Tree of Life

01 May

S13, Ep 20: 2x PGA Tour Winner David Peoples on Q-School Pressure, The Masters & Mental Game + Scott Petersen Founder of Scott Golf on Creating Custom Clubs That Lower Scores

published in category: Next on the Tee on Friday, May 1st, 2026 – 12:29 pm

In this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by former PGA Tour winner David Peoples and Scott Golf Founder Scott Petersen.

David shares what it takes to persevere at the highest level, from grinding through Q-School eight times to becoming medalist in 1989 and winning twice on the PGA Tour. We talk about the pressure of playing for your career, his experiences at The Masters, getting “in the zone” when he shot 62 (including a 29 back nine) at the Southern Open, and competing alongside legends like Jack Nicklaus. He also delivers simple, effective mental game and on-course strategy tips you can use right away.

Then Scott Petersen takes us inside the world of custom golf club design, explaining how handcrafted precision leads to better distance control, tighter dispersion, and more consistency. We break down the importance of club fitting, what separates his process from big manufacturers, and why even PGA Tour free agents trust his clubs.

If you want to improve your mindset, play smarter, and understand how the right equipment can elevate your game, this episode is packed with insights you can take straight to the course.

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24 Apr

S13, Ep 19: Pitt Johnstown Men’s Golf Head Coach Cody Trabert on College Golf Success, Player Development & Winning Team Culture + Pro Football Hall of Fame Insights & Stories with James Allen

published in category: Next on the Tee on Friday, April 24th, 2026 – 10:23 am

In this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two outstanding guests who are even better people, delivering insights on college golf, player development, leadership, and what it takes to build winning teams.

First up is Cody Trabert, Head Men’s Golf Coach at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. Cody is leading one of the fastest-rising NCAA Division II golf programs, with multiple NCAA Regional appearances, a program-record scoring average, and tournament wins this season. We dive into college golf coaching strategies, player development, building a competitive team culture, and key golf instruction tips including course management, mental game improvement, and how to lower your scores.

Then I’m joined by former Pro Football Hall of Fame Board member James Allen, who shares expert insight on leadership, team chemistry, and what separates good teams from championship teams. We explore the parallels between football and golf, including player-caddie relationships, trust under pressure, and lessons from legends like Tom Watson and Gary Player. We also discuss what defines a Hall of Fame career, coaching legacy, organizational stability, and the mindset required for long-term success in sports.

If you’re looking for golf tips, college golf insights, leadership lessons, and behind-the-scenes stories from Hall of Fame-level sports, this episode delivers powerful takeaways to help you improve your game and understand what greatness really looks like.

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22 Apr

S13,Ep 18: Rory McIlroy’s Historic Masters Win | Augusta National Insights, Amen Corner Strategy & Expert Analysis with John Patrick, Frank Nobilo, & Rob Strano

published in category: Next on the Tee on Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026 – 9:56 am

In this special Masters wrap-up edition of Next on the Tee, we break down everything from Rory McIlroy’s historic victory to the traditions, what it’s like to play Amen Corner, and the challenges of Augusta National.

Legendary broadcaster John Patrick, who has covered The Masters for over 40 years, shares behind-the-scenes insights on Augusta, how the tournament has evolved, and where Rory’s win places him among the all-time greats—plus whether he and Scottie Scheffler are becoming this era’s Palmer and Nicklaus.

CBS Sports analyst and former Tour pro Frank Nobilo takes you inside Amen Corner, explains the challenge of club selection on the iconic 12th hole, and offers his perspective on Rory’s performance and what it might be like to be a fly on the wall of the Champions Dinner.

Top instructor Rob Strano rounds out the show with stories tied to 1968 champion Bob Goalby, plus practical advice on trusting your swing under pressure and what everyday golfers can learn from The Masters.

If you love The Masters, Augusta National, and insights that can help your game, this episode delivers both expert analysis and meaningful takeaways.

Tune in to Next on the Tee—where golf legends live and your game gets better.

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17 Apr

Next On The Tee: S13, Ep 17: Gratitude For Golf

published in category: Next on the Tee on Friday, April 17th, 2026 – 3:09 pm

This week’s episode is a little different—in the best possible way—because it’s all about gratitude.

Gratitude for this incredible game…the friendships it creates…and for you…for making the show part of your weekly routine.

To bring that theme to life, I’m joined by three outstanding guests who share their insights, perspectives, and love for the game:

First up is our Resident Director of Instruction, Tom Patri, who delivers tips you can take straight to the course—especially around the short game and course management. We also talk about why The Masters is our favorite week in golf, when to play smart versus aggressive, and reflect on legends like Seve Ballesteros and Fred Couples.

Then I’m joined by Dr. Bob Winters, “The Confidence Doctor,” who reminds us that the most important part of the game is the six inches between our ears. Bob shares powerful insights on the mental game, tournament preparation, and how gratitude and perspective can positively impact your performance.

We wrap things up with “The Bikini Chef” Susan Irby, who brings great energy and practical advice on how to fuel your body during a round. From what to eat and drink on the course to maintaining focus and stamina, she shares smart alternatives that go well beyond the usual options at the turn. She is so much fun, you’re really going to love her.

This episode isn’t just about instruction or strategy…

It’s about mindset…connection…and appreciation for the game and the people who make it special.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy a powerful dose of Vitamin G. And as always… thank you for pressing play.

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13 Apr

S13, Ep 16: Eric Johnson & Bob Friend Jr: Oakmont Stories, U.S. Open Memories, Baltusrol, Masters Picks & Golf Tips to Improve Your Game

published in category: Next on the Tee on Monday, April 13th, 2026 – 2:17 pm

This edition of Next on the Tee feels like a homecoming… as I’m joined by two longtime friends of the show and proud Pittsburgh natives who’ve each been with me since the very beginning.

First up is Golf Magazine Top 100 Instructor Eric Johnson. Eric has been a mainstay on that prestigious list for well over a decade, and his journey has taken him from 17 years at Oakmont…to Nemacolin…Yellowstone Club…and now to his new role as Director of Instruction at the legendary Baltusrol Golf Club. Eric shares what it’s been like stepping onto those historic grounds, reflects on last year’s U.S. Open at Oakmont, weighs in on Tiger’s latest challenges, and even gives us his picks for The Masters. Along the way, we share some laughs and pay tribute to a few special people who’ve helped shape his journey.

Then I’m joined by one of the game’s true grinders, Bob Friend Jr. Bob reflects on the work ethic that defined his career, what it was like being one of only a few players to ever qualify for the U.S. Open on his home course, Oakmont, in 1994, which was also Arnold Palmer’s final appearance. You’ll hear about what it was like to be on the course that day, the challenge of putting on greens during a recent tournament when they were rolling at an unbelievable 18 on the stimp, plus a great Jack Nicklaus story and a simple tip that can help all of us play better right away.

It’s a fun, story-filled episode packed with insights, memories, and practical golf advice you can take straight to the course.

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08 Apr

S13, Ep15: Gary Player & Agustin Piza On Masters

published in category: Next on the Tee on Wednesday, April 8th, 2026 – 10:52 am

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two incredible guests who bring both legendary perspective and modern innovation to the game.

First up is my annual Masters week conversation with the great Gary Player. Mr. Player shares insights from his three Masters victories, how Mr. Palmer lost his focus and opened the door to Mr. Player’s win in 1961, perhaps the greatest shot I’ve ever seen leading this win in ’74, and how he nearly shot 27 on the back 9 in ’78, leading to his 3rd Green Jacket. You’ll also hear what it takes to develop a true championship mindset, how discipline, fitness, and preparation fueled his success and longevity in the game, and why his book Don’t Choke should be required reading for every junior player. We finish talking about what today’s players can learn from the legends, and why growing the game and giving back remain so important to him.

Then, I’m joined by world-renowned golf course designer Agustin Piza, who takes us inside the art and strategy of course design. Augie explains what separates a good course from a great one, how architecture influences shot-making and decision-making, and how modern design is evolving for today’s golfer. He also shares stories from his work around the world, with Nicklaus Construction, Tom Fazio, and Gary Player, plus his involvement in designing holes for TGL. You’ll also hear how Alister MacKenzie redesigned bunkers for the British military to help disguise where their soldiers were set up during World War 1.

Augie is a brilliant designer who thinks outside the box, has a fresh take, and an amazing artistic eye. His passion for design and the game shines throughout our conversation. You’re really going to enjoy the segment.

This episode is a perfect blend of legendary wisdom and forward-thinking innovation—one that will not only entertain you but might just change the way you see and play the game.

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06 Apr

S13, Ep 14: Matthew Fitzpatrick’s Winning Formula, Cross-Handed Chipping Secrets & Unbelievable Golf Stories with Jay Delsing

published in category: Next on the Tee on Monday, April 6th, 2026 – 10:28 am

If you’re looking for golf tips, golf instruction, and unforgettable golf stories, this episode of Next on the Tee delivers all three.

On this episode I’m joined by Golf Magazine Top 100 Alumni Instructor Tom Patri and former PGA Tour pro and one of the most positive people on the planet, Jay Delsing, for a powerful mix of game-improvement advice, PGA Tour insights, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of golf.

Tom Patri kicks things off by breaking down Matthew Fitzpatrick’s win at the Valspar Championship, including what set his game apart and what everyday golfers can learn from it. Tom also explains cross-handed chipping—why players like Fitzpatrick and Kevin Kisner use it, how it works, and whether it can help improve your short game. Plus, hear Tom’s thoughts on US President’s Cup Captain Brandt Snedeker, who had a chance to win the Valspar, and early Masters predictions.

Then, Jay Delsing joins the show with stories that are almost too incredible to believe. From playing college golf at UCLA under legendary coach Eddie Merrins alongside stars like Corey Pavin and Duffy Waldorf, to unexpected rounds of golf with Sean Connery and encounters with Steven Spielberg and George Lucas, Jay shares unforgettable moments from his life in and around the game. He also reflects on his father’s Major League Baseball career, including a World Series win with the Yankees and unforgettable matchups against legends like Bob Feller.

Whether you want to lower your scores, improve your short game, or hear incredible golf stories from inside the ropes, this episode has something for you.

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31 Mar

S13, Ep 13: Golf Instruction Hall of Famer Jim McLean + Nicklaus Design Insights with Michael Riley | Improve Your Golf Knowledge & Course Strategy

published in category: Next on the Tee on Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 – 1:56 pm

Hi folks… welcome in to this bonus edition of Next on the Tee—where golf legends live and your game gets better.

This week, I’m joined by two incredible guests from different sides of the game.

First, Hall of Fame instructor Jim McLean shares insights from his legendary career, including his recent induction into the PGA of America Hall of Fame, stories from his college days at the University of Houston where he teamed with other golf legends and great friend of the show John Mahaffey, plus Bruce Lietzke, Bobby Watkins, Bill Rodgers, and Tom Jenkins to dominate and win the 1970 National Championship. He writes all about it in his new book, “The Houston Dynasty, Tales From College Golf’s Greatest Team,” which is available now on Amazon.com. From there, I get his take on technology vs. feel in modern golf instruction, we dive into his work developing players around the world, like James Nicholas, who recently won on the Korn Ferry Tour, and what it was like opening his golf school in South Korea.

Then, golf course designer Michael Riley joins me to talk about building world-class courses with the Nicklaus Design team, his award-winning work at Reunion Golf Club, and how great courses are created from vision to reality. You’ll also hear stories about working with Jack Nicklaus, taking long plane rides on Air Bear with him, and the competitive spirit of the “Big 3” in course design. From there, we get into the work he’s doing designing backyard putting greens for Southwest Greens. Ever dreamed of having a putting green in your backyard? I know I have. Michael can make that dream come true…

If you’re looking for golf tips, instruction insights, course design secrets, and great golf stories, this episode has it all.

Thanks for pressing play—and if you enjoy the show, please subscribe so you never miss an episode of Next on the Tee.

Posted in Next on the Tee

 



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