Kyla Bursey aims to create transformative spaces that nourish the soul. She does this through various platforms, including podcasting, media work, and most notably, being a golf instructor. Through founding Hikylabur LLC (a play on her name and the phrase “high caliber”), Kyla uses her podcast ad golf to uplift others and motivate them to honor their mental wellness.
Kyla Bursey
Company, Business, or Organization: Hikylabur, LLC
Title: Director, Golf Instructor
What do you do or create in Nashville? I direct Hikylabur LLC, instruct with Hikylabur Golf, work as a part-time Office Support Representative at Metro Parks and Recreation, and freelance as a production assistant.
I founded Hikylabur LLC to galvanize others to seek joy and balance in life. I believe that we can realize our potential while protecting our mental health. Hikylabur is a play on my name and “high caliber,” for I’ve always been an overachiever. Yet, I often struggled with burnout.
Hikylabur started as a podcast. This experience led to my freelance production assistance work. Last May, after graduating from Rhodes College with a B.S. in computer science, I decided to pursue purpose, not the purse.
I moved back home, concluded the second season of the Hikylabur Podcast, and introspected. Golf has been an outlet since college. I have been playing my entire life. However, in college, I started playing for myself, not my parents. I knew my purpose. Golf was the platform.
I wanted to share with my peers how transformative the sport is. I wanted to create a space where one can relax, unwind, and connect with oneself and others. I wanted to be the representation that I did not see growing up. These desires inspired Hikylabur Golf.
I launched Hikylabur Golf on May 1. I offer individual and group instruction, as well as host golf clinics and social events. LONE is the official Hikylabur Golf Social for young adults to experience the social and wellness that golf provides. LONE stands for Love One Never Escapes, redefining the word (a)lone with a positive connotation. We may find ourselves alone sometimes, but there is love within all of us. That love is the love we can never escape. Together, we can be LONE.
I have also recently become a member instructor at Melrose Golf Club. This membership is limited to two instructors and provides a space for Hikylabur Golf’s indoor instruction and events, such as LONE. My role at Metro Parks and Recreation enables me to use Metro courses for outdoor instruction. Ted Rhodes is my preferred course, for I seek to help preserve the legacy of African-American golfers there. The course was made for us, by us, and it should remain a pillar in our community.
What brought you to Nashville? I was born here and moved back home after graduating from Rhodes College last May to be close to family and growth.
What inspires you? Solidarity and authenticity inspire me. People uniting in their truth and purpose empowers me.
Brunch, Lunch, or Happy Hour? Coffee/Tea
Favorite Nashville artist/musician? Coco Jones
Favorite Nashville spot you are digging right now? Melrose Golf Club, of course, because it is Hikylabur Golf’s new home. I’m also digging Capri on Sundays to listen to good music, hang with my bestie, and meet cool people.
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