Slice with Brian Bushlach

He's one of the icons of the golf industry, and also one of the most down-to-earth guys you'll meet anywhere. John Ashworth redefined "the look" of golf not once, but twice with his namesake Ashworth brand and today's popular combo of California surf, skateboard, golf & lifestyle brand Linksoul. In this episode, John shares why he decided to donate to Feeding San Diego, his continuing efforts to make the game of golf more fun, and reflections on the past, the present and future of the game, on and off the course.

In the midst of a global pandemic and with America in crisis, the recent re-opening of Bandon Dunes and opening day at Sheep Ranch provide us with a welcome escape in the midst of a year that's been unthinkable, to say the least. In this episode, Bandon Dunes Director of Resort Operations Jeff Simonds joins Brian to recap the first-ever closure, maintenance, and effort to re-open America's #1 destination golf resort. All that, in the midst of the countdown to the most anticipated new course in the country, Sheep Ranch, which officially opened today. 

The Seattle-area and Washington State were early adopters to stay-at-home orders, and unfortunately that included all golf courses. Fortunately, Phase 1 of the state's re-opening included golf courses, with precautions in place to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. In this episode, Chambers Bay GM Zac Keener joins Brian to discuss the shutdown, the restart, and the lush fairways and greens at Chambers Bay, in the best shape ever!

Author and golf insider Michael Bamberger is back to share his latest work, "The Second Life of Tiger Woods". Most takes on Tiger focus on what he was able to overcome physically. Bamberger's in-depth reporting takes a different approach, delving into Tiger's mind where he finds peace, patience and the mental balance to return to glory. And this time, Tiger's triumph is something we can all relate to and celebrate.

Masters week moves to November (fingers crossed) and we ponder what a Tiger vs Phil with Friends duel might look like with golf insider Michael Bamberger, author of "The Second Life of Tiger Woods". Also, Brian & Michael reminisce about the good old days when Sports Illustrated arrived in the mailbox every week and how Golf Magazine is luring readers with it's brilliant package of style & substance.

Few clubs in America are as iconic as Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando. As the PGA Tour revisits Arnie's Florida home this week, we welcome Bay Hill GM Don Emery, one of the industry's most popular and respected leaders. Don has led high profile clubs including Winter Park's Interlachen Country Club and The Riviera Country Club with his down to earth personality and gracious demeanor. Don joins us to share what makes Bay Hill so special, how he and his team keep raising the bar, and preview the 100th Anniversary celebration planned for Arnold Palmer's Latrobe Country Club.

It's all about the golf at Bandon Dunes. But Bandon wouldn't be Bandon without the people. The caddies, our friends in the pro shops, the excellent service staff, and Shoe greeting us upon every return. When it comes to instruction, Grant Rogers will educate you- not only about golf, but life. In this episode, Brian spends time with one of the most interesting people in the game today. "The Jedi of Bandon" shares his wisdom, including why bringing your putter inside every night will automatically improve your game.

Can Bandon become even better? The answer in unequivocally YES. Sheep Ranch opens on June 1st, and we haven't experienced this much anticipation since Old Mac debuted at Bandon a decade ago. It's been an amazing 20 year transformation for this iconic setting on Oregon's southern coast, where no one outside of Mike Keiser could've imagined it. Brian welcomes Bandon's Michael Chupka to walk & talk us through the newest 18.

As Bandon Dunes celebrates its 20th Anniversary, there's no doubt that golf is the draw. But it's the experience and the people that keep us coming back. Businessman and visionary Mike Keiser made his dream a reality here, but he shuns the limelight and allows his people to shine. The first smiling face we see upon arrival is usually Bob Gaspar, affectionately known as "Shoe". In this episode, Brian sits down with Shoe to share his story, the early days when Bandon Dunes first opened, and how he became the hero and beloved Mayor of Bandon Dunes.

Easily the most recognizable golf course in the world, the Kapalua Plantation Course was due for a refresh after almost 30 years of entertaining tour pros and weekend warriors vacationing in Maui. Beloved NBC Sports & Golf Channel commentator Mark Rolfing joins Brian to give us a hole-by-hole, play-by-play on the updates to this iconic golf course, making it tougher for the pros, and easier for the rest of us! Mark also shares how he became "Mr. Hawaii", and has been an ambassador for this island paradise for over 40 years.