Golf And Politics

In this episode of Golf & Politics, Matt and Rob sit down with Sean O’Brien — former congressional chief of staff, Obama campaign operative, Pentagon speechwriter, and former speechwriter for Joe Biden. Sean shares what it was really like working in Rahm Emanuel’s office during the 2006 wave, running a rebellious Blue Dog-style congressional operation, writing speeches aboard Air Force Two, and serving at the Pentagon under both Democratic and Republican administrations. The conversation digs into: Whether 2026 is shaping up to be a wave year The strength (and limits) of Donald Trump’s influence in GOP primaries Candidate quality vs. national mood in midterms Redistricting, the Latino vote, and the hidden battlegrounds Early 2028 Democratic possibilities, including Mark Kelly and Mitch Landrieu It’s candid, and it’s a rare behind-the-scenes look at how campaigns and power actually work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we start with one of the wildest comeback stories in modern sports. Anthony Kim — after disappearing for a decade, battling addiction, injury, and mental health — shoots 63 in Australia and beats Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau. For a guy who didn’t even own clubs for 10 years, it was electric. Not just a golf story — a life story. We also break down: Scottie Scheffler’s absurd consistency and why he’s not flashy… just relentless. Pebble Beach looking incredible — and the bigger question of whether modern equipment is making historic courses obsolete. LIV drawing 115,000 fans in Australia and what that means for the future of pro golf. And whether the PGA Championship is quietly losing relevance. Then we pivot to presidential golf history. From Woodrow Wilson playing 1,000 rounds, to Eisenhower practically living at Augusta National… to JFK’s talent, LBJ using golf to pass legislation, Nixon quitting for optics, Clinton rebuilding the White House putting green, Obama’s smack talk, and Trump’s serious game. Golf has always been a great tool fr connecting with others. If you love the game beyond just the leaderboard, this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Golf and Politics, we sit down with Cori Kramer, longtime Washington insider and President of Center Forward, to talk about something increasingly rare in American politics: building trust across divides. Cori shares her journey from Capitol Hill staffer to leading one of DC’s most influential bipartisan organizations, where she’s spent the last 15 years convening lawmakers, chiefs of staff, and policy leaders from both parties—often off the record and far from the cameras. Why? Because governing without trust doesn’t work. We dig into: How primary elections, fundraising, and social media are warping incentives in Congress What Center Forward’s voter behavior study reveals about compromise, values, and civil discourse Why most Americans actually live in the center—but don’t show up for primaries How personal relationships (and yes, golf) can break down political walls The real human cost of politics, friendship, and showing up for people during life’s hardest moments Plus, Kori opens up about her path to DC, mentors who shaped her career, lessons on leadership and listening, and even her growing connection to the game of golf—including a Ryder Cup experience and a young golfer in the family. This is a thoughtful, honest conversation about politics as a process, not just an outcome—and why disagreement doesn’t have to mean division. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does golf teach us about winning elections? In this episode of Golf & Politics, we play nine holes at Split Rail Golf Club outside Fort Worth with Drew Ryan, founder of Campaign Sidekick, to break down what actually wins campaigns: discipline, ground game, calculated risk, and authenticity. As the Texas wind kicks up, Drew shares lessons from building Campaign Sidekick from scratch, working on high-profile races like Ron DeSantis (2018) and Brian Kemp, and why most candidates still misunderstand voter contact. We cover: Why the ground game still decides elections The biggest mistakes candidates are making right now How Trump reshaped the GOP — and what comes next Entrepreneurship, faith, and taking smart risks Advice for young people who want a career in politics Plus: clutch putts, tough lies, and a momentum-changing eagle. If you care about campaign strategy, conservative politics, entrepreneurship, or golf, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Matt sits down with Ross MacDonald, owner of Tour Quality Golf in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to talk about what smart practice really looks like and how everyday golfers can improve by utilizing Trackman. Ross breaks down how TrackMan technology, monthly combines, and data-driven feedback help golfers identify exactly where they’re losing strokes—from wedge play and gapping issues to course management and mindset. We also dive into why focusing on the next shot matters more than dwelling on the last one, and how structured practice can save golfers time, money, and frustration in the long run. Whether you’re new to TrackMan or looking for a more efficient way to practice and improve, this conversation offers practical insights you can apply immediately. 📍 Location: Tour Quality Golf – Tulsa, OK 🏌️ Topics Covered: TrackMan Combine explained How to practice with purpose Identifying weaknesses in your game Wedge play, gapping, and consistency Mindset and course management Why data beats guesswork in golf improvementIf you’re serious about lowering your scores and practicing smarter—not harder—this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Golf & Politics, Colton Craig joins Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth for a deep conversation on golf course architecture, strategic design, and how great courses shape the way the game is played. The discussion centers on why timeless golf architecture prioritizes decision-making over raw power, how course design influences risk-reward choices, and what distinguishes truly great golf courses from those that rely solely on length or conditioning. Craig shares his perspective on playing and studying well-designed courses, as well as competitive experiences, and how architecture exposes strengths and weaknesses in a golfer’s game. They also dive into the National Links Trust debate, using it as a real-world case study in public golf, access, and how decisions about preservation play a big role in the game’s future.  The episode explores how thoughtful golf course design mirrors life — forcing players to manage mistakes, adapt to conditions, and think their way around a course rather than simply reacting. From classic architectural principles to modern design trends, this conversation is for golfers who care about why courses are designed the way they are. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered: Golf course architecture and strategic design principles Why great courses reward thinking golfers Risk-reward decisions in course design Timeless architecture vs. modern trends The National Links Trust debate and public golf stewardship Competitive golf lessons shaped by design How architecture enhances the golf experience Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this New Year episode of Golf & Politics, Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth sit down to map out what a great golf year actually looks like — from realistic travel planning to chasing bucket-list courses without turning golf into a job. The conversation covers how to plan golf trips around work, family, and seasons, why over-planning can ruin the joy of the game, and how some of the world’s greatest courses fit into a long-term strategy rather than a rushed checklist. Rob shares insight from playing hundreds of courses worldwide, while Matt breaks down how election years, travel, and club commitments shape his golf calendar. From Oklahoma and Midwest gems, to Ireland, Scotland, Australia, and iconic venues like Augusta National, Oakmont, and St. Andrews, this episode is about playing great golf intentionally — not just playing more golf. The episode closes with a deep dive into bucket-list courses, golf architecture, and how both hosts balance demanding careers while still finding time to play at the highest level. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered: • How to plan a golf year without burnout • Choosing quality rounds over quantity • Seasonal strategy for international golf travel • Bucket-list courses in the U.S. and abroad • Midwest, Oklahoma, and municipal golf gems • Ireland & Scotland trip planning • Augusta National, Oakmont, and top-tier architecture • Balancing high-level careers with serious golf • Productivity habits that make golf travel possible Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In our annual Christmas episode, we look back on 2025 — on the course, off the course, and everywhere in between. With Christmas right around the corner, we reflect on the best golf courses we played this year, our favorite trips and memories, and what made this season special. We break down our top golf courses of 2025, first-time plays, favorite holes, and unforgettable trips to places like Pine Valley, Oakmont, Shinnecock, Bandon Dunes, England, and beyond. We also discuss the Golf & Politics Cup, the competitive moments that mattered, and how the event continues to grow heading into 2026. To close things out, we share goals for next year, lessons learned, and a few thoughts on what’s ahead — all in the spirit of Christmas, reflection, and gratitude. Thanks for listening all year. Merry Christmas, and we look forward to seeing you in 2026. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered Best golf courses played this year Golf trips, travel, and bucket-list rounds The Golf & Politics Cup recap Year-end golf reflections and lessons learned Goals for next season and plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Golf & Politics, Matt sits down with Stephen Carney, a former professional golfer who competed on PGA Tour Canada and PGA Tour Latin America, before stepping away from the game and rebuilding his life off the course. Stephen opens up about: Starting golf later than most elite players — and catching up fast Junior golf, college golf at the University of Tulsa, and the grind of mini-tours The brutal economics of professional golf The mental toll of Q-School, Monday qualifiers, and razor-thin margins Why great players don’t always “make it” — and what actually separates those who do Walking away from pro golf, becoming a CPA, and regaining amateur status The controversy around former pros playing elite amateur events Mindset, pressure, meritocracy, and life after chasing the dream We also hit a fast-paced Shotgun 9 to close it out — covering politics, taxes, clutch shots, Oklahoma golf courses, and dream foursomes. This is an honest, unfiltered conversation about ambition, sacrifice, failure, and redefining success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Golf & Politics, Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth sit down with Brent Buchanan — president of Cygnal and one of the most accurate pollsters in modern politics — to break down the forces shaping America’s political landscape and the emotional currents driving voters today. Brent takes us inside his new book, America’s Emotional Divide, unpacking why emotions—not logic—steer decisions, how negative ads tap into our survival instincts, and why 2024 became a perfect case study for understanding voter behavior. From the culture-war ad that shifted the race to the collapse of shared truth in the media, to why authenticity now beats ideology — this conversation touches every corner of politics, psychology, and modern campaigning. The guys also dive deep into religion, polarization, fragmented media, cultural identity, and how candidates can actually connect with voters in a world where everyone is living in a different reality. And of course, we bring it back to golf — exploring what political candidates can learn from elite players’ emotional discipline, and hearing Brent’s dream foursome. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered: • Why emotions drive political decisions more than logic • The ad that reshaped the 2024 election — and why it worked • How media fragmentation created “competing realities.” • Disillusioned Republicans vs. anxious Democrats • Why negative ads outperform positive ones (3x!) • How authenticity became the #1 political currency • What Maslow’s hierarchy reveals about modern voters • Parallels between the mental game of golf and campaigning • Brent’s dream foursome featuring a president, a pro, and a comedian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Golf & Politics, Rob Ellsworth and Matt Parker sit down with Simon Holt — CEO of 8AM Travel, co-host of Destination Golf, and steward of Golf Magazine’s Top 100 rankings. From Pine Valley to Royal County Down, Japan to New Zealand, Simon pulls back the curtain on how rankings are created, what truly makes a world-class course, how recency bias affects ballots, why firm-and-fast is dominating trends, and why great golf is as much about people as it is about architecture. We dig into: ⛳️ What defines a great panelist 🏆 The methodology behind the Top 100 🧠 Recency bias and how to avoid it 🌍 Where the next great golf destinations may emerge 🪵 Tree removal, firmness, playability 🎒 Solo vs group golf travel — how to make friends through golf 🇮🇪 Why UK/Ireland golf is in the soul 🥃 Whiskey, tradition, and the ritual of the day 🇺🇸🇬🇧 And yes — golf, culture, and politics on both sides of the Atlantic Simon also reveals some of his top-five golf experiences, tells us what really sets Pine Valley apart, and explains why North Berwick, Muirfield, Tara Iti, Hirono, and Shanqin Bay linger in memory. Whether you chase Top 100s or just love the game, this episode will inspire your next trip, your next tee shot, or the next conversation in the clubhouse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Golf & Politics, Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth flip the script — handing the mic to show producer, Shanbu. In this warm, honest, and often hilarious Thanksgiving special, the guys reflect on gratitude, golf highs and lows, political reality, business challenges, personal growth, and what really matters as another year winds down. Rob and Matt get real about family, faith, failure, injuries, success, bad tee shots, big wins, deep conversations, and the bond that forms when you walk 18 with someone you don’t always agree with. This one hits the heart of what Golf & Politics is all about: friendship, empathy, competition, values — and a shared love of the game. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered: What we’re thankful for personally & professionally  Most meaningful rounds of 2025 — Southern Hills, Shanken Bay, Ardfin & Pikewood What golf has taught us about handling disagreement Why relationships matter more than party lines Goals for next year — on the course and in life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Golf & Politics, Matt and Rob sit down with one of the most fascinating personalities in the game: golf photographer, storyteller, and record-setting adventurer Patrick Koenig, author of The United States of Golf. Patrick shares how he left a conventional career behind to chase a dream—playing over 500 golf courses in a year, criss-crossing America in his RGV (Recreational Golf Vehicle), and capturing the spirit of the sport and the people connected to it. We dive into: ⛳ The day he crossed paths with President Bill Clinton at Sleepy Hollow  🚐 How an RV, a spreadsheet, and a leap of faith changed his life  🏌️‍♂️ The mental grind of 500+ rounds — and one unforgettable shank  💔 The emotional toll of divorce and healing through golf and friendship  🔥 His parents’ loss in the Paradise Fire and the inspiring compassion that followed  📸 The rise of golf influencers and life in the social media arena  😂 Hilarious (and occasionally insane) stories from the road, the range, and the parking lot This episode is packed with laughter, vulnerability, perspective, and love for the game. If you care about golf, humanity, friendship, resilience, and choosing an extraordinary path — this one will stick with you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Veterans Day–recorded episode of Golf and Politics, Matt and Rob welcome back their very first guest — former Congressman Bob Ney — for a brutally honest deep dive into Congress, shutdown politics, fiscal chaos, and the future of American governance. Before the politics, the guys honor the veterans in their lives and share personal stories that set the tone for an episode rooted in gratitude and perspective. Then they get into the big questions:     • Why does the government keep shutting down?     • Does “fiscal responsibility” mean anything anymore?     • Could Congress ever pass a real budget again?     • How have primaries, social media, and Trump reshaped incentives in Washington?     • Is Chuck Schumer stronger or weaker after this shutdown showdown?     • What happens when one party centralizes power — and the other eventually gets it back? Bob Ney brings decades of insider perspective — from the Contract with America to balancing the budget in the 1990s to the Patriot Act fight — and breaks down how Congress lost its power and how it could regain it. If you want a real, unfiltered, behind-the-curtain view of D.C. from people who’ve lived it, this is the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Golf & Politics, Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth break down key takeaways from statewide races across the U.S., including what Democrats’ strong night in Virginia and New Jersey means heading into 2026. They’re joined by Republican pollster John Rogers and Democratic lobbyist Brad Cheney to unpack what happened, why it happened, and what both parties should panic about (or celebrate). 🔑 Highlights: What shifted with Hispanic and younger minority voters Is “Trump fatigue” already affecting Republicans? Did Democrats crack the affordability message? Are candidate quality and authenticity finally mattering again? What redistricting chaos could mean for Congress The future of both parties heading into the next big cycle Plus — insider stories from behind the scenes on campaigns in Virginia, California, New Jersey, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Golf & Politics, Matt and Rob finally return — and they’re breaking down one of the coolest traditions in corporate golf: The Majority Cup (MG Cup). What started as a small outing among friends has grown into a 14–year legacy of competitive golf, meaningful relationships, and major impact. Hosted at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia and Fox Chapel Golf Club in Pittsburgh, the MG Cup brings together clients, friends, and family to raise money for pediatric cancer through Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. This year’s event generated more than $50,000 — and the stories behind the shots, the swag, and the people are what make this outing truly special. Matt and Rob also talk:  🏌️ Charity golf in Austin  🎒 Swag that everyone actually uses  🤝 Relationship building in politics and business  🗳️ Upcoming elections and bipartisanship  🎙️ Guest updates including Marty Russo & friends If you’re thinking about hosting your own corporate or charity golf event — this is the episode to learn from. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Golf & Politics, Matt Parker sits down with Sam Hahn, co-founder and co-CEO of L.A.B. Golf, to unpack one of the most revolutionary stories in modern golf — how a street musician from Eugene, Oregon, turned his passion for tinkering with putters into a company that’s redefining the way players roll the rock. Sam shares the unlikely journey from local music venues to leading one of golf’s most innovative brands — including the moment he almost ran for mayor of Eugene, how a viral Facebook argument helped launch L.A.B. into the spotlight, and what it felt like watching J.J. Spaun’s legendary U.S. Open putt sink with a L.A.B. in hand. The conversation dives into entrepreneurship, perseverance, and putting philosophy — from Phil Mickelson’s golf IQ to why golfers should practice decision-making, not just mechanics. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered: How a failed band tour led to golf’s most creative putter brand Why Sam almost traded golf for politics The early struggles (and lucky breaks) that helped L.A.B. Golf go viral What makes the L.A.B. design so different — and why it works Putting lessons from pros like Phil Mickelson, Lucas Glover, and J.J. Spaun How COVID, social media, and authenticity shaped L.A.B.’s rise The future of putting — beyond just putters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the first episode of our new series Birdies and Big Ideas, we’re at Twin Hills Country Club in Oklahoma City, asking one big question: Why should someone run for state representative? Matt Parker tees it up with Rep. Anthony Moore, Rep. John Kane, and consultant Jackson Lisle to talk campaign life, community service, family sacrifices, and how golf teaches perseverance and leadership. We also teamed up with the Nightbirde Foundation — every net birdie raised money for women fighting breast cancer — so expect some real-talk about public service, and some genuine on-course moments. ⸻ 🧠 Topics Covered: Why people should run for office Balancing life, work, and public service Fundraising for the Nightbirde Foundation Golf course-inspired leadership lessons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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