Photo courtesy of Ricky Kalmon
Thursday’s CTS closing session is not just another motivational speech, keynote speaker Ricky Kalmon says emphatically.
“This is not a cheerleading session. This is a session to offer you tools that you can apply personally and professionally,” Kalmon says. “I’m teaching people how to create daily change. My motto is ‘change the way you think, and you will change your world.’ This is not your average, feel-good keynote closing message. This is an inspiring way — regardless of who you are — to show up better and stronger.”
Kalmon is a widely renown hypnotist, motivational speaker, self-described mindset expert and author of “Leverage Your Mindset: Overcome Limiting Beliefs" and "Amplify Your Life and Leverage Your Mindset for Golfers." He has presented on ESPN, CNN and for sports teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Yankees. For GCSAA, he says, his program will be a hybrid — part entertaining, part mindset coaching.
“The program I’m going to do for (GCSAA) will be fun, high energy, entertaining but thought-provoking. I want people to walk away not only laughing but also thinking differently — how to lead better with their teams and how to lead better with themselves,” Kalmon says.
As part of the program, Kalmon will ask for volunteers from the audience to hypnotize. He says the hypnosis is not just sideshow entertainment, rather part of his core message.
“The average person thinks of hypnosis as control or getting people to do something against their own will power. That’s not true. I just help people become more present in the moment without being distracted,” Kalmon says.
“Really what’s happening is that you’re getting rid of the limiting beliefs or doubt or fears that can rule our world. How often in life does a preconceived outcome hold us back? For example, if you say ‘I don’t know how I’m going to get everything done’ and guess what? You’re right. When you say something like that, your brain absorbs it and unconsciously makes decisions to fulfill that promise. Instead we can look at challenges not as frustrations but as opportunities.”
Kalmon says he coaches a “growth mindset.” “I help people look at the challenges in their head as opportunities to grow. I help people get rid of the limiting beliefs and become more present. I help them become a better version of themselves. Our mind can be our best friend or our worst enemy.”
Kalmon says he hopes his program helps attendees realize how much their internal voice may be controlling them or holding them back.
“I teach people how to get out of their own way by removing negative thoughts. Or even when they’re successful, I can help them become better,” Kalmon says. “I use simple techniques to help reduce stress and overcome challenges. I help push ourselves a little harder without letting external distractions get in the way.”
Opening the closing session
Before Kalmon takes the stage, join hundreds of fellow GCSAA members for an hour of reflection on the past year and recognition of accomplishments, presented in partnership with John Deere.
The newly elected 2026 Board of Directors will be introduced. The 32nd Annual Collegiate Turf Bowl champions will be announced. And several award winners who have impacted the industry will be recognized.
Kalmon’s performance is Thursday, Feb. 5, from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. in the Valencia Ballroom. The closing session begins in the same room at 1:15 p.m. (doors at 12:45 p.m.). This reception will be a chance to network with peers, with light food and complimentary drinks served.
Admission for both is free for All-Access and Full-Pack registrants, but you are encouraged to confirm your attendance during registration so GCSAA can plan accordingly.