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Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
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Estimated from 8 chart positions in 8 markets.
By chart position
- 🇨🇦CA · Golf#1015K to 30K
- 🇮🇹IT · Golf#4930K to 100K
- 🇲🇽MX · Golf#4930K to 100K
- 🇮🇳IN · Golf#6110K to 30K
- 🇳🇱NL · Golf#1521K to 10K
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
40K to 147K🎙 ~2x weekly·246 episodes·Last published today - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
81K to 293K🇮🇹34%🇲🇽34%🇨🇦10%+5 more - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
32K to 117K
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* Data sourced directly from platform APIs and aggregated hourly across all major podcast directories.
On the show
From 12 epsHosts
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Recent episodes
Elevating the Golf League Experience - Rob Sunstrum, Founder of Smart Golf
Jun 25, 2026
Unknown duration
Inside the Caddie Lounge with 28-Year PGA Tour Veteran Don “Double D” Donatello
Jun 13, 2026
Unknown duration
Cutting Through the Golf Data Noise – Personalized Golf Improvement with AVA Golf
May 28, 2026
29m 54s
Happiness First and Handicap Later - Kris Lynch, Founder of Golf Yourself Happy
May 20, 2026
42m 40s
From Losing it All to Over $12 Million in Annual Sales - Geoff Tait, Founder of Triple Bogey Brewing
May 1, 2026
34m 54s
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| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/25/26 | ![]() 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." 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, leave a review, 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. | — | ||||||
| 6/13/26 | ![]() 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 | — | ||||||
| 5/28/26 | ![]() Cutting Through the Golf Data Noise – Personalized Golf Improvement with AVA Golf✨ | golf improvementdata analysis+4 | JR CharlesAron Schüler | AVA GolfGarmin+3 | — | golf datapersonalized improvement+5 | — | 29m 54s | |
| 5/20/26 | ![]() Happiness First and Handicap Later - Kris Lynch, Founder of Golf Yourself Happy✨ | golf mindsetmental health+4 | Kris Lynch | Golf Yourself HappyParc Golf Club+1 | — | golfmindset coach+5 | — | 42m 40s | |
| 5/1/26 | ![]() From Losing it All to Over $12 Million in Annual Sales - Geoff Tait, Founder of Triple Bogey Brewing✨ | entrepreneurshipbusiness growth+4 | Geoff Tait | Triple Bogey BrewingTravis Matthew+2 | — | entrepreneurshipTriple Bogey Brewing+6 | — | 34m 54s | |
| 4/26/26 | ![]() The Rebuild - Part 4: Can a 50¢ Towel Finally Correct My Driver Swing Path?✨ | driver swing pathgolf training aids+3 | Quinn Vilneff | — | — | driverswing path+7 | — | 19m 13s | |
| 4/18/26 | ![]() A European Playbook to Future-Proof Golf - Renate Roeleveld, CEO of The Golf Course Association of Europe✨ | golf evolutionsustainability+4 | Renate Roeleveld | Golf Course Association of Europe | — | golfsustainability+5 | — | 41m 04s | |
| 4/7/26 | ![]() From The Hockey Rink to The First Tee - Greg Collins, Founder & CEO of GRIT Inc.✨ | entrepreneurshipgolf innovation+3 | Greg Collins | GRIT 2.0 Tower golf bagGRIT Inc.+1 | Bolton Ontario | golf bagsinnovation+3 | — | 26m 46s | |
| 3/28/26 | ![]() From Corporate Consultant to Golf Tech Disruptor - Drew Koehler, Co-Founder at Blue Tees Golf✨ | golf technologyentrepreneurship+3 | Drew Koehler | Blue Tees GolfApple | San Francisco | golf techBlue Tees Golf+3 | — | 38m 16s | |
| 3/18/26 | ![]() Team Over Everything: The Art of Building an Enduring Brand - Hyman Ngo, Levelwear Co-Founder and SVP of Product/Marketing✨ | brandingsports apparel+3 | Hyman Ngo | LevelwearNHL+1 | U.SCanada | LevelwearHyman Ngo+6 | — | 38m 24s | |
Want analysis for the episodes below?Free for Pro Submit a request, we'll have your selected episodes analyzed within an hour. Free, at no cost to you, for Pro users. | |||||||||
| 3/13/26 | ![]() Season 18 Wrap-up / Season 19 Preview✨ | season wrap-upgolf innovation+5 | David Buck | Big Swing Kings | — | golfinnovation+5 | — | 19m 13s | |
| 3/5/26 | ![]() The Rebuild - Part 3: Is Your Swing Sequence Correct?✨ | golf swingswing sequence+3 | Quinn Vilneff | Gowanus Golf ClubThe ModGolf Podcast | — | golf swingswing sequence+5 | — | 41m 24s | |
| 2/26/26 | ![]() The Rebuild - Part 2: Are You Ready To Fix Your Short Game By Understanding Spin Loft?✨ | short game improvementgolf instruction+4 | Quinn Vilneff | PGA of Canada | VancouverGowanus Golf Club+1 | short gamegolf lessons+5 | — | 36m 49s | |
| 2/19/26 | ![]() Live from The PGA Show 2026: Startups From The Inventors Spotlight✨ | golf startupssafety technology+3 | Conor MartinsGavin Cayenne+1 | Rapid Risk Reduction (R3)HEATbox+1 | Orlando | golfsafety+5 | — | 9m 31s | |
| 2/15/26 | ![]() Live from The PGA Show 2026: Inside Golf's AI Revolution with CourseRev.ai & PITCHcrm | Host: Colin Weston Guests: Del Ratcliffe (President, CourseRev.ai), Matt Wade (VP of Product, PITCHcrm), Chris Hill (CTO, CourseRev.ai) Duration: 28 Minutes In this episode of ModGolf LIVE, recorded on the show floor at the 2026 PGA Show in Orlando, host Colin Weston sits down with the leadership team behind CourseRev.ai and PITCHcrm. This isn't just a conversation about technology; it's a deep dive into the real-world challenges of getting a tradition-rich industry to adopt modern solutions. Colin is joined by Del Ratcliffe (President of CourseRev.ai & COO of Pinnacle Golf Properties), Matt Wade (VP of Product, PITCHcrm), and Chris Hill (CTO, CourseRev.ai). Together, they discuss the "secret sauce" of their tech stack - from an AI voice concierge that answers the phone to a CRM that automates marketing - and how they balance cutting-edge AI with the human touch required to train course operators. Del, bringing his 30+ years of course ownership experience, shares why he’s the "main guinea pig" for the products, how they handle the complexity of different golf course business models, and why getting a course to use the tech is harder than selling it. The team also teases the future of dynamic pricing using unstructured data and explains why AI isn't about replacing staff, but about freeing them up to create better face-to-face experiences. Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Del, Chris and Matt on The ModGolf YouTube channel live from The 2026 PGA Show. Click on this link or the image below as we extend our podcast conversation with key takeaways and lessons learned. Key Topics & Discussion Points Live from the PGA Show: Colin introduces a "3x" interview with three guests representing two integrated companies. What is CourseRev AI? An AI-powered voice and chat concierge designed to handle tee time bookings, modifications, and general questions, taking the pressure off pro shop staff. The "Main Guinea Pig": How Del Ratcliffe’s role as a multi-course operator (Pinnacle Golf Properties) allows the tech team to build solutions that solve real, painful problems. Introducing PITCHcrm: The "oldest product" in the family (since 2012) that automates email and SMS marketing based on customer reservation history, no-shows, and behavior. The Adoption Hurdle: Why selling the software is easy, but onboarding and training staff on how to use it is the real challenge in a non-early-adopter industry. Customization vs. Scaling: How the team handles the fact that no two golf courses are alike. Chris Hill explains how they now use natural language programming to quickly customize AI rules for specific course restrictions (e.g., "no seniors after 2 PM on Saturday"). Dynamic Pricing Deep Dive: The debate among owners about surge pricing, and how CourseRev.ai integrates instantly with tee sheets to reflect pricing changes. The Tease: Chris Hill hints at new dynamic pricing strategies that use unstructured data (like weather and demand factors) in ways humans never could. Serving Different Course Types: How the technology adapts to MCOs (Multi-Course Operators) with one clubhouse vs. multiple locations spread across states. The "Robocall" Fear: Addressing the misconception that AI phone answering is like the frustrating automated systems of 10 years ago. AI & Employment: The team confirms that AI isn't eliminating jobs; it’s allowing staff to focus on high-value, face-to-face interactions in the pro shop. Measuring Success: Using AI to track KPIs, identify frequently asked questions, and help course operators improve their websites and customer service. Notable Quotes Del on the Industry: "We're still largely an industry of mom-and-pop operations out there. Change is not real easy for us to overcome, and it can be scary, too." Chris on Tech Debt: "With AI, we can actually implement that much easier rather than trying to build something really rigid and structured in code. We can just write that now in natural language." Matt on Staffing: "Everyone listening to this has probably been in a situation where you've been in the pro shop and the guy's on two phones. It's definitely not eliminating staff because then you can even get more face-to-face quality interactions." Colin on Entrepreneurship: "If you don't have challenges as a startup you need to challenge yourself more. Like me with snowboarding, if you're not falling down you're not going fast enough." Resources & Links Learn more about CourseRev.ai: https://www.courserev.ai Email CourseRev: hello@courserev.ai Learn more about PITCHcrm: https://www.pitchcrm.com Want to connect with Del? Check out his bio page to make that happen! >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/del-ratcliffe Timestamps [00:00] - Cold Open: Colin introduces the "3x" interview at the 2026 PGA Show [01:30] - Guest Introductions: Del Ratcliffe, Matt Wade, and Chris Hill [03:00] - What is CourseRev.ai? Solving the pro shop phone pressure with an AI concierge [04:45] - Del's Dual Role: The President of CourseRev.ai as the client (COO of Pinnacle Golf Properties) [07:15] - The Tech Stack Explained: How PITCHcrm integrates with CourseRev.ai for marketing automation [09:00] - The Education Gap: Why golf course owners are laggards in tech adoption and how to warm them up to AI [12:00] - Customer Success Story: *The journey from reluctance to evangelism *[15:30] - Balancing Customization & Scale: How the team handles the "mom-and-pop" nature of different courses using natural language AI [19:15] - The Human Element: Onboarding staff and using the "Notice Board" for real-time course conditions [21:45] - Dynamic Pricing: Agonizing over surge pricing and how AI uses unstructured data to predict demand [24:30] - One Size Doesn't Fit All: Differentiating tech needs for MCOs, daily fee, municipal, and private clubs [28:00] - Overcoming Misconceptions: Why this isn't the frustrating automated attendant of the past [30:00] - AI & Jobs: How automation creates more valuable face-to-face roles in the pro shop [31:15] - How to Connect: Finding CourseRev.ai and PITCHcrm online [32:00] - Wrap Up: Colin teases the "Innovators Spotlight" mini-segments coming up next Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! 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 | — | ||||||
| 2/5/26 | ![]() Live from The PGA Show 2026: Beyond Golf Cart GPS and The Data-Driven Golf Revolution / Adam Kanouse with Reach Golfers | In this bonus live recording from the bustling floor of the 2026 PGA Show, host Colin Weston sits down with Adam Kanouse, Co-CEO of Reach Golfers. Discover why Colin was instantly drawn to their demo at the NGCOA Conference and learn how Reach Golfers is fundamentally rethinking the golf cart GPS experience. Adam reveals why 65% of public courses are still without this technology, how his company avoids an "adversarial relationship" with golfers, and the dual-revenue model that makes premium tech affordable. Get the inside scoop on their stunning, golfer-first interface, their massive untapped market, and their ambitious data-driven vision for the future of course management and personalized marketing. Here are three key takeaways you will discover from this conversation with Adam Kanouse of Reach Golfers: 1. A Massive, Underserved Market Exists Right Now Contrary to common belief, GPS technology is not ubiquitous. Adam revealed that approximately 65% of public golf courses in the $45-$75 green fee range have no GPS system at all. This represents a significant greenfield opportunity for Reach Golfers, which is focused on bringing modern tech to courses that have never had it, rather than just battling competitors for their existing customers. 2. Philosophy First: It’s About Enhancing the Golfer’s Experience, Not Just Protecting the Cart While many in-cart systems began with a primary goal of fleet management and asset protection (which can create friction with golfers), Reach Golfers flips the model. Their “secret sauce” is a golfer-first philosophy—building a beautiful, interactive, and helpful experience that also solves operational problems. This creates a more positive relationship between the course and the player. 3. The Future is a Data Platform, Not Just a GPS Reach Golfers views its device as a “computer on a cart” with potential far beyond yardages. The next frontier is harnessing on-course behavioral data - like pace-of-play patterns, common traffic areas, and player tendencies - to help courses with dynamic pricing, targeted marketing (e.g., offering lessons to high-handicappers), agronomy decisions, and overall operational efficiency. They are building the foundation for a deeply integrated, data-driven golf experience. Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Adam on The ModGolf YouTube channel live from The 2026 PGA Show. Click on this link or the image below as Colin and Adam extend their podcast conversation with key takeaways and lessons learned. Key Quotes from Adam Kanouse On Philosophy: "What differentiates us is we're not trying to protect the golf cart. Our competition all started protecting the golf cart creating a bit of an adversarial relationship with the golfer. We don't think that's necessary." On the Market: "We called every golf course that was public in 42 of the 50 states this summer. 65% of courses in that $45 to $75 green fee range don't have anything. It's an open market." *On Product Design: *"We have a huge advantage. We can step in with modern technology, modern design and see what worked and what didn't and only work on the things that people really want and need." On the Future: "My co-CEO likes to say that this is not a GPS device. This is a computer on a cart. The future is being able to identify the person who's on the course and be able to market to them with things that they care about." Want to connect with Adam? Check out his bio page to make that happen! >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/adam-kanouse Key Topics & Timestamps [00:00 - 02:30] Introduction & First Impressions [02:30 - 06:00] What is Reach Golfers? The Core Differentiator [06:00 - 09:30] The Demo & Revenue Model [09:30 - 14:00] The Massive Untapped Market & Growth Strategy [14:00 - 18:00] Product Philosophy & The Data-Driven Future [18:00 - 20:30] 2026: The Growth Year [20:30 - 22:00] PGA Show Magic & How to Connect 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 | — | ||||||
| 2/2/26 | ![]() Live from the PGA Show 2026: SmashSwing’s Multiplayer Golf Revolution with TJ Schier Jr. | In this special live edition from The 2026 PGA Show in Orlando, host Colin Weston kicks off the show with an in-depth conversation with TJ Schier Jr., Founder & CEO of SmashSwing Immersive. They dive into the evolution of TJ's groundbreaking multiplayer simulator system, the power of customer feedback, strategic partnerships with iconic brands like Atari, and the vision to redefine the indoor golf entertainment experience. Recorded amid the energy of the world's largest golf trade show, this episode is packed with entrepreneurial insights, industry trends, and a glimpse into the future of social golf. Here are three key takeaways you will discover from this conversation with TJ Schier: 1. The Future of Indoor Golf is Multiplayer & Social The traditional "one player hits, everyone else watches" simulator model is being disrupted. SmashSwing’s core innovation is simultaneous, side-by-side play for 2-24 people, transforming golf into a fast-paced, shared experience. This model reduces the intimidation for beginners, speeds up play, and creates a dynamic, energetic atmosphere more akin to a sports bar or entertainment venue than a solitary practice session. 2. True Innovation is Often a "Kit of Parts," Not a Single Invention A key entrepreneurial lesson from TJ's journey is that groundbreaking ideas don't always require inventing something entirely new. SmashSwing’s success lies in its unique combination of proven technologies—auto-tee systems, large-format screens, multiplayer gaming software—and wrapping it in a layer of licensed entertainment IP (like Atari games). This strategy of synthesizing existing concepts from different industries (golf, arcades, cinema) to solve a new problem is a powerful blueprint for innovation. 3. Listen to the Market, But Filter with a Strong Vision While TJ actively sought feedback from hundreds of potential customers, he emphasizes the critical skill of filtering out distracting "noise." Early on, many suggested he expand into soccer, hockey, or movie theaters. By staying true to the focused vision of "revolutionizing indoor golf," he was able to refine a product that genuinely serves that market's needs. The lesson: customer input is invaluable for polishing your product, but a clear, unwavering core vision is essential to avoid chasing every opportunity and losing focus. Final Takeaway: The multiplayer format reduces intimidation for new golfers, as spectators watch the engaging screen action, not the player's swing mechanics. Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with TJ on The ModGolf YouTube channel live from The 2026 PGA Show. 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 Episode Chapters 00:00 - 01:30 | Live from the PGA Show Hallway Host Colin Weston kicks off the show amid the bustling energy of the 2026 PGA Show, introducing the first guest, TJ Schier Jr. of SmashSwing. 01:30 - 04:15 | Introducing the Multiplayer Golf Experience TJ gives an overview of SmashSwing: a large-format, multiplayer simulator that allows 2-24 players to hit simultaneously, blending competitive entertainment games with traditional driving range functionality. 04:15 - 06:45 | The Build: From Prototype to Show-Stopping Booth TJ shares the rapid progress of the last eight months, a humorous story about a logistical mishap with lost keys, and the exhilarating moment attendees realized his booth was fundamentally different from other simulators. 06:45 - 09:00 | The Vision: Speed, Scrambles & Cinematic Screens A look at the upcoming roadmap, including features that will let foursomes play a virtual scramble in 30 minutes and the vision for massive indoor "cinematic" driving ranges. 09:00 - 12:00 | Games & Partnerships: From Atari to Future IP Discussion of the strategic licensing deal with Atari (Asteroids, Space Invaders) to attract a wider audience and the long-term goal of securing major entertainment IP (e.g., Star Wars) to bring new players to golf. 12:00 - 15:00 | Filtering Feedback & The Indoor Golf Alliance TJ explains the entrepreneurial challenge of listening to customer feedback while staying true to a focused vision for golf. He also introduces the Indoor Golf Alliance, a collective sharing best practices for operators. 15:00 - 18:30 | Defining the Customer: Country Clubs & Driving Ranges A revelation about the target market: country clubs are key early adopters, using the system for revenue-generating events. Other customers include public courses and venues building large-scale indoor ranges. 18:30 - 22:00 | Advice for Entrepreneurs: Pitch, Listen, & Combine TJ's key advice for founders: master the art of clearly explaining your difference, listen to customer problems before pitching solutions, and understand that innovation often comes from creatively combining existing ideas. 22:00 - 24:30 | Creating a "Blue Ocean" & Reducing Intimidation Colin frames SmashSwing as a Blue Ocean Strategy, creating a new market. TJ highlights how multiplayer play shifts spectator focus to the screen, making golf less intimidating for beginners. 24:30 - 26:00 | How to Connect & Closing Where to find SmashSwing at the PGA Show (Booth 1213) and how to connect online. Colin wraps up the conversation. 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: TJ Schier - CEO/Founder at SmashSwing Immersive. | — | ||||||
| 1/20/26 | ![]() Leaving Law to Liberate the Links - Amaya Athill, Founder of Golf Interrupted / Regional Director with Golf Canada | What does it take to leave a fast-track legal career to revolutionize golf? Meet Amaya Athill, Regional Director for Golf Canada, who pivoted from law to the links on a mission to make the game truly accessible for everyone. From her childhood on the greens of Antigua to leading First Tee Ontario with Golf Canada, Amaya reveals her powerful strategies for building trust, breaking down barriers, and creating diverse, welcoming communities in golf. Discover how intentional invitation is reshaping the sport’s future in this must-listen episode. Amaya shares her unique story of growing up with golf in Antigua, the stark contrast she felt returning to the game as a woman of colour in the UK, and the pivotal moment that led her to leave her law practice behind. We dive deep into her strategic approach to building trust and breaking down barriers in underrepresented communities, and vision for a more diverse and welcoming future for golf by embracing community, intentionality, and the transformative power of invitation. Episode Chapters: (00:00 - 01:28) Introduction and Welcome (01:29 - 03:15) Amaya's "Invitation to Golf" - Learning the game with her father in Antigua. (03:16 - 05:04: Early Exposure - Growing up in a diverse junior golf ecosystem. (05:05 - 10:55) The Career Pivot - From practicing law internationally to becoming a "pandemic golfer" and finding community. (10:56 - 14:23) The Turning Point - Hosting a "Getting Women Into Golf" event in London and landing a job at Golf Canada. (14:24 - 19:52) Inside First Tee Ontario - Mission, strategy, and the critical importance of building trust in communities. (19:53 - 23:25) Creating Pathways - Engaging families and the "next step" onto the golf course. (23:26 - 30:08) The Regional Director Role - Building relationships with golf facilities and navigating capacity challenges. (30:09 - 35:26) The Municipal Golf and Land Use Conversation - Opportunities for public access and partnership. (35:27 - 39:18) Innovative Access Points - The role of putting courses, short holes, and "Golf in Small Spaces." (39:19 - 42:10) The Indoor Golf Boom - Simulators as a key entry point for new golfers. (42:11 - 45:10) Amaya's Vision for Golf's Future - Hoping for greater diversity at all levels of the sport. (45:11 - 46:38) How to Connect and Outro Key takeaways in this episode with Amaya that you will discover: Trust is the Foundation: You cannot simply invite new groups into golf. You must first build authentic trust within their existing communities. Amaya emphasizes partnering with local schools and community centers to run initial programs, creating a bridge of familiarity before transitioning participants to a traditional golf course. Meet People Where They Are: Growth requires identifying and intentionally removing specific barriers—whether transportation, cost, equipment, or intimidation. Success comes from adapting the delivery (using plastic clubs indoors, providing busing) and finding facility partners whose values and capacity align with the mission. Access Comes in Many Forms: The future of growing the game isn't solely dependent on 18-hole tee sheets. Community putting greens, short courses, indoor simulators, and programs like First Tee create crucial, low-pressure entry points that can complement traditional golf and build a broader, more inclusive participant base. Three Compelling Quotes from Amaya: *On Finding Belonging: * "When I was in the UK, suddenly I was the only woman of colour that I would find on any golf course. It became a moment of fear, of isolation, of no longer feeling like this sport is mine or belongs to me." *On the Power of First Experiences: * "Seeing women that I wasn't seeing on the course, but that I needed to see on the course, holding a club for the first time. How hungry they were to know more, but had never had that invitation. That one event changed the course of my life." On the Secret to Welcoming New Golfers: "People might not remember what you say, but they'll remember how you made them feel. And I think that's the most important part of running programs." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then check out our extended bonus segment with Amaya on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Amaya Athill's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/amaya-athill Amaya Athill is a dynamic leader, advocate, and passionate force for change within the golf industry. As the Regional Director, Ontario for Golf Canada, she leverages a unique blend of professional rigour and heartfelt mission to break down barriers and make the sport more accessible and welcoming for all. Her journey is a compelling narrative of purposeful transformation: after building a successful international career as a civil litigation lawyer called to the bar in the UK and the Caribbean, Amaya made a decisive 180-degree pivot to follow her passion for golf and community. This shift was sparked by her own experience of feeling isolated as a woman of colour returning to the game in the UK, which ignited a drive to ensure others from underrepresented backgrounds could find belonging on the fairways. Beyond her programmatic work, Amaya is a sought-after voice on diversity, inclusion, and the future of golf. She is the founder of the digital community "Golf, Interrupted," which highlights diverse stories in the sport and is also the founder of Black Women Golfers (Canada). Links & Resources Mentioned: Amaya's Instagram: @golf_interrupted LinkedIn: Amaya Athill Golf Canada: www.golfcanada.ca First Tee Ontario: www.firstteeontario.ca The ModGolf Podcast: www.modgolf.com Listen and subscribe to The ModGolf Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Watch the extended video conversation on the ModGolf YouTube channel. 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 Phillis' 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. They strive to create a golf environment that is respectful of participant's personal goals and is free from all forms of maltreatment. British Columbia Golf supports women golfers and players of all ages and abilities, while continually working to increase participation in the sport with programs such as the Cloud Series. British Columbia Golf is the Provincial Sport Organization for golf as recognized by the Government of British Columbia and ViaSport. Golf Canada recognizes the association as the governing body within the province. British Columbia Golf provides programs benefitting golfers and the golf industry in the province. Check out their website https://britishcolumbiagolf.org/Special Guest: Amaya Athill - Founder of Golf Interrupted / Regional Director with Golf Canada. | — | ||||||
| 1/17/26 | ![]() The Rebuild - Part 1: Are You Ready for a Golf Transformation That Actually LASTS? | In this first episode, watch as Golf Fitness Coach Cameron Barkley runs Colin through the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Golf Fitness Screen at the Vancouver Golf Performance studio. https://www.vancouvergolfperformance.com/ The comprehensive 16-movement assessment reveals exactly how Colin's body is limiting his swing potential, creating a personalized roadmap for his physical development focusing on the areas that - as Cameron puts it - he "needs to clean up". Follow this authentic journey - the hard work, the breakthroughs, and the honest setbacks - as Colin works to build a stronger, more resilient game from the ground up. We created this series to serve as a blueprint for meaningful, lasting change in your own golf game. Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then why not watch this episode on The ModGolf YouTube channel! ---> https://youtu.be/Vtxcxs_If4I or click on the image to add some video to the sounds and words. Curious to learn more about the Titleist Performance Institute Golf Fitness Screen test that Colin took? Click on the image below to learn more. 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 | — | ||||||
| 12/31/25 | ![]() Beyond The Grid: Creating Legacy Through Long Drive - Phillis Meti, World Long Drive Champion | What does it take to not only reach the pinnacle of a sport like World Long Drive but to sustain a nearly two-decade career at its peak? In this engaging episode we go far beyond the grid and the spectacle of 380-yard bombs to uncover the heart, wisdom, and entrepreneurial spirit of a true icon. Host Colin Weston sits down with the remarkable Phillis Meti - ranked #3 in the world and 5 time World Champ - to explore her incredible journey from picking up her father’s shanked golf balls in New Zealand to becoming a global golf ambassador. Phillis opens up about the fierce mentality required to compete, the pivotal lessons learned from both victory and heartbreaking defeat, and her visionary mission to pave pathways for the next generation. This conversation is a masterclass in longevity, adaptability, and giving back. Whether you're fascinated by the physics of speed, the business of golf, or stories of profound resilience, Phillis’s insights will leave you inspired and ready to “kick the door down” for your own ambitions. Get ready for an episode packed with power, purpose, and unforgettable stories. Key takeaways in this episode with Phillis that you will discover: Longevity is Built on Wisdom and Adaptability: Success isn't just about raw speed. Phillis credits her sustained career to evolving from a "fearless" hitter into a savvier technical player, learning to adapt her ball flight to different grids, and prioritizing recovery and intelligent strength training. True Power Starts with Your Hands: A crucial technical insight for anyone wanting more speed: your hands hold the club, so their movement is paramount. Phillis emphasizes that generating speed is a sequencing chain, where proper hip movement ultimately serves to allow the hands to move faster through the hitting zone. Create Pathways So Others Can Follow: Phillis’s vision extends far beyond competition. Inspired by her parents, she is actively working to build an indigenous school and recruitment pipeline to help student-athletes from New Zealand and Polynesia transition to U.S. colleges, ensuring they have the support to succeed. Her mission is to show what’s possible and pull others up with her. Episode Chapters: (00:01 - 01:25) Introduction: Welcoming World Long Drive Phenom Phillis Meti (01:25 - 03:15) From Rugby to Golf: Phillis’s First Swing and Family Influence (03:15 - 06:26) A Multi-Sport Childhood: The Circuitous Path to Long Drive (06:26 - 08:42) Anatomy of a Competition: How World Long Drive Works (08:42 - 13:45) The Speed Equation: Training, Technique, and Swinging 125 MPH (13:45 - 17:13) Wisdom Over Fear: The Evolution of a Champion's Mindset (17:13 - 19:25) The Key to Longevity: Spinal Hygiene and Injury Prevention (19:25 - 24:35) The 2025 Season Arc: Global Competition and New Formats (24:35 - 27:59) Inside the Bag: The Tech & Specs of a Long Drive Driver (27:59 - 31:14) The State of the Game: Community, Competition, and Commerce (31:14 - 38:31) Entrepreneurial Drive: Building a School and Creating Pathways Home (38:31 - 42:43) A Vision for the Future: Bringing Long Drive to the Masses & Closing Thoughts Quotable Moments from Phillis: On Perspective and Growth: "Winning my first championship in 2006 and coming second twice after, I completely lost focus. I got caught up in the hype. Between then and now, I am a better game player with a bit more wisdom. I play the game differently now." On Equipment and Control: "The one thing about the women is that we don't swing it fast enough to afford using lofts lower than a seven-degree head. I have one of the fastest club head speeds, but I use one of the highest lofts on the tour." On Legacy and Lifting Others: "When you're on your way up, always try to look back and pull others up with you. So if people want to keep going further than you, at least they have your shoulders to stand on. Why not be me to kick down that door? I've got a big foot!" Phillis Meti's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/phillis-meti Phillis Meti is a multi-time World Long Drive Champion, currently ranked #3 globally, whose career embodies power, resilience, and purpose. Hailing from New Zealand, her journey began at age seven, wielding a club to pick up her father’s errant golf balls. A gifted multi-sport athlete, she excelled in netball and discus before a flyer for a local long drive qualifier at age 18 changed her trajectory. Demonstrating breathtaking natural power, she not only qualified but went on to win the World Long Drive Championship in her very first attempt in 2006. Nearly two decades later, Phillis remains a dominant force, combining 125 MPH clubhead speed with hard-earned wisdom to outthink and outlast the competition on grids across the globe. Colin and Phillis were part of Team AM Golf at The Vegas Baby ProAm Invitational in Las Vegas, where they shot lots of video including this YouTube Short as part of Colin's Positivity Project: 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 Phillis' 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. They strive to create a golf environment that is respectful of participant's personal goals and is free from all forms of maltreatment. British Columbia Golf supports women golfers and players of all ages and abilities, while continually working to increase participation in the sport with programs such as the Cloud Series. British Columbia Golf is the Provincial Sport Organization for golf as recognized by the Government of British Columbia and ViaSport. Golf Canada recognizes the association as the governing body within the province. British Columbia Golf provides programs benefitting golfers and the golf industry in the province. Check out their website https://britishcolumbiagolf.org/Special Guest: Phillis Meti: World Long Drive Champion, Entrepreneur, and Legacy Builder. | — | ||||||
| 12/19/25 | ![]() A Non-Golfer's Strategy for PGA Tour Digital Innovation - with guest Devon Fox | What does a non-golfer who loves Radiohead and once worked in a nightclub bring to the PGA Tour? A fresh perspective that drives groundbreaking innovation. In this long-awaited conversation, host Colin Weston sits down with Devon Fox, the Senior Director of Digital Programs at the PGA Tour. After eight years of connecting on LinkedIn, they finally dive into Devon’s unique journey from NASCAR and Nike to leading digital innovation in golf. Devon shares how her initial (and only) disastrous golf experience became a strategic advantage, allowing her to ask the questions no one else would. She pulls back the curtain on building the PGA Tour's first Fan Council, the decade-long process that led to the stunning Apple Vision Pro app, and how she intentionally "worked herself out of a job" to bake innovation into the Tour's DNA. Beyond technology, Devon opens up about the deeply personal motivation behind founding the PGA Tour's LGBTQ+ employee resource group, PRISM, and her advocacy for meaningful, policy-driven inclusion. This is a story about challenging tradition, the power of process, and building a future for golf that engages every fan. Key takeaways in this episode with Devon that you will discover: "Golf Ignorance" as an Innovation Superpower: Devon explains how not being a golfer allowed her to challenge sacred traditions and ask fundamental questions that insiders might overlook, leading to truly fresh thinking in digital fan engagement. Innovation is a Process, Not a Department: Learn how Devon moved the PGA Tour from having a small innovation team to baking innovative thinking into the product development process itself, ensuring it becomes a sustainable part of the culture. Inclusion Starts with Internal Policy, Not External Marketing: Devon shares her impactful, criteria-driven approach to LGBTQ+ advocacy to create PRISM within the PGA Tour workplace, focusing first on tangible employee benefits and education before any public-facing campaigns, creating lasting structural change. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - 02:10: Introduction and a Connection Eight Years in the Making 02:10 - 04:20: Devon's First (and Only) Golf Experience: A Hot, Hungry Disaster 04:20 - 07:20: The Strategic Advantage of Being a Non-Golfer & Asking "Weird" Questions 07:20 - 11:20: Building the Fan Council & Sourcing Ideas Directly from Fans 11:20 - 13:30: Learning from the NBA and the Two Rules of Sports Tech Innovation 13:30 - 16:30: Bridging Generations: Using New Tech to Showcase Golf History 16:30 - 19:15: The Innovation Process: From Design Thinking to Working Herself Out of a Job 19:15 - 23:35: Career Journey: From Soul-Sucking Banking to NASCAR and Global Retail at Nike 23:35 - 30:40: Advocacy in Action: Founding PRISM & Driving LGBTQ+ Inclusion from the Inside Out 30:40 - 33:00: The Size and Scope of the PGA Tour Organization 33:00 - 37:00: A Decade-Long Win: The Journey to the Apple Vision Pro App 37:00 - 38:15: Fostering a Culture of Ideas: The Annual Hackathon 38:15 - END: Closing & Teaser for the YouTube Candy Taste Test Quotable Moments from Devon: On bringing an outside perspective: "I really held on to this lack of golf experience and knowledge to give me permission to ask those weird questions that nobody else would ask. It really benefited me." On the purpose of technology: "You don't just do innovation and emerging technology for the sake of doing it. It has to have some value for the fan. You have to dig deep and find out what that is." On the long game of innovation: "One win I'm really proud of is the work that led up to the Apple Vision Pro app. It's this progression of 'let's see what we require to create it and let's go get after that, then build it in and operationalize that.'" Want to see Devon's reaction to tasting Thrills, a truly bizarre Canadian "soap-flavoured" gum from the 1970s while trying to carry on a conversation with Colin? Then check out our exclusive and fun bonus segment on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Devon Fox's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/devon-fox Beyond technology, Devon is a passionate advocate for meaningful inclusion within the sports industry. Driven by a personal commitment to creating safer, more supportive workplaces, she founded and leads PRISM, the PGA Tour’s LGBTQ+ employee resource group. Under her leadership, the group has driven substantive policy changes, including the expansion of benefits and resources, demonstrating her belief that true progress is built on internal structural change. Through her dual focus on operational excellence and human-centric culture, Devon Fox plays a pivotal role in shaping both the digital future and the inclusive ethos of the PGA Tour. 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: Devon Fox - Senior Director of Digital Programs at the PGA Tour. | — | ||||||
| 12/10/25 | ![]() Scaling Success: How Golf Genius Grew into a Global Powerhouse - Chris Kallmeyer, Golf Genius CEO | What does it take to build a golf technology empire that not only survives but thrives through explosive growth, multiple acquisitions, and rapid industry change? In this power-packed episode, Colin Weston sits down with Chris Kallmeyer, the CEO of Golf Genius, for a masterclass in scaling a business while preserving its core soul. Four years after his first appearance, Chris returns to pull back the curtain on how Golf Genius grew from a tournament software leader into a comprehensive ecosystem serving every facet of the golf professional’s world. We dive deep into the "glue" that holds it all together - a winning company culture - and explore the cutting-edge integrations of AI, the strategic expansion into sim golf, and the mission to create golfers for life. If you're in the golf industry, a business leader, or simply fascinated by how to build a beloved and enduring company, press play now. This conversation is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss. Listen to this full episode with Chris to discover: Culture is Your #1 Competitive Advantage: Discover why Golf Genius prioritizes cultural fit above all else, even in acquisitions, and how this focus has resulted in a world-class employee turnover rate of just 4%. Learn how a foundation of over 70 PGA professionals on staff creates an authentic, service-driven brand. Serving the PGA Professional is the North Star: Unpack the strategy of viewing the golf professional as the "center of the universe." See how this philosophy naturally led to a portfolio that solves pain points in tournament management, golf shop operations (Golf Shop), handicapping (via the USGA’s GHIN system), and coaching (Operation 36 & CoachNow). The Practical & Profitable Application of AI: Move beyond the hype. Chris details exactly how Golf Genius is implementing AI in two key buckets: to boost internal productivity (in development, support, and marketing) and to build powerful, time-saving features for customers, like automated inventory processing and intelligent coaching tools. Episode Chapters: (00:04) Introduction: The Return of Chris Kallmeyer (02:18) The Foundation: Golf Genius as a Tournament Management Powerhouse (05:53) The Secret Sauce: Building and Maintaining Company Culture (08:21) Acquisition Strategy: Why Cultural Fit is Non-Negotiable (19:02) Defining the Brand: Vision, Values, and Serving the Pro (13:18) Inside the Ecosystem: Powering the USGA’s Handicap System (16:36) Solving Pain Points: The Growth of Golf Shop (19:52) AI in Action: Making Golf Genius and Its Customers More Productiv (24:52) Growing the Game: The Coaching Portfolio (Operation 36 & CoachNow) (30:23) The Future is Hybrid: Expanding into Simulator & Indoor Golf (36:10) Global Growth: Key International Markets (39:53) Leadership Lessons: Strategic Bets and Saying "No" (41:51) How to Connect with Golf Genius Compelling Quotes from Chris On Culture & Growth: "We have a blended turnover with 300 people worldwide of something like 4% a year. That's world-class. It illustrates that we have a great culture that people enjoy working for. But beyond luck, we do take it very seriously and we work hard to maintain that culture, which gets harder and harder as you get bigger."* On Their Core Mission: "Our goal is to make the hard things easy while also making the easy things easy. We serve PGA professionals. They're the center of our universe. Whether they're running tournaments, managing golf shops, or coaching, we have products that help them do all those things, and we're here to serve them." On AI Strategy: "We look at AI in two primary buckets: How can we use AI to make ourselves more productive? And the second bucket is, how can we use AI to deliver AI-powered features that make our customers more productive or deliver capabilities that they don't already have." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Chris on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to see visual insights and dive deeper with Chris. Chris Kallmeyer's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/chris-kallmeyer Chris Kallmeyer is the CEO of Golf Genius, a global leader in golf technology solutions that power the sport's ecosystem. With a career deeply rooted in both technology and a passion for the game, Chris has guided the company through a period of remarkable expansion, transforming it from a premier tournament management platform into a comprehensive suite of tools serving golf professionals at every level. Under his leadership, Golf Genius has successfully integrated ten strategic acquisitions—including Operation 36, CoachNow, and GolfShot—while maintaining an unwavering focus on a customer-centric culture and brand integrity. His philosophy centers on serving PGA professionals as the core of the business, a principle that has driven the development and success of products across tournament operations, golf shop management, handicapping, and player development. Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Today's golf professionals do way more than run tournaments - and so does Golf Genius. They help you manage tournaments, leagues, and outings, streamline pro shop operations, and elevate your coaching and player development. That's why over 10,000 clubs, courses, resorts, associations, and tours in more than 60 countries trust Golf Genius. Find out what Golf Genius can do for your facility at golfgenius.com. Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! 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: Chris Kallmeyer, CEO at Golf Genius Software. | — | ||||||
| 12/2/25 | ![]() Colin's 18 Top Holiday Golf Gift Picks For Under $150 | Are there golfers on your Nice List who are deserving of some holiday cheer? Our host Colin Weston is here to help, as he provides golf gift picks to stuff your stockings and slide under your tree. But how many gift suggestions should we provide from our shortlist of deserving golf startups and companies that we have featured on The ModGolf Podcast? Well, since a traditional round of golf is 18 holes long let's go with that number! Click on the images below to learn more about and/or purchase the products we cover on this bonus episode. Hole 1: GripCaddie - revolutionary golf grip cleaning tool --> https://gripcaddie.com/ Hole 2: Grooveit - "The Wet Club Scrub Brush" --> https://grooveitbrush.ca/collections/shop-now Hole 3: Method Golf Co. - Magnetic Golf Accessories --> https://methodgolfco.com/ Hole 4: The Tee Clip - Handcrafted tee holding accessory Use coupon code "MODGOLF" to save 20% off a single item --> https://theteeclip.com/ Hole 5: The Links Diary - Golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game through words from the fairways of Scotland. A beautifully crafted magazine with new volumes released three times a year --> https://www.thelinksdiary.com/ Hole 6: Back 2 Basics Golf - Short Game Essentials Bundle Use coupon code "MODGOLF" to save 20% off a single item --> https://back2basics.golf Hole 7: PureOne - PureGrip Training Club --> https://pureonegolfshop.com Hole 8: Perfect Practice - indoor putting mats --> https://perfectpractice.com Hole 9: Swingtweaks - Personalized golf swing analysis and feedback app --> https://app.swingtweaks.com Hole 10: V1 Sports - The V1 Golf App --> https://v1sports.com Hole 11: ODIN Golf - Premium X1 Golf balls --> https://www.odin-golf.com/ Hole 12: Dormie Workshop - Handcrafted leather headcovers --> https://www.dormieworkshop.ca/ Hole 13: Zero Friction - synthetic & cabretta leather high performance golf gloves --> https://zerofriction.com/ Hole 14: Garsen Golf - customized putter grips --> https://garsengolf.com/collections/shop Hole 15: 36 A Day Golf Co. - ModGolf hats and hoodies --> https://36aday.com/products/modgolf-the-reegs Hole 16: Feetures - high performance athletic socks --> https://feetures.com/ Hole 17: Handsome Bogey - fun and fashionable men's golf polo shirts --> https://handsomebogey.com/ Hole 18: Levelwear - Men's and women's golf belts --> https://ca.levelwear.com/collections/mens-belts | — | ||||||
| 11/21/25 | ![]() How The Internet Invitational Sparked a Golf Media Revolution - with Matt Fisher, creator of The Mr. Short Game YouTube Channel | Host Colin Weston sits down with YouTube golf pioneer Matt Fisher (Mr. Short Game) to dissect the cultural phenomenon of the Internet Invitational. They break down the 23-million-view event, exploring why its reality-TV format and creator-driven personalities are resonating with a new generation of fans. Matt shares his expert take on the "winners and losers," the cheating controversy, and why this model is a blueprint for the future of golf entertainment. Finally, they look ahead to the evolving golf media landscape, including TGL and Grass League, and discuss how authenticity is the ultimate key to success for aspiring creators. Listen to this full episode with Matt to discover: Personality is the New Premium: The massive success of the Internet Invitational proves that modern audiences crave authentic personality and entertainment as much as they value elite ball-striking. The unfiltered, reality-show format is a powerful new model for golf engagement. Strategic Content Separation is Key: To grow an audience effectively, separate your content by purpose. Matt is splitting his channel into three: one for instruction, one for on-course vlogs, and one for the Mr. Short Game Podcast, ensuring each audience finds exactly what they want. Multiple Revenue Streams Drive Sustainability: Relying solely on YouTube ad revenue is risky. A successful creator business is built on a mix of AdSense, strategic brand deals, and affiliate partnerships, all while prioritizing the audience's trust and interests above a quick payday. Episode Chapters: (00:00) Introduction: Welcoming back YouTube golf pioneer Matt Fisher aka: Mr. Short Game (02:30) The Internet Invitational Breakdown: The surprise success of the 23-million-view event (05:15) Strategy & Timing: Why the delayed release was a brilliant move (08:45) Audience & "Bro Culture": Did the event reach new fans or just its base? (12:30) Reality TV & Manufactured Drama: Analyzing the cheating scandal and villain arcs (16:00) Stock Up, Stock Down: The creators who won and lost in the public eye (20:15) The Casting Dilemma: Why some creators were chosen and others weren't (23:00) The Future of Golf Media: TGL, LIV, Grass League, and where the real opportunity lies (27:30) TGL vs. Influencer Golf: Why pros and creators thrive in different ecosystems (29:45) The Mr. Short Game Business Model: Revenue streams and building a sustainable content brand (32:15) Advice for Aspiring Creators: How to break into the YouTube golf space Compelling Quotes from Matt On the Internet Invitational's Appeal: "You have to know going in that this is a reality show and everything's on the table... It's on brand for Barstool. And Bob, especially Dave Portnoy, he is going to exploit every opportunity he has. And I don't blame him. He's creating a great entertaining show." On the Difference Between Pros and Creators: "You get Grant Horvat, you put him in the Masters, he's going to come in dead last. But you put him in a cart with Bryson DeChambeau, he's going to come in first in terms of views." On Authenticity for Creators: "The challenge is you see what's working and you just try to copy it as opposed to being authentic of who you are and create your own brand. You gotta film yourself and you gotta find who you are in front of that camera and be authentically you." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Matt on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Mr. Short Game's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/matt-fisher As a golf coach Matt has learned that not everybody can be Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus or Phil Mickelson. However, with some simple golf instruction and swing tips you can become a great player and shoot your lowest scores consistently. Matt's goal is to give you great videos that will help you understand the golf swing so you can improve in your chipping, putting, driving and have a powerful swing that will last forever. Will you make it to the PGA Tour? Who knows. But with the right attitude and instruction you can have more fun and play the game of golf at a very competitive level. Mr. Short Game is here to help grow the game of golf in a fun and creative way: https://www.youtube.com/@MrShortGame 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! Today's golf professionals do way more than run tournaments - and so does Golf Genius. They help you manage tournaments, leagues, and outings, streamline pro shop operations, and elevate your coaching and player development. That's why over 10,000 clubs, courses, resorts, associations, and tours in more than 60 countries trust Golf Genius. Find out what Golf Genius can do for your facility at golfgenius.com.Special Guest: Matt Fisher, Creator of The Mr. Short Game YouTube channel. | — | ||||||
| 11/15/25 | ![]() How Golf Is Healing Heroes - Jonathan Sessa, Founder of Warrior Golf Academy | Warning: the topic of suicide is discussed during this episode of The ModGolf Podcast. This is more than a story about golf; it's a story about how a single moment, a single community, a single purpose can pull someone back from the brink and empower them to save others. Listen to this full episode with Jonathan to discover: The Therapeutic Power of a Single Shot: Jonathan explains how the intense, fleeting focus required to hit a golf ball can break the cycle of traumatic "thought traps" and provide a unique form of mental therapy. Building a "Technical School" for Golf & Life: Learn about Jonathan's vision to create a comprehensive pathway for veterans and first responders. Not just to play golf, but to build careers in the industry as players, caddies, clubhouse staff, and agronomy crews. From Isolation to Community: Hear how the Warrior Golf Academy is intentionally designed to combat the #1 killer—isolation—by creating a tight-knit, supportive community that replicates the camaraderie of military and first responder teams. Episode Chapters: (01:15) Introduction: The Transformative Power of Golf (01:54) Jonathan's Story Begins: A Descent into Darkness (07:24) The Turning Point: A Divine Intervention (10:23) The Road to Recovery: Costa Rica and a Return to Golf (13:50) The Birth of a Mission: Founding the Warrior Golf Academy (17:55) Discipline on the Course vs. the Battlefield (22:58) Filling the Gaps: A New Model for Veteran Support (27:05) Stories of Transformation: The Ripple Effect of Hope (31:45) Creating Community: Indoor Simulators and Local Events (34:05) The Ripple Effect on Families and Communities (37:12) The Future Vision: Scaling Hope and Building a "Golf Technical College" (41:39) A Message to Those Struggling: "You Are Not Alone" (43:22) How to Get Involved and Support the Mission Quotable Moments from Jonathan: On Purpose: "What people are looking for in this life is belonging and purpose. If you don't have those, then you don't have that will to want to live." On Golf as Therapy: "It's really just that extreme focus for the few seconds it takes to hit the golf ball and then you don't have to think about anything. It helps me get out of my own way." On His Mission: "My vision for Warrior Golf Academy is to reach at least one person and save their life. If I could do that, then everything I've done is worth it." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Jonathan on The ModGolf YouTube channel. Click on this link or the image below to watch. Jonathan Sessa's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/jonathan-sessa Jonathan Sessa is a US Army veteran and the Founder & CEO of the Warrior Golf Academy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and rebuilding purpose for veterans and first responders. His journey is a profound testament to post-traumatic growth. After his military service, Jonathan faced a profound period of darkness, grappling with the physical pain of service-connected injuries, the grief of personal loss, and the isolation that led him to the brink of suicide. His path to healing began with a powerful personal intervention and a transformative period in Costa Rica, where he rediscovered golf not just as a game, but as a therapeutic tool for mental wellness and a catalyst for his new mission. Driven by his own experience, Jonathan founded the Warrior Golf Academy to create the supportive community he found lacking. His vision extends far beyond teaching the golf swing. He is building a comprehensive "technical school" for the golf industry, providing veterans and first responders with the skills and connections to build careers as players, caddies, club managers, and agronomy staff. By focusing on belonging, purpose, and tangible career pathways, Jonathan's work directly combats the isolation that leads to the tragic statistic of "22 a day." Today, Jonathan leads a growing movement from the Academy's home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is a certified PGA HOPE instructor and a passionate advocate for leveraging the game's unique disciplines—focus, patience, and incremental improvement—to rewire the mind and heal the spirit. His work ensures that those who have served their country have a welcoming community they can return to, proving that our deepest wounds can indeed become the source of our greatest purpose. Connect and Support the Mission You can learn more about Jonathan and the incredible work of the Warrior Golf Academy, including how to get involved, donate or access their resources at their website: https://warriorgolfacademy.com/ If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. In the US, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. We also encourage you to reach out to Heads Up Guys for mental health resources, tools and support. Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! 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: Jonathan Sessa - Founder of The Warrior Golf Academy. | — | ||||||
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Chart Positions
8 placements across 8 markets.
Chart Positions
8 placements across 8 markets.

























