With back to back appearances on our Groundskeeper Chat series, we welcome John Clintsman with Ensworth School back again to talk more about cultivating crew culture. This time around, John is joined by his longtime mentor and friend, Dr. Goatley. The two talk about how they've learned from one another over the years and how important and great it is to have mentors turned friends in this industry. Dr. Goatley gives us insight into his side of the industry at Virginia Tech and the two gentlemen recall the story of how they met.

Here's what you'll hear in this week's Groundskeeper Chat:

  • The importance of mentorship in sports turf
  • How to cultivate a healthy crew culture
  • How being a mentor keeps you sharp and up to date on best practices
  • Lastly, insight into the next generation of sports field managers

A little bit more about our guests:

John Clintsman is the Director of Grounds for Ensworth School in Tennessee and one of our 2022 Pioneers in the Field class members. Dr. Michael Goatley is a professor and turfgrass extension specialist with Virginia Tech and has served as one of John's mentors from early on his career. Both gentlemen are active members of SFMA.

Catch John's other Groundskeeper Chat and Pioneers in the Field profile here:

You can also listen to the conversation on: