Golf Sustainability

Dave Andrews is the Director of The Path at The Park West Palm Beach. The Park West Palm project is a golf course designed for everyone to use, from beginners to professionals, with many of the amenities you’d find at a high-end private course. Once The Park was completed, Dave was part of the team brought in to develop programs, including “The Path.” The Path is a community center that happens to be at a golf course. It’s become the perfect blend of Dave’s passion and purpose, giving kids hope and inspiration. Dave took the blank slate that he was given and spent months meeting with leaders in the local communities, from high school principals and teachers to nonprofits and coaches. He listened to the community to create a strategy to address their specific needs and vision for the future. The Path was launched on the premise that every child deserves the chance to succeed in life. Their goal was to take a kid who may not be on the right path and change their trajectory. Dave is building educational programs (STEM, ESOL classes, and more), hiring tutors and translators, and offering academic enrichment opportunities. They’re working to launch a SNAG (Starting New at Golf) program, led by a golf professional who goes into schools with all of the equipment necessary to take over and teach golf in PE classes. They want every child in West Palm Beach to be able to have a golf experience. The Path seeks to change kids’ lives while introducing them to the game of golf. Join us in this conversation to learn more about this awe-inspiring community program—including how to inspire community involvement or launch your own program. Topics covered: Resources & People Mentioned The Park West PalmThe Path Connect with Dave Andrews LinkedIn Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter) Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotify Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media. Audio, Video, and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Welcome to Episode 9 of the Golf Sustainability Podcast! In this timely conversation, host John Failla engages with Frank LaVardera, the Director of Environmental Programs for Golf at Audubon International. Together, they delve into the intricacies of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP), the Signature Program, and Audubon International's groundbreaking Platinum Program, all designed to foster environmental sustainability in golf courses. Frank, with his extensive background in environmental consulting, shares his journey to Audubon International and sheds light on the ACSP. This program tailors solutions for existing golf courses, guiding them through an environmental assessment and creating plans for water conservation, wildlife habitat management, chemical use reduction, and more. The conversation seamlessly transitions to the Signature Program, designed for new courses or those undergoing renovations, with Frank outlining its 11 components and emphasizing the importance of the Natural Resource Management Plan. Drawing from real-world examples, Frank spotlights Saco Country Club in Maine, showcasing their commitment to sustainability, especially in managing water runoff and implementing a closed-loop wash water system. Frank shares insights into Audubon International's collaborations with partners and sponsors, emphasizing the impact of environmentally sustainable products and services from companies like Water IQ and Porous Pavement. Reflecting on his influential career, he highlights the evolution of sustainability in the golf industry over the past 40 years, sharing inspiring stories about environmental stewards like Jim Pavonetti. In the final segment of the conversation, listeners gain a glimpse into Frank's personal motivations and aspirations, where he expresses a desire to be remembered as someone who cared deeply about the environment and fostered a user-friendly and collaborative approach in the golf industry. Join us on this insightful journey into the intersection of golf and environmental stewardship. Subscribe to the Golf Sustainability Podcast on your favorite platform and tee off with us as we explore the vital role of sustainability in shaping the future of golf. Together, let's make golf more sustainable and environmentally friendly! Topics Covered: Signature Program for New Golf Courses and Renovations Platinum Program for Integrated Certification Audubon International's Conservation Initiatives Sponsorship and Partnerships for Environmental Sustainability Personal Journey and Motivations in Environmental Conservation Resources and People Mentioned: Audubon International:Water IQ:The Cornell Turf School ProgramCabot RevelStroke: Connect with Our Guests Frank LaVardera LinkedIn Connect with Audubon International Audubon International Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

Welcome, golf enthusiasts! I'm John Failla, your host on the Golf Sustainability Podcast. In today's episode, we're honored to have Sandy Cross, the Chief People Officer at the PGA of America, as our guest. Sandy will share insights on a topic close to my heart—inspiring diversity and inclusion in golf. In this engaging conversation, Sandy and I delve into her career journey, from starting as a licensing administrator to her current roles overseeing people operations, diversity and inclusion, and more. We discuss the PGA of America's grand vision for the golf industry, aiming to reflect the diverse demographics of America in both participants and workforce. Sandy highlights five key areas of commitment in their inclusion efforts, touching on governance, education, workforce, procurement, and community initiatives. We explore groundbreaking programs like PGA Works, aimed at diversifying the golf industry workforce, and initiatives such as Make Golf Your Career and Make Golf Your Business, fostering diversity in career opportunities and supply chains. Discover how grassroots grants play a crucial role in building relationships with diverse communities and supporting local programs that make golf accessible to all. Sandy also shares personal insights, including the transformative power of golf, her inspiration from her parents, and the challenges and triumphs of relocating the PGA of America during the pandemic. Join us on this inspiring journey into the heart of golf and diversity. Stay tuned for more engaging episodes on the Golf Sustainability Podcast! Topics Covered: Framework for Diversity and Inclusion at PGA of America Internal Diversity and Inclusion Programs Industry-wide Initiatives and Programs Grassroots Initiatives and Community Engagement Resources and People Mentioned: Connect with Our Guests Sandy Cross LinkedIn Connect with Audubon International PGA of America Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

Welcome! In today's episode, we're honored to have Tom Coyne, Author and Golf Course Owner. Tom’s vision for reviving Sullivan County Golf Club in 2024 is nothing short of spectacular. With a focus on enhancing both the golfing experience and overall atmosphere, Coyne is set to transform the 180-acre, nine-hole course into a golf destination. On the golfing front, Coyne is orchestrating a significant course renovation, including the creation of three new holes. The goal is to optimize the layout, taking advantage of the stunning topography and views that Sullivan County offers. With plans for sodding the entire course using a mix of grass strains reflective of its century-long history, the team aims to preserve the course's character while enhancing playability. The project also emphasizes sustainability, mindful of the Catskills' rural landscape. Coyne's approach involves careful tree removal to enhance safety and improve golf quality. The commitment to responsible land management, combined with the use of organic inputs from partners like Toro and AquaTrols, sets the stage for an environmentally conscious golfing experience. As Sullivan County Golf Club gears up for the 2024 season, it's not just about revitalizing a golf course; it's about creating a haven where golfers, families, and food enthusiasts converge to enjoy a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and exceptional experiences. The vision for saving Sullivan County Golf Club is poised to redefine what a golf destination can be. Topics Covered: Tom's Background and Golf Writing Career (00:03:00 - 00:08:00): Challenges Faced by Sullivan County Golf Club (00:08:00 - 00:15:00): First Year Initiatives and Improvements (00:15:00 - 00:26:00): Future Plans and Developments (00:26:00 - End): Resources and People Mentioned: Sullivan County Golf ClubA Course Called IrelandA Course Called ScotlandA Course Called AmericaPiccolo Paese Connect with Our Guests Tom Coyne Linkedin Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

Welcome to an engaging episode of the Golf Sustainability Podcast, with host John Failla and Kevin Sunderman, the Chief Operating Officer of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Kevin, a seasoned executive in the world of golf, presents GCSAA’s inspiring vision for the future. From his early days as a golf enthusiast in rural Ohio to his current influential role, Kevin's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we delve into his passion for making a meaningful impact and sparking change in the golf community. In this episode, we embark on a journey to explore a greener, more sustainable future for the golf industry as Kevin discusses GCSAA’s programs including the Golf Course Environmental Profile Study and their Best Management Practices (BMPs).. Tune in for an engaging and enlightening discussion that highlights the opportunities for a more sustainable future for golf. Topics Covered: Resources and People Mentioned: Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) GCSAA Golf Course Environmental Profile GCSAA Best Management Practices Connect with Our Guests Kevin Sunderman LinkedIn Connect with GCSAA Golf Course Superintendents Association of America Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

Welcome to a fascinating episode of Golf Sustainability! In this enlightening conversation, your host, John Failla, engages in an in-depth dialogue with Greg Nathan, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Golf Foundation (NGF). Together, they explore the dynamic world of off-course golf and its profound impact on the golf industry. Diving headfirst into the discussion, John and Greg traverse the various facets of off-course golf, encompassing driving ranges, the exhilarating world of golf entertainment exemplified by Topgolf, and the cutting-edge realm of simulator golf. A particular focus emerges on the role these activities play in cultivating "shot euphoria," that gratifying sensation integral to the game of golf. Drawing from his extensive expertise, Greg Nathan presents data on the remarkable growth of off-course golf participation and underscores the pivotal role of off-course golf in making golf more accessible and enjoyable, particularly for newcomers and casual players. Unearthing the driving forces behind the meteoric rise of off-course golf, John and Greg dissect the allure of these venues, from their accessibility and entertainment factor to the engaging gaming elements, and seamless integration of technology. In particular, the discussion spotlights the transformative impact of golf entertainment hubs like Topgolf. Furthermore, Greg Nathan accentuates the pressing need for traditional golf courses to evolve, embracing a more welcoming and inclusive approach that breaks down the barriers preventing newcomers from transitioning to on-course golf. This conversation doesn't stop at showcasing the success of off-course golf; it also sheds light on the harmonious coexistence of off-course and on-course golf. Many who partake in off-course activities find themselves drawn towards the allure of a traditional golf course. This symbiotic relationship underscores how off-course golf is a gateway that introduces individuals to the broader golfing experience, paving the way for potential migration to on-course play. In essence, this episode delves deep into the heart of the evolving golf landscape, emphasizing the pivotal role of off-course golf in shaping the sport's future. The insights shared by Greg Nathan, the NGF President & CEO, and John Failla are invaluable, providing listeners with a profound understanding of how off-course golf is redefining the game and expanding the horizons of golfing enthusiasts. So, join us for this illuminating episode as we explore the captivating world of off-course golf and its transformative influence on the golf industry. Topics Covered: Impact of Off Course Golf on On Course Participation 3. The Impact of Off-Course Experience on Green Grass Golf Evolution of the National Golf Foundation's Role and Work Future Initiatives: Improving the Welcome to Golf Experience Resources and People Mentioned: National Golf Foundation (NGF)Fortnight - NGF NewsletterTopgolf Connect with Our Guests Greg Nathan LinkedIn Connect with The National Golf Foundation NationalGolf Foundation Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

In this engaging podcast episode, host John Failla welcomes Ron Dodson, a biologist and author, to the Golf Sustainability Podcast. Ron Dodson shares his journey into golf sustainability, his background in wildlife biology, and his mission to connect people with nature and promote responsible natural resource management. The conversation touches on various topics, including the challenges of sustainability in golf, the importance of site selection for new courses, and the need for customized environmental management plans. Ron Dodson emphasizes that sustainability is not a one-size-fits-all approach and discusses the significance of water conservation in the golf industry. The episode highlights the role of technology and new methodologies in addressing water use and wastewater treatment. Ron Dodson also touches on the economic aspect of sustainability and how it can become an economic opportunity rather than an expense. This insightful discussion sheds light on the evolving landscape of golf sustainability and the importance of grassroots action to drive positive change in the industry. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the intersection of golf and environmental responsibility. Topics Covered: Customizing Sustainability for Golf Courses (3:02 - 8:30) Environmental Management Plans for Golf Courses (8:30 - 26:43) Engaging the Golfing Community in Sustainability (26:43 - 30:01) Importance of Sustainable Practices in Golf (31:03 - 32:03) Regulatory Environment and Sustainability (32:08 - 33:29) Challenges of Water Management in Golf (33:36 - 35:09) Inspiration and Motivation for Sustainable Golf (50:12 - 51:49) Resources and People Mentioned: The Dodson GroupSustainable Golf Courses: A Guide to Environmental Stewardship - Kindle edition by Dodson, Ronald G., Palmer, Arnold. Arts & Photography Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com. Connect with Our Guests Ron Dodson LinkedIn Connect with The Dodson Group The Dodson Group Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

In this special episode, we're joined by Craig Boath, Head of Sustainability at Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland. Craig is a pioneering figure in the golf industry, being one of the first superintendents to hold the role of Head of Sustainability. John and Craig discuss various aspects of sustainability and golf, including Craig's career journey in the industry, the rich heritage of Carnoustie Golf Links, and the environmental and social initiatives undertaken by the course. They delve into partnerships with organizations like GEO (Golf Environment Organization) and suppliers like John Deere and Rainbird to implement sustainable practices and technologies on the course. Craig emphasizes the importance of data collection and measurement in sustainability efforts, as well as the challenges of meeting golfer expectations while pursuing sustainability goals. He also shares his personal motivation and inspiration for preserving and enhancing Carnoustie for future generations. Join us for an enlightening conversation about golf and sustainability, and how golf courses can make a positive impact on the environment and their communities. Subscribe to the Golf Sustainability Podcast to stay updated on more episodes like this one. Thank you for tuning in! Topics Covered: Resources and People Mentioned Carnoustie Golf Links, ScotlandR&A (The R&A, The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews)Alan RobertsonSustainable.golfRain Bird | A Global Irrigation CompanyJohn Deere US | Products & Services Information Connect with Our Guests Craig Boath LinkedIn Connect with Carnoustie Golf Links Carnoustie Golf Links, ScotlandInstagram Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

Dave Barton, the executive director of the National Alliance for Accessible Golf, shares his journey and insights in making golf more accessible for individuals with disabilities. The National Alliance's mission is to increase the participation of people with disabilities in the game of golf through education, advocacy, and resource development. Dave discusses the organization's resources, including an ADA checklist for golf course design, which helps golf course owners and operators identify ways to remove barriers and create accessible environments. He emphasizes that making golf more accessible doesn't have to be cost-prohibitive and encourages golf course operators to take small, manageable steps. Dave also highlights the importance of the Golf Access and Inclusion Network (GAIN), a free community platform that connects golfers, programs, and organizations interested in promoting accessibility and inclusion in golf. Throughout the conversation, Dave underscores the idea that making golf more accessible benefits not only individuals with disabilities but also golf course operators by attracting a broader range of golfers, including an aging population. He encourages operators to proactively seek information, use available resources, and reach out to organizations like the National Alliance for support in their efforts to create accessible golf experiences. In a more personal context, Dave shares that his motivation comes from a passion for staying engaged, making a positive impact, and constantly learning. He values the mentorship and inspiration he has received from individuals he has met throughout his career, both in the military and the golf industry. Retirement is not on his immediate horizon, as he finds fulfillment in his work and the opportunity to make a difference in the world of accessible golf. Dave Barton's dedication to promoting accessibility in golf shines through in this conversation, demonstrating the positive impact that can result from proactive efforts in this area. Topics Covered: Guest Introduction and Background (1:23 - 3:07) Mission and Work of the National Alliance for Accessible Golf (3:13 - 7:30) The Golf Access and Inclusion Network (GAIN) (7:38 - 11:01) Creating Accessible Golf Environments (11:09 - 19:35) Steps for Golf Course Operators (19:43 - 24:10) Resources and People Mentioned National Alliance for Accessible Golf Connect with Our Guests Dave Barton LinkedIn Connect with National Alliance for Accessible Golf National Alliance for Accessible Golf Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media. NO EDITS

Welcome to the Golf Sustainability Podcast! In this episode, host John Failla engages in an enlightening conversation with Graeme Beatt, the Course Manager at Royal Portrush Golf Course in Ireland. Graeme shares insights into the fascinating work happening at Royal Portrush as they prepare to host the 153rd Open in 2025. Join us for this engaging discussion as we explore Graeme's background, his journey to becoming Course Manager, and the sustainability initiatives transforming the golf course. Discover how Royal Portrush is committed to sustainability, from solar panels and lithium-powered equipment to biofuels and carbon neutrality goals. Learn about the partnerships that play a pivotal role in their sustainability journey, including their collaboration with the GEO Foundation. If you're passionate about golf and sustainability, this podcast is a must-listen! Don't miss out on the valuable insights and innovative ideas shared in this episode. Stay tuned for more episodes of the Golf Sustainability Podcast, where we explore the intersection of golf and environmental responsibility with industry experts and leaders like Graeme Beatt. Subscribe now and join the conversation on the future of sustainable golf courses. Topics Covered Background and Heritage of Royal Portrush (Timestamp: 3:00 - 10:02) Preparations for Hosting the 153rd Open in 2025 (Timestamp: 23:51 - 29:57) Reputable Golf Organizations (Timestamp: 30:03) Sustainability Efforts by the R&A (Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews) ((Timestamp: 30:17): Challenges and Growth in Golf Course Management (Timestamp: 42:01): Resources and People Mentioned The R&A (randa.org) Connect with Our Guests Graeme Beatt LinkedIn Connect with Royal Portrush Golf Club Royal Portrush Golf Club Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

In this episode of the Golf Sustainability Podcast, John Failla welcomes Jason Straka, principal of Fry Straka Global Golf Course Design, a leading global authority on sustainable golf course design. Jason shares his journey into the world of golf and how his passion for the environment led him to merge golf and environmental aspects of design. He discusses the three pillars of sustainability in golf course design: environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Jason emphasizes that these three aspects need to coexist to create truly sustainable golf courses. They also touch upon the challenges in implementing sustainable design, including the need for education and changing perceptions among golfers. Jason explains how education can help golfers understand the benefits of sustainable practices, even if they result in less lush greenery on the course. Overall, this podcast episode provides valuable insights into the world of sustainable golf course design and the importance of balancing environmental responsibility, social benefits, and economic viability in golf course projects. Topics Covered Analogies in Understanding (40:56 - 42:29): Building Trust and Rapport (42:36 - 45:44): Involvement with ASGCA (American Society of Golf Course Architects) (45:50 - 49:03): Collaboration with Golf Course Superintendents Association (49:08 - 52:33): Involvement with GEO Foundation (52:42 - 57:10): Industry Suppliers' Role in Sustainability (57:16 - 59:27): Largest Irrigation Suppliers - 1:00:02 Water Usage on Golf Courses - 1:00:07 Research in Water Conservation - 1:00:14 Environmental Sustainability in Equipment - 1:00:27 Future of Environmental and Sustainable Design - 1:03:30 Resources and People Mentioned Fry Straka Global Golf Course DesignGolf Course Scottsdale | JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort and SpaHome - American Society of Golf Course Architects (asgca.org)Golf Course Superintendents Association of America | GCSAAGolf Environment Organization | Confederation of Professional Golf (cpg.golf) Connect with Our Guests Jason Straka LinkedIn Connect with Fry/ Straka Global Golf Course Design Fry / Straka Global Golf Course DesignInstagramFacebookTwitter Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.

Welcome to the Golf Sustainability Podcast! Hosted by John Failla, a passionate golfer and sustainability expert, this podcast delves into the crucial environmental and social aspects of golf sustainability. With a background in corporate sustainability, John merges his love for golf with his deep industry knowledge to help sustain the game for future generations. In this introductory episode, John introduces himself, sharing his golf journey from a high handicapper to a golf enthusiast, and his professional experience in sustainability. He emphasizes the importance of three dimensions of golf sustainability: environmental sustainability (supply side), social sustainability (demand side), and economic sustainability, highlighting how they are essential for the industry's future. John discusses the podcast's mission, vision, and guiding principles, centered around helping the golfing community succeed, amplifying the success of others, and creating a coalition of like-minded organizations and individuals. He outlines the podcast's content, covering topics such as environmental sustainability (water conservation, wildlife management, waste recycling, energy management), social responsibility (expanding participation, inclusivity, off-course concepts), and economic sustainability as the lifeblood of the industry. This podcast is for golf course owners, superintendents, architects, PGA professionals, and industry associations, all dedicated to advancing sustainability in golf. Join us on this journey to explore the intersection of golf and sustainability. Subscribe to the Golf Sustainability Podcast on your favorite platform and connect with us on social media for daily insights. Share your thoughts and ideas for future episodes by emailing John at John@GolfSustainability. Get ready to embark on your golf sustainability journey and make a positive impact on the environment, society, and the future of golf. Tune in and start your sustainable golfing adventure today! Topics Covered Resources and People Mentioned Connect with Our Host John Failla LinkedIn Connect With Golf Sustainability LinkedIn Facebook InstagramX (Twitter)Email Subscribe to Golf Sustainability Apple PodcastSpotifyGoogle Podcasts Note: Timestamps provided are approximate. Thank you for listening to the Golf Sustainability podcast. If you found this episode interesting, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! For more insights and updates on sustainable energy solutions, visit our website and follow us on social media.