The ModGolf Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Golf Fashion”

Team Over Everything: The Art of Building an Enduring Brand - Hyman Ngo, Levelwear Co-Founder and SVP of Product/Marketing

The ModGolf Podcast — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:15:00 -0700

"We know who we are. We know who we're not. Rather than focusing on the athlete, as a sports apparel brand, we chose to celebrate all the people around them. It takes a village for anyone to succeed, whether you're a business, whether you're an athlete, whether you're a team. It takes everyone around you—the coaches, the parents, the trainers, the caddies. We need to credit all of those people. And that's the people we want to celebrate."... Hyman Ngo, Levelwear Co-Founder and SVP of Product/Marketing

Welcome to Season 19 of The ModGolf Podcast! We are thrilled to kick off the new season with Hyman Ngo, Co-Founder and SVP of Product and Marketing at the premium athletic wear brand, Levelwear.

In this episode, Hyman takes us on a fascinating journey that began not as a startup, but as an acquisition. He shares the story of how his family transitioned from being a contract manufacturer to building the branded powerhouse that now outfits 85 of the top 100 golf clubs in the U.S and Canada.

We dive deep into Levelwear's unique brand ethos, exploring their powerful "Who's With You" manifesto and how it manifests in the real world through their innovative "Caddy Lounge" activation at PGA and LPGA events. Hyman also discusses the delicate balance of sustainability, the art of staying fresh in a crowded market, and how licensing deals with major leagues like the NHL and MLB help build brand legitimacy. Whether you're a golfer, an entrepreneur, or a fan of smart business strategy, this conversation is packed with insights on building a brand that lasts.

Key Takeaways You Will Discover:
The Power of Authentic Brand Building: Learn how Levelwear transitioned from a behind-the-scenes manufacturer to a coveted brand by focusing on relationships and leveraging early success in top-tier U.S. clubs (like Pebble Beach) to build credibility back home and beyond.

Celebrating the "Who's With You": Discover the philosophy behind Levelwear’s manifesto and how it led to the creation of the "Caddy Lounge." This marketing activation focuses on serving the unsung heroes of the game, proving that authentic engagement with a community can be more powerful than traditional consumer-facing advertising.

Balancing Sustainability with Performance: Hyman shares the brand's commitment to "buy less, but buy better," discussing the challenges of creating durable, high-performance apparel using sustainable materials while navigating the inherent contradiction of a consumption-based business model.

Three Quotable Moments from Hyman:

On the mentality of golf: "It's one of those sports where it's not about how much you want it. The more you want it, the harder you try, the worse you seem to do. It's such a good metaphor in life."
On the Levelwear brand ethos: "We're choosing to celebrate all the people around the athlete as it takes a village for anyone to succeed. And that's the people we want to celebrate."
On their design philosophy: "The one thing about brands is you don't want to get stale. We let the designers have a bit of fun. We'll let them do some things that maybe you would never see a golf brand do. And that's part of our appeal."

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

Hyman Ngo's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/hyman-ngo

Links & Resources Mentioned:
Levelwear Instagram: @levelwear
LinkedIn: Hyman Ngo
Levelwear: www.levelwear.com
The ModGolf Podcast: www.mod.golf

Episode Chapters:
00:00: Welcome to Season 19 and Introducing Hyman Ngo
01:09: The Icebreaker: Hyman's first golf experience and the "metaphor of life."
04:09: Colin’s personal review of wearing Levelwear on the course.
05:29: From Manufacturer to Brand: The 2004 acquisition of Levelwear.
09:00: The Early Days: What the product line looked like 20 years ago and the initial struggle to grow.
12:58: Breaking into the U.S. Market: How Pebble Beach validated the brand for Canadian customers.
14:55: Standing Out in a Crowd: Levelwear's differentiators in a market with 400+ soft goods exhibitors.
22:31: The "Who's With You" Manifesto: The "why" behind the brand.
24:41: The Caddy Lounge: Honoring the unsung heroes of golf and building credibility from the ground up.
26:02: Sustainability Initiatives: Seaweed materials, durability, and the "buy less, buy better" philosophy.
35:04: The Power of Partnerships: How licensing with MLB, NHL, NBA, and the PGA Tour builds legitimacy.
36:05: Peeking Behind the Design Curtain: How the team finds inspiration in streetwear and action sports to stay fresh.
40:13: Where to find Levelwear & Final Thoughts.

Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear!

As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building.

I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests.

I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf.

Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf

I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin

We want to thank our partner British Columbia Golf for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast!

British Columbia Golf strives to create a golf environment that is respectful of participant's personal goals and is free from all forms of maltreatment. British Columbia Golf supports women golfers and players of all ages and abilities, while continually working to increase participation in the sport with programs such as the Cloud Series.

British Columbia Golf is the Provincial Sport Organization for golf as recognized by the Government of British Columbia and ViaSport. Golf Canada recognizes the association as the governing body within the province. British Columbia Golf provides programs benefitting golfers and the golf industry in the province. Check out their website https://britishcolumbiagolf.org/

Special Guest: Hyman Ngo, Levelwear Co-Founder and SVP of Product/Marketing.

Elegantly Empowering Women Both On and Off The Golf Course - Paras and Bryan Gore, Co-Founders of Golf She and Swing Sports

The ModGolf Podcast — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0700

"So as a woman, we have been identified as "the fairer sex". And to me, that's not something negative. Women are elegant. Women are beautiful. Women are strong. Women are capable. There are more women in the world than there are men. And so, we deserve something that speaks to that elegance, that speaks to that femininity, that speaks to that strength, that speaks to us being above and beyond."... Paras Gore, Co-Founder of Swing Sports and Golf She

On this inspiring episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with Paras and Bryan Gore, the visionary co-founders of Swing Sports and Golf She. Together, they discuss their journey in the golf industry, the challenges they faced, and their mission to empower women both on and off the golf course.

During this episode you will discover these inspiring takeaways:
The AHA Moment:
Paras shares the pivotal experience at Golf Galaxy that ignited her passion for creating stylish and functional golf accessories for women.

Innovative Products:
Learn about the unique products offered by Golf She, including multifunctional head covers and stylish handbags that cater to the needs of female golfers.

Community and Inclusion:
The Gores discuss their vision for a more inclusive golf community and their plans to support underserved youth through a future foundation.

Marketing Strategies:
Discover how they are leveraging social media and user-generated content to spread awareness about their brand and products.
Future Aspirations: Paras and Bryan share their goals for the future, including expanding their product line and fostering a supportive community for women in golf.

Episode Highlights
• Paras's journey from frustration to entrepreneurship
• The value of elegance and functionality in golf accessories
• Insights into the challenges of breaking into the golf industry
• The couple's commitment to empowering women through their brand

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Paras and Bryan Gore on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below as they extend their podcast conversation as Paras shows off some of her fashionable and functional accessory designs.

Want to connect with Paras? Check out her bio page to make that happen!
Paras Gore's bio >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/paras-gore

Care to check out the luxury golf accessories Paras has designed for golf-loving ladies? Then visit the Swing Sports website or click on the image below.

Follow Golf She / Swing Sports on social media:
• Instagram: @swngsports
• Facebook: Swing Sports
• TikTok: @swngsports

We want to thank Golf Genius Software for supporting The ModGolf Podcast since 2019!
Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience?

Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you’re a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com.

Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear!

Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf

I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin

Special Guest: Paras Gore - Co-Founder of Swing Sports and Golf She.

The Bridge Between Sport and Fashion - Scott Davis, CEO of J.LINDEBERG North America

The ModGolf Podcast — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 12:45:00 -0800

Okay, I'll admit it. I've been a huge J.LINDEBERG fan for over 20 years, so when I had the opportunity to connect with CEO Scott Davis I immediately asked him to share the company story on The ModGolf Podcast. Although we recorded as audio podcast, I couldn't help but wear my favourite JL biker jacket that is still in my outwear rotation. I hope you enjoy this fun episode with Scott as much as I love wearing that jacket!

Here are three key inspirational and informative takeaways that you will discover from the episode of The ModGolf Podcast featuring Scott Davis, CEO of J.LINDEBERG North America:

1 Embracing Innovation and Disruption: Scott emphasizes the importance of innovation in the apparel industry, particularly in golf fashion. He discusses how J.Lindeberg aims to disrupt the market by focusing on sophisticated designs that blend style with functionality. This commitment to innovation is not just about aesthetics; it involves using advanced materials and techniques, such as the self-cooling fabric derived from volcanic ash, to enhance performance on the golf course. This approach encourages you to think creatively and embrace change in your own endeavors.

2 Sustainability as a Core Value: The conversation highlights J.Lindeberg's commitment to sustainability, particularly through the use of recycled materials and natural fibers. Scott acknowledges the challenges in the textile industry regarding sustainability but emphasizes the brand's dedication to making incremental improvements. This focus on eco-friendly practices serves as a reminder for listeners about the importance of sustainability in their own businesses and the impact of consumer choices on the environment.

3 The Power of Community and Feedback: Scott shares how he actively seeks feedback from his family and friends, particularly his children, to understand the preferences of younger consumers. This practice of engaging with the community and valuing diverse perspectives is crucial for any brand's success. It encourages you to foster open communication and collaboration within your teams and networks, ensuring that they remain relevant and responsive to customer needs.

These takeaways not only provide insights into the fashion and golf industries but also inspire you to apply these principles in your own professional journey.

If you would like to connect with Scott, visit his bio page for contact information. To learn more about J.LINDEBERG click on the image below to visit their website.

We want to thank our friends at Golf Genius Software who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019!

Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you’re a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com.

Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... plus you can WIN some awesome golf gear!

Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf

I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin

Special Guest: Scott Davis, CEO of J.LINDEBERG North America.

Conversations From The 2022 PGA Show - Charlie Klaus (Spark Golf) and Patrick Farris (Euforeia Golf)

The ModGolf Podcast — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 17:30:00 -0800

It's been two long years since I last attended The PGA Show in Orlando and although I was apprehensive about getting on a plane from Vancouver with the Omicron variant still swirling around us, I'm glad I made the decision to go. After hundreds of Zoom video calls over the past 24 months has pushed me to the point of burnout, reconnecting with old golf industry friends and meeting some new ones face to face was exactly the medicine my spirit needed.

While I was there I was granted access to The PGA Golf Shows Media Center to record a pair of podcast conversations with Euforeia Golf Co. Founder Patrick Farris and Spark Golf CEO Charlie Klaus. Rather than release these as separate episodes, I decided to give you two engaging conversations for the price of one!

Want to read about the recap of my eight days in Orlando and takeaways from golf's biggest industry event?
Then check out my blog post!

Click on the image below to check out our extended conversation with Charlie Klaus on our Youtube Channel!

Spark Golf is a network of 9-hole, social golf leagues organized to be casual and fun. They make it easy for co-ed players of all skill levels to play golf. They’re showing the world that life is better with golf, and golf is better when it lightens up. Their mission is to invite everyone, regardless of skill, to play a more social and relaxed version of golf in their local communities. And believe in growing golf where many before have failed. First played in 2018, they've built the Spark app which automates all league operations including: registration, payment, handicaps, live scoring, player-to-player messaging and more. In 2022 more than 1,000 courses will host Spark Golf across North America. Find a league and play Spark Golf at a course near you!

Click on the image below to check out our extended conversation with Patrick Farris on our Youtube Channel!

Euforeia was formed as a paradise for freethinkers, outsiders, and good-time subscribers. This convergence of minds created a culture rooted in self-expression, adventure, and the endless journey that is golf. It is this culture and passion that is the soul of who we are, fueling the ingenuity and creativity that goes into every detail of what we make. Their mission is to usher in a new era of golf by obliterating boundaries in order to pave a way for youth culture to rise and expand the game.

To learn more about Euforeia Golf, visit their website to see how a brand based in action sports that was created for the underground golfers of the world aims to grow the game from the outside.

Special Guests: Charlie Klaus - Co- Founder and CEO at Spark Golf and Patrick Farris - Euforeia Golf Co. Founder / CEO.

Looking Outside The Golf Box To Build A Premium Golf Brand - Lisa O'Hurley, CEO and Founder of LOHLA SPORT

The ModGolf Podcast — Sun, 12 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0700

"When COVID hit, GOLFINO hit on some hard times because they had 30 freestanding stores that all of a sudden closed down. They ended up selling the brand and it affected all of us, I was getting phone calls like crazy from the country clubs from the members asking "What's going on with GOLFINO and how can we get it?" Sitting over dinners with my husband it dawned on me that you know, what, if you were ever going to create a lady's premium golf brand, now is the time, because there was all of a sudden a hole in the marketplace. And that hole is what I created! I was fortunate that I still had the sales team and customers who trusted me. So I had a lot of pieces to the puzzle that I had unknowingly been working on for seven years not knowing exactly that it would translate into LOHLA SPORT."

Want to learn more about LOHLA SPORT? Check out their website to see how Lisa and her team bring premium European-designed sporting fashion to North American women.

Click on the image below to check out our extended conversation with Lisa on our Youtube Channel!

You can learn more about Lisa on her bio page.

Show Notes and Lisa Quotes
In one of the most unique sponsorships in sports marketing history, LOHLA SPORT partnered with Stefan Wilson and Andretti Autosport for the 2021 Indianapolis 500. Lisa shares how one of her race car loving investors made this valuable marketing opportunity happen.

After a 10 year career at GOLF CHANNEL, Lisa began the US business of GOLFINO, turning her love for golf fashion into her profession. After 7 years with GOLFINO, Lisa began LOHLA SPORT in June 2020 to continue to bring premium European-designed sporting fashion to the United States. Lisa strives to bring on-trend designs (with a touch of LA flair) to those who live a country club, resort or traveling lifestyle. Lisa lives in Los Angeles, CA with her husband, John (Seinfeld's J. Peterman), their son Will and two dogs, Lucy and Charlotte.
Lisa@LohlaSport.com