The ModGolf Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Golf Instruction”

Season 18 Wrap-up / Season 19 Preview

The ModGolf Podcast — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 09:15:00 -0700

That's a wrap for Season 18 of The ModGolf Podcast! Our team is currently working on your next twelve episodes for Season 19, which launches in March 2026. We heard some amazing stories from a diverse group of guests who discussed how innovation, inclusion, technology, entertainment, music, celebrity, hospitality and community building intersect to shape the future of golf.

If you didn’t get the chance to listen to all of our twelve Season 18 episodes, this bonus show gives you a recap of the great conversations I had with some of the golf industry's top influencers, innovators and entrepreneurs. Hopefully this will inspire you to listen to a couple of the episodes listed below. Let us know which ones you enjoyed the most and why you liked them!

Our Season 18 guests were:

Episode 1
David Buck CEO at Big Swing Kings
In this high-energy season 18 premiere, host Colin Weston sits down with David Buck, the charismatic and hilarious founder of Big Swing Kings. David is on a mission to inject more joy and simplicity into the game of golf, moving away from over-complicated instruction and back to the fundamental truths of what makes a ball go straight.

A former professional golfer who “won’t see his name on any trophies,” David discovered his unique teaching style by accident when a video of him roasting (then instructing) a golfer’s swing went viral. He breaks down why the quest for “consistency” is often misguided, why impact is the only position that truly matters, and how he’s even learning to play left-handed to better understand the learning process for his students.
Click to listen >> Combining Golf Entertainment and Education To Improve Your Golf Game

Episode 2
Kelly Gold Founder of Teefox.golf
"Wouldn't it be cool if you could send your user a notification saying, 'hey, a tee time just opened up at that course you play all the time'? That's what we have built." Kelly Gold, Founder at TeeFox.Golf joins us to share how they remove the frustrations around trying to book a tee time while solving the $12.3 billion problem plaguing golf courses.
Click to listen >> Sniffing Out The Best Tee Times

Episode 3
Todd Keirstead - Golf Entertainer and Skin Cancer Survivor
"If I let the scars be a conversation piece, then hopefully they raise awareness and motivate people to take personal action". Todd Keirstead - Motivational Speaker | Skin Cancer Survivor | Celebrity Golf Entertainer | CEO & Founder of ParaGolf Canada joins us to share his personal journey with skin cancer and how the healing process shapes his world view.
Click to listen >> Finding Purpose on The Practice Tee

Episode 4
Tom Coyne - Best Selling Author and Founder of Coyne Golf
"I don't think people want to read books about going out and doing safe, normal things. So this idea of doing unreasonable things led me into the way I approached Ireland. The crazy idea was, I'll play Ireland as one giant golf course and I'll do it all on foot." Tom Coyne, best selling author and founder of Coyne Golf joins us to share some compelling human interest stories, his quirky travelogue, and a deep exploration of obsession with golf as the backdrop.
Click to listen >> A Course Called Coyne

Episode 5
Matt Erley - CEO of Old Tom Capital
Are you wondering where the real disruption in golf is happening beyond the headlines? Discover why "more people watch golf on YouTube than all linear television golf combined," and where the smartest money is betting on the game's future. Matt Erley, CEO of Old Tom Capital, explains the gaps they are filling and why he believes, "Golf is experiencing incredible growth and innovation and will continue to do so."
Click to listen >> Fuelling Golf's Next Big Ideas

Episode 6
Alex Prasad - CEO of V1 Sports
"Golfers and instructors can tell you their pain points and aspirations, but what they can't tell you is the solution. It's not their job. That's ours." Alex Prasad, the CEO of V1 Sports shares the company journey from its origins in pioneering video analysis to its current position as an innovator leveraging AI and ground force sensors.
Click to listen >> Creating a Unique Lesson Path For Every Golfer

Episode 7
Jonathan Sessa - Founder of The Warrior Golf Academy
What happens when you hit rock bottom and a higher power refuses to let you go? For US Army veteran Jonathan Sessa, the answer was found not in a hospital or a therapy session, but on a golf course. In this profound and powerful episode, host Colin Weston sits down with Jonathan to explore how he transformed his deepest despair into a mission of hope and healing for others through The Warrior Golf Academy.
Click to listen >> How Golf is Healing Heroes

Episode 8
Matt Fisher - Creator of The Mr. Short Game YouTube Channel
YouTube golf content creator Matt Fisher and host Colin Weston dissect the record-breaking success of the Internet Invitational and its over 23 million views. He explains how its raw, personality-driven format is a blueprint for the future, offering a masterclass in what modern golf fans truly want from their entertainment.
Click to listen >> How The Internet Invitational Sparked a Golf Media Revolution

Episode 9
Chris Kallmeyer - CEO at Golf Genius
Does your business struggle to balance culture with growth? Golf Genius CEO Chris Kallmeyer joins us to offer a masterclass in sustainable growth thats reveals how strategic business innovation, a fanatical focus on customer experience, and disciplined acquisitions fuelled their rise to a global powerhouse in the golf industry.
Click to listen >> Scaling Success: How Golf Genius Grew Into a Global Powerhouse

Episode 10
Devon Fox - Senior Director of Digital Programs with The PGA Tour
What if the key to innovating the PGA Tour fan experience was someone who'd never picked up a club? Meet Devon Fox, the Tour's Senior Director of Digital Programs, who reveals how asking the "weird" questions led to breakthroughs like the Fan Council and the tech behind the stunning Apple Vision Pro app. Dive into a conversation that goes beyond golf to explore the future of sports engagement, technology strategy, and creating genuine inclusion from the inside out.
Click to listen >> A Non-Golfer's Strategy For PGA Tour Digital Innovation

Episode 11
Phillis Meti - World Long Drive Champion
What does it truly mean to win at the highest level? For World #3 Long Drive competitor Phillis Meti, victory is measured not just by the bombs she hits past 380 yards, but by the pathways she builds for those who follow. In this powerful episode, we go beyond the grid to explore how a career forged in speed and competition has evolved into a mission of mentorship and legacy. Phillis shares her incredible journey from New Zealand to the world stage, revealing the mindset shifts for longevity, the entrepreneurial ventures that fuel her, and her heartfelt mission to "pull others up" by creating educational opportunities for the next generation of student-athletes.

Discover the untold story of a champion who uses her platform to kick down doors so others can walk through. Listen for invaluable insights on golf performance, athletic mindset, sports business, and the profound impact of creating a legacy that lifts everyone higher.
Click to listen >> Beyond The Grid: Creating Legacy Through Long Drive

Episode 12
Amaya Athill - Founder of Golf Interupted / Regional Director with Golf Canada
She was a rising lawyer until one pivotal golf event made her change everything. Amaya Athill of Golf Canada shares her incredible journey from the courtroom to the fairway, detailing the isolation she felt as a woman of colour on the course and her proven playbook to fix it. Learn the #1 secret to building trust with underrepresented communities, why access isn't just about tee times, and her top strategies for making golf more welcoming for women and kids. This conversation is a masterclass in inclusive growth for golf enthusiasts and industry leaders alike.
Click to listen >> Leaving Law to Liberate The Links

We want to thank Golf Genius Software for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast!
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!

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 about our ModGolf Patreon that brings together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As a Patroen member 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

Special Guests: Alex Prasad - CEO at V1 Sports, Amaya Athill - Founder of Golf Interrupted / Regional Director with Golf Canada, Chris Kallmeyer, CEO at Golf Genius Software, Devon Fox - Senior Director of Digital Programs at the PGA Tour, Jonathan Sessa - Founder of The Warrior Golf Academy, Kelly Gold - Founder at TeeFox.Golf, Matt Erley - Managing Partner at Old Tom Capital, Matt Fisher, Creator of The Mr. Short Game YouTube channel, Phillis Meti: World Long Drive Champion, Entrepreneur, and Legacy Builder, Todd Keirstead - golf entertainer and skin cancer survivor, and Tom Coyne - best selling writer and Founder of Coyne Golf.

The Rebuild - Part 3: Is Your Swing Sequence Correct?

The ModGolf Podcast — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:00:00 -0800

Is your golf swing stuck in the past? In Part 3 of "The Rebuild," I’m back in the bay with Quinn Vilneff, Class A PGA of Canada Professional at Gowanus Golf Club in Vancouver. We’ve fixed the chipping issues, so now it’s time to tackle the full swing. The one that’s been holding me back for years.

If you struggle with pulls, wipey fades, or feel like you just can’t compress the ball, this lesson is for you. Quinn breaks down why my 61-year-old baseball background is fighting my golf swing and gives me three simple, actionable feels to finally get my sequencing right.

We go deep on Smash Factor, Center of Mass, ground reaction forces, and the "kinematic sequence," but Quinn makes it simple. The result? I gained 15+ yards with my 7-iron almost instantly just by moving my body differently.

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then why not watch this episode on The ModGolf YouTube channel!
---> https://youtu.be/YKW9Nqjhw24 or click on the image to add some video to the sounds and words.

Episode Chapters
0:00 - Intro: From Short Game to Full Swing
1:30 - Smash Factor 101: What Rory's Driver Controversy Teaches Us
4:45 - The BIG Diagnosis: ** Where is My Pelvis at Impact?
**8:15 - The "Dipping" Problem & Trail Leg Extension
10:00 - The Mountain Analogy: Why Your Old Swing Never Dies
13:30 - Golf Swing Sequencing Explained (Hands → Arms → Shoulders → Hips)
16:45 - The "Bump" Drill: Getting Left Sooner
20:30 - Ground Reaction Forces: Using the Ground Like a Pro
24:15 - Creating Space: Why Your Hips Are Blocking Your Swing
28:00 - ** The "Third Grade Bump" Live Drill
**31:00 - Exaggeration is Key: Rehearsing vs. Swinging
35:00 - 7-Iron Results: The Launch Monitor Doesn't Lie (+15 Yards!)
39:00 - Preseason Drill: The Yoga Ball Move (Indoor Training)
41:00 - Part 4 Preview: The Driver (The Club I Dread)

What You’ll Learn in This Golf Lesson:
• The real reason you flip or scoop at impact (and how to fix it with your body, not your hands).
• The simple "Trail Leg Extension" feel that stops you from dipping down.
• How getting your center of mass in front of the ball changes your club path instantly.
• The one indoor winter drill to improve your swing sequence without hitting balls.
• Why golf fitness (with Cameron Barkley) and golf instruction must work together for all golfers, but especially for older ones like me.

RELATED VIDEOS & RESOURCES
👉 Book a virtual or in-person lesson with Quinn Vilneff at https://universitygolf.com/quinn-vilneff/
or on Instagram @vangolfpro

👉 Watch The Rebuild - Part 1: Are You Ready for a Golf Transformation That Actually LASTS?
--> https://youtu.be/Vtxcxs_If4I

👉 Watch The Rebuild - Part 2: Are You Ready To Fix Your Short Game By Understanding Spin Loft?
--> https://youtu.be/9yuk1xCW-t0

👉 Check out Gowanus Golf Club in Vancouver, the indoor facility featuring TrackMan.
--> https://ggcvirtualgolf.ca/

👉 Cameron Barkley - Vancouver Golf Performance
--> https://www.vancouvergolfperformance.com/

Special Guest: Quinn Vilneff - Class A PGA of Canada Teaching Professional..

The Rebuild - Part 2: Are You Ready To Fix Your Short Game By Understanding Spin Loft?

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:45:00 -0800

Do you chunk a chip then blade it over the green on the next shot? 😫😫😫

If you’re a struggling golfer tired of wasting strokes around the green, this video is your ultimate wake-up call. In Part 2 of "The Rebuild" series, ModGolf host Colin Weston (a 16-handicap on a mission) gears up for the first of three in-depth instruction sessions with Quinn Vilneff, a Class A PGA of Canada Teaching Professional.

In this 36-minute masterclass, we completely overhaul Colin’s short game technique. Quinn reveals why most amateurs struggle with consistency, how your driving faults might be ruining your chipping, and the simple "Dollarama towel drill" that instantly fixes fat and thin contact.

Whether you're looking for golf lessons, golf tips for beginners, or advanced golf game improvement strategies to lower your scores and have more fun, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can take straight to the course (or your indoor simulator like Colin did using Trackman at Gowanus Golf Club in Vancovuer!).

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then why not watch this episode on The ModGolf YouTube channel!
---> https://youtu.be/9yuk1xCW-t0 or click on the image to add some video to the sounds and words.

Episode Chapters
0:00 - Intro: Colin introduces "The Rebuild" Part 2 and the mission to go from a 16.4 to a 12 handicap in 2026.
1:30 - Meet Quinn Vilneff: From caddying on the PGA Tour to coaching in Vancouver. Learn how his high-performance background shapes his teaching.
4:25 - The Perfect Warm-Up: Quinn shares the "10-Yard Progression Drill" to avoid injury and build feel before you even think about touching your driver.
8:20 - Why Short Game Saves Scores: The difference between a good round and a great round? Disaster avoidance around the greens.
11:45 - Colin’s Stroke Savers Data: Analyzing the stats: Why Colin putts like a 4-handicap but chips like a 20-handicap.
14:40 - The "S" Word & The Revelation: Why Colin is hitting chips off the toe (and occasionally the hosel), and how his driver swing is ruining his short game.
19:00 - The Towel Drill: The simple, low-cost training aid that fixes an "inside-out" chip swing instantly.
23:15 - Understanding Bounce & Spin Loft: Quinn explains the physics of using your wedge's bounce to get consistent contact even in wet Vancouver conditions.
26:30 - Flipping the Script: Learning to get "steep and left" for short shots vs. "shallow and right" for the driver.
32:00 - Instant Improvement: Colin sees the data change on TrackMan - path fixed, center contact achieved!
34:00 - What’s Next: A preview of The Rebuild Part 3 (Irons) and Part 4 (Driver).

What You’ll Learn in This Golf Lesson:
Proper Warmup Techniques: How to prepare your body without reinforcing bad habits.
Chipping Fundamentals: Why you need to use the bounce of the wedge, especially on tight lies or wet turf.
Path Correction: How to fix a shallow, inside chip shot that leads to inconsistency.
Game Improvement Strategy: The mindset shift from trying to hit perfect shots to simply avoiding disastrous ones.
TrackMan Data: Understanding Club Path, Spin Loft, and why Carry Distance matters more than Total Distance.

RELATED VIDEOS & RESOURCES
👉 Book a virtual or in-person lesson with Quinn Vilneff through his Instagram @vangolfpro https://www.instagram.com/vangolfpro/

👉 Watch The Rebuild - Part 1: Are You Ready for a Golf Transformation That Actually LASTS?
--> https://youtu.be/Vtxcxs_If4I

👉 Check out Gowanus Golf Club in Vancouver, the indoor facility featuring TrackMan.
--> https://ggcvirtualgolf.ca/

👉 Learn more about Arccos Golf sensors to track your own strokes gained data like Colin does.
--> https://ca.arccosgolf.com/

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

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.

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

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

Special Guest: Quinn Vilneff - Class A PGA of Canada Teaching Professional..

Live from The PGA Show 2026: Startups From The Inventors Spotlight

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0800

Welcome to a bonus episode of The ModGolf Podcast, live from the floor of the 2026 PGA Show in Orlando! Host Colin Weston continues his "short and sharp" interviews, heading back to the Inventors Spotlight to find the most intriguing and impactful new startups in the game.

This 10-minute power session features two very different but equally innovative companies. First, we explore a groundbreaking safety solution designed to address the rising threat of heat-related illnesses on the course. Then, we shift gears to discover a fun, new way to gamify at-home practice and bring the entertainment of the range to your own backyard.

From life-saving technology to interactive gaming, discover how these entrepreneurs are shaping the future of the golf experience.

Featured Innovators
Conor Martins - Founder & CEO, Rapid Risk Reduction (R3) and HEATbox
Gavin Cayenne - VP of Sales, Rapid Risk Reduction (R3) and HEATbox

Brad Thompson - Founder & Creator, Black Hole Golf

Key takeaways that you will discover:
Golf Courses Need a Heat-Stroke Protocol, Not Just an AED. The team at Rapid Risk Reduction highlights a critical gap in course safety. Just as AEDs are standard for cardiac events, courses need accessible, idiot-proof tools for heat-related emergencies. The HEATbox's built-in video instruction ensures anyone, regardless of training, can step in and help during the critical minutes before medical help arrives.

Practice Doesn't Have to Feel Like Practice. Brad from Black Hole Golf is tapping into the power of gamification to change golfer behavior. By combining physical, interactive targets with a digital app for scoring and leaderboards, he’s created a product that makes skill-building fun, social, and accessible anywhere. It’s a solution that solves the problem of mundane practice by turning the backyard into an entertainment venue.

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Del, Chris and Matt on The ModGolf YouTube channel live from The 2026 PGA Show. Click on this link or the image below as we extend our podcast conversation with key takeaways and lessons learned.

What You'll Discover in This Episode
Chapter 1: [0:00] Welcome Back to ModGolf LIVE!
Colin sets the scene from the PGA Show floor, introducing his mission to highlight early-stage growth companies from the Inventors Showcase.

Chapter 2: [1:15] Introducing Rapid Risk Reduction & The HEATbox
Conor Martins shares the origin story of his company, which started with an opioid reversal tool that saved over 500 lives, and explains why they pivoted to address the growing problem of heat strokes in golf.

Chapter 3: [3:00] HEATbox Demo: The AED for Heat Strokes
Gavin Cayenne, a former PGA professional, provides a hands-on demo of the HEATbox. He walks us through its three key components: the heat stress kit, the hydration pack, and the revolutionary video technology that guides any bystander through an emergency with bilingual instructions.

Chapter 4: [6:00] Instilling Confidence in a Crisis
The team discusses the importance of "bystander response" and how the HEATbox’s video guidance gives users the confidence to act immediately, potentially saving lives on remote parts of the course where EMS is 15-20 minutes away.

Chapter 5: [7:45] Black Hole Golf: Marrying Tradition with Entertainment
Colin meets Brad Thompson, drawn in by the intriguing name "Black Hole Golf." Brad explains his mission to create a gamified practice experience for any open space, blending the feel of traditional golf with the entertainment value of Topgolf.

Chapter 6: [8:45] The Black Hole Golf Demo
Brad showcases his interactive system, featuring light-up, sound-making target discs that work with real golf balls from 10 to 200+ yards. He explains how the companion app tracks points, creates leaderboards, and allows you to challenge friends, making practice feel like a game, especially at night.

Chapter 7: [9:45] Where to Find Them & The Journey Ahead
Brad announces the beta launch for Black Hole Golf and invites listeners to sign up. Conor and Gavin provide their contact information and a special show deal for the HEATbox.

Resources & Links
Learn more about HEATbox & Rapid Risk Reduction (R3):
Website: www.rthree.io
Social Media: @RapidRiskReduction
PGA Show Special: Get two free HEATboxes with the purchase of 15.

Join the Black Hole Golf Beta:
Website (for Beta sign-up): www.blackholegolf.com/PGA

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

Live from The PGA Show 2026: Inside Golf's AI Revolution with CourseRev.ai & PITCHcrm

The ModGolf Podcast — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 07:15:00 -0800

Host: Colin Weston
Guests: Del Ratcliffe (President, CourseRev.ai), Matt Wade (VP of Product, PITCHcrm), Chris Hill (CTO, CourseRev.ai)
Duration: 28 Minutes

In this episode of ModGolf LIVE, recorded on the show floor at the 2026 PGA Show in Orlando, host Colin Weston sits down with the leadership team behind CourseRev.ai and PITCHcrm. This isn't just a conversation about technology; it's a deep dive into the real-world challenges of getting a tradition-rich industry to adopt modern solutions.

Colin is joined by Del Ratcliffe (President of CourseRev.ai & COO of Pinnacle Golf Properties), Matt Wade (VP of Product, PITCHcrm), and Chris Hill (CTO, CourseRev.ai). Together, they discuss the "secret sauce" of their tech stack - from an AI voice concierge that answers the phone to a CRM that automates marketing - and how they balance cutting-edge AI with the human touch required to train course operators.

Del, bringing his 30+ years of course ownership experience, shares why he’s the "main guinea pig" for the products, how they handle the complexity of different golf course business models, and why getting a course to use the tech is harder than selling it. The team also teases the future of dynamic pricing using unstructured data and explains why AI isn't about replacing staff, but about freeing them up to create better face-to-face experiences.

Key Topics & Discussion Points
Live from the PGA Show: Colin introduces a "3x" interview with three guests representing two integrated companies.

What is CourseRev AI? An AI-powered voice and chat concierge designed to handle tee time bookings, modifications, and general questions, taking the pressure off pro shop staff.

The "Main Guinea Pig": How Del Ratcliffe’s role as a multi-course operator (Pinnacle Golf Properties) allows the tech team to build solutions that solve real, painful problems.

Introducing PITCHcrm: The "oldest product" in the family (since 2012) that automates email and SMS marketing based on customer reservation history, no-shows, and behavior.

The Adoption Hurdle: Why selling the software is easy, but onboarding and training staff on how to use it is the real challenge in a non-early-adopter industry.

Customization vs. Scaling: How the team handles the fact that no two golf courses are alike. Chris Hill explains how they now use natural language programming to quickly customize AI rules for specific course restrictions (e.g., "no seniors after 2 PM on Saturday").

Dynamic Pricing Deep Dive: The debate among owners about surge pricing, and how CourseRev.ai integrates instantly with tee sheets to reflect pricing changes.

The Tease: Chris Hill hints at new dynamic pricing strategies that use unstructured data (like weather and demand factors) in ways humans never could.

Serving Different Course Types: How the technology adapts to MCOs (Multi-Course Operators) with one clubhouse vs. multiple locations spread across states.

The "Robocall" Fear: Addressing the misconception that AI phone answering is like the frustrating automated systems of 10 years ago.

AI & Employment: The team confirms that AI isn't eliminating jobs; it’s allowing staff to focus on high-value, face-to-face interactions in the pro shop.

Measuring Success: Using AI to track KPIs, identify frequently asked questions, and help course operators improve their websites and customer service.

Notable Quotes
Del on the Industry: "We're still largely an industry of mom-and-pop operations out there. Change is not real easy for us to overcome, and it can be scary, too."

Chris on Tech Debt: "With AI, we can actually implement that much easier rather than trying to build something really rigid and structured in code. We can just write that now in natural language."

Matt on Staffing: "Everyone listening to this has probably been in a situation where you've been in the pro shop and the guy's on two phones. It's definitely not eliminating staff because then you can even get more face-to-face quality interactions."

Colin on Entrepreneurship: "If you don't have challenges as a startup you need to challenge yourself more. Like me with snowboarding, if you're not falling down you're not going fast enough."

Resources & Links
Learn more about CourseRev.ai: https://www.courserev.ai
Email CourseRev: hello@courserev.ai
Learn more about PITCHcrm: https://www.pitchcrm.com

Want to connect with Del? Check out his bio page to make that happen! >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/del-ratcliffe

Timestamps
[00:00] - Cold Open: Colin introduces the "3x" interview at the 2026 PGA Show
[01:30] - Guest Introductions: Del Ratcliffe, Matt Wade, and Chris Hill
[03:00] - What is CourseRev.ai? Solving the pro shop phone pressure with an AI concierge
[04:45] - Del's Dual Role: The President of CourseRev.ai as the client (COO of Pinnacle Golf Properties)
[07:15] - The Tech Stack Explained: How PITCHcrm integrates with CourseRev.ai for marketing automation
[09:00] - The Education Gap: Why golf course owners are laggards in tech adoption and how to warm them up to AI
[12:00] - Customer Success Story: *The journey from reluctance to evangelism
*[15:30] - Balancing Customization & Scale: How the team handles the "mom-and-pop" nature of different courses using natural language AI
[19:15] - The Human Element: Onboarding staff and using the "Notice Board" for real-time course conditions
[21:45] - Dynamic Pricing: Agonizing over surge pricing and how AI uses unstructured data to predict demand
[24:30] - One Size Doesn't Fit All: Differentiating tech needs for MCOs, daily fee, municipal, and private clubs
[28:00] - Overcoming Misconceptions: Why this isn't the frustrating automated attendant of the past
[30:00] - AI & Jobs: How automation creates more valuable face-to-face roles in the pro shop
[31:15] - How to Connect: Finding CourseRev.ai and PITCHcrm online
[32:00] - Wrap Up: Colin teases the "Innovators Spotlight" mini-segments coming up next

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

Scaling Success: How Golf Genius Grew into a Global Powerhouse - Chris Kallmeyer, Golf Genius CEO

The ModGolf Podcast — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 11:45:00 -0800

What does it take to build a golf technology empire that not only survives but thrives through explosive growth, multiple acquisitions, and rapid industry change? In this power-packed episode, Colin Weston sits down with Chris Kallmeyer, the CEO of Golf Genius, for a masterclass in scaling a business while preserving its core soul. Four years after his first appearance, Chris returns to pull back the curtain on how Golf Genius grew from a tournament software leader into a comprehensive ecosystem serving every facet of the golf professional’s world. We dive deep into the "glue" that holds it all together - a winning company culture - and explore the cutting-edge integrations of AI, the strategic expansion into sim golf, and the mission to create golfers for life.

If you're in the golf industry, a business leader, or simply fascinated by how to build a beloved and enduring company, press play now. This conversation is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss.

Listen to this full episode with Chris to discover:
Culture is Your #1 Competitive Advantage:
Discover why Golf Genius prioritizes cultural fit above all else, even in acquisitions, and how this focus has resulted in a world-class employee turnover rate of just 4%. Learn how a foundation of over 70 PGA professionals on staff creates an authentic, service-driven brand.

Serving the PGA Professional is the North Star:
Unpack the strategy of viewing the golf professional as the "center of the universe." See how this philosophy naturally led to a portfolio that solves pain points in tournament management, golf shop operations (Golf Shop), handicapping (via the USGA’s GHIN system), and coaching (Operation 36 & CoachNow).

The Practical & Profitable Application of AI:
Move beyond the hype. Chris details exactly how Golf Genius is implementing AI in two key buckets: to boost internal productivity (in development, support, and marketing) and to build powerful, time-saving features for customers, like automated inventory processing and intelligent coaching tools.

Episode Chapters:
(00:04) Introduction: The Return of Chris Kallmeyer
(02:18) The Foundation: Golf Genius as a Tournament Management Powerhouse
(05:53) The Secret Sauce: Building and Maintaining Company Culture
(08:21) Acquisition Strategy: Why Cultural Fit is Non-Negotiable
(19:02) Defining the Brand: Vision, Values, and Serving the Pro
(13:18) Inside the Ecosystem: Powering the USGA’s Handicap System
(16:36) Solving Pain Points: The Growth of Golf Shop
(19:52) AI in Action: Making Golf Genius and Its Customers More Productiv
(24:52) Growing the Game: The Coaching Portfolio (Operation 36 & CoachNow)
(30:23) The Future is Hybrid: Expanding into Simulator & Indoor Golf
(36:10) Global Growth: Key International Markets
(39:53) Leadership Lessons: Strategic Bets and Saying "No"
(41:51) How to Connect with Golf Genius

Compelling Quotes from Chris
On Culture & Growth: "We have a blended turnover with 300 people worldwide of something like 4% a year. That's world-class. It illustrates that we have a great culture that people enjoy working for. But beyond luck, we do take it very seriously and we work hard to maintain that culture, which gets harder and harder as you get bigger."*

On Their Core Mission: "Our goal is to make the hard things easy while also making the easy things easy. We serve PGA professionals. They're the center of our universe. Whether they're running tournaments, managing golf shops, or coaching, we have products that help them do all those things, and we're here to serve them."

On AI Strategy: "We look at AI in two primary buckets: How can we use AI to make ourselves more productive? And the second bucket is, how can we use AI to deliver AI-powered features that make our customers more productive or deliver capabilities that they don't already have."

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Chris on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to see visual insights and dive deeper with Chris.

Chris Kallmeyer's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/chris-kallmeyer
Chris Kallmeyer is the CEO of Golf Genius, a global leader in golf technology solutions that power the sport's ecosystem. With a career deeply rooted in both technology and a passion for the game, Chris has guided the company through a period of remarkable expansion, transforming it from a premier tournament management platform into a comprehensive suite of tools serving golf professionals at every level. Under his leadership, Golf Genius has successfully integrated ten strategic acquisitions—including Operation 36, CoachNow, and GolfShot—while maintaining an unwavering focus on a customer-centric culture and brand integrity. His philosophy centers on serving PGA professionals as the core of the business, a principle that has driven the development and success of products across tournament operations, golf shop management, handicapping, and player development.

Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience?

Today's golf professionals do way more than run tournaments - and so does Golf Genius. They help you manage tournaments, leagues, and outings, streamline pro shop operations, and elevate your coaching and player development. That's why over 10,000 clubs, courses, resorts, associations, and tours in more than 60 countries trust Golf Genius. Find out what Golf Genius can do for your facility 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: Chris Kallmeyer, CEO at Golf Genius Software.

Colin's 18 Top Holiday Golf Gift Picks For Under $150

The ModGolf Podcast — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0800

Are there golfers on your Nice List who are deserving of some holiday cheer? Our host Colin Weston is here to help, as he provides golf gift picks to stuff your stockings and slide under your tree. But how many gift suggestions should we provide from our shortlist of deserving golf startups and companies that we have featured on The ModGolf Podcast? Well, since a traditional round of golf is 18 holes long let's go with that number!

Click on the images below to learn more about and/or purchase the products we cover on this bonus episode.

Hole 1: GripCaddie - revolutionary golf grip cleaning tool --> https://gripcaddie.com/

Hole 2: Grooveit - "The Wet Club Scrub Brush" --> https://grooveitbrush.ca/collections/shop-now

Hole 3: Method Golf Co. - Magnetic Golf Accessories --> https://methodgolfco.com/

Hole 4: The Tee Clip - Handcrafted tee holding accessory
Use coupon code "MODGOLF" to save 20% off a single item --> https://theteeclip.com/

Hole 5: The Links Diary - Golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game through words from the fairways of Scotland. A beautifully crafted magazine with new volumes released three times a year --> https://www.thelinksdiary.com/

Hole 6: Back 2 Basics Golf - Short Game Essentials Bundle
Use coupon code "MODGOLF" to save 20% off a single item --> https://back2basics.golf

Hole 7: PureOne - PureGrip Training Club --> https://pureonegolfshop.com

Hole 8: Perfect Practice - indoor putting mats --> https://perfectpractice.com

Hole 9: Swingtweaks - Personalized golf swing analysis and feedback app --> https://app.swingtweaks.com

Hole 10: V1 Sports - The V1 Golf App --> https://v1sports.com

Hole 11: ODIN Golf - Premium X1 Golf balls --> https://www.odin-golf.com/

Hole 12: Dormie Workshop - Handcrafted leather headcovers --> https://www.dormieworkshop.ca/

Hole 13: Zero Friction - synthetic & cabretta leather high performance golf gloves --> https://zerofriction.com/

Hole 14: Garsen Golf - customized putter grips --> https://garsengolf.com/collections/shop

Hole 15: 36 A Day Golf Co. - ModGolf hats and hoodies --> https://36aday.com/products/modgolf-the-reegs

Hole 16: Feetures - high performance athletic socks --> https://feetures.com/

Hole 17: Handsome Bogey - fun and fashionable men's golf polo shirts --> https://handsomebogey.com/

Hole 18: Levelwear - Men's and women's golf belts --> https://ca.levelwear.com/collections/mens-belts

How Golf Is Healing Heroes - Jonathan Sessa, Founder of Warrior Golf Academy

The ModGolf Podcast — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0800

Warning: the topic of suicide is discussed during this episode of The ModGolf Podcast.

This is more than a story about golf; it's a story about how a single moment, a single community, a single purpose can pull someone back from the brink and empower them to save others.

Listen to this full episode with Jonathan to discover:

The Therapeutic Power of a Single Shot:
Jonathan explains how the intense, fleeting focus required to hit a golf ball can break the cycle of traumatic "thought traps" and provide a unique form of mental therapy.

Building a "Technical School" for Golf & Life:
Learn about Jonathan's vision to create a comprehensive pathway for veterans and first responders. Not just to play golf, but to build careers in the industry as players, caddies, clubhouse staff, and agronomy crews.

From Isolation to Community:
Hear how the Warrior Golf Academy is intentionally designed to combat the #1 killer—isolation—by creating a tight-knit, supportive community that replicates the camaraderie of military and first responder teams.

Episode Chapters:
(01:15) Introduction: The Transformative Power of Golf
(01:54) Jonathan's Story Begins: A Descent into Darkness
(07:24) The Turning Point: A Divine Intervention
(10:23) The Road to Recovery: Costa Rica and a Return to Golf
(13:50) The Birth of a Mission: Founding the Warrior Golf Academy
(17:55) Discipline on the Course vs. the Battlefield
(22:58) Filling the Gaps: A New Model for Veteran Support
(27:05) Stories of Transformation: The Ripple Effect of Hope
(31:45) Creating Community: Indoor Simulators and Local Events
(34:05) The Ripple Effect on Families and Communities
(37:12) The Future Vision: Scaling Hope and Building a "Golf Technical College"
(41:39) A Message to Those Struggling: "You Are Not Alone"
(43:22) How to Get Involved and Support the Mission

Quotable Moments from Jonathan:
On Purpose:
"What people are looking for in this life is belonging and purpose. If you don't have those, then you don't have that will to want to live."

On Golf as Therapy:
"It's really just that extreme focus for the few seconds it takes to hit the golf ball and then you don't have to think about anything. It helps me get out of my own way."

On His Mission:
"My vision for Warrior Golf Academy is to reach at least one person and save their life. If I could do that, then everything I've done is worth it."

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Jonathan on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

Jonathan Sessa's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/jonathan-sessa
Jonathan Sessa is a US Army veteran and the Founder & CEO of the Warrior Golf Academy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and rebuilding purpose for veterans and first responders. His journey is a profound testament to post-traumatic growth. After his military service, Jonathan faced a profound period of darkness, grappling with the physical pain of service-connected injuries, the grief of personal loss, and the isolation that led him to the brink of suicide. His path to healing began with a powerful personal intervention and a transformative period in Costa Rica, where he rediscovered golf not just as a game, but as a therapeutic tool for mental wellness and a catalyst for his new mission.

Driven by his own experience, Jonathan founded the Warrior Golf Academy to create the supportive community he found lacking. His vision extends far beyond teaching the golf swing. He is building a comprehensive "technical school" for the golf industry, providing veterans and first responders with the skills and connections to build careers as players, caddies, club managers, and agronomy staff. By focusing on belonging, purpose, and tangible career pathways, Jonathan's work directly combats the isolation that leads to the tragic statistic of "22 a day."

Today, Jonathan leads a growing movement from the Academy's home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is a certified PGA HOPE instructor and a passionate advocate for leveraging the game's unique disciplines—focus, patience, and incremental improvement—to rewire the mind and heal the spirit. His work ensures that those who have served their country have a welcoming community they can return to, proving that our deepest wounds can indeed become the source of our greatest purpose.

Connect and Support the Mission
You can learn more about Jonathan and the incredible work of the Warrior Golf Academy, including how to get involved, donate or access their resources at their website: https://warriorgolfacademy.com/

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. In the US, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. We also encourage you to reach out to Heads Up Guys for mental health resources, tools and support.

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

We want to thank Golf Genius Software who have supported 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.

Special Guest: Jonathan Sessa - Founder of The Warrior Golf Academy.

Creating a unique lesson path for every golfer - Alex Prasad, CEO at V1 Sports

The ModGolf Podcast — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 12:30:00 -0800

In this episode of The ModGolf Podcast host Colin Weston sits down with Alex Prasad, the CEO of V1 Sports, a company that has been a cornerstone of golf technology for over three decades. Alex shares the journey of V1 Sports from its origins in pioneering video analysis to its current position as an innovator leveraging AI and ground force sensors.

We dive deep into the pivotal "come-to-Jesus" moment that forced the company to re-evaluate its path, the cultural shift to a data-driven mindset, and how they are now using their new AI tool, "V1CTOR," to solve the biggest pain points for golf instructors - time and student engagement. This is a masterclass in business transformation, product-market fit, and building a platform that creates a true win-win-win for the company, the coach, and the golfer.

During this episode you will discover these inspiring takeaways:

Embrace the "Why" Behind the Data
Learn how V1 Sports moved beyond assumptions by relentlessly asking "how do we know?" This shift to a data-validated culture gave them the courage to innovate confidently and build products based on proven user needs, not just gut feelings.

Solve the Real Problem, Not the Stated One
Discover how Alex and his team decoded the common complaint from pros that they "don't have enough time." They uncovered the deeper issue of seasonality and student re-engagement, leading to AI-driven solutions that automate relationship-building.

Trust is Built by Providing Value First
Hear how V1 Sports flipped the script on traditional coaching models. By using AI to facilitate a "Quick Fix"—a free, personalized piece of feedback—they create a gateway to trust between a golfer and a pro, proving value before a transaction ever occurs.

Episode Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:29) The Power of Invitation: Alex's First Golf Experience
(04:02) The Origin Story of V1 Sports
(06:55) The Innovator's Dilemma: The Inflection Point for V1
(12:18) The Hard Work of Product Validation: Talking to Customers
(16:11) The V1 Product Suite and the Introduction of "V1CTOR" AI
(22:14) Building Trust in a Digital World
(27:40) The V1 Business Model: A Two-Sided, Curated Marketplace
(31:51) The Hardware Game: Ground Pressure Sensors and the Unseeable Data
(34:33) Expanding to Other Sports? The Power of Focus
(38:44) The Entrepreneurial Marathon: Lessons from Endurance Sports
(43:30) How to Connect with Alex Prasad and V1 Sports

Book referenced during our converation: The Innovator's Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen

Quotable Moments from Alex:

On Challenging Assumptions:
"Intuition can tell you where to look, but the data is going to validate or invalidate that's the right place to press."

On Understanding Customer Needs:
"What you learn is, customers can tell you their pain points, they can tell you their aspirations, but what they can't tell you is the solution... It's not their job. That's ours."

On the Core Philosophy of V1's AI companion, V1CTOR:
"The best way to build trust between a random person on the internet and a golf instructor is to show some value first."

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Alex on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below.

Want to connect with Alex? Check out his bio page to make that happen!
Alex Prasad's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/alex-prasad

Visit the V1 Sports website to learn more and to download the V1 Golf App in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

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: Alex Prasad - CEO at V1 Sports.

Sniffing Out the Best Tee Times with Kelly Gold, Founder of TeeFox.golf

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0700

In this episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with Kelly Gold, the innovative founder behind TeeFox.golf. Kelly shares his journey from a solutions engineer in the tech world to tackling one of golf's most persistent frustrations: booking a great tee time. We dive into the $12.3 billion problem plaguing golf courses, the strategy behind building the largest tee time catalog in the US, and how a forced rebrand led to one of the most memorable names in golf tech.

If you've ever spent an hour refreshing golf course websites or wondered how technology can make golf more accessible, this conversation is for you.

Watch the Live Demo:
Colin and Kelly jump over to the ModGolf YouTube channel right after this episode for a live demo of the TeeFox platform! See how it works and how you can book your next tee time at over 7,000 courses in the US.
Watch the TeeFox.golf Demo on YouTube >> https://youtu.be/xpvjWa24zio

During this episode you will discover these key takeaways:
The $12.3 Billion Leak:
Hear the shocking scale of revenue golf courses lose annually due to last-minute cancellations and no-shows, and how TeeFox is designed to recapture that value.

Beyond the "Golf Now" Model:
Learn why the traditional aggregator business model fails to include many top-tier courses and how TeeFox's different approach aims to create a truly comprehensive, golfer-first marketplace.

The Power of a Pivot:
Kelly's initial brand, TeeBox, faced a trademark challenge. Hear how this setback led to the creation of the clever and memorable TeeFox brand, proving that sometimes the biggest obstacles lead to the best opportunities.

Subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode with the innovators shaping the future of golf. Listen to the full episode on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | The ModGolf Website www.mod.golf

Episode Chapters:
00:28 - Introducing Today's Guest: Kelly Gold of TeeFox.golf
00:57 - Kelly Gold Joins the Show from Denver, Colorado
01:15 - How a Meeting in Ireland Led to This Conversation
01:27 - The Icebreaker: Kelly's First Golf Experience and Who Got Him Hooked
03:30 - Decoding "Solutions Engineering" and Kelly's Tech Background
05:47 - The TeeFox Elevator Pitch: Building the Premier Tee Time Distributor
07:03 - TeeFox's Secret Sauce: Differentiating from GolfNow and Other Competitors
09:40 - Building a Two-Sided Marketplace that Benefits Golf Courses
12:11 - The Technology Culture Shock: Bringing Tech Innovation to the Golf Industry
15:28 - The Staggering Statistics of Tee Time Cancellations and No-Shows
17:22 - The TeeFox Revenue Model: Subscriptions, Fees, and Golfer Choice
19:45 - Scaling Nationally: The Goal of 8,000-9,000 Golf Courses
20:54 - The Story Behind the Rebrand: From TeeBox to the Memorable TeeFox
24:44 - The Worst Job Kelly Ever Had and What It Taught Him
27:56 - Building the Team: Leveraging a Network of Talented People
29:28 - The Aha Moment: From Side Hustle Prototype to Full-Time Venture
33:44 - Where to Find TeeFox.golf Online
34:11 - Closing Remarks and a Tease for the YouTube Demo

Quotable Moment:
"Wouldn't it be cool if you could send your user a notification saying, 'hey, a tee time just opened up at that course you play all the time'?... there are ways that we can get this data out into the industry to create better experiences for golfers." - Kelly on the vision for TeeFox as a data platform for the entire golf industry.

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Kelly Gold on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below as Kelly walks Colin through a live TeeFox.Golf demo to effortlessly book a couple of tee times.

Want to connect with Kelly? Check out his bio page to make that happen!
Kelly Gold's bio >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/kelly-gold

Do you find yourself frustrated by lack of available tee times in your area? If you are, then visit the TeeFox website or click on the image below to unlock access to tee times and to receive wait list cancellation alerts.

Follow TeeFox.Golf on social media:
• Instagram: @teefoxdotgolf
• TikTok: @teefoxdotgolf

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

I'm excited to announce that we launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! 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.

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

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

Special Guest: Kelly Gold - Founder at TeeFox.Golf.

Combining Entertainment and Education to Improve Your Golf Game - David Buck, CEO at Big Swing Kings

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 14:15:00 -0700

In this high-energy season 18 premiere, host Colin Weston sits down with David Buck, the charismatic and hilarious founder of Big Swing Kings. David is on a mission to inject more joy and simplicity into the game of golf, moving away from over-complicated instruction and back to the fundamental truths of what makes a ball go straight.

Tune in for a conversation filled with laughs, practical wisdom, and a refreshingly simple approach to solving golf’s most frustrating problems.

Watch the video version with a special swing roast of host Colin Weston on: The ModGolf YouTube Channel

Featured Links & Resources:
Big Swing Kings Website: [www.bigswingkings.com]
Follow David on Instagram: [@bigswingkings]

During this episode you will discover these inspiring takeaways:
1. Stop Chasing "Consistency" and Start Understanding Impact
The golf world is obsessed with backswing positions, elbow angles, and perfect posture. David argues that this is backwards. The most important moment is the micro-second of impact. If you don’t know what a good impact position looks and feels like, you can’t possibly build a consistent swing around it. David’s entire philosophy starts with mastering a one-foot back, one-foot through motion to ingrain this feeling before ever adding speed.

2. The Fastest Path to Improvement is Often the Simplest
Golf is a simple game, but it is not an easy one. David advocates for stripping away complexity, both in swing thought and in equipment. He is a staunch advocate for single-length irons (from lob wedge to at least the 8-iron) because they remove variables like changing ball positions and spine angles, allowing you to focus purely on the strike. This simplicity creates inherent accuracy and makes the game easier to learn.

3. You Have to Choose Fun to Play Your Best Golf
Frustration, anger, and the dreaded shanks can make golf feel like a chore. David’s unique approach uses humor, light-hearted roasting, and camaraderie to break down the barriers of fear and frustration. By creating a community where it’s okay to laugh at yourself, he helps golfers relax, which is the first step toward playing better and truly enjoying their time on the course.

Episode Chapters:
00:00 - Welcome to Season 18!
01:19 - Who is David Buck and What is Big Swing Kings?
02:16 - David’s “Failed Pro” Background and Philosophy
04:21 - The Overwhelmed Golfer’s Dilemma
04:38 - The Big Swing Kings Process: Start at Impact
06:31 - The Viral AHA Moment That Started It All
09:54 - The Story Behind the "Big Swing Kings" Name
11:30 - Is This Only for "Kings"? (Spoiler: No. Queens are welcome too!)
13:47 - The Upcoming Swing Roast of Host Colin Weston!
13:46 - Why David is Learning to Play Golf LEFT-HANDED
16:38 - The Case for Single-Length Irons
21:55 - How to Work with Big Swing Kings
25:31 - A Testimonial: Curing the Dreaded Shanks
33:14 - YouTube Golf, Tiny Clubs, and Storytelling
37:35 - Wrap-Up & How to Connect

Quotable Moment:
“The general consensus is fantastic. Same length eliminates complexities and it helps everybody. The fewer variables there are in my equipment, the easier it is for me to find straight.” - David Buck

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with David Buck on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below as Colin has his 16 handicap swing ROASTED by David before helping with some simple and straightforward improvement drills.

Want to connect with David? Check out his bio page to make that happen!
David Buck's bio >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/david-buck

Care to have your swing roasted? (oops, we meant analyzed!) Then visit the Big Swing Kings website or click on the image below to set something up with David.

Follow Big Swing Kings on social media:
• Instagram: @bigswingkings
• TikTok: @bigswingkings

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

"The Innovation Behind The Incision" - Helping Golfers Reclaim The Game They Love

The ModGolf Podcast — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 20:45:00 -0700

"Don't wait one minute. It is not worth giving up one minute of your quality life"... Teddy Koukoulis, avid elite level golfer and one of Dr. Richard Berger's knee replacement patients. Join us for this enlightening conversation that blends sports, science, and personal triumph, and discover how innovation in medicine is reshaping the future of golf!

In this milestone episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston celebrates the 200th episode with two remarkable guests: Dr. Richard Berger, a pioneering orthopedic surgeon, and his knee replacement patient Teddy Koukoulis, who is an avid golfer and PGA Teaching Pro. They discuss Dr. Berger's innovative knee and hip replacement techniques that are transforming the outcomes and recovery process for golfers, high performance athletes and everyday people wanting to reclaim their quality of life.

During this episode you will discover these inspiring takeaways:
Revolutionary Recovery: Dr. Berger's minimally invasive knee replacement technique allows patients to recover faster and more completely than traditional methods. This innovation not only reduces pain and swelling but also enables golfers like Teddy to return to the game in record time—Teddy shot a two-over-par 74 just three weeks post-surgery!
Empowerment Through Action: Both Dr. Berger and Teddy emphasize the importance of not waiting to address joint pain. Teddy's journey illustrates how taking proactive steps can lead to a significant improvement in quality of life, allowing individuals to engage in activities they love without the burden of chronic pain.
Mental, Physical and Social Transformation: This episode highlights the profound impact of physical health on mental well-being. Teddy shares how overcoming his knee pain has not only improved his golf game but has also revitalized his overall lifestyle, enabling him to participate in activities he once thought were lost to him.

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Teddy and Dr. Berger on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below as they extend their podcast conversation with commentary on Teddy's post-surgery golf swing video, along with more life-changing inspirational patient success stories from Dr. Berger.

Want to connect with Teddy and/or Dr. Berger? Check out their bio pages to make that happen!
Dr. Richard Berger's bio >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/dr-richard-berger
Teddy Koukoulis' bio >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/teddy-koukoulis

Dr. Richard Berger is a renowned orthopedic surgeon at Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH in Chicago and is a pioneer of minimally invasive knee and hip replacement surgery. His groundbreaking approach preserves muscles, ligaments, and tendons, promoting quicker recovery and less post-surgical pain.

Dr. Berger developed The BEST (Berger Elective Surgery and Telemedicine) Experience, a program designed to streamline the joint replacement process with virtual consultations, pre-surgery guidance, and a seamless recovery plan. Dr. Berger’s approach, which minimizes trauma to soft tissue, tendons and ligaments, allows for a significantly faster recovery time. “Patients experience less pain, fewer complications, and are able to return to normal activities much sooner,” says Dr. Berger.

Visit Outpatient Hip and Knee Surgery or click on the image below for more information on Dr. Berger's innovative techniques and to schedule an appointment.

And don't forget to check out Teddy's inspiring golf swing video on our YouTube channel!
---> https://youtu.be/N-l34doMpq0

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

We want to thank our Episode Presenting Partner Golf Genius Software who have supported 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.

Special Guests: Dr. Richard Berger, Founder of Outpatient Hip and Knee Surgery and Teddy Koukoulis, elite level golfer and Dr. Berger knee replacement recipient.

Transforming The Golf Entertainment Gaming Experience - TJ Schier, CEO/Founder at SmashSwing Immersive

The ModGolf Podcast — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:15:00 -0700

"Our goal is to put a golf club in someone's hands for the very first time so they have a fun, memorable experience."

On this episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston speaks with TJ Schier Jr., the founder of SmashSwing Immersive. They discuss the intersection of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the golf industry, highlighting TJ's unique approach to creating an engaging indoor golf experience.

Join us for an insightful conversation with TJ Schier Jr. as he shares his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative vision behind SmashSwing Immersive. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable lessons on creativity, market understanding, and the power of community feedback.

Key Takeaways you will discover on this episode are:

Embracing Feedback for Innovation
TJ emphasizes the importance of gathering feedback from potential users during the development phase. By inviting a diverse group of testers to experience SmashSwing, he was able to refine the product based on real user experiences rather than assumptions. This iterative process not only improved the technology but also expanded the target market.

Targeting the Non-Golfer Market
SmashSwing aims to attract the 99% of the population that doesn't typically engage with golf. By creating a fun, gamified environment that appeals to social and casual players, TJ is redefining the indoor golf experience. This strategy opens up new avenues for growth and accessibility in the sport.

Building a Strong Brand Identity
TJ discusses the significance of a well-crafted brand and first impressions. By investing in professional branding and creating a polished environment for SmashSwing, he ensures that potential customers see the value and quality of the experience. This focus on branding helps to instill confidence in both consumers and investors.

Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with TJ on The ModGolf YouTube channel as he gives us a SmashSwing demo from their test facility in Dallas. Click on this link or the image below as Colin and TJ extend their podcast conversation with key takeaways and lessons learned that will benefit all entrepreneurs.

Prior to launching SmashSwing, TJ helped ignite the growth of BigShots Golf as part of ClubCorp/Invited to be the second largest player in the golf entertainment space. The brand grew from 1 to 7 units in 20 months with a mix of corporate owned, managed and franchised locations. Want to connect with TJ? Check out his bio page to make that happen!

https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/tj-schier

To learn more about SmashSwing, check out their website at https://smashswingimmersive.com or click on the image below.

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

I'm excited to announce 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.

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

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

Special Guest: TJ Schier - CEO/Founder at SmashSwing Immersive.

Creating "The Expedia For Golf Tournament and Event Planning" - Cory Powell, Co-Founder of Hubble.GOLF

The ModGolf Podcast — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:30:00 -0700

Episode Overview
In this episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston welcomes Cory Powell, co-founder and CEO of Hubble.GOLF. They discuss Cory's journey in golf, his entrepreneurial spirit, and the innovative platform Hubble.GOLF aims to create for golfers, their families and event organizers.

Key Highlights
Introduction to Hubble Golf
Cory describes Hubble Golf as the "Expedia for golf events," aiming to be the largest searchable database for all things golf, including junior, amateur, and professional events.
Cory's First Golf Experience
Cory shares a heartfelt story about how his grandfather introduced him to golf at the age of eight, gifting him a set of junior clubs and taking him to a local driving range.
The Entrepreneurial Journey
From starting a pooper scooper service at eight years old to organizing tournaments and playing professionally, Cory's entrepreneurial spirit has been evident throughout his life.
The AHA Moment for Hubble.GOLF
Cory discusses the challenges he faced while trying to find golf events and how this led to the idea for Hubble.GOLF. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and co-founding with Kevin Lewis, who brought technical expertise to the project.
Market Research and Customer Validation
Cory explains how he gathered feedback from golfers and parents to validate the need for Hubble.GOLF, including surveys that indicated a willingness to pay for the service.
Mentorship and Personal Growth
The importance of mentorship is highlighted as Cory shares his relationship with Jim Casino, who has provided guidance and support throughout his entrepreneurial journey.
Risk-Taking in Entrepreneurship
Cory reflects on his approach to risk-taking, emphasizing the need for passion, perseverance, and the ability to pivot when necessary.

Cory Powell's journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and community in the world of golf and entrepreneurship. Listen in to discover his vision for Hubble.GOLF and the future of golf events.

"Hubble.GOLF is the Expedia of golf events. So everything from junior golf, youth, amateur college, professional, charity, networking, green grass, non-green grass, we will be the largest searchable event database for all things golf. And the idea stemmed from my background trying to find events and figure out a schedule and put together an itinerary and what's the budget around that itinerary and how do I share that itinerary with other people? And that's what we've created."

"On average a parent spends over four hours planning one individual event and a junior golfer participates anywhere between 12 and 18 events in a season. We save parents day's worth of time figuring out their child's season and ultimately save them money on their travel costs."

"If you truly are passionate about what you do, you wake up every day invigorated and excited to get to work, to chase it, put in the work. It's not easy. You have to be disciplined. You have to be willing to do it. My grandpa always used to say, "you have to be willing to pay the price and do what others aren't willing to do." And that's long hours and hard work."

Are you a watcher more than a listener who enjoys entrepreneurship stories? Then you can watch our video as Colin and Cory extend their podcast conversation on The ModGolf YouTube channel . Click on this link of the image below to watch.

Cory Powell is an experienced entreprenuer who founded his first business at 8 years old hustling the neighbours with his "dog poop scoop service". This story is one of the highlights of our conversation! Want to connect with Cory? Check out his bio page to make that happen!

https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/cory-powell

Download Hubble.GOLF for free at https://hubble.golf/home or click on the image below. ModGolf doesn't benefit from your participation. We just like what Cory and his team have created with Hubble.GOLF!

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: Cory Powell, Co-Founder of Hubble.GOLF.

Helping Golfers Play Smarter and Make Better Decisions - Pete Charleston, President and Co-Founder of GolfLogix

The ModGolf Podcast — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:00:00 -0700

"And who do we love? We love you, Colin. We love the 18 handicapper. That's amazing for us because if we get an 18 handicap, a newer youth playing, or we get a woman who is learning golf, their improvement rate is so dramatic. If we can make them more intelligent out there, if we give them a complete view of the course and they're standing on the tee box and they can see the elevation changes they can visualize their shots and we help them read their putts. That was a huge piece because most people don't know how to read greens."

Pete Charleston - President and Co-Founder of GolfLogix joins host Colin Weston tafter his original appearance back in 2018 to bring us up to speed on their newest innovations that include 3D virtual reality hole flyovers.

"With GolfLogix our vision has always been about focusing on the masses. Do we love the really good scratch golfers in the plus? Of course, but there's just not many of them."

"If you make better choices, maybe you don't get that double or triple bogey. Maybe you get a bogey, maybe you get a par. Maybe you birdie it. These are all things that are possible you know when you're using something that helps you become more intelligent about the game."

Are you a watcher more than a listener? Then you can watch our video with Pete on The ModGolf YouTube channel as he walks us through a GolfLogix demo. Click on this link or the image below as Colin and Pete extend their podcast conversation with video demos and success stories.

Pete Charleston is an experienced entreprenuer with over a quarter century of golf startup reps under his belt. Want to connect with Pete? Check out his bio page to make that happen!

https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/pete-charleston

Download GolfLogix for free at https://www.golflogix.com/ or click on the image below. ModGolf doesn't benefit from your participation. We just like what Pete and his team have created with GolfLogix!

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: Pete Charleston - GolfLogix Co-Founder and President.

Increasing Your Odds For On-Course Swing Success - Matt Williams, Co-Founder of Noonan Caddie

The ModGolf Podcast — Mon, 26 May 2025 05:15:00 -0700

"We are the Ozempic for golf! I can shoot lower scores without changing my swing."

Do you struggle to make better on-course shot selection decisions that will result in less blowup holes and lower scores? Then the Noonan Caddie app is for you!

Noonan Caddie Co-Founder Matt Williams joins host Colin Weston to share his entrepreneurial insights as a multiple time founder in the golf entertainment and technology space.

Are you a watcher more than a listener? Then you can watch our video with Matt on The ModGolf YouTube channel as he walks us through a Noonan Caddie demo. Click on this link or the image below as Colin and Matt discuss positive tips and cautionary tales for new entrepreneurs embarking on their startup journey.

"Life is short. I’m committed to spending it doing what I love."

Matt Williams combines his passion for golf, technology, and entrepreneurship to build meaningful ventures that enhance the player and guest experience.

Matt is the co-founder and President of Noonan Caddie - an innovative app that turns your phone into a digital caddie. Noonan unlocks the scoring potential already inside you by making smarter decisions rather than grinding on frustrating swing overhauls.

Matt is an experienced entreprenuer and multiple time startup founder, including the creation of GolfTRK - Kansas City’s premier member-focused indoor golf facility. https://www.golftrk.com/

Download Noonan Caddie at https://www.noonan.ai/ or click on the image below for your seven day free trial. ModGolf doesn't benefit from your participation. We just like what Matt and his team have created with Noonan Caddie!

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: Matt Williams, Co-Founder of Noonan Caddie.

It's The Banter Not The Birdies That Matters Most - Don Rea, President of The PGA of America

The ModGolf Podcast — Fri, 02 May 2025 08:30:00 -0700

"Whether it's to get better at golf as a game or improve as an executive or you're somebody who wants dedicate their life to the industry and send their kids to college, you've got to surround yourself with people that are better than you are and that certainly has happened for me. A high tide raises all ships and it's elevated my ability to be a good provider for my family, but also feel fulfilled in a life that's dedicated to golf because I just dig it."

PGA of America President and Owner/Operator of Augusta Ranch Golf Club Don Rea joins host Colin Weston to share his 25 year journey advocating for the game and industry that he deeply loves.

"Some people say that they're professional golfers on The PGA Tour and we're golf professionals. There is no doubt the mission of the PGA of America is having 31,000 men and women out there every day trying to help people get it airborne. I believe we're the voice of the golfer in the game. There's 28.1 million out there playing. And who do they talk to? Well, they talk to our members. They talk to me. So we're their voice when it comes to any issues that might face golf. We're the first people they come to. We're the first responders of golf."

"The special thing about a college campus is that when you go there, there's a connection to that place. It always will be. And the alumni of that tell everybody why they should go to their college. We never had that. And that's what the new PGA of America headquarters is. It's not just a building. It's our home. There's two championship golf courses, a 10-hole lit golf course that's crazy busy every night, a two-acre putting green where little kids are running around in their bare feet with their big putters that are bigger than they are just putting around. For us, it's our why. There's a lot of relationships out there and ROIs of why you invest in something or partner with somebody. But for us, it's not about that. You need to know our why and why we exist. You can talk about a why, you can show it, you can see it, you can feel it and smell it. And that's what the home quarters of the PGA of America is."

"That's where the 31,000 members ensure that we do everything we can to leverage the assets of the PGA of America to tell the story of the PGA professional so that we're serving them. And in the end that's our mission. Serve the member and grow the game. It's just that simple."

PGA of America's New Headquarters Campus in Frisco Texas

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

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

Special Guest: Don Rea - President, PGA of America and Owner/Operator of Augusta Ranch Golf Course.

Masters Memories and Your Canadian Golf Course Bucket List - Adam Scully, Host and Producer of Golf Talk Canada

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 20:15:00 -0800

In this episode of ModGolf Live, host Colin Weston interviews Adam Scully, host and producer of Golf Talk Canada on TSN. Adam shares his journey in golf broadcasting, starting as an intern at TSN in 2011 and evolving into his current role. He discusses the show's growth from a regional radio program to a national multimedia platform covering professional golf, Canadian players, equipment reviews, and travel features. Adam details his first Masters experience in 2023, describing the unique atmosphere and course characteristics at Augusta National. The conversation also covers Canadian golf courses, with Adam highlighting top public venues around Toronto. The show concludes with discussion of Golf Talk Canada's future plans for 2025, including more on-course content and YouTube presence.

Chapters
02:05 Introduction and Show Background
Colin Weston introduces Adam Scully as the host and producer of Golf Talk Canada on TSN. The show covers PGA Tour events and broadcasts on both television and podcast formats.

08:41 Adam Scully's Career Journey
Adam details his progression from TSN intern in 2011 to his current role, including his transition to hosting during COVID-19. He describes how the show evolved from a 30-minute recap show to multiple hours of weekly content.

14:03 Masters Tournament Experience
Adam shares his first Masters experience in 2023, describing the unique aspects of Augusta National, including the strict no-phone policy and the distinctive white sand bunkers. He details the Monday practice round experience and the media lottery system.

27:08 Canadian Golf Course Recommendations for your next amazing golf trip
Adam highlights top public golf courses in the Toronto area, including Eagles Nest, TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley, Cobble Beach Resort, and Black Bear Ridge, providing detailed descriptions of each venue's unique characteristics. Colin also offers up his top golf course picks on the Canadian west coast to consider for your next golf vacation, ranging from world class courses around Vancouver, Whister, The Okanagan and Vancouver Island. You can check out Golf Talk Canada's list of "Top 50 Canadian Golf courses HERE.

33:17 Future Plans and Industry Trends
Adam discusses Golf Talk Canada's plans for 2025, including more on-course content and YouTube presence. He mentions the anticipated PGA Tour-LIV Golf merger and predicts a strong year for Rory McIlroy.

Action Items
31:38 Adam and team to continue coverage of the anticipated PGA Tour-LIV Golf merger developments
34:16 Adam plans to expand Golf Talk Canada's content with more on-course matches and YouTube presence in 2025
41:48 Colin Weston proposes future golf rounds with Adam either in Toronto or Vancouver

If you enjoyed this podcast episode, you can watch our video version on The ModGolf YouTube channel for our weekly ModGolf LIVE Show. Click on this link or the image below to watch our video.

If you would like to connect with Adam, visit his bio page for contact information. To learn more about Golf Talk Canada click on the image below to visit their website.

We want to thank our friends at Golf Genius Software for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast!

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

The Healing Power of Golf For Kids - Kevin Corn, PGA Golf Professional

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 11:45:00 -0700

"It's my favourite day of the week. Every Wednesday afternoon I go to the hospital and spend two hours, however long the kids want to hit golf balls and teach the kids of all abilities how they can play, how they can hit golf balls, regardless of their medical condition. All the children at Ranken Jordan are medically complex. So we'll have kids coming in that are in hospital beds and wheelchairs and walkers. They are on ventilators, they've got feeding tubes, a little bit of everything and regardless of what they're facing they hit golf balls."...Kevin Corn - PGA Head Golf Professional and Pediatric Hospital Golf Program Creator

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

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

"You'll see them literally laying down in bed on their sides swinging. We've had the kids with severe burns to hands and arms and all over the body that don't have fingers. They still swing on their own holding the golf club. It's a very, very powerful afternoon and no better way to spend a day off than in there with the kids hitting golf balls and teaching them and helping them get better through golf."

Click on the image below to watch our extended conversation with Kevin on our Youtube Channel!

"Care Beyond The Bedside is the healthcare model at Ranken Jordan. They want kids out of bed. About 80% of the time that the kids are awake are spent outside their rooms. So they're out playing video games, golf, basketball, out on the rock climbing wall, out on the field or doing their therapy. That's where the Care Beyond The Bedside comes in. When you watch it in action it is absolutely incredible. Miracles are happening there daily. To see that every time I go in there and to be a small part of it is mind-blowing."

Episode Chapters
[01:45] Kevin shares how he was introduced to golf by his dad at the age of five and his path to becoming a PGA Teaching Professional.
[03:30] We get an overview of the golf program Kevin has put in place at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital and why Wednesday is his favourite day of the week.
[05:00] The origin story behid the program's creation and where Kevin drew inspiration from.
[09:00] Kevin shares stories of how the golf program has positively impacted the lives of the kids and their families.
[14:10] We hear some heartfelt stories from the parent's perspective of how Kevin's work has helped change lives and provided hope.
[16:00] Ranken Jordan's "Care Beyond The Bedside" model that keeps kids active, engaged and out of their rooms.
[18:00] How the Ranken Jordan golf program could and should be implemented at the 300+ Pediatric Hospitals across the US and Canada.
[20:00] How Kevin spends a typical Wednesday with the kids at "Ranken Jordan National GC".
[24:10] We explore what the future holds for Kevin and the golf program at Ranken Jordan.

"I put out a simple ask on social media and the next thing you know is when I need $1,000 to buy something I receive $4,000. Everybody is only too happy to help where they can. There also are small groups that donate the proceeds from their events to our golf program at Ranken Jordan. It's amazing how powerful this game can be and the amount of good it can do for people in so many different ways that we never thought of. But now that we see that golf in a pediatric hospital is a really good idea it opens up our eyes to many other opportunities."

To learn more about the impact Kevin is making at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital, check out his weekly blog posts.

You can also connect with Kevin on his bio page.
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Big thanks to Golf Genius Software for supporting 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.

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We want to thank our new partner inrange® for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast!

inrange® is a radar-based ball-tracking company that enhances the driving range experience by offering the most engaging gameplay and precise ball-tracking on the market. From private clubs and standalone commercial ranges, to multi-storey “Big Box” entertainment venues and limited-flight ‘compact’ ranges, Inrange® creates unparalleled experiences for every type of player - and unleashes your business’ growth potential. They are also the only software in the world offering a bay vs bay link up feature - allowing large groups to play against one another in teams across the entire venue. To learn more check out www.inrangegolf.com.

Special Guest: Kevin Corn - PGA Head Golf Professional and Pediatric Hospital Golf Program Creator.

The Rise of Golf in Uganda - Isaiah Mwesige, CEO of AFRIYEA Golf Academy

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 12:30:00 -0700

"I was trying to use my real life experience and what I went through when I was younger. I used some strategies of being in the same position as all those kids who come from families who do not have access into the game of golf. I did some research and discovered that there was a need for a golf academy to create a pathway for these kids to learn and play the game."... Isaiah Mwesige, CEO of The AFRIYEA Golf Academy

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

"If we are to make a difference in our communities in Uganda we need to build something that is going to create opportunities for anyone to take up golf. No matter the background or gender of these individuals, everyone must be in position to have a chance because golf is still a game that is dominated by older men."

Click on the image below to watch our extended conversation with Isaiah on our Youtube Channel!

Episode Chapters
[02:50] Isaiah shares when he was first introduced to golf and the person who invited him.
[04:50] How Isaiah transitioned from caddying to playing at the Toro Club in western Uganda.
[06:00] The "AHA moment" that led to the creation of The AFRIYEA Golf Academy.
[08:20] The current state of golf in Uganda and how Isaiah is working to change it.
[10:50] Early days of The AFRIYEA Golf Academy and how they attracted kids to join the program.
[14:20] Growth of The AFRIYEA Golf Academy since launching in 2020.
[16:45] Fundraising, partnerships, donations and equipment needs to make the academy sustainable.
[18:40] How The AFRIYEA Golf Academy is scaling across Uganda and into other African countries.
[20:10] Outreach programs, demonstrations and clinics that introduce golf to rural communities.
[22:15] The future for Ugandan golf: more courses, elite level players and career opportunites.
[23:40] Success stories from The AFRIYEA Golf Academy.
[25:15] Isaiah's thoughts and hopes for the future of Ugandan golf in 5/10/20 years time.

To learn more about the impact Isaiah has made positively impacting the lives of Ungandan kids, check out the AFRIYEA Golf Academy website.

You can also connect with Isaiah on his bio page.

"I was trying to use my real life experience, what I went personally through. I used some strategies to see if I was in the same position as all those kids from families who can't have access into the game of golf. I discovered there was a need to create a golf academy, create a pathway for these kids to play the game of golf. So if we are to make a difference in our community in Uganda, we need something that is going to create opportunity for everyone to play the game of golf. No matter their background, no matter the gender of these individuals everyone must be in position to have an opportunity. However, with creating the AFRIYEA Golf Academy we have been able to change the status quo and make a difference. It's now not only just bringing the people on the golf course, but for us we believe we can be in position to take the game where people are instead of bringing people where golf is."

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We also want to thank Golf Genius Software for supporting 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.

Special Guest: Isaiah Mwesige, CEO of AFRIYEA Golf Academy.

You Are The CEO of Your Life - Claude Brousseau, Director of Player Development at Wailea Golf Academy

The ModGolf Podcast — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700

"I live by investing 86,400 seconds per day to obtain the highest ROI possible on fulfillment and mindfulness. My purpose in this life is to make a difference in other people's lives". Claude Brousseau, PGA Master Professional and Director of Player Development at The Wailea Golf Academy joins host Colin Weston for an inspirational 40 minutes of conversation.

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

"I can accomplish goals by avoiding negative thoughts. When things are not going well in golf or life, take the time to look at yourself in the mirror and say okay, you are the CEO of your life. You need to assume those responsibilities with the decision, and there is a price to be outside of your comfort zone, but that's where you realize your potential."

"I was able to go to the Dunhill tournaments and walk on both St. Andrews and Carnoustie the same day. So you can see why I'm so grateful and full of appreciation."

Click on the image below to watch our extended conversation with Claude on our Youtube Channel!

Episode Chapters
[02:30] Claude shares his first golf experience and the person who invited him to put a club in his hands.
[04:30] Claude discusses his days growing up in a small rural town in Quebec Canada and "First Life" as an ICU nurse in Florida.
[06:40] Claude's golf mini tour experience in Florida and how that lead to his teaching career.
[09:45] How Claude ended up in Maui and the supportive people who helped shape his approach to teaching.
[14:30] The lessons learned and experience acquired as a nurse that Claude applies to teaching his diverse group of students.
[16:50] Claude to elaborates on his approach to spending the 86,400 seconds that each day gifts us.
[19:30] We learn about a "Day in The Life" of Claude Brousseau.
[27:00] Claude talks about the influence that mentors such as business tycoon Anthony von Mandl have on his outlook on life.
[30:00] "Learn to listen, as opportunity sometimes knocks very softly"... Jackson Brown
[22:15] Claude's teaching philosophy and approach to golf learning, training and improvement.
[36:30] We learn what a personal teaching experience with Claude would look like.

To learn more about the impact Claude has made in 25+ years of teaching, check out the "Claude 4 Best Golf website.

You can also connect with Claude on his bio page.

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We want to thank our sponsor partner Golf Genius Software for helping support The ModGolf Podcast

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.

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If you love golf, we have exclusive deals on golf gear and services that we use and support! We launched The ModGolf Pro Shop to offer you - our ModGolfers - 10-20% OFF exclusive discounts using promo code MODGOLF. We have curated a diverse selection of awesome brands like KINONA, deWiz Golf, ODIN Golf, Back2Basics Golf, Deuce and Project72Golf to help you play better and look great while doing it. CLICK TO SHOP AND SAVE.

Combining His Love of Golf and Entrepreneurship - Markus Westerberg, Co-Founder of deWiz

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 10:30:00 -0700

"I can only do so much and I am happy to let in anyone who can help us and who knows their area of expertise better than me. There's no ego motivation here. We just want to help golfers get better, grow the company and reach out to more golfers. We have the love of the game and that's our driving force. I think that's a strength that we have, the strength to know what we don't know and not have the vanity of trying to show something else." - deWiz Co-Founder Markus Westerberg
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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

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"I started that round with an incredible start and have learned through experience not to then play conservatively in order to protect a good score. Hitting "pause" and trying to get off the golf course by making pars is the wrong mindset. If you do that you are sure to make bogeys so I knew I had to push myself. So I kept pushing and pushing into that "Zone of Discomfort", didn't bail on myself throughout the round and gave myself a chance to shoot 59 with a putt on 18. I'm really proud of that round as it was a magically exhilarating experience."

Click on the image below to watch our extended conversation with Markus on our Youtube Channel!

"We launched about a year ago and today and we are now 14 employees in the company. I'm not saying that we built deWiz all by ourselves. We are team players. I know some things and I don't know a lot of other things". I know golf and I've learned a lot about tech. I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology, which ties in very good to deWiz."

You can also connect with Markus on his bio page, along with checking out the deWiz website.

"Golf is an individual sport but no single tour golfer is out there alone. There is a family behind them, friends, a manager and multiple coaches that make up the team. So to suceed, you have to be able to handle your team regarding the physical, mental, financial and logistical challenges that arise. Golf is a brutal game and it's a game about managing mistakes. Looking at a professional golf career, you have more failures than successes and that gives you a thick skin that builds up your resilience. Golf gives you a North Star to define what success means to you and to appreciate the journey. You have to truly love the game, whether it's the game of entrepreneurship or the game of golf. And when you do that, I believe you will end up in good places."

Special Guest: Markus Westerberg, Co-Founder of deWiz.

Building a Scalable Business That Introduces 1,000,000 New Golfers to The Game - Matt Reagan, Co-Founder at Operation 36 Golf

The ModGolf Podcast — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 14:00:00 -0700

Getting good at golf is hard. Figuring out how to make it fun and engaging for kids is even harder. As Matt Reagan and his Operation 36 Co-Founder Ryan Dailey looked to solve this problem over 12 years ago, they saw how other sports - especially martial arts like Taekwondo and Karate - would progress through levels of mastery by testing students once they had acquired the necessary skills. The result was creating a 10 Division, variable distance gameplay format where students need to shoot 36 over nine holes in order to graduate up to the next level. Listen in as Matt shares the startup journey of Operation 36 Golf.
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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

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"We got three kids to sign up and join the program and that was how the concept started. And then we'd say "oh crap, what do we do with them every week? How do we show they're improving, what do we teach? How should we be testing them and show parents they're getting better? How do we make it fun every step of the way?"

"The first five years of our existence we worked on building the program and trying to figure that out. We'd sit down before class, plan for an hour and a half and then kids would show up. We'd run it and say "well that sucked, let's try it again!" and then we would experiment with different ideas. So we had this pretty cool environment where we were just testing group programming with kids and trying to figure out what works to make it fun, but also make sure they are getting better and turning into golfers. And then showing parents, who are the ones signing the kids up for the program, that this is working."

Want to learn more about Matt and Operation 36 Golf? Visit their website to learn how they are creating effective developmental programs and technology to introduce and guide anyone in playing the game of golf.

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

You can also connect with Matt on his bio page.

Operation 36 takes the traditional model and flips it on its head. All new players begin on the course. Instead of starting at the tee box, they play from 25 yards away from the hole. Once the player shoots par (36) from 25 yards, they back up to 50 yards, and so on, until they are shooting even par (36) from the full tee box. It’s timely, it’s fun, and it provides step by step improvement.

Special Guest: Matt Reagan, Co-Founder at Operation 36 Golf.

Embracing A “Give First” Attitude To Build A Successful Business - Matt Fisher, The Mr. Short Game YouTube channel

The ModGolf Podcast — Tue, 17 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0700

"There was a point where I had to turn down freelance jobs. My last job was with Disney where I was making YouTube videos and that's when I realized this is what I need to be doing when I'm not working. About a year and a half later I'm at a point where I was thinking I need to let the other work go so I can this can grow. That was really tough because financially we were scraping by. Finally my YouTube channel was right on the cusp and I told my wife Jenny "here's the numbers showing where it's gone the last couple of months. If I let go of all my freelance work this could really take off". So that was a scary point but I had to go for it."

Golf YouTuber Matt Fisher, creator of Mr. Short Game

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

Looking to improve your game around the green? Check out Matt's Mr. Short Game YouTube channel to experience his unfiltered energy and helpful tips.

You can learn more about Matt on his bio page.

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

Show Notes and Matt Quotes
"My approach to video creation has three components: I want to give something for free, whether it be a tip or a drill. I want it to be entertaining because I hate to be bored. Lastly I want people to connect and get to know me so we can build a community together."

"I'm not not going to mention somebody just because they don't pay me. I'll showcase good people and products all the time. Something I've learned along the way is just be giving first. Do expect or try to get stuff because the right things will come along. The universe has a way of giving back if you're a giving person. But if you're greedy or stingy, forget it. Nothing good is going to happen"

"I had to do stuff at my house and put a big net in my backyard. I just did what I had to do, which is the entrepreneurial mindset. I had no money and had sold all my camera equipment and was shooting videos on my iPhone. I'm in my yard, it's LA in the valley, 100 degrees outside and my phone is overheating so much that I had to put it in the freezer every 20 minutes, come back and finish the shot. That's how I started so I know what it takes to grind it out. Believe me, I want to be best golf YouTuber out there but I'm not going to build it at all costs. That's not part of the equation. What is part of the equation is how many friends and positive community can we build along the way."

Special Guest: Matt Fisher, Creator of The Mr. Short Game YouTube channel.

Teaching Golf To Welcome, Elevate and Empower Diverse Communities - Shayain Gustavsp (076)

The ModGolf Podcast — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 09:00:00 -0700

Our host Colin Weston sits down for an engaging conversation with Shayain Gustavsp, Founder & CEO of SJG International and LPGA Certified Golf Coach. With over ten years of experience in the sports industry, Shayain specializes in corporate sponsorship, premium hospitality, customer retentions and event planning.

Shayain is an LPGA Certified Teacher with a passion for creating a safe and welcoming space for all to learn the game of golf. During her time in the corporate world Shayain recognized her ability to play golf and do business on the course was instrumental in fast tracking her career. Her motivation now lies in helping a diverse spectrum of women do the same.

Shayain also runs her own consultancy, SJG International, which services Fortune 500 companies, professional sports teams and the entertainment industry. It's services include, VIP Events, Premium Sales and Service, Customer Retention and Corporate Partnership.

Check out and subscribe to Shayain’s YouTube Channel for her fun and informative take on golf, health and business. You can also follow Shayain on Instagram.

Special Guest: Shayain Gustavsp - Entrepreneur / LPGA Certified Coach.

Michael Breed - Embracing Resilience and Gratitude to Shape His Approach to Golf and Life (046)

The ModGolf Podcast — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 12:45:00 -0700

Host Colin Weston speaks with Michael Breed, star of SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio's "A New Breed of Golf", along with being Golf Digest’s Chief Digital Instructor. Michael tirelessly tours the continent as an inspirational golf instruction keynote speaker and is an entrepreneur and innovator in the truest sense of those words.

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

You can learn more about Michael on his bio page.

We want to thank our sponsor partner Golf Genius Software for helping support The ModGolf Podcast

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.

Michael’s story of transforming personal hurdles like Dyslexia and sport injuries into the superpowers that define him is truly inspirational. His genuine desire to embrace his shortcomings while demonstrating gratitude, patience, resilience and curiosity has helped pave the path for his entrepreneurial journey.

As promised, here are the links to the work from two of Michael's inspirational mentors and heroes: John Maxwell and Nick Vujicic.

John Maxwell's book “Thinking For A Change”

Nick Vujicic's YouTube video: "No Arms, No Legs, No Worries"

Special Guest: Michael Breed - Host of "A New Breed of Golf" on SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio.

BONUS: Season One Wrap Up / Season Two Preview

The ModGolf Podcast — Fri, 08 Sep 2017 15:30:00 -0700

After taking off the month of August to recharge our batteries and develop our second season, we're excited to back in mid September with a new round of compelling stories and inspirational interviews from our guests.

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