app02 Wed, 30 Sep 2026 21:58:53 +0000 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) The ModGolf Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Business Podcast” https://modgolf.fireside.fm/tags/business%20podcast Thu, 24 Sep 2026 05:30:00 -0700 The ModGolf Podcast talks with golf's top influencers, entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors about their vision and ventures that are re-imagining, transforming and growing both the game and $250 billion/year global industry. The ModGolf Podcast has been ranked #4 on 2025 most comprehensive list of Top 25 Golf Podcasts, based on our quality and consistency of posts, industry expert reviews and social media influence/popularity. Please subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast to help us grow and move up the rankings in 2026! We'd love to hear from you! Have any ideas or guests you'd like to hear on future episodes? Contact Colin directly here or on Instagram @modgolfpodcast to start the conversation. en-us episodic Host Colin Weston explores the future of golf through conversations with the entrepreneurs, visionaries and influencers who are shaking up the sport. ModSport Media Inc. The ModGolf Podcast talks with golf's top influencers, entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors about their vision and ventures that are re-imagining, transforming and growing both the game and $250 billion/year global industry. The ModGolf Podcast has been ranked #4 on 2025 most comprehensive list of Top 25 Golf Podcasts, based on our quality and consistency of posts, industry expert reviews and social media influence/popularity. Please subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast to help us grow and move up the rankings in 2026! We'd love to hear from you! Have any ideas or guests you'd like to hear on future episodes? Contact Colin directly here or on Instagram @modgolfpodcast to start the conversation. no golf, golf podcast, ModGolf, ModGolf Podcast, sport tech, golf improvement, golf equipment, sport business, golf innovation, golf entertainment, YouTube golf, entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship, golf influencers, women in golf, diversity and inclusion ModSport Media Inc. colin@modgolfpodcast.com Attitude is Everything - How Kay McMahon Empowers Women In The Golf Industry https://modgolf.fireside.fm/228-kay-mcmahon 45048576-37e2-416e-8b63-7d01085745c2 Thu, 24 Sep 2026 05:30:00 -0700 ModSport Media Inc. full 20 ModSport Media Inc. Host Colin Weston sits down with LPGA Hall of Fame instructor Kay McMahon - President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI) and creator of the Golf 8.5 teaching system - to explore her groundbreaking approach to golf instruction, her trailblazing career as one of the first female PGA professionals, and her mission to make golf more inclusive for women and beginners. Whether you're searching for the best golf podcasts, golf swing tips, LPGA insights, women's golf advocacy, or ways to improve your game and pace of play, this conversation delivers must-hear wisdom from one of golf's most influential teachers and entrepreneurs. Kay McMahon - president of Women in the Golf Industry / LPGA Hall of Fame Instructor / creator of Golf 8.5 37:43 no <p>What if everything we've been taught about how to teach golf is backwards? What if the reason millions of golfers struggle isn't their lack of talent, but the way the game has been explained to them? And what if one woman, who's been challenging golf's conventions for over four decades, has the answers that could transform your game and the entire industry?</p> <p>In this compelling episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with <strong>Kay McMahon</strong>, a true force of nature in the golf world. Kay is a member of the <strong>LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame</strong>, an <strong>LPGA Elite Top 50 Best Teacher</strong>, a <strong>PGA member</strong>, the President of <strong>Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI)</strong> , and the creator of the revolutionary <strong>Golf 8.5 teaching system</strong>. </p> <p>From her humble beginnings putting on a homemade three-hole golf course built by her innovative father in their cul-de-sac (complete with a lemonade stand that taught her entrepreneurship at age five), to playing in three U.S. Opens and working alongside Arnold Palmer at Ironwood Country Club for a decade, Kay's journey is nothing short of remarkable.</p> <p>But this conversation isn't just a trip down memory lane - it's a masterclass in challenging the status quo, building inclusive communities, and reimagining how we teach and experience the game of golf. Whether you're a frustrated golfer stuck at the same handicap for years, a golf industry professional, or someone who cares about making the sport more welcoming to everyone, this episode will leave you inspired and armed with actionable insights.</p> <p><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/CCLNSJoy.jpg" alt=""></p> <hr> <h3><strong>Three Key Takeaways you'll discover:</strong></h3> <p><strong>1. The Golf 8.5 System: Why "Simple" Beats "Complicated" Every Time</strong><br> Discover why traditional golf instruction has been teaching the setup positions in the wrong order for decades, and how Kay's breakthrough system - built on cognitive learning principles and "chunking" - can help you retain 300% more of what you learn. You'll learn why there are only four things to do before the swing and four-and-a-half things during it, and how this approach can shave 15-25 seconds off every shot (that's a half-hour round!) while dramatically improving your consistency.</p> <p><strong>2. The Power of Connection: How WIGI is Amplifying Women's Voices in Golf</strong><br> Learn how the Women in The Golf Industry organization, founded in 2001 by 11 pioneering women, has become a vital network for connecting resources, mentorship, and opportunities across all facets of the golf industry - from tour professionals and golf architects to media members and entrepreneurs. Kay shares how the organization embraces a two-way mentoring model where seasoned professionals and young newcomers learn from each other, and why having a unified voice matters in an industry where women represent only 5-10% of professionals.</p> <p><strong>3. Confronting Golf's Uncomfortable Truths: The Callaway/Good Good Controversy and Beyond</strong><br> In the wake of the controversial Callaway and Good Good video that sparked industry-wide outcry, Kay offers her thoughtful perspective on the "unacceptable undercurrent culture" that still exists in golf. Rather than simply condemning, she advocates for recognizing these moments as opportunities to change the conversation, ask "what were they thinking?" and work toward building a more inclusive, respectful sport for everyone, while acknowledging the many men who are supportive allies in this effort.</p> <hr> <h3>💬 <strong>Inspiring Quotes from Kay McMahon</strong></h3> <p><strong>"I said, 'I'm really sorry that all the members keep talking to you and interrupting how you practice.' And he looked at me very closely in the eye and said, 'Just remember the reason that you and I are here is because there are fans.'"</strong><br> — <em>Kay sharing a life-changing lesson from Arnold Palmer about humility and gratitude</em></p> <p><strong>"We never get to where we are alone. I ended by saying, and guess what? I just spun The Game of Life again and I ended up on the Hall of Fame."</strong><br> — <em>Kay reflecting on her Hall of Fame speech, where she honored the many women who mentored and supported her journey</em></p> <p><strong>"Keep your head up because it's all in the attitude, and I promise your scores will come down."</strong><br> — <em>Kay's signature advice to golfers everywhere</em></p> <hr> <p>Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Kay on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/BpNnTpnOByg" rel="nofollow noopener">The ModGolf YouTube channel</a></strong>. Click on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/BpNnTpnOByg" rel="nofollow noopener">this link</a></strong> or the image below to watch.</p> <p><a href="https://youtu.be/BpNnTpnOByg" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/46Y1-Wxl.jpg" alt=""></a> </p> <h3>Episode Chapters</h3> <p><strong>00:14</strong> Welcome to ModGolf: Host Colin Weston introduces Kay McMahon<br> <strong>01:16</strong> Kay's First Golf Experience: How her father built a golf course in the cul-de-sac<br> <strong>04:30</strong> An Overview of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI): Mission, history, and impact<br> <strong>09:00</strong> International Reach and Mentorship: How WIGI connects women globally<br> <strong>12:45</strong> The Callaway/Good Good Controversy: Kay's perspective on the industry's response<br> <strong>18:30</strong> Partnerships That Matter: How WIGI collaborates with Women's Golf Day and other organizations<br> <strong>22:00</strong> Becoming a PGA Professional: Kay's journey through nine qualifying schools and three U.S. Opens<br> <strong>25:44</strong> Stories of Arnold Palmer: Lessons in humility, ethics, and treating people right<br> <strong>27:43</strong> Influential Women in Kay's Life: Shirley Spork, Pat Lang, and the "Game of Life"<br> <strong>29:54</strong> Making Golf More Inclusive: What clubs get wrong and how to fix it<br> <strong>32:30</strong> The Golf 8.5 System Explained: Four setup positions, four-and-a-half swing thoughts<br> <strong>37:12</strong> Closing Thoughts and Final Advice: "Keep your head up"</p> <hr> <h3><strong>About Kay McMahon</strong></h3> <p><strong>Kay McMahon</strong> is a pioneering figure in the golf industry with a career spanning over four decades. She is:</p> <ul> <li> A member of the <strong>LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame</strong></li> <li> An <strong>LPGA Elite Top 50 Best Teacher</strong></li> <li> A <strong>PGA member</strong></li> <li> <strong>President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI)</strong></li> <li> <strong>Creator of the Golf 8.5 teaching system</strong></li> <li> Founder of <strong>EduKaytion Golf</strong> (a clever play on her name and her passion for education)</li> <li> Former National President of the LPGA Teaching &amp; Club Professionals</li> <li> Played in 3 USGA Women’s Opens and competed in nine LPGA qualifying schools</li> <li> Worked alongside Arnold Palmer at Ironwood Country Club in Palm Desert, California for 10 years</li> </ul> <h3><strong>Connect with Kay McMahon &amp; WIGI</strong></h3> <ul> <li> <strong>Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI)</strong> : <a href="https://womeninthegolfindustry.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">womeninthegolfindustry.com</a></li> <li> <strong>Join WIGI</strong>: Look for the "Join" button on the website</li> <li> <strong>Junior Membership</strong>: Only $25/year for teenagers (and can be waived if needed)</li> <li> <strong>Contact Kay directly</strong>: <a href="mailto:president@womeninthegolfindustry.com" rel="nofollow noopener">president@womeninthegolfindustry.com</a> or <a href="mailto:kay@edukaytiongolf.com" rel="nofollow noopener">kay@edukaytiongolf.com</a></li> <li> <strong>EduKaytion Golf and Golf 8.5</strong>: <a href="https://www.edukaytiongolf.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">edukaytiongolf.com</a></li> </ul> <hr> <p>We want to thank <strong>Big Swing Media</strong> for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast!<br> <a href="https://www.BigSwingMedia.news" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/6EOfEqoG.jpg" alt=""></a><br> Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. <strong>The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief</strong> tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code <strong>MODGOLF26</strong>. Visit <a href="https://www.BigSwingMedia.news" rel="nofollow noopener">BigSwingMedia.news</a> to subscribe.</p> <hr> <p><strong>About The ModGolf Podcast:</strong> Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.</p> <h3><strong>Join the ModGolf Community</strong></h3> <p><strong>Subscribe</strong> to The ModGolf Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen in.<br> <strong>Become a Patron!</strong>: Join our ModGolf Patreon community at <a href="https://patreon.com/ModGolf" rel="nofollow noopener">patreon.com/ModGolf</a> for exclusive content and entry in our ModGolf Giveaway contests. Special Guest: Kay McMahon - President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI) and creator of the Golf 8.5 teaching system.</p> modgolf podcast, golf business, Kay McMahon, golf teacher, golf coach, golf podcast, business podcast, Women In The Golf Industry, Golf 8.5, golf for women, womens golf, LPGA, golf innovator, golf venture, golf entertainment, PGA Show, golf entrepreneur, golf industry, modgolf, entrepreneurship, best golf podcasts, LPGA Hall of Fame, women's golf, WIGI, golf instruction, golf swing tips, golf lessons, how to improve your golf game, golf teaching system, beginner golf tips, pace of play, women in sports, golf industry diversity, PGA professional, Arnold Palmer stories, golf entrepreneurship, inclusive golf, Colin Weston, EduKaytion Golf, LPGA teacher, golf coaching, simplify your golf swing, golf setup tips, golf mindset, golf culture change What if everything we've been taught about how to teach golf is backwards? What if the reason millions of golfers struggle isn't their lack of talent, but the way the game has been explained to them? And what if one woman, who's been challenging golf's conventions for over four decades, has the answers that could transform your game and the entire industry?

In this compelling episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with Kay McMahon, a true force of nature in the golf world. Kay is a member of the LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame, an LPGA Elite Top 50 Best Teacher, a PGA member, the President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI) , and the creator of the revolutionary Golf 8.5 teaching system.

From her humble beginnings putting on a homemade three-hole golf course built by her innovative father in their cul-de-sac (complete with a lemonade stand that taught her entrepreneurship at age five), to playing in three U.S. Opens and working alongside Arnold Palmer at Ironwood Country Club for a decade, Kay's journey is nothing short of remarkable.

But this conversation isn't just a trip down memory lane - it's a masterclass in challenging the status quo, building inclusive communities, and reimagining how we teach and experience the game of golf. Whether you're a frustrated golfer stuck at the same handicap for years, a golf industry professional, or someone who cares about making the sport more welcoming to everyone, this episode will leave you inspired and armed with actionable insights.

Three Key Takeaways you'll discover:

1. The Golf 8.5 System: Why "Simple" Beats "Complicated" Every Time
Discover why traditional golf instruction has been teaching the setup positions in the wrong order for decades, and how Kay's breakthrough system - built on cognitive learning principles and "chunking" - can help you retain 300% more of what you learn. You'll learn why there are only four things to do before the swing and four-and-a-half things during it, and how this approach can shave 15-25 seconds off every shot (that's a half-hour round!) while dramatically improving your consistency.

2. The Power of Connection: How WIGI is Amplifying Women's Voices in Golf
Learn how the Women in The Golf Industry organization, founded in 2001 by 11 pioneering women, has become a vital network for connecting resources, mentorship, and opportunities across all facets of the golf industry - from tour professionals and golf architects to media members and entrepreneurs. Kay shares how the organization embraces a two-way mentoring model where seasoned professionals and young newcomers learn from each other, and why having a unified voice matters in an industry where women represent only 5-10% of professionals.

3. Confronting Golf's Uncomfortable Truths: The Callaway/Good Good Controversy and Beyond
In the wake of the controversial Callaway and Good Good video that sparked industry-wide outcry, Kay offers her thoughtful perspective on the "unacceptable undercurrent culture" that still exists in golf. Rather than simply condemning, she advocates for recognizing these moments as opportunities to change the conversation, ask "what were they thinking?" and work toward building a more inclusive, respectful sport for everyone, while acknowledging the many men who are supportive allies in this effort.

💬 Inspiring Quotes from Kay McMahon

"I said, 'I'm really sorry that all the members keep talking to you and interrupting how you practice.' And he looked at me very closely in the eye and said, 'Just remember the reason that you and I are here is because there are fans.'"
— Kay sharing a life-changing lesson from Arnold Palmer about humility and gratitude

"We never get to where we are alone. I ended by saying, and guess what? I just spun The Game of Life again and I ended up on the Hall of Fame."
— Kay reflecting on her Hall of Fame speech, where she honored the many women who mentored and supported her journey

"Keep your head up because it's all in the attitude, and I promise your scores will come down."
— Kay's signature advice to golfers everywhere

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Kay on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

Episode Chapters

00:14 Welcome to ModGolf: Host Colin Weston introduces Kay McMahon
01:16 Kay's First Golf Experience: How her father built a golf course in the cul-de-sac
04:30 An Overview of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI): Mission, history, and impact
09:00 International Reach and Mentorship: How WIGI connects women globally
12:45 The Callaway/Good Good Controversy: Kay's perspective on the industry's response
18:30 Partnerships That Matter: How WIGI collaborates with Women's Golf Day and other organizations
22:00 Becoming a PGA Professional: Kay's journey through nine qualifying schools and three U.S. Opens
25:44 Stories of Arnold Palmer: Lessons in humility, ethics, and treating people right
27:43 Influential Women in Kay's Life: Shirley Spork, Pat Lang, and the "Game of Life"
29:54 Making Golf More Inclusive: What clubs get wrong and how to fix it
32:30 The Golf 8.5 System Explained: Four setup positions, four-and-a-half swing thoughts
37:12 Closing Thoughts and Final Advice: "Keep your head up"

About Kay McMahon

Kay McMahon is a pioneering figure in the golf industry with a career spanning over four decades. She is:

  • A member of the LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame
  • An LPGA Elite Top 50 Best Teacher
  • A PGA member
  • President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI)
  • Creator of the Golf 8.5 teaching system
  • Founder of EduKaytion Golf (a clever play on her name and her passion for education)
  • Former National President of the LPGA Teaching & Club Professionals
  • Played in 3 USGA Women’s Opens and competed in nine LPGA qualifying schools
  • Worked alongside Arnold Palmer at Ironwood Country Club in Palm Desert, California for 10 years

Connect with Kay McMahon & WIGI

We want to thank Big Swing Media for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast!

Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code MODGOLF26. Visit BigSwingMedia.news to subscribe.

About The ModGolf Podcast: Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.

Join the ModGolf Community

Subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen in.
Become a Patron!: Join our ModGolf Patreon community at patreon.com/ModGolf for exclusive content and entry in our ModGolf Giveaway contests.

Special Guest: Kay McMahon - President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI) and creator of the Golf 8.5 teaching system.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> What if everything we've been taught about how to teach golf is backwards? What if the reason millions of golfers struggle isn't their lack of talent, but the way the game has been explained to them? And what if one woman, who's been challenging golf's conventions for over four decades, has the answers that could transform your game and the entire industry?

In this compelling episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with Kay McMahon, a true force of nature in the golf world. Kay is a member of the LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame, an LPGA Elite Top 50 Best Teacher, a PGA member, the President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI) , and the creator of the revolutionary Golf 8.5 teaching system.

From her humble beginnings putting on a homemade three-hole golf course built by her innovative father in their cul-de-sac (complete with a lemonade stand that taught her entrepreneurship at age five), to playing in three U.S. Opens and working alongside Arnold Palmer at Ironwood Country Club for a decade, Kay's journey is nothing short of remarkable.

But this conversation isn't just a trip down memory lane - it's a masterclass in challenging the status quo, building inclusive communities, and reimagining how we teach and experience the game of golf. Whether you're a frustrated golfer stuck at the same handicap for years, a golf industry professional, or someone who cares about making the sport more welcoming to everyone, this episode will leave you inspired and armed with actionable insights.

Three Key Takeaways you'll discover:

1. The Golf 8.5 System: Why "Simple" Beats "Complicated" Every Time
Discover why traditional golf instruction has been teaching the setup positions in the wrong order for decades, and how Kay's breakthrough system - built on cognitive learning principles and "chunking" - can help you retain 300% more of what you learn. You'll learn why there are only four things to do before the swing and four-and-a-half things during it, and how this approach can shave 15-25 seconds off every shot (that's a half-hour round!) while dramatically improving your consistency.

2. The Power of Connection: How WIGI is Amplifying Women's Voices in Golf
Learn how the Women in The Golf Industry organization, founded in 2001 by 11 pioneering women, has become a vital network for connecting resources, mentorship, and opportunities across all facets of the golf industry - from tour professionals and golf architects to media members and entrepreneurs. Kay shares how the organization embraces a two-way mentoring model where seasoned professionals and young newcomers learn from each other, and why having a unified voice matters in an industry where women represent only 5-10% of professionals.

3. Confronting Golf's Uncomfortable Truths: The Callaway/Good Good Controversy and Beyond
In the wake of the controversial Callaway and Good Good video that sparked industry-wide outcry, Kay offers her thoughtful perspective on the "unacceptable undercurrent culture" that still exists in golf. Rather than simply condemning, she advocates for recognizing these moments as opportunities to change the conversation, ask "what were they thinking?" and work toward building a more inclusive, respectful sport for everyone, while acknowledging the many men who are supportive allies in this effort.

💬 Inspiring Quotes from Kay McMahon

"I said, 'I'm really sorry that all the members keep talking to you and interrupting how you practice.' And he looked at me very closely in the eye and said, 'Just remember the reason that you and I are here is because there are fans.'"
— Kay sharing a life-changing lesson from Arnold Palmer about humility and gratitude

"We never get to where we are alone. I ended by saying, and guess what? I just spun The Game of Life again and I ended up on the Hall of Fame."
— Kay reflecting on her Hall of Fame speech, where she honored the many women who mentored and supported her journey

"Keep your head up because it's all in the attitude, and I promise your scores will come down."
— Kay's signature advice to golfers everywhere

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Kay on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

Episode Chapters

00:14 Welcome to ModGolf: Host Colin Weston introduces Kay McMahon
01:16 Kay's First Golf Experience: How her father built a golf course in the cul-de-sac
04:30 An Overview of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI): Mission, history, and impact
09:00 International Reach and Mentorship: How WIGI connects women globally
12:45 The Callaway/Good Good Controversy: Kay's perspective on the industry's response
18:30 Partnerships That Matter: How WIGI collaborates with Women's Golf Day and other organizations
22:00 Becoming a PGA Professional: Kay's journey through nine qualifying schools and three U.S. Opens
25:44 Stories of Arnold Palmer: Lessons in humility, ethics, and treating people right
27:43 Influential Women in Kay's Life: Shirley Spork, Pat Lang, and the "Game of Life"
29:54 Making Golf More Inclusive: What clubs get wrong and how to fix it
32:30 The Golf 8.5 System Explained: Four setup positions, four-and-a-half swing thoughts
37:12 Closing Thoughts and Final Advice: "Keep your head up"

About Kay McMahon

Kay McMahon is a pioneering figure in the golf industry with a career spanning over four decades. She is:

  • A member of the LPGA Professionals Hall of Fame
  • An LPGA Elite Top 50 Best Teacher
  • A PGA member
  • President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI)
  • Creator of the Golf 8.5 teaching system
  • Founder of EduKaytion Golf (a clever play on her name and her passion for education)
  • Former National President of the LPGA Teaching & Club Professionals
  • Played in 3 USGA Women’s Opens and competed in nine LPGA qualifying schools
  • Worked alongside Arnold Palmer at Ironwood Country Club in Palm Desert, California for 10 years

Connect with Kay McMahon & WIGI

We want to thank Big Swing Media for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast!

Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code MODGOLF26. Visit BigSwingMedia.news to subscribe.

About The ModGolf Podcast: Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.

Join the ModGolf Community

Subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen in.
Become a Patron!: Join our ModGolf Patreon community at patreon.com/ModGolf for exclusive content and entry in our ModGolf Giveaway contests.

Special Guest: Kay McMahon - President of Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI) and creator of the Golf 8.5 teaching system.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> Bridging Golf's Cultural Gap - Osi Umunna, CEO and Founder of The Hole 9 https://modgolf.fireside.fm/227-osi-umunna-the-hole-9 0a5f9eee-9b74-44d7-95dc-ea50a4d92f2d Wed, 16 Sep 2026 17:15:00 -0700 ModSport Media Inc. full 20 ModSport Media Inc. What happens when a barber-turned-fashion-entrepreneur picks up a golf club during COVID and decides golf needs a whole new story? In this episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with Osi Umunna - CEO and founder of The Hole 9 - to explore how influencer marketing, creative direction, and cultural storytelling are reshaping the golf industry, from the Good Good controversy to LeBron James' YouTube golf channel and the rise of Black-owned golf brands. Whether you're searching for the best golf podcasts, golf business insights, golf influencer marketing tips, or stories about diversity and inclusion in golf, this conversation delivers a must-listen perspective on the new guard of golf. 39:12 no <p>What happens when a barber from Florida - turned streetwear entrepreneur - turned content creator picks up a golf club for the first time in 20 years during a global pandemic? He builds one of the most dynamic creative agencies in golf. Osi Umunna, CEO and Founder of The Hole 9, joins host Colin Weston for a raw, unfiltered conversation about how he's bridging the lifestyle and cultural gap between golf brands and the audiences they've been missing for decades. From the Good Good controversy that's shaking the industry to LeBron James' game-changing entry into golf media to the black-owned brands quietly rewriting golf's cultural playbook, this episode delivers the kind of perspective that only comes from someone who's lived on both sides of the fence and decided to build a bridge instead.</p> <p>Whether you're a brand executive wondering how to reach new audiences, a creator trying to find your lane, or just someone who's ever felt like golf "wasn't for you," this conversation will change how you see the game's future. Osi doesn't just talk about the new guard of golf, he's actively building it.</p> <p><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/kfqjCi_8.jpg" alt=""></p> <hr> <h3><strong>Key Takeaways you'll discover:</strong></h3> <p><strong>1. The future of golf belongs to those who build bridges, not walls.</strong><br> Osi explains why brands that only speak to one audience will eventually stall, and how The Hole 9 helps companies scale by bringing in fresh perspectives, tastemakers, and cultural credibility that simply can't be manufactured in a boardroom.</p> <p><strong>2. The Good Good controversy is a teachable moment about the cost of missing voices.</strong><br> Osi breaks down what went wrong, why Callaway shares responsibility, and how the fallout could have been avoided if more diverse perspectives had been in the room before the content went live. It's a cautionary tale every brand in the creator economy needs to hear.</p> <p><strong>3. Vulnerability is golf's secret weapon for inclusion.</strong><br> From LeBron shanking shots on camera to Steph Curry's and Michael Jordan's legendary competitive fire, Osi explains why showing the struggle, not just the highlight reel is exactly what makes golf relatable and welcoming to newcomers.</p> <hr> <h3>💬 Inspiring Quotes from Osi Umunna</h3> <blockquote> <p><em>"Brands are now trying to scale and reach this new audience. And how do you reach it if you don't know the story?"</em></p> <p><em>"For Black and brown individuals, it's like if you see it, you can be it. When you start building from the youth - they say the youth will save us - that's probably the biggest impact."</em></p> <p><em>"If LeBron James can shank balls in front of the world, what's your problem? We all were there at one point. It's okay to show that side and the growth."</em></p> <hr> </blockquote> <p>Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Osi on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/J88SZSkoZ1w" rel="nofollow noopener">The ModGolf YouTube channel</a></strong>. Click on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/J88SZSkoZ1w" rel="nofollow noopener">this link</a></strong> or the image below to watch.</p> <p>[<img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/yJ7ge9YQ.jpg" alt=""> </p> <h3>Episode Chapters</h3> <p><strong>00:00</strong> Welcome to Season 20 &amp; Introducing Presenting Partner Big Swing Media<br> <strong>02:02</strong> Meet Osi Umunna: Fashion, Entertainment &amp; The Hole 9 Origin Story<br> <strong>04:09</strong> First Golf Experience: The Power of Invitation &amp; "Catching the Bug"<br> <strong>05:49</strong> From Barber Chair to Boardroom: Building Networks &amp; Inner Desires<br> <strong>10:58</strong> The COVID Golf Boom &amp; The Birth of The Hole 9<br> <strong>11:55</strong> The Good Good Controversy: Lessons on Perspectives &amp; Brand Responsibility<br> <strong>16:40</strong> LeBron James, Steph Curry &amp; the NBA's Impact on Golf's Growth<br> <strong>18:26</strong> Adrian Colbert &amp; On The Links (OTL): Athletes Transitioning to Golf<br> <strong>20:36</strong> The Vegas Baby Golf Pro Am and the AM Golf Partnership<br> <strong>22:58</strong> Steph Curry, Michael Jordan &amp; the Power of Elite Athletes in Golf<br> <strong>26:52</strong> Black-Owned Golf Brands to Watch: Renegade Golf, Blackballed, Masterpiece &amp; Eastside Golf<br> <strong>29:43</strong> The Story Behind the Name: "The Hole 9"<br> <strong>32:37</strong> What Excites Osi &amp; What Still Needs Work in the Golf Industry<br> <strong>35:57</strong> Where to Connect with Osi &amp; The Hole 9</p> <hr> <h3>🔗 Resources &amp; Links</h3> <p><strong>Connect with Osi on Linkedin:</strong> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/osi-umunna-139bb593/" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.linkedin.com/in/osi-umunna-139bb593/</a><br> <strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://thehole9.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">thehole9.com</a></p> <h3>Brands &amp; Creators Mentioned in This Episode</h3> <ul> <li> <strong><a href="https://eastsidegolf.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Eastside Golf</a></strong> – Earl &amp; Olajuwon, leading the way for Black-owned golf apparel</li> <li> <strong><a href="https://renegade.golf/" rel="nofollow noopener">Renegade Golf</a></strong> – Black-owned golf ball brand based in Atlanta</li> <li> <strong><a href="https://blackballedgolf.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Blackballed Golf</a></strong> – Atlanta-based clothing brand</li> <li> <strong><a href="https://masterpiecegolf.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Masterpiece</a></strong> – New York-based golf lifestyle brand</li> <li> <strong><a href="https://shopgolfsavedmylife.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Golf Saved My Life</a></strong> – Atlanta brand with a powerful founder story</li> <li> <strong><a href="https://malbon.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Malbon Golf</a></strong> – Creating space for Black and brown golfers</li> <li> <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@onthelinkss" rel="nofollow noopener">On The Links (OTL)</a></strong> – Adrian Colbert's platform for golf-loving pro athletes</li> <li> <strong><a href="https://www.vegasbaby.ca/" rel="nofollow noopener">Vegas Baby Golf Pro Am</a></strong> – AM Golf's launch event, November 2024 * * * We want to thank <strong>Big Swing Media</strong> for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast! <a href="https://www.BigSwingMedia.news" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/6EOfEqoG.jpg" alt=""></a> Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. <strong>The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief</strong> tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code <strong>MODGOLF26</strong>. Visit <a href="https://www.BigSwingMedia.news" rel="nofollow noopener">BigSwingMedia.news</a> to subscribe. * * * <strong>About The ModGolf Podcast:</strong> Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017. </li> </ul> modgolf podcast, golf business, Osi Umunna, The Hole 9, East Side Golf, golf fashion, content creator, YouTube golf, golf podcast, business podcast, LeBron James, Steph Curry, Michael Jordan, golf innovator, golf venture, golf entertainment, PGA Show, golf entrepreneur, golf industry, golf business, modgolf, entrepreneurship What happens when a barber from Florida - turned streetwear entrepreneur - turned content creator picks up a golf club for the first time in 20 years during a global pandemic? He builds one of the most dynamic creative agencies in golf. Osi Umunna, CEO and Founder of The Hole 9, joins host Colin Weston for a raw, unfiltered conversation about how he's bridging the lifestyle and cultural gap between golf brands and the audiences they've been missing for decades. From the Good Good controversy that's shaking the industry to LeBron James' game-changing entry into golf media to the black-owned brands quietly rewriting golf's cultural playbook, this episode delivers the kind of perspective that only comes from someone who's lived on both sides of the fence and decided to build a bridge instead.

Whether you're a brand executive wondering how to reach new audiences, a creator trying to find your lane, or just someone who's ever felt like golf "wasn't for you," this conversation will change how you see the game's future. Osi doesn't just talk about the new guard of golf, he's actively building it.

Key Takeaways you'll discover:

1. The future of golf belongs to those who build bridges, not walls.
Osi explains why brands that only speak to one audience will eventually stall, and how The Hole 9 helps companies scale by bringing in fresh perspectives, tastemakers, and cultural credibility that simply can't be manufactured in a boardroom.

2. The Good Good controversy is a teachable moment about the cost of missing voices.
Osi breaks down what went wrong, why Callaway shares responsibility, and how the fallout could have been avoided if more diverse perspectives had been in the room before the content went live. It's a cautionary tale every brand in the creator economy needs to hear.

3. Vulnerability is golf's secret weapon for inclusion.
From LeBron shanking shots on camera to Steph Curry's and Michael Jordan's legendary competitive fire, Osi explains why showing the struggle, not just the highlight reel is exactly what makes golf relatable and welcoming to newcomers.

💬 Inspiring Quotes from Osi Umunna

"Brands are now trying to scale and reach this new audience. And how do you reach it if you don't know the story?"

"For Black and brown individuals, it's like if you see it, you can be it. When you start building from the youth - they say the youth will save us - that's probably the biggest impact."

"If LeBron James can shank balls in front of the world, what's your problem? We all were there at one point. It's okay to show that side and the growth."

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Osi on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

[

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Season 20 & Introducing Presenting Partner Big Swing Media
02:02 Meet Osi Umunna: Fashion, Entertainment & The Hole 9 Origin Story
04:09 First Golf Experience: The Power of Invitation & "Catching the Bug"
05:49 From Barber Chair to Boardroom: Building Networks & Inner Desires
10:58 The COVID Golf Boom & The Birth of The Hole 9
11:55 The Good Good Controversy: Lessons on Perspectives & Brand Responsibility
16:40 LeBron James, Steph Curry & the NBA's Impact on Golf's Growth
18:26 Adrian Colbert & On The Links (OTL): Athletes Transitioning to Golf
20:36 The Vegas Baby Golf Pro Am and the AM Golf Partnership
22:58 Steph Curry, Michael Jordan & the Power of Elite Athletes in Golf
26:52 Black-Owned Golf Brands to Watch: Renegade Golf, Blackballed, Masterpiece & Eastside Golf
29:43 The Story Behind the Name: "The Hole 9"
32:37 What Excites Osi & What Still Needs Work in the Golf Industry
35:57 Where to Connect with Osi & The Hole 9

🔗 Resources & Links

Connect with Osi on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/osi-umunna-139bb593/
Website: thehole9.com

Brands & Creators Mentioned in This Episode

  • Eastside Golf – Earl & Olajuwon, leading the way for Black-owned golf apparel
  • Renegade Golf – Black-owned golf ball brand based in Atlanta
  • Blackballed Golf – Atlanta-based clothing brand
  • Masterpiece – New York-based golf lifestyle brand
  • Golf Saved My Life – Atlanta brand with a powerful founder story
  • Malbon Golf – Creating space for Black and brown golfers
  • On The Links (OTL) – Adrian Colbert's platform for golf-loving pro athletes
  • Vegas Baby Golf Pro Am – AM Golf's launch event, November 2024 * * * We want to thank Big Swing Media for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast! Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code MODGOLF26. Visit BigSwingMedia.news to subscribe. * * * About The ModGolf Podcast: Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> What happens when a barber from Florida - turned streetwear entrepreneur - turned content creator picks up a golf club for the first time in 20 years during a global pandemic? He builds one of the most dynamic creative agencies in golf. Osi Umunna, CEO and Founder of The Hole 9, joins host Colin Weston for a raw, unfiltered conversation about how he's bridging the lifestyle and cultural gap between golf brands and the audiences they've been missing for decades. From the Good Good controversy that's shaking the industry to LeBron James' game-changing entry into golf media to the black-owned brands quietly rewriting golf's cultural playbook, this episode delivers the kind of perspective that only comes from someone who's lived on both sides of the fence and decided to build a bridge instead.

Whether you're a brand executive wondering how to reach new audiences, a creator trying to find your lane, or just someone who's ever felt like golf "wasn't for you," this conversation will change how you see the game's future. Osi doesn't just talk about the new guard of golf, he's actively building it.

Key Takeaways you'll discover:

1. The future of golf belongs to those who build bridges, not walls.
Osi explains why brands that only speak to one audience will eventually stall, and how The Hole 9 helps companies scale by bringing in fresh perspectives, tastemakers, and cultural credibility that simply can't be manufactured in a boardroom.

2. The Good Good controversy is a teachable moment about the cost of missing voices.
Osi breaks down what went wrong, why Callaway shares responsibility, and how the fallout could have been avoided if more diverse perspectives had been in the room before the content went live. It's a cautionary tale every brand in the creator economy needs to hear.

3. Vulnerability is golf's secret weapon for inclusion.
From LeBron shanking shots on camera to Steph Curry's and Michael Jordan's legendary competitive fire, Osi explains why showing the struggle, not just the highlight reel is exactly what makes golf relatable and welcoming to newcomers.

💬 Inspiring Quotes from Osi Umunna

"Brands are now trying to scale and reach this new audience. And how do you reach it if you don't know the story?"

"For Black and brown individuals, it's like if you see it, you can be it. When you start building from the youth - they say the youth will save us - that's probably the biggest impact."

"If LeBron James can shank balls in front of the world, what's your problem? We all were there at one point. It's okay to show that side and the growth."

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Osi on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

[

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Season 20 & Introducing Presenting Partner Big Swing Media
02:02 Meet Osi Umunna: Fashion, Entertainment & The Hole 9 Origin Story
04:09 First Golf Experience: The Power of Invitation & "Catching the Bug"
05:49 From Barber Chair to Boardroom: Building Networks & Inner Desires
10:58 The COVID Golf Boom & The Birth of The Hole 9
11:55 The Good Good Controversy: Lessons on Perspectives & Brand Responsibility
16:40 LeBron James, Steph Curry & the NBA's Impact on Golf's Growth
18:26 Adrian Colbert & On The Links (OTL): Athletes Transitioning to Golf
20:36 The Vegas Baby Golf Pro Am and the AM Golf Partnership
22:58 Steph Curry, Michael Jordan & the Power of Elite Athletes in Golf
26:52 Black-Owned Golf Brands to Watch: Renegade Golf, Blackballed, Masterpiece & Eastside Golf
29:43 The Story Behind the Name: "The Hole 9"
32:37 What Excites Osi & What Still Needs Work in the Golf Industry
35:57 Where to Connect with Osi & The Hole 9

🔗 Resources & Links

Connect with Osi on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/osi-umunna-139bb593/
Website: thehole9.com

Brands & Creators Mentioned in This Episode

  • Eastside Golf – Earl & Olajuwon, leading the way for Black-owned golf apparel
  • Renegade Golf – Black-owned golf ball brand based in Atlanta
  • Blackballed Golf – Atlanta-based clothing brand
  • Masterpiece – New York-based golf lifestyle brand
  • Golf Saved My Life – Atlanta brand with a powerful founder story
  • Malbon Golf – Creating space for Black and brown golfers
  • On The Links (OTL) – Adrian Colbert's platform for golf-loving pro athletes
  • Vegas Baby Golf Pro Am – AM Golf's launch event, November 2024 * * * We want to thank Big Swing Media for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast! Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code MODGOLF26. Visit BigSwingMedia.news to subscribe. * * * About The ModGolf Podcast: Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> The Future of Golf Is Modular - How Cover The Tees is Building the Next Generation of Driving Range Experiences https://modgolf.fireside.fm/226-cover-the-tees a4bf957a-830a-4bac-9f71-b06531971d05 Wed, 09 Sep 2026 13:15:00 -0700 ModSport Media Inc. full 20 ModSport Media Inc. What if you could turn a driving range into a year-round community entertainment hub and 4x your revenue in the process? On our season premiere, Cover The Tees founder Matthew Towell and COO Stephen Arnold reveal how their modular construction system is revolutionizing golf facilities, from extending playability through harsh winters to creating unforgettable shared experiences that bring families and communities together. 44:55 no <p><strong>What happens when modular construction expertise meets the booming golf entertainment market?</strong><br> In this season premiere of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with Matthew Towell (Founder/CEO) and Stephen Arnold (COO) of Cover The Tees to explore how they're transforming driving ranges across America into vibrant community entertainment hubs.</p> <p>From Matthew's unlikely golf start of hitting his stepmother's 7-iron over a house as a kid, to building a company that's now completed 100 modular installations nationwide, this episode is packed with insights on innovation, overcoming adversity, and the power of creating shared experiences through golf. Whether you're a golf course operator, an entrepreneur, or simply love hearing how businesses scale, you'll want to hear this conversation.</p> <p><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/Vca1Bd4y.jpg" alt=""></p> <hr> <h3><strong>Key Takeaways you'll discover:</strong></h3> <p><strong>1. Modular Construction = Speed, Scalability, and Season Extension</strong><br> Cover The Tees' modular approach allows facilities to install covered bays in just 10-14 days, scale from 10 to 20+ bays as demand grows, and add enclosures, heaters, and wind protection to extend operations into winter months. One Chicago-area facility tracked 1.5 million balls in the first four months of the year before the snow melted and their busy season even began.</p> <p><strong>2. Driving Ranges Are Becoming Community Entertainment Hubs</strong><br> The traditional "hit a bucket and leave" model is evolving. Cover The Tees clients are hosting line dancing, bands, trivia nights, and craft events, transforming ranges into year-round gathering spaces. Nicole Inkle's facility saw community engagement soar, while Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort quadrupled their revenue in year one.</p> <p><strong>3. Start Small, Prove Your ROI, Then Scale</strong><br> Cover The Tees encourages operators to start with 10 bays and expand later. One customer hit their previous year's ball sales in just the first month after installation, immediately requesting their second wing. The modular design makes expansion seamless.</p> <hr> <p>Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Matthew and Stephen on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/MLFB2rcvdJw" rel="nofollow noopener">The ModGolf YouTube channel</a></strong> as we run through a live demo of Cover The Tee's "Bay Builder" tool. Click on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/MLFB2rcvdJw" rel="nofollow noopener">this link</a></strong> or the image below to watch.<br> <a href="https://youtu.be/MLFB2rcvdJw" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/WPZerXVp.jpg" alt=""></a> </p> <h3>💬 Inspiring Quotes</h3> <blockquote> <p><em>"The money is great, but what you get to feel from it afterwards. It's really opening up this game for more people to get involved. Who would not have before."</em><br> — <strong>Matthew Towell, Founder/CEO</strong></p> <p><em>"I can't tell you why it works. I just know it does work. We built it. People showed up. We were able to take our revenues from $90,000 and do $300,000 in the first three months."</em><br> — <strong>Stephen Arnold, COO</strong></p> <p><em>"Watching the families come in with a grandmother in a wheelchair sitting in the bay with her family around her watching her grandkids hit balls. I was like, 'This is freaking cool, man. This is what I want to do forever.'"</em><br> — <strong>Matthew Towell, Founder/CEO</strong></p> <hr> </blockquote> <h3>Episode Chapters</h3> <p><strong>00:00</strong> Introduction to Season 20 &amp; Cover The Tees<br> <strong>02:13</strong> Matt's first golf experience: stealing clubs, hitting over a house, and getting hooked<br> <strong>03:58</strong> Stephen's introduction to golf: plastic clubs, grandpa, and the magic of a golf cart<br> <strong>05:12</strong> The Cover The Tees origin story: Modular classrooms, rental businesses, and a wife's health scare<br> <strong>09:39</strong> COVID, lost contracts, and the pivot to golf entertainment<br> <strong>11:24</strong> The first prototype in Austin, Texas: finding early adopters<br> <strong>13:03</strong> Stephen's journey: From skeptical client to COO at Cover The Tees<br> <strong>15:39</strong> The Palmetto Dunes installation: 14 bays, built in 60 days, and how it 4x'd revenue<br> <strong>16:14</strong> Market opportunity: 14,000+ golf courses in the U.S. and why this scales anywhere<br> <strong>17:53</strong> The design process: Engineering packages, permits, and turnkey solutions<br> <strong>21:00</strong> Building the dream team: Bringing in Top Tracer veterans and industry experts<br> <strong>23:52</strong> The Bay Builder tool: Customization meets modular consistency<br> <strong>24:35</strong> Extending seasons in northern climates: Enclosures, heaters, and garage doors<br> <strong>27:47</strong> Flexibility in design: VIP bays, instruction spaces, and corporate events<br> <strong>29:25</strong> Matt's race car driving background and the "apex" business strategy<br> <strong>32:29</strong> Production and installation: A 10-14 day process that feels like assembling a Lego set<br> <strong>37:54</strong> Success story: Nicole Inkle's hesitant start that turned into community transformation<br> <strong>41:10</strong> How to get started with Cover The Tees (and their investment partnership program)<br> <strong>44:16</strong> Closing thoughts: Building more than structures, building community</p> <hr> <h3>🔗 Resources &amp; Links</h3> <p><strong>Connect with Cover The Tees:</strong> Contact their team for a consultation<br> <strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://coverthetees.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">coverthetees.com</a><br> <strong>Watch the companion video:</strong> ModGolf YouTube Channel </p> <hr> <p><strong>About The ModGolf Podcast:</strong> Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.</p> <hr> <p>We want to thank <strong>Big Swing Media</strong> for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast!<br> <a href="https://www.BigSwingMedia.news" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/6EOfEqoG.jpg" alt=""></a><br> Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. <strong>The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief</strong> tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code <strong>MODGOLF26</strong>. Visit <a href="https://www.BigSwingMedia.news" rel="nofollow noopener">BigSwingMedia.news</a> to subscribe. </p> modgolf podcast, golf business, Cover The Tees, golf podcast, business podcast, driving range, modular construction, golf innovator, golf venture, golf entertainment, PGA Show, golf entrepreneur, golf industry, golf business, modgolf, entrepreneurship What happens when modular construction expertise meets the booming golf entertainment market?
In this season premiere of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with Matthew Towell (Founder/CEO) and Stephen Arnold (COO) of Cover The Tees to explore how they're transforming driving ranges across America into vibrant community entertainment hubs.

From Matthew's unlikely golf start of hitting his stepmother's 7-iron over a house as a kid, to building a company that's now completed 100 modular installations nationwide, this episode is packed with insights on innovation, overcoming adversity, and the power of creating shared experiences through golf. Whether you're a golf course operator, an entrepreneur, or simply love hearing how businesses scale, you'll want to hear this conversation.

Key Takeaways you'll discover:

1. Modular Construction = Speed, Scalability, and Season Extension
Cover The Tees' modular approach allows facilities to install covered bays in just 10-14 days, scale from 10 to 20+ bays as demand grows, and add enclosures, heaters, and wind protection to extend operations into winter months. One Chicago-area facility tracked 1.5 million balls in the first four months of the year before the snow melted and their busy season even began.

2. Driving Ranges Are Becoming Community Entertainment Hubs
The traditional "hit a bucket and leave" model is evolving. Cover The Tees clients are hosting line dancing, bands, trivia nights, and craft events, transforming ranges into year-round gathering spaces. Nicole Inkle's facility saw community engagement soar, while Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort quadrupled their revenue in year one.

3. Start Small, Prove Your ROI, Then Scale
Cover The Tees encourages operators to start with 10 bays and expand later. One customer hit their previous year's ball sales in just the first month after installation, immediately requesting their second wing. The modular design makes expansion seamless.

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Matthew and Stephen on The ModGolf YouTube channel as we run through a live demo of Cover The Tee's "Bay Builder" tool. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

💬 Inspiring Quotes

"The money is great, but what you get to feel from it afterwards. It's really opening up this game for more people to get involved. Who would not have before."
— Matthew Towell, Founder/CEO

"I can't tell you why it works. I just know it does work. We built it. People showed up. We were able to take our revenues from $90,000 and do $300,000 in the first three months."
— Stephen Arnold, COO

"Watching the families come in with a grandmother in a wheelchair sitting in the bay with her family around her watching her grandkids hit balls. I was like, 'This is freaking cool, man. This is what I want to do forever.'"
— Matthew Towell, Founder/CEO

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Season 20 & Cover The Tees
02:13 Matt's first golf experience: stealing clubs, hitting over a house, and getting hooked
03:58 Stephen's introduction to golf: plastic clubs, grandpa, and the magic of a golf cart
05:12 The Cover The Tees origin story: Modular classrooms, rental businesses, and a wife's health scare
09:39 COVID, lost contracts, and the pivot to golf entertainment
11:24 The first prototype in Austin, Texas: finding early adopters
13:03 Stephen's journey: From skeptical client to COO at Cover The Tees
15:39 The Palmetto Dunes installation: 14 bays, built in 60 days, and how it 4x'd revenue
16:14 Market opportunity: 14,000+ golf courses in the U.S. and why this scales anywhere
17:53 The design process: Engineering packages, permits, and turnkey solutions
21:00 Building the dream team: Bringing in Top Tracer veterans and industry experts
23:52 The Bay Builder tool: Customization meets modular consistency
24:35 Extending seasons in northern climates: Enclosures, heaters, and garage doors
27:47 Flexibility in design: VIP bays, instruction spaces, and corporate events
29:25 Matt's race car driving background and the "apex" business strategy
32:29 Production and installation: A 10-14 day process that feels like assembling a Lego set
37:54 Success story: Nicole Inkle's hesitant start that turned into community transformation
41:10 How to get started with Cover The Tees (and their investment partnership program)
44:16 Closing thoughts: Building more than structures, building community

🔗 Resources & Links

Connect with Cover The Tees: Contact their team for a consultation
Website: coverthetees.com
Watch the companion video: ModGolf YouTube Channel

About The ModGolf Podcast: Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.

We want to thank Big Swing Media for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast!

Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code MODGOLF26. Visit BigSwingMedia.news to subscribe.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> What happens when modular construction expertise meets the booming golf entertainment market?
In this season premiere of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with Matthew Towell (Founder/CEO) and Stephen Arnold (COO) of Cover The Tees to explore how they're transforming driving ranges across America into vibrant community entertainment hubs.

From Matthew's unlikely golf start of hitting his stepmother's 7-iron over a house as a kid, to building a company that's now completed 100 modular installations nationwide, this episode is packed with insights on innovation, overcoming adversity, and the power of creating shared experiences through golf. Whether you're a golf course operator, an entrepreneur, or simply love hearing how businesses scale, you'll want to hear this conversation.

Key Takeaways you'll discover:

1. Modular Construction = Speed, Scalability, and Season Extension
Cover The Tees' modular approach allows facilities to install covered bays in just 10-14 days, scale from 10 to 20+ bays as demand grows, and add enclosures, heaters, and wind protection to extend operations into winter months. One Chicago-area facility tracked 1.5 million balls in the first four months of the year before the snow melted and their busy season even began.

2. Driving Ranges Are Becoming Community Entertainment Hubs
The traditional "hit a bucket and leave" model is evolving. Cover The Tees clients are hosting line dancing, bands, trivia nights, and craft events, transforming ranges into year-round gathering spaces. Nicole Inkle's facility saw community engagement soar, while Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort quadrupled their revenue in year one.

3. Start Small, Prove Your ROI, Then Scale
Cover The Tees encourages operators to start with 10 bays and expand later. One customer hit their previous year's ball sales in just the first month after installation, immediately requesting their second wing. The modular design makes expansion seamless.

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Matthew and Stephen on The ModGolf YouTube channel as we run through a live demo of Cover The Tee's "Bay Builder" tool. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

💬 Inspiring Quotes

"The money is great, but what you get to feel from it afterwards. It's really opening up this game for more people to get involved. Who would not have before."
— Matthew Towell, Founder/CEO

"I can't tell you why it works. I just know it does work. We built it. People showed up. We were able to take our revenues from $90,000 and do $300,000 in the first three months."
— Stephen Arnold, COO

"Watching the families come in with a grandmother in a wheelchair sitting in the bay with her family around her watching her grandkids hit balls. I was like, 'This is freaking cool, man. This is what I want to do forever.'"
— Matthew Towell, Founder/CEO

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Season 20 & Cover The Tees
02:13 Matt's first golf experience: stealing clubs, hitting over a house, and getting hooked
03:58 Stephen's introduction to golf: plastic clubs, grandpa, and the magic of a golf cart
05:12 The Cover The Tees origin story: Modular classrooms, rental businesses, and a wife's health scare
09:39 COVID, lost contracts, and the pivot to golf entertainment
11:24 The first prototype in Austin, Texas: finding early adopters
13:03 Stephen's journey: From skeptical client to COO at Cover The Tees
15:39 The Palmetto Dunes installation: 14 bays, built in 60 days, and how it 4x'd revenue
16:14 Market opportunity: 14,000+ golf courses in the U.S. and why this scales anywhere
17:53 The design process: Engineering packages, permits, and turnkey solutions
21:00 Building the dream team: Bringing in Top Tracer veterans and industry experts
23:52 The Bay Builder tool: Customization meets modular consistency
24:35 Extending seasons in northern climates: Enclosures, heaters, and garage doors
27:47 Flexibility in design: VIP bays, instruction spaces, and corporate events
29:25 Matt's race car driving background and the "apex" business strategy
32:29 Production and installation: A 10-14 day process that feels like assembling a Lego set
37:54 Success story: Nicole Inkle's hesitant start that turned into community transformation
41:10 How to get started with Cover The Tees (and their investment partnership program)
44:16 Closing thoughts: Building more than structures, building community

🔗 Resources & Links

Connect with Cover The Tees: Contact their team for a consultation
Website: coverthetees.com
Watch the companion video: ModGolf YouTube Channel

About The ModGolf Podcast: Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.

We want to thank Big Swing Media for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast!

Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code MODGOLF26. Visit BigSwingMedia.news to subscribe.

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