056 | Excellence by Design: Culture and Development with Eric Shoemaker
In this episode, we sit down with Eric Shomaker, Director of Golf Course and Grounds at Wade Hampton Golf Club, to explore his journey in the golf industry, leadership philosophy, and commitment to developing the next generation of golf course superintendents.
Eric shares how intentional leadership, mentorship, and innovative team development practices have shaped the culture at Wade Hampton—one of the most respected pure golf experiences in the country.
What You’ll Learn in this Episode:
Intentional leadership and open communication are foundational to Eric’s approach.
Assistant superintendents at Wade Hampton receive hands-on leadership training, budget exposure, and mentorship through structured programs.
Influenced by mentors like Marsh Benson, Eric emphasizes relationship-building and thoughtful decision-making.
Creative development strategies like “Manager of the Week” and “Lunch-and-Learns with Members” help assistants prepare for long-term careers in the turf industry.
The culture at Wade Hampton is grounded in excellence, camaraderie, and continuous growth—principles reflected in Eric’s leadership, which champions work-life balance, emotional intelligence, and a deep belief that long-term success comes from investing in people and embracing diverse professional experiences.
Links mentioned:
Wade Hampton Golf Club: https://www.wadehamptongc.com/
Leadership on the Links
Welcome to Leadership on the Links, the essential podcast for golf course superintendents, general managers, and executives who are passionate about mastering the art of golf course management. Hosted by Tyler Bloom, this podcast brings you into the world of golf course leadership with insightful interviews, expert advice, and actionable strategies designed to help you excel in your role.
Each episode features in-depth conversations with industry experts who share their knowledge on a wide range of topics, from turf management and sustainability to team leadership and operational efficiency. Tyler’s engaging style ensures that every discussion is not only informative but also enjoyable, capturing the spirit of a casual yet insightful chat as if you're walking the course with a trusted mentor.
- No. of episodes: 65
- Latest episode: 2025-06-13
- Business Sports Management Golf
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