Colin Weston is co-founder of Reviver Sport Entertainment, along with being the creator and host of “The ModGolf Podcast.” He tells of his circuitous route into golf, what he's learned and why listening is such a valuable trait.

The First Call: Please give us a short overview of your company.
Colin Weston: “The ModGolf Podcast” talks with golf's top influencers, entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors about their visions and solutions to reimagine, transform and enhance the game. “The ModGolf Podcast” is a media asset of Reviver Sport Entertainment that was created to help build community and to give under-represented golf industry entrepreneurs a platform to share their story.

TFC: In one sentence, describe what you do for a living.
CW: I'm a community builder, sports tech entrepreneur, experience designer, public speaker, social impact startup supporter, innovation junkie and educator.

TFC: What are key elements to leadership or to being a good leader? 
CW: Great question, as we talk about this a lot on “The ModGolf Podcast.” Strong leaders/entrepreneurs/founders all process most or all of these traits: resilience, curiosity, courage, positivity, empathy, patience and the ability to listen. Surround yourself with smart, vibrant people, then empower them so they are engaged in the journey of creating products/services/experiences that deliver a solution to your customer's problem.

TFC: Who is your role model?
CW: I saw Simon Sinek's “How Leaders Inspire Action” TED Talks right when I was starting my entrepreneurial journey and his “it's not what we do but why we do it” mantra still resonates with me today and influences my views on culture and community building. I've done 115 episodes of “The ModGolf Podcast,” which has bestowed upon me the gift of 115 stories, 115 world views and 115 micro-mentoring moments. I have learned something unique and insightful from each guest and look at the majority of them as role models. One of the side benefits of hosting a podcast is meeting new people who, over time, become good friends.

TFC: Knowing what you know today, what professional advice would you give a younger you?
CW: For starters, be more generous, kind and forgiving to myself. Negative outcomes in sport and life led to a lot of self-doubt and criticism, which held me back. During my academic years, I was a procrastinator combined with a perfectionist, which is the worst combo ever. I'd always hand A-grade assignments in late because I didn't think they were good enough when they were due. Becoming an entrepreneur forced me to unlearn these traits and habits, allowing me to embrace a “ship it and see what happens” mindset. Talk less and do more. The act of creation is the best way to learn. Surround yourself with smart, interesting, energetic people. We are the product of those people we interact with, so circulate with amazing humans who inspire you to be a better version of yourself.

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