The Golf Sit Down

By Operation 36 GolfSports Education Golf

The Golf Sit Down episodes

January 27 #23 - Junior Golf Q&A: OP 36, AJGA Tournaments & Managing Emotions
In this Golf Sit Down Podcast Q&A episode, PGA Professionals Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson answer real questions from golf coaches, parents, and junior golfers.
We break down:
Why junior golf improvement takes time
How OP 36 creates a clear development roadmap
How many tournaments junior golfers should actually play
Why scores are not linear (and why that’s normal)
The powerful Rule of 20 in junior golf development
How parents can help juniors manage emotions during tournaments
Whether you’re a junior golfer with college aspirations, a parent navigating tournament golf, or a coach managing expectations, this episode delivers practical, experience-based advice backed by real data.
📌 Topics include OP 36 levels, AJGA vs local tournaments, emotional control, patience in coaching, and long-term development strategies.
👉 Drop your questions in the comments — future Q&A episodes are coming!
🧢 Comment "At Least 20" for your chance to win a free OP36 Hat!
The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf
Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Q&A Format
00:44 Coaching Young Golfers: Managing Expectations
05:19 Navigating Junior Golf Tournaments
12:39 Supporting Emotional Junior Golfers
#juniorgolf
#AtLeast20
#Operation36
#OP36
#GolfCoaching
#JuniorGolfDevelopment
#CollegeGolf
#YouthGolf
#GolfParents
#GolfPodcast
#PGAGolf
#JuniorGolfJourney
#GolfSitDown
19 min
January 13 #22 - How to Coach Kids in Golf Without Burning Them Out | Kristi Roach
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, we’re joined by Kristi Roach, PGA of Canada professional, 2024 PGA Atlantic Teacher of the Year, Operation 36 coach, and former school teacher.
Kristi shares her unique journey from college golf to classroom teaching to full-time golf coaching, and how her background as a middle school teacher and mom shapes the way she develops junior golfers today.
We dive deep into:
-How to properly develop junior golfers long-term
-Why Operation 36 works so well for kids and parents
-Coaching vs parenting on the golf course
-Early specialization vs multi-sport development
-Helping kids handle frustration, emotions, and pressure
-The importance of nutrition and hydration during tournaments
-Why coaches should still play and compete
-How parents can best support young golfers without overstepping
This episode is packed with practical advice for golf parents, coaches, and junior players looking to build confidence, resilience, and a love for the game.
📍 Follow Kristi Roach on Instagram @kristi_roach
📍 Learn more about Operation 36 junior golf development
📍 Perfect for parents, coaches, and competitive junior golfers
🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on long-term golf development, coaching, and player growth.
The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf
Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann
Chapters
00:00 Christie's Journey in Golf Coaching
03:44 A Day in the Life of a Golf Coach
13:20 The Importance of Finding the Right Coach
14:04 Classroom Management Techniques for Coaches
18:36 Seth's Journey in Coaching
19:33 Characteristics of Successful Young Golfers
21:16 The Importance of Peer Influence in Golf
22:26 Navigating Motivation and Commitment in Young Athletes
27:43 Coping with Emotional Upset in Young Golfers
33:37 Nutrition and Hydration for Young Golfers
39:27 The Role of Coaches in Continuous Learning
#JuniorGolf
#Operation36
#GolfParents
#YouthGolf
#GolfCoaching
#JuniorGolfDevelopment
#GolfInstruction
#GolfPodcast
#WomensGolf
#PGAofCanada
#GolfCoach
#YouthSports
#GolfLife
#GrowingTheGame
47 min
December 30, 2025 #21 - Parents & Coaches: Stop Wasting Money on Golf Lessons | Dan Bubany, PGA
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, we sit down with Dan Bubany, PGA Professional, to break down what actually leads to long-term golf improvement — and why traditional one-hour golf lessons often fail players, parents, and coaches.
Dan shares his journey from broadcast journalism to full-time golf coaching, and explains why group coaching, on-course training, and results-based development outperform private instruction in nearly every way. From junior golf development to adult amateurs struggling to break 90, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
We cover:
Why group coaching creates faster improvement
The difference between a golf coach and an instructor
How parents can best support junior golfers (without pushing)
Why training on the driving range doesn’t translate to the golf course
How accountability, process, and results all work together
What traits the best golf students share
How coaches can shift toward modern, sustainable coaching models
If you’re a parent of a junior golfer, a golf coach, or a player frustrated with slow progress, this episode will challenge everything you think you know about golf instruction.
📩 Learn more about Dan Bubany:
Instagram: @danbubanygolf
Website: danbubanygolf.com
🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on long-term golf development, coaching, and player growth.
The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Host: Ryan Dailey, PGA @ryandaileygolf
Co-Host: Seth Thompson, PGA @seth_thompsongolf
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann @a.j._reimann

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background of Dan Bubany
00:13 Transitioning from Broadcasting to Golf Coaching
04:53 The Importance of Group Coaching in Golf
09:53 Engaging Parents in the Coaching Process
14:33 Cultivating Intellectual Curiosity in Players
19:14 Supporting Junior Golfers and Their Development
24:11 The Importance of Accountability in Coaching
27:05 Results-Based Coaching: Balancing Outcomes and Process
32:02 Navigating Coaching Relationships: When to Move On
35:40 The Future of Coaching: Group Dynamics and Community
39:33 Transforming Golf Instruction: From Lessons to Play
44:01 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy
#GolfCoaching
#JuniorGolf
#GolfDevelopment
#GolfParents
#GolfPodcast
#ModernGolf
#GroupGolfCoaching
#PGACoach
#GolfInstruction
#Break90
#YouthGolf
#GolfTraining
45 min
December 04, 2025 #20 - Ben Polland PGA: The Mindset, Coaching & Competition Formula for Better Golf
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan and Seth sit down with Ben Polland, PGA, Director of Golf at Shooting Star (WY) and reigning 2024 PGA Professional Champion. Ben shares his incredible journey from late-blooming high school golfer to competing on the Korn Ferry Tour, PGA TOUR events, and representing the PGA of America internationally.
We dig into:
• Why competing often is the fastest way to grow
• The mental game shift that changed Ben’s career
• How to pick a great coach (and when to move on)
• Why junior golfers MUST play more tournaments
• What Ben learned playing with Scottie Scheffler
• How to practice with purpose — even while working full-time
If you're a junior golfer, parent, coach, or competitive golf nerd, this episode is packed with insights you can use TODAY.
👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more elite-level conversations!
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
⏱️ Chapter Markers
00:00 – Intro: Welcome Ben Pollin, PGA
00:09 – Ben’s background & growing up in Minnesota
02:00 – Choosing golf over baseball
03:00 – Why Ben chose Campbell University
04:10 – Early struggles & learning modern instruction
06:00 – Internships at Sebonack & Deepdale
07:30 – First major success & qualifying for nationals
09:40 – Turning pro & chasing the tour dream
11:00 – Competing to get better
14:00 – Playing with Scottie Scheffler
17:00 – Learning from elite players
19:00 – When self-belief finally clicked
21:00 – Pressure on tour vs. freedom now
23:00 – Managing a team while competing
24:30 – The importance of good coaching
27:20 – How to know if coaching is working
30:20 – Grip changes & experimentation
32:38 – Junior golf challenges & building programs
33:49 – How tournaments shape young players
35:49 – The Catherine Andino story
37:30 – How many tournaments juniors should play
38:52 – Mental freedom & pressure
39:50 – Why nerves are GOOD
41:38 – Big takeaways for parents & juniors
42:47 – Growth & comfort don’t coexist
43:26 – Closing thoughts & gratitude
#GolfPodcast #PGA #BenPollin #GolfTips #JuniorGolf #GolfImprovement #PGAProfessional #GolfMindset #GolfTraining #CompetitionGolf #KornFerryTour #GolfParents #GolfJourney
44 min
November 20, 2025 How Properly Fit Clubs Transform Your Swing | Henry-Griffitts x Op36
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson sit down with Randall Henry, CEO of Henry-Griffitts, one of golf’s most respected custom-fitting companies.
Randall shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories from decades in the golf industry — from tour players in the 1980s to revolutionizing how juniors and beginners get fit today.
We break down:
Why most golfers are using clubs that are too strong
How ill-fitting clubs create lifelong swing flaws
Why lie angle matters more than you think
How Henry-Griffitts and Op36 are reinventing junior club fitting
Personal stories from tour ranges, Bill Russell's clubs, and what REALLY happens with off-the-rack sets
If you're a parent, coach, or golfer wanting to improve faster, this episode is packed with insights that will completely change the way you think about equipment.
Check out the new Operation 36 Golf Clubs Here
https://op36shop.com/products/clubs
🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with top coaches and educators shaping the future of golf learning.
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
#GolfPodcast #ClubFitting #HenryGriffitts #Op36 #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GolfEquipment #GolfTips #CustomFitting #GolfSwing
48 min
November 06, 2025 Fall in Love with the Process | Golf Coaching Insights with Ty Gosnell
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson welcome Ty Gosnell, founder of The Players Golf Academy of Charleston and Director of Instruction at Rivertown Country Club.
Ty shares his journey from a multi-sport athlete to a seasoned PGA coach, the lessons he’s learned about player development, burnout, and the importance of helping kids fall in love with the grind—not just the game.
He discusses:
How playing multiple sports builds better golfers
Why travel sports can lead to burnout
The key ages when young golfers struggle to stay engaged
Coaching strategies to build passion and creativity
His philosophy on learning through fun and process over outcome
Whether you’re a golf parent, coach, or player, this episode is full of wisdom about long-term player development and keeping the game fun.
👉 Connect with Ty Gosnell:
📍 Instagram: @tygosnellgolf
📧 [email protected]
🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with top coaches and educators shaping the future of golf learning.
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
⏱️ Chapter Markers
00:00 – Intro: Welcome & Guest Intro
00:35 – Ty’s Journey from Multi-Sport Athlete to Golf Coach
03:28 – Discovering Operation 36
05:33 – The Problem with Travel Sports & Burnout
09:49 – Learning to Love the Game Again
10:57 – The Two Hardest Ages for Golfers (9–11 & 15–17)
13:24 – First Car & Early Coaching Lessons
15:00 – Sparking Passion in Players
18:22 – Why Ty Hires Tour Players as Coaches
23:40 – What Tour Players Do Differently
25:15 – The Story of “Elizabeth” & Patience in Coaching
30:00 – Falling in Love with the Process
33:50 – Top Third of the Leaderboard Mindset
38:10 – Coaching Philosophy: Swing vs Hit
43:19 – Making Practice Fun at Every Age
47:20 – Trash Can Targets & Gamifying Learning
48:41 – How to Connect with Ty Gosnell
50:15 – Final Thoughts & Rubbermaid Challenge
#Operation36Golf #GolfPodcast #TyGosnell #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GolfParentTips #PGAProfessional #GolfDevelopment #GolfTraining #GrowTheGame #GolfMindset #MasterTheMundane #CharlestonGolf #GolfPassion
51 min
October 02, 2025 David Orr: The Science & Art of Putting | Grab your notebooks!
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, hosts Ryan Dailey, Seth Thompson, and AJ Reimann welcome world-renowned coach David Orr.
With over 30 years of coaching experience and 16 years of putting research, David has worked with more than 85 Tour players — including Justin Rose, Suzanne Pettersen, Paul Casey, and multiple Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup players.
We dive deep into:
How juniors actually develop golf skills on the course, not the range
The importance of reps, emotional regulation, and “fear loops” in golf
Lessons David learned coaching college players, tour players, and juniors
Why most kids’ putters are too heavy, too long, or just plain wrong
The mental game difference between playing and performing
Genetics, reps, and the hidden factors that shape golf development
This episode is a must-listen for parents, coaches, and golfers who want to understand the real process of long-term player development.
📢 Learn more about David Orr:
🔗 Flatstick Academy – [https://flatstickacademy.com/]
🎙 Follow Operation 36 Golf:
✅ Subscribe for more conversations with leaders in junior golf & coaching
🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
⏱️ CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 – Intro & Welcome David Orr
01:00 – Campbell Days & Mentorship in Golf Coaching
02:30 – Why Juniors Must Learn Golf on the Course, Not the Range
05:00 – No Gimmies in Operation 36: The Importance of Holing Out
06:20 – Four Environments of Learning (Mat, Practice Green, Course, Tournament)
08:30 – David’s Phases: Player → Coach → Putting Specialist
10:30 – Early Playing Career & Transition into Coaching
13:50 – Working with Justin Rose & Coaching on Tour
15:00 – Why Putting is an “Arranged Marriage”
17:00 – Trauma, Fear Loops & Mental Blocks in Putting
20:00 – Mechanics vs Skill: Why Stroke Fixes Aren’t Enough
22:00 – Parents, Pressure & Junior Golf Development
26:00 – Parenting Lessons from Sports & Soccer Coaching
28:30 – Fine Motor Coordination & Putter Fitting for Juniors
32:00 – Why Most Junior Putters Are Too Heavy or Too Long
35:00 – Aim, Roll, Stop → Face, Head, Shaft Fundamentals
38:00 – Why True Skills Must Travel (Different Grasses & Greens)
44:00 – Acclimating Quickly: Stories from Tour Practice Rounds
50:00 – Mental Skills: Emotional Regulation, Visualization & Recall
55:00 – Coaching vs Teaching: David’s Philosophy
1:01:00 – KISS Method: Fitting Junior Golf Putters
1:08:00 – When Kids Should Start Seeing a Putting Specialist
1:12:00 – Building Juniors “Different” from Everyone Else
1:15:00 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways
#Operation36Golf #DavidOrr #FlatstickAcademy #PuttingCoach #GolfPodcast #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GolfDevelopment #GolfParents #GolfTips #PGA #Putting
1 hr 19 min
September 25, 2025 "Maggie Simons on Youth Golf Development, Competition & Creating a Positive Culture"
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down Podcast, we chat with Maggie Simons, Director of Instruction at Oregon Golf Club, about her incredible journey from a late start in junior golf to playing Division I at Wake Forest, competing professionally, and ultimately becoming one of the most respected coaches in the Pacific Northwest.
Maggie shares her insights on:
⛳ Why early specialization can hurt more than it helps
🏀 The value of multi-sport participation for juniors
📈 How to manage expectations through growth spurts and development
💡 Creating a fun, welcoming culture that retains golfers for life
🏆 Lessons from playing in an LPGA Tour event and how competition shapes players
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Coaching parents through the ups and downs of junior golf
Whether you’re a coach, parent, or player, this episode will inspire you to focus on what truly matters—developing a lifelong love for the game.
👍 Like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who wants to grow the game and support the next generation of golfers.
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Where to find Maggie Simons
https://www.instagram.com/msimons21?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MWswamRqZWN5YW03Zw==
Chapters
00:00 Investing in Quality Gear
00:32 Maggie's Journey in Golf
03:45 The Importance of Diverse Sports
06:50 Managing Growth and Expectations
09:45 Emotional Development in Golf
21:48 Mindset and Performance
25:06 Navigating Competition in Youth Golf
31:32 The Path to College Golf: Insights and Strategies
37:13 Finding Balance: Golf as a Passion, Not an Identity
40:22 Creating a Fun and Supportive Golf Environment
49:40 Reflections on Competition and Community Support
55:03 Embracing Technology and Future Aspirations
#GolfPodcast #MaggieSimons #YouthGolf #GolfDevelopment #Operation36 #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GrowthMindset #PositiveCulture #WomenInGolf #WakeForestGolf #GolfParents #GolfCompetition #GolfJourney #GolfCommunity
59 min
September 11, 2025 Building Golf Culture & Developing Juniors | Andreas Kali on Long-Term Coaching Success
In this episode of The Golf Sit Down Podcast, we sit down with Andreas Kali, head coach of the Danish Junior Golf Academy. Andreas shares his journey from junior golf in Denmark to competing in college and turning professional, before finding his true passion in coaching.
We discuss the importance of mentorship, group training, player accountability, culture, and long-term development. Andreas emphasizes how fostering a love for the game, rather than focusing only on early results, creates players who not only succeed on tour but also stay connected to golf for life.
From stories about coaching elite players like Rasmus Nygaard-Peterson (12th at the U.S. Open) to lessons on building positive environments and handling parental expectations, this conversation is packed with insights for coaches, parents, and players alike.
👉 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share with someone who could benefit from these coaching insights!
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Where to find Andreas Kali
https://andreaskaligolf.com/
https://www.instagram.com/andreaskaligolf/?hl=en
Chapters
00:00 The Challenges of Professional Golf
00:34 Coaching Philosophy and Student Empowerment
09:01 Empowering Young Golfers
10:14 Choosing the Right Coach
11:53 The Importance of Player Engagement
12:59 Identifying Successful Traits in Players
13:38 The Role of Parental Support
18:48 The Pressure of Expectations
20:44 The Value of Group Training
26:56 Balancing Individual and Group Instruction
28:13 Cultivating Passion for the Game
32:40 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy
37:52 Managing Player Emotions and Expectations
41:01 Building Resilience in Young Athletes
42:41 Shifts in Coaching Techniques Over Time
45:16 Holistic Approach to Player Development
47:01 Creating a Positive Training Environment
48:24 Future Aspirations in Coaching

#GolfPodcast #YouthGolf #GolfCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #GrowthMindset #JuniorGolf #Operation36 #GolfCulture #AndreasKali #GolfAcademy #Mentorship #LongTermDevelopment #PositiveCoaching
58 min
August 14, 2025 Innovative Approaches to Junior Golf Instruction
In this conversation, Wendi Wiese shares her journey in golf, from her early experiences to her innovative teaching methods at Texas Team Junior Golf. She emphasizes the importance of play in learning, emotional intelligence in coaching, and the role of parents in supporting young golfers. Wendi provides valuable insights for aspiring players and discusses how to foster a positive learning environment that encourages self-discovery and resilience.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Test Call Feedback
00:28 Long-Term Development in Golf
00:55 Wendi's Journey in Golf
08:12 Traditional vs. Modern Golf Instruction
10:51 The Importance of Community in Golf
12:57 Coaching with Constraints
19:59 Choices in Golf Practice Games
21:24 Creating a Supportive Environment for Young Athletes
23:46 The Importance of Consistency in Practice
26:20 Emotional Intelligence in Sports
34:22 Learning from Failure and Parental Support

Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Where to find Wendi Wiese
https://www.instagram.com/coachwendiwiese?igsh=aGc3bGxrNTdxbXQx
50 min

About The Golf Sit Down

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Join us as we explore the world of long-term development for golfers. What lessons can we learn from discussions with players, parents, and the best coaches in the world to help you on your journey?