next on the tee

Making his Next on the Tee debut is David Eby, Director of Golf at Banyan Golf Club in Palm Beach, Florida, where he’s been leading the charge for nearly 30 years. David’s journey through the game is a great story of passion, hard work, and lifelong dedication to golf. He played his college golf at Augusta University (then Augusta College) from 1986–1989, earning a degree in Economics and helping the team capture multiple tournament titles, including the 1987 Big South Conference Championship. During those years, he also had the unique opportunity to caddie at Augusta National, looping for several notable people like Don Shula, Peter Ueberroth, and Jack Welch. He even got to play the course himself—a dream few golfers ever realize. After college, David began his professional career as an Assistant Golf Pro at Augusta National, followed by a move to Pine Valley as First Assistant Pro, then becoming Head Golf Professional at Cedar Point Club in Virginia. Before long, he found his home at Banyan Golf Club, where he’s built one of the finest golf environments in South Florida. In our conversation, David reflects on his experiences at legendary venues like Moraine Country Club (site of Byron Nelson’s 1945 PGA win), shares great stories from his college days—including a Joe Namath like experience while playing a tournament at Furman. He then offers insights on how technology has reshaped the game. We also discuss Banyan’s world-class facilities, designed by Joe Lee, and how their state-of-the-art practice area rivals even Augusta National’s. David’s stories span from Augusta to Palm Beach, filled with heart, history, and lessons that remind us why we love this game.

Welcome back to Next on the Tee, where golf legends live and your game gets better. This week’s lineup is one that’s sure to knock your socks off. Leading things off is the man I consider to be the greatest golf writer of this or any generation, Ron Sirak. Ron joined me recently, and I couldn’t wait to bring him back. This time, he breaks down what we saw—and heard—at the Ryder Cup. Ron shares his thoughts on Europe’s decision to “run it back” with Luke Donald, and we could see this same team until the U.S. proves it can beat them. We also discuss whether it’s time for the US team to look outside of golf for its next captain—someone who’s more motivator than a buddy. And since Ron’s a proud Western Pennsylvania native, we couldn’t resist mixing in a little Steelers talk too. Then, Top 100 Instructor Jeff Smith makes his fourth appearance on the show. Jeff, one of the most sought-after coaches in the game, is currently based at The Vintage Club in Indian Wells, California. We cover his thoughts on the Ryder Cup, joke about a Sam Wyche–style reminder that European fans might need in 2027 (“You don’t live in New York!”), and dive into Jeff’s insights on the mental side of golf—how to stop overthinking and why failure often teaches what success cannot. Be sure to come back for Part 2 when David Eby makes his Next on the Tee debut. David played his college golf at Augusta University—known then as Augusta College—where he and his teammates helped build the foundation for the program that would later win back-to-back national championships with the likes of Patrick Reed. While in college, David also caddied at Augusta National, where he looped for some of sports' biggest names and even got to tee it up there himself. After stints as an Assistant Pro in Ohio and Virginia, David has spent nearly three decades at Banyan Golf Club in Palm Beach, Florida, and he brings with him a treasure trove of stories you won’t want to miss. So settle in and enjoy another great week of golf talk, laughs, and great tips here on Next on the Tee.

Making his Next on the Tee debut is comedian, author, and former Facebook executive Paul Ollinger. Paul is the host of The Reasonably Happy Podcast and the author of Reasonably Happy: Essays on Money, Work, and Other Things That Piss Me Off. Before turning to stand-up comedy and writing, Paul served as VP of Sales at Facebook, leading one of the most successful teams in the tech world. In our conversation, Paul shares the story behind his unlikely journey—from corporate boardrooms with Mark Zuckerberg to comedy clubs where the only bottom line is laughter. He talks about the moment he decided to leave the corporate grind for the stage, the lessons he’s learned from both worlds, and what “reasonable happiness” really means. We discuss how much financial stability you need before chasing a dream, why fear and money often hold people back, and how to take that first step toward a more fulfilling life. Paul also shares insights from his book, including why Denmark consistently ranks as one of the world’s happiest countries, what our pandemic obsession with toilet paper says about us, and the humor behind a chapter titled Nightmare on the Back Nine. And yes—he even confesses how his golf index jumped after buying a Jailbird putter. It’s a fun, thoughtful, and inspiring conversation with a man who’s lived life on both sides of success—and learned that happiness isn’t about what you earn, but what you love doing.

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two outstanding guests who bring incredible insight from different corners of the golf world. First, LPGA Class A Professional and Top 50 Instructor Debbie O’Connell returns to share her passion for helping players strengthen both their game and their mindset. Debbie is the founder of Golf Positive and the author of Golf Positive…Live Positive: Lessons in Golf and Life. She’s been recognized with multiple LPGA honors, including the inaugural Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award, and continues to inspire golfers everywhere through her teaching, writing, and her “Conquer Your Golf Mind” program. Debbie joins me to talk about her latest projects, the importance of mental preparation, and practical tips for getting your mind prepared to play your best, plus some stretches to get your body ready to play, and how to keep from embedding negative thoughts into your brain. Then, I welcome award-winning journalist and author Hank Gola for his Next on the Tee debut. Over his career, Hank has covered golf, football, and soccer for the New York Post and the Daily News, earning multiple awards from the Golf Writers Association of America, as well as the prestigious Lincoln Werden Award for golf journalism. He’s also authored several acclaimed books, including Ryder Cup Rivals: The Fiercest Battles for Golf’s Holy Grail. Hank and I dive deep into Ryder Cup history starting in 1927, the money Walter Hagan brought into the game, the 1991 War By The Shore, and the incredible US comeback at The Country Club in 1999. It’s a fantastic mix of instruction, inspiration, and history with two people whose impact on the game runs deep. Be sure to come back for Part 2 featuring my conversation with Comedian and the Host of the Reasonably Happy Podcast, Paul Ollinger.

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I welcome back one of my all-time favorite guests, 1978 PGA Champion John Mahaffey, making his 10th appearance on the show. John and I revisit his special connection to Oakmont, the site of his major championship win, and he shares how the course has evolved since his 1978 PGA Championship victory there. I also get his perspective on JJ Spaun’s U.S. Open victory before shifting gears to the Ryder Cup. John takes us inside his experience on the victorious 1979 team, recalling what it was like being paired with Lee Elder and Hale Irwin, facing Brian Barnes in singles, and handling the pressure of that opening tee shot on Friday. We finish up with a couple of wonderful Ben Hogan stories that you won’t want to miss, plus how he was able to successfully transition careers from play to broadcasting. I round out the episode with another very special friend of the show, Dr. Russell Levenson. Russ radiates positivity and spirituality, something that shines through every time he speaks. Last time, we talked about his book Witness to Dignity and his friendship with President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush. Now, Russ shares insights from his upcoming book, Witness to Belief: Conversations on Faith & Meaning, which features powerful conversations with 12 extraordinary individuals, including Condoleezza Rice, Denzel Washington, Amy Grant, Jane Goodall, and Dr. Francis Collins. His warmth, wisdom, and storytelling will leave you feeling uplifted and filled with positive vibes.

In this episode of Next on the Tee, we kick things off with Brian Klocek, Director of Golf at Totteridge, a course that golfers across Western Pennsylvania know and love. Brian shares the journey of his career, starting with his college days at the Golf Academy of America in Myrtle Beach, to South Hills Country Club just outside downtown Pittsburgh, and now leading operations at Totteridge in Greensburg—the hometown of recent guest Rocco Mediate. We also talk about Totteridge’s 13th hole, which KDKA TV recently highlighted as one of their “Elite 18” in Western Pennsylvania, along with Brian’s take on other favorite courses around the region. The focus on Totteridge continues in segment two with my guest, the legendary course designer Rees Jones. Rees is one of the most influential architects in the game, with an unmatched résumé that includes seven U.S. Open sites, eight PGA Championship courses, five Ryder Cup venues—including Bethpage Black—plus Walker Cup and Presidents Cup courses. Rees takes us inside his redesign work at Bethpage Black and the incredible job he and Bill Bergin did at The McLemore on Lookout Mountain, a world-class golf destination that features one of the best finishing holes in the game. Now their newest course, The Keep, is earning rave reviews and, in Rees’ opinion, has the potential to host a major championship one day. We also highlight a few of my other favorite Rees Jones designs, including The Country Club in Boston, Oyster Reef on Hilton Head, Southbridge in Savannah, and Falcons Fire in Orlando. This episode is a celebration of great golf design and storytelling, featuring one of Pittsburgh’s finest in Brian Klocek and one of the true legends of the game in Rees Jones.

Back with me this week is a true class act and a member of our Thursday Night Tailgate Guest Hall of Fame—Sirius/XM NFL Radio and NHL Radio host, Zig Fracassi. Zig’s reputation as one of the finest interviewers in the business is well earned, and I’ve long said it’s a mystery how he doesn’t already have millions of followers on social media. His insights into both football and hockey are second to none, and his character is even better. In this segment, Zig and I dive into the state of the Pittsburgh Penguins, where Sidney Crosby continues to shine but Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang are showing their age. We discuss whether it’s finally time to break up the Penguins’ big three and the impact of Erik Karlsson’s contract. From there, we turn to Buffalo and the rise of Tage Thompson, before looking ahead to the Winter Olympics—can the U.S. finally get past Canada, and who else could contend for gold? Then we shift gears to the NFL, where Aaron Rodgers made headlines by signing with the Steelers and silenced some doubters with his Week 1 performance against his former team. Zig also weighs in on the Dallas Cowboys and shocks me to announcing they are no longer his favorite team. We unpack Jerry Jones’ surprising decision to move on from Micah Parsons, one of the best defensive players in the game. If you're not already following Zig on X @zigsportsvoice, do it because you're missing out on great insights and a very special human being.

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two of the game’s top instructors, each bringing their own brand of expertise, innovation, and insight to help us all play better and enjoy the game more. First, PGA Master Professional John Hughes returns for his 6th appearance. As a Master Professional, John is in the top 1.5% of all PGA Professionals. He's also a Top 25 Instructor with Golf Tips Magazine, and the 2023 North Florida PGA Section Teacher of the Year. He shares a preview of his soon-to-be-released book, Instant Golf Improvement: The 6 Pillars to Golf Success, which offers a realistic path to better golf without overhauling your swing. John also gives us valuable tips on target acquisition, proper driver stance, handling uneven lies, improving launch angle and spin rates, sharpening our chipping technique, and eliminating costly three-putts. Then, my gumba Rob Strano stops by. Rob is one of the most creative teachers in the game, the former host of The Golf Kingdom TV show, and his new Golf Academy is now open in Destin, Florida. Rob shares his candid thoughts on how to truly fix the FedEx Cup format, if the PGA Tour needs a playoff system at all, and what he’s most looking forward to about the Ryder Cup. Rob gives us a look at the innovative tools and training available at his new academy. It’s an episode packed with playing lessons, fresh ideas, and insights from two of the best minds in golf instruction.

On this bonus segment of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by 2x Super Bowl Champion Trai Essex. A third-round pick out of Northwestern, Trai spent most of his NFL career with the Steelers, helping them to three Super Bowl appearances and two championships. Now you can hear his insights alongside Charlie Batch on their show The Snap Count. We dive deep into the current state of the Steelers—offensive line struggles, whether it’s youth or poor technique holding them back, and why the run game has failed to click despite significant draft and free-agent investments. Trai breaks down the differences he experienced under line coaches Russ Grimm, Larry Zierlein, and Sean Kugler, and what it really takes to command respect in the trenches. We also discuss defensive lapses, Mike Tomlin’s leadership, and why red-zone play calling isn’t maximizing the talent of 6’8” tight end “Mount Washington.” Since this is a golf show, we talk about Trai’s love for the game, his round at Chicopee Woods in Georgia, when he first picked up the sport, and some of his favorite golf memories. Trai shares both his football and golf perspectives with the same candid insight that makes him a great follow on Twitter @TraiDay79 and a must-listen on The Snap Count.

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two outstanding storytellers who bring both creativity and history to the game. First, my good friend Tucker Booth returns to the show. Tucker is a professional entertainer, writer, rapper, and host of the podcast Rappers Don’t Golf. As an author, he’s collaborated on powerful projects, including Trouble Maker with Lisa Cromwell and most recently The Final Broadcast, co-written with Michael Whelan. That book, already earning five-star reviews on Amazon, is a deeply emotional, semi-biographical story that explores resilience, friendship, and the impact of cancer. Tucker and I talk about the process of blending his voice with Mike’s, why they chose a fictionalized narrative, the powerful imagery behind the book’s most moving scenes, and what they hope readers will take away. Then, I welcome Len Ferman for his Next on the Tee debut. Known as The Sports Time Traveler from his popular podcast, Len is also the author of Great Golf Tournaments Volume 1 and The 1973 Mets: You Gotta Believe. A lifelong researcher and storyteller, he shares fascinating golf history—from Jack Nicklaus’ brilliance at the 1975 Masters, to Joe Louis breaking barriers as the first African American to play in a PGA Tour event, to Sam Snead competing at the highest level well into his 60s. We also revisit stories about Chi Chi Rodriguez, Dave Stockton, the Big 3 of Nicklaus, Palmer, and Player, and even a time Len discovered a very important error in the New York Times about a score that Johnny Miller shot. It’s an episode filled with passion, perspective, and powerful storytelling—one that connects the emotion of today with the history that shaped the game.

On this bonus edition of Next on the Tee, I’m thrilled to be joined by two outstanding guests who are making a major impact on the game. First up is legendary instructor Jim McLean, one of the most decorated teachers in golf history and a 2025 inductee into the PGA of America Hall of Fame. Jim reflects on the honor, his extraordinary playing career that included being one of the rare players to ever play in the U.S. Junior AM, U.S. Amateur, U.S. Open, and U.S. Senior Open. He was a part of the UH team that won the 1970 Natty. As an Instructor, he was an early adopter of technology like video analysis and TrackMan. We talk about all of that plus his student James Nicholas, who impressed at this year’s U.S. Open at Oakmont by shooting an opening round 69. Jim also shares lessons from his archives, the debate around “swinging left,” and what he’s most looking forward to at the Ryder Cup at Bethpage. Then I catch up with my favorite college golf coach, Robert Morris Head Men’s Golf Coach Steve Shingledecker. Steve has transformed the Colonials into a rising contender. We revisit their best-ever Horizon League finish, the confidence it created, and standout play from Chuck Tragresser, who earned his first win at the Western PA Spring Stroke Play and finished runner-up at the WPGA Open. Steve updates us on the hard work the rest of the team’s roster has put in that will have them contending this season for tournament titles and individual medalist honors. We break down their fall and spring schedule, plus Steve shares how the energy started by the RMU basketball team's run in the NCAA tournament is fueling excitement around the golf program. Two great conversations this week filled with stories, lessons, and inspiration for players and fans alike.

In Part 2 of Season 12, Episode 39, I’m joined by Matt Cahill, the man chosen by the legendary Bob Ford himself to succeed him as Head PGA Professional at Seminole Golf Club. When Ford retired, his short list for the role had just one name—and Club President Jimmy Dunne agreed. Matt shares his perspective on what it’s like working for two icons of the game and answers the fun question: who’s tougher to impress—Bob Ford or Jimmy Dunne? Beyond being a world-class professional, Matt is also a terrific player. He takes us back to his junior days competing in the Junior Team Championship, the U.S. Junior Amateur, the U.S. Amateur, and even teeing it up at the PGA Championship a couple of years ago at Oak Hill. You’ll hear some of his favorite memories from those events, the incredible fields he competed against, plus what it was like working at Shoal Creek, Oakmont, Shinnecock Hills as part of the team that hosted the 2018 U.S. Open, and now at Seminole. Matt is so much fun. He is a great player, but he's an even better person. It comes shining through during our conversation. I know you're going to love that and him.

On Part 1 of this episode of Next on the Tee, we’re turning up the heat as we look ahead to one of the greatest events in all of sports—the Ryder Cup. With the Captains’ picks announced, the big question is: Did Keegan Bradley get it right? Or did he fall into the “old boys club” trap he once criticized? I dig deep into the picks, including whether Keegan should’ve made himself the first playing captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963, and how Bethpage Black might—or might not—be set up to favor the U.S. Team. Our Resident Director of Instruction, Tom Patri, shares why he thinks course setup won’t matter, plus we break down the unique challenges of Patrick Cantlay’s hat size and the no-win nature of Ryder Cup captaincy. From there, we pivot to the FedEx Cup and the so-called “season-long” chase before welcoming back Dr. Bob Winters. This month, Doc delivers the mental keys to overcoming doubt—whether you’re chasing your club championship, trying to break a scoring milestone, or facing that one hole you can’t seem to conquer. His mantra: Process over Prizes. Be sure to come back for Part 2, I welcome Matt Cahill, the man handpicked by Bob Ford to succeed him as Head PGA Professional at Seminole Golf Club. Matt talks about the opportunity to work for both Ford and Jimmy Dunne, his impressive playing career from junior championships to US Amateur Championship, to the PGA Championship at Oak Hill, and his experiences helping Shinnecock Hills host the 2018 U.S. Open.

In this special bonus edition of Next on the Tee, we’re mixing things up. My good friend Tom Patri kicks things off as we dive into some of the hottest topics in golf right now. We cover USGA President Fred Perpall doubling down on the golf ball rollback—regardless of the PGA Tour’s stance—and debate what it means for the future of the game. We talk about the big-name players who missed out on this year’s Tour Championship, the sponsor exemptions that helped Rickie Fowler get in, Tommy Fleetwood’s quest to break through, and JJ Spaun’s eyebrow-raising quote. Then we’re joined by Metropolitan PGA Section legend and Sirius/XM PGA Tour Radio’s On Course co-host, Frank Darby. With decades of experience setting up courses like Bethpage Black for major tournaments, leading in the Met Section, and coaching Keegan Bradley during his St. John’s days, Frank offers unmatched insight alongside Tom—who also cut his teeth in the Met Section and has played the course numerous times. Together, we break down Bethpage Black, Ryder Cup implications, and what might be going through Keegan’s mind. It’s an insider’s look at two legends’ home turf, and you won’t want to miss it.

In Part 2 of Season 12, Episode 37, I’m joined by two guests who bring both heart and innovation to the game. First up, legendary Tour caddie Kip Henley returns to share stories from a lifetime inside the ropes. Beyond his work with stars like Vijay Singh, Brian Gay, Stewart Cink, and Boo Weekly, Kip has an incredible playing résumé of his own — winning nearly every major title in Tennessee golf, earning Player of the Year honors five times, and a place in his hometown Hall of Fame. We look back at some of his biggest wins, the tournaments he’s helped capture as a caddie, and even a few “what-if” moments from bags he left behind. Then, Aaron Waltz, VP of Sales at Uneekor, steps in to talk about the meteoric rise of in-home golf simulators. We discuss how Uneekor’s cutting-edge tech delivers a realistic, affordable, and family-friendly way to enjoy the game year-round — whether you’re introducing juniors to golf, competing with buddies across the globe, or transforming your simulator into a home theater for movie night. Two great conversations, one unforgettable episode — thank you for pressing play and coming along for the ride.

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m blessed to be joined by four wonderful friends from different corners of the golf world. In part 1, we start with a true legend of the game — Bruce Devlin. One of Australia’s all-time greats, Bruce won the 1959 Australian Amateur, enjoyed a stellar career during golf’s golden age, and later became an acclaimed broadcaster and course designer. We start out talking about his battles at Oakmont in the 1962, '73, and '83 US Opens. We then hear about his victory at the 1972 Houston Open. From there, we transition to his memories of leading the 1982 U.S. Open through 36 holes, competing against Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus at Pebble Beach, and sealing a dramatic victory at the 1983 New Zealand Open by birdying the 72nd hole. We also talk about his outstanding run in the broadcast booth during the ’80s and ’90s — and the surprising fact that aspiring broadcasters have never sought his advice, which blew me away. Next, I’m joined by the incomparable Ron Sirak, whose writing forever changed golf journalism. I simply don't understand how he's not in the World Golf Hall of Fame for his many contributions to the game over the years. A proud fellow Yinzer, Ron has been honored with the PGA of America’s Lifetime Achievement Award and lauded by the Associated Press for elevating their coverage of the game. We revisit Oakmont’s storied place in U.S. Open history, reflect on his Western Pennsylvania roots, and hear about the resilience of the community as the steel mills closed. Ron also shines a light on one of the greatest — yet least celebrated — female amateurs in golf history. His storytelling is as powerful as his reporting, and I think you’ll enjoy every moment.

Thank you for coming back for Part 2 of Episode 36 featuring my conversation with Briston Peterson, founder of On Point Golf. Briston takes us through the science behind how his 3D ball marker is changing the way golfers see the line—and sink more putts. With Jim Furyk, Charley Hull, and Top Instructor Nick Bradley already trusting it in competition, Briston reveals what makes it so successful and why it might just be the secret weapon to help you make more putts, cut a few strokes off your score, and get over the hump to breaking 80, 90, or 100. Want to try one free? Reach out to me on social media, @ctmascaro, and while my supply lasts, I'll send you one.

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by three great friends who each bring their own expertise and perspective to the game. First up, our Director of Instruction, Tom Patri, is fired up about the importance of basic human decency in player/coach relationships. We discuss how parting ways can be a natural part of the game, but it should always be done with class—especially when a coach has gone above and beyond to help a player in tough times. That leads us into a candid conversation about the player/caddie dynamic, including Collin Morikawa’s rapid caddie changes this season and when instead players need to take a hard look in the mirror. Next, The Confidence Doctor Dr. Bob Winters, joins me to continue that discussion and share insights on one of his students, Rianne Malixi, who recently had an impressive run at the U.S. Women’s Amateur. As always, Doc leaves us with wisdom to remember, including this pearl of wisdom, it's hard to keep hungry when the refrigerator is always full, and the meaning behind his PLAY acronym. Please come back for Part 2, when I’m joined by Briston Peterson, founder of On Point Golf, to talk about his innovative 3D ball marker that’s making waves on the Champions and LPGA Tours. Even Jim Furyk and Charley Hull have embraced it. Briston explains the science behind why it helps you make more putts, and I share how you can get one in your hands while my supply lasts.

In Part 2 of Season 12, Episode 35, former Steelers, Panthers, and Jets standout Dwight Stone makes his long-overdue return to the show. Dwight takes us inside his years in Pittsburgh, sharing what it was like to play under both Chuck Noll and Bill Cowher and how their leadership styles differed. He reflects on training camps in Latrobe, his relationships with teammates like Eric Green and Greg Lloyd, and one of his career highlights — an 89-yard touchdown catch in the 1991 season opener against the Chargers. Dwight also talks about facing the Steelers later in his career as a member of the Jets, and how it felt to line up against his former team. Off the field, he’s making an impact through his celebrity golf tournament, which benefits Tools For School and the Chase Your Marvelous Dream Foundation.

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m thrilled to share two remarkable guests whose stories, insights, and passion for what they do will inspire you on and off the course. I start with one of my all-time favorite women in golf, Eva Rogers, a Class A Teaching Professional at the iconic Medinah Country Club. Known for hosting some of golf’s greatest championships, Medinah is also home to Eva’s award-winning junior program. She shares her unique approach to identifying weaknesses in her students’ games, the damaging impact of parental pressure, and why letting kids enjoy the game is key to their growth. Eva has been recognized by Golf Digest as one of the Best Young Teachers in America, and you’ll quickly see why. Next, I welcome back long-time friend and former NFL wide receiver Don Beebe, now the Head Coach at Aurora University. Don, a natural motivator shaped by his faith and his years under Coach Marv Levy, talks about the upcoming film Run to Glory based on his life, plus breaking news he shares first with us. We revisit his favorite rounds at Medinah and other local courses, and we look ahead to his Aurora Spartans’ promising 2025 season following last year’s playoff run. Don is fantastic. If you enjoy his segment half as much as I did, we've really got something in store for you.