Episode 168: Toro Grounds Leadership Podcast Tour- James Hlavaty, Pioneer Athletics Product Manager

Be sure to check out this awesome episode with an incredible professional, Marcus Campbell. We had the incredible honor of seeing his first-class facility in St. Paul, where he is doing an incredible job. We got the opportunity to dive into what it takes to manage the field, the crew, and so much more. We cannot thank Marcus enough for taking the time! Be sure to listen.

When you talk about two of the most influential industry professionals out there, these two are some of the first names that come to mind. Not only have they had a lasting impact on the Sports Field Management Industry, but they are some of the kindest and caring human beings that you will ever meet. Abby and Nick were panelists at this year's Grounds Leadership Academy, where we discussed some of the insight that they shared with the group while in Minnesota. Be sure to listen!

It is always an incredible opportunity to talk to one of the industry's best, Jeff McManus. His experience and passion for our industry are unparalleled. In our conversation, we dove into the very real aspects of being a leader, from the challenges to the incredible impact one can have in a leadership role. Jeff's insight is truly remarkable and definitely something you do not want to miss.

If you want to see what the Toro Grounds Academy is all about and what you can gain from attending one of the best events in the turfgrass industry, Josh and his team are tasked with developing the event and creating a space where industry professionals have authentic conversations that truly impact everyone in attendance. Josh and I have an awesome discussion that you do not want to miss.

Be sure to check out this incredible episode, featuring the heart and soul of the Tour Grounds Team and some of the best people in our industry. Chris, Matt, and Troy are the District Sales Managers for North America, with some of the best insight into the machine that is The Toro Company. We discuss the Toro Grounds Leadership Academy and how it ties into the culture of the incredible organization that brings you industry-leading equipment. This is a must-listen!

Upon Arrival at the Grounds Leadership Academy, we met with Grant Davisson, the Minnesota Vikings' Director of Sports Fields and Grounds. As a part of the Toro Ground Academy, we were able to tour their facility and see the behind-the-scenes of their operation and how an NFL Grounds Crew Operates. We had a fantastic conversation about essential subjects in the industry and how they will impact our future. You do not want to miss it!

Our next stop takes us to the Quad Cities, home of the Single A Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, RiverBandits. We met up with the Director of Field Services and good friend, Morgan Hunter. We discussed her time in the KC Royals system, where she has grown in each opportunity. Talked about an upcoming field renovation necessary to meet PDL standards and much more. You do not want to miss out!

We had the honor of stopping in Cleveland to see one of our former students working his first internship with the Cleveland Browns and Pioneer Athletics. It has been great to see how far Sam has come since his first year in the Brentsville Turf Program. He has an extremely bright future in this industry. I am beyond proud of his continued dedication to professional growth. Be sure to check it out!

Also, at our stop at Pioneer Athletics, we got the incredible opportunity to talk with industry leader James Hlavaty. We dive into the R&D portion of the organization to talk about the advancement of the industry with their groundbreaking innovation for field paint. We also got some great insight into the incredible culture of the Ohio Sports Field managers and their continued work of excellence. Be sure to check it out!

Check out our next stop on the Toro Grounds Leadership Podcast Tour in Cleveland, Ohio, with the Content Lead for Pioneer Athletics, Meg Kruger. This is an excellent episode with a unique perspective on our industry as a whole. Maeg has spent her time in the industry uplifting others with her platform and has high aspirations to make a positive impact on our industry. Be sure to check it out.