Golf And Politics

The first-ever Golf & Politics Cup is in the books — and it didn’t disappoint. In this episode, co-hosts and team captains Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth look back on an unforgettable week at Gray Bull Golf Club in Nebraska. From the electric opening matches to the all-important head-to-head battle between the captains, this recap dives into the drama, the camaraderie, and the big takeaways from the inaugural bipartisan showdown. Along the way, Matt and Rob share behind-the-scenes stories, reflect on what made this Cup special, and talk about the future of golf as both a game and a bridge-builder in politics. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered: • Full recap of the first-ever Golf & Politics Cup • The story of the captains’ singles match: Matt Parker vs. Rob Ellsworth • Team highlights, key moments, and clutch performances • Lessons learned on trust, leadership, and competition • Reflections on golf as common ground between politics and community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode, co-hosts Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth host their very first roundtable discussion at the first-ever Golf & Politics Cup from Gray Bull Golf Club in Nebraska. Joined by friends, teammates, and guests from both sides of the aisle, they recap the practice round, share personal golf stories, and dig into how the game connects to community, politics, and even personal growth. This conversation encompasses everything from golf as an economic driver to the LIV vs. PGA debate, the future of course design, and why golf remains one of the best ways to foster genuine trust in politics. It’s equal parts golf nerd talk, bipartisan banter, and heartfelt reflection on the friendships and values that make this game so special. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered: • The launch of the first-ever Golf & Politics Cup • Golf as a driver of jobs, community, and rural economies • LIV vs. PGA vs. YouTube Golf: where is the pro game headed? • The role of municipal & public courses in growing the game • Family traditions, youth golf, and lessons learned on the course • Why golf is the perfect setting for bipartisan trust-building • The future of golf course design, costs, and accessibility Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special on-course episode of Golf & Politics, co-host Matthew Parker tees it up with his Republican teammate Judge Matthew George for a complete 9 Holes, 9 Questions at GrayBull Golf Club during the G&P Cup. As the two play through all nine holes, the conversation moves from law and public service to faith, family, and golf, blending competitive energy with thoughtful reflection. Judge George opens up about his journey to the bench, lessons learned from politics and life, and the way golf reveals character both on and off the course. It’s part competition, part storytelling, and the perfect snapshot of why the G&P Cup is more than just a golf match — it’s about people, perspectives, and the power of relationships. 🔑 Highlights: • Judge George’s path from attorney to the bench • Insights on leadership, faith, and public service • Favorite golf courses played and dream destinations • The role of golf in building trust and friendships • Team chemistry and strategy heading into the G&P Cup • Plenty of laughs, banter, and on-course competition Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special on-course episode of Golf & Politics, co-host Rob Ellsworth hosts his first-ever “9 Holes, 9 Questions” interview with long-time friend and fellow Blue Wave teammate Jamie Gillespie, live from GrayBull Golf Club in Nebraska during the G&P Cup. Jamie—Democratic lobbyist, Fox executive, and golf nut—brings sharp wit and serious wisdom to a conversation that covers everything from growing up in DC politics to bucket-list golf courses, the power of golf in building real relationships, and the biggest cultural changes on Capitol Hill over the past two decades. They talk architecture, the importance of institutional knowledge in Congress, and how Jamie uses his career and platform to support cancer research and advocacy. This episode is a mix of heartfelt storytelling, elite golf talk, and sharp political insight, all wrapped into a laid-back round with a good friend. Topics Covered: Sand Hills Golf Club, Cypress Point, and Jamie’s top-5 course lists Growing up around politics in DC & working for legendary senators Why golf is the best tool for networking and political relationship-building Reflections on cancer survivorship and giving back to the Bladder Cancer Association The changing culture of Capitol Hill and why staff pay matters Jamie’s dream foursome Blue Wave team chemistry heading into the G&P Cup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this on-course episode of Golf and Politics, Matt Parker tees it up with Brian Bingman, Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner and longtime public servant, for a 9 Holes, 9 Questions round at The Oaks Country Club. From campaign trail stories and leadership lessons to reflections on the oil & gas industry, regulatory transparency, and the shift in Oklahoma politics over the last 30 years, Commissioner Bingman shares wisdom with humility. We also hear about his favorite golf destinations, his bucket-list rounds, the time Tom Coburn helped save his political career, and which vote he wishes he could take back. In this episode: What the Corporation Commission actually does Transparency in government How Oklahoma flipped from Democrat-dominant to solid red during Bingman's career The reality of intra-party conflict and why today’s Senate is harder to manage Golf in politics: relationship-building and the power of the game Bucket list stories from Cypress Point, Bandon Dunes, and Augusta National A vote he regrets—and how it still haunts him on the campaign trail His dream foursome with a politician, pro golfer, and celebrity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special G&P Cup preview, we turn the spotlight on the Republican team. Host Matt Parker introduces his squad of conservative golfers heading into the inaugural Golf & Politics Cup in Nebraska. From seasoned politicos to Republican office holders, each teammate shares their background, golf game status, and what they’re most excited about for the bipartisan showdown. Co-host Rob Ellsworth faces a Shotgun 9 of tough, funny, and politically-charged questions from the Republican side — from transgender athletes and Title IX to Trump loyalty, immigration policy, the national debt, and more. Despite the barbs, this episode is full of camaraderie, spirited debate, and respect across the aisle — all united by the love of golf. Topics include: Full introductions of the Republican team The case for strokes vs. no strokes in match play A deep debate over transgender athletes and fairness in women’s sports National debt, government overreach, and bipartisan failures Golf trips, gamesmanship, and trash talk ahead of the G&P Cup This episode highlights strong opinions, stronger friendships, and a shared belief that golf can build bridges. Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get to know the Democratic side of the first annual Golf & Politics Cup in this exclusive preview episode! It’s the Democratic Team reveal for the first-ever Golf & Politics Cup! Rob is joined by his seven handpicked teammates — a crew of gritty competitors and longtime golf buddies — as they gear up for an epic match play showdown in Nebraska against Matt’s Republican Team. There’s deep dives into the personalities, golf resumes, and political perspectives of Team Blue. Then things get rowdy when Republican host Matt Parker faces the heat in a “Shotgun 9” political grilling. With serious match play competition on the horizon and camaraderie at the center, this episode is part scouting report, part roast, and fully packed with the camaraderie and chaos that make Golf & Politics what it is: united by golf, divided by politics. In this episode: Rob Ellsworth introduces each of his seven Democratic teammates heading into the first Golf & Politics Cup in Nebraska. From Division I athletes to Capitol Hill veterans, each guest shares their connection to their captain Rob, and what they are looking forward to at the G&P Cup. The team breaks down their strategy, chemistry, and expectations for competition at GrayBull Golf Club. Republican host Matt Parker takes fire in a rapid-fire political Q&A, drinking game style—covering Trump, January 6th, taxes, Iran, and more. Despite sharp political differences, the episode emphasizes friendship, respect, and the unifying power of golf. Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Part 2 of the Parker Improvement Project, Matt gets into the highs and lows of chasing golf improvement—offering a transparent look into his quest to break through from a 4-handicap to scratch and how the mental and emotional side of the game often matters more than mechanics. With help from coach Maggie Roller, and friends like Casey Lang and Nick Kirsch, Matt revisits his on-course failures, strategic adjustments, and personal breakthroughs heading into his club championship and the Golf & Politics Cup. From swing struggles and on-course meltdowns to powerful lessons in humility, gratitude, and perspective, this episode delivers both golf instruction and personal growth. 🧠 In This Episode: The mental meltdown that led to a break from golf Learning from an 18-hole playing lesson with pro Maggie Roller Why driver yips are killing his scores—and how he's tackling them The importance of pre-shot routines and “changing the channel” mentally Using Decade Golf strategy to improve course management Short game struggles and bunker practice  How spiritual health and emotional maturity affect golf performance Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes:https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of Golf and Politics, Matt and Rob unveil the first annual Golf and Politics Cup (G&P Cup)—their Ryder Cup-style showdown set for August at GrayBull Club in Nebraska, a new top-ranked course. They reveal their full eight-man teams, including vice captains Nick Kirsch and Casey Lang, and share insider scouting reports, from scratch players to fiery grinders ready for match play pressure. The hosts break down the event format, from best ball to alternate shot to singles matches, and debate strategy, handicaps, and team uniforms. Along the way, they drop hilarious stories about their teammates, talk trash about who will choke under pressure, and explain why the G&P Cup isn’t just about golf—but about building friendships across political lines. Key Topics Covered: Full team rosters for Team Matt (Republicans) and Team Rob (Democrats) GrayBull Club: Nebraska’s newest world-class golf destination Ryder Cup-style format: best ball, alternate shot, singles Trash talk and match predictions for Matt & Casey vs. Rob & Nick Golf and Politics mission: bridging divides through golf Stories from Steubenville to Streamsong, plus the importance of paying it forward in golf How this event will fuel future Golf & Politics content and grow the community Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special on-course episode of Golf and Politics, Matt is joined by PJ, Alex, and Fritz Wenzel of Ring Digital for Nine Holes, Nine Questions during the Nightbirde Foundation Charity Outing at Virtues Golf Club. From humble beginnings in journalism and law to building a successful family-run digital firm serving top political and corporate clients, the Wenzels share their journey, lessons learned, and plenty of laughs along the fairways. They discuss golf’s role in family bonding and business networking, the secrets to building a business that thrives, and their takes on Trump’s agenda, congressional dysfunction, AI in politics, and the next big shifts coming to campaigns and advertising. How golf became the Wenzel family’s shared passion and business tool The ups and downs of working with family (and why radical humility is key) Their journey from journalism and law to entrepreneurship and political strategy Secrets to business success: niche, value, reinvestment, and transparency Using golf to build lasting client relationships and grow influence Dream golf courses and trips they’d choose forever Political predictions: Will Republicans pass Trump’s agenda? Can they hold Congress? Hot takes on AI’s role in future campaigns and the death of traditional journalism In This Episode: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Golf and Politics, Rob and Matt reunite to unpack a whirlwind few weeks of golf—both as players and fans. From LIV Golf at Rob’s home course, RTJ, to a bucket-list golf adventure across Scotland, and a reflective look at their own game stats and progress in 2025, this episode blends insight, laughter, and some seriously enviable travel stories. Rob shares candid impressions of LIV Golf in person, including surprises about the vibe, music, course setup, and how it compares to the PGA Tour. Then, he takes us on a deep dive into nine world-class courses across Scotland, including Royal Troon, Ardfin Estate, North Berwick, and more—breaking down what makes each experience unforgettable. In This Episode: LIV Golf at RTJ: the vibe  and the reality vs. expectation What made Ardfin Estate one of the most beautiful (and exclusive) courses Rob’s ever played Playing Royal Troon, home of the Postage Stamp and Open Championship history Rob’s full review of Sunningdale, North Berwick, Renaissance Club, and more A mid-year update: rounds played, states and countries visited, handicap trends, and personal reflections Strategy talk: the path to scratch golf, dealing with driving penalties, and minimizing “blow-up” holes The golf community’s power to pay it forward—plus stories of generosity from Scotland and St. Andrews Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Part 2 of our conversation with Mike Blackham, Golf and Politics dives deep into Mike’s recent golf adventure through England’s elite courses, from his beloved Sunningdale to iconic tracks like Royal St. George's, St. George's Hill, and St. Enodoc. Mike and Rob break down why England’s diverse golf scene—featuring both heathland and links courses—might just be the most underrated golf destination on the planet. They discuss the difference between England, Scotland, and Ireland trips, share crazy travel stories (including Rob’s 27 hours solo in an English rental car), and explain why London’s heathland golf offers Pine Valley-level quality without the usual American price tag. The episode also touches on Japanese golf culture, B-side hidden gem courses, and includes a rapid-fire "10-round split" segment comparing some of the greatest golf courses in the U.S., UK, Japan, and beyond. Mike closes with his dream foursome—featuring Mitt Romney, Steph Curry, and Tiger Woods—and offers insight into the kind of leadership he believes America needs. In This Episode: Recapping 8 days of nonstop golf across England’s top courses Why Heathland golf rivals Pine Valley for architecture and pure fun The difference between A-side vs. B-side courses (and why the B-sides often surprise) Tips for planning an affordable golf trip to England that beats Bandon and Pebble How UK golf culture differs from the U.S. in access, conditioning & cost Personal favorites: Sunningdale Old & New, St. George’s Hill, Royal St. George’s, and more Secret planning tips for Americans building their first UK golf itinerary Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Golf and Politics welcomes Mike Blackham — world traveler, elite golfer, and one of the few people on Earth closing in on completing the World Top 100 golf course list. Mike shares his journey picking up golf in his late 20s and what he's learned about golf culture, club access, and course architecture along the way. From Augusta and Pine Valley to international B-side hidden gems, we dive into the passion (and sacrifice) behind the world top 100 golf quest. The conversation then shifts gears into a wide-ranging and honest debate on the current state of U.S. politics, college sports NIL reforms, the growing national debt crisis, tariffs under Trump 2.0, and whether Congress will ever step up to solve America's fiscal challenges. Key Topics Covered: Mike’s pursuit of completing the World Top 100 Golf Courses list The best courses & golf architecture debates: Pine Valley, National Golf Links, Myopia Hunt, Sand Hills Golf culture differences between the U.S., UK, and Asia The impact of NIL on college golf and how it’s reshaping recruiting Deep-dive political debate: national debt, tariffs, Trump’s economic policies, and Congress’s dysfunction The bipartisan frustration with leadership & common sense reform Why leadership is vanishing from both parties as political extremes dominate Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPoliticsJoin the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this wide-ranging episode of Golf and Politics, Rob sits down with Tony Russo—a top Washington lobbyist, former collegiate golf standout, and the undisputed No. 1 golfer in American politics. From playing alongside Michael Jordan, Jack Nicklaus, and Greg Norman, to his early days on Capitol Hill working for Senator Joe Biden, Tony shares unforgettable stories from a life that’s crossed paths with legends in both golf and politics. Tony opens up about his personal journey—surviving leukemia in law school, leaving pro golf behind, and finding purpose through family, faith, and bipartisan friendships. They also discuss the LIV Golf vs. PGA Tour divide, the future of course design, the golf ball rollback, and how the game still brings people together in a divided D.C. Key Topics Covered: Playing college golf with Steve Stricker and caddying for Jack Nicklaus How golf shaped bipartisan relationships on Capitol Hill Inside scoop on LIV Golf Virginia and course setup at RTJ Tony’s thoughts on the rollback debate and golf architecture trends Why more golf in politics could solve real-world gridlock Bonus: Dream foursomes, Augusta vs. St. Andrews, and MJ’s short game Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Golf and Politics, co-host Rob Ellsworth sits down with Scott Furlong, longtime superintendent of the iconic Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, to talk turf, tournaments, and the truth behind maintaining a world-class course. Recorded on the eve of LIV Golf Virginia, Scott shares what it takes to host back-to-back global events like the Solheim Cup and LIV Golf, and how weather, politics, and even immigration policy affect the game from the ground up. With over 25 years at RTJ, Scott blends stories of mentorship, grit, and perfectionism with a behind-the-scenes look at how agronomy is evolving in the face of rising expectations and economic pressure. Key Topics Covered: LIV Golf Virginia: course setup, green speed, and player readiness RTJ’s role in hosting world-class tournaments like the Solheim Cup and LIV Building a career in turf: mentorship, immigration policy, and labor challenges How Kyle Phillips’ design vision has shaped RTJ’s evolution The “Augusta Effect” and its impact on member expectations Tariffs, supply chain issues, and the rising costs of course maintenance Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Golf and Politics, Matt sits down with Mitch Marczewski, founder of the Nightbirde Foundation, to explore how charity golf tournaments are a force for good—and a model for effective fundraising. Inspired by the legacy of his sister Jane “Nightbirde”, a breakout star from America’s Got Talent, Mitch shares the emotional journey of turning tragedy into tangible hope for women battling breast cancer. They break down what it really takes to host a profitable charity golf outing, from securing sponsorships to managing logistics at top-tier courses like The Virtues Golf Club. Whether you’re a political candidate planning a fundraiser or a nonprofit looking to grow your donor base, this episode delivers practical insights on creating events that raise serious money and lasting impact. Key Topics Covered: The story behind the Nightbirde Foundation and Jane’s inspiring legacy How to structure a successful charity golf tournament Using golf outings as top-of-funnel donor engagement tools Tips on securing silent auction items, golf course partners, and sponsors Why consistency, storytelling, and community matter in fundraising success Visit nightbirdefoundation.org to support their mission. Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Golf and Politics, Matt breaks down Scottie Scheffler’s dominant win at the PGA Championship and what it means for his trajectory toward golf greatness. Is Scheffler the next to complete the career Grand Slam? Matt makes the case. He also takes on critics of LIV players, defending Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau from what he calls lazy media narratives. Plus: a deep dive into the Parker Improvement Project—Matt’s personal mission to reach scratch by year’s end. He shares his stats, setbacks, practice plan, and lessons learned from battling inconsistency off the tee. On the politics side, Matt previews potential future debates with co-host Rob, teases hot-button topics like Trump’s tariff strategy, the Qatari jet, and the Biden health cover-up, and introduces the official launch of the Marty Russo Political Golfer of the Year Award. Key Topics Covered: Scottie Scheffler’s PGA dominance & rising place in golf history The flawed “LIV guys can’t win majors” argument Parker Improvement Project: distance, discipline & driver woes Political topics heating up: tax cuts, Biden’s health, Trump controversies Launching the Marty Russo Political Golfer of the Year Award Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our 50th episode of Golf and Politics, we celebrate the milestone with tech entrepreneur and longtime friend of the show Jake Ward. From his time on Capitol Hill to founding multiple companies and trade associations, Jake brings a rare mix of policy savvy, startup hustle, and serious golf chops. We dive into Jake’s golf life—his game, his favorite courses, and the rise of club culture in places like Daniel Island and Bandon Dunes—before shifting into a wide-ranging conversation on technology in golf, the future of AI, and how data privacy and digital policy affect everything from PGA broadcasts to political messaging. Key Topics: How AI and digital tools are transforming golf and small business Jake’s top underrated golf courses and caddie culture A heated debate on Trump’s trade policies, immigration, and the state of conservatism The future of golf broadcasts and technology’s role in pace of play Jake’s journey from Senate staffer to startup founder and what’s next in tech and policy 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts—and thank you for helping us hit 50 episodes! Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Golf and Politics is back with 9 Holes, 9 Questions as co-host Rob Ellsworth joins Matt Parker on the Par 3 course at LaFortune Park in Tulsa. Rob opens up about his lifelong love of golf, his bond with his late father, his battle with stage 4 cancer, and his journey from Republican Hill staffer to Democratic lobbyist. As Matt and Rob trade shots and stories, they dive into the personal, the political, and the power of saying “yes” to life’s second chances. You’ll also hear Rob’s thoughts on the changing landscape of American politics, municipal golf’s role in community development, and what it means to live life with gratitude after hardship. Key Topics: Rob’s origin story in golf and politics Lessons from losing a father and surviving cancer The importance of municipal golf courses and public investment in the game Why Rob believes cancer made him better, not bitter A rare inside look at how politics has changed—and where it's going next 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t miss Rob’s dream foursome at the end! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Golf and Politics, Rob and Matt are at Tour Quality Golf in Tulsa, joined by returning guest Jefferson Thomas, founder of The Synapse Group and a seasoned political strategist with a passion for golf. Jefferson opens up about his early days in Missouri politics, working with high-profile campaigns and initiatives across the country, and how golf has become a vital part of his professional and personal life. The episode dives into the changing landscape of field campaigns, how targeted canvassing works today, and the rising cost of political signature gathering—especially in light of proposed changes to Oklahoma's ballot initiative laws. Then, things heat up as the crew dives into a spirited political debate on the Trump 2.0 administration’s trade policies, the impact of tariffs, immigration strategy, and whether the U.S. is heading toward free trade—or economic isolation. Key Topics: Jefferson’s journey through GOP campaigns, college football, and entrepreneurship The real work behind canvassing, petition gathering, and modern campaign ground games A lively debate on Trump’s tariffs, immigration policies, and trade strategy Reflections on American values, free speech, and social division 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t forget to subscribe for more golf-fueled political discourse! Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfandPolitics Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices