Linked By Golf

Guest: Coleman Rollins
Instagram: @colemangolfs

In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross chats with Coleman Rollins, a software engineer and golfer documenting his journey building a DIY open-source golf launch monitor from scratch.

Coleman shares how curiosity about expensive commercial launch monitors turned into a hands-on engineering project combining radar technology, Raspberry Pi computing, and open-source software — all documented publicly on Instagram so others can learn alongside him.

The conversation covers everything from caddying in Minnesota to testing radar data in a garage in Seattle, plus what it takes to turn raw motion data into meaningful golf metrics like clubhead speed, ball speed, launch angle, and spin.

At its core, the project is about making golf technology more accessible and showing that innovation in golf doesn’t always have to come from big companies.

Coleman’s tagline says it best:
“I built a launch monitor at home so you can too.”

• Growing up in Minnesota golf culture

• Moving from curiosity to building a launch monitor

• Radar vs camera launch monitor technology

• Using a Raspberry Pi as the “brain” of the system

• Trial-and-error testing at the driving range

• Building a custom enclosure for the device

• Making the project open source

• The role of community learning in golf technology

• What comes next: simulator integration and data analysis tools

• Puetz Golf

• Gerry Gubash — Radar engineering guidance

• Peter Michels — Enclosure design and fabrication

• OpenFlight GitHub Repository

Open-source project:
https://github.com/jewbetcha/openflight

Follow Coleman’s build journey:
Instagram — @colemangolfs

Follow the podcast:
@linkedbygolf2024

In this episodePeople and projects supporting Coleman’s journeyLinks

In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross sits down with renowned golf coach Kendal McWade to explore a radically different way of thinking about golf coaching, skill development, and performance.

From playing on Scotland’s competitive circuits and qualifying for a European Tour event, to working with Ryder Cup players and tour professionals, Kendal shares the story behind his journey into Instinctive Golf and why he believes traditional coaching methods often miss the point.

This conversation dives deep into motor learning, exploration, problem-solving, and why golfers should focus less on positions and more on developing skills through experience.

If you’ve ever felt stuck working on your swing mechanics — this episode will change how you think about improvement.

• Kendal’s journey into golf coaching and the moment that changed everything

• Discovering Extraordinary Golf and the influence of Fred Shoemaker

• Playing professionally in Scotland and qualifying for the Glasgow Classic

• Working with tour professionals including Paul McGinley

• Why many great players learned without formal coaching early on

• The difference between performance coaching and skill acquisition

• Why exploration and “motor babbling” are essential to learning golf

• The connection between trick shots and real skill development

• How golfers can build confidence by learning to solve problems with the club

• Why there is no single “correct” golf swing

  
  

Golf improvement isn’t about copying positions or chasing a perfect swing — it’s about learning to use the club to solve problems and developing your own movement patterns through exploration and experience.

If you enjoyed this episode of Linked By Golf, make sure you follow the podcast so you never miss a conversation with the people who make golf such a powerful connector.

Follow along on Instagram:
@linkedbygolf2024

Share this episode with a golfer who loves learning more about the game.

In this episode of Linked by Golf, I sit down with Mark Loftus for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about a life deeply shaped by the game of golf.

From growing up in Scotland and competing at the highest levels of amateur golf, to the fine margins that separate potential, opportunity, and outcome, Mark shares his story with honesty, humour, and perspective. We talk about the realities of elite golf, the people you meet along the way, and how the game continues to influence who you become long after competitive ambitions change.

This is a conversation about golf — but more than that, it’s about journeys, timing, friendships, and what the game leaves you with.

Whether you’re a lifelong golfer or simply interested in stories of sport and life, this one will resonate.

• Growing up around Scottish golf and early influences

• Competing at elite amateur level and what it really demands

• The fine margins and “sliding doors” moments in a golfing life

• Playing alongside (and against) future tour professionals

• The transition away from elite competition

• What golf teaches you beyond the scorecard

• What Mark is focused on now, and how the game still connects him to people

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Follow on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024

In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross McGuire sits down with Martin Gilbert to explore how his vision, leadership, and support have transformed Scottish golf. From elevating the Scottish Open and Ladies Scottish Open to nurturing amateur golfers into elite professionals, Martin shares the strategies, decisions, and initiatives that created a lasting legacy. Discover the impact he’s had on the game and why his work continues to shape future champions.⛳ Supporting Scottish Golf at Every Level

Martin reflects on the projects that defined his impact on the game, including:

• The rise of the Scottish Open as one of the strongest events on the European Tour

• The growth of the Ladies Scottish Open into a global showcase for women’s golf

• Long-term investment in amateur golfers who progressed into elite professional careers

This episode highlights how sustainable success in sport starts with grassroots development and long-term vision.

Martin shares a key insight into elite performance:

“Professionals practise what they’re good at – but it’s their weaknesses they should be working on. Only the data tells you that.”

Key themes:

• Why data-driven training matters

• The psychology of decision-making under pressure

• How amateurs and professionals can both improve faster by focusing on weaknesses

From pressure on the tee box to high-stakes tournament moments, Martin explains how the mind plays a defining role in performance.

This episode explores:

• Strategic decision-making

• Emotional control under pressure

• Why planning and discipline separate elite players from good players

Martin shares his experiences playing:

• Augusta National

• Pine Valley

• St Andrews (his ultimate favourite)

And the courses still on his bucket list:

• Pebble Beach

• Cypress Point

A powerful story from playing alongside Paul Lawrie in a final round, showing the intensity of pressure at the highest level of competition and the emotional reality of elite golf.

• Long-term success in golf comes from investing in people, not just events

• Data-driven improvement accelerates performance at every level

• Mental resilience is as important as technical skill

• Legacy in sport is built through consistent, values-driven leadership

Follow Linked By Golf on Instagram:

@linkedbygolf2024

How did Druids Golf grow from a small Irish startup into one of golf's fastest-growing apparel brands?

In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross McGuire sits down with Druids Golf founder Kevin Holland and marketing leader Tim Ferris to uncover the strategy behind a brand that challenged golf's traditional apparel giants.

From selling caps and towels door-to-door in Ireland to shipping golf apparel to more than 30 countries, Druids built a global business without major investors, expensive tour sponsorships, or premium price tags.

You'll learn:

• How Druids Golf started with no outside funding
• Why COVID accelerated the company's growth
• The strategy behind the famous Ambassador Pack (6 for £99)
• How Druids delivers premium-quality golf apparel at accessible prices
• Why the brand avoids multi-million-pound tour player endorsements
• How community and everyday golfers became its biggest marketing advantage
• What it takes to scale a global golf business while preserving culture

Whether you're a golfer, entrepreneur, marketer, or business owner, this episode offers a fascinating look at how a challenger brand disrupted an established industry.

Instagram:@linkedbygolfpodcast

In this special year-end recap, we look back on some of the most memorable stories and conversations from Linked By Golf in 2025 — moments that captured the spirit, humour, history, and emotion of the game.

From unexpected encounters on Scottish links, to unforgettable Open Championship memories, to deeply personal reflections that show just how much golf can mean, this episode celebrates the stories that linger long after the round is finished.

If any of these moments resonate, we’d encourage you to scroll back and listen to the full episodes for the complete conversations.

• A chance meeting with a golfer sleeping in his van that turns into one of the most memorable filming days of the year

• Behind-the-scenes storytelling with Bogey Train Films and their open, unscripted approach to golf content

• A remarkable journey through Open Championship qualifying and competing on the Old Course at St Andrews

• First-hand memories of iconic Open moments, including Jack Nicklaus’ final Open and unforgettable Ryder Cup scenes

• Deeply personal reflections on golf, loss, family, and why some wins mean far more than scorecards

• Insight into life at the heart of the game, from Dumbarnie Links to the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews

• Pete McLachlan — Bogey Train Films

• Lloyd Saltman — Scottish golfer and Open Championship competitor

• Jamie & Barrie Lewis — Crun Golf

• John Johnston — Amateur golfer and Senior Open qualifier

• Iain Carter — BBC & The Chipping Forecast

• David Scott — General Manager at Dumbarnie Links & Honorary Professional of The R&A

This is a highlights-style recap — a reminder of the depth and character behind the conversations we’ve shared this year. For the full stories, head back through the feed and spend time with each episode in full.

🎧 Enjoying Linked By Golf?
Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss future episodes.

📲 Follow the journey on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024

Thanks for listening — and for being part of the Linked By Golf story.

Scott Henry takes us inside the week that changed his career in 2012 — from frustration on the greens to finding confidence at exactly the right moment. A practice-round eagle, momentum under pressure, and a playoff win that delivered his first real sense of financial security in professional golf.

This is a raw look at how belief, preparation, and timing can flip everything.

Key Moments:
• From struggling with the putter to rebuilding confidence
• The practice-round eagle that sparked a winning week
• Handling pressure playing alongside big names
• Why one win can change your entire outlook as a pro
• The fine margins between “nearly” and breakthrough

Big Takeaway:
If your skills are good enough, results will come — but only if you keep improving, make the right decisions off the course, and put yourself in the right environments.

Why It Matters:
Golf careers aren’t linear. Scott’s story is a reminder that momentum, belief, and one big moment can open doors — but staying there requires growth.

🎧 Full episode available now
📍 Follow: @linkedbygolf2024

#LinkedByGolf #GolfPodcast #ProGolf #GolfStories #BehindTheScenesGolf #GolfMindset #TourLife #GolfConfidence #ScottHenry

Two remarkable stories. Two amateur golfers. One extraordinary achievement.

Kenny Gallagher and John Johnston share their unforgettable journeys to qualifying for the Senior Open Championship — moments that turned lifelong golfers into major championship competitors.

From last-minute entries and one-round qualifiers, to standing on practice ranges beside legends like Colin Montgomerie, Tom Watson, Corey Pavin, Christy O’Connor Jnr, and more — this is what happens when opportunity meets belief.

Kenny entered Senior Open qualifying almost on a whim after turning 50 — no expectations, minimal preparation, and no caddie arranged. One great round at Southport & Ainsdale changed everything.

Highlights:
• Entered qualifying “just for a laugh”
• Finished 3rd in qualifying
• First-ever seniors event was the Senior Open at Royal Birkdale
• Practiced between Montgomerie and Corey Pavin
• Met Tom Watson — his childhood hero
• Learned first hand how narrow the margins are at the top level

Kenny’s Reflection:
“I went in just hoping not to embarrass myself — and I regret that. I wish I’d been braver.”

John’s journey is one of resilience. After completely losing his game in his 40s, a simple swing thought reignited his love for golf — and ultimately led to qualifying for the Senior Open at Royal Portrush.

Highlights:
• Lost his game completely — nearly quit golf
• Rediscovered his swing by accident on the range
• Qualified at Portrush after finishing +3
• Practiced alongside Isao Aoki, Christy O’Connor Jnr, and Tom Watson
• Played in front of Open-sized crowds
• Experienced the full reality of championship pressure

John’s Reflection:
“They’re not superheroes — just great golfers who treat everyone the same.”

Big Takeaway:
You don’t need a perfect journey — just belief, persistence, and the courage to take your chance when it appears.

Why This Matters:
These stories prove that golf can still deliver once-in-a-lifetime moments — at any age, from any background.

🎧 Full episode available now
📍 Follow on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024

#LinkedByGolf #SeniorOpen #GolfStories #AmateurGolf #ScottishGolf #GolfDreams #TomWatson #Montgomerie #OpenChampionship #NeverTooLate

After 15 years on the tour, Alastair Forsyth shares his journey from professional golfer to coach. In this episode, he talks about why he chose coaching over travel-heavy roles, his approach to helping golfers of all levels, and how his experience on tour informs his teaching.

Highlights include:

• Transitioning from tour life to coaching.

• The importance of simplicity in swing advice.

• Adapting lessons for beginners, amateurs, and top players.

• Memorable moments, like helping an 85-year-old golfer keep enjoying the game.

• The rewards of seeing players succeed and stay engaged with golf.

• Exciting news: Ally has just been nominated for Coach of the Year!

  
  

Follow us on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024

In this episode, Alan Tait recounts two unforgettable moments in his golf career at Carnoustie. First, he shares the story behind his incredible 8-under-par 64 at the championship course in 1994—a course record that stood for 23 years. Alan describes the precision, focus, and composure that made that round possible, emphasizing how it was about smart play rather than miraculous shots.

Just a year later, Alan had the surreal experience of playing a practice round at Carnoustie with Masters champion Ben Crenshaw and a young Tiger Woods, who had just won the US Amateur. He reflects on his nerves, the generosity and mentorship of these legends, and his first impressions of Tiger—predicting his future dominance long before the world did.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the moments that define a golf career, highlighting skill, opportunity, and unforgettable experiences on one of the game’s toughest courses.

Highlights:

• Shooting 8-under-par 64 at Carnoustie in 1994, a course record that lasted 23 years.

• The calm, methodical approach Alan took to achieve perfection on a world-class course.

• Playing with Ben Crenshaw and Tiger Woods during a practice round a year later.

• First impressions of Tiger Woods and predicting his future success.

• Reflections on pressure, focus, and memorable career-defining moments.

Key Quote:
"If I could put that round in a jam jar and bottle it, I would. That feeling is what golf is all about." — Alan Tait

Listen to this episode for:

• A behind-the-scenes look at a historic round at Carnoustie.

• Insight into playing with legends like Crenshaw and Woods.

• Inspiration for golfers and sports fans about focus, opportunity, and making the most of special moments.

Linked By Golf Podcast
📸 Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024

Alan Tait
📸 Instagram: @golfprotait