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The ModGolf Podcast

The ModGolf Podcast

Hosted by The ModGolf Podcast

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256

Latest episode

Jul 2026

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EN-US

About the show

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 $100 billion/year 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.

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August 15, 202621 min

ModGolf Season 19 Wrap-up / Season 20 Preview

That's a wrap for Season 19 of The ModGolf Podcast! Our team is currently working on your next twelve episodes for Season 20, which launches mid September 2026. We heard some amazing stories from a diverse group of guests who discussed how innovation, inclusion, technology, entertainment, sustainability, celebrity, hospitality and community building intersect to shape the future of golf. If you didn’t get the chance to listen to all of our twelve Season 19 episodes, this bonus show gives you a recap of the great conversations I had with some of the golf industry's top influencers, innovators and entrepreneurs. Hopefully this will inspire you to listen to a couple of the episodes listed below. Let us know which ones you enjoyed the most and I'd love to learn why you liked them! Our Season 19 guests were: Episode 1: Hyman Ngo, Co-Founder of Levelwear What does it take to build a golf apparel brand carried by 85 of the top 100 clubs in both the US and Canada? Hyman Ngo, Co-Founder of Levelwear, joins The ModGolf Podcast to share his journey from contract manufacturer to industry leader, revealing the "Who's With You" manifesto, the brand's commitment to sustainable performance apparel, and how authentic relationships with caddies and golf pros drive long-term success in the competitive golf fashion space. Click to listen 🎧 >> Team Over Everything - The Art of Building an Enduring Brand Episode 2: Drew Koehler, Co-Founder of Blue Tees Golf What happens when a broken Amazon rangefinder ruins your round and sparks a multi-million dollar business idea? Host Colin Weston sits down with Blue Tees Golf co-founder Drew Koehler to unpack the entrepreneurial journey behind one of golf’s fastest-growing tech brands. From liquidating bank accounts for bootstrap capital to launching the new Rainmaker launch monitor and Scout AI, this is a must-listen for golfers and entrepreneurs who want to know how to disrupt the golf industry with better design and smarter technology. Click to listen 🎧 >> From Corporate Consultant to Golf Disruptor Episode 3: Greg Collins, Founder of GRIT Inc. He built a hockey bag empire from a handshake in a pizza parlour. Then COVID pushed the company to pivot into the world of golf. Greg Collins, founder and CEO of GRIT Inc. reveals how the 45-year industrial design veteran expanded from hockey into golf, turning fear into fuel and creating the revolutionary GRIT 2.0 Tower golf bag - a square, cart-stabilizing design that proves the best golf innovations come from off the fairway. If you're a golfer tired your golf bag twisting sideways in your cart, or an entrepreneur looking for startup resilience and product design inspiration, this is your must-listen episode! Click to listen 🎧 >> From The Hockey Rink to The First Tee Episode 4: Renate Roeleveld - CEO of The GCAE / Golf Course Association of Europe She broke her leg running the NYC marathon and kept going - so resilience and tenacity are part of her DNA. Golf Course Association of Europe GCAE CEO Renate Roeleveld joins us to reveal how European golf facilities are embracing tech, hospitality, and "short format" play to solve inclusion and sustainability challenges to make the sport more welcoming for players and profitable for operators. Click to listen 🎧 >> A European Playbook to Future-Proof Golf Episode 5: Geoff Tait - Founder & President of Triple Bogey Brewing He hung out with Arnold Palmer at Augusta, lost a multi-million dollar business, and then built a successful brewery from scratch - without knowing how to brew a single beer. In this raw conversation, Triple Bogey Brewing founder Geoff Tait shares the painful lessons from losing Quagmire Golf, why slow growth and customer loyalty beat venture capital, and how "better hit another" became a mantra for resilience. This episode is a must-hear for entrepreneurs, golf business fans, and anyone who loves craft beer on the first, ninth or 19th hole. Click to listen 🎧 >> From Losing it All to Over $12 Million in Annual Sales Episode 6: Kris Lynch - Golf Yourself Happy Think you’re not "good enough" to be a golfer? Think again. In this powerful mindset shift, former finance exec turned coach Kris Lynch exposes why 4 million golfers quit annually and why a "happiness first, handicap later" approach is the cure. Tune in to discover golf mindset, mental health, beginner tips, and how to overcome golf anxiety and imposter syndrome to actually enjoy the experience of playing over focusing on the result. Click to listen 🎧 >> Happiness First and Handicap Later Episode 7: JR Charles & Aron Schüler - AVA Golf / ParOne Are you feeling overwhelmed by launch monitor data and conflicting YouTube golf tips? You’re not alone. Guest host Rich Katz sits down with ParOne’s JR Charles and engineering director Aron Schüler to introduce AVA Golf - a new platform designed to replace guesswork with genuine golf intelligence. Discover how this "video-first" solution aggregates your Arccos and Garmin data to serve a personalized video playlist from Top 100 instructors, helping you fix the right thing at the right time. Click to listen >> Cutting Through The Golf Data Noise Episode 8: Don Donatello - PGA Tour caddie So what really happens when the cameras stop rolling on the PGA Tour? Host Colin Weston meets up with 28-year caddie veteran Don "Double D" Donatello at the RBC Canadian Open to uncover the untold physical, financial, and emotional realities of life on the bag and how Levelwear's Caddie Lounge is finally giving loopers the space, resources and respect they deserve. Click to listen 🎧 >> Creating The Caddie Lounge to Support PGA Tour Loopers Episode 9: Rob Sunstrum - Founder of Smart Golf Why would a laid-off logistics exec bet everything on building golf tournament software from scratch during a pandemic? In this live recording from Highland Golf Club, host Colin Weston sits down with Smart Golf founder Rob Sunstrum to explore how his innovative scoring platform is revolutionizing league management, re-engaging members, and driving F&B revenue for courses across North America. Discover how Smart Golf is turning weekly golf events into year-round communities, and how clubs are doubling participation by reclaiming ownership from outdated spreadsheets. Click to listen 🎧 >> Elevating The Golf League Experience Episode 10: Dr. Valerie De Maio & Dr. Chris Adamson Co-Founders of GolfDr Ready to stop your body from sabotaging your golf game? In this episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston sits down with the mother/son co-founding duo behind GolfDr: emergency physician Dr. Valerie De Maio and golf physiotherapist Dr. Chris Adamson to reveal why personalized, golf-specific body work is the secret to not just improving your performance, but sustaining it well into your 70s, 80s, and beyond. This conversation is a must-listen for golfers, fitness enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs alike, as they unpack the critical role of mobility in the golf swing, share the entrepreneurial journey from a mobile clinic to a scalable digital platform, and explore the massive opportunity in golf longevity and wellness. Tune in to discover how you can play longer, hurt less, and finally bridge the gap between what your mind knows and what your body can do. Click to listen 🎧 >> Move Better & Hurt Less Episode 11: Kevin Carpenter - US Managing Director at AM GOLF Are you ready to discover how golf technology can actually deepen human connection rather than diminish it? Return guest Kevin Carpenter - aka The GratiDude and US Managing Director of AM GOLF - joins us for an inspiring conversation that bridges golf business strategy, personal transformation, and the future of tournament experiences. From reimagining event software as a community-building platform to Kevin's powerful journey of sobriety and gratitude, this episode delivers actionable insights for golf entrepreneurs, fitness-minded golfers, and anyone passionate about where the game is headed next. Click to listen 🎧 >> Transforming Golf Experiences To Deepen Human Connection Episode 12: Jimmy Roberts Co-Founder of Big Swing Media For our Season 19 finale, legendary sports broadcaster and 16 time Emmy Award winner Jimmy Roberts delivers a masterclass in storytelling, journalism, and the business of golf. From his unforgettable first Masters experience alongside Byron Nelson to launching Big Swing Media, Jimmy reveals why curiosity trumps stats, how golf became America's most inclusive growth sport, and why 450 of 500 Fortune 500 CEOs are on the course. Whether you're a golf industry professional, aspiring broadcaster, or passionate fan, this episode delivers insider access you won't find anywhere else. Click to listen 🎧 >> The Business of Great Golf Storytelling We want to thank Golf Genius Software for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast! Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you’re a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com. Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited about our ModGolf Patreon that brings together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As a Patroen member you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin Special Guests: Aron Schüler - Director of Engineering with ParOne Inc / AVA Golf, Drew Koehler, Co-Founder / Chief Revenue Officer at Blue Tees Golf, Geoff Tait – Founder & President, Triple Bogey Brewing Company, Greg Collins, Founder & CEO of GRIT Inc., Hyman Ngo, Levelwear Co-Founder and SVP of Product/Marketing, JR Charles - CEO at ParOne / AVA Golf, Kevin Carpenter, The GratiDude / US Managing Director for AM GOLF, Kris Lynch - Mindset Coach & Founder of Golf Yourself Happy, Renate Roeleveld - CEO of The Golf Course Association of Europe, and Rob Sunstrum - Founder & CEO at Smart Golf.

July 30, 202639 min

The Business of Great Golf Storytelling - Jimmy Roberts, Co-Founder of Big Swing Media

Ever wonder what it's like to walk the hallowed grounds of Augusta National alongside legends like Byron Nelson? In our Season 19 finale, host Colin Weston sits down with the incomparable Jimmy Roberts - sports broadcasting icon, master storyteller, and co-founder of Big Swing Media - for a conversation that spans the evolution of golf media and the $250 billion annual business of golf. We To learn how a cold call to ABC's Wide World of Sports launched a four-decade broadcasting career that would lead to earning 16 Emmy Awards. From his first nervous steps at the 1991 Masters to launching a premium media company dedicated to golf's business landscape, Jimmy shares the lessons learned from a career that's covered every major sporting event on the planet. Whether you're an aspiring broadcaster, a golf industry professional, or simply someone who loves a great story, this episode is your backstage pass to one of sport's most respected voices. Three key takeaways that you'll discover: ✅ The Power of Curiosity Over Stats Jimmy reveals that his entire career was built not on memorizing statistics, but on genuine curiosity about people. His advice? "God gave us two ears and one mouth" so listen more because everyone has a story worth telling. ✅ Golf is a $250 Billion/year Global Ecosystem With more golf courses in America than McDonald's restaurants and 130 million "golf engaged" Americans, Jimmy explains why he and co-founder Fred Bucher launched Big Swing Media to cover the business side of the game that's been largely overlooked. ✅ Storytelling is About Making People Care From his days at ABC Sports learning from legendary producer Roone Arledge, Jimmy shares the foundational principle of great storytelling: educate your audience and give them a reason to connect emotionally with the subjects you cover. Inspiring Quotes from Jimmy Roberts: "Everybody's got a story. The heart of storytelling is to educate people and give them a reason to care. Give them a reason to identify, give them a reason to root." "If there was such a thing as YouTube back then, I'd probably be either waiting tables or selling insurance right now because there'd be evidence of my incompetence. I was really fortunate to learn on the job and make a lot of mistakes in obscurity." "We're not broadcasters, we're narrowcasters. We've identified our little lane where there's a lot of white space, and we're colouring in some of the lines." Episode Chapters 00:00 - Introduction Colin sets the stage for this special Season 19 finale conversation with broadcasting legend Jimmy Roberts. 01:01 - The Origin Story Jimmy shares his golf journey - from parents who introduced him to the game to maintaining a "comfortable somewhere in the 80s" handicap. He reveals the three things that make golf truly special: beautiful places, connection with people, and the joy of playing the game for a lifetime. 03:43 - The Breakthrough Moment The remarkable story of how a cold call to ABC's Wide World of Sports at age 18 launched a legendary career. Jimmy recounts pestering legendary producer Ned Steckle and landing his first gig covering the 1976 NCAA lacrosse championship. 08:40 - Finding Golf Why Jimmy strategically "planted a flag" in golf coverage at ESPN in the early 1990s - and how Tiger Woods' arrival proved to be the perfect timing that turbocharged Jimmy's storytelling career. 10:02 - First Masters Memories Jimmy's unforgettable 1991 Masters experience: showing up overwhelmed, finding comfort with Dave Marr, and the surreal moment Byron Nelson pretended to know him. "There was no way he had any idea who I was, but that's more a story about who Dave Marr was." 12:49 - Playing Augusta National Insider details on the Monday media lottery, playing the course, and what television doesn't capture - especially the dramatic elevation changes and the true challenge of those legendary greens. 16:05 - Augusta's Digital Innovation How the Masters leads the industry by asking "how do we make this the best it can be?" rather than "how much does it cost?" Jimmy shares insights on working with Augusta's digital committee, chaired by Comcast's Brian Roberts. 16:42 - The Art of Storytelling Jimmy's approach to journalism: be curious, ask more questions than you answer, and always remember that "everybody's got a story." He traces the lineage of "up close and personal" features to Roone Arledge's Olympic coverage. 19:28 - Big Swing Media Origins The founding story of Jimmy's digital media company, sparked by the surprising fact that there are more golf courses in America than McDonald's restaurants - and a $250 billion annual global industry with virtually no dedicated media coverage. 21:51 - Celebrity Golf and Growth Jimmy discusses guests like Steph Curry, Jack Nicklaus, and Delta CEO Ed Bastian. He shares insights on why celebrity events like the American Century Championship resonate. "They're like us. We all share this game." 29:03 - The Business of Golf How Big Swing Media targets the "CEO hour" on Golf Channel, reaching the 450 of 500 Fortune 500 CEOs who play golf. The focus on leadership, culture, and the business side of the game. 34:15 - Diversity and the Future The fastest-growing golf segments: young women and people of colour. Jimmy highlights stories like Five Iron Golf co-founder Nora Dunn and Stanford women's golf coach Anne Walker, whose program has won three of the last five national championships. 38:23 - Where to Find Jimmy Big Swing Media's footprint: The Big Swing podcast on YouTube, the Golf Channel show (Tuesdays at 7 AM ET), and the Golf Business Intelligence Brief newsletter twice weekly. 🎧 Subscribe, Rate & 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! Join our Patreon community at www.patreon.com/modgolf for exclusive live shows, bonus content, and members-only giveaways.[ Click here](www.patreon.com/modgolf) to support The ModGolf Podcast. I would really appreciate it if you do! Connect with Jimmy and Big Swing Media: Big Swing Media News: BigSwingMedia.News The Big Swing Podcast: Available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms On The Golf Channel: The Big Swing with Jimmy Roberts airs Tuesdays at 7 AM ET We want to thank Golf Genius Software for presenting this episode and for supporting The ModGolf Podcast since 2019! Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you’re a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com.Special Guest: Jimmy Roberts / 16-Time Emmy Award-Winning Broadcaster, Storyteller & Co-Founder of Big Swing Media.

July 28, 202610 min

The 4 1/4" Question: Why is a Golf Hole That Size?

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.

July 21, 202648 min

Transforming Golf Experiences To Deepen Human Connection - Kevin Carpenter, US Managing Director at AM GOLF

What if the future of golf isn't just about better scoring or smoother tee sheets, but about creating deeper human connections that transform how we experience the game? In this inspiring episode of The ModGolf Podcast, host Colin Weston reunites with one of his closest friends and most beloved guests, Kevin Carpenter - better known to the golf world as The GratiDude. Since his last appearance two years ago, Kevin has taken on an exciting new role as US Managing Director for AM Golf, a revolutionary all-in-one platform that's reimagining tournament management, community building, and the entire golf experience from registration to the 19th hole. Kevin's journey is anything but ordinary. From personal transformation through gratitude and sobriety to fostering a tech revolution in golf, his story reminds us that the greatest innovations come from the heart. In this conversation, Kevin reveals how AM Golf is breaking down barriers, creating genuine community, and turning tournament software from a utility into a social experience. If you care about the future of golf, technology that actually enhances human connection, or simply want to be inspired by someone who turned his life around through gratitude, this episode is for you. Three Key Takeaways You'll Discover in This Episode 1. Technology Should Serve Connection, Not Replace It AM GOLF isn't just another tournament software - it's a unified platform that combines scoring, communication, community building, and side game management in one intuitive app. By eliminating the need to toggle between multiple platforms, AM GOLF creates a seamless experience that allows players to connect before, during, and after events. The result? Deeper relationships, more engagement, and a golf experience that starts the moment you register. 2. Golf's Future is in the "Squishy" Stuff While scoring and logistics are essential, Kevin argues that the real opportunity lies in enhancing the social and experiential aspects of golf. From pre-event smack talk in community feeds to post-round scorecard celebrations, AM GOLF is designed to capture and amplify the shared memories that make golf so special. The software even allows players to create private side games visible only to their group - turning every round into a customized experience. 3. Distribution Is Everything in Tech Kevin's growth strategy for AM GOLF is refreshingly pragmatic. Rather than trying to win over every golf course operator at once, he's focusing on three channels: grassroots user adoption through events like the Vegas Baby Invitational, strategic B2B partnerships with golf cart manufacturers and POS companies, and pilot programs with course management groups. The goal? Get the software into people's hands, let them experience the value, and let word-of-mouth drive growth. "I'm not interested in being the best writing software writer," Kevin says. "I want to be the best selling software writer." 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Did you enjoy this episode? Please follow, rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with a with a friend who loves golf innovation stories. Join our Patreon community at www.patreon.com/modgolf for exclusive live shows, bonus content, and member-only giveaways.[ Click here](www.patreon.com/modgolf) to support The ModGolf Podcast. Your generosity will help ensure that I'll be able to continue to share golf's best innovations stories. 💬 Inspiring Quotes from Kevin Carpenter "Nobody except private equity gets into golf for the money. So what happens is you get to meet folks that have chosen passion first—chosen to pursue a career out of the heart versus the spreadsheet." This encapsulates Kevin's entire philosophy. Golf is a relationships-first industry, and the people who thrive are those who lead with purpose rather than profit. "I'd rather go to a big time point of sale company that has 500 or a thousand golf courses and offer the ability to roll our software in with theirs... But you really need the feedback and the voice of the industry in order to make educated decisions. Otherwise, you're just guessing." A masterclass in humility and market intelligence. Kevin's approach of testing, listening, and iterating has been crucial to AM Golf's early success. "Find your gift and give it away and walk away. What would the world look like if we all did that?" Kevin's GratiDude philosophy in a nutshell. After transforming his own life through gratitude and sobriety, he made it his mission to share his tools and insights with others while asking for nothing in return. 📋 Episode Chapters 00:00 - Introduction & The Power of Podcast Friendships 01:31 - Kevin Returns: "I didn't screw up too badly last time did I?" 03:56 - AM GOLF Overview: One Platform to Rule Them All 07:28 - The Evolution of Tournament Software 09:34 - Lessons from the Vegas Baby Invitational 13:20 - The "VB Bulletin" & Reimagining Event Communication 17:17 - Post-Event Engagement & Scorecard Celebrations 18:28 - Letting "Inmates Run the Asylum": Side Games & Private Leaderboards 22:16 - The Three-Pronged Growth Strategy 28:45 - Market Analysis: Why There's Room for AM Golf 34:43 - Defining the Ideal User & Customer Persona 36:37 - Technological Laggards & The NGCOA Pilot Program 37:07 - The Simulator & Indoor Golf Opportunity 39:34 - How to Try AM Golf (No Paywall!) 40:33 - The 2.5-Hour AI Prompt That Found Kevin 41:42 - The GratiDude Story: Finding Superpowers Through Gratitude 48:26 - Where to Find Kevin & Closing Reflections 🌟 Guest Bio Kevin Carpenter - aka The GratiDude - is the US Managing Director for AM GOLF, a next-generation golf management platform that integrates tournament software, community building, and player engagement into one seamless experience. With over two decades in the golf technology space, including stints at Parview and other industry leaders, Kevin brings a unique blend of technical expertise, relationship-driven leadership, and personal authenticity to his work. Beyond his role at AM GOLF, Kevin is a passionate advocate for gratitude, mindfulness, and personal transformation. Through his GratiDude platform, he shares daily insights on sobriety, self-talk, and neuroplasticity - inspiring countless individuals to find their own superpowers. 📲 Connect with Kevin Instagram: → @gratidude_abides LinkedIn: → Kevin Carpenter AM GOLF: → app.am.golf (Download the app - there's no paywall for 2026!) 🎧 Listen to More Don't miss Kevin's first appearance on The ModGolf Podcast two years ago where he shared his incredible journey to sobriety and the birth of The GratiDude. → https://modgolf.fireside.fm/175-kevin-carpenter The ModGolf Podcast is your regular dose of golf innovation. Subscribe wherever you get your podcastsSpecial Guest: Kevin Carpenter, The GratiDude / US Managing Director for AM GOLF.

July 7, 202643 min

Move Better and Hurt Less - Talking Golf Fitness, Longevity and Performance with the Founders of GolfDr

Are you tired of feeling like your body is holding your golf game back? You know you could hit it further and score better - if only your hips, shoulders, and back would cooperate. The frustration of knowing what you should do with your swing, but your body just won't let you, is real. Host Colin Weston sits down with the mother/son co-founding duo behind GolfDr: Dr. Valerie De Maio (a physician with over 20 years of emergency medicine experience) and Dr. Chris Adamson (a TPI-certified golf physiotherapist). Together, they reveal why personalized, golf-specific body work is the secret to not just improving your game, but sustaining it well into your 70s, 80s, and beyond. If you've ever been overwhelmed by the endless flood of golf fitness advice on social media or wondered why your body won't cooperate with your golf swing, this conversation is your roadmap to a more enjoyable, longer-lasting golf life. What you'll discover: ✅ Why 40%+ of golfers experience pain that disrupts their game - and how to identify the key mobility limitations (hip internal rotation, shoulder external rotation, torso rotation, and neck rotation) that might be sabotaging your swing. ✅ The GolfDr approach to fitness and longevity, moving beyond one-size-fits-all workout plans to personalized exercise prescriptions that adapt to your body, your goals, and your life. ✅ How this mother-son team pivoted from a mobile clinic to a scalable digital platform - and why they believe golf is truly a "lifespan sport" that deserves lifespan-focused care. Inspirational quotes from the episode: "We want to give people the inspiration they need. A big part of that is showing them their data in fun ways with the dashboard and allowing them to see their progress." - Dr. Valerie De Maio "Golf is rotational sport. But we do so much in our lives that are linear or very front to back, so we lose mobility in our ability to rotate." - Dr. Chris Adamson "If we can help people move better and hurt less, they'll enjoy playing more and be able to stay out there longer." - Dr. Valerie De Maio Episode Chapters 00:02 - Welcome to The ModGolf Podcast: meet the co-founders of GolfDr 03:40 - First golf experiences: from playing hooky to a shockingly fun triple bogey 07:38 - The origin story: how a pandemic pivot created GolfDr 11:45 - From mobile clinic to digital app: the evolution of GolfDr 12:48 - The GolfDr elevator pitch: where golf instruction meets physical rehabilitation 14:57 - The customer journey: what happens when you onboard with GolfDr 16:43 - The PERx: your personalized exercise prescription 18:36 - Global access and what's coming next (including AI-powered self-assessment) 19:58 - Partnerships and TPI certification 22:47 - Who's using GolfDr? Demographics, goals, and what men vs. women want from their golf fitness 27:45 - Ongoing care and technology: measuring progress, not just guessing 28:20 - Gamification and motivation: keeping golfers on track 30:23 - Mobility deep dive: the four key areas golfers need to work on 32:55 - The mobile clinic lesson: how a pivot led to a bigger vision 37:00 - How to connect with GolfDr and join the platform 39:05 - The longevity opportunity: why golf's lifespan makes it a business and lifestyle game-changer 42:49 - Closing thoughts: "Let's keep people golfing for as long as they can." 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Did you enjoy this episode? Please follow, rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with a with a friend who loves golf innovation stories. Join our Patreon community at www.patreon.com/modgolf for exclusive live shows, bonus content, and member-only giveaways.[ Click here](www.patreon.com/modgolf) to support The ModGolf Podcast. Connect with GolfDr: Website: golfdr.app Download the GolfDr app on iOS and Android About The ModGolf Podcast: The ModGolf Podcast speaks with entrepreneurs, innovators, disruptors, and influencers shaping the future of golf. Hosted by Colin Weston. We want to thank Golf Genius Software for presenting this episode and for supporting The ModGolf Podcast since 2019! Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you’re a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com.Special Guests: Dr. Chris Adamson - Co-Founder of GolfDr and Dr. Valerie De Maio - Co-Founder of GolfDr.

June 25, 202634 min

Elevating the Golf League Experience - Rob Sunstrum, Founder of Smart Golf

Picture this: You're an entrepreneur who just got laid off during COVID. Instead of finding another job, you take your logistics and sales background, pivot into golf tech, and go head-to-head with entrenched competitors who have deeper pockets and more market share. Why on earth would you do that? Because you found a pain point so painful that pros are practically begging you to build a solution. In this live episode recorded at the historic Stanley Thompson-designed Highland Golf Club, Colin Weston sits down with Rob Sunstrum, the founder of Smart Golf – a tournament and league scoring platform that's quietly becoming the industry's best-kept secret. From their exclusive partnership with the NGCOA Canada to being a scoring partner with Golf Canada, Smart Golf is proving that a fresh approach to technology can turn a men's league from 50 players to over 350. If you're a golfer tired of spreadsheet-powered leagues or a course operator looking to reclaim league ownership and drive F&B revenue, this episode is for you! Three Key Takeaways From Rob You'll Discover in This Episode The Power of Reclaiming Ownership – Most golf clubs let members run their own leagues, losing control over messaging, branding, and revenue opportunities. Smart Golf helps clubs take back ownership, driving participation and giving them the tools to integrate F&B specials and sponsorship packages seamlessly. As Rob explains, a league night can double a club's midweek revenue if managed correctly. Simplicity Trumps Features – Rob's logistics background taught him that onboarding matters as much as functionality. Smart Golf's lean learning curve and short instructional videos mean even the least tech-savvy members – yes, even those "Luddites" – can post scores with ease. Their approach? Tell players what they're about to do, let them do it, and then tell them what they just did. The Canadian Built Advantage – With 350 clubs on board (75 in the U.S.) and exclusive partnerships with NGCOA Canada and Golf Canada, Smart Golf's integration with Golf Canada's handicap system is seamless. Scores post with a single click. Add in automatic email recaps, player stats, and profile pictures, and you have a product that's sticky enough to keep members coming back every single week. Three Inspiring Quotes from Rob Sunstrum "My entrepreneurial journey started right at the start of COVID... Rather than thinking about looking for another opportunity in the same role that I was running in, I realized that I had a nugget of a solid idea." "You're definitely not going to have it right on the first 50 tries. But by the 51st try, you're going to have a large group of people thinking, 'Boy, you've thought of everything.'" "We think that our program is the best in the marketplace. But not only that – our price point is lower." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out the Smart Golf demo with Rob on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Intro: The Road to Highland – Colin sets the scene for this live recording at the historic Stanley Thompson-designed Highland Golf Club, and why Smart Golf is the future of tournament scoring. 01:58 – Icebreaker: Rob's First Golf Experience – The competitive origin story that set Rob on his path, from a junior camp victory to founding a scoring platform. 03:31 – The COVID Pivot: From Logistics to Golf Tech – Rob reveals how he got laid off from DHL and turned a "nugget of an idea" into a product that pros were begging for. 07:02 – Building the MVP: Why 50 Tries Matter – The lean startup approach Rob used, from designing the minimum viable product to iterating based on real pro feedback. Scar tissue and all. 08:55 – Leagues & Ownership: The Highland Model – How Highland's men's league grew to over 350 players, why the pro shop runs it, and how F&B specials turn Wednesday into the club's busiest day. 14:35 – The Player Journey: Email Formula & Stats – Rob breaks down the "tell them what they're about to do, let them do it, then tell them what they did" formula, plus how player stats and profile pictures build community. 17:36 – From Deuce Pots to Proximities – How Smart Golf's flighted games, skins, and deuce pots evolved from pro demands, and why saying "yes" to finicky requests has become a core competency. 21:04 – Growth & Partnerships – The exclusive NGCOA Canada partnership, the Golf Canada scoring integration, and why 75 clubs south of the border are already on board. 27:42 – Simulator Expansion – How Smart Golf is testing new features with simulator facilities in the off-season – and why 90 simulators now run their leagues on the platform. 30:00 – Business Model: Annual Subscription – Rob explains why a single annual subscription (cheaper than competitors) with no paywalls or limits is the winning formula, and why they avoid ads to keep the user experience pristine. 35:21 – How to Connect – Visit smartgolfsoftware.com or email Rob directly at rob@smartgolfsoftware.com. 🔗 Resources & Links: Smart Golf Website: https://smartgolfsoftware.com NGCOA Canada: https://ngcoa.ca Golf Canada: https://golfcanada.ca The ModGolf YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@modgolfpodcast 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Enjoyed this episode? Please subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and share it with a golf course operator or league captain who needs to retire their spreadsheet for good. Join our Patreon community at www.patreon.com/modgolf for exclusive live shows, bonus content, and member-only giveaways.[ Click here](www.patreon.com/modgolf) to support The ModGolf Podcast. Special thanks to Highland Golf Club for hosting this live recording, and to Rob Sunstrum for an honest, inspiring conversation about building a better way to play competitive golf. We want to thank our partner NGCOA Canada for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast! The National Golf Course Owners Association Canada (NGCOA Canada) is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to supporting the business of golf in Canada. Representing more than 1,500 member facilities nationwide, NGCOA Canada provides advocacy, education, marketing, operational resources to help golf course owners and operators succeed, as well as philanthropic support. You can learn more and connect at https://www.ngcoa.ca/ Special Guest: Rob Sunstrum - Founder & CEO at Smart Golf.

June 13, 202622 min

Inside the Caddie Lounge with 28-Year PGA Tour Veteran Don “Double D” Donatello

Do you ever wonder what the caddies get up to when the cameras stop rolling and the PGA Tour players head to the clubhouse? In this live episode from the RBC Canadian Open, host Colin Weston steps inside the Caddie Lounge (powered by [Levelwear](www.levelwear.com)) to uncover the gritty reality of life on the bag with 28-year tour veteran Don “Double D” Donatello. From carrying 42-pound golf bags up the equivalent of 60 flights of stairs a round to a dramatic "I quit" moment on the 4th hole, Don shares the wild, unfiltered stories of 650+ tournaments and why this lounge is a game-changer for professional caddies. Key takeaways in this episode with Don that you will discover: The Harsh Math of Caddie Economics: Don breaks down the financial gamble of being a looper - the low base salary, paying your own travel expenses, and how missing the cut means earning $0 for a week’s work. The Physical Toll of Looping: It’s not just walking. Don reveals the insane fitness stats: 18,000+ steps and 30-60 flights of stairs per day, all while balancing a 42-pound bag on uneven terrain. How the Caddie Lounge Was Born: Learn how a simple conversation over a Levelwear hat turned into a tour-wide movement, giving caddies their own space with massage therapists, video games, and the dignity they’ve deserved for years. The Caddie Lounge at The RBC Canadian Open is Levelwear's way of supporting their "Who's With You?" campaign to provide PGA Tour caddies with a space to unwind, rejuvenate and hang out with their fellow loopers. The Caddie Lounge is now at over 10 PGA Tour stops annually. Three Inspiring Quotes from Don Donatello On the old days vs. now: "28 years ago, I only got paid $400 a week. You drove in a car and slept three to a room. One guy would sleep on the floor and you had to stand outside in the rain. Now, thanks to Levelwear, we feel like we’re being treated like the players." On the secret to a long career: "Certainty out here is very important as a caddie. A lot of mistakes these PGA Tour players make aren’t because they not good - it’s because they’re uncertain. Knowing when to speak and when not to is a very fragile thing." On saving Webb Simpson’s career: "He had four holes to play to keep his card. I changed his read on two putts. He made both. He shot 63 to keep his card. He said, 'Those were some of the greatest reads ever!'" Episode Chapters 00:00 – Live from the RBC Canadian Open: Welcome to the Caddie Lounge 01:15 – Meet Don “Double D” Donatello: 28 years, 31 bags, 650+ events 02:30 – The Birth of the Caddie Lounge (and the “Who’s With You” campaign) 05:20 – Then vs. Now: **Sleeping on floors to massage tables **07:05 – The brutal physical stats: 42lbs, 18k steps, and 60 flights of stairs 09:15 – Don’s origin story: From best player at the club to caddie 10:20 – The economics of looping: Base salary, expenses, and betting on your player 13:05 – Don's Proudest moment: The Webb Simpson story (changing reads to save a card) 15:05 – The “I Quit” story: Walking off the course mid-round 18:05 – How new caddies get jobs (agents, veterans, and the Korn Ferry grind) 21:05 – Inside the prep work: How Don and Tom Hoge tackle a new course 24:35 – The therapist role: Knowing when to talk and when to shut up 26:12 – Wrapping up and wishing Don luck at The RBC Canadian Open

May 28, 202629 min

Cutting Through the Golf Data Noise – Personalized Golf Improvement with AVA Golf

You’ve taken lessons, watched hours of YouTube, and invested in the latest launch monitor - so why is your handicap barely moving? The golf industry has convinced you that the answer is always MORE: more technology, more stats, more swing thoughts. But according to JR Charles and Aron Schüler of ParOne, more is actually the problem. In this episode of The ModGolf Podcast, guest host Rich Katz uncovers how AVA Golf is flipping the script by turning your existing data (from Garmin, Arccos, and beyond) into a personalized prescription of video drills from Top 100 instructors. No more guesswork. No more generic fixes. Just a clear, sequential path to mastery. Tune in to discover why focusing on everything means fixing nothing, and how the right direction can finally unlock the golfer you know you can be. Key takeaways in this episode with JR and Aron that you will discover: The "Supply Constraint" in Golf Lessons: With 30,000 instructors serving 5 million golfers taking lessons (and a post-COVID boom), demand far exceeds supply. AVA Golf bridges this gap by scaling instructor-led advice via AI-driven video playlists, not replacing the pro, but making their expertise accessible 24/7. Your Game Becomes a Personalized Video Playlist: AVA Golf ingests data from your existing devices (like Arccos and Garmin launch monitors) and analyzes root causes. Instead of generic YouTube fixes, it serves a unique, sequential playlist of videos addressing your specific faults (e.g., fixing alignment vs. swing path for a slice). It Actually Works (Proof from the Engineer): Aron Schuler, the developer, is also the guinea pig. He dropped his handicap from a 28 to an 18 simply by using the platform he was building. This validates that removing the guesswork leads to tangible, measurable improvement. Three Quotable Moments from this episode: JR Charles on the problem with modern data: "I work in the golf industry and I work in game improvement. I don't know what half of these stats are. I have to Google them!" Aron Schuler on the mission of AVA Golf: "Most tools give you more data, but at AVA Golf, we're trying to give you direction. Ultimately, your game needs direction." JR Charles on focusing your practice: "Focus on the right things and not everything. If you focus on every single thing, you're just going to have a hodgepodge of a swing where you can barely hit the ball sometimes." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out the AVA Golf demo with JR on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Intro: Colin Weston hands the mic to guest host Rich Katz. 01:42 – Meet the Guests: Introducing JR Charles (CTO/CRO of ParOne) and Aron Schuler. 03:28 – The ParOne Thesis: Owning the video distribution path in golf (clients include LIV Golf & Golf.com). 05:40 – Why Aron Joined: From building "R10 Progress" to the vision of "Golf Intelligence." 07:49 – The Big Problem: Why more data leads to frustration, YouTube rabbit holes, and constrained PGA instruction supply. 09:57 – How AVA.Golf Works: Connecting your Arccos & Garmin accounts to get a personalized video playlist. 10:36 – The User Walkthrough: "Sign up, connect your providers, start receiving prescriptions." 11:29 – The Meaning of "AVA": Named after JR’s niece (and the acronym: AI Video Advisor). 13:18 – Real Results: Aron’s journey from a 28 to an 18 handicap using his own software. 14:23 – The Global Team: Engineers in Dallas, design in London, Top 100 instructors in Florida/Arizona. 15:38 – Case Studies: How ParOne helped LIV Golf with media distribution and Golf.com with scale. 18:44 – The Future of Golf: Why "playing golf" now means simulators, Topgolf, and the course. 23:17 – Making Golf Simple: Moving from "more data" to a "Purposeful, Intuitive, Practical (PIP)" system. 26:34 – Final Advice: Aron (Get Direction) & JR (Focus on the right things, not everything). 30:09 – Wrap Up: Colin Weston thanks Rich Katz and tells listeners how to join the ModGolf community. 🔗 Resources and Links: JR's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/jr-charles Aron's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/aron-schuler Rich Katz's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/rich-katz The ModGolf YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@modgolfpodcast Join their sneak peak waitlist on the AVA Golf website: https://avagolf.com/ 🎧 Subscribe and please give us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-modgolf-podcast/id1230363725 Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... plus 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 Guests: Aron Schüler - Director of Engineering with ParOne Inc / AVA Golf and JR Charles - CEO at ParOne / AVA Golf.

May 20, 202642 min

Happiness First and Handicap Later - Kris Lynch, Founder of Golf Yourself Happy

What if the reason you aren't enjoying golf has nothing to do with your swing? The governing bodies tell us participation is up, yet nearly 4 million golfers quit annually in the U.S. alone, and half of all on-course players don't even call themselves "golfers" because they don't feel "good enough." In this powerful episode, host Colin Weston sits down with Kris Lynch - a former finance professional turned golf mindset coach - who argues that golf is broken by a performance-obsessed culture. If you have ever felt like a "hacker" who doesn't belong, Kris has a radical prescription: forget your handicap, join the "Happy Hackers," and discover why belonging is more powerful than performance. Key takeaways in this episode with Kris that you will discover: The "Fitting In" vs "Belonging" Trap Kris explains the difference between conforming to outdated golf etiquette (fitting in) and actually being accepted for your authentic self (belonging). You’ll learn why most mental health initiatives for men fail and how golf can actually be the solution. The $150 Solution Kris highlights how a new wave of "proprietor-owned" clubs (like Parc Golf Club and Pottergate) are thriving by ditching committees, welcoming non-golfers for Sunday lunch, and offering low-cost memberships - proving that the future of golf is agility, not red tape. Why You Should Be a "Happy Hacker Discover the psychology behind reclaiming the insult "hacker." Kris details how his free WhatsApp community and mindset coaching helps golfers separate their self-worth from their scorecard, using the game as a tool for resilience rather than a report card. Three Quotable Moments from Kris: On the industry’s blind spot: "Golf does not have a participation problem. It has an experience problem." On the pressure to perform: "Golf has defined success too narrowly. We are average, everyday golfers, and we need to be at peace with that. We need a philosophy of happiness first, handicap later." On the power of community over instruction: "Culture shapes experience more than instruction does. We lead with a technical-first mindset rather than a people-centric approach. Golf talks to itself, and we forget that not everyone speaks that language." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Kris on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction: The big connector of golf 04:30 – Kris’s origin story: From hacking in Scotland to burnout in London finance 09:00 – The "Aha" moment: Leaving corporate HR to launch Golf Yourself Healthy 12:30 – The Experience Problem: Why 4 million golfers quit every year 17:00 – Culture vs. Instruction: The "belonging" principle and Brene Brown’s influence 24:00 – Success Stories: How nine-hole courses and inclusive short-game areas are saving the game 30:00 – What is a "Happy Hacker"? Building a community for average golfers 38:00 – Mental health in golf: Meeting men where they are (statistics on suicide prevention and connection) 44:00 – How to join the movement and connect with Kris 🔗 Resources and Links: Kris' bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/kris-lynch GYT Instagram: @golfyourselfhappy LinkedIn: Kris Lynch The ModGolf YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@modgolfpodcast The Golf Yourself Happy website: https://www.golfyourselfhappy.com/ and GYH YouTube channel: --> https://www.youtube.com/@golfyourselfhappy 🎧 Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with a golfer who needs to add more happiness to their game. Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin We want to thank our partner British Columbia Golf for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast! When I mentioned Kris' episode to the folks at British Columbia Golf they immediately wanted to support it, as one of their goals is to create a sport that is accessible and inclusive. British Columbia Golf strives to create a golf environment that is respectful of participant's personal goals and is free from all forms of maltreatment. British Columbia Golf supports women golfers and players of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, while continually working to increase participation in the sport with programs such as their Cloud Series. British Columbia Golf is the Provincial Sport Organization for golf as recognized by the Government of British Columbia and ViaSport. Golf Canada recognizes the association as the governing body within the province. British Columbia Golf provides programs benefitting golfers and the golf industry in the province that I'm proud to call home. Check out their website https://britishcolumbiagolf.org/ Special Guest: Kris Lynch - Mindset Coach & Founder of Golf Yourself Happy.

May 1, 202634 min

From Losing it All to Over $12 Million in Annual Sales - Geoff Tait, Founder of Triple Bogey Brewing

He walked away from a $750,000 golf apparel order, cried on his living room floor, and told his wife their dream was dead. Then he built a $12 million business from scratch - without knowing how to brew a single beer. Geoff Tait has one of the wildest entrepreneurial stories in golf. He started a funky golf clothing brand before Travis Matthew, Puma and Nike caught on, landed a deal with Arnold Palmer himself, and drank Kettle One with The King and Jack Nicklaus on a balcony at Augusta. Then it all fell apart. Business partner battles. Lost control. Humiliation. But here's the twist: Geoff didn't go work for someone else. He went back to teaching as a marketing professor as he built the business plan for Triple Bogey Brewing Company. No brewing experience. No investors. Just a fun name and a relentless commitment to slow, organic growth. This is a conversation about the real cost of entrepreneurship, the loneliness and exhilaration of building something from nothing, and why "better hit another" isn't just a Triple Bogey Brewing slogan - it's a life philosophy. Key takeaways in this episode with Geoff that you will discover: Losing control of your company is a nightmare - but losing your values is worse Geoff learned the hard way that scaling too fast with the wrong partners can cost you everything. Now he grows organically, keeps full control, and says "the best investor is your customer." You don't need to be an expert. You need to surround yourself with the right people Geoff couldn't sew a button or brew a lager. But he knew how to spot talent, build trust, and let experts execute. His superpower isn't technical skill - it's knowing who to bring into the room. The golf industry rewards loyalty, not flash While big brands fight for shelf space, Geoff built Triple Bogey one golf course at a time - by showing up, delivering great customer service, and making a product people actually want to drink on a hot day. Slow, steady, and authentic won the race. Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Geoff on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Three Memorable Quotes from Geoff: "I walked out of my office with a $750,000 JCPenney order on my desk that we didn't deliver. I went home and cried on the floor and had to tell my wife what happened." "If I'm going to do this, this time it's with slow growth. For the first eight years, I was putting my own money back in. I didn't want to take on partners. I wanted to keep this thing in my complete control." "It's a lonely world being an entrepreneur. There are sleepless nights where you're waking up trying to figure out how you're going to tackle the next step. But that's the fun of it. Even if you get pits in your stomach, you just gotta keep going." 🔗 Links & Resources Triple Bogey Brewing Company: www.triplebogey.com Geoff Tait's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/geoff-tait LinkedIn: Geoff Tait The ModGolf YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@modgolfpodcast Episode Chapters: 00:00: Welcome to The ModGolf Podcast 01:00: The Icebreaker: Geoff's first golf memory at age six 03:15: From bag drop to Australia to cruise ships (and Venezuela) 05:30: The birth of Quagmire Golf: funky clothes before anyone else 07:15: The random IMG phone call that led to Arnold Palmer 09:00: Redesigning Arnie's clothing line (and the Augusta invitation) 11:10: How things fell apart: business partners, lost control, and a $750k order 13:15: Crying on the floor: the lowest moment 14:45: Teaching college and secretly building Triple Bogey's business plan 16:40: Launching a brewery with zero brewing experience 18:20: Why "Triple Bogey" (and why you can't call a beer "Birdie") 20:00: Minimum viable product: one lager, sunny days, sessionable 22:30: The non-alcoholic pivot (and a secret water launch) 24:00: Colin's 99-year-old dad converts from his beer to Triple Bogey 25:15: Transfusions and how grape changed everything 28:30: Navigating provincial liquor boards (and why BC is finally opening up) 30:45: Selling direct to 600 golf courses (no brewpub, no sandwiches) 32:40: Lessons from Quagmire Golf: slow growth, no partners, stay in control 35:30: "The best investor is your customer" 37:45: The loneliness of entrepreneurship (and why it's worth it) 39:00: Where to find Triple Bogey (including a first step into the US) 41:30: Meet us on The ModGolf YouTube channel: more Arnie stories await 🍻 One Last Thing from Geoff "When you buy a Triple Bogey you're supporting my family - my kids Sawyer and Fiona, my wife Megan, and all our employees. We're not a faceless corporate brand. Drop me a line. I'm better on email than the phone. But call if you need a friend." Subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast so you never miss a story of resilience, reinvention, and the future of golf. 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: Geoff Tait – Founder & President, Triple Bogey Brewing Company.

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