next on the tee

In this special bonus edition of Next on the Tee, I get to share time with two incredible guests who each taught me something game-changing—especially for those of us playing golf after 50. First up is fellow Yinzer and fan-favorite Rocco Mediate. Rocco was recently featured in the inspiring new documentary Steel Links, hosted by former Pirates star Neil Walker and featuring Pittsburgh icons like Charlie Batch and Carole Semple-Thompson. We talk about that project, but we also go deep into Rocco’s memories of playing in the 1994 U.S. Open at Oakmont alongside Mr. Palmer during his final appearance in the championship. Despite needing back surgery, Rocco wasn't going to miss that moment. He shares what it was like inside the ropes with The King and what he said to him on the 18th green that sent Mr. Palmer's emotions over the edge. Rocco also shares his emotions following his recent victory at the Furyk & Friends event, plus he shares a tip he posted on Instagram that gave me 10 more yards and straighter shots—a true key to better golf after 50. Then I’m joined by PGA Tour veteran and elite instructor Larry Rinker. Larry opened my eyes to how much I still have to learn about the golf swing. He walks us through the Wright Balance system and its three swing models, explains what I was getting wrong, and provides clear insight that will help your game. We also reflect on his T12 finish at the 1992 Open at Muirfield, his Masters experience, including playing the Par 3 contest with Gary Player and Gay Brewer, and the pressure of surviving Q-School. He even shares a great tip for holing more downhill putts. It’s a jam-packed, fun, and informative episode I know you’ll enjoy.

In Part 2 of Season 12, Episode 33, former PGA Tour player, top orthopedic surgeon, and Olympic historian Bill Mallon returns to share some incredible stories from his time around the game. Bill tells the story of being there when Craig Stadler earned the nickname "The Walrus." He reflects on the players who taught him the most during his time on Tour — including our good friend Gary Player. He also shines a light on some of the most underrated players he’s seen over the years. Bill then takes us into his deep well of Olympic knowledge, sharing his favorite Olympic memories and a fascinating connection between golf and the origins of the stones used in Olympic curling.

In this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two outstanding guests who share more than just a first name, Tom, both bring incredible insight and passion to the game. First up is our resident Director of Instruction, Tom Patri, who’s been on the road working with his young players across Florida and Michigan. Tom and I dive into the highs and lows of what’s happening on the PGA Tour. We celebrate Scottie Scheffler’s win at The Open and debate whether his methodical dominance is “boring” or simply brilliant. While Tom sees predictability, I see a player achieving greatness through precision, consistency, and class. We also discuss some disappointing trends—like Wyndham Clark’s tantrum at Oakmont and the rise of club-throwing and tee marker destruction. Tom and I both believe the Tour needs to start publicly addressing these actions with transparent fines and suspensions to help clean up the game. Then I welcome back one of the most respected PGA Professionals in the country, Tom Wildenhaus. Wildy is the Director of Golf at Olde Florida Golf Club and a former National PGA Professional of the Year. He’s also a terrific writer with a must-follow Substack, where he recently tackled topics like the hidden costs of employee turnover, how to instill club culture in new hires, and the importance of building real relationships with members. We also talk about the fading presence of empathy in society and what that’s doing to our communities. On the teaching side, Tom shares valuable tips on structuring a more purposeful practice session. It’s a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation you don’t want to miss. Come back for Part 2 when Bill Mallon shares some of his favorite player stories including being there when Craig Stadler got the nickname, The Walrus.

In Part 2 of Season 12, Episode 32, I’m joined by someone I truly admire and consider a creative genius — Michael Whelan. If you don’t already follow him, go find him on X (Twitter) @MichaelJWhelan. Michael’s legacy in the world of golf media is nothing short of extraordinary. He was the visionary who launched The Golf Channel back in 1994–95 — hiring the talent, creating the programming, and turning Arnold Palmer’s dream of a 24/7 golf network into reality. He helped launch the career of Scott Van Pelt and many others. What’s more impressive is how quickly he pulled it all together — building out the entire channel in under six months and proving the skeptics wrong with exceptional programming and production quality. But this segment goes much deeper than career highlights. Michael bravely shares the physical and emotional challenges he’s currently facing. He opens up about his battle with cancer and the pain of watching his wife slowly fade due to Parkinson’s disease. It’s a moving, raw, and deeply personal conversation that reveals the strength, vulnerability, and creative spirit that defines him. Michael has also teamed up with our friend Tucker Booth to co-author a powerful new book titled The Final Broadcast, which we preview during the show. This is an emotional, inspiring segment you won’t forget.

In This Episode of Next on the Tee: I’ve got three incredible friends back on the show this week—each with a powerful story and a lasting impact on the game of golf. In Part 1, 1991 Open Champion Ian Baker-Finch, a man whose excellence on the course has often been overshadowed by the wrong narrative. This time, we set the record straight. We go back to his incredible performance at Royal Birkdale, where he played brilliant golf over all four days to capture the Claret Jug. Ian also reflects on his many wins around the world, including the 1983 New Zealand Open (his first professional event) and top finishes at The Players and The Masters following his Open Championship. Between 1983 and 1994, Ian was one of the top players on the planet—winning 17 times across the PGA, European, Japanese, and Australasian Tours. In addition to his playing career, we celebrate his nearly 30 years as one of golf’s most respected broadcasters. He also gives us a preview of his upcoming book collaboration title, To Hell & Back, a docu-drama style memoir due out in August. Next, I’m joined by Paul Stankowski, one of my all-time favorite guests, now making his 14th appearance on the show. Paul’s game is in top form coming off back-to-back Top 10 finishes at the U.S. Senior Open and Dick’s Sporting Goods Open. We talk about those performances, the joy of having his son Josh on the bag, and his excitement for the upcoming Senior Open Championship at Sunningdale. Off the course, Paul is doing meaningful work with Direction 61:3, a nonprofit that supports young adults aging out of foster care. When these kids turn 18 and cycle out of foster care, the state gives them $500, but if they don't have someplace to go, now they're homeless. Paul is raising money through his birdie campaign on Tour—check out Direction613.org and Paul's Instagram page to learn more and support the cause. Be sure to come back for Part 2 featuring my conversation with the amazing Michael Whelan. His story is going to hit you in the heart...

In Part 2 of Season 12, Episode 31 of Next on the Tee: In Part 2 of this week’s show, I’m joined by Marcy Kamoda, CEO of Proto Concept Golf, one of the fastest-rising equipment brands in the game today. Their clubs have earned multiple spots on the Golf Digest Hot List, and after hearing from Marcy, it’s easy to understand why. We dive into Proto Concept’s incredible commitment to quality — from their use of 3D CAD technology to the meticulous inspection of every single club head they produce. No sampling here — just precision engineering and tour-level performance in every piece. Marcy walks us through their full product lineup, including their new RR wedge series featuring laser milling for optimized spin, and the C01D driver, specially designed for players who don’t swing like the pros but still want to launch it long and straight. Marcy’s passion and positivity shine throughout the conversation. Whether you’re a gearhead, a weekend warrior, or just curious about what sets great clubs apart from the rest, this is a segment you won’t want to miss.

This Week on Next on the Tee Get ready for one of the most fun and insightful episodes of the season! In Part 1 of this week's show, I’m joined by two incredible guests who bring a mix of laughs, life lessons, and game-changing golf knowledge. First up is PGA Professional and Top Mental Performance Coach Joe Bosco. Joe came highly recommended by top instructor Jeff Smith, and after spending time with him, I can see why. Joe is not only a short game guru—he’s also a certified hypnotherapist, and in this episode, we dive into what hypnotherapy is, how it works, and how it can help you improve your game and your recovery. (Spoiler alert: I even went through a session myself to help with my ankle surgery recovery!) Joe also shares some techniques and strategies for sharpening your game with your scoring clubs, making this a segment one you’ll want to bookmark and come back to. Then, fan favorite and 1989 Open Champion Mark Calcavecchia returns for another round of great stories and off-the-cuff laughs. We hear about the infamous Christmas card from him and Brenda featuring a streaker at The Open, his encounter with a water cooler that nearly took out his mom, and how JC Snead taught him—and by extension, me—what the “Through Line” is and why you don’t walk in it. We also talk about his practice rounds with Tiger at the 2000 Open, wins at the 1993 and 1995 Argentine Open, and why he believes All in the Family and Green Acres deserve more love. This one’s packed with entertainment and insights from tee to green and beyond. Don’t miss it!

This Week on Next on the Tee, If you’ve ever wondered whether your $10 shades are holding your game back, this is the episode for you. I’m excited to welcome Morne Botha to the show for the first time. Morne is the CEO of JondoSport, one of the premier eyewear brands in the game today, and a PGA Professional from South Africa with a deep background in golf instruction and club management. We’ll rewind to his early days in the game and the influence a local PGA Pro had on his journey. Morne shares stories from his time launching golf academies with South African legend Andries Oosthuzien and leading operations at Pecanwood Estate Golf & Country Club—a Jack Nicklaus-designed gem where he transformed the member experience both on and off the course. Then, we dive into JondoSport and what makes their KRISP lenses stand out from traditional and polarized options. Morne explains how their lens technology helps players read greens better and why Jondo’s precision-engineered design offers serious golfers a competitive edge. We also talk about the challenge of launching a premium eyewear brand internationally and how Ernie Els became one of their key brand ambassadors. Plus, we cover the stylish side of performance with designs like the “Club Champ” and “Gimme” that are turning heads and elevating vision on the course.

On this episode of Next on the Tee We kick things off with one of the most respected voices in sports psychology, Dr. Bob Winters, aka the “Confidence Doctor.” Dr. Bob joins me each month to help us strengthen our mental approach to the game, and this week we dive into the topic of “choking” — what it really is, and more importantly, what it isn’t. Following Tommy Fleetwood’s tough finish at the Travelers Championship, social media lit up with talk about pressure and performance. Dr. Bob offers his expert perspective and guidance to help us stay focused when the pressure’s on. Plus, we talk about the incredible success his junior players are having — if you know a young player looking to elevate their game, Dr. Bob is the person to call. Then I’m joined by my wonderful friend and Assistant Captain, Darren Pang. With the Stanley Cup Finals in the rearview mirror, it’s always great catching up with Panger to talk hockey and golf. We discuss what it’s going to take to dethrone the now back-to-back Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers and preview next February’s Olympic hockey tournament. On the golf side, Darren shares his love for Miura clubs, why Royal County Down tops his list of favorite courses, and his memories from being at the 1997 Open at Royal Troon. He also gives us a look inside his home course Prestwick Village Golf Club in Michigan and his personal backyard putting green crafted by Celebrity Greens.

In Part 2 of Episode 29, I’m joined first by Kyle Moloo, the Chief Marketing Officer of Sunday Swagger, a bold and fast-rising brand that’s redefining golf apparel. Kyle shares how the company is shaking up the game with vibrant colors, standout designs, and exciting partnerships—including one with Guinness that caught my attention as a longtime fan. They are making golf apparel fun for the whole family. Then, I close out the episode with a quick turnaround visit from 2-time PGA Tour winner and 4-time Hall of Famer Richard Zokol. Richard was such a hit last week, I had to bring him back to finish some incredible player stories. He shares stories of PGA Pro turned Lee Trevino bodyguard, Jim King, a practical joke he played on Jack Nicklaus, a transformative moment with Moe Norman and Clay Edwards, his interaction with Byron Nelson at the 1993 Masters, and what it was like early in his career when he didn’t feel like he belonged on Tour. You won’t want to miss this one!

In this episode of Next on the Tee, our resident Director of Instruction Tom Patri returns to share his take on this year’s U.S. Open and what it meant to see a guy he's favored all season, J.J. Spaun, take home the title. We also dive into some of the more controversial moments from the tournament, including Rory McIlroy’s tee marker incident and Wyndham Clark destroying a couple of lockers. Tom weighs in on how players and the media handle tense moments and opens up about the deep respect he has for his longtime mentor, John Kennedy. Speaking of John, he joins me next and brings with him a legacy of excellence in golf instruction and service. A past PGA Professional of the Year, multi-time Bill Strausbaugh Award winner, Patriot Award recipient, and a proud member of the Met Section Hall of Fame, John reflects on his time at Westchester Country Club, where the Learning Center now bears his name. We talk about whether it’s more difficult being the host pro for a PGA Tour event or an LPGA or Senior Major, and his answer may surprise you. John also shares his insights on next year’s U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills and how the wind can drastically alter the challenge, as well as his early thoughts on the upcoming Ryder Cup, which will be hosted just down the road from him at Bethpage Black.

In Part 2 of Episode 27 I'm joined by 2011 U.S. Senior Open Champion Olin Browne and one of the all-time great golf course Photographers Evan Schiller. Olin shares memories from playing in the US Open at Oakmont in 1994 and 2007, including battling brutal heat during a sweltering second-round tee time in ’94 and the honor of playing the same day as Arnold Palmer’s final U.S. Open round. We also talk about Oakmont’s legendary rough and greens, whether a 15-handicap could even break 150, and how it ranks among the toughest courses Olin has ever played. Then I’m joined by world-renowned golf course photographer Evan Schiller, who reflects on his experience playing in the 1986 U.S. Open at Shinnecock. We dive into Evan’s recent and upcoming travels, including his return to Ireland to shoot Old Head, his thoughts on Andrew Green’s restoration work at East Lake, and why Pasatiempo might feature the best collection of par 3s anywhere. We wrap up with a deep dive into Reynolds Lake Oconee’s Creek Club, the incredible courses at The McLemore, and the designers who’ve left the biggest impression on him. From Tour-tested insight to breathtaking golf course imagery, it’s a conversation every golf fan will love.

This Week on Next on the Tee On this week’s episode, I’m joined by two incredible guests who bring unique perspectives from both the sports media and golf worlds. First up is Justin LaBar, General Manager of TribLIVE’s High School Sports Network and longtime content creator for TribLIVE. Justin shares his journey from attending Point Park University in Pittsburgh to covering Super Bowl 43 in Tampa as a student journalist, and eventually transitioning straight into a full-time role at the Trib. He also reflects on the special Father’s Day he spent with his dad at this year’s U.S. Open. Beyond his media career, Justin is also a well-known pro wrestling analyst and weekend host on SiriusXM’s Busted Open radio show. He’s full of great stories and insights you won’t want to miss. Then, I’m joined by 2-time PGA Tour winner and 4-time Hall of Fame inductee Richard Zokol. Richard makes his 8th appearance on the show, and this time we focus on the mental side of the game. He shares a preview of his upcoming book, Zokology: Winning With Your Mind, set to be released on Father’s Day 2026. Richard opens up about how to overcome self-imposed expectations and those placed on you, strategies for quieting mental noise, and how a Sony Walkman helped him win on Tour. We also look back at his memorable front-nine 30 during the final round of the 2000 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach and why you should celebrate your own accomplishments. Both conversations are insightful, inspiring, and filled with powerful takeaways. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

In Part 1 of this week’s Next on the Tee, I had the pleasure of visiting Pittsburgh Brewing Company and sitting down with their amazing Marketing Director, Rachel Gill. Rachel shares the story behind the evolution of this iconic brand—it’s not just your grandfather’s Iron City anymore. While staying true to classics like Iron City and IC Light, they’re also brewing exciting craft selections like Pool Side and Block House Blueberry Wheat. We talk about their stunning new facility, built on the historic site of the old Pittsburgh Glass Works, and their impressive on-site concert venue that’s quickly becoming a must-visit destination—set to host country legends Alabama during U.S. Open week and Joan Jett later this summer. Then I got a surprise guest—Rosalie Wisotzski, a spirited golfer who’s played Oakmont and just returned from a dream trip to St. Andrews. She, her stories, perspective, and love of the game were absolutely captivating. I'm so glad she stopped by—you will be too. It’s a fun, inspiring, and very Pittsburgh kind of episode.

In Part 2 of this week’s episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by someone quickly becoming one of my all-time favorite guests—Bill Mallon. Bill’s remarkable journey through golf, medicine, and the story of tickets to the 1980 Winter Olympics that he gave to his father, is one you won’t want to miss. A former standout amateur and 2x All-American at Duke, Bill captured 43 amateur titles, including the Massachusetts and New England Amateurs twice each. He played on the PGA Tour from 1975 to 1979 and teed it up in the 1977 U.S. Open at Southern Hills—an event made unforgettable by winner Hubert Green playing through death threats, a moment Bill experienced firsthand. After his time on Tour, Bill returned to Duke for medical school and went on to become one of the country’s top orthopedic surgeons. He also shares an unforgettable story about the time he and Gary McCord set the PGA Tour record for the fastest round ever played—finishing in just 1 hour and 26 minutes at Harbour Town in 1977, a developing story that caught the attention of TV cameras and eventually Commissioner Deane Beman. We also dive into Bill’s passion as an Olympic historian, including a powerful and emotional story about gifting his father tickets to the 1980 Winter Olympics to see speed skating legend Eric Heiden—a moment that would become part of his father’s final words years later. This is an episode filled with incredible stories, heartfelt moments, and the kind of perspective only someone like Bill Mallon can bring.

This week on Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two incredible guests who each bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and heart to the game. First up is former PGA Tour Pro Joe Inman, whose remarkable career includes being a 3-time All-American at Wake Forest, winner of the Arnold Palmer Award in 1969, and a member of that year’s victorious U.S. Walker Cup team. Joe takes us back through the majors he played at Oakmont, the '69 U.S. Amateur, the '78 PGA Championship, and the '83 U.S. Open. Plus he talks about playing with and against future legends Lanny Watkins, Steve Melnyk, Allen Miller, Tom Watson, Jay Siegel, and Paul Purtzer in the Walker Cup and at the US Amateur. Joe’s peers say he’d make the perfect PGA Tour Commissioner—and after hearing this conversation, you might agree with that they're right. Then, we welcome back our resident “Confidence Doctor” Dr. Bob Winters. In his regular monthly segment, Doc shares stories from his early days in the game, including a touching memory of meeting the great Jim Dent. As always, he brings unmatched positivity and teaches us how to build lasting confidence both on and off the course.

In Part 2 of Episode 25, my gumba Rob Strano joins me to celebrate the grand opening of his new state-of-the-art golf academy in the Florida panhandle. Rob takes us back to his days playing on Tour, sharing reflections on what he calls the “Uecker effect” which he unfairly depicts his PGA Tour career, since he became one of the 1% of the 1% who reached the elite level of the sport. He also recounts a wild story involving what might just be a Tour record on a par 5 at Smithfield Country Club. We also talk about the power of belief, mindset, and staying positive—both on the course and in life. Then, I’m joined by the Confidence Doctor himself, Dr. Bob Winters. Doc shares stories from his recent travels, including a golf-filled trip to a lesser-known Hawaiian island. With the U.S. Women’s Open last week, we discuss some of the players he’s currently working with in the field, plus the incredible work one of his students is doing for junior golfers across Asia and the Philippines. It’s a fun and insightful wrap to another fun episode.

In this week’s episode of Next on the Tee, we kick things off with our resident Director of Instruction Tom Patri. After a long drive from Key West to Naples, a quick round of golf with students, and another sprint home just to make it on the show, TP shows up delightfully “extra crispy.” Tom shares his expert thoughts on this year’s PGA Championship, including whether the tournament should’ve implemented lift, clean, and place rules after heavy rain left the course saturated—something that cost Scottie Scheffler a couple of strokes thanks to a muddy fairway lie. We also dive into his experiences playing Oakmont both with and without trees, and what makes its lightning-fast greens and 6-inch rough such a brutal test of golf. Then, we’re joined by 2013 Senior Open Champion Mark Wiebe, who brings his trademark candor, wit, and honesty back to the show. Mark shares behind-the-scenes stories the PGA Tour would rather keep quiet, including past efforts by the players to form a players’ union, the contrast between today’s luxury tour travel and the motels and coach flights of his era, and his own memories of facing Oakmont’s fierce layout. It’s a mix of golf wisdom, honesty, and humor you won’t want to miss.

In this very special edition of Next on the Tee, I welcome back one of the greatest players in golf history—Mr. Gary Player. For the past 12 years,I've had the incredible honor of spending time with Mr. Player, a true legend whose achievements on and off the course are unmatched. With more worldwide victories than any other golfer and the distinction of being the only player to complete the career Grand Slam on both the PGA and Champions Tours, Gary Player’s place in golf history is undeniable. As Rory McIlroy joins the elite Grand Slam club, Mr. Player reflects on the significance of that achievement and the greatness of fellow legends like Ben Hogan and Bobby Lcke. He also shares powerful insights on mental strength, preparing for major championship pressure, and the evolution of his own golf swing and putting stroke. Mr. Player offers fond memories of the U.S. Opens he played at Oakmont, including holding the 36-hole lead in 1973, and takes us back to his Masters victories—especially the emotional reception he received at Augusta in 1978. Now approaching 90, his enthusiasm for life and the game remains as vibrant as ever. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of a remarkable man and the enduring friendship he’s shared with the show since being its very first guest.

In Part 2 of this week’s Next on the Tee, I’m joined by Champions Tour and European Legends Tour standout Clark Dennis. Over the past few years, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know Clark, including spending time with him at last year’s Mitsubishi Electric Classic here in Atlanta. Clark has had an impressive career with 9 professional victories so far, including five recent wins on the Legends Tour including back-to-back titles at the Italian Open in 2017 and 2018 and last June's victory at Costa Navarino. We revisit his memorable T6 finish at the 1994 U.S. Open at Oakmont—a brutally hot week in Pittsburgh that played to his advantage as a native Texan. Clark also shares the incredible story of qualifying for both the 2023 U.S. Open and Senior U.S. Open on back-to-back days, earning medalist honors in each. With the Senior PGA Championship at Congressional on the horizon, we talk about his preparation for that event, and he reflects proudly on his son Will, who’s now caddying for rising PGA Tour star Sam Stevens, currently ranked inside the Top 100. It’s a fantastic conversation filled with great stories and insight from one of the game’s most seasoned pros.