# Episode 88 - Can Golf Stay Affordable? The Story Behind National Links Trust

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/golf-and-politics-6866604/episode-88-can-golf-stay-affordable-the-story-behind-national-links-trust
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/golf-and-politics-6866604/episode-88-can-golf-stay-affordable-the-story-behind-national-links-trust.md
Podcast: [Golf And Politics](https://stenobird.com/podcast/golf-and-politics-6866604)
Published: 2026-04-30T22:11:00+00:00
Episode link: https://golfandpolitics.com/
Audio file: https://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/pdst.fm/e/op3.dev/e/cohst.app/pdcst/9X3R9N/traffic.megaphone.fm/HRERO3296622698.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/golf-and-politics-6866604/episodes/episode-88-can-golf-stay-affordable-the-story-behind-national-links-trust
Duration seconds: 4185

## Resource

In this episode of Golf & Politics, we dive deep into one of the most important—and overlooked—stories in the game today. We sit down with Will Smith, co-founder of the National Links Trust, to explore the intersection of golf, history, and power in Washington, DC. From restoring historic municipal courses to preserving access for everyday golfers, this conversation goes far beyond fairways and greens. We cover: The mission to keep golf affordable and accessible The untold civil rights history of DC’s municipal courses How golf became a rare space where politics doesn’t matter The rise of the Outpost Club and modern golf culture The growing tension between public golf and elite development What happens when politics enters the game This episode isn’t just about golf—it’s about community, opportunity, and who the game is really for. If you care about the future of golf, you need to hear this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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## Transcript

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