next on the tee

In Part 2 of Episode 48, I'm joined by 1978 PGA Champion John Mahaffey.

John takes us back to his incredible comeback at the 1978 PGA Championship at Oakmont, where he rallied from 7 strokes down with 14 holes to play to defeat Tom Watson. He also reflects on his memories of Arnold Palmer in honor of what would have been Arnie’s 95th birthday. John shares his thoughts on the current fractured state of the Tours and how things might have been different if Deane Beman were still Commissioner. We also discuss his time at the University of Houston, where they won multiple national championships during his college career.

In Part 2 of Episode 48, I'm joined by two incredible guests: our Resident Director of Instruction, Tom Patri, and New York Times bestselling author, Tom Coyne.

TP is currently on a bucket-list golf trip in New York, playing some of the most renowned courses in the country, and we get to live vicariously through him. He also shares his fond memories of "The King" on what would have been Arnold Palmer’s 95th birthday, including why he named his son after Arnie and Palmer's touching reaction. Plus, we dive into Scottie Scheffler’s record-breaking season, Jim Furyk’s Presidents Cup captain picks, and how coaching in golf has evolved since TP’s early playing days.

Tom Coyne, one of the premier golf authors and journalists of our time, joins me as well. His novel, A Gentleman's Game, was named one of the top 25 sports books of all time by the Philadelphia Daily News. He’s also penned several New York Times bestsellers like A Course Called Ireland, A Course Called Scotland, and A Course Called America. In this episode, he shares stories from these unforgettable journeys, talks about the prestigious award named in his honor, and gives us a glimpse into his podcast, The Golfer’s Journal.

In Part 2 of Episode 47, I'm thrilled to welcome back The Confidence Doctor, Dr. Bob Winters, along with Chris Sheehan, the Head Golf Professional at the Pittsburgh Field Club and a longtime friend of the show.

Dr. Bob Winters recently explored Alaska, returning with captivating stories that offer insights into golf, highlighting lessons in patience and perseverance. He’ll share the remarkable experiences from his Alaskan adventure.

Chris Sheehan, who has held Head Golf Professional roles at prestigious courses like Oak Hill, Inverness, and Lebanon Country Club, is now at the Pittsburgh Field Club. Chris will recount his journey through the golf world, delve into the rich history of the Pittsburgh Field Club, discuss the influential designers behind its layout, and explore the rivalries among notable Pittsburgh clubs such as Oakmont, Fox Chapel, and Allegheny Country Club.

In Part 1 of Episode 47, I’m joined by two remarkable guests: Jonathan Yarwood, a Top 100 Golf Magazine Instructor, and Tom Purtzer, one of my all-time favorite guests, a tremendous player who enjoyed success over four decades.

Jonathan Yarwood, a Golf Magazine Top 100 Instructor and the Director of Instruction at Alpine Country Club in New Jersey, has worked with major champions like Michael Campbell and Nelly Korda, as well as winners across almost every Tour. We dive into Michael Campbell's career and discuss why he is so underrated. Jonathan also recounts the memorable day he accompanied Michael Campbell to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange after his 2005 US Open victory. Additionally, we talk about unqualified swing advice circulating on social media, and Jonathan shares a useful tip to improve your putting.

Tom Purtzer offers his insights on the Tour Championship, speculates on if the Pro game might not be splinted the way it is if Deane Beman were still Commissioner, reminisces about late-season 2 team tournaments he played in, and reflects on his time playing in the Gerald Ford Invitational Pro-Am.

In Part 2 of Episode 46, I'm joined by Golf Magazine Top 100 Instructor Scott Munroe.

Scott Munroe came highly recommended by another Top 100 Instructor and guest on the show Jeff Smith. Just like when James Hong joined me, when Jeff Smith says you gotta have this guy on the show, you have this guy on the show.

Scott is from Indiana and found early success in his career playing in Australia. In this episode, he reflects on his experiences down under and shares some fantastic stories about his time with Bernhard Langer and working with Jimmy Connors. We also get a rare look inside one of the nation’s premier country clubs, Nantucket Golf Club. Scott offers valuable tips on improving driver contact, identifies our most common swing flaw, and gives advice on how to hit better pitch shots using our bellies. Finally, we learn about what's sure to be a smash at next year's PGA Merchandise Show, "2 Hoosiers & a Hong."

In Part 1 of Episode 46, I’m joined by world-renowned instructor Tom Patri and the toughest man I’ve ever met, Tim Simpson.

This week, TP and I dive into the Tour Championship, with a focus on Keegan Bradley’s remarkable journey. Keegan barely made it into last week’s BMW Championship at Castle Rock, entering the tournament ranked 50th—just inside the Top 50 in the FedEx Cup standings. Not only did he secure his spot, but he also went on to win, catapulting himself to 4th place with a real shot at winning the entire championship. We’ll explore the possibility of Keegan playing in the Presidents Cup and even serving as a player-captain in next year’s Ryder Cup. Plus, we’ll discuss the LPGA’s Player of the Year race.

Tim Simpson is a legendary ball striker and perhaps the strongest person I’ve ever known. He’s faced multiple back surgeries, Lyme disease, neurological issues caused by Lyme disease, brain surgery, and, most recently, one of the rarest forms of cancer in the world. Despite it all, Tim never complained and overcame every challenge. In this episode, you’ll hear his incredible story, including the time he played in a Pro-Am with Michael J. Fox, and his thoughts on what’s next for Keegan Bradley.

In this special bonus segment, I’m thrilled to be joined by two incredible actors and stars of The West Wing, Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack.

As a HUGE fan of The West Wing, I’m excited to take the show off the course with these talented ladies. Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of hosting Melissa Fitzgerald, who portrayed Carole Fitzpatrick. During that episode, she gave us a teaser about a behind-the-scenes book she was co-writing with fellow cast member Mary McCormack, who played Deputy National Security Advisor Kate Harper. That book, titled What's Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, has since been released and has become a New York Times Bestseller.

In our conversation, you’ll hear the fascinating story of how the book was conceived over cake and drinks at Alison Janney’s house. We also discuss the show’s enduring legacy 25 years later, its call to service, the powerful impact of the “In Excelsis Deo” episode, and the key episodes they chose to highlight. Melissa and Mary also share what it was like to work with Aaron Sorkin, the culture Martin Sheen established from day one, the loss of John Spencer, and the epic prank wars between Bradley Whitford and Josh Malina. Bradley even reflects on how, no matter what else they achieve in their careers, The West Wing will always be the first line in their obituaries.

I highly recommend picking up this beautifully written book—it’s a fantastic read and is available wherever books are sold.

In Episode 44 I'm extremely blessed to get a return visit from America's Caddie Michael Collins.

Michael is one of those remarkable individuals you’re lucky to encounter, not just in the golf community, but in life in general. His talents are truly limitless. He began as an outstanding comedian and evolved into a top-notch caddie, broadcaster, and now, you can add photographer to his impressive resume.

In this episode, you'll hear Michael’s insights on who should be named PGA Tour Player of the Year, his memorable experience playing Augusta National, some of his favorite photographs—including the one he wants to be buried with—and his thoughts on the powerful Mike Tomlin video about the difference between players who are capable and those who are willing.

In this special episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by Duane Horton, Charlie Rymer, Bill Bergin, and Rees Jones to discuss the creation of The Keep, the stunning new course co-designed by Bill and Rees.

The Keep is the latest addition to the McLemore property, complementing the existing Highlands course. This project holds special significance for Duane Horton, who has a deep connection to the area, having grown up at the base of McLemore Cove. Duane’s vision brought this land to life, and with the expertise of Bill Bergin and Rees Jones, they’ve crafted two of the finest courses in the country.

Charlie Rymer, known for his time on the PGA Tour and as a host on The Golf Channel, has also played a key role in this endeavor. Charlie is also from the area and helped bring this masterpiece to life. As the Executive Vice President and Ambassador for the resort, Charlie has applied his playing experience and keen understanding of what golfers seek in a destination resort. Together, these four men have created a resort that is sure to become a top destination on golfers’ bucket lists worldwide.

The Keep is their latest masterpiece—a breathtaking course featuring cliff edge holes with panoramic vistas from every point on the property. Designed as a links-style course with multiple tee setups, The Keep offers a unique experience each time you play.

In this episode, you’ll hear from all four of these visionaries as they share their insights, stories, and enthusiasm for the project. They’ll discuss how The Keep came together, the challenges they faced, the course’s routing, and what makes this course truly stand out from any other you’ve ever played.

In Part 2 of Episode 42, I'm joined by two former Pro Bowl quarterbacks, Gus Frerotte and Chris Miller.

Gus Frerotte, who hails from Ford City, just outside of Pittsburgh, kicks off the conversation by sharing his thoughts on the Steelers' quarterback situation, particularly the dynamic of having both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Gus draws on his own experience from when he was drafted by the Commanders as a 7th round pick, the same year they selected Heath Shuler with the #3 overall pick. He offers his perspective on whether Pittsburgh's situation can succeed. We also discuss the skyrocketing salaries of quarterbacks and wide receivers, the evolution of the game since his playing days, his memorable conversation with Matthew McConaughey, and some of his favorite Pro-Am tournaments.

Chris Miller, an Oregon Duck Hall of Famer, was a 1st round draft pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 1987. After retiring from the NFL, he went on to serve as the Offensive Coordinator for the Houston Roughnecks in the XFL. We begin by discussing the new UFL and its potential to develop players overlooked by NFL teams. Chris shares his thoughts on the Falcons drafting Michael Penix in the 1st round after signing Kirk Cousins to a massive free-agent contract. He also provides insights on his Oregon Ducks, who are entering the college football season ranked #3. Finally, we hear about his memorable round of golf with his father at Augusta National and his participation in the annual Mike Bellotti MDA Golf Tournament.