In this New Year episode of Golf & Politics, Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth sit down to map out what a great golf year actually looks like — from realistic travel planning to chasing bucket-list courses without turning golf into a job.

The conversation covers how to plan golf trips around work, family, and seasons, why over-planning can ruin the joy of the game, and how some of the world’s greatest courses fit into a long-term strategy rather than a rushed checklist. Rob shares insight from playing hundreds of courses worldwide, while Matt breaks down how election years, travel, and club commitments shape his golf calendar.

From Oklahoma and Midwest gems, to Ireland, Scotland, Australia, and iconic venues like Augusta National, Oakmont, and St. Andrews, this episode is about playing great golf intentionally — not just playing more golf.

The episode closes with a deep dive into bucket-list courses, golf architecture, and how both hosts balance demanding careers while still finding time to play at the highest level.

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🧠 Topics Covered:

• How to plan a golf year without burnout

• Choosing quality rounds over quantity

• Seasonal strategy for international golf travel

• Bucket-list courses in the U.S. and abroad

• Midwest, Oklahoma, and municipal golf gems

• Ireland & Scotland trip planning

• Augusta National, Oakmont, and top-tier architecture

• Balancing high-level careers with serious golf

• Productivity habits that make golf travel possible

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