F
rom the course to the shop, PGA of America Golf Professionals are always looking for new perspectives or ideas that can improve their businesses and their lives. That search for innovative content includes books, podcasts, YouTube videos and a number of other avenues where experts share their thoughts.
PGA Magazine asked a number of PGA of America Professionals and golf industry experts what books and podcasts they’ve enjoyed, and why they’d recommend them to their peers.
by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson
In this month’s PGA Magazine cover story, PGA of America President Don Rea Jr. talks about two books that helped shape his business acumen while he worked at Home Depot prior to entering the golf business. The first is the original version of this book, which has since been updated by its authors. The timeless lessons of how to lead others still apply, and the book continues to resonate with PGA of America Golf Professionals and leaders of all kinds.
with Chad Lawson
As we look at the end of the year and set our New Year’s resolutions, many of us are looking for ways to calm our minds and find balance in our work, home and family lives. This weekly podcast is accessible and sensible, with 15-minute episodes on topics like how we individually define success, how to keep from over-worrying and what to do when you feel like you’re spinning your wheels in life.
by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles
The second book referenced by Rea in this month’s cover story is also a classic, and also co-authored by Blanchard. Anyone involved in a customer-facing business – and especially PGA of America Golf Professionals – can benefit from reading or re-reading this classic book, which lays out why simply satisfying customers is not enough. What businesses want and need are fans, and the book has plenty of advice for how to turn your customers into your best promoters.
by Jonathan Haidt
As children in the U.S. have seen their formative years change from play-based to phone-based, the mental health of children saw a sharp decline over the past decade. This book takes a deep look into how the experience of childhood has been “rewired” in substantial ways, with social media harming girls and boys withdrawing into the virtual world. It’s an important read to understand how young people today are different, and how activities like golf can help protect them from the possible damages.