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next on the tee

Golf

Each week I'm joined by Tour Legends and the Top Instructors in the game who share their stories, insights, and playing lessons. Hear what it was like playing on Tour during the golden age of the game. Plus get tips from the best Instructors in our game, so you score better, enjoy the game more, and leave your wallet in your pocket at the 19th hole. Check out our Web site, www.nextonthetee.net, to stay up-to-date with our guest schedule and other happenings with the show. Thank you for making the show a part of your weekly golf content.

Location:

Atlanta, GA

Description:

Each week I'm joined by Tour Legends and the Top Instructors in the game who share their stories, insights, and playing lessons. Hear what it was like playing on Tour during the golden age of the game. Plus get tips from the best Instructors in our game, so you score better, enjoy the game more, and leave your wallet in your pocket at the 19th hole. Check out our Web site, www.nextonthetee.net, to stay up-to-date with our guest schedule and other happenings with the show. Thank you for making the show a part of your weekly golf content.

Twitter:

@nxtonthetee

Language:

English

Contact:

6783869779


Episodes
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S12, Ep 51 Part 1: Designing Greatness: David Duval & Shane LeBaron on Building Olde Eight

11/12/2025
This week on Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two incredible guests —former World #1, 1999 Players Champion, and 2001 Open Champion David Duval, and Top Instructor and the first ever Director of Instruction at Cherry Hills Shane LeBaron, who’s been a great friend of the show for nearly a decade. Shane and David are teaming up on something VERY special down in Greenwood, South Carolina — the Olde Eight Golf Club and the amazing surrounding community they're building. They’re here to give us an inside look at the vision behind it and what's sure to be one of the great private communities in the country. We talk about what makes the course unique, its state-of-the-art practice facilities, and whether it might one day host a Tour event. You’ll also hear how David got involved in the project, what inspired its design (including a hole that might remind you of Augusta’s 12th), and how the two are building something far beyond your typical golf club experience. We also discuss the work that Shane and David have put in on David's game that has improved each of the last 4 seasons out on the Champions Tour — which resulted in multiple Top 10 finishes this season and a strong close at the Simmons Bank Championship and at the Furyk & Friends tournament. It’s a deep dive into design and passion for the game — straight from two guys who live and breathe golf. 🎧 Press play, settle in, and enjoy another great conversation on Next on the Tee.

Duration:00:43:54

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S12, Ep 50 Part 2: From Green to Tee: How Top 100 Teacher Scott Munroe Builds Better Golfers

11/9/2025
In Part 2 of Episode 50, I’m joined by Scott Munroe, Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher and one of the “Hoosiers” from the Two Hoosiers & a Hong crew. Scott is a longtime Teaching Professional at the ultra-exclusive Nantucket Golf Club in the summer. If you’ve ever wondered what golf looks like behind the gates of one of the most private clubs in the country, Scott takes us there. Nantucket has had members like Jack Welch and Bill Belichick, and the course was designed by our good friend Rees Jones, so the stories run deep. Scott also shares how he develops junior players in a way that may surprise you — teaching them backwards, starting on the putting green and working out toward the tee. It’s a strategy we also heard from our friend Eva Rogers. Scott explains why it helps kids understand scoring, feel, and confidence faster than any launch monitor ever could. We also talk about the unique culture among great coaches in golf: the freedom and willingness to share knowledge, not guard it. No “secret sauce.” No holding back. Just helping each other help more players enjoy the game. And before we wrap, Scott gives us a few simple home drills to keep your swing loose and active during the colder months, so you don’t feel like you’re starting over when spring rolls back around. It’s fun, insightful, and full of takeaways you can use right away. Scott is fantastic, you're going to love him.

Duration:00:27:28

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S12, Ep 50 Part 1: Qualifying Isn’t Guaranteed: Shaun Micheel on the Fight for the Champions Tour + US Kids Lifetime Master Teacher James Hong, The Next Generation Starts Here.

11/7/2025
Thank you for coming back and pressing play on this week's show. I’ve got a jam-packed episode featuring a major champion…and two of the most dedicated and respected teachers in our game. Leading things off is my great friend Shaun Micheel, the 2003 PGA Champion, and one of the very first guests to ever join this show. This marks Shaun’s 39th appearance here, and as always, he brings thoughtful insight and honesty. We get into just how tough it is to qualify for the Champions Tour — and why winning a major doesn’t automatically open that door. We also dive into how LIV has forced the PGA Tour to evolve, whether Shaun would consider playing if LIV launched a senior circuit, and we check in on how his Indiana Hoosiers have been surprising folks this football season. Then I’m joined by James Hong, a U.S. Kids Golf Lifetime Master Teacher, and one-third of the famed Two Hoosiers & a Hong trio. James gives us a fascinating look into coaching young players today — in a world where instant gratification, TrackMan numbers, and social comparison are everywhere. We talk expectations, patience, parents, and how to keep the fun and curiosity alive in junior golf. Be sure to come back for Part 2, because another one of the Hoosiers joins me — Scott Munroe, longtime Teaching Professional at the extremely exclusive Nantucket Golf Club. Scott shares what it’s like teaching at one of the most private clubs in America, how he earned the nickname “99,” and why he teaches juniors backwards — starting at the hole and working back to the tee. He also gives us some great drills to keep our swings sharp through the winter months. It’s an insightful and really fun episode — full of stories, wisdom, and a whole lot of passion for growing the game. Thanks as always for taking the journey with me.

Duration:01:01:48

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S12, Ep 49: Legends, Fitness, and the Power of Gratitude with John Cook & Courtney Weber

11/3/2025
Hi folks — and welcome in to this episode of Next on the Tee, where golf legends live and your game gets better! I’ve got two incredible guests joining me on this episode who continue to make a big impact on the game — and on how we enjoy it. First up is PGA Tour legend John Cook — U.S. Amateur Champion, 21-time winner across the PGA and Champions Tours, and one of the sharpest voices in golf broadcasting. John and I start off talking a little Ohio State football and how the Steelers already have their next franchise QB on their roster. We then move to how surprised I was that a 5 time Ryder Cup player didn’t get a mic for this year’s event (and should have), and why we’re both pumped about the return of the Skins Game. We also tackle one of my favorite debates — how players from John’s era would stack up against today’s stars. Spoiler: guys from the 70s & 80s would dominate IMO. Then, I’m joined by the incredibly talented Courtney Weber, a TPI Level 3 Certified Trainer and Golf Digest Certified Fitness Coach. She shares simple, effective ways to build strength, improve mobility, and get rid of those nagging aches that hold your swing back — even if you “hate leg day.” We talk ankle mobility, lower back stiffness, and yes, how to ditch the “dad bod” and find more Vitamin G — Gratitude. It’s a mix of stories, laughs, and real takeaways you can put to work — on and off the course. 🎧 Press play, enjoy the show, and as always, thank you for being the greatest supporters in the history of podcasts.

Duration:01:24:27

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S12, Ep 48 Part 2: More Distance Starts at Your Feet: The Sqairz Story with Bob Winskowicz

10/30/2025
On this week’s Next on the Tee, I’m joined by my good friend Bob Winskowicz, Founder and CEO of Sqairz Golf — the company changing the way athletes connect to the ground, generate power, and perform. We start by celebrating Sports Illustrated naming Sqairz the Top Performing Golf Shoe of 2025 — another huge milestone for a brand that just keeps innovating. Bob shares stories from his days working alongside Arnold Palmer as a Senior Vice President, how that relationship shaped his approach to product design, and how Sqairz continues to honor legends like Sir Nick Faldo with special edition releases. We also dive deep into the science behind the swing, discussing why the feet and knees are the true foundation of motion and power, and why the structure of a shoe — not flexibility — makes the biggest difference in distance and accuracy. Bob explains how Sqairz has expanded beyond golf into baseball, softball, and pickleball, where players are seeing real results: up to 9 MPH more exit velocity and a 70% improvement rate in swing power. From new styles and partnerships (like the Coastal Riptide) to game-changing performance data, Bob breaks down how one innovative design is redefining what athletes can expect from their footwear. And of course, we wrap it up talking about our shared love for the Boston Red Sox, and how a little extra ground force might be just what they need next season. If you’ve ever doubted whether shoes could change your game — this episode will make you think again.

Duration:00:52:14

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S12, Ep48 Part 1: When Fans Crossed the Line — and How to Stay Cool Over a 4-Footer with Tom Patri & Paul Horton

10/27/2025
This week on Next on the Tee, I’ve got an all-star lineup that spans championship memories, golf instruction excellence, and game-changing technology. We kick things off with our resident Director of Instruction Tom Patri, who returns to share his thoughts on the Ryder Cup and the recent uproar around fan behavior. Tom and I talk about the PGA of America’s late response to the controversy, what it might mean for the next Cup in Ireland, and why ticket prices didn't seem to make any difference in fan behavior. We also take a trip back to 1981 to relive his Florida Southern team’s Division II National Championship and future PGA stars — like Rocco Mediate, Lee Janzen, and Marco Dawson — who followed up that '81 team's championship with one of their own. Next up, I’m joined by one of Canada’s most decorated coaches, Paul Horton. Paul shares insights on what Brooke Henderson’s latest win means for Canadian golf, and he gives us valuable lessons to add distance off the tee, make those tricky 4–6 footers, and control pace on long putts. He also weighs in on whether we might see another round of unruly fan behavior when the Presidents Cup arrives at Medinah in 2026. Be sure to come back for Part 2, when my longtime friend Bob Winskowicz, Founder of Sqairz Golf, returns to take us inside the science of performance footwear. If you think Sqairz are just another pair of golf shoes, think again. Bob explains the data and common-sense design that prove why the squared-toe concept improves balance, stability, and power — now expanding beyond golf into baseball and pickleball. Like Sir Nick Faldo and so many top instructors, I’ve seen the difference first-hand, and once you try them, you’ll understand why I ditched every other pair of golf shoes that I owned. It’s a packed show full of knowledge, nostalgia, and new perspectives on how to play — and think — better golf.

Duration:01:10:54

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S12, Ep 47 Part 2: From Hogan to Palmer: The History & Heart of Oakmont with David Moore

10/22/2025
On Part 2 of Season 12, Episode 47 of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by David Moore, Curator of Collections at Oakmont Country Club and Co-Author of Battling the Church Pews: The History of Golf’s Premier Events in Western Pennsylvania. David takes us inside Oakmont’s history and heritage, reflecting on this year’s U.S. Open, how the course handled the rain, and why its challenge remains the ultimate test of skill and mental toughness. He also shares incredible stories about Ben Hogan’s 1953 Triple Crown season, Arnold Palmer’s legacy, and the 1975 Ryder Cup at Laurel Valley. It’s a fascinating look at golf’s golden history and the pride of Western Pennsylvania — from the fairways of Oakmont to the spirit of the King himself.

Duration:00:41:51

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S12, Ep 47 Part 1: From PGA Victories, Becoming a Better Putter, to Augusta National & Hurricane Recovery with Kenny Knox & Darren Davis

10/20/2025
On this week's episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by three incredible guests who bring stories, insights, and passion for the game from very different perspectives. We kick things off with three-time PGA Tour winner and short game guru Kenny Knox. Kenny captured titles at the 1986 Honda Classic, the 1987 Hardee’s Golf Classic, and the 1990 Buick Southern Open. He also set a putting record at the 1989 Heritage Classic — just 8 putts for 9 holes, 18 for the round, and 93 for the entire tournament! Kenny and I dive into why the European Ryder Cup team consistently putts lights out, why he believes Bethpage was poorly setup for the Americans, and who he thinks should be the next U.S. Captain. We also revisit some of the grueling conditions he faced during his Tour wins and what it took to grind out victories under pressure. Next, I’m joined by Darren Davis, longtime Superintendent at Olde Florida Golf Club in Naples, Florida. Darren came highly recommended by my great friend Tom Wildenhaus, the club’s Director of Instruction — and when Wildy says “you need to talk to this guy,” you listen. Darren studied Agronomy at Penn State, completed an apprenticeship at Augusta National, and has been leading course operations at Olde Florida for an incredible 33 years. He shares what it’s like to maintain world-class course conditions while facing the challenges of South Florida weather — from extreme heat to afternoon storms — and how his team has recovered from devastating hurricanes over the years. Darren’s stories of resilience, leadership, and love for the game are truly inspiring. It’s a fantastic mix of Tour-level insight, behind-the-scenes expertise, and heartfelt storytelling that reminds us why we all love this game. Be sure to come back for Part 2 of the episode featuring my conversation with David Moore, Oakmont's Curator of Collections and Co-Author of Battling the Church Pews, The History of Golf's Premier Events in Western Pennsylvania.

Duration:01:05:30

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S12, Ep46 Part 2: Augusta Days & Banyan Nights with David Eby

10/16/2025
Making his Next on the Tee debut is David Eby, Director of Golf at Banyan Golf Club in Palm Beach, Florida, where he’s been leading the charge for nearly 30 years. David’s journey through the game is a great story of passion, hard work, and lifelong dedication to golf. He played his college golf at Augusta University (then Augusta College) from 1986–1989, earning a degree in Economics and helping the team capture multiple tournament titles, including the 1987 Big South Conference Championship. During those years, he also had the unique opportunity to caddie at Augusta National, looping for several notable people like Don Shula, Peter Ueberroth, and Jack Welch. He even got to play the course himself—a dream few golfers ever realize. After college, David began his professional career as an Assistant Golf Pro at Augusta National, followed by a move to Pine Valley as First Assistant Pro, then becoming Head Golf Professional at Cedar Point Club in Virginia. Before long, he found his home at Banyan Golf Club, where he’s built one of the finest golf environments in South Florida. In our conversation, David reflects on his experiences at legendary venues like Moraine Country Club (site of Byron Nelson’s 1945 PGA win), shares great stories from his college days—including a Joe Namath like experience while playing a tournament at Furman. He then offers insights on how technology has reshaped the game. We also discuss Banyan’s world-class facilities, designed by Joe Lee, and how their state-of-the-art practice area rivals even Augusta National’s. David’s stories span from Augusta to Palm Beach, filled with heart, history, and lessons that remind us why we love this game.

Duration:00:32:54

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S12, Ep 46 Part 1: Ryder Cup Real Talk & Mental Game Mastery with Ron Sirak & Jeff Smith

10/14/2025
Welcome back to Next on the Tee, where golf legends live and your game gets better. This week’s lineup is one that’s sure to knock your socks off. Leading things off is the man I consider to be the greatest golf writer of this or any generation, Ron Sirak. Ron joined me recently, and I couldn’t wait to bring him back. This time, he breaks down what we saw—and heard—at the Ryder Cup. Ron shares his thoughts on Europe’s decision to “run it back” with Luke Donald and we could see this same team until the U.S. proves it can beat them. We also discuss whether it’s time for the US team to look outside of golf for its next captain—someone who’s more motivator than buddy. And since Ron’s a proud Western Pennsylvania native, we couldn’t resist mixing in a little Steelers talk too. Then, Top 100 Instructor Jeff Smith makes his fourth appearance on the show. Jeff, one of the most sought-after coaches in the game, is currently based at The Vintage Club in Indian Wells, California. We cover his thoughts on the Ryder Cup, joke about a Sam Wyche–style reminder that European fans might need in 2027 (“You don’t live in New York!”), and dive into Jeff’s insights on the mental side of golf—how to stop overthinking and why failure often teaches what success cannot. Be sure to come back for Part 2 when David Eby makes his Next on the Tee debut. David played his college golf at Augusta University—known then as Augusta College—where he and his teammates helped build the foundation for the program that would later win back-to-back national championships with the likes of Patrick Reed. While in college, David also caddied at Augusta National, where he looped for some of sports biggest names and even got to tee it up there himself. After stints as an Assistant Pro in Ohio and Virginia, David has spent nearly three decades at Banyan Golf Club in Palm Beach, Florida, and he brings with him a treasure trove of stories you won’t want to miss. So settle in and enjoy another great week of golf talk, laughs, and great tips here on Next on the Tee.

Duration:01:11:03

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S12, Ep45 Part 2: Paul Ollinger: From Facebook Exec to Stand-Up & Being Reasonably Happy

10/9/2025
Making his Next on the Tee debut is comedian, author, and former Facebook executive Paul Ollinger. Paul is the host of The Reasonably Happy Podcast and the author of Reasonably Happy: Essays on Money, Work, and Other Things That Piss Me Off. Before turning to stand-up comedy and writing, Paul served as VP of Sales at Facebook, leading one of the most successful teams in the tech world. In our conversation, Paul shares the story behind his unlikely journey—from corporate boardrooms with Mark Zuckerberg to comedy clubs where the only bottom line is laughter. He talks about the moment he decided to leave the corporate grind for the stage, the lessons he’s learned from both worlds, and what “reasonable happiness” really means. We discuss how much financial stability you need before chasing a dream, why fear and money often hold people back, and how to take that first step toward a more fulfilling life. Paul also shares insights from his book, including why Denmark consistently ranks as one of the world’s happiest countries, what our pandemic obsession with toilet paper says about us, and the humor behind a chapter titled Nightmare on the Back Nine. And yes—he even confesses how his golf index jumped after buying a Jailbird putter. It’s a fun, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation with a man who’s lived life on both sides of success—and learned that happiness isn’t about what you earn, but what you love doing.

Duration:00:27:27

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S12, Ep45 Part 1: Golf Positive with Debbie O’Connell + Ryder Cup History & Stories with Hank Gola

10/1/2025
On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two outstanding guests who bring incredible insight from different corners of the golf world. First, LPGA Class A Professional and Top 50 Instructor Debbie O’Connell returns to share her passion for helping players strengthen both their game and their mindset. Debbie is the founder of Golf Positive and the author of Golf Positive…Live Positive: Lessons in Golf and Life. She’s been recognized with multiple LPGA honors, including the inaugural Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award, and continues to inspire golfers everywhere through her teaching, writing, and her “Conquer Your Golf Mind” program. Debbie joins me to talk about her latest projects, the importance of mental preparation, and practical tips for getting your mind prepared to play your best, plus some stretches to get your body ready to play, and how to keep from embedding negative thoughts into your brain. Then, I welcome award-winning journalist and author Hank Gola for his Next on the Tee debut. Over his career, Hank has covered golf, football, and soccer for the New York Post and the Daily News, earning multiple awards from the Golf Writers Association of America, as well as the prestigious Lincoln Werden Award for golf journalism. He’s also authored several acclaimed books, including Ryder Cup Rivals: The Fiercest Battles for Golf’s Holy Grail. Hank and I dive deep into Ryder Cup history starting in 1927, the money Walter Hagan brought into the game, the 1991 War By The Shore, and the incredible US comeback at The Country Club in 1999. It’s a fantastic mix of instruction, inspiration, and history with two people whose impact on the game runs deep. Be sure to come back for Part 2 featuring my conversation with Comedian and the Host of the Reasonably Happy Podcast, Paul Ollinger.

Duration:01:03:21

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S12, Ep44 Part 2: Pressure at Oakmont & the Ryder Cup from John Mahaffey Plus Dr. Russell Levenson's, Witness To Belief

9/29/2025
On this episode of Next on the Tee, I welcome back one of my all-time favorite guests, 1978 PGA Champion John Mahaffey, making his 10th appearance on the show. John and I revisit his special connection to Oakmont, the site of his major championship win, and he shares how the course has evolved since his 1978 PGA Championship victory there. I also get his perspective on JJ Spaun’s U.S. Open victory before shifting gears to the Ryder Cup. John takes us inside his experience on the victorious 1979 team, recalling what it was like being paired with Lee Elder and Hale Irwin, facing Brian Barnes in singles, and handling the pressure of that opening tee shot on Friday. We finish up with a couple of wonderful Ben Hogan stories that you won’t want to miss, plus how he was able to successfully transition careers from play to broadcasting. I round out the episode with another very special friend of the show, Dr. Russell Levenson. Russ radiates positivity and spirituality, something that shines through every time he speaks. Last time, we talked about his book Witness to Dignity and his friendship with President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush. Now, Russ shares insights from his upcoming book, Witness to Belief: Conversations on Faith & Meaning, which features powerful conversations with 12 extraordinary individuals, including Condoleezza Rice, Denzel Washington, Amy Grant, Jane Goodall, and Dr. Francis Collins. His warmth, wisdom, and storytelling will leave you feeling uplifted and filled with positive vibes.

Duration:01:33:50

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S12, Ep 44 Part 1: Brian Klocek, Director of Golf at Totteridge Plus The Keep & the Legend that is Rees Jones

9/28/2025
In this episode of Next on the Tee, we kick things off with Brian Klocek, Director of Golf at Totteridge, a course that golfers across Western Pennsylvania know and love. Brian shares the journey of his career, starting with his college days at the Golf Academy of America in Myrtle Beach, to South Hills Country Club just outside downtown Pittsburgh, and now leading operations at Totteridge in Greensburg—the hometown of recent guest Rocco Mediate. We also talk about Totteridge’s 13th hole, which KDKA TV recently highlighted as one of their “Elite 18” in Western Pennsylvania, along with Brian’s take on other favorite courses around the region. The focus on Totteridge continues in segment two with my guest, the legendary course designer Rees Jones. Rees is one of the most influential architects in the game, with an unmatched résumé that includes seven U.S. Open sites, eight PGA Championship courses, five Ryder Cup venues—including Bethpage Black—plus Walker Cup and Presidents Cup courses. Rees takes us inside his redesign work at Bethpage Black and the incredible job he and Bill Bergin did at The McLemore on Lookout Mountain, a world-class golf destination that features one of the best finishing holes in the game. Now their newest course, The Keep, is earning rave reviews and, in Rees’ opinion, has the potential to host a major championship one day. We also highlight a few of my other favorite Rees Jones designs, including The Country Club in Boston, Oyster Reef on Hilton Head, Southbridge in Savannah, and Falcons Fire in Orlando. This episode is a celebration of great golf design and storytelling, featuring one of Pittsburgh’s finest in Brian Klocek and one of the true legends of the game in Rees Jones.

Duration:00:55:44

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S12, E43 Part 2: Zig Fracassi on Crosby’s Penguins, Tage Thompson, Olympic Gold & NFL Surprises

9/25/2025
Back with me this week is a true class act and a member of our Thursday Night Tailgate Guest Hall of Fame—Sirius/XM NFL Radio and NHL Radio host, Zig Fracassi. Zig’s reputation as one of the finest interviewers in the business is well earned, and I’ve long said it’s a mystery how he doesn’t already have millions of followers on social media. His insights into both football and hockey are second to none, and his character is even better. In this segment, Zig and I dive into the state of the Pittsburgh Penguins, where Sidney Crosby continues to shine but Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang are showing their age. We discuss whether it’s finally time to break up the Penguins’ big three and the impact of Erik Karlsson’s contract. From there, we turn to Buffalo and the rise of Tage Thompson, before looking ahead to the Winter Olympics—can the U.S. finally get past Canada, and who else could contend for gold? Then we shift gears to the NFL, where Aaron Rodgers made headlines by signing with the Steelers and silenced some doubters with his Week 1 performance against his former team. Zig also weighs in on the Dallas Cowboys and shocks me to announcing they are no longer his favorite team. We unpack Jerry Jones’ surprising decision to move on from Micah Parsons, one of the best defensive players in the game. If you're not already following Zig on X @zigsportsvoice, do it because you're missing out on great insights and a very special human being.

Duration:00:27:45

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S12, Ep 43 Part 1: Lower Scores, Smarter Swings, Fixing the FedEx Cup, & a Ryder Cup Preview with John Hughes & Rob Strano

9/24/2025
On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two of the game’s top instructors, each bringing their own brand of expertise, innovation, and insight to help us all play better and enjoy the game more. First, PGA Master Professional John Hughes returns for his 6th appearance. As a Master Professional, John is in the top 1.5% of all PGA Professionals. He's also a Top 25 Instructor with Golf Tips Magazine, and the 2023 North Florida PGA Section Teacher of the Year. He shares a preview of his soon-to-be-released book, Instant Golf Improvement: The 6 Pillars to Golf Success, which offers a realistic path to better golf without overhauling your swing. John also gives us valuable tips on target acquisition, proper driver stance, handling uneven lies, improving launch angle and spin rates, sharpening our chipping technique, and eliminating costly three-putts. Then, my gumba Rob Strano stops by. Rob is one of the most creative teachers in the game, the former host of The Golf Kingdom TV show, and his new Golf Academy is now open in Destin, Florida. Rob shares his candid thoughts on how to truly fix the FedEx Cup format, if the PGA Tour needs a playoff system at all, and what he’s most looking forward to about the Ryder Cup. Rob gives us a look at the innovative tools and training available at his new academy. It’s an episode packed with playing lessons, fresh ideas, and insights from two of the best minds in golf instruction.

Duration:01:03:09

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S12, Ep 42: The Steelers, Super Bowls, and the game of golf—Trai Essex connects them all with powerful insights.

9/21/2025
On this bonus segment of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by 2x Super Bowl Champion Trai Essex. A third-round pick out of Northwestern, Trai spent most of his NFL career with the Steelers, helping them to three Super Bowl appearances and two championships. Now you can hear his insights alongside Charlie Batch on their show The Snap Count. We dive deep into the current state of the Steelers—offensive line struggles, whether it’s youth or poor technique holding them back, and why the run game has failed to click despite significant draft and free-agent investments. Trai breaks down the differences he experienced under line coaches Russ Grimm, Larry Zierlein, and Sean Kugler, and what it really takes to command respect in the trenches. We also discuss defensive lapses, Mike Tomlin’s leadership, and why red-zone play calling isn’t maximizing the talent of 6’8” tight end “Mount Washington.” Since this is a golf show, we talk about Trai’s love for the game, his round at Chicopee Woods in Georgia, when he first picked up the sport, and some of his favorite golf memories. Trai shares both his football and golf perspectives with the same candid insight that makes him a great follow on Twitter @TraiDay79 and a must-listen on The Snap Count.

Duration:00:39:47

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From The Final Broadcast to The Sports Time Traveler: Tucker Booth & Len Ferman Join Me

9/18/2025
On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two outstanding storytellers who bring both creativity and history to the game. First, my good friend Tucker Booth returns to the show. Tucker is a professional entertainer, writer, rapper, and host of the podcast Rappers Don’t Golf. As an author, he’s collaborated on powerful projects, including Trouble Maker with Lisa Cromwell and most recently The Final Broadcast, co-written with Michael Whelan. That book, already earning five-star reviews on Amazon, is a deeply emotional, semi-biographical story that explores resilience, friendship, and the impact of cancer. Tucker and I talk about the process of blending his voice with Mike’s, why they chose a fictionalized narrative, the powerful imagery behind the book’s most moving scenes, and what they hope readers will take away. Then, I welcome Len Ferman for his Next on the Tee debut. Known as The Sports Time Traveler from his popular podcast, Len is also the author of Great Golf Tournaments Volume 1 and The 1973 Mets: You Gotta Believe. A lifelong researcher and storyteller, he shares fascinating golf history—from Jack Nicklaus’ brilliance at the 1975 Masters, to Joe Louis breaking barriers as the first African American to play in a PGA Tour event, to Sam Snead competing at the highest level well into his 60s. We also revisit stories about Chi Chi Rodriguez, Dave Stockton, the Big 3 of Nicklaus, Palmer, and Player, and even a time Len discovered a very important error in the New York Times about a score that Johnny Miller shot. It’s an episode filled with passion, perspective, and powerful storytelling—one that connects the emotion of today with the history that shaped the game.

Duration:01:35:11

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S12, Ep 40: 6x Hall of Famer Jim McLean Talks US Open, Ryder Cup, & Bethpage + Steve Shingledecker's RMU Men's Golf Team Is On The Rise

9/16/2025
On this bonus edition of Next on the Tee, I’m thrilled to be joined by two outstanding guests who are making a major impact on the game. First up is legendary instructor Jim McLean, one of the most decorated teachers in golf history and a 2025 inductee into the PGA of America Hall of Fame. Jim reflects on the honor, his extraordinary playing career that included being one of the rare players to ever play in the U.S. Junior AM, U.S. Amateur, U.S. Open, and U.S. Senior Open. He was a part of the UH team that won the 1970 Natty. As an Instructor, he was an early adopter of technology like video analysis and TrackMan. We talk about all of that plus his student James Nicholas, who impressed at this year’s U.S. Open at Oakmont by shooting an opening round 69. Jim also shares lessons from his archives, the debate around “swinging left,” and what he’s most looking forward to at the Ryder Cup at Bethpage. Then I catch up with my favorite college golf coach, Robert Morris Head Men’s Golf Coach Steve Shingledecker. Steve has transformed the Colonials into a rising contender. We revisit their best-ever Horizon League finish, the confidence it created, and standout play from Chuck Tragresser, who earned his first win at the Western PA Spring Stroke Play and finished runner-up at the WPGA Open. Steve updates us on the hard work the rest of the team’s roster has put in that will have them contending this season for tournament titles and individual medalist honors. We break down their fall and spring schedule, plus Steve shares how the energy started by the RMU basketball team's run in the NCAA tournament is fueling excitement around the golf program. Two great conversations this week filled with stories, lessons, and inspiration for players and fans alike.

Duration:01:17:28

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S12, Episode 39 Part 2: Stepping Into Greatness: Matt Cahill’s Path from Junior Golf to Seminole

9/12/2025
In Part 2 of Season 12, Episode 39, I’m joined by Matt Cahill, the man chosen by the legendary Bob Ford himself to succeed him as Head PGA Professional at Seminole Golf Club. When Ford retired, his short list for the role had just one name—and Club President Jimmy Dunne agreed. Matt shares his perspective on what it’s like working for two icons of the game and answers the fun question: who’s tougher to impress—Bob Ford or Jimmy Dunne? Beyond being a world-class professional, Matt is also a terrific player. He takes us back to his junior days competing in the Junior Team Championship, the U.S. Junior Amateur, the U.S. Amateur, and even teeing it up at the PGA Championship a couple of years ago at Oak Hill. You’ll hear some of his favorite memories from those events, the incredible fields he competed against, plus what it was like working at Shoal Creek, Oakmont, Shinnecock Hills as part of the team that hosted the 2018 U.S. Open, and now at Seminole. Matt is so much fun. He is a great player, but he's an even better person. It comes shining through during our conversation. I know you're going to love that and him.

Duration:00:29:49