The Cart Barn Podcast

Joy Green shares what it was like working inside a startup television network before it became The Golf Channel—and the unexpected moments that surrounded the early days of Tiger Woods.Joy Green takes us inside a moment in golf history that most people never saw—the early days of The Golf Channel before it became what it is today.From walking into a completely unstructured startup environment to witnessing the habits of a young Tiger Woods before the world knew his name, Joy’s story gives a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how both a network and a legend were taking shape at the same time.This conversation isn’t about polished success—it’s about uncertainty, figuring things out in real time, and being close enough to something special before anyone realized what it would become.If you’ve ever wondered what it actually looked like behind the curtain in those early days, this episode delivers.golf podcast, golf channel history, tiger woods early career, golf stories, behind the scenes golf, sports media, golf industry, cart barn podcast

In this episode of The Cart Barn, Chris Lemley and Gregg Dewalt sit down with Mike Beverly, President and CEO of Sunbelt Golf Corporation, the company that operates the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.Mike shares the inside story behind one of the most ambitious golf development projects ever created. With 26 championship courses across Alabama, the Trail attracts golfers from all 50 states and more than a dozen countries each year.They discuss the vision of Dr. David Bronner, how the Trail continues to grow, the operational challenges of managing hundreds of holes of championship golf, and why the RTJ Golf Trail remains one of the greatest values in golf travel today.The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is widely considered one of the most unique golf destinations in the world. Built across the state of Alabama, the Trail features 26 championship golf courses at 11 different sites, drawing golfers from across the United States and around the world.In this episode of The Cart Barn, Chris Lemley and Gregg Dewalt sit down with Mike Beverly, President and CEO of Sunbelt Golf Corporation and the 2025 PGA Professional of the Year for the Dixie Section.Mike has spent nearly two decades helping guide the Trail’s growth and operations. Today, the Trail plays hundreds of thousands of rounds each year and continues to expand its influence in golf tourism.During the conversation, Mike discusses:• The original vision behind the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail • How the Trail transformed golf tourism in Alabama • Managing more than a thousand employees across multiple golf sites • Renovating and maintaining championship golf courses at scale • The impact of the Trail on Alabama’s economy and tourism • Why the Trail continues to be one of the best values in golf travel • The future of golf and continued growth of the TrailIf you love golf architecture, golf travel, or the stories behind great golf destinations, this episode provides a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of the most successful golf projects ever created.Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail RTJ Golf Trail Alabama golf golf tourism golf travel golf podcast golf courses Alabama golf course architecture Sunbelt Golf Corporation Mike Beverly golf industry golf operations golf destination golf trip planning golf in the south

The Golf Channel was founded in Birmingham, Alabama — and nearly collapsed before it ever became profitable.In this episode, Del Woods, founding CFO of The Golf Channel, shares the inside story of building the first 24-hour golf network, bringing Arnold Palmer into the deal, raising startup capital, and surviving the financial pressure that nearly ended the company.You’ll hear: • How the idea for a 24-hour golf network began • How Arnold Palmer became involved • The capital raise that made it possible • The near-bankruptcy moment in 1996 • What it was like playing Bay Hill during that stretchThis is a golf history episode — and a sports media startup story.Follow the Cart Barn Podcast for more conversations documenting Alabama’s impact on the game of golf.Golf Channel history Arnold Palmer Sports business Golf media Sports television Media startup Birmingham Alabama Golf history Bay Hill

Patton Kizzire opens up about the six-year gap between PGA Tour wins — what went wrong, what changed, and how discipline and mental preparation brought him back.This isn’t just tour life. It’s a conversation about doubt, drift, habits, and rebuilding at the highest level of professional golf.📄 FULL SHOW NOTES Two-time PGA Tour winner Patton Kizzire joins The Cart Barn for a candid conversation about the six-year stretch between victories — and what it really took to win again.After winning twice early in his PGA Tour career, Patton entered a long drought that forced him to confront his preparation, mindset, and discipline. In this episode, he explains:What happens mentally during a winless stretchWhy preparation — not swing changes — became the focusThe habits he rebuilt to regain controlWhat winning in Napa meant after six yearsLife behind the scenes on the PGA TourCompeting against Rickie FowlerGrowing up in Alabama and choosing AuburnIf you care about performance, discipline, and competing at a high level — in golf or anywhere else — this episode delivers real insight.Hosted by Chris Lemley and Gregg Dewalt.Patton Kizzire PGA Tour PGA Tour comeback Golf mental game Professional golf mindset Korn Ferry Tour PGA Tour win drought Golf discipline Tour life Golf podcast00:00 – Cold open: “I wasn’t in control…” 03:10 – Growing up in Alabama 12:45 – Auburn and SEC golf 18:50 – Korn Ferry breakout season 26:00 – First PGA Tour win 33:00 – The six-year drought 41:30 – Mental reset and discipline 48:00 – Life on tour 58:00 – Quick fire

Florida State Head Coach Trey Jones shares his recruiting philosophy, non-negotiables, NIL perspective, and what separates elite players from the rest in today’s college golf landscape.This conversation with Florida State Head Coach Trey Jones was recorded before recent recruiting news surrounding the program.Listening back now, his perspective on culture, recruiting, and player development offers timely insight into what attracts elite talent to Tallahassee.In this episode:• The “non-negotiables” inside the FSU program • What separates elite 18–20 year olds from good players • How NIL is reshaping recruiting • Why inner confidence matters more than rankings • The Brooks Koepka recruiting story • PGA Tour U and the evolving path to the PGA Tour • The facilities arms race in college golfFor over two decades, Trey Jones has built Florida State into one of the most consistent programs in college golf. This episode focuses on the blueprint behind that success.

Gary Williams is one of the most recognizable voices in modern golf media, best known for his long run on Morning Drive and now as the host of Five Clubs on SiriusXM and Golf Channel.In this episode of The Cart Barn, Gary joins Chris Lemley and Gregg Dewalt for a wide-ranging, story-driven conversation that goes far beyond television golf. Gary reflects on his journey into the game, the relationships that shaped his career, and the moments behind the scenes that most fans never see.We talk about:The origin and rise of Morning DriveArnold Palmer, Joe Gibbs, and the early days of Golf ChannelGolf as a participatory game, not just a televised sportFather-son golf memories and why they matterThe philosophy behind Five Clubs and “it’s the time, not the score”Dogs on the course, Sweetens Cove, Landmand, and the future of golf gatheringsThis is a thoughtful, personal conversation about golf, legacy, curiosity, and why the game continues to connect people across generations.

In this episode of The Cart Barn, we sit down with Tom Lovelady, one of the defining figures from Alabama golf’s modern golden era.Growing up in Birmingham, Tom cut his teeth at Vestavia Country Club before becoming a cornerstone of the University of Alabama teams that captured back-to-back NCAA National Championships. From relentless Monday morning workouts to qualifying battles against future PGA Tour stars, Tom shares what truly separated those Alabama teams.He also tells the full story of how he met — and eventually roomed with — Justin Thomas, the brotherhood that defined Alabama golf, and the lessons that carried him from college golf to the PGA Tour.This conversation is about far more than trophies — it’s about accountability, culture, friendship, and the long game of life beyond competitive golf.Key Time-Stamped Segments00:00–05:30 — Birmingham roots, Mountain Brook, Vestavia CC05:30–12:30 — High school championships & junior golf grind12:30–18:30 — Choosing Alabama & early program culture18:30–27:30 — National championships & Prairie Dunes memories27:30–37:30 — Accountability, qualifying, and brotherhood37:30–42:30 — Justin Thomas roommate story (first meeting)42:30–50:30 — Transition to pro golf & PGA Tour realities50:30–59:30 — Barbasol Championship & life-changing moments59:30–1:05:00 — Life after tour golf & perspective today

John Gibbs takes us inside the untold early days of the Golf Channel—from a bold idea to a full-scale network launch. As a founding executive, John shares how the channel came to life, the critical role of Arnold Palmer, near-miss financial moments, and what it took to build a 24/7 golf network from scratch.The conversation also dives into John’s own competitive golf journey—playing in U.S. Senior Opens, Senior Amateurs, and his lifelong passion for the game at Limestone Springs Golf Club. Packed with golf history, wisdom, and classic Arnold Palmer stories, this is a must-listen for golfers and golf fans alike.Episode Highlights:How a lunch conversation turned into the Golf ChannelWhy Arnold Palmer was the key to instant credibilityBuilding studios, hiring 200+ people, and launching in 1995Near-bankruptcy moments and the Comcast dealJohn’s experience playing elite senior amateur golfLessons on longevity, mechanics, and mindset in golfWhy fear—not talent—is golf’s biggest enemyNotable Stories:Arnold Palmer’s “did you come out here to lay up?” momentPlaying practice rounds with Hale IrwinCompeting in U.S. Senior Opens and Senior AmateursLife, golf, and perspective at Limestone Springs

Damon Green joins The Cart Barn to share one of the most fascinating behind-the-scenes journeys in professional golf. From grinding on mini-tours to caddying for legends — including Zach Johnson’s iconic Masters win at Augusta — Damon opens up about pressure, preparation, player-caddie dynamics, and what truly separates those who make it from those who don’t.We dive into:Life on the mini-tours and why so many great players never make itHow game-planning won the 2007 MastersThe mental side of majors vs. regular tour stopsThe truth about caddie-player breakupsWhy the British Open at St. Andrews still means the mostAnd the origin of the famous “Chicken Walk”A must-listen for golfers, fans, and anyone who loves great stories from inside the ropes.

Birmingham native Gordon Sargent joins The Cart Barn Podcast to walk through his journey from junior golf and Mountain Brook High School to Vanderbilt, Augusta National, and now full PGA TOUR status. Gordon shares insights on college golf, NIL, Augusta nerves, elite ball-speed, mentorship, and what life is really like transitioning from a team environment to professional golf.In this episode, Gregg Dewalt and Chris Lemley sit down with Gordon Sargent, one of the most exciting young talents in golf and a proud product of Alabama golf.Topics include:Growing up at Birmingham Country Club and Shoal CreekThe legendary Mountain Brook High School golf teamsChoosing Vanderbilt and navigating elite college golfWinning the NCAA Individual ChampionshipPlaying Augusta National and staying in the Crow’s NestNIL, equipment loyalty, and working with Titleist & NikePGA TOUR University Accelerated and earning full TOUR statusAdjusting to life on TOUR without teammatesElite distance, ball speed, and course managementStaying grounded, giving back, and keeping Birmingham as homeThis is a thoughtful, honest conversation with a player who understands both the grind and the privilege of the journey.🎧 Listen now and subscribe to The Cart Barn Podcast for more stories from the world of golf.

Joe Gibbs is a Birmingham native and the co-founder of the Golf Channel, built alongside Arnold Palmer at a time when a 24-hour golf network seemed impossible.In this episode of The Cart Barn, Joe walks us through the real story behind the Golf Channel — from a friendship formed at Shoal Creek, to high-stakes meetings, investor skepticism, and the long road to profitability.This conversation goes beyond golf media. It’s a story about vision, risk, leadership, and believing in an idea long before anyone else does.Joe Gibbs shares the inside story of how the Golf Channel was created — from its Alabama roots to its global impact — and the leadership lessons learned along the way.

As the year comes to a close, Chris Lemley and Gregg Dewalt share a short New Year’s Eve reflection built around moments from conversations that truly resonated in 2025.This episode isn’t a “best of.” It’s a curated collection of clips that sparked discussion, reflection, and connection — moments about process, perspective, resilience, and the human side of golf.No commentary between clips. Just the conversations themselves.Thank you for being part of The Cart Barn journey. We’ll see you in the new year.

This Christmas Eve episode of The Cart Barn Podcast is a little different.Instead of an interview, Chris Lemley and Gregg Dewalt take time to reflect on the conversations from the past year that truly stayed with them — stories of resilience, reinvention, mentorship, history, and the people behind the scenes who make the game of golf what it is.From powerful discussions with guests like Will Wilcox and Linda Jeffery, to insights from elite teachers such as Mark Blackburn and Wayne Flint, to unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments at the Regions Tradition and East Lake, this episode highlights the human side of golf and the community that surrounds it.This is not a “best of” episode — it’s a thoughtful conversation about what mattered, what surprised us, and why these stories deserve to be remembered.Wherever you’re listening this Christmas Eve — traveling, winding down, or enjoying a quiet moment — thank you for being part of The Cart Barn journey.🎄 Merry Christmas from Chris and Gregg.

PGA Tour Champions Schwab Cup Champion Stewart Cink returns to The Cart Barn for a deep, candid conversation on longevity, focus, and what it really takes to win at the highest level—at any age.Stewart breaks down:Why he publicly declared “winning the Schwab Cup” as a goal—and stuck to itHis distraction accountability system (yes, with money on the line)The 16-ball warm-up routine he uses to eliminate swing thoughts during competitionHow Champions Tour golf compares to the PGA TourPlaying against Tiger Woods—and the shot that still blows his mindEquipment insights, Bermuda grass realities, and wedge managementFamily, faith, and how becoming a grandfather has reshaped his off-weeksThis episode is packed with lessons for golfers, competitors, business leaders, and anyone chasing sustained excellence.🎙️ Hosted by Chris Lemley & Gregg Dewalt ⛳ Recorded for The Cart Barn Podcaststewart cink podcast schwab cup champion pga tour champions interview stewart cink mental game golf focus and distractions 16 ball warm up golf bermuda grass golf tips champions tour vs pga tour the cart barn podcast

Michaela Morard returns to The Cart Barn with a candid breakdown of her first full year as a professional golfer. She shares what she learned competing on both the Epson and Annika Tours, the mental shift required to make cuts, the story behind her 6-under comeback win, and the unexpected food poisoning that derailed Q-School and led to hip surgery. Michaela talks about rebuilding her game, preparing for a 2025 return, and how faith, friendships, and family support carried her through the season.Topics Covered:Adjusting to life as a professional golferHer first professional win — coming from behind with a 6-under final round How cut-line pressure changes your strategyPlaying both the Annika and Epson ToursWhat she learned about preparation, practice rounds, and course managementThe stress of scheduling, travel, and last-minute alternatesHer powerful tee-ball numbers — ranked 7th in driving distance at 264 yards Hip labrum injury, Q-School food poisoning, and immediate surgeryRecovery timeline: putting now, wedge play soon, full swings by springWhy she joined the Annika players boardHow Bible studies, player friendships, and her parents kept her groundedHer goals for the 2025 season and returning as defending champion in AprilListen and follow The Cart Barn for more: stories, players, and the people shaping golf in Alabama.

A remarkable conversation with golf executive Bob Barrett, covering Augusta National, Shoal Creek, the RTJ Trail, Honors Golf, Troon, and more than five decades of inside stories from the people who shaped modern golf.This week, we welcome Bob Barrett, one of the most influential behind-the-scenes operators in modern golf. Bob’s 52-year journey includes Augusta National, Shoal Creek, the Robert Trent Jones Trail, Honors Golf, and his current role with Troon.Inside this episode: • How an Augusta kid became ANGC’s first assistant pro • Playing with Clifford Roberts, Nicklaus, Weiskopf & more • Running merchandising & operations during Masters week • Managing Shoal Creek during major championships • Navigating the 1990 Shoal Creek controversy • Building the RTJ Golf Trail from the ground up • Running the Tiger Woods Skins Game at Rancho La Quinta • Founding Honors Golf and merging into Troon • Industry outlook: simulators, growth of junior & women’s golf, private club boom • Why golf is healthier today than everA true masterclass in golf history, leadership, and club operations.Listen, rate, and subscribe!

Summary In this episode, David Mills shares the rich history and craftsmanship behind TP Mills putters, discussing the evolution of golf putters, the impact of technology, and personal anecdotes from his family's legacy in the golf industry. He emphasizes the importance of quality and innovation in staying relevant in a competitive market while reflecting on his father's dedication to the craft. Takeaways David Mills' father started making putters out of necessity and passion. The craftsmanship involved in making putters is a blend of art and science. TP Mills putters were among the first to introduce a black putter design. David Mills emphasizes the importance of stability in putter design. The evolution of golf putters has been influenced by technological advancements. Personal stories highlight the relationships built through the golf community. David Mills continues to innovate while honoring his father's legacy. Quality craftsmanship is key to staying relevant in the golf industry. David Mills has made putters for notable players like Phil Mickelson. The future of TP Mills involves exploring new ideas and designs. Keywords TP Mills, golf putters, craftsmanship, golf industry, innovation, David Mills, golf history, putter design, golf technology, personal stories Titles The Legacy of TP Mills: A Journey Through Golf History Craftsmanship and Innovation: The Art of Golf Putters Sound bites "He charged players for the putters." "He made a putter for Phil Mickelson." "He had to charge for the clubs." Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to The Cart Barn 02:23 – The Legacy of TP Mills Putters 03:32 – Introducing Guest: David Mills 04:08 – How TP Mills Began 10:37 – Craftsmanship Meets Innovation 15:59 – The Spalding Partnership & OEM Work 21:44 – Notable Players Using TP Mills 29:57 – David’s Journey into the Family Business 31:17 – Why Stability Matters in Putter Design 35:09 – Understanding Zero-Torque Putters 39:28 – The Science of Weight Distribution 42:55 – Honoring Craftsmanship & Legacy 46:15 – How Putter Technology Has Evolved 49:17 – Staying Relevant in a Competitive Market 53:53 – How to Explore TP Mills Putters Today 54:57 – Closing Thoughts 55:00 – EndChapters 00:00 Introduction to the Cart Barn Podcast 02:23 The Legacy of TP Mills Putters 03:32 Teasing the Guest: David Mills 04:08 The Origins of TP Mills Putters 10:37 Craftsmanship and Innovation in Golf 15:59 The Relationship with Spalding and OEM Process 21:44 Notable Players and Their Success with TP Mills 29:57 David Mills: Following in His Father's Footsteps 31:17 The Science of Putter Stability 35:09 Understanding Zero Torque Putters 39:28 The Importance of Weight Distribution 42:55 Craftsmanship and Legacy in Putter Design 46:15 The Evolution of Putter Technology 49:17 Staying Relevant in a Competitive Market 53:53 Introduction to TP Mills Putters 54:57 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes 55:00 Cart Barn.m4a

Episode 65 – Inside the Mind of a World-Class Coach with Mark BlackburnThis week, Chris and Gregg sit down with Mark Blackburn, one of the most respected coaches in modern golf and founder of the Blackburn Golf Academy at Greystone. Mark shares stories from his early mentorship under Alex Sloan, how the Golf Machine shaped his methodology, and what he’s learned from decades of coaching elite players.Whether you're a golf junkie or just love great stories, this episode delivers.KeywordsMark Blackburn, golf coaching, Blackburn Academy, Alabama golf, teaching philosophy, tour players, coaching techniques, golf instruction, family life, coaching teamSummaryIn this episode, Mark Blackburn shares his journey from England to becoming a prominent golf coach in Alabama. He discusses his teaching philosophy, the importance of communication in coaching, and the challenges of working with tour players. Mark also highlights the significance of family support in his career and the development of his coaching team at the Blackburn Academy.TakeawaysMark Blackburn emphasizes the importance of adapting coaching styles to individual players.He believes in a holistic approach to coaching that considers both technical skills and mental resilience.Mark's journey from England to Alabama showcases his passion for golf and teaching.He values the role of family support in achieving professional success.Mark's coaching philosophy is centered around helping players find their unique swing.He has built a strong coaching team at the Blackburn Academy to support various skill levels.Mark's experiences with tour players highlight the unique challenges they face in their careers.He stresses the importance of communication and understanding in the coaching process.Mark's dedication to continuous learning and improvement is evident in his approach to coaching.He believes that success in golf is a combination of hard work, strategy, and adaptability. TitlesThe Journey of Mark Blackburn: From England to AlabamaCoaching Philosophy: The Art of Golf InstructionSound bites"I'm very proud to be from Alabama.""I love an underdog. I love a challenge.""I try and treat them all like my kids."Chapters00:00 Celebrating Stuart Sink's Victory02:09 Insights from Coach Mark Blackburn

Brad Nelson’s lifelong love for golf took him from the fairways of Florence Country Club to the grounds crew at East Lake Golf Club during the PGA Tour Championship. In this episode, Chris and Gregg sit down with Brad to hear how his passion for turf, hard work, and a simple email turned into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. He shares stories from inside the ropes — raking bunkers for Rory, early-morning grind, and the culture that makes East Lake one of golf’s most respected venues.📜 Transistor Show Notes (Full Description)Brad Nelson grew up around the game of golf in Florence, Alabama — from junior days at Florence Country Club to becoming a self-taught lawn care pro. But when he sent an email to East Lake Golf Club ahead of the Tour Championship, he never imagined it would lead to a life-changing week on the course where legends compete.In this episode:Brad’s early golf days in Florence and his love for turf managementHow persistence and passion got him a spot on East Lake’s agronomy teamThe behind-the-scenes detail of preparing for the PGA Tour ChampionshipWhat he learned about bunkers, greens, and perfection at the game’s highest levelWhy the East Lake culture stands out — and how it inspired him back home🎙️ Hosted by Chris Lemley & Gregg Dewalt 📍 Recorded in Alabama — celebrating the people, places, and stories that make golf special here.

Golf historian John Morton reveals his latest auction win — a Douglas McEwen long-nose putter crafted in the 1870s by one of Scotland’s most legendary club-making families. He explains why left-handed clubs from that era are nearly extinct and what makes this find so special.In this short from The Cart Barn Podcast, golf historian and collector John Morton shares the story behind his newest find — a 150-year-old Douglas McEwen long-nose putter from the 1870s.The McEwen family, based in Musselburgh, Scotland, represents one of golf’s most historic lineages. Five generations of McEwens handcrafted clubs from the 1700s through the early 1900s, shaping how the modern game began. John’s latest acquisition, a rare left-handed McEwen putter, adds another piece to his carefully curated collection of antique golf equipment.He explains how uncommon left-handed clubs were in the 19th century, how craftsmanship and artistry defined golf equipment before mass production, and why preserving these tools matters for the game’s history.If you love golf history, collecting memorabilia, or simply hearing stories that connect today’s game with its roots in Scotland, this episode is a must-listen.🎧 The Cart Barn Podcast — exploring the stories, people, and places that make golf great.🔍 SEO Keywords / Tagsgolf history, antique golf clubs, Douglas McEwen, McEwen family, Musselburgh golf, long nose putter, 1870s golf, Scottish golf history, left-handed golf clubs, golf collectibles, golf memorabilia, golf craftsmanship, historic golf equipment, The Cart Barn Podcast