Those Weekend Golf Guys

(00:01) Avoiding Golf Game Ruiners This chapter is all about how external factors like extreme heat and internal factors like negative thoughts can ruin a golf game. We discuss how the recent heatwave across the Midwest and East Coast has made playing outdoors unbearable and potentially dangerous, especially for those with health conditions. To counteract this, indoor golf facilities have become increasingly popular, offering technology that simulates outdoor conditions with impressive accuracy. We also touch on the mental aspects of golf, exploring how bad thoughts and poor self-awareness can derail even the most consistent players. Our goal is to help golfers recognize these challenges and find ways to get back on track, whether it’s by avoiding harsh weather conditions or seeking help to restore their confidence and swing. (10:22) Avoiding Bad Golf Swing Advice This chapter focuses on the pitfalls that can sabotage your golf game, highlighting the dangers of relying too heavily on social media for swing ad

(00:00) Weekend Golf Trip to Scotland This chapter features a lively conversation with Jeff Smith, a Golf Magazine Top 100 teacher, and returning guest Kelly Stenson, who shares her recent golfing adventure in Scotland with her 15-year-old son. We explore the joys of playing golf in new places, especially the bucket-list experience of playing in Scotland. Kelly emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with family on the golf course and encourages listeners to travel and explore new courses, whether abroad or within the United States. We reflect on the cherished memories made during such trips and the lasting impact they have on family bonds. (10:39) Scotland Golf Trip Highlights and Tips This chapter focuses on the joys and challenges of playing golf in windy conditions and the intricacies of planning golf trips with family versus fellow golfers. We share experiences of managing high winds on the golf course, the necessity of adapting one's game, and the importance of having the right equipment, lik

(00:01) Weekend Golf Guys - Desert Adventures This chapter takes us on a journey through the high desert of Arizona, where Jeff Smith shares his experiences on the golf course at Talking Rock, encountering unique wildlife such as lizards and roadrunners. We explore the geographical contrasts between Arizona and Colorado, highlighting the unexpected presence of mountains in a high desert landscape. We also recount humorous animal encounters, including a chameleon surprise in South Carolina. The chapter transitions to a memorable golf lesson where Jeff, against the odds, made an eagle on two consecutive holes at Otter Creek in Indiana. This remarkable feat during a playing lesson serves as a backdrop for discussing the challenges and excitement of the game. (10:02) Improving Your Golf Game Strategy This chapter explores the nuances of maintaining focus and composure in golf, especially when faced with erratic play. We share a personal anecdote about playing a solid round after a long hiatus and the joy of balan

(00:01) Preparing for a Golf Scramble This chapter takes us to the cool climes of Flagstaff, Arizona, where top 100 teacher Jeff Smith is enjoying teaching golf at 7,000 feet. We discuss the surprising weather contrasts in Arizona and how Flagstaff provides a refuge from the blistering heat found in places like Phoenix. I share my excitement about participating in an upcoming golf scramble in Huntsville, Alabama, organized to support a high school football team and hosted by former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Sammy Coates. The event is set to take place at the Redstone Arsenal military golf course, known for its impeccable condition. Reflecting on past interviews with athletes like Phil Simms, I contemplate my role in the scramble, suspecting I might serve as the comedic relief among former professional athletes. Jeff offers practical advice for preparation, emphasizing the importance of stretching to ensure a fluid swing during the game. (11:09) Navigating a Golf Scramble Challenge This chapter takes y

(00:00) Exploring Careers at Golf Courses This chapter explores the appealing prospect of working at a golf course, especially for retirees seeking a productive yet enjoyable way to spend their time. We discuss the various roles available, from mowing fairways to managing the finer details around the course, and highlight the perks like free golf and a sense of pride in maintaining the greens. The conversation touches on the types of tasks that retirees might find rewarding, emphasizing their reliability and attention to detail. Personal anecdotes illustrate how retirees, like my father, have found fulfillment and joy in such roles, demonstrating how a part-time job at a golf course can blend work and play seamlessly. (09:44) Hiring and Training at Golf Courses This chapter addresses both job seekers and golf course operators, providing valuable insights into working at a golf course. We highlight the importance of personality and charisma for roles such as starters, who not only manage tee times but also ser

(00:00) Weekend Golf Guys This chapter takes you on a journey through a golf-filled weekend with John Ashton and Jeff Smith. Jeff shares his recent adventures in Arizona, including a stop at the famous corner in Winslow. Meanwhile, I recount an enjoyable day of golf at the prestigious Polo Fields in Louisville with friends and family, where the course's impeccable condition and unique hybrid bluegrass stood out. Despite initial struggles, I embraced a positive mindset and overcame a challenging uphill par-three hole, turning a past nemesis into a conquered course feature. The conversation is lighthearted and full of camaraderie, with reflections on memorable shots and the beauty of the game. (12:25) Mindset of Former Athletes in Golf This chapter explores the unique transition from professional baseball to golf among retired athletes, highlighting the experiences of notable former players like Howard Kendrick, Kyle Lohse, and Mark Mulder. We discuss the surprising challenge many baseball players face when the

(00:01) Golf Course Challenges and Training This chapter brings you into a lively conversation about golf and the unique experiences that come with playing in different regions. We start with a discussion on the contrasting weather conditions between Arizona and the low country, highlighting the stark differences in humidity. The conversation then shifts to memorable golfing experiences, particularly at the distinctive Calusa Pines in Florida, where the terrain mimics Pinehurst with its impressive elevation changes and lush pine settings. We share anecdotes from the U.S. Open at Pinehurst, emphasizing the challenging nature of Donald Ross-designed courses with their notoriously difficult greens. Additionally, we spotlight young golfer Ava Bunker's recent performance at Pinehurst, navigating the notorious course with notable success despite its demanding conditions. Throughout, we touch on the evolution of golf course maintenance, particularly how advancements have made greens faster and more challenging, posi

(00:01) Powerful Golf Swing Techniques for Distance This chapter explores the importance of power in golf, emphasizing how crucial it is to utilize the ground effectively for better performance. Broadcasting from Talking Rock Ranch in Prescott, Arizona, we discuss the mechanics of power in the golf swing, explaining that it all starts from the ground up. By pushing against an immovable object like the ground, energy is generated and transferred through the body to the arms, enhancing the swing's speed and effectiveness. We highlight the common misconception that power is solely about body rotation, when in reality, timing the push against the ground is key. Through power schools and practical demonstrations, we explain how to harness this energy properly, ensuring that it is released at the right moment in the swing for maximum impact. (12:25) Swing Sequencing Tools for Golf This chapter focuses on the importance of proper sequencing in a golf swing and how it impacts energy transfer from the lower body throu

(00:00) Mastering Golf Scoring Techniques This chapter focuses on the nuances of scoring in golf, particularly emphasizing the short game and how to effectively handle different types of shots and lies on the course. We discuss the importance of understanding the slopes on which you find yourself and adjusting your body position to maintain stability and control. Techniques like the "firm handed scrape" are explored, offering practical advice on how to execute shots like the bump and run effectively. By establishing a firm base and aligning your shoulders with the slope, you can predict your club's landing spot more accurately, improving your overall performance on the greens. (13:39) Mastering Golf Short Game Techniques This chapter focuses on the nuances of hand and wrist movement in various physical activities, emphasizing the importance of finding a balance between stiffness and flexibility, referred to as the "Goldilocks" zone. We explore how touch and feel play a crucial role in task

(00:00) Indoor Golf Practice Techniques This chapter brings a lighthearted exchange about dogs and golf, as we share stories about our furry friends and how they intertwine with our lives. I talk about my dog Mulligan, a rescue who has become an essential part of our family, and we explore the touching notion of who truly rescues whom in a pet adoption. The conversation takes a fun turn as we discuss the unexpected challenges and joys of living with multiple dogs, including my grandson's decision to bring home two pit bulls and their puppies. On the golfing front, I recount my creative practice methods at home, like using a backyard for swings and even utilizing Nerf balls in the garage. We also touch on some golf tips, such as understanding ball flight, face direction, and club path to improve one's game, even if just practicing indoors. (12:11) Efficient Techniques for More Power This chapter explores how to hit a golf ball farther by focusing on efficiency and eliminating wasted energy. I discuss common mi

(00:00) Golf Knowledge and Teaching Strategies This chapter brings together a lively conversation about golf, featuring insights from two top 100 golf teachers. We share humorous anecdotes from the golf course, discussing the evolution of golf clubs and how past champions succeeded with simpler equipment. We also explore the sense of camaraderie and nostalgia within the golfing community, reflecting on friendships that pick up seamlessly even after years apart. Amidst the banter, there's a focus on adapting to modern technology in golf instruction, contrasting traditional golf schools with the rise of AI and home electronics. With humor and expertise, we navigate the intersections of golf tradition and innovation, all while appreciating the quirks of golfing culture and community. (12:19) Dog Health and Golf Techniques This chapter explores the intricacies of golf technique, particularly focusing on the importance of ball flight over aiming directly at a target. We discuss experiences with Hank Haney and the

(00:00) Golf Discussion With Joe Bosco This chapter takes a fascinating look at the mental and emotional aspects of golf with special guest Joe Bosco, a respected expert in human performance. We discuss how the mind can both enhance and inhibit physical performance on the golf course, emphasizing the importance of mental control and emotional management. Joe shares insights into how golfers can improve by integrating mental strategies with physical skills, transforming them into more complete players. We explore scenarios that test a golfer's mental resilience, like facing a challenging par three over water, and highlight the common tendency for golfers to get stuck in their heads, focusing too much on mechanics rather than trusting their skills. Through this engaging conversation, we aim to help golfers overcome mental obstacles and enhance their performance by aligning their mind and body. (06:57) Navigating Parental Pressure in Junior Golf This chapter addresses the pressing issue of parental pressure in y

(00:00) Golf Equipment and Club Fitting This chapter captures the essence of mountain golf at Pine Canyon Golf Club in Flagstaff, Arizona, highlighting the unique and entertaining features of the course, including the 19th hole—a challenging 88-yard par three with an island green that serves as a fun tiebreaker. We also discuss the evolving golf equipment landscape, specifically focusing on the increasing popularity and practicality of hybrid clubs for players of all ages and skill levels. A fascinating anecdote about a fellow golfer utilizing a Heavenwood—a 7-wood with a three-wood shaft—illustrates the benefits of hybrids, especially for those with varying clubhead speeds. This transition to hybrids is further exemplified by Fred Couples, who now favors them as he adapts his game with age. Overall, this chapter underscores how golfers are embracing innovative club technology to enhance their performance on the course. (12:58) Practice Tips for Golf Confidence This chapter focuses on enhancing your golf game

(00:01) Fairway Bunker Shots This chapter explores strategies for effectively getting out of fairway bunkers in golf. We discuss the importance of assessing the firmness of the sand and the technique of planting your back foot firmly to create a stable stance, allowing for a full, powerful swing without slipping. Additionally, we cover selecting the appropriate club based on the bunker lip and distance to the green, ensuring the club can clear the lip while aiming for the back edge of the green for optimal results. The focus is on understanding the conditions and adapting your approach to maintain control and maximize distance from the bunker. (13:03) Mastering Fairway Bunker Shots This chapter focuses on the strategies for successfully hitting golf shots from different types of bunkers, particularly fairway and greenside bunkers. We explore techniques for handling soft and firm sand conditions, emphasizing the importance of stance and club selection. The conversation highlights the differences in approach be

(00:01) Golf Tip This chapter is all about enhancing your putting game on the golf course. We discuss a fun and simple betting game to add pressure to your putting, where one putts earn you money from your friends, and three putts cost you. The beauty of putting is that anyone, regardless of age or strength, can excel. We explore how even a six-year-old or an 88-year-old could be a world-class putter. We also touch on some creative ways to line up your putts better, like using a marked 50-cent piece to improve your aim. This chapter offers tips to make your putting practice more engaging and effective, making sure that each putt counts not just for your score, but also for a bit of friendly competition. (14:25) Reading Slope for Accurate Putting This chapter takes us into the world of golf, specifically focusing on the science and strategy behind reading the greens for putting. We explore the Aimpoint system, developed by Mark Sweeney, which helps golfers accurately predict the path of their ball using tools

(00:01) Golf Rules and Fair Play This chapter kicks off with some lighthearted banter about Derby week in Louisville, Kentucky, and the coincidental horse names, Journalist and Publisher, which spark a humorous betting anecdote. Shifting gears to golf, we explore the complexities and often misunderstood nature of golf rules, especially those pertaining to the PGA Tour and the FedEx Playoffs. We question the fairness of giving the top 10 players a stroke advantage and ponder a potential rule change that would start all players at zero, likening it to NCAA tournament seedings. Finally, we address the confusion many amateurs face in distinguishing between one-stroke and two-stroke penalties, acknowledging the challenge of fully understanding golf's intricate rulebook. (11:07) Navigating Water Hazards in Golf This chapter takes a closer look at the differences between red and yellow penalty areas on a golf course, often referred to as hazards. We explore the nuances of each, including how they impact dropping opt

(00:01) Golf Tees and Playing Tips This chapter takes you into the vibrant world of golf and its unique intersections with events like the Kentucky Derby Festival. I share insights into a special hole-in-one contest tied to the festival, where hitting the perfect shot could eventually lead to a million-dollar prize, although it's a rare feat to achieve. Anecdotes of friends, including a 72-year-old who managed to hit a hole-in-one, highlight the unexpected joys and challenges of the game. We also explore the idea of what tees golfers should use, emphasizing the importance of playing from a position that allows for an enjoyable game without unnecessary strain. Stories from a Facebook group for senior golfers illustrate how people adapt their approach to the sport, even taking it up later in life. Through humor and shared experiences, we celebrate the camaraderie and strategy that make golf a beloved pastime for many. (12:10) Golf Fitness Tips for Seniors This chapter takes us into the world of golf, focusing o

(00:00) Masters Golf Tournament Drama and Analysis This chapter brings you an exhilarating discussion about the thrilling conclusion of the Masters, where Rory McIlroy clinched victory. We recount the nerve-wracking moments on the 18th green, highlighting Rory's missed putt in regulation and the pressure-laden five-footer in the playoff. The conversation shifts to praise for Jim Nance, whose silence during the climactic moment allowed the emotion of the scene to resonate. We also reflect on the sportsmanship of Justin Rose, who, despite wanting to win, was mindful of his friendship with Rory and the significance of the occasion. This exploration of the tournament’s high drama captures the essence of golf's emotional rollercoaster and the gentlemanly conduct of its players. (16:18) Golf Swing Improvement Tips This chapter addresses common misconceptions in golf swings, emphasizing the importance of understanding the real issues behind hitting thin shots. We explore how many golfers misdiagnose their swing prob

(00:00) Summer Camp Age Requirement Disagreement This chapter explores a lively discussion about the challenges of managing junior golf programs and the intricacies of communication with parents. I recount a humorous yet frustrating experience with a parent eager to enroll his children in our summer camps. The parent attempts to bend the age rules for his younger, golf-enthusiastic child, who doesn't meet the minimum age requirement. Despite the father's persistence, I maintain the camp's policy, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established guidelines for the benefit of all participants. Additionally, I touch on the amusing mix-up of daylight savings time, which led to some unexpected schedule confusion. Overall, the conversation highlights the balance between accommodating individual requests and maintaining program integrity. (03:33) Golfers Discuss Adding Loft to Shots This chapter begins with a humorous anecdote involving Don Rickles and a New York mobster, illustrating the unpredictable twists o

(00:01) Importance of Consistency in Golf Improvement This chapter explores the challenges of maintaining consistency in golf performance, especially when students fail to practice what they learn during lessons. I, John Ashton, along with Golf Magazine Top 100 teacher Jeff Smith, discuss the common issue where students see immediate improvement in lessons but fail to sustain it due to a lack of discipline in practicing outside of class. Jeff shares a story about a student who experienced significant improvement during lessons but regressed because he didn't incorporate the taught techniques into his routine. We emphasize the importance of doing the necessary homework and ask students to engage with their coaches actively to develop effective practice habits. Jeff highlights the need for students to take notes, ask questions, and consistently apply what they learn to avoid repeating the same lessons. Ultimately, the key to consistent improvement lies in integrating the learned skills into a regular practice r