Golf and tech aren’t usually a pairing we hear together. But from simulators to health and wellness tracking, the sport is more plugged in than ever. In fact, new tech is opening many doors for the sport. For instance, with simulators, “you can play amazing courses all year-around,” says Paige Spiranac, which is especially attractive to people who don’t live in places like Arizona, where the weather is conducive to playing golf throughout the year.
Ariana Escalante and Andre Stone, hosts of the Digital Trends’ CES Experience Center, spoke to Spiranac — a golfer, podcaster, and influencer — about her mission to make a positive impact on the world.
Part of what sets Spiranac apart is her expert use of social media. And the key to a successful social media platform? “Authenticity,” she says without hesitation. “That’s the first thing I tell to anyone. I’ve built such a loyal and engaging following because I have been so open and honest. I work with companies that fit my brand, and I never do something that’s not me.”
“Social media is a highlight reel,” Spiranac continues. “So I try to show the times I completely fail and have fallen on my face. I think a lot of people relate to that.” That’s all part of her authenticity, and while she’s pushing the boundaries of the traditional golf establishment, she’s also bringing along an audience that may never have been interested in golf without her.
Spiranac also hosts the iHeart Radio podcast “Playing a Round,” which she has been doing for over a year now. “It’s a lot harder than you’d think it is,” she laughs. “I’ve been so comfortable on YouTube and Instagram and Twitter, but doing a podcast is so different than any of the other content I’ve done before.” Especially without a video component, the content you create on a podcast needs to be compelling on its own, she says, adding that “it all goes back to just being open and honest,” she says.
And who would be her dream guest? “I played golf with Justin Timberlake,” she says. “He’d be really great on the podcast. Or (former One Direction singer) Niall Horan — a megasuperstar. And while I do know these people, getting them on the podcast is different. I don’t want to be intrusive!”
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