Jake Hoselton and Pete Wilson, key players behind Grass Clippings, join Howard Lindzon, Managing Partner at Social Leverage. They dive into their ambitious venture of creating a high-stakes par-three golf league and discuss the emotional ties fans have with sports. The trio shares amusing tales from golf tournaments, focusing on the innovative transformation of courses for night play and community involvement. They also explore the rise of 'alt-golf' and its appeal to new audiences, reflecting on the intersection of sports, entertainment, and investment opportunities.
The Grass Clippings initiative aims to redefine golf culture by creating a fun, relaxed par-3 experience that fosters community.
To overcome initial skepticism, the founders emphasized their unique business model and successfully navigated city negotiations for course leasing.
Their strategy leverages modern technology and social media for audience engagement, ensuring a blend of traditional and contemporary golfing appeal.
Deep dives
Creating Innovative Golf Experiences
Aiming to disrupt traditional golfing norms, a venture is underway to establish a uniquely designed entertainment-based par-3 golf course alongside a high-stakes par-3 league. This conceptualization is driven by a vision to create a vibrant golfing culture that fosters community and highlights the enjoyment factor, much like other entertainment venues. The entrepreneurs behind this initiative recognize that golf can often be veiled in excessive formality, and they aspire to alter this by offering a more relaxed, engaging golfing atmosphere. They envision a setting where players can share moments of fun and community spirit, ensuring that the experience goes beyond the game itself.
Navigating Challenges in a Competitive Landscape
The journey to launching this league and golf course is fraught with typical startup challenges, including securing funding and managing logistics such as selecting an appropriate course site. Initial skepticism from potential investors regarding the proposed business structure was overcome by emphasizing the uniqueness of their model and its potential to attract a diverse audience. They successfully navigated city negotiations, showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit when they presented a compelling case to lease a par-3 course that had lost money in the past. Their ability to articulate a clear vision for revitalization and community engagement not only captured the attention of the city but paved the way for eventual success.
Building a New Golf Culture
The emphasis on building a distinct and inclusive culture around the par-3 league is a fundamental element of this venture. In recognizing that golf should be accessible and enjoyable for enthusiasts of all skill levels, the league aims to promote inclusiveness where everyone can feel like a participant. Events will prioritize entertainment and socialization, drawing parallels to successful non-traditional golf formats that have grown in popularity. The founders anticipate that by creating environments that encourage gatherings and lively interaction, they will significantly alter perceptions of golf as an elite sport, making it more approachable and enjoyable for new audiences.
Utilizing Technology and Media for Growth
Leveraging modern technology and social media channels to attract audiences is key to the par-3 league's growth strategy. By producing engaging content and unique viewing experiences, the league seeks to capitalize on the growing audience for alternative sports formats. Events will be live-streamed and available for easy access on popular platforms, ensuring a cross-pollination between traditional viewers and the younger demographic that thrives on digital media. The founders are not just relying on golfing talent; they also recognize the potential of influencers and new methods to engage viewers, creating an atmosphere that can generate significant media interest.
The Financial Model and Future Aspirations
The financial strategy combines real estate investments with league operations, aiming for sustainable growth through innovative revenue streams. By selling franchises for the league, they are not just incorporating traditional investment methods but also allowing owners to take part in the branding and culture formation of their teams. With the ambition to foster a dedicated fanbase, their approach is to gradually build value for the league while ensuring all involved parties are invested in the outcome. This model reflects a clear thought process where success begets more opportunities, ultimately leading to the creation of a league that could significantly influence the golfing landscape.
Jake Hoselton is the CEO of Grass Clippings. Pete Wilson is the CMO of Grass Clippings. Howard Lindzon is the Managing Partner of Social Leverage.
The guests talk about trying to build a new high stakes par 3 golf league.
Links:
2024 Grass Clippings Open https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cX0ktag2kA 2024 Good Good Desert Open https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PE7t7K173-U
Follow Grass Clippings on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/GrassClippingsc Follow Howard Lindzon on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/howardlindzon
Follow the show on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/halfkelly
Support the show links: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YTMUqap_Z0D9832cOl5wYxUs16Byr6xx-iAZzrRL3VU/edit
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