Golf And Politics

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

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