The ModGolf Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Women's Golf”

Attitude is Everything - How Kay McMahon Empowers Women In The Golf Industry

ModSport Media Inc. — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 05:30:00 -0700

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

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

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

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

Three Key Takeaways you'll discover:

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

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

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

💬 Inspiring Quotes from Kay McMahon

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

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

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

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

Episode Chapters

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

About Kay McMahon

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

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

Connect with Kay McMahon & WIGI

Women in the Golf Industry (WIGI) : womeninthegolfindustry.com
Join WIGI: Look for the "Join" button on the website
Junior Membership: Only $25/year for teenagers (and can be waived if needed)
Contact Kay directly: president@womeninthegolfindustry.com or kay@edukaytiongolf.com
EduKaytion Golf and Golf 8.5: edukaytiongolf.com

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

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

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

Join the ModGolf Community

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

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

A European Playbook to Future-Proof Golf - Renate Roeleveld, CEO of The Golf Course Association of Europe

ModSport Media Inc. — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0700

What happens when a hospitality professional stumbles into golf and ends up leading the charge for the sport’s evolution across an entire continent? Host Colin Weston sits down with his "new golf friend" Renate Roeleveld, CEO of the Golf Course Association of Europe (GCAE) to soak up her infectious energy and unique perspective on how Europe is redefining golf - from battling climate change with robotic mowers to creating "Fabulous Fridays" to get more women on the course.

Colin and Renate take a deep dive into the industry’s hottest topics: moving beyond the traditional 18-hole mindset, using tech to solve labour shortages, and why listening is the most powerful tool for inclusion. If you’ve ever wondered how golf can survive and thrive by embracing change, this conversation is your playbook.

Key takeaways in this episode with Renate that you will discover:

The "Short Format" Revolution:
Why golf courses need to stop defining golfers by 18 holes and start embracing par-3 courses and simulators to attract busy families and multi-sport athletes.

Hospitality is the New Currency:
Renate explains how her background in hotel management taught her that golf is a perishable "experience" business, and why women are naturally positioned to lead in this space.

Data-Driven Sustainability:
From robotic mowing to pesticide-free maintenance, European courses are being forced by regulation (and high energy prices) to innovate. Learn how greenskeepers are turning into data analysts to keep courses playable, sustainable and profitable.

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

Three Memorable Quotes from Renate:
On changing the game for women: "Women and men are equal, but we are not the same. When you realize the differences in how we experience golf, you can work your way around the small hurdles - and then it’s actually quite easy."

On the value of golf real estate: "As Jay of the NGCOA nicely put it: the dirt is worth more than the business. We have to do a better job showing what golf facilities offer to the community and the environment."

On resilience: "There are highs and lows when running. If you just keep going, focusing on what you’re doing and putting your best foot forward, you will make it to whatever finish line there is."

Renate Roeleveld's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/renate-roeleveld

Links & Resources Mentioned:
The GCAE Golf Course Assocation of Europe on Instagram: @gcae_golf
LinkedIn: Renate Roeleveld
The Golf Course Association of Europe: https://www.gcae.eu/

The ModGolf YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@modgolfpodcast

Episode Chapters:
00:00 – 05:00: Welcome & "Golf Orphans" – Renate’s accidental start in the Netherlands
05:00 – 10:00: What is the GCAE? A look at Europe’s diverse golf landscape (Nordics vs. South)
10:00 – 20:00: Inclusion in Action – The origin of "Fab Friday" and the Women’s Golf Project
20:00 – 28:00: Career Paths & Hospitality – Why golf needs more women in leadership
28:00 – 35:00: Tech & Sustainability – The rise of robotic mowers, data-driven greenskeeping, and the "Nature Pyramid"
35:00 – 40:00: The Future of Formats – why short courses are winning and Renate’s amazing New York Marathon story (running the last 10km on a broken leg!)
40:00 – End: Final advice on talking with communities, not about them

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

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

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

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

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

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

We want to thank 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: Renate Roeleveld - CEO of The Golf Course Association of Europe.

Applying an Improv Mindset to Golf - Gina Louise Phillips, Host, Producer, Writer, Actor and Golf Personality

ModSport Media Inc. — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 07:15:00 -0700

"So I take an improv mindset. It's all about fun. It's all about what happens next." Gina Louise Phillips combines her comedic, writing and acting experiences to inject a fresh perspective into the golf industry. Join us as Gina shares how her journey on shows like The Last of Us with Pedro Pascal and co-hosting Score Golf TV has inspired her to write and develop the first golf-themed sitcom.

Here are three key takeaways you will discover from Colin's engaging conversation with Gina:

1. The Power of Community in Golf: Gina emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment for women in golf. She shares her experiences and insights on how showing up and being visible can inspire others to join the game. By breaking down barriers and highlighting programs that cater to women, she encourages listeners to embrace golf as an accessible and enjoyable sport.

2. Improv and Golf: Embracing the Unexpected: Gina draws parallels between her background in improv and her approach to golf. She discusses how the principles of improv - such as being present, accepting mistakes, and adapting to the moment - can enhance the golfing experience. This mindset allows her to enjoy the game without the pressure of perfection, making it more about the fun and camaraderie than the score.

3. The Journey of Self-Discovery: Throughout the conversation, Gina reflects on her journey in the golf industry, from feeling like an outsider to embracing her unique perspective as a woman in a male-dominated space. She encourages listeners to focus on their strengths and to create opportunities for themselves, rather than waiting for others to validate their worth. This message resonates with anyone looking to carve their own path in any field.
These takeaways not only highlight Gina's passion for golf but also inspire listeners to approach the game - and life - differently. It's all about connection, growth, and enjoying the journey!

These insights not only provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, actors and writers but also inspire a deeper appreciation for the evolving landscape of the golf industry.

If you enjoyed this podcast episode, you can watch our video with Gina on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below as Colin and Gina discuss the keys to making golf more inviting and welcoming for everyone.

Want to connect with Gina and hear more about "Squat Valley Golf", the sitcom she is currently writing? Visit her bio page for contact information. And visit Gina's IMDB page to learn more about the shows and movies she has appeared in.

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 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: Gina Louise Phillips - Host, Producer, Writer, Actor and Golf Personality.

Building Community, Confidence and Connections - Courtney Campbell, Founder of Birdies Babes Golf

ModSport Media Inc. — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 22:30:00 -0800

Here are three key inspirational and informative takeaways that you will discover from the episode of The ModGolf Podcast featuring Courtney Campbell, Founder of Birdies Babes Golf:

1 Empowering Women Through Community: Courtney emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive and fun environment for women in golf. Birdies Babes Golf fosters a community where women can learn, socialize, and enjoy the game together, breaking down barriers and encouraging newcomers to participate without fear of judgment.

2 Create Innovative Programming and Events: This podcast highlights Courtney's creative approach to engaging women in golf, such as themed social nights and networking events. These gatherings not only provide a platform for learning the game but also facilitate connections among participants, leading to lasting friendships and a sense of belonging within the golfing community - all while having a fun time together.

3 The Power of Invitation: Courtney discusses how personal invitations play a crucial role in bringing new players into the sport. By encouraging existing members to invite their friends, Birdies Babes Golf has successfully expanded its reach, demonstrating that a welcoming atmosphere and shared experiences can significantly enhance women's participation in golf.

In 2019 Courtney launched Birdies Babes Golf (originally named Birdies Babes Beats) at an indoor golf entertainment venue in Vancouver as a way to give women a fun and relaxed introduction to the game she loves. Five years later, Birdies Babes Golf stages themed events all over greater Vancouver, especially at her 9 hole home course Gleneagles in West Vancouver.

If you enjoyed this podcast episode, we encourage you to watch our extended conversation on The ModGolf YouTube channel as Courtney offers up insightful takeaways and nuggets of wisdom with 5 KEY TIPS TO HELP WOMEN GET INTO GOLF Click on this link or the image below to watch our video.

If you would like to connect with Courtney, visit her bio page for contact information. To learn more about Birdies Babes Golf click on the image below to visit their website.

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

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

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

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

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

Special Guest: Courtney Campbell, Founder of Birdies Babes Golf.

NO RISK = NO FUN - Jillian Johnson, Founder of #LEGS, The Ladies Executive Golf Society

ModSport Media Inc. — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 08:30:00 -0800

"Perfection is the opposite of GO!"... Jillian Johnson - #LEGS Ladies Executive Golf Society

My first job in Jacksonville was caddying at Sawgrass and woman I met at the club said, "I really want to learn how to golf". But you're not going to go out on your own and practice putting. You wouldn't go out on a range if you have no idea what you're doing and no clubs. So figured I might as well start something for all levels. Whether you are a Collegiate golfer or someone who has never touched a club before, the vision was to create an experience where women could really experience the magic that happens on the golf course in a female friendly way.
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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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Click on the image below to watch our extended conversation with Jillian on our Youtube Channel!

"If you want something bad enough, you can make it happen"

"How do I want to be remembered? As the insurance lady or for doing something cool and different that makes a positive impact in women's lives?"

"I want more women out doing business on the golf course. I was in sales and calling on all these large organizations to find that there were hardly any female CEOs. I thought, "what can we do to continue to lift up women towards leadership through golf?" Because I think the world would be a better place, but my natural tendency is towards fun. So my goal: why don't we try and do this and accomplish this mission but have some fun while we're at it."

You can also connect with Jillian on her bio page, along with checking out the #LEGS website.

Episode Chapters
[04:00] Jillian provides us with an overview of #LEGS Ladies Executive Golf Society.
[06:20] Jillian shares the "AHA moment" that led to the creation of #LEGS.
[07:30] We learn about the people that encouraged Jillian to take the entrepreneurial leap.
[10:00] "It all started with a flyer and a sticker!" We hear about the first #LEGS pilot event in South Florida that helped inform the business model.
[12:50] "Perfection is the opposite of GO." Jillian shares how she applied The Lean Startup approach to #LEGS.
[15:30] Jillian talks about getting over the fear of failure and embracing a mindset of growth and curiousity as an entrepreneur.
[17:00] "So what do women really want from golf?" We learn where Jillian drew inspiration from to create the #LEGS experience.
[21:40] Colin asks Jillian how #LEGS attracts and onboards non-golfing women like his wife.
[28:40] Jillian discusses the #LEGS growth plan for creating chapters in every state of the US.
[31:30] Jillian shares some inspiring #LEGS member success stories.
[34:00] Colin asks how women listening can learn about starting a #LEGS chapter in their community.
[36:10] Jillian talks about the future for #LEGS and the launch of thier upcoming "Swinging To Success" series.
[38:30] Jillian explains the benefits #LEGS offers for golf courses, women golfers and sponsor partners.

Special Guest: Jillian Johnson - Founder of #LEGS - The Ladies Executive Golf Society ⛳️.

Transforming Latina Women's Lives Through Golf - Azucena Maldonado / Latina Golfers (070)

ModSport Media Inc. — Sun, 18 Aug 2019 17:00:00 -0700

"We teach women how to leverage golf as a business tool so they can shatter the glass ceiling with a golf ball”. On our latest episode, Azucena Maldonado, Founder of The Latina Golfers Association joins us to share how she has built a nationally scalable business that empowers women in the Greater Los Angeles area both on and off the golf course.

Azucena Maldonado is a trailblazer on a mission to transform women’s lives through golf. She founded the Latina Golfers Association (LGA) in 2008. Introducing women of all ages to golf for their professional development, personal enjoyment, and to promote a healthy lifestyle. With over 1,200 members in Los Angeles County, Azucena has received numerous awards and recognition for making an impact on growing the game of golf in the Latino community including being inducted in the Latino Sports Hall of Fame in 2013.

To learn more about The Latina Golfers Association, visit their website.

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: Azucena Maldonado, Founder of The Latina Golfers Association.