earth” During the episode, Seth elaborates on some of his most successful industry collaborations, he highlights the need to align priorities and activities in order to fit with modern generations and trends, and he discusses some of the greatest assets in golf including The Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits in September 2021 and the USPGA Championship.