Episode 041

041 I Breaking Barriers: Sustainability, Inclusion, and Innovation in Golf

with Gina Rizzi

In this episode of Leadership on the Links, host Tyler Bloom sits down with Gina Rizzi, a leader in sustainability and inclusion in the golf industry. Through Radius Sports Group, ARCUS Marketing, and VRA Connect, Gina drives environmental stewardship, economic impact, and inclusion. 

We’ll discuss her role in developing state-level best management practice (BMP) guides and creating the first Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) report. Gina also introduces the BMP Hero platform, a groundbreaking tool simplifying BMP guide creation and helping golf courses showcase environmental leadership. 

Additionally, Gina highlights her diversity efforts, such as PGA VendorMatch events and the VRA Connect platform, which helps the golf industry connect with more than 5,000 local, small, and diverse suppliers. Finally, we’ll explore her work in economic impact reporting and the engaging “TurfBusters” segment, which busts industry myths with a mix of technical insights and humor. 

Let’s dive into this impactful conversation with Gina Rizzi. 

What You’ll Learn in this Episode: 

• Sustainability and Marketing Expertise: Gina Rizzi leads Radius Sports Group, ARCUS Marketing, and VRA Connect, focusing on sustainability, marketing, and inclusion within the golf industry. 

• BMP Hero Platform: Recently launched tool that streamlines the creation of facility-specific best management practice (BMP) guides for golf courses.
  
• Inclusion Initiatives: Rizzi’s efforts aim to connect new communities with golf industry opportunities. 
  
• Technological Advancements: Golf’s environmental and economic impact reporting is becoming increasingly sophisticated. 

Soundbites: 

“It’s really about inclusiveness—making sure anyone who wants to be part of the industry has the opportunity, increasing awareness, and giving people a fair chance.” (22:10) 

“The BMP Hero platform is a game-changer, simplifying a process that used to take hours into just 30 minutes.” (25:13) 

Key Quotes:

• “There’s a lot of focus on DEI in the news right now. Speaking personally, as a female business owner, I would never want to receive business just to check a box because I’m a woman. I want to earn it based on merit. The same applies to the workforce. I wouldn’t want to get a job just because of my gender—I want to be hired because I’m the best person for the role, period.” 
• “The goal is that if all facilities can have their BMPs, then this is something that the RGCSA can share with legislators and hopefully prevent them from having to undergo these types of irregular kinds of rules and laws or legislation between cities.” 
• “When we talk about inclusion in the workforce, it’s about reaching out to local markets, schools, colleges, universities, and associations—connecting with people in non-traditional areas, beyond just sports management programs.” 

Links and Resources Mentioned: 

• Website: https://www.radiussportsgroup.com/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginarizzi/ 
• Email: Gina.Rizzi@radiussportsgroup.com