app02 Mon, 19 Oct 2026 02:41:40 +0000 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) The ModGolf Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Golf Simulator” https://modgolf.fireside.fm/tags/golf%20simulator Thu, 08 Oct 2026 15:15:00 -0700 The ModGolf Podcast talks with golf's top influencers, entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors about their vision and ventures that are re-imagining, transforming and growing both the game and $250 billion/year global industry. The ModGolf Podcast has been ranked #4 on 2025 most comprehensive list of Top 25 Golf Podcasts, based on our quality and consistency of posts, industry expert reviews and social media influence/popularity. Please subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast to help us grow and move up the rankings in 2026! We'd love to hear from you! Have any ideas or guests you'd like to hear on future episodes? Contact Colin directly here (https://modgolf.fireside.fm/contact) or on Instagram @modgolfpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/modgolfpodcast/) to start the conversation. en-us episodic Host Colin Weston explores the future of golf through conversations with the entrepreneurs, visionaries and influencers who are shaking up the sport. ModSport Media Inc. The ModGolf Podcast talks with golf's top influencers, entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors about their vision and ventures that are re-imagining, transforming and growing both the game and $250 billion/year global industry. The ModGolf Podcast has been ranked #4 on 2025 most comprehensive list of Top 25 Golf Podcasts, based on our quality and consistency of posts, industry expert reviews and social media influence/popularity. Please subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast to help us grow and move up the rankings in 2026! We'd love to hear from you! Have any ideas or guests you'd like to hear on future episodes? Contact Colin directly here (https://modgolf.fireside.fm/contact) or on Instagram @modgolfpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/modgolfpodcast/) to start the conversation. no golf, golf podcast, ModGolf, ModGolf Podcast, sport tech, golf improvement, golf equipment, sport business, golf innovation, golf entertainment, YouTube golf, entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship, golf influencers, women in golf, diversity and inclusion ModSport Media Inc. colin@modgolfpodcast.com Building a Year-Round Revenue Engine With "The Nest" - Kyle Holmes, GM & Managing Partner of Quail Ridge GC https://modgolf.fireside.fm/230-kyle-holmes 9c4117dd-d7f4-42fe-b578-e4aeb288ee4d Thu, 08 Oct 2026 15:15:00 -0700 ModSport Media Inc. full 20 ModSport Media Inc. What if your business could generate revenue twelve months a year instead of just seven? ModGolf Podcast host Colin Weston sits down with Kyle Holmes, General Manager and Managing Partner of Quail Ridge Golf Course in Ada, Michigan, to explore how he and his business partner built The Nest - an eight-bay indoor/outdoor golf simulator facility with dual-mode bays that's keeping golfers playing (and paying) all winter long. Discover how this innovative golf entrepreneur turned a four-month off-season revenue gap into a year-round business opportunity while building community, breaking down barriers for beginner golfers, and scaling his vision for the future of public golf. 40:14 no <h3><strong>What if the future of golf wasn't on a golf course at all?</strong></h3> <p>In Michigan, golf courses close mid-November and don't reopen until the end ofMarch. That's over four months of bills with zero revenue - the brutal reality for every northern golf course operator. But instead of accepting this cycle, Kyle Holmes and his business partner Tim asked a different question: <em>What if we could keep people playing, and paying, all winter long?</em></p> <p>The answer became <strong>The Nest</strong> - an eight-bay indoor/outdoor golf facility that Kyle believes is the first of its kind in Michigan, possibly the entire country. What makes it unique? "Dual-mode" bays that let you hit down the range on TrackMan 4 technology with the garage door open in July, or into an impact screen in January without ever moving from your spot.</p> <p>In this episode, Colin sits down with Kyle Holmes, General Manager and Managing Partner of Quail Ridge Golf Course in Ada, Michigan. Kyle shares his journey from employee to owner, the power of a complementary business partnership, and how he's betting big on the explosive growth of indoor golf - where more rounds were played than outdoors for the first time in 2025.</p> <p>Whether you're a golf course operator looking for new revenue streams, an entrepreneur curious about turning a vision into reality, or simply someone who loves hearing about innovation in unexpected places, this episode will inspire you to think differently about what's possible.</p> <p><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/Co_ZmJDE.jpg" alt=""></p> <hr> <h3><strong>3 Key Takeaways you'll discover:</strong></h3> <p><strong>1. The Dual-Mode Bay: A Genuine Industry Differentiator</strong><br> Most facilities force you to choose: hit outdoors at a range OR play indoors on a simulator. The Nest eliminates that choice entirely. With garage doors that open to a 375-yard range on one side and impact screens for virtual play on the other, golfers never have to move bays to switch between experiences. Kyle explains how this seemingly simple design decision creates a completely unique customer experience that competitors will be challenged to replicate.</p> <p><strong>2. Segmenting Your Customer Base to Maximize Revenue</strong><br> Kyle reveals his strategic approach to filling The Nest's eight bays by identifying distinct customer segments that don't compete for the same time slots - early morning "grinders" who want to dial in their swing before work, college and high school teams on weekend mornings, league play during weekday evenings, and groups of friends gathering around big games on Friday and Saturday nights. It's the same segmentation philosophy that has kept Quail Ridge's tee sheet full for almost three decades.</p> <p><strong>3. Building a Year-Round Business Without Cannibalizing Your Core Product</strong><br> The Nest wasn't designed to replace the golf course - it was built to complement it. Kyle explains how indoor golf becomes an onboarding tool for beginners who feel intimidated by the traditional course experience, a winter training facility for serious players, and a community gathering space that keeps Quail Ridge top-of-mind even when the course is covered in snow.</p> <hr> <p>Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Meghann on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/THsEcC4B8Fo" rel="nofollow noopener">The ModGolf YouTube channel</a></strong>. Click on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/THsEcC4B8Fo" rel="nofollow noopener">this link</a></strong> or the image below to watch.</p> <p><a href="https://youtu.be/THsEcC4B8Fo" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/kw-K-uwv.jpg" alt=""></a> </p> <hr> <h3>💬 <strong>3 Inspiring Quotes from Kyle Holmes</strong></h3> <blockquote> <p><strong>"I don't pretend to be the smartest person in the room at every moment because if we're talking about something that's not 'how do you make this business grow faster?' or 'how do you fix somebody's slice?' - there's somebody else in the room that has a better answer. And I love to hear from them."</strong></p> <p><strong>"We want people to feel like they're home when they come to Quail Ridge because everybody loves to come home. You can have a great golf course and a bad experience, and you're going to remember the bad experience, not the great golf course."</strong></p> <p><strong>"Once people cross that threshold - where they whiff three or four times, then make contact, then the ball's airborne, then it's going 75 yards - are they ever not going to play golf again? Absolutely! It's such an empowering moment."</strong></p> <hr> </blockquote> <h3>Episode Chapters</h3> <p><strong>00:00</strong> Welcome to ModGolf: Meet Kyle Holmes, the "boots on the ground" entrepreneur<br> <strong>01:35</strong> Kyle's first golf experience: Grandfather, father, and a club in hand at age two<br> <strong>03:38</strong> The history of Quail Ridge: Built and opened during the Tiger Boom in 1998<br> <strong>05:45</strong> From employee to owner: The journey of acquiring Quail Ridge with business partner Tim<br> <strong>08:09</strong> The power of complementary partnerships: Kyle's business brain meets Tim's 30 years of turf expertise<br> <strong>10:33</strong> "I'm a lifelong learner": How Kyle asks questions instead of pretending to know everything<br> <strong>12:30</strong> Introducing The Nest: Eight dual-mode indoor/outdoor simulator bays<br> <strong>13:36</strong> What makes dual-mode bays different: No need to move between indoor and outdoor experiences<br> <strong>15:52</strong> The problem: Michigan golf courses close for four months and the bills don't stop<br> <strong>17:30</strong> From idea to reality: Clearing trees, running internet to the maintenance barn, and betting on indoor golf<br> <strong>19:20</strong> The customer mix: Grinders, leagues, date nights, college teams, and NFL Sundays<br> <strong>22:52</strong> Quail Ridge's business model: Public course with just 35-40 members and 45,000 rounds in 2025<br> <strong>26:13</strong> Location advantage: 1.5 million people in Metro Grand Rapids with only four high-tier public courses<br> <strong>28:25</strong> Marketing The Nest: Why "simulator golf" isn't enough and explaining dual-mode to the masses<br> <strong>30:02</strong> The women's clinic phenomenon: Sell-outs in hours and the power of a judgment-free environment<br> <strong>34:32</strong> Breaking down barriers: Pace of play, etiquette, and making golf less intimidating<br> <strong>37:14</strong> The "welcome home" philosophy: Why experience matters as much as course conditions<br> <strong>37:58</strong> Scaling the vision: Kyle's plans to acquire more courses and apply the formula<br> <strong>39:45</strong> What's next: The design and construction journey of The Nest on The ModGolf YouTube channel</p> <hr> <p>We want to thank <strong>Big Swing Media</strong> for presenting this episode and supporting Season 20 of The ModGolf Podcast!<br> <a href="https://www.BigSwingMedia.news" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/6EOfEqoG.jpg" alt=""></a><br> Anyone can tell you what happened in golf. <strong>The Big Swing Golf Business Intelligence Brief</strong> tells you why it matters, and what’s coming next. Twice a week, Big Swing delivers original reporting and expert analysis of the money, trends, technology and personalities reshaping the game. It’s essential reading for anyone who works in, invests in or cares about the future of golf. ModGolf listeners receive a special first-year rate with code <strong>MODGOLF26</strong>. Visit <a href="https://www.BigSwingMedia.news" rel="nofollow noopener">BigSwingMedia.news</a> to subscribe.</p> <hr> <p><strong>About The ModGolf Podcast:</strong> Host Colin Weston speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of the game and business of golf. Now in Season 20 with nearly 300 episodes produced since 2017.</p> <h3><strong>Join the ModGolf Community</strong></h3> <p><strong>Subscribe</strong> to The ModGolf Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen in.<br> <strong>Become a ModGolf Patron to help support golf entrepreneurship!</strong><br> Join our ModGolf Patreon community at <a href="https://patreon.com/ModGolf" rel="nofollow noopener">patreon.com/ModGolf</a> for exclusive content and entry in our ModGolf Giveaway contests.</p> <hr> <h3><strong>🔗 Connect with Quail Ridge GC and The Nest:</strong></h3> <p><a href="https://quailridgegc.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">quailridgegc.com</a><br> <strong>Location:</strong> Ada, Michigan (12 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids)<br> <a href="https://quailridgegc.com/" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/KQg3DfAJ.jpg" alt=""></a></p><p>Special Guest: Kyle Holmes, GM &amp; Managing Partner of Quail Ridge GC.</p> golf podcast, golf business, golf course ownership, indoor golf, golf simulator, TrackMan, Quail Ridge Golf Course, The Nest, dual-mode bays, golf entrepreneurship, golf course management, PGA professional, golf innovation, winter golf, golf revenue streams, golf course acquisition, Grand Rapids golf, Michigan golf, ModGolf, Colin Weston, Kyle Holmes, golf technology, golf entertainment, simulator golf, indoor golf facility, golf industry trends, golf course operations, golf league play, golf instruction, club fitting What if the future of golf wasn't on a golf course at all?

In Michigan, golf courses close mid-November and don't reopen until the end ofMarch. That's over four months of bills with zero revenue - the brutal reality for every northern golf course operator. But instead of accepting this cycle, Kyle Holmes and his business partner Tim asked a different question: What if we could keep people playing, and paying, all winter long?

The answer became The Nest - an eight-bay indoor/outdoor golf facility that Kyle believes is the first of its kind in Michigan, possibly the entire country. What makes it unique? "Dual-mode" bays that let you hit down the range on TrackMan 4 technology with the garage door open in July, or into an impact screen in January without ever moving from your spot.

In this episode, Colin sits down with Kyle Holmes, General Manager and Managing Partner of Quail Ridge Golf Course in Ada, Michigan. Kyle shares his journey from employee to owner, the power of a complementary business partnership, and how he's betting big on the explosive growth of indoor golf - where more rounds were played than outdoors for the first time in 2025.

Whether you're a golf course operator looking for new revenue streams, an entrepreneur curious about turning a vision into reality, or simply someone who loves hearing about innovation in unexpected places, this episode will inspire you to think differently about what's possible.

3 Key Takeaways you'll discover:

1. The Dual-Mode Bay: A Genuine Industry Differentiator
Most facilities force you to choose: hit outdoors at a range OR play indoors on a simulator. The Nest eliminates that choice entirely. With garage doors that open to a 375-yard range on one side and impact screens for virtual play on the other, golfers never have to move bays to switch between experiences. Kyle explains how this seemingly simple design decision creates a completely unique customer experience that competitors will be challenged to replicate.

2. Segmenting Your Customer Base to Maximize Revenue
Kyle reveals his strategic approach to filling The Nest's eight bays by identifying distinct customer segments that don't compete for the same time slots - early morning "grinders" who want to dial in their swing before work, college and high school teams on weekend mornings, league play during weekday evenings, and groups of friends gathering around big games on Friday and Saturday nights. It's the same segmentation philosophy that has kept Quail Ridge's tee sheet full for almost three decades.

3. Building a Year-Round Business Without Cannibalizing Your Core Product
The Nest wasn't designed to replace the golf course - it was built to complement it. Kyle explains how indoor golf becomes an onboarding tool for beginners who feel intimidated by the traditional course experience, a winter training facility for serious players, and a community gathering space that keeps Quail Ridge top-of-mind even when the course is covered in snow.

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

💬 3 Inspiring Quotes from Kyle Holmes

"I don't pretend to be the smartest person in the room at every moment because if we're talking about something that's not 'how do you make this business grow faster?' or 'how do you fix somebody's slice?' - there's somebody else in the room that has a better answer. And I love to hear from them."

"We want people to feel like they're home when they come to Quail Ridge because everybody loves to come home. You can have a great golf course and a bad experience, and you're going to remember the bad experience, not the great golf course."

"Once people cross that threshold - where they whiff three or four times, then make contact, then the ball's airborne, then it's going 75 yards - are they ever not going to play golf again? Absolutely! It's such an empowering moment."

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome to ModGolf: Meet Kyle Holmes, the "boots on the ground" entrepreneur
01:35 Kyle's first golf experience: Grandfather, father, and a club in hand at age two
03:38 The history of Quail Ridge: Built and opened during the Tiger Boom in 1998
05:45 From employee to owner: The journey of acquiring Quail Ridge with business partner Tim
08:09 The power of complementary partnerships: Kyle's business brain meets Tim's 30 years of turf expertise
10:33 "I'm a lifelong learner": How Kyle asks questions instead of pretending to know everything
12:30 Introducing The Nest: Eight dual-mode indoor/outdoor simulator bays
13:36 What makes dual-mode bays different: No need to move between indoor and outdoor experiences
15:52 The problem: Michigan golf courses close for four months and the bills don't stop
17:30 From idea to reality: Clearing trees, running internet to the maintenance barn, and betting on indoor golf
19:20 The customer mix: Grinders, leagues, date nights, college teams, and NFL Sundays
22:52 Quail Ridge's business model: Public course with just 35-40 members and 45,000 rounds in 2025
26:13 Location advantage: 1.5 million people in Metro Grand Rapids with only four high-tier public courses
28:25 Marketing The Nest: Why "simulator golf" isn't enough and explaining dual-mode to the masses
30:02 The women's clinic phenomenon: Sell-outs in hours and the power of a judgment-free environment
34:32 Breaking down barriers: Pace of play, etiquette, and making golf less intimidating
37:14 The "welcome home" philosophy: Why experience matters as much as course conditions
37:58 Scaling the vision: Kyle's plans to acquire more courses and apply the formula
39:45 What's next: The design and construction journey of The Nest on The ModGolf YouTube channel

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

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

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

Join the ModGolf Community

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

🔗 Connect with Quail Ridge GC and The Nest:

quailridgegc.com
Location: Ada, Michigan (12 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids)

Special Guest: Kyle Holmes, GM & Managing Partner of Quail Ridge GC.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> What if the future of golf wasn't on a golf course at all?

In Michigan, golf courses close mid-November and don't reopen until the end ofMarch. That's over four months of bills with zero revenue - the brutal reality for every northern golf course operator. But instead of accepting this cycle, Kyle Holmes and his business partner Tim asked a different question: What if we could keep people playing, and paying, all winter long?

The answer became The Nest - an eight-bay indoor/outdoor golf facility that Kyle believes is the first of its kind in Michigan, possibly the entire country. What makes it unique? "Dual-mode" bays that let you hit down the range on TrackMan 4 technology with the garage door open in July, or into an impact screen in January without ever moving from your spot.

In this episode, Colin sits down with Kyle Holmes, General Manager and Managing Partner of Quail Ridge Golf Course in Ada, Michigan. Kyle shares his journey from employee to owner, the power of a complementary business partnership, and how he's betting big on the explosive growth of indoor golf - where more rounds were played than outdoors for the first time in 2025.

Whether you're a golf course operator looking for new revenue streams, an entrepreneur curious about turning a vision into reality, or simply someone who loves hearing about innovation in unexpected places, this episode will inspire you to think differently about what's possible.

3 Key Takeaways you'll discover:

1. The Dual-Mode Bay: A Genuine Industry Differentiator
Most facilities force you to choose: hit outdoors at a range OR play indoors on a simulator. The Nest eliminates that choice entirely. With garage doors that open to a 375-yard range on one side and impact screens for virtual play on the other, golfers never have to move bays to switch between experiences. Kyle explains how this seemingly simple design decision creates a completely unique customer experience that competitors will be challenged to replicate.

2. Segmenting Your Customer Base to Maximize Revenue
Kyle reveals his strategic approach to filling The Nest's eight bays by identifying distinct customer segments that don't compete for the same time slots - early morning "grinders" who want to dial in their swing before work, college and high school teams on weekend mornings, league play during weekday evenings, and groups of friends gathering around big games on Friday and Saturday nights. It's the same segmentation philosophy that has kept Quail Ridge's tee sheet full for almost three decades.

3. Building a Year-Round Business Without Cannibalizing Your Core Product
The Nest wasn't designed to replace the golf course - it was built to complement it. Kyle explains how indoor golf becomes an onboarding tool for beginners who feel intimidated by the traditional course experience, a winter training facility for serious players, and a community gathering space that keeps Quail Ridge top-of-mind even when the course is covered in snow.

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

💬 3 Inspiring Quotes from Kyle Holmes

"I don't pretend to be the smartest person in the room at every moment because if we're talking about something that's not 'how do you make this business grow faster?' or 'how do you fix somebody's slice?' - there's somebody else in the room that has a better answer. And I love to hear from them."

"We want people to feel like they're home when they come to Quail Ridge because everybody loves to come home. You can have a great golf course and a bad experience, and you're going to remember the bad experience, not the great golf course."

"Once people cross that threshold - where they whiff three or four times, then make contact, then the ball's airborne, then it's going 75 yards - are they ever not going to play golf again? Absolutely! It's such an empowering moment."

Episode Chapters

00:00 Welcome to ModGolf: Meet Kyle Holmes, the "boots on the ground" entrepreneur
01:35 Kyle's first golf experience: Grandfather, father, and a club in hand at age two
03:38 The history of Quail Ridge: Built and opened during the Tiger Boom in 1998
05:45 From employee to owner: The journey of acquiring Quail Ridge with business partner Tim
08:09 The power of complementary partnerships: Kyle's business brain meets Tim's 30 years of turf expertise
10:33 "I'm a lifelong learner": How Kyle asks questions instead of pretending to know everything
12:30 Introducing The Nest: Eight dual-mode indoor/outdoor simulator bays
13:36 What makes dual-mode bays different: No need to move between indoor and outdoor experiences
15:52 The problem: Michigan golf courses close for four months and the bills don't stop
17:30 From idea to reality: Clearing trees, running internet to the maintenance barn, and betting on indoor golf
19:20 The customer mix: Grinders, leagues, date nights, college teams, and NFL Sundays
22:52 Quail Ridge's business model: Public course with just 35-40 members and 45,000 rounds in 2025
26:13 Location advantage: 1.5 million people in Metro Grand Rapids with only four high-tier public courses
28:25 Marketing The Nest: Why "simulator golf" isn't enough and explaining dual-mode to the masses
30:02 The women's clinic phenomenon: Sell-outs in hours and the power of a judgment-free environment
34:32 Breaking down barriers: Pace of play, etiquette, and making golf less intimidating
37:14 The "welcome home" philosophy: Why experience matters as much as course conditions
37:58 Scaling the vision: Kyle's plans to acquire more courses and apply the formula
39:45 What's next: The design and construction journey of The Nest on The ModGolf YouTube channel

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

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

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

Join the ModGolf Community

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

🔗 Connect with Quail Ridge GC and The Nest:

quailridgegc.com
Location: Ada, Michigan (12 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids)

Special Guest: Kyle Holmes, GM & Managing Partner of Quail Ridge GC.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> The 4 1/4" Question: Why is a Golf Hole That Size? https://modgolf.fireside.fm/the-4-1-4-question a73688e5-0c0a-45eb-b955-38d532646884 Tue, 28 Jul 2026 11:15:00 -0700 ModSport Media Inc. bonus ModSport Media Inc. What if the most sacred standard in golf - the size of the hole - wasn't the result of careful design, but instead was formed by a found object in a Scottish golf maintenance shed? In this bonus episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston uncovers the accidental 1824 origin story behind golf's most overlooked rule, explores why the R&A and USGA have fiercely defended it for over 135 years, and examines how today's golf business innovators are challenging tradition with bigger cups, simulator golf, and "fun-first" formats that could reshape the game's future. 10:36 no <p><strong>Have you ever stood over a three-foot putt, heart pounding, and wondered why that tiny target is exactly 4.25 inches wide?</strong><br> It's a number every golfer knows but almost nobody questions. In this bonus episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston takes you on a fascinating journey through Scottish golf innovation, 67 years of golfing chaos, and a decision in 1891 that shaped the game forever. Discover how a random piece of drainpipe from a maintenance shed became golf's most enduring standard - and why, in an era of innovation and "fun-first" golf, that 135-year-old measurement might finally be facing its biggest challenge yet.</p> <hr> <h3>What You'll Discover in This Episode</h3> <p><strong>The Drainpipe Origin Story</strong> - Meet Robert Gray, the Royal Musselburgh Golf Club employee who solved golf's "wild west" of inconsistent hole sizes by grabbing a piece of standard plumbing from a maintenance shed in 1824. The 4.25" diameter wasn't chosen for any strategic reason - it was literally whatever the local hardware store carried.</p> <p><strong>Why It Took 67 Years to Become Official</strong> - Despite Gray's brilliant invention, courses across Scotland continued doing their own thing for nearly seven decades. Learn why the R&amp;A finally stepped in to standardize the game's most crucial piece of real estate - and why they simply shrugged and said "that'll do."</p> <p><strong>The Future of the Hole</strong> - From 15-inch "fun" holes and dual-flagstick courses to virtual simulators where cup size changes with a click, discover how the concept of "holing out" is evolving. Will the traditional 4.25" survive as golf pushes to be faster, more accessible, and more entertaining?</p> <hr> <h3>Episode Chapters</h3> <p><strong>0:00 - 1:30 | INTRO</strong> The sound that defines golf and the question nobody asks<br> <strong>1:30 - 4:00 | THE MYSTERY OF THE STANDARD</strong> From chaotic Scottish links to Robert Gray's drainpipe solution<br> <strong>4:00 - 6:30 | THE R&amp;A MAKES IT OFFICIAL</strong> Why 1891 changed everything and why precision matters<br> <strong>6:30 - 7:30 | DEFENDING THE STANDARD</strong> The sacred reverence for 4.25" and why change has been rejected<br> <strong>7:30 - 9:00 | THE FUTURE OF THE HOLE</strong> Innovation meets tradition: where the game is heading<br> <strong>9:00 - 10:07 | OUTRO</strong> Reflections on accidental standards</p> <hr> <h3>Links &amp; Resources Mentioned</h3> <p><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/Y_ikD1OY.jpeg" alt=""></p> <blockquote> <blockquote> <blockquote> <blockquote> <blockquote> <p><strong>Robert Gray's original 1829 hole-cutter design</strong></p> </blockquote> </blockquote> </blockquote> </blockquote> </blockquote> <p><a href="https://modgolf.fireside.fm/167-bucket-golf" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/QV5dd0qd.jpg" alt=""></a></p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Click the image above to listen to the Bucket Golf episode of The ModGolf Podcast</strong> </p> </blockquote> <hr> <h3><strong>🎧 Subscribe &amp; Review:</strong></h3> <p><em>If you enjoyed this deep dive, please consider following, rating, and reviewing <strong>The ModGolf Podcast on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-modgolf-podcast/id1230363725" rel="nofollow noopener">Apple Podcasts</a></strong> as it helps us reach new listeners and attract more incredible guests!</em></p> <p>Connect with Colin @modgolfpodcast to DM him on Instagram</p> <p>Join our Patreon community at <strong><a href="http://www.patreon.com/modgolf" rel="nofollow noopener">www.patreon.com/modgolf</a></strong> for exclusive live shows, bonus content, and member-only giveaways.<strong><a href="https://patreon.com/modgolf" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a></strong> to support The ModGolf Podcast.</p> <hr> <p>We want to thank <strong>Golf Genius Software</strong> for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast!<br> Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience?<br> <a href="https://www.golfgenius.com" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/K9NPjjAv.jpg" alt=""></a><br> <strong>Golf Genius</strong> 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 <a href="https://www.golfgenius.com" rel="nofollow noopener">golfgenius.com</a>.</p> modgolf podcast, golf history, golf facts, golf hole size, inrange, Trackman, Neighborhood National, golf simulator, virtual golf, launch monitor, golf entertainment, golf entrepreneur, golf industry, golf business, modgolf, entrepreneurship Have you ever stood over a three-foot putt, heart pounding, and wondered why that tiny target is exactly 4.25 inches wide?
It's a number every golfer knows but almost nobody questions. In this bonus episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston takes you on a fascinating journey through Scottish golf innovation, 67 years of golfing chaos, and a decision in 1891 that shaped the game forever. Discover how a random piece of drainpipe from a maintenance shed became golf's most enduring standard - and why, in an era of innovation and "fun-first" golf, that 135-year-old measurement might finally be facing its biggest challenge yet.

What You'll Discover in This Episode

The Drainpipe Origin Story - Meet Robert Gray, the Royal Musselburgh Golf Club employee who solved golf's "wild west" of inconsistent hole sizes by grabbing a piece of standard plumbing from a maintenance shed in 1824. The 4.25" diameter wasn't chosen for any strategic reason - it was literally whatever the local hardware store carried.

Why It Took 67 Years to Become Official - Despite Gray's brilliant invention, courses across Scotland continued doing their own thing for nearly seven decades. Learn why the R&A finally stepped in to standardize the game's most crucial piece of real estate - and why they simply shrugged and said "that'll do."

The Future of the Hole - From 15-inch "fun" holes and dual-flagstick courses to virtual simulators where cup size changes with a click, discover how the concept of "holing out" is evolving. Will the traditional 4.25" survive as golf pushes to be faster, more accessible, and more entertaining?

Episode Chapters

0:00 - 1:30 | INTRO The sound that defines golf and the question nobody asks
1:30 - 4:00 | THE MYSTERY OF THE STANDARD From chaotic Scottish links to Robert Gray's drainpipe solution
4:00 - 6:30 | THE R&A MAKES IT OFFICIAL Why 1891 changed everything and why precision matters
6:30 - 7:30 | DEFENDING THE STANDARD The sacred reverence for 4.25" and why change has been rejected
7:30 - 9:00 | THE FUTURE OF THE HOLE Innovation meets tradition: where the game is heading
9:00 - 10:07 | OUTRO Reflections on accidental standards

Links & Resources Mentioned

Robert Gray's original 1829 hole-cutter design

Click the image above to listen to the Bucket Golf episode of The ModGolf Podcast

🎧 Subscribe & Review:

If you enjoyed this deep dive, please consider following, rating, and reviewing The ModGolf Podcast on Apple Podcasts as it helps us reach new listeners and attract more incredible guests!

Connect with Colin @modgolfpodcast to DM him on Instagram

Join our Patreon community at www.patreon.com/modgolf for exclusive live shows, bonus content, and member-only giveaways.Click here to support The ModGolf Podcast.

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.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> Have you ever stood over a three-foot putt, heart pounding, and wondered why that tiny target is exactly 4.25 inches wide?
It's a number every golfer knows but almost nobody questions. In this bonus episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston takes you on a fascinating journey through Scottish golf innovation, 67 years of golfing chaos, and a decision in 1891 that shaped the game forever. Discover how a random piece of drainpipe from a maintenance shed became golf's most enduring standard - and why, in an era of innovation and "fun-first" golf, that 135-year-old measurement might finally be facing its biggest challenge yet.

What You'll Discover in This Episode

The Drainpipe Origin Story - Meet Robert Gray, the Royal Musselburgh Golf Club employee who solved golf's "wild west" of inconsistent hole sizes by grabbing a piece of standard plumbing from a maintenance shed in 1824. The 4.25" diameter wasn't chosen for any strategic reason - it was literally whatever the local hardware store carried.

Why It Took 67 Years to Become Official - Despite Gray's brilliant invention, courses across Scotland continued doing their own thing for nearly seven decades. Learn why the R&A finally stepped in to standardize the game's most crucial piece of real estate - and why they simply shrugged and said "that'll do."

The Future of the Hole - From 15-inch "fun" holes and dual-flagstick courses to virtual simulators where cup size changes with a click, discover how the concept of "holing out" is evolving. Will the traditional 4.25" survive as golf pushes to be faster, more accessible, and more entertaining?

Episode Chapters

0:00 - 1:30 | INTRO The sound that defines golf and the question nobody asks
1:30 - 4:00 | THE MYSTERY OF THE STANDARD From chaotic Scottish links to Robert Gray's drainpipe solution
4:00 - 6:30 | THE R&A MAKES IT OFFICIAL Why 1891 changed everything and why precision matters
6:30 - 7:30 | DEFENDING THE STANDARD The sacred reverence for 4.25" and why change has been rejected
7:30 - 9:00 | THE FUTURE OF THE HOLE Innovation meets tradition: where the game is heading
9:00 - 10:07 | OUTRO Reflections on accidental standards

Links & Resources Mentioned

Robert Gray's original 1829 hole-cutter design

Click the image above to listen to the Bucket Golf episode of The ModGolf Podcast

🎧 Subscribe & Review:

If you enjoyed this deep dive, please consider following, rating, and reviewing The ModGolf Podcast on Apple Podcasts as it helps us reach new listeners and attract more incredible guests!

Connect with Colin @modgolfpodcast to DM him on Instagram

Join our Patreon community at www.patreon.com/modgolf for exclusive live shows, bonus content, and member-only giveaways.Click here to support The ModGolf Podcast.

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.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> Transforming The Golf Entertainment Gaming Experience - TJ Schier, CEO/Founder at SmashSwing Immersive https://modgolf.fireside.fm/199-tj-schier 85cadd99-6cf8-450f-8828-aca4627180de Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:15:00 -0700 ModSport Media Inc. full 17 ModSport Media Inc. "We look to attract and appeal to the "golf curious" with SmashSwing". 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 that anyone can play. 36:06 no <p>"Our goal is to put a golf club in someone's hands for the very first time so they have a fun, memorable experience."</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>Key Takeaways you will discover on this episode are:</strong></p> <p><strong>Embracing Feedback for Innovation</strong><br> 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.</p> <p><strong>Targeting the Non-Golfer Market</strong><br> 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.</p> <p><strong>Building a Strong Brand Identity</strong><br> 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.</p> <p><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/rP2UrLYj.jpg" alt=""></p> <p>Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with TJ on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/eobulbCnJd4" rel="nofollow noopener">The ModGolf YouTube channel</a></strong> as he gives us a SmashSwing demo from their test facility in Dallas. Click on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/eobulbCnJd4" rel="nofollow noopener">this link</a></strong> or the image below as Colin and TJ extend their podcast conversation with key takeaways and lessons learned that will benefit all entrepreneurs.<br> <a href="https://youtu.be/eobulbCnJd4" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/d8TCTfhc.jpg" alt=""></a> </p> <p>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 <strong><a href="https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/tj-schier" rel="nofollow noopener">bio page</a></strong> to make that happen!</p> <blockquote> <blockquote> <p><a href="https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/tj-schier" rel="nofollow noopener">https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/tj-schier</a></p> </blockquote> </blockquote> <p>To learn more about SmashSwing, check out their website at <a href="https://smashswingimmersive.com" rel="nofollow noopener">https://smashswingimmersive.com</a> or click on the image below. <br> <a href="https://smashswingimmersive.com" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/3wXhMJq8.jpg" alt=""></a></p> <hr> <p><strong>Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear!</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Click to join &gt;&gt; <a href="https://patreon.com/Modgolf" rel="nofollow noopener">https://patreon.com/Modgolf</a></p> <p>I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin</p> <p><a href="https://patreon.com/Modgolf" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/q_IZwlpO.jpg" alt=""></a></p> <hr> <p>We want to thank our Episode Presenting Partner <strong>Golf Genius Software</strong> who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019!<br> Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience?<br> <a href="https://www.golfgenius.com" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/K9NPjjAv.jpg" alt=""></a><br> <strong>Golf Genius</strong> 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 <a href="https://www.golfgenius.com" rel="nofollow noopener">golfgenius.com</a>.</p><p>Special Guest: TJ Schier - CEO/Founder at SmashSwing Immersive.</p> modgolf podcast, SmashSwing, TJ Schier, golf simulator, golf entertainment, video games, gaming, golf events, golf travel, AI golf, PGA of America, golf instruction, golf lessons, golf swing, golf improvement, golf innovation, PGA Show, swing improvement, lower your golf score, golf entrepreneur, golf industry, golf business, modgolf, entrepreneurship, Innovation, sport tech "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!

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

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

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

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

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

We want to thank our 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 Guest: TJ Schier - CEO/Founder at SmashSwing Immersive.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> "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!

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

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

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

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

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

We want to thank our 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 Guest: TJ Schier - CEO/Founder at SmashSwing Immersive.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> Tech-Driven Products That Both Train and Entertain - Tim Briand, Foresight Sports https://modgolf.fireside.fm/174-tim-briand 7a21c705-06a0-4db5-9871-1d792bdf9f77 Thu, 27 Jun 2024 02:15:00 -0700 ModSport Media Inc. full 15 ModSport Media Inc. So how do golf launch monitors work and what is the technology behind them? Tim Briand with Foresight Sports joins host Colin Weston for an engaging and in-depth conversation about the massive growth in the launch monitor sector for both the professional player on the range and the recreational player having fun in a golf simulator. 41:59 no <p>"The average North American male golfer, over 80% - four out of five of them - gamble when they play regularly. So when we look at a virtual format like simulator golf, one of the big elements that creates stickiness is golf is community. And a lot of that community is based upon the idea of I can compete against you even though we have different skill"... Tim Briand, Foresight Sports</p> <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@modgolfpodcast/videos" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/L3TQFv4J.jpg" alt=""></a></p> <hr> <p>We want to thank <strong>Golf Genius Software</strong> who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019!<br> Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience?<br> <a href="https://www.golfgenius.com" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/K9NPjjAv.jpg" alt=""></a><br> <strong>Golf Genius</strong> 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 <a href="https://www.golfgenius.com" rel="nofollow noopener">golfgenius.com</a>.</p> <hr> <p>"There's far more commercial opportunity for a business that's able to optimize in the entertainment and in the gamification channel than if you're just focused on instruction and club fitting. In the gamification world while the exact precision of spin axis and spin magnitude might not be important to a 25 handicap because they don't understand it. What they do understand is if I'm in a simulator playing against my friends and this system is not capable of giving me an authentic outcome, I might not want to use that system to compete. Would you gamble on a broken slot machine? Probably not. Especially if you're doing big stakes contests like a million dollar closest to the flag contest in a simulator." </p> <hr> <p>We enjoyed our conversation with Tim so much that we decided to jump over to The ModGolf YouTube channel to learn more about the Foresight Sports culture of innovation and the diverse line of products that they offer. Click on <strong><a href="https://youtu.be/yDRxBQzYOkw" rel="nofollow noopener">this link</a></strong> or the image below to watch.<br> <a href="https://youtu.be/yDRxBQzYOkw" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/xsymRcE1.jpg" alt=""></a></p> <p>You can learn more about Tim and <strong><a href="https://www.foresightsports.com" rel="nofollow noopener">Foresight Sports</a></strong> on his <strong><a href="https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/tim-briand" rel="nofollow noopener">bio page</a></strong>. </p> <p><strong>Episode Chapters</strong><br> 02:15: We open the show with Tim giving us an overview of the history of Foresight Sports</p> <hr> <p><strong>Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear!</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Click to join &gt;&gt; <a href="https://patreon.com/Modgolf" rel="nofollow noopener">https://patreon.com/Modgolf</a></p> <p>I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin</p> <p><a href="https://patreon.com/Modgolf" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/q_IZwlpO.jpg" alt=""></a></p><p>Special Guest: Tim Briand - Director Of Business Development at Foresight Sports.</p> modgolf podcast, Foresight Sports, Tim Briand, golf launch monitor, golf simulator, GC Quad, entrepreneurship, golf genius, golf entertainment, golf business, modgolf, Innovation, sport tech, golf innovation "The average North American male golfer, over 80% - four out of five of them - gamble when they play regularly. So when we look at a virtual format like simulator golf, one of the big elements that creates stickiness is golf is community. And a lot of that community is based upon the idea of I can compete against you even though we have different skill"... Tim Briand, Foresight Sports

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.

"There's far more commercial opportunity for a business that's able to optimize in the entertainment and in the gamification channel than if you're just focused on instruction and club fitting. In the gamification world while the exact precision of spin axis and spin magnitude might not be important to a 25 handicap because they don't understand it. What they do understand is if I'm in a simulator playing against my friends and this system is not capable of giving me an authentic outcome, I might not want to use that system to compete. Would you gamble on a broken slot machine? Probably not. Especially if you're doing big stakes contests like a million dollar closest to the flag contest in a simulator."

We enjoyed our conversation with Tim so much that we decided to jump over to The ModGolf YouTube channel to learn more about the Foresight Sports culture of innovation and the diverse line of products that they offer. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

You can learn more about Tim and Foresight Sports on his bio page.

Episode Chapters
02:15: We open the show with Tim giving us an overview of the history of Foresight Sports

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special Guest: Tim Briand - Director Of Business Development at Foresight Sports.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> "The average North American male golfer, over 80% - four out of five of them - gamble when they play regularly. So when we look at a virtual format like simulator golf, one of the big elements that creates stickiness is golf is community. And a lot of that community is based upon the idea of I can compete against you even though we have different skill"... Tim Briand, Foresight Sports

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.

"There's far more commercial opportunity for a business that's able to optimize in the entertainment and in the gamification channel than if you're just focused on instruction and club fitting. In the gamification world while the exact precision of spin axis and spin magnitude might not be important to a 25 handicap because they don't understand it. What they do understand is if I'm in a simulator playing against my friends and this system is not capable of giving me an authentic outcome, I might not want to use that system to compete. Would you gamble on a broken slot machine? Probably not. Especially if you're doing big stakes contests like a million dollar closest to the flag contest in a simulator."

We enjoyed our conversation with Tim so much that we decided to jump over to The ModGolf YouTube channel to learn more about the Foresight Sports culture of innovation and the diverse line of products that they offer. Click on this link or the image below to watch.

You can learn more about Tim and Foresight Sports on his bio page.

Episode Chapters
02:15: We open the show with Tim giving us an overview of the history of Foresight Sports

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special Guest: Tim Briand - Director Of Business Development at Foresight Sports.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> Learn By Doing And Just Keep Moving Forward - Jared Solomon, CEO and Co-Founder of Five Iron Golf https://modgolf.fireside.fm/169-jared-solomon-five-iron 18cd2079-0537-4b18-968d-8e744c5fa1f8 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0700 ModSport Media Inc. full 15 ModSport Media Inc. "It doesn't matter that we made a million dollar mistake, let's keep moving forward and learn as we go". Jared Solomon - CEO of Five Iron Golf joins host Colin Weston to share how four co-founders built a successful indoor golf entertainment business starting from the back room of a Manhattan men's clothing store. 39:18 no <p>"We made a million-dollar mistake on the build-out. We thought plumbing could work one way. It couldn't. It's tough for a company that was started with the money that we had at the time, but you make those mistakes and move on, learn from it and don't dwell on it."</p> <p>Jared's Five Iron Golf story begins in early 2015 with Mike Doyle teaching simulator lessons in the back of a men’s clothing store in midtown Manhattan. As the demand for Mike’s lessons grew throughout 2015 and 2016, Mike and student Jared started dreaming about an indoor facility where Mike could teach more lessons and golfers could work to improve their games — all while flipping standard golf culture on its head and appealing to everyone.</p> <p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@modgolfpodcast/videos" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/n3I4Vlow.jpg" alt=""></a></p> <hr> <p>We want to welcome our new Episode Presenting Partner <strong>Synthetic Turf International!</strong><br> <a href="http://www.synthetic-turf.com/" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/i3kkRYpK.jpg" alt=""></a></p> <p>Synthetic Turf International - also known as STI - is the industry’s premier producer and supplier of high-quality, natural-looking grass products for residential and commercial applications, both indoors and out.</p> <p>I have collaborated on projects and ventures with STI for over 10 years through my Sport Entertainment company, so I have seen first hand how innovative, passionate, and creative they are. </p> <p>Speaking of Synthetic Turf International clients, Five Iron Golf has installed their turf products in the majority of their venues.</p> <p>If you are considering an artificial landscaped grass lawn, a putting green, golf tee lines and hitting mats, a synthetic sports field, playground turf or a dog park, then I highly recommend STI for your next project. And all of STI's grass products are crafted completely in-house and proudly made in America.</p> <p>To learn more about the endless synthetic turf application and installation possibilities that Synthetic Turf International has to offer, contact them at <a href="http://www.synthetic-turf.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">synthetic-turf.com</a>.</p> <hr> <p>"At our Las Vegas location we originally had a putting green in the center. We realized that nobody wanted a putting green. And so we put in shuffleboard. Nobody wanted shuffleboard and we put in the high top tables where people could just drink and were like, "Okay, this is what people want". And I like to believe that I've cultivated the spirit with the other Founders that it doesn't matter what happened, let's move forward. We're literally inventing a concept over here. The best thing that we can do is test and fail, test and fail and move forward and take everything that we've learned and hopefully use those for the franchises and our own future corporate stores and do the best that we can."</p> <p><strong>Episode Chapters</strong><br> 03:20: How and when Jared was introduced to golf <br> 04:40: The Five Iron Golf origin story. Spoiler: it involves hitting balls in the back of a Manhattan men's clothing store!<br> 07:15: Jared explains how he and the three other co-founders mustered up the courage to launch Five Iron Golf<br> 10:10: The story behind the first Five Iron Golf location opening in mid-town Manhattan<br> 12:50: How Five Iron creates experiences for both the casual and passionate golfer without alienating either one of the groups<br> 16:15: "We want our Five Iron locations to look like modern art museums". Jared discusses their design guidelines and how grafitti art became the focal point for their brand vision<br> 19:10: How Five Iron finds and hires artists to collaborate at each of their venue around the US<br> 20:45: Selection of the Five Iron Golf name and logo design<br> 23:40: How Five Iron scaled from one location to 25 and counting<br> 26:50: Jared's thoughts on starting a company and when to bring in outside investment<br> 28:10: Franchising vs the owership model for venue locations<br> 29:30: Mistakes made along the way and what the leadership team has learned from them<br> 32:50: The power of partnerships and collaborating with golf brands and influencers<br> 34:10: What the future has in store for Five Iron Golf</p> <p>You can also learn more about Jared on his <strong><a href="https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/jared-solomon" rel="nofollow noopener">bio page</a></strong>.</p> <p>Want to learn more about Five Iron Golf, find out if there's a location near you and to book a fun experience for you and your friends? Have a look at the <strong><a href="https://fiveirongolf.com" rel="nofollow noopener">Five Iron Golf website</a></strong> or email Jared Solomon at <a href="mailto:jared@fiveirongolf.com" rel="nofollow noopener">jared@fiveirongolf.com</a> </p> <p><a href="https://fiveirongolf.com" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/uekCD7Xd.jpg" alt=""></a></p> <p>With Mike and Jared clueless as to how to actually execute their grand idea, the final two co-founders, summer camp friends Nora Dunnan and Katherine Solomon (also Jared’s wife) entered the scene. With Nora operating the ship and Katherine navigating through some early legal storms, Five Iron Golf was launched and open for business in mid-2017.</p> <p>Five Iron has quickly re-shaped Manhattan's golf culture, growing from Mike’s original lesson crew to a re-imagined, high-tech, inclusive urban golf experience for golfers and non-golfers alike. Five Iron is for everyone.</p> <p>For the serious golfer, Five Iron hosts ten Full Swing simulators, a Trackman lesson studio, four teaching professionals, lessons, club storage, showers, practice time, leagues, 100% top-of-the line clubs to use (complimentary), and in-house club fitting specialists Club Champion.</p> <hr> <p>We want to thank <strong>Golf Genius Software</strong> who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019!<br> Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience?<br> <a href="https://www.golfgenius.com" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/K9NPjjAv.jpg" alt=""></a><br> <strong>Golf Genius</strong> 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 <a href="https://www.golfgenius.com" rel="nofollow noopener">golfgenius.com</a>.</p> <hr> <p><strong>Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear!</strong></p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>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.</p> <p>Click to join &gt;&gt; <a href="https://patreon.com/Modgolf" rel="nofollow noopener">https://patreon.com/Modgolf</a></p> <p>I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin</p> <p><a href="https://patreon.com/Modgolf" rel="nofollow noopener"><img src="https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/q_IZwlpO.jpg" alt=""></a></p><p>Special Guest: Jared Solomon, CEO and Co-Founder of Five Iron Golf.</p> modgolf podcast, Five Iron Golf, Jared Solomon, Callaway, Indoor Golf, golf simulator, golf entertainment, Synthetic Turf International, Golf Genius, golf business, modgolf, The PGA Show, Topgolf, Future of Golf, Synthetic Turf International, entrepreneurship, Innovation, sport tech, golf innovation "We made a million-dollar mistake on the build-out. We thought plumbing could work one way. It couldn't. It's tough for a company that was started with the money that we had at the time, but you make those mistakes and move on, learn from it and don't dwell on it."

Jared's Five Iron Golf story begins in early 2015 with Mike Doyle teaching simulator lessons in the back of a men’s clothing store in midtown Manhattan. As the demand for Mike’s lessons grew throughout 2015 and 2016, Mike and student Jared started dreaming about an indoor facility where Mike could teach more lessons and golfers could work to improve their games — all while flipping standard golf culture on its head and appealing to everyone.

We want to welcome our new Episode Presenting Partner Synthetic Turf International!

Synthetic Turf International - also known as STI - is the industry’s premier producer and supplier of high-quality, natural-looking grass products for residential and commercial applications, both indoors and out.

I have collaborated on projects and ventures with STI for over 10 years through my Sport Entertainment company, so I have seen first hand how innovative, passionate, and creative they are.

Speaking of Synthetic Turf International clients, Five Iron Golf has installed their turf products in the majority of their venues.

If you are considering an artificial landscaped grass lawn, a putting green, golf tee lines and hitting mats, a synthetic sports field, playground turf or a dog park, then I highly recommend STI for your next project. And all of STI's grass products are crafted completely in-house and proudly made in America.

To learn more about the endless synthetic turf application and installation possibilities that Synthetic Turf International has to offer, contact them at synthetic-turf.com.

"At our Las Vegas location we originally had a putting green in the center. We realized that nobody wanted a putting green. And so we put in shuffleboard. Nobody wanted shuffleboard and we put in the high top tables where people could just drink and were like, "Okay, this is what people want". And I like to believe that I've cultivated the spirit with the other Founders that it doesn't matter what happened, let's move forward. We're literally inventing a concept over here. The best thing that we can do is test and fail, test and fail and move forward and take everything that we've learned and hopefully use those for the franchises and our own future corporate stores and do the best that we can."

Episode Chapters
03:20: How and when Jared was introduced to golf
04:40: The Five Iron Golf origin story. Spoiler: it involves hitting balls in the back of a Manhattan men's clothing store!
07:15: Jared explains how he and the three other co-founders mustered up the courage to launch Five Iron Golf
10:10: The story behind the first Five Iron Golf location opening in mid-town Manhattan
12:50: How Five Iron creates experiences for both the casual and passionate golfer without alienating either one of the groups
16:15: "We want our Five Iron locations to look like modern art museums". Jared discusses their design guidelines and how grafitti art became the focal point for their brand vision
19:10: How Five Iron finds and hires artists to collaborate at each of their venue around the US
20:45: Selection of the Five Iron Golf name and logo design
23:40: How Five Iron scaled from one location to 25 and counting
26:50: Jared's thoughts on starting a company and when to bring in outside investment
28:10: Franchising vs the owership model for venue locations
29:30: Mistakes made along the way and what the leadership team has learned from them
32:50: The power of partnerships and collaborating with golf brands and influencers
34:10: What the future has in store for Five Iron Golf

You can also learn more about Jared on his bio page.

Want to learn more about Five Iron Golf, find out if there's a location near you and to book a fun experience for you and your friends? Have a look at the Five Iron Golf website or email Jared Solomon at jared@fiveirongolf.com

With Mike and Jared clueless as to how to actually execute their grand idea, the final two co-founders, summer camp friends Nora Dunnan and Katherine Solomon (also Jared’s wife) entered the scene. With Nora operating the ship and Katherine navigating through some early legal storms, Five Iron Golf was launched and open for business in mid-2017.

Five Iron has quickly re-shaped Manhattan's golf culture, growing from Mike’s original lesson crew to a re-imagined, high-tech, inclusive urban golf experience for golfers and non-golfers alike. Five Iron is for everyone.

For the serious golfer, Five Iron hosts ten Full Swing simulators, a Trackman lesson studio, four teaching professionals, lessons, club storage, showers, practice time, leagues, 100% top-of-the line clubs to use (complimentary), and in-house club fitting specialists Club Champion.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special Guest: Jared Solomon, CEO and Co-Founder of Five Iron Golf.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]> "We made a million-dollar mistake on the build-out. We thought plumbing could work one way. It couldn't. It's tough for a company that was started with the money that we had at the time, but you make those mistakes and move on, learn from it and don't dwell on it."

Jared's Five Iron Golf story begins in early 2015 with Mike Doyle teaching simulator lessons in the back of a men’s clothing store in midtown Manhattan. As the demand for Mike’s lessons grew throughout 2015 and 2016, Mike and student Jared started dreaming about an indoor facility where Mike could teach more lessons and golfers could work to improve their games — all while flipping standard golf culture on its head and appealing to everyone.

We want to welcome our new Episode Presenting Partner Synthetic Turf International!

Synthetic Turf International - also known as STI - is the industry’s premier producer and supplier of high-quality, natural-looking grass products for residential and commercial applications, both indoors and out.

I have collaborated on projects and ventures with STI for over 10 years through my Sport Entertainment company, so I have seen first hand how innovative, passionate, and creative they are.

Speaking of Synthetic Turf International clients, Five Iron Golf has installed their turf products in the majority of their venues.

If you are considering an artificial landscaped grass lawn, a putting green, golf tee lines and hitting mats, a synthetic sports field, playground turf or a dog park, then I highly recommend STI for your next project. And all of STI's grass products are crafted completely in-house and proudly made in America.

To learn more about the endless synthetic turf application and installation possibilities that Synthetic Turf International has to offer, contact them at synthetic-turf.com.

"At our Las Vegas location we originally had a putting green in the center. We realized that nobody wanted a putting green. And so we put in shuffleboard. Nobody wanted shuffleboard and we put in the high top tables where people could just drink and were like, "Okay, this is what people want". And I like to believe that I've cultivated the spirit with the other Founders that it doesn't matter what happened, let's move forward. We're literally inventing a concept over here. The best thing that we can do is test and fail, test and fail and move forward and take everything that we've learned and hopefully use those for the franchises and our own future corporate stores and do the best that we can."

Episode Chapters
03:20: How and when Jared was introduced to golf
04:40: The Five Iron Golf origin story. Spoiler: it involves hitting balls in the back of a Manhattan men's clothing store!
07:15: Jared explains how he and the three other co-founders mustered up the courage to launch Five Iron Golf
10:10: The story behind the first Five Iron Golf location opening in mid-town Manhattan
12:50: How Five Iron creates experiences for both the casual and passionate golfer without alienating either one of the groups
16:15: "We want our Five Iron locations to look like modern art museums". Jared discusses their design guidelines and how grafitti art became the focal point for their brand vision
19:10: How Five Iron finds and hires artists to collaborate at each of their venue around the US
20:45: Selection of the Five Iron Golf name and logo design
23:40: How Five Iron scaled from one location to 25 and counting
26:50: Jared's thoughts on starting a company and when to bring in outside investment
28:10: Franchising vs the owership model for venue locations
29:30: Mistakes made along the way and what the leadership team has learned from them
32:50: The power of partnerships and collaborating with golf brands and influencers
34:10: What the future has in store for Five Iron Golf

You can also learn more about Jared on his bio page.

Want to learn more about Five Iron Golf, find out if there's a location near you and to book a fun experience for you and your friends? Have a look at the Five Iron Golf website or email Jared Solomon at jared@fiveirongolf.com

With Mike and Jared clueless as to how to actually execute their grand idea, the final two co-founders, summer camp friends Nora Dunnan and Katherine Solomon (also Jared’s wife) entered the scene. With Nora operating the ship and Katherine navigating through some early legal storms, Five Iron Golf was launched and open for business in mid-2017.

Five Iron has quickly re-shaped Manhattan's golf culture, growing from Mike’s original lesson crew to a re-imagined, high-tech, inclusive urban golf experience for golfers and non-golfers alike. Five Iron is for everyone.

For the serious golfer, Five Iron hosts ten Full Swing simulators, a Trackman lesson studio, four teaching professionals, lessons, club storage, showers, practice time, leagues, 100% top-of-the line clubs to use (complimentary), and in-house club fitting specialists Club Champion.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special Guest: Jared Solomon, CEO and Co-Founder of Five Iron Golf.

Support The ModGolf Podcast

]]>